Chapter 31 – Hard to Concentrate
The sun hadn't even risen beyond the horizon by the time I was out of the den and pacing through the Pridelands. There was no way I would be able to sleep, what with the magnitude of the day. I could feel all the expectations on the day, my own and everyone else's. I hadn't felt a pressure like this before, and it made me nervous. I knew it was what I wanted to do, but that didn't mean I wasn't nervous. This was a commitment to make, and the way I looked at it was that I had to be sure it was what I wanted. No matter how many times I went into this kind of mini panic, I always came out of it the same way; knowing it was what I wanted. I was so happy, so enamoured by Simba. We had been ruling for over a year, and whilst it had its challenges at times, we had gotten closer with each day that passed. Even with those challenges, I knew we were good at it. We invited honesty from others, getting feedback that we could work with and improve ourselves, and for the most part, those efforts meant that others were happier as well. It wasn't the fact we were rulers, but the thought of it becoming official made it seem so much more real. Despite the majority still referring to me as their queen, there was still a feeling of relative anonymity to it because I hadn't been coronated. Simba hadn't been either, but everyone knew of him and he was of royal blood, so he was as close to official as he could be without actually having a coronation.
As I trudged through the early morning hues, I could feel a small lump in my throat; the effect of my nerves growing. Despite this, the gentle feeling against my paws as I stepped over the grass did give me a sense of calm. It was nerves, but not the kind I was scared of. In truth, the nerves were something I expected, and even embraced. I just wasn't the best at showing how I'd embraced them. After taking another few steps, I looked up to the gradual change in hue of the skies, picking my moment to sit and watch as they changed. Something about the constant shift of it all took my mind off the pressures I could feel. My eyes wandered over to the line in the distance of the horizon, though I didn't look straight at it, considering the sun was peeking through. Distracting myself from everything didn't last for long though, because when I looked around, I caught sight of pride rock and felt the familiar pang of nerves, this time hitting lower in my stomach than before. Odd as it was, those nerves brought a smile to my face, watching the sunlight start to hit the magnificent structure. A gentle breeze ran past me, then making itself familiar when a part of that breeze seemed to hover around. This turned out to be what I needed to take those nerves away. A part of me still thought it was silly to feel this way about a breeze, but I'd come to accept there must be something else to it if it kept happening. I closed my eyes and took in a deep breath, feeling all my anxiety wash away as the singular gust continued to circle me, like it was whispering in my ears. If I listened close, it was like their words carried through. I couldn't make out exact words, but I could feel their encouragement. After taking it all in, I opened my eyes up again, watching as I was left by the mysterious gust, some specs being carried in its path. In my head, I muttered a small thank you to it, standing up again to continue my morning stroll.
It wasn't long before I saw some familiar faces, although I didn't expect to see them up at this time either. Just a short distance from me were the two reasons Simba and I were able to survive as well as we did in the jungle. Timon and Pumbaa. The two of them looked sleepy as I approached, getting their attention not long after making my move. "Would it kill ya to let us know you're coming with a few words. Hello Timon. Hello Pumbaa. I'm not sure you carnivores understand what a common greeting is." Although his words didn't sound kind, the growing, tired smile on his face told me the meerkat was just joking around. A moment later, Pumbaa bowed to me, throwing his smaller friend off by accident. Timon landed with a small thud but got up and brushed himself off before looking back at Pumbaa, "For the last time, she has told you we don't have to do that. Yeesh, it's like tryin' to get stink off a warthog." He rolled his eyes before looking back up at me, "Can ya tell him?" He gestured over to his buddy, both of us able to see he was still bowing down.
A small chuckle escaped my lips, and I took a step closer to the warthog, "Pumbaa, you can stop bowing." I couldn't help but continue small bouts of laughter at him, "You two don't need to do all of that around me or Simba. Both of us owe you so much anyway, it just doesn't feel right." I explained, looking to Timon as Pumbaa still didn't rise, "Well, you can't say I didn't try. Pumbaa, my loyal subject, you may rise." I put a paw forwards and stomped it down as I spoke, projecting a little more.
Of course, that was all I needed to do to get him to lift himself up a little more, looking at me with a somewhat playful smile, "Of course, your highness, I will continue to busk in your glory." He beamed with pride, puffing his chest out. His reaction gave me a smirk, knowing what he was pulling.
"Busk? Busk?" Timon burst out with laughter, walking over to smack at one of my forelegs a couple of times whilst he tried to catch his breath. Pumbaa and I exchanged knowing looks whilst the meerkat wasn't looking. "Pumbaa, I don't think it would be a good idea for you to busk anywhere, buddy, let alone for this gal." He patted me again before getting between us again, "Impressive as your baritone is, we don't need to destroy our hearing for it. Volume control, my friend, is not your forte. The word you were looking for is bask. To bask in her glory, which she said we ain't gotta do." He snickered, at last getting enough control over himself to keep his cool. "Now, I believe we have a few questions to ask you." His attention went back to me, and before I knew it the meerkat was sitting on top of me. "It will help all of us if you keep walkin' Pumbaa will probably fall asleep if we stay still." He explained.
The prompt was enough for me to continue, the two of them doing a good job at keeping my mind off the nerves I had been feeling earlier. That was at least until they started questioning me, "So, kid, you're getting a bit scared about today, huh?" Timon asked, rubbing at my shoulders a little.
His question raised my brows, and although I couldn't be sure, it felt like the question raised my blood pressure at least a small amount, "Why would I be scared? Also, isn't it more surprising that I'm up this early? I don't normally take morning walks like this, so you must think that's a little bit strange."
My reasoning did nothing to deter either of them, "Now, Tishala, you don't need to hide anything from us. We're your friends, remember. I think Timon is right on this. It's okay to be scared on a day like this. We'd be scared over a lot less, so it makes sense. It's not embarrassing. It's normal." Pumbaa tried to assure me, stepping closer alongside me whilst Timon edged up to my head.
"My pal with the fragrance issues is right. Ya don't have to worry about tellin' us nothin'. We didn't raise ya to hold back any secrets from us. So come on, open up." Timon leaned in, getting in front of my view if I looked up enough.
I let out a sigh as I rolled my eyes, "I can give you a few examples of how that didn't work." They both shot me quizzical looks, "First off, you didn't know Simba was royalty, because he never told you. Need another example?" They nodded, getting a huff from me, "Fine, another example is when is when you two thought Simba and I wanted to look for grubs with you, so we made up a grub that you could search for, and when he and I 'gave up', we actually said that, so we got some time alone." I smirked.
Timon grabbed my ears and leaned forwards, "You did what? Tishala, I feel betrayed. You're telling me that after an entire day of searching through the Pridelands, the umufugi bug isn't real? Well, that's disappointing, but it does save us having to ask anymore animals if they've seen them." He sighed, "Quit changing the subject though. The fact you've been doing that tell Pumbaa and I that you are scared about today. Now, be a big lioness and talk with us about it. Ya may even feel better about it afterward." He finished, poking at the top of my head a couple of times before resting there again.
There wasn't much choice but to relent to them, "Fine, I'm a little bit nervous. It's not something that needs discussing though. It's not like I'm having second thoughts about it." I defended.
The duo looked at each other and started laughing, forcing a frown onto my face. Timon took note and started speaking, "No need for the frown. We know you're nervous. We know what you're like, and we know what others are like. Getting jitters about it is normal. Just remember that denying that kind of thing to us ain't gonna work. We know all of it." The two of them nodded to each other.
Sighing in defeat, I replied, "Okay, I'll keep that in mind, thank you. I'll be fine though. It's nothing to get worried over, I just needed some space before everything happens, y'know?" I looked to the warthog beside me, and he gave an understanding nod, "Whilst you're here though, I've gotta admit I find it a little strange that you guys are up at this time. You can't be nervus for the same reasons as me, so what woke you guys up early?" I asked, a small amount of concern in my voice.
Both of them snickered, Timon patting me one more time before getting into view again, "You're right, it would be very strange for Pumbaa and I to be waking up at this time. That isn't the case though. The reality of it is that we have been awake all through the night. That's right, we haven't slept a wink, because who needs a sleep schedule! It's not like you need a lot of sleep to remain healthy." He brushed off the very idea of it before continuing, "Why? I hear you ask. Well darlin' the monkey has had me and my pal here working flat out through the night. We have been doing this to help everyone get ready for you and our boy gettin' hitched. Under normal circumstances, we would've said that monkey was going bananas, and there was no way we'd do it. However, we're watching our baby boy and is beau show their love. Now, what kind of parents would we be if we didn't help out for the big day, huh?" He posed the question to me.
Before I knew it, he had hopped across onto Pumbaa, "Remember darlin', the nerves are natural. Ya just gotta push through them." He yawned, prompting Pumbaa to do the same, "Now, if you excuse my porcine friend and I, we will be retreating to get some much-needed rest. We'll be there for the big moment though, don't you worry. There's nothing that would make us miss you becoming missus Simba." The meerkat shot me a little wink before Pumba did the same, the two wandering away. I sat and watched them leave, feeling the heat of the day start to increase as the light grew. The warmth that hit me was pleasant, letting me close my eyes for a few minutes after I stopped watching the duo.
My eyes opened when I heard some steps coming my way from behind. I didn't have time to look before I heard the familiar voice of Sarabi, "We thought we would find you out here somewhere. How are you doing?" She asked, letting me turn around to see that it wasn't only Sarabi, but her friend, Sarafina as well. I let out a sigh, smiling to the two of them, though I could tell they knew how I was feeling. "You're not in the den with Simba, and I'm guessing you're also going to stick with the idea he was telling me about where you two wouldn't see each other until it was time?" My response was to give a rather bashful grin, a meek nod following. "I'll let you in on something, it's not that uncommon, so I wouldn't worry about coming across as a little bit strange. We've always known you were that." She teased as both got beside me, neither holding back from bringing me in for their respective embraces. "Seeing as you're out here, you may as well walk with us until we find a good spot to have a real chat, hm?" I wasn't about to argue with either of them, so I just followed along once the two of them started padding ahead of me. For a moment, I was able to take in just how different this now was. The two of them didn't dwarf me anymore. I was a little smaller overall than Sarabi, but nothing to be of concern over. It didn't feel like long ago they would have offered to carry me. Of course, those days were gone by now. I wasn't the cub in their care anymore, and yet, they were still looking out for me, making it evident in their request to walk and talk with me. Sarabi looked back to me, seeing that I was lost in my own little world. She gave me a few moments more before calling to me, "Tishala?" She then continued as if she read my mind, "We're not going to carry you there." She chuckled before turning around to get moving with Sarafina again. I didn't need much longer to catch up.
The three of us walked in silence, just taking in the peace and quiet that the Pridelands provided at this time. When listening, we could hear distant sounds of other animals starting their days. Looking out, we could even see some of them. If I could have kept that sight in my mind, it would have shown me just how far the Pridelands had recovered. Just the thought of everything returning to how it should be was enough to break my nerves away. The other two lionesses were doing the same as me, just taking in the view. They had witnessed the depressing progression of their home's downfall, so I could only imagine how much it warmed them to see things the way they remembered.
The silence was broken when we started walking again, "It really is amazing to see. I don't think it will ever get old now that we've lived through what we did." Sarafina spoke up, earning agreement from both Sarabi and I. "I'm just amazed to see that we could get everything as good as this in the time we did it in. Sure, 'Rabi and I aren't getting younger, but we still have plenty of time to see all the good that has been done since." She nudged her friend, "Though I know I can't speak for Sarabi all the time. I just think once everything is official, she can enjoy doing very little. Can't expect nothing...that's just not in your nature to do nothing." Sarafina shot Sarabi a smirk, "Simba could have been king all his life and you'd still be doing some of the work for him." I looked between them, getting the feeling that this was a continuation of part of a conversation I hadn't been part of before. The best I could do was give off a somewhat uneasy smile, hoping I wouldn't get dragged into it somehow.
Sarabi though, she didn't flinch, holding her calm smile to the lioness teasing her, "You and I both know you're the same. The number of times I've heard you still giving help to Nala with her hunting, when you know she is more than capable now, and has been one of our leads for a short while now." She chuckled, "I look forward to the days I can relax. I can't wait for you to join me there when you're done trying to tell a skilled huntress how to hunt." The two of them exchanged amused looks at each other before I was brought in, "Besides, I still have a duty as the king's mother. It is up to me to help both my son and the queen on how to rule these lands. I can't leave that to Zazu. He has a busy schedule as is, and they're not cubs anymore." She let out another soft laugh, "Whilst they have been doing a fine job, there's still some things they need to learn, and it wouldn't hurt to have an experienced set of eyes watch over to make sure things are going fine. Outside of ruling, I'm sure there are a lot of questions Tishala will have for me as well." I couldn't help but raise my brow at that.
Before I could follow up with a question though, Sarafina led us to a small outcropping of rocks we could lounge on. Laying down there, I could feel the warmth of the rock, having been heated up by the sun. It was a comfortable warmth for me to stay there for a while. The other two lionesses did the same, though we were all able to face each other, Sarabi on a rock that was a little more raised than where Sarafina and I were. "If you do have any questions, then now is a good time for them. I've been in your exact position, Tishala. I remember the day Mufasa and I joined together. I remember our coronation as well. Any questions you have about either, then I am your go to." She smiled.
"I was there at both of those too." Sarafina feigned a grumble, continuing after, "Sure, they weren't for me, but I still know some stuff too...or else I'm just gonna be here saying nothing." The lioness shrugged, laying her head on her paws, looking up to Sarabi with half a smirk.
The king's mother just looked amused, "I know you were there. I'm sure you can answer anything I can't remember as well as you." The two of them rolled eyes at each other, chuckling, "Anyway, with that sorted, what I was meant to say is that both of us can answer any questions you might have." In truth, I didn't have any specific questions for either of them, but I felt a little silly not to at least ask them something, so I thought up something as quick as I could.
With both of them waiting for me to ask, I flicked my eyes between the two of them, feeling some pressure because of it, "Did it make you nervous?" I asked. It was a basic question, but it worked.
They both knew what I was referring to, "Of course I was nervous. It's such a big commitment. Both roles are lifelong commitments. I can remember the day Mufasa and I were coronated. It felt like it was too soon. I knew we were ready, but it still seemed to come too fast. The moment Mufasa and I became a couple, we had both his parents telling us how to rule the kingdom, how we should manage our time with the different herds, how often I would need to check on the lionesses I would lead. I was taught how to look after all of them in a way that made sure they would be happy. Once we learned these things, I was then told that sometimes I would have to know when to step back. Everything Mufasa and I were told by his parents, they then tried to put us in practice runs of it all. After all of that, we knew we were ready, even before we needed to be. It doesn't matter how ready you know you are though. It is difficult to feel ready when everything is about to happen for real. You and Simba have already been ruling the Pridelands, but I can understand why a coronation can have you feeling nervous. Before today, you've had the luxury of being the lioness who helps. After today, you will be accepted as the queen who helps. The difference in that one word is powerful. Even if you're the same as you were before, others will still treat you different. Just because they will act different though, it doesn't mean anything else has changed. I know that a lot are calling you their queen by now anyway." She paused for a moment, huffing out a little laughter, "To look back on it now, I can understand why I was so nervous, but at the same time I wish I could go back and tell myself that everything will be fine. I'd get right up to myself and tell my younger self that I will be able to adapt to whatever is thrown my way. Nothing will be too much to handle."
Sarafina nodded along, "I think we would all be telling our younger selves that. I can remember seeing you before the coronation, and how nervous you were then. Mufasa pretended he was fine with it all as well, but neither of you were fooling anyone. That's another reason we weren't surprised you'd taken yourself on a little walk. I can imagine for Sarabi it's almost like looking at a reflection."
I couldn't help but smile at the thought of Sarabi looking unsure. It wasn't often I could see her uncertain. In that moment I couldn't recall a point where I had seen her nervous about anything. To me, she always seemed so confident, like she knew what was going to happen, and why it would happen. In my head, for a moment I could picture a younger Sarabi looking a little panicked but trying to hide it. The expression she had seemed familiar and before long, the image in my head shifted until it was an image of me in her place. "It's true. Looking back on it, Mufasa and I thought we were fooling the majority, like we were keeping our cool. In truth, I don't think anyone could keep their feelings neutral about their coronation. As I've said, it is such a big step, and a big commitment for someone to make. I am glad I don't have to go through all those pressures again." She looked to me just as I felt my nerves return, letting them show a little more than I would have liked to admit, "You won't have to cope with them for long. After today, I doubt you'll be feeling any different to how you have when you and Simba have welcomed new herds. It'll all just feel normal to the point where you won't notice it." She explained, looking down to me with a smile. "Now, mine and Mufasa's union was a different kind of feeling of nerves that I had. For one, I knew that the moment it was done, I was a part of the royal family, and so, I was future queen. That's something that I had to prepare myself for, but again, it is a lot easier when it's not in your immediate future. I knew I was ready, but that didn't change that each thing I did that day felt like a massive task to overcome." Her expression got warmer whilst she spoke to me, "And it's okay for it to feel like that." I could see Sarafina nodding in the corner of my eye. The words started to sink in, providing a sense of calm for me, at least for a moment.
"So, whenever you're ready, Sarabi and I thought we would take you to the small place Sarabi waited in before the ceremony started. We'll have to go back to pride rock for it, but then we can help you get ready. I think it might be nice to just stay out here for a while though. Just talk about non-ceremony or coronation things. Maybe you can catch up on some sleep, because I doubt you slept much, given the excitement building amongst everyone including our visitors." The lioness mused, chuckling.
Sarabi joined in the small bout of laughter, "Laying out here in the sun for a little bit would be nice. With things the way they are, it sort of reminds me back when we could laze around, and we'd have cubs running about the place. I miss those days a little bit. I didn't get enough of those days." She sighed with a smile, both older lionesses agreeing with each other.
With a small stretch and yawn, Sarafina answered, "Well, we know that some of the lionesses have announced they're expecting cubs. Having Kifalme lions decide to stay here help that. Then of course, some met your typical mysterious rogue. Sort of funny how often that happens, isn't it? Anyway, that news does mean that it won't be too long before you can hear those little paws charging around again...they just won't be your cub's." She snickered, "Though I'm okay with that. Let the younger ones experience parenthood." Sarafina wasn't holding back, getting a small giggle from me.
I wasn't the only one looking amused by her words, Sarabi giving her friend a look that suggested it was something she'd heard before, "You almost make it sound like you didn't enjoy being a new parent." She winked, the two of them staring for a moment before Sarabi looked to me, "It may not be too much longer before my cub has to take on that role. I'll just get to be there to cuddle and make a fuss of them." She smiled, referring to Simba, and by extension, me.
A small sigh escaped my lips as I matched her expression, "I should have seen this coming. Right, so where are we headed to, then? Where in pride rock?" I had my eyes open wide, still smiling at them.
The look on Sarafina's face had a giddy expression, though I could see she was about to burst out with laughter. It was no secret that any talk of this still made me uncomfortable, "Oh, unclench." She snickered, "We're not going yet." She rolled her eyes at me, "Just humour us, will you?"
I felt my enthusiasm drop as I rested my head down again, my ears falling back. Once they could see I was going to comply, Sarabi was the first to speak, "All I wanted to know really was if you and Simba had talked about it yet. I know you have before, but you've both grown up some more now. Is there a sort of time frame we can expect?" The two of them leaned in a little closer.
"The time frame? About one hundred and ten days." I stated, "That's the usual gestation period." I looked them both in the eyes, my flat tone conveying the type of answer I gave. It wasn't long before I caved though, "Fine, yes, we have talked about it. It will happen at some point, but we haven't planned a set time or anything." I answered.
"How progressive." Sarafina commented, smirking at me.
Sarabi shook her head in amusement at her friend, "Well, whenever you're ready. It will be an exciting time for everyone. A new prince or princess for the kingdom." She couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of me, my eyes pleading for the conversation to end, "Okay, I'll stop. No more of that talk until after everything is done, I promise." She grinned. "Sarafina will not make such promises. For now though, ladies, let's soak up the sun for a little while, hm?" I couldn't have agreed faster, closing my eyes to fight off any additional stress that could build up.
I wasn't sure how long we spent there, but by the time Sarabi was nudging me awake, I could tell a chunk of time had passed. She looked down to me, calm in her eyes, "Come on, let's go."
Those were the only two words that needed to be said. The small amount of fatigue I felt didn't make much sense, considering how well I'd slept, but I shook it off to follow alongside her and Sarafina. It wasn't too much later when we approached pride rock, and as if on cue, Nala and Winda joined us, all of us heading into a smaller cave to the side of our home. I had seen it before, but never found a need to go there, or even ask if anyone else went there. It was pretty clear to me as I walked in, this was the last place I would be before I joined Simba as his queen.
Sitting down, everyone stood around me, doing nothing to help the nerves that were returning to me after a welcome absence, "Just gonna say it now, giving me no room to escape is not the thing to do. I'm not going to run out on this, but I do need some space that isn't taken up by another lion." The anxious smile I shot them prompted them to all stand in front of me, but also in front of the way out...just in case. "Aren't you all supposed to be helping me not freak out? Terrible job so far." I quipped, letting out more somewhat edgy laughs. None of them were phased by this though. Looking at Sarabi, her eyes were telling me to calm down, which got me to slow my breaths enough.
The former queen sat beside me, "We're going to be here with you, help you get ready. Then, when we've done that, we'll all get to our places for the ceremony. That does mean for a little while you will be here by yourself." I could feel my heart start to beat faster at that, and as if she knew, Sarabi responded to it, "However, it's nothing you can't handle. We're going to do this one step at a time, okay?" I looked to her and nodded slowly, though everyone there could see I was still being taken over by the cold feet I was getting. I would never run out on it, but all of a sudden, I could see everything I had been through, and beyond it. I could see before I was even in the Pridelands. The change was so vast that it scared me. How had I managed to adapt to such a situation to find myself in a position like this? "Tishala." I was taken from my trance, looking at Simba's mother, "Are you ready?" She asked.
Before I knew it, the others had me surrounded again, but instead of just standing there, they were helping groom me. My eyes widened and I raised a brow, "Why am I being cleaned? I haven't had someone else clean me for...a long time. Why are they doing something I can do?" I asked.
Again, Sarabi was the one to answer, keeping her composure a lot better than I was, "We're helping you get ready. We know you can do this yourself on a normal day. However," a small smirk formed on her face, "on a day like today, you've already shown you'll need our help. We'll make you look beautiful." She chuckled. Looking to where the others were, I saw each of them smirk at the comment.
"I thought you said I'm always beautiful." I quipped, my tone going dry for the benefit of the delivery.
It was pretty obvious she expected that sort of response, and as the others didn't stop 'helping' me, my argument was going to fall on deaf ears, "Of course you are. We're just going to make sure everything is perfect. You don't even need to worry about anything other than being here, okay? Also," she tittered, "you were always a little slower to start cleaning yourself anyway." My mouth opened for a silent gasp, as if she had just called me out in front of everyone else. Seeing my response, she just sent a little wink my way, and even in my nervy state, she was able to elicit laughter from me. True, the laughter was more in surprise at her comment, but there was a little to do with how it was a little funny. "I went through it too." She shrugged, "So it's not like we're giving you special treatment." The older lioness kept her half-smirk on me, her words keeping my mind off the others.
She had distracted me for long enough that I didn't even notice when it had stopped until Nala, Winda and Sarafina were back in front of me. I looked to them and nodded, "Thank you...for cleaning me when I didn't need the help but okay." My voice trailed off a little, both the younger lionesses snickering amongst each other, whilst Sarafina rolled her eyes. "So, now that's done...I still have to ask what's actually going to happen. Rafiki isn't the easiest to understand, and I've not asked you before, now that I think about it. I kinda know what's going to take place, but all I've heard is 'tradition' this, and 'tradition' that. No one has elaborated to me. Like, I know the sequence of things, but...I don't know, I guess I want to know more than just that. If I'm going to become queen, it might be a little odd if I don't know the traditions I'm about to take part in." I explained, not really sure how to word something like this. I could remember when we first decided the day Simba and I would make everything official, Sarabi had mentioned a few things to me, and it wasn't impossible I'd forgotten.
Sure enough, Simba's mother was more than happy to answer, "You have been told before, at least I've told you most things. It's okay though, I'll go over it again if it keeps you calm." She could see the relief on my face. It was another thing that started to worry me, and yet again, Sarabi came to my rescue, "As good a place to start as any would be that you and Simba are part of something special. A coronation is special of course, as is any loving union between two lions. This is even more special though, because you're doing both on the same day. No doubt right now the animals are starting to arrive at pride rock. Of course, our guests and pride members will be able to see closest, but you'll still be I view of everyone watching. Most of the animals coming though, they're waiting to hear the roar of their new king and queen. The fact the two of you are joining together is a bonus to them. We did have to do things a little different because of this. It won't be long now before Rafiki will show up too. He knows to come here. When he does, he will place on your head, a floral taji."
I stopped her, raising a brow, "Hang on, a taji? Isn't that the name of the king from the Kokosa pride?" I asked. "I can't help but picture a flowery lion being put on my head now...it's an odd image."
Sarabi let her smile grow a little more as she nodded, "Yes, the same name. Taji means crown, which makes sense for your coronation, but actually this is for your union. The taji, as I said, is made of flowers. For you two, because the occasion is for royalty, it is a little different. Regardless, Rafiki will come here to put one on you so that when you walk out of here, you're wearing it. Simba will have an identical one on. Because this is also your coronation, your taji is also your crown, at least in a symbolic way. Now, seeing as you won't get this whilst the ceremony takes place, you'll notice the different colours of the taji. I can remember being told about them as well. You'll see the evergreen symbolises fertility. In a blunt sense, it does refer to you, but it also refers to the relationship you have, not only with your beloved, but also to everyone who knows you. In your case, it also refers to the kingdom. A new outlook for the Pridelands. There are white flowers, symbolising the purity of the relationship. I won't go into the one, because I'm sure you're all old enough to know." All of us looked at each other as if to make sure, no words exchanged on the matter. "The next is orange, representing the passion shared between the two. The red is symbolic of the shared bloodline through union. And quite specific to this occasion, there will be purple flowers to indicate the royal occasion. Once you and Simba are together again, Rafiki will put a larger weave of purple flowers over you both at once. In a union not involving royals, the weave would be made of white flowers. It goes around both of you because that shows how you are being joined through your shared love of each other. Rafiki will say a little something, then the next part is where both of you will be given four 'tastes'. They will be the same. The four tastes given will be spice, to represent the passion in your love. Bitter taste to represent those moments in every life where even those in love can feel turned away by life and bitterness takes over. The sour taste for when disappointment or jealousy can find its way into our lives. Finally, there is sweet, for when life is nothing but a joy and signifies the pure love between the two. I know it's a lot to take in sometimes, but I think you'll find that part at least a little fun. We'll all be watching for your faces when you taste the bitter and sour for sure." She snickered, "Once you've done that, the two of you will declare your love for each other. It is custom at this kind of event for our guests in attendance, as well as our pride members to accept your loving words to each other, by calling out, 'familia yako itafanikiwa', which means 'your family will prosper'. After that, you two will be one. Your roles aren't done yet though. Both of you will get to the edge of pride rock, and then you will both roar, not only signifying the two of you together, but also the official start of your reign. The start of a new era in the Pridelands. Of course, the normal circumstance would have the former ruler roar for the end of their reign as well but given the situation we are in with regards to that, it is something we can forego."
Again, I raised a brow at that last point, "Couldn't you do that though? I'm sure a lot of the animals in the Pridelands will accept that. I don't doubt the lions will as well. Sarabi, you never stopped being queen." I could see there was a small amount of hurt in her eyes when she thought about the time when she was queen without her king. Having calmed down for the moment, I nudged at her, using my head to lift her until our eyes met, "Simba and I would be honoured if you would do this. Not that I've asked him, but why wouldn't he be? If it weren't for you, who knows how much worse thigs could have gotten? I can speak for him in saying that we want you to have that role." I nodded.
For a moment, I could see a softness come to Sarabi's eyes as a lone tear formed, but never fell, "Thank you, Tishala. I will inform Rafiki, and we'll make it happen, if that's what you want." I nodded again, confirming. "Very well. It shouldn't be much longer before our mjuzi arrives. With that, all of us did our best to keep me preoccupied, which for the most part did relax me. I was still a little bit on edge with it all, considering the size of the event. Hearing how it was something everyone in the Pridelands was going to attend didn't do much to calm me, but overall, I felt that I could handle the occasion. There was no reason for me to feel like I couldn't when I had all the support I did. Once again, Sarafina and Sarabi would talk about the times when their children were cubs. Winda talked a little about her life in Kifalme. As she spoke, I could see just how close as friends she and Nala had become. Seeing Nala like that, it reminded me of how she spoke to me once I came back, and how she wasn't sure if we could be friends like we were before. Although we hadn't talked about it again, our friendship had come back, though it was in a different way than before. For a while I was worried she wouldn't like me, but once she and Winda became friends, it re-established our friendship and I hadn't had a worry since. I was happy the two of them were with me in for this moment. At this point, they were like sisters to me. I thought it wild how just looking at both of them there took my thoughts away from what was being prepared outside the shelter we were in.
Sarabi's ears perked for a moment and she looked back to the entrance, "Ah, welcome, Rafiki. She's all ready." The lionesses parted to either side as they let Rafiki come into my view, his usual smile on as if there was nothing significant about the day for him. I did take notice of what he was carrying with him. The fact it was made up of several flowers told me this was the taji I had been told about. "Everyone who isn't Rafiki, Tishala or me, get to your places. Your new queen will see you later." Sarabi ordered in a soft tone. I watched the others leave. Sarabi got to the exit, but waited, her eyes on Rafiki and I. "Rafiki, once you're done, I would like a quick word with you, on Tishala's request."
The mandrill nodded after making brief eye contact with the older lioness, "Of course." His attention went back to me. "Today is de day, eh?" He chuckled, reaching with both hands to place the flowers on my head, adorning me with the taji. He smiled at me, but made no comment, walking past Sarabi.
The older lioness didn't look back, but I could hear the warmth in her words, "I will come and get you when we are ready. It won't be long. Just stay calm and smile...this is a wonderful occasion." With that, both she and Rafiki left me by myself, to sit and have all my thoughts to myself whilst they would talk of the new arrangement with Sarabi joining Simba and I to show the 'changing of the guard' as it were. I couldn't imagine there would be much difficulty in them organising that extra detail. A part of me filled with pride as I thought about the moment itself. I could imagine the warm response from the population of the Pridelands to see Sarabi play her part in the coronation.
I'm not sure how long I sat in there, but almost the entire time, I stayed silent. I tried not to think too much of the magnitude of what I was about to do. When I was younger, I didn't picture this day coming, at least not in the way it had come. The more those thoughts creeped in, the more my mind started to wander. In my head, I could think back to when Sarafina first found me. I remembered how scared I was, but at the same time I could remember that in such a short time, my fear had been removed. I had been taken in by everyone in the pride without any hesitation. There were no questions raised about me that suggested I was a threat or part of a malicious plot. I could never do enough to make up for that, at least in my mind. The next thing I could think of was how I left the Pridelands on a night that I could remember terrified me. The suspense of it all, and then the worry I felt when I travelled over the dunes. I felt hopeless, like there was no point. I was vulnerable, isolated like that. I remember how my salvation came from the great kings above, and with that, I looked up, facing the ceiling for a moment, muttering a few words to the great kings of the past, hoping they would help me at least this one more time. I knew it wasn't a life-or-death situation, but it gave me some comfort to think they might help guide me through it all. Doing this reminded me of how I had adapted to the situation. I didn't spend too long dwelling on what I didn't have any longer and kept moving forwards. I never forgot, of course. My mind wandered ahead to Simba and I arriving in Kifalme. The joy I felt that we were safe, it was overwhelming. I could remember how on our first night, despite some of the troubles I had, that feeling of joy never left. We were safe, and I could have cried with happiness into his shoulder. The shared lessons from Nguvu and Amali. Simba and I had been through all of this together, and as I sat there thinking about it, I could feel myself welling up a little. It wasn't enough for tears to come, and it brought a smile on my face. As nervous as I had been all day, I knew that I could do it. I wasn't going to be alone, so I didn't need to be afraid. All of the worries I had, all the doubts, I had someone who could relate to me. When I thought of it like that, it didn't make the nerves go, but it did make them easier to manage. One more time, I looked up and thanked the great kings of the past for everything they had done so far. Closing my eyes, I could almost picture the ones I had met smiling down at me, accepting my words of thanks. I knew I hadn't been the most compliant all the time, but I hoped they would approve with how everything turned out.
Just a moment later, I could hear some approaching steps, having been left in silence. I knew it meant the time was here. I felt a small wave of nausea, figuring it was the last attempt of my nerves to let themselves known. I leant down and took in a few deep breaths, lifting my head in time to see Sarabi enter. Without anything being said, we looked into each other's eyes. Of course, the silence was broken, "If everything is okay." She walked to my side and nudged me along, "Then we will get started. Come on, you can do this." She encouraged me, letting me take a few unsteady steps before I composed myself enough that she didn't have to lean against me in support. The two of us made it into the open, where I could see in the distance, there were crowds of animals gathered. When I looked at a closer distance, I saw that all the lions, both guests and pride members were all ordered and waiting. They hadn't seen me yet, but it wouldn't be much longer. I paused for a moment, taking the scene in. The sun had started to lower and so the sky was turning to a brilliant orange, though it wasn't quite there yet. Sarabi got my attention, "Tishala, you look about as beautiful as I've ever seen you. I am so proud to be here to see this." She kept her words soft, embracing me for a moment.
We stopped when another voice came in, "I'm going to have to agree with all that she said, Tishala." I was a little startled by the sudden presence of his voice, but Nguvu didn't react with anything other than a smile to my confusion. Before I could even ask, he was ready to answer, "Sarabi and I discussed last time I was in the Pridelands; we felt it would be best if were to be here, in lieu of your father's absence. I will be the one to take you to Simba," he gestured over to the congregation, letting me see Simba up at the front, looking nervous, but excited. My eyes went back to the Kifalme king when he continued, "but I will only be the one to do this if you want me to. I understand that I can never be your actual father." He smiled down at me with a warm expression, matched by Sarabi.
My bottom lip trembled a little as a smile grew on my face. I nuzzled up against him, pressing into his mane. The large lion reciprocated, a gentle lick on one of my ears, "Nguvu, I would love it if you could do that for me. It would be perfect, thank you so much." I stepped back as the two of us smiled at each other. I looked back to Sarabi, who had watched it all with a smile on her face.
Nguvu looked at her as well, the two nodding to each other, "Thank you, Sarabi. I will see to it that she gets to Simba." They nodded again, prompting Sarabi to walk ahead and take her place at the front, near her son. Only once she was there did Nguvu speak again. I could tell he was feeling a little emotional as well when he opened his mouth, "After all you've been through, to see you looking like this, like a true queen, I can't begin to explain how proud it makes me feel. Everything you have done has led to this point, and I know somewhere above, your family is watching with joy in their faces. I know that Kiburi is too. He would be so proud of you, and everything you do. I just know it." He paused for a few seconds as we both paid thoughts to his eldest son. After the moment had passed, he started again, "I think we best get you over there." He smiled, huffing out a little bit.
As if on cue, a gentle melody was getting louder. I looked around and spotted some birds gathered, acting as the source. Zazu sat near them and for a second, we made eye contact. In response to Nguvu, we both took our first steps together, the music getting a little louder as all pride members and guests were made aware that I was arriving. As all eyes turned to me, I couldn't help but smile, feeling the positive energy from them all. Once we were walking past them, I could spot all their different faces. Some of the guests I didn't know, some that I did; Taji, Amali, even Fedha had a smile on his face. I could spot Winda, Nala, Sarafina, Inja, all of them looking on at me, only with sunny expressions toward me. Of course, Timon and Pumbaa weren't difficult to spot. I didn't know if I did it without thinking, but the last I laid my eyes on was Simba. Each step closer, I could see him clearer than before. Just a few more steps and then he and I were facing each other in front of everyone. Nguvu and I nuzzled once more before he went to sit with Amali and his family. I took a second to look in the direction opposite all the lions, and I could see we were in clear view of the vast number of animals that had gathered to see Simba and I. With another deep breath, I looked to Simba, who wore the same nervous smile as I did. Despite the nerves though, looking into his eyes, there was nothing going to stop me from being with him. I afforded a small glance up to the taji on him. It was the same, all the colours making up the different symbols to represent. It wasn't hidden by his mane at all, just making it stand out even more. Whilst the music started to fade, Simba and I stared into each other's eyes, our smiles growing as I realised just how great what I was going to do was. It felt like the best thing to me, and I could tell it did for him too.
Once the music had come to a graceful stop, Rafiki wasted no time throwing a large loop of purple flowers over both of us. It was long enough it rested on both our shoulders and still gave room for space between us, though there wasn't much to begin with. Timon and Pumbaa's help with Rafiki made sense now, and I almost couldn't believe it was their handiwork. I didn't need any time to get used to the feel of the weight of the wreath. Rafiki spoke up, his voice loud enough for a lot to hear him, though he wasn't shouting, "To all of you here, dis is de day we celebrate de love of two lions who know who dey are, and have chosen to join as one. In dis, dey will also from dis day be de king and queen of de Pridelands. If you do not approve, show your voice. If not, we will continue." He stood taller as he spoke, all of us waiting for an objection that was never going to come. In that time, all I could do was keep my eyes on Simba, lost in the moment with him.
A few seconds longer of silence was enough for Rafiki to be satisfied, "Very well, we will continue." He nodded and went between Simba and I for a moment, ducking under the flower wreath. He took a few steps past us before turning around with an assortment of different things. Looking at them, I could guess these were the four tastes that Sarabi had told me about. "In love, we all experience many feelings. Dis is no different when married." I wasn't sure why, but that was one of the first times I had heard the word married whilst here. Of course, it didn't stick in my mind for long, Rafiki continuing as he put one of the foods in each of his hands and held it to me and Simba each. He muttered, "Now eat." We both complied, taking from his hands as he spoke once we started chewing. Having looked at it, I could tell we were having the spice first. I realised I was tasting cumin. I loved cumin anyway but could see it was a bit hot for Simba, though he powered through. "Taste now de spice, for d'ere is spice and passion in every enduring relationship. As you both find and express your hearts' deepest longings, with de great kings and queens of de past, we will offer our respect and encouragement without measure and without limit, as dey would do de same." He announced, grabbing the next item once we had finished.
I looked at his offering this time and didn't recognise it so much. This time though, Rafiki pushed it to us, both having no choice but to open up. The moment that I bit down though; I could feel my eyes almost water as a bitter taste overwhelmed me. There was no doubt this was the bitter, or at least I hoped it was. Meanwhile, Rafiki was continuing his role, "Taste now de bitter, for every life and love of depth will know its moments of denial and rejection when we feel turned away by life. As both of you encounter times when bitterness might take hold of your hearts, with de great kings and queens of de past, we will offer our guidance, support and wisdom, without measure and without limit, as dey would do de same." He continued, a small murmur coming from those watching on. I could see Simba also struggling as we swallowed the bitter taste, a smile returning after we did that.
Rafiki didn't waste any time presenting the next one to us, though he didn't force this food in, knowing it wasn't going to require as much force as the bitter might. I could teel some others were amused by what they had watched with the bitter taste, but it didn't take any time for my mood to lift again to where it was before. Sarabi was right, I would enjoy this part. Looking at it, I could tell it was a fruit, though I wasn't sure what kind of fruit. Simba and I were given a segment each and we took it, biting down. Almost straight away, I could see Simba's reaction to it. A second later, the sourness of the fruit hit me, making me give enough of a reaction that others would notice, "Taste now de sour, for every life and love of integrity admits to its share of times which stray from perfection. As both of you experience life's disappointments as well as successes together, with de great kings and queens of de past, we will offer our love and support, without measure and without limit, as dey would do de same." Rafiki went on, letting everyone take in his words as I felt them with each bite.
Once we had finished, we no longer had to guess what was coming, with only the sweet taste left. Rafiki held up to us a small segment of yellow passionfruit, almost making my mouth water. It hadn't hit me at that point, that I was almost there. I could only feel the love from everyone in attendance, but at the same time, it was like I could only see Simba, like we were alone, and I couldn't have felt any happier. Looking into each other's eyes, we took our pieces and started eating to let Rafiki round off the tastes, "And for de last, taste now de sweet, for de abundance of life which has brought dese two lovers here to be joined in marriage will continue to pour itself out for de lovers' enjoyment. As Simba and Tishala know de sweetness of married life in all its ages and stages, with de great kings and queens of de past, we will offer our congratulations and benedictions without measure and without limit, as dey would do de same." He looked between the two of us with a growing smile, as if to tell us his own personal congratulations, even if we weren't finished yet. It wasn't long before he was announcing to our audience, "Now dey know de feelings in marriage, dey will express de love dey feel for each other." He finished, stepping back.
With that announcement, it left Simba and I in centre by ourselves, Rafiki having moved aside. Neither of us had discussed who would talk first, so for a little moment, we both looked at each other as if to prompt the other to start. I won out though, Simba taking in a deep breath before he spoke up, "Tishala, you came into my life as a surprise when I was young. Then, you came back into my life as a surprise. The second time you found me though, when I was lost, scared, and whilst I wasn't alone, there were times I had nothing by my own inner demons to keep me company. It didn't change straight away, but the moment you found me...the moment we found each other again, those demons couldn't eat away at me. With you, I have someone I feel both so invincible, and so vulnerable with. With you, I am at my strongest, my most exposed, my happiest. You are the one who inspires me every day I wake up and see you, the one who teaches me every time you speak, the one who comforts me before I realise, I need it. I can only hope as we continue through life together, I will be able to do the same for you. Tishala, I didn't think, that on that day, away from the Pridelands, when I asked if you would be the one by my side, I didn't think I could be any happier. With each day that passed though, I knew I was wrong, because I fell for you more every day. From the surprise to the love of my life, I know that whatever life may throw our way, the one constant that I have will be the love I feel for you. I know that today is the happiest I have ever been, and the days after will only have that grow. I know this is all possible because of you, Tishala. You were the best surprise I could get. I love you."
I could feel a tear coming to my eyes with what he said. In truth, it wouldn't have mattered what he said, because I knew I was going to feel the same warm, adored feeling I was getting from him in that moment. I could feel my cheeks burn as I started my own speech to him, "When I found you, it took a little time, but I knew that I held a deep love for you. Every day we spent with each other after you asked me to be yours, I knew you were just as much mine. Each passing day, I felt our love grow and change. It changed as we did, but I never felt it dwindle. It is endless, and I know that for the rest of my life I will do my best to show you just how endless my love is for you. You talk about how I was the best surprise, but to me, I found myself surprised with just how much someone could love me. Sometimes I still have to make sure it's true. At times I will look up to the skies and thank the great kings for how lucky I am, and how grateful I am that we are together. Every time I see you, I'm overcome with a warmth that only you can make me feel. With you I never feel judged or alone. With you, I know I can do things I didn't think possible for me. Simba, you say I'm an inspiration to you, but having grown up with you, I can't help but feel more in love, inspired by the lion you are now. I know that as you continue to grow and change, I want to be the one by your side, encouraging you, and giving you the love that I know I will receive in return. There is no one in this life who fills me with such excitement for what is to come, but when I'm with you, I can only look ahead to our future together with optimism, because when I'm with you, I know ours is a special love I can only cherish. Simba, of all the lions, words can't describe how overjoyed I am that I found you. I love you."
Both of us wanted to embrace in that moment, the weight of both of our words filling us with adoration for each other. Our royal mjuzi had other ideas though, speaking up again, "Both of dem have exchanged de love dey share for one another. And now, dey will show us de sound of two who have become one." He nudged us, and although I gave him a little look of confusion, the gesture he made clued me in on what I had to do. Simba and I both gave each other another look before turning to face the lions in attendance. A moment of silence passed before both of us gave them a roar together, Rafiki speaking up after our roar died down, "Now join me in saying to de new king and queen of de Pridelands, familia yako itafanikiwa!" He started laughing after saying it.
"Familia yako itafanikiwa!" I watched everyone repeat the mandrill's words, seeing their smiles as the ceremony was completed and cheers started erupting from them. It was impossible for me to hold back the grin that come to my face, and even more so impossible to stop me from leaning against Simba, where he and I shifted a little, so our cheeks were rubbing. Only he and I could hear our purrs as we continued to embrace the first time as a married couple. We held our passionate embrace for a while, soaking up the attention. The entire time, I had my eyes closed, an adoring smile plastered on my face as Simba held himself closer to me. I opened my eyes to look into the crowd, where for a brief moment, I spotted Fikiria, also cheering, alongside his sister. Our eyes met for the briefest of moments, and that was all before Simba and I finally broke from our embrace.
Rafiki took off the wreath but left our tajis on. "Now for your kingdom, your majesties." He bowed, using his staff to point to where we would ascend on pride rock. We nodded and started making our way over, still taking in the feeling of elation and their fitting calls to us. Sarabi peeled away from the congregation to join us on pride rock. The three of us looked at each other, unable to stop beaming.
It didn't take long before we were all ready. Near the edge of the rock, I could see just how many turned out for this event. I couldn't even think of counting how many were there. Animals both great and small were gathered and watching. Sarabi took a step forward, looking out to the spectacular orange glow of the skies and then down to the subjects she had. In that moment, I pictured what it was like for her to watch this from my perspective. The regal lioness let out a roar. In it, I could hear her emotions to it all. The joy she felt that her son was taking his place in the circle of life with his queen, the slight bit of sadness her own love couldn't be there to see it with her, and the thankful feelings she felt towards all of the Pridelands' animals for accepting her as their queen. A few more moments passed before she turned to let us go ahead. When I saw her face, I could see the tears in her eyes, complimented by the smile she had. The emotions were raw for everyone.
Simba and I stepped forwards together, looking down to all of the animals in attendance. I felt a new pang of nerves, though it was quelled the moment I felt one of Simba's paws rest atop mine. After giving one more look to each other, we both let out a mighty roar together, repeating a couple times as we started to hear some cheers from the other animals in jubilation. As we kept going, we could hear everyone else start to join in, hitting me with the greatest sensation of belonging I had ever felt. With our roar, we sealed it officially. We were the king and queen of the Pridelands.
As if my previous thoughts had been answered, I could feel the return of that familiar breeze. In it, I could feel the soft winds carry all the voices of those great rulers, all giving their blessing. I could tell from how the air circled around both of us, Simba was hearing it to. For just a moment, I thought I could make out amongst the voices, that of Simba's father, but just for a second. Hearing it for as long as I did, I knew it was something Simba would cherish, lifting all our spirits.
Once we stopped and the wind faded, all the animals continued to cheer from below, where we both took it in. I looked up to see the amazement on Simba's face. Such a scene had me in awe as well. The longer I looked up at him, the more he became aware of it, eventually looking back down to me. "I love you so much." He swooned before nuzzling me again, our cheeks rubbing, all the love we had on full display.
"I love you too."
A/N: I was so excited to write this chapter out, I couldn't wait around for next month to start getting it done, so, y'know, here it is! I do not own the Lion King franchise, that's all Disney. This chapter has been one I was looking forward to writing out for a looong time, so please please please let me know what you think and review, I would love to hear it! See you all next time!