Lea Halalela: Part 2

by Kalimba Tijuana Razi

This is a continuation of my other story, Lea Halalela. It starts with Simba's reign and ends with a new King.

3. We Are One

We Are One

For the next four seasons, Zira trained her children and her pride. They wrestled each other, practiced their fighting skills, and planned on taking revenge. Soon, Kiara was a full grown lioness just like her Mother. She was getting ready to go on her fist hunt. Meanwhile, Zira was prepping Kovu and the rest of her family on the first part of their plan which involved Kiara. Kovu was full grown. His mane was sheer black and he had a growl that made creatures quiver in fear. Malakai, Nuka, Razi and Vitani were also full grown. Nuka and Malakai had their manes grown in except Nuka's mane was shaggy and scattered. "You are ready,"said Zira to Kovu. "You look just like Scar and have the same blackness in your heart. What is your mission today?"

"Enter Simba's pride,"said Kovu.

"What is your destiny?"

"I will avenge Scar. I take his place in the Pridelands as King."

"Who is your enemy?"

"Simba."

"What must you do to him?"

"I must kill him."

"You have learned well. Nuka and Vitani will set the Pridelands on fire while Kiara is out on her hunt. Malakai and Razi will be the lookouts and confirm with me the information I need. Go quickly and take your positions. The plan will begin momentarily." Razi and Malakai followed Nuka and Vitani out of the den. Zira walked behind Malakai and slashed his left back leg. "You better not mess up today,"said Zira. Malakai felt the pain tingling in his leg. "Trust me Mother, if I do mess up, I won't return for I know I will only get killed,"said Malakai. Malakai limped out of the den. Still scarred on his shoulder, Malakai feared to return to the Outlands even if he didn't fail. He feared his Mother's anger.

Back at the Pridelands, Kiara was being prepared for her first hunt. All of the lionesses greeted Kiara as she walked down the side of Pride Rock. Everyone gave her words of wisdom and confidence as she walked down. Simba and Nals stood at the end of the ramp and greeted their daughter. Nala nuzzled Kiara. "You'll do just fine,"she said. "Daddy, please promise to let me do this on my own,"said Kiara.

"I don't know Kiara,"said Simba.

"Please Daddy."

"Kiara I don't think-"

"This is my first hunt and I want to be able to prove myself to the pride."

"I understand."

"Do you promise."

"Alright I promise." Kiara was very exited. She leapt over to her Father and gave him a big nuzzle. "Thank You Daddy,"she whispered into Simba's ear then leapt down the rocks to the bottom of Pride Rock and ran off into the savannah. Simba was not at ease. He was very nervous for Kiara and paced anxiously back and forth. Timon and Pumbaa watched Simba and finally approached him. "Do you want us to find Kiara?"asked Timon. Simba looked up at his friend and acknowledged their kindness. "Thanks guys but I am learning to trust my daughter and I have to let her do this on her own,"he said.

"Well, what if we were just walking through the Pridelands and coincidentally ran into Kiara without having her see us?"

"Like spying?"

"Not spying but watching over."

"I don't know Timon...Just make sure she doesn't get hurt." Timon and Pumbaa raced off into the savannah hoping to locate Kiara. Simba was still anxious even with his friends trying to keep and eye on her. He continued to pace Pride Rock and awaited his daughter's arrival.

Meanwhile, Zira was beginning her plan. She sent Nuka and Vitani to the elephant graveyard. They had to go to one of the fire pits and retrieve sticks with fire on them to burn the Pridelands. Vitani carried the sticks in her mouth with Nuka trailing behind. "This place is so creepy. I think it looked better with the hyenas here. At least it wasn't as freaky then,"he said. Vitani rolled her eyes at Nuka and jumped down to the fire pit. "I'm not scared of this place. I just don't think we have to be here. Why does Kovu need us. He may be special but we're not his servants. I never even had a chance to prove myself. I should be the chosen one since I am the oldest, smartest, strongest and-". Vitani took one of the flaming sticks and put it up to Nuka's tail. Nuka screamed and patted his burning tail with his paws. "Will you stop babbling. Kiara has already started her hunt. We have to move quickly if we are going to catch her. Grab your stick from the pit and let's go,"said Vitani. Nuka got up and grabbed his stick from the pit then followed Vitani out of the elephant graveyard.

Back in the Pridelands, Kiara was having a difficult time hunting. She was trying as best as she could to be stealthy but no matter what she did, the gazelle heard her and ran off. Timon and Pumbaa were sitting in the grasslands waiting for Kiara to suddenly appear but she never did; the gazelle did. The gazelle leaped over their screaming bodies. At the back of the herd, Kiara ran but never caught one gazelle. She soon stumbled upon Timon and Pumbaa. They looked up at her and screamed. "What are you guys doing here?"she asked with anger. "We're looking for bugs,"said Pumbaa.

"Did my Father send you here?"

"No, we just felt like some slimy bugs.

"But there are never any bugs in this part of the grasslands."

"Oops."

"My Father did send you. He promised to let me do this on my own. He lied to me."

"Kiara, he doesn't want you to get hurt. He was just trying to protect you."

"I should've known he would never give me a real chance."

"That's not true."

"Yes it is. I'll do this on my own, away from the Pridelands." Kiara ran fast into the distance. Timon and Pumbaa ran after her screaming her name. After some time, they lost her in the tall grass. Kiara ran as far as she could before she ran out of breath. Kiara spotted the gazelle herd and slowly approached them. Nuka and Vitani were standing nearby ready to release the flames. They ran around with their sticks, filling the savannah with flames until every part of the land was engulfed in the flames. The gazelle herd smelled the flames and retreated back. Kiara got caught in their stampede and fell to the ground. When she looked up, she saw the flames coming over the hills. Kiara ran farther and farther into the distance. In the Outlands, Zira stood with Kovu. They were sitting atop of a rock and were surrounded by flames. "The plan is in motion,"said Zira. "Then I'll take my leave now before the flames get any bigger,"said Kovu. He leapt over the flames surrounding the rocks and ran off into the savannah. At Pride Rock, Simba continued to wait impatiently for Kiara's return home. Zazu flew in and hovered above. "Simba! There is a massive fire in the grasslands,"he cried. Simba turned around and saw the smoke from afar. "Kiara! Zazu fly ahead and look for her,"hollered Simba in a panic. "Help me find her,"he cried to the lionesses. Simba led Nala and some other lionesses into the distance. Kiara was struggling to avoid the roaring flames. Everywhere she turned, she was surrounded by them. She became trapped in a ring of fire and began to choke on the smoke. Kiara tried to find a way out and she did. There was a small gap in the flames where she could escape through and it led to a small cliff hanger that would get her out of the flames. Kiara sprinted to the opening and leapt to the cliff hanger. She reached the top but still dangled above the flames. Kiara started to slip off but pulled herself back up and threw her body forward. Kiara was at the top of the cliff, above the flames but was choked by the smoke and collapsed. A dark figure lurked behind Kiara. She could barely focus but turned her head around and looked at the figure. The figure showed his teeth with a snarl. Kiara lost consciousness and past out in front of the figure. The figure came out of the shadows and looked at Kiara. The figure was Kovu. Kovu grabbed Kiara and threw her over his shoulder. Kiara's body laid on Kovu's back and dangled. Kovu ran off of the cliff hanger dodging the fire as best as he could. The only obstacle in his way was a burning tree which fell down. Kovu tried to dodge it but he turned the wrong way and plummeted over a steep hill and into a watering hole. Kovu and Kiara tumbled down the hill until they splashed into the water. Kiara began to sink but Kovu dove under and grabbed her by the scruff. Kovu swam to land with unconscious Kiara in his grasp. Zazu flew over the watering hole and saw Kiara in Kovu's mouth. "I must warn Simba,"he said. Zazu flew over the watering hole away from the scene. Kovu reached land and dragged Kiara on shore. Kovu released Kiara from his grasp and moved his body slowly onto shore. Kiara slowly awoke and then gained full consciousness. "Where am I?"she asked.

"Your safe in the Pridelands,"said Kovu.

"What! Why did you bring me here? Who do you think you are?"

"I believe I am the one that just saved your life."

"I hade everything under control without your help."

"Apparently not if I had to rescue you."

"Then maybe you should move down wind because I did have everything under control." Kiara began to walk away but Kovu jumped in front of her. Kiara tried moving a different direction but he cut her off again. Kiara moved again but faced Kovu completely this time. She backed up and never turned around. Kovu looked at her in a puzzled manner. "What are you doing?"he asked. Kiara looked at him with a strange feeling. "Kovu?"she asked. Kovu just smiled. Kiara smiled back because she knew it was her friend. "Kiara!"cried Simba. Simba ran out in front of Kiara and blocked her form Kovu. Nala ran behind Simba and towards Kiara. "Kiara! I'm so glad your alright,"she said. Kiara glared at Simba who bared his teeth at Kovu. "Father how could you break your promise to me?"she asked in anger. "It's a good thing I did break my promise. No more hunts Kiara. Not now not ever,"he said.

"But I was doing just fine even before Kovu-"

"Kovu!" Simba roared at Kovu and Kovu roared back. "Simba! What is with this behavior?"asked Nala. "Daddy, he saved my life. He rescued me from the fire and brought me back to the Pridelands,"said Kiara. "I saw it all sire. He was in the water with Kiara in his grasp and dragged her to the shore,"said Zazu. "Why did you save her?"asked Simba. "I humbly ask to join your pride,"said Kovu. "No!"snapped Simba.

"May I ask why? I tried to prove myself to you by rescuing Kiara."

"No you were banished with the other Outsiders and are not welcome just like them."

"I have left the Outsiders. Now, I am a rogue, a loner without anyone."

"That is your own fault for leaving your family."

"All I ask is that you consider judgement or am I to be blamed for a crime I didn't commit." There was a dead silence for some time. Simba paced back and forth wondering what was best. "Simba, you owe him your daughter's life. Don't you think it is best repay him?"asked Nala. "Unfortunately sire, we are in his debt. Royal protocol demands that all debts be paid although you may want to make an exception for this rapscallion,"said Zazu. Simba looked back at Kovu and made his decision. "My Father's law will prevail. For now, I will consider judgement. Let's see who you really are Outsider,"said Simba. Kiara's eyes lit up as she followed everyone back to Pride Rock.

At Pride Rock, The pride was entering the den getting ready for bed. Kovu thought it would be okay to sleep in the den but it apparently wasn't. Simba rushed over to Kovu and blocked him from entering the den. "You'll sleep outside until you are trusted Outsider,"said Simba then he entered the den. Kovu laid near a rock on the side of the den. Kovu went over to the rock and laid down as Kiara came up Pride Rock. She approached Kovu and smiled. "Thank you Kovu for saving me today,"said Kiara. "You should be more careful miss hunter,"he snapped back.

"What are you talking about?"

"You almost got yourself killed out there today."

"But thanks to you I didn't."

"Well what if I wasn't there to save you?"

"What?"

"You wouldn't be able to last on your own."

"I suppose you could teach me?"

"I guess I could."

"Well alright. We'll start at dawn. I hope to be impressed."

"I look forward to every minute of it Princess." Kiara walked into the den and Kovu laid back next to his rock. From a distance, Zira, Nuka and Malakai looked onto the scene. Nuka was shocked. "Mother! Mother! Did you see that?"he pestered. "Yes I saw it now hush,"said Zira.

"But he let her go! If that were me I-"

"Hush! The rescue scene went flawlessly and Simba believed it."

"But I would have-"

"Nuka Hush! The closer Kovu gets to the daughter, the closer he gets to Simba and once he has Simba alone, he will kill him on the spot."

"Why is everything about revenge and wanting to kill?"asked Malakai. Zira turned around and stared at her son. "The point is that we are taking back what is rightfully ours and being able to claim the throne again for Scar,"said Zira.

"How is violence going to solve that?"

"We are making the situation better for us. When we get Simba out of the way, his family will crumble and forfeit the throne to us."

"How do you know?"

"I know because I am your Mother and I know all." Malakai wasn't going to take the argument any further and limped back to the den. Poor Malakai could barely put any pain on his leg or his shoulder. His leg was scratched with a big bruise underneath and his shoulder still had the scars from his scratch as a cub. Zira and Nuka followed behind him shortly after. The night was quiet and the savannah hushed but Simba couldn't sleep well. He kept having strange nightmares.

Simba was reliving the moment of when his Father was murdered except, he wasn't a cub. Simba heard his voice. "Simba! Simba! Help me son!"called Mufasa as he clung to the gorge wall. Simba rushed to his Father's side. "Hang on Father!"he cried. Simba began to reach for Mufasa's paw but heard this strange cackling form behind. It was a silhouette of Scar. The dark figure came forward towards Simba. "No Dad,"Simba said as he reached farther for Mufasa's paw. Simba almost grabbed it but then he was grabbed by Scar. "I have you now. Trust me,"said Scar. Mufasa began to slip down the cliff. "Simba!"called Mufasa as he slipped farther away from Simba. Simba watched Mufasa's body plumate into the gorge. "Nooooooooooooooooo!"cried Simba. He looked back at Scar and saw the silhouette transform into Kovu. "Trust me,"said Kovu. Simba looked at him with wide eyes. Then, Kovu threw Simba over the edge. Simba screamed as his body fell to the bottom of the gorge and hit the floor. Simba awoke in the den with fears in his head. It was still dark outside and everyone was still asleep. Simba got up and went to the den entrance. He saw Kovu sleeping there soundly. Simba knew he had to relax. He walked back into the den and laid down next to Nala. Simba finally relaxed enough and went to sleep.

When Simba awoke the next morning, he got up before everyone else and went down to the water hole. Simba relaxed by the water hole for some time. It wasn't long before Kovu woke up and was spying on Simba. He was all alone. Kovu thought it was the perfect opportunity to kill Simba. He prepared himself but out of nowhere comes Kiara. "Good morning! I'm ready for my hunting lesson,"she said. Kovu looked back at the water hole and saw no Simba. "Hey, let's go,"said Kiara as she raced off into the grasslands. Kovu followed her slowly behind. The grass was to tall to see Kiara but Kovu knew where she was at all times. He could heae her. Kovu got out of the tall grass quickly but saw Kiara struggling to get out. Kovu laid down on the ground and waited for her to come out. Kovu could see Kiara moving through the grass. She was ready to pounce on something. "Got'cha,"called Kiara. Kovu jumped out of the way before Kiara pinned him. Kiara flipped over onto her back and looked up at Kovu. "You heard me didn't you,"she said. "Alot,"said Kovu.

"What am I doing wrong?"

"First of all, You're breathing way too hard. You have to relax."

"Relax, got it."

"Next, you have to be patient and think before you move your paws because if your rush through, you'll make a lot of noise and the prey will runaway when they hear you."

"Alright, what else?"

"You need to grip the ground. Feel the earth under your paws so it doesn't shift and make noise." Kovu spotted some birds flying over a nearby hill and thought he would show Kiara exactly how real hunting was done. "Ssshhhhhhhh. Watch the master of hunting and learn how it should be done,"said Kovu. Kovu slowly suck up the hill then ran and pounced a small creature he thought was a bird. It was actually Timon eating a slug. "Hey man! What have I ever done to you to deserve this?"asked Timon. Kiara came over the hill and saw Kovu on top of Timon. "Timon! What are you doing here?"she asked.

"Well, Pumbaa and I were trying to eat some bugs but are now having a difficult time to since you two knuckle-heads sent over the buzzards." Pumbaa was trying to scare the buzzards away but they refused to flee. "Hey Timon! Do you think they could help us?"asked Pumbaa. Timon glared at Kovu and sighed. "I guess they could. Can you roar?" Kovu looked at Kiara in a puzzled manner. "Watch the master and learn,"said Kiara. Kiara let out a loud roar and watched the buzzards fly away. Some flew back down so Kovu let out a big roar scaring the rest of them away. Timon jumped on Pumbaa's back and ran through the savannah with Kovu and Kiara behind them. "What is the point of this training?"asked Kovu. "This isn't training! It's just for fun,"said Kiara. Kovu didn't understand. He had heard of the word fun but didn't know what it was. "Fun?"he asked. Timon looked back at Kovu. "Yeah fun. You know, run around, play, just let loose,"said Timon as he let out a big scream. Everyone continued running. They ran into a small gorge with many twists and turns. They laughed uncontrollably until they ran into a herd of rhinos. The rhinos became furious. Kiara and Kovu ran the other way with Timon and Pumbaa following behind. The rhinos were picking up speed quickly. Kiara found a small cavern in the wall and jumped in. Kovu did the same and pulled Timon and Pumbaa in before they were squashed by rhino feet. The rhinos ran past the crevice and didn't notice everyone sitting inside. They were still laughing from their day of fun. "That was so much fun!"exclaimed Kovu. Everyone still laughed. Timon and Pumbaa smiled at Kovu and then squeezed out of the den. As they squeezed out, Kiara maneuvered her body the wrong way and rubbed her lips onto Kovu's face. Kiara was embarrassed and just smiled. Kovu felt embarrassed as well; he thought Kiara was kissing him. Kiara and Kovu just smiled at each other and climbed out of the crevice. Timon and Pumbaa were waiting for them impatiently. "Hurry up you lazy slugs,"called Timon. Kiara and Kovu followed Timon and Pumbaa back to the Pridelands.

That night, Kovu and Kiara laid under the stars. They could see all kinds of formations in the stars. "I see a gazelle,"said Kiara. "I see it too. That is too cool,"said Kovu

"What can you see?"

"There's a frog."

"Wow! You're right. Look over there! I see a little rabbit. See the fluffy tail?"

"Yeah. Over here, that one looks like two lions trying to kill each other for a scrap of meat. This so much fun."

"You haven't done this before?"

"No, I never even got a chance to look at the stars very clearly or ever."

"Really? My Father and I used to do this all the time when I was a cub. He told me that all of the Great Kings of the Past are up there, watching over us."

"Do you think Scar is up there?"

"My Father told me that he isn't because he wasn't a good King."

"He wasn't even my Father but he was still a part of me."

"My Father said that there was a darkness in Scar that he couldn't escape."

"Do you think I have a darkness too?"

"That's impossible. You are too good to have a darkness." Kovu got up from where he laid and sat down on the flat grass. Kiara went over to him and cuddled up to him. "Even though I'm an Outsider?"he asked. Kiara smiled. "Always, at least to me,"said Kiara. Simba was sitting on a nearby hill overseeing the situation. "Father, I am so lost. Kovu isn't one of us. He is an Outsider, Scar's heir. Kiara loves him but I don't know if that is right for her. How will I be able to accept him?"said Simba to the sky. "Simba?"called Nala as she approached him and sat down next to him. "Are you alright?"she asked.

"I'm fine. I was seeking council with the Great Kings."

"Did they help you?"

"Silent as stars. My Father would never accept an Outsider, not even for judgement."

"Simba, why do you want to walk the path expected of you so much?"

"I am not trying to but I feel that I have to walk a certain distance to make my Father proud."

"You want so much to walk the path expected of you but I don't think Kovu does."

"How do you know?"

"I can see them just as easily as you can. Why don't you try to get to know him and see what he is really like." Nala walked back to the den with Simba trailing behind. Kiara and Kovu sat quietly in the stillness of the night. Kovu felt uneasy and Kiara could feel it. "What's wrong?"asked Kiara. "Nothing,"said Kovu.

"That's not true."

"Yes it is."

"No it's not or else you would be more relaxed."

"It's nothing really. Well that's not true."

"Do you want to talk about something?"

"It's just, all of my life I have been trained to-. Wait...No. I got to go."

"Kovu wait." Kovu began to walk away but Kiara wouldn't let him go. Kovu had to run away from Kiara. Kovu ran all the way to Rafiki's tree with Kiara following behind. Kovu stopped and sat down. Secretly, Rafiki sat up in his tree with his stick in hand. Rafiki tapped his stick twice above Kovu's head. Suddenly, the background behind Kovu became dark and dry like the Outlands. When Kiara arrived next to Kovu, the background changed to the bright and sunny Pridelands. The two lions were puzzled. They didn't know what was going on. Rafiki swung down from his tree and landed in front of the two lovers. "I see you have found Old Rafiki's upendi,"said Rafiki. The two looked at each other and back at Rafiki. "Upendi, the special place in your heart is where you find love. Both of you have found the upendi within you and have shared it with each other. When two lovers share upendi, they share a piece of themselves with their other. When you have your other, you have, bliss, happiness, and a whole world but when you are apart, your life is a half life; there is no happiness. Half of you will fell and empty feeling because you will be missing something. To keep upendi, you must be with each other forever and for always because you love each other. Your love is what keeps upendi strong. Now go, go on and share your upendi with the world. Share your love with family, friends and with each other forever to keep your lives beautifully bliss." With that said, Rafiki disappeared into his tree and into the night. Kiara and Kovu watched as the background behind them disappeared and the sun began to rise. Kovu and Kiara went back to Pride Rock. Kiara went into the den and Kovu went to his rock. Both lions were exhausted from being out all night. Kovu slept for most of the afternoon until Simba came outside. Simba stood over Kovu and stared at him. Simba let out a sigh and Kovu woke up immediately. He just stared at Simba knowing he could be in trouble; after all, he was out all night with Kiara. "A little tired?"asked Simba. "A little,"said Kovu.

"Why don't we go for a walk."

"Sounds great." Kovu and Simba leapt off of Pride Rock and into the grasslands, unaware that Vitani was spying on them in the distance. "Get him. Get him,"she mumbled to herself. "C'mon Kovu get him." Kovu and Simba just continued to walk in the grasslands. Vitani snarled at Kovu and then ran back to the Outlands. Zira was training Malakai and Razi how to attack their opponent. "Alright Malakai, I want you to show me what you have been taught. Imagine Razi is your opponent. Attack her like she was your opponent,"said Zira. "Mother! I can't hurt Razi,"replied Malakai.

"If you can't hurt your opponent, you won't win the fight."

"What if I don't want to win the fight."

"Well your still going to fight. You have no choice."

"I have a choice and that is what is in my heart."

"You are to pure."

"Why is that such a problem?"

"Pure ones can never be killers."

"I don't want to be a killer. Killing only leads to things worse than killing. If we fight Simba's pride, we are going to lose members of our family as well. They are extremely powerful."

"We are not going to lose the fight. I have been waiting long and hard for this moment and I am not going to let you or anyone else ruin it!" "Mother! Mother!"cried Vitani as she ran in. "I have the status on the operation." "What do you have?"asked Zira.

"Kovu and Simba were walking out alone together."

"What did Kovu do?"

"He didn't do anything. It was the perfect opportunity to kill Simba but he didn't do anything." Zira was furious and let out a loud roar to release her fury. "Are you sure?"asked Zira. "Affirmative. I saw it with my own eyes,"said Vitani.

"Kovu cannot betray us."

"I do have good news Mother."

"What is it?"

"Kovu and Simba are walking in the grasslands, in our direction."

"Now is the perfect time for our attack. Where were they headed?"

"Into the grasslands where we set the fire. Nearest to the blocked river."

"Round up the pride! We attack today!" "Mother, are you sure this is the right idea? I don't feel comfortable in this situation,"said Malakai. "I don't care about what you feel is right or wrong! We all are going to attack!"exclaimed Zira.

"I don't want to attack!"

"You don't have a choice." "Yes we do have a choice. We don't have to fight for you and we are not going to,"said angry Razi. She was no longer going to sit back and listen to Zira's orders. Zira became furious and lashed out at Razi. Malakai leapt in front of her and began to fight Zira. Razi watched in horror as Zira slashed poor Malakai in the neck and back. Malakai did the best he could do to defend himself but Zira nailed him in every spot. Malakai continued to fight even when he was bleeding. Malakai became weaker as he kept fighting. Zira whacked Malakai in the neck again and knocked him down to the ground. Razi rushed to his side and began to lick his wounds. "Razi! Leave the traitor there. He'll be dead by the time we come back,"said Zira. Razi ignored Zira and got closer to Malakai. "Fine! If you wish to betray your family as well, then so be it,"said Zira. Zira walked out of the Outlands with Vitani and the other Outsiders, leaving Razi and Malakai alone together.

Meanwhile. Simba and Kovu had been walking through the grasslands slowly and quietly. Kovu was quiet for the most part and didn't say anything. Simba knew Kovu felt uneasy with the situation and sat down with him by the water hole. Kovu was still quiet. "Are you alright?"asked Simba. "I don't know. I think I'm just tired,"said Kovu.

"Is there anything you would like to talk about?"

"No not really."

"Well, then there are some things that I would like to talk to you about something."

"Alright."

"It appears you were out all night with Kiara."

"Simba, we didn't mean to come back so late, we were just laying out watching the stars and didn't know-"

"Whoa! Slow down Kovu. I'm not mad at you. I am actually proud that you brought her back. I assumed, with you being and Outsider, that she would be hurt or wouldn't come back at all."

"I would never do anything to hurt Kiara."

"I'm glad to hear that. Why don't we start walking. There's something I would like to show you." Simba and Kovu got up and started walking again. "Simba, there's something I would like to know,"said Kovu. "What's that?"asked Simba.

"Why did you kill Scar?"

"Kovu, I never wanted to kill Scar. He was my uncle but he was a bad lion."

"How was Scar killed?"

"He was killed by his hate."

"I don't understand."

"Scar hard a darkness inside his heart and soul. It was filled with hatred. Scar couldn't escape his hate and in the end, it destroyed him."

"I never knew that. Why did he have so much hate?"

"He always wanted to be King and the only way he could be King was to get his brother, my Father out of the way."

"How did he do that?"

"He killed him; tossed him over a gorge wall. I was only a cub when he did that. I felt guilty for what happened and Scar piled that guilt on me. He said that if I wasn't in the gorge when the wildebeest were stampeding, my Father would still be alive. Scar had me run away from the Pridelands so wouldn't get in trouble and I did. He took over the throne and let the hyenas take over the Pridelands. The herds moved on and the water dried up and my family almost died."

"That was all because of Scar?"

"Yes."

"I didn't know Scar was such a killer."

"Your Mother just thinks that the land rightfully belongs to Scar but she doesn't understand. Scar only wanted the throne for power. He didn't care about the family, only the position of king."

"So you didn't make us Outsider's."

"I had to because Zira went to drastic measures and threatened my family just to get what she wanted; descendants with Scar's blood. Razi, is my other daughter. Zira threatened to kill her if she didn't marry Nuka or Malakai. I let Zira take Razi with her but she had to banished from the Pridelands and she couldn't kill Razi."

"Wow. I didn't know my Mother was that vicious."

"You are unfortunately surrounded by a family full of hate."

"Scar was a killer. Do you think I am a killer?"

"You are not a killer. Your only a killer if you wish to kill."

"I don't know. If Scar had a darkness, maybe I have a darkness inside me too." Simba arrived with Kovu in the area where the fire was. "Fire is a killer unlike you. Sometimes what left behind can grow better than the generation before if given the chance." Simba placed his paw onto the dust in the ground and then lifted it out of the soot revealing a small plant beneath. "This land has already started to regrow after the fire. You still have a chance to grow Kovu. Don't let your Mother hold you back." "Who says his Mother is holding him back,"said a voice from far away. Out of every piece of fog, came the Outsiders. Simba and Kovu were surrounded. "Why Simba, we meet again,"said Zira as she appeared from the shadows with her children behind her. "Simba snarled at the Outsiders while Kovu just stood there in shock. He didn't think they were going to ambush; that was never in the original plan. "Well done Kovu. This worked out perfectly; just like we had always planned it." "No!"cried Kovu. "Betrayer!"cried Simba.

"I didn't have anything to do with this!"

"Liar" "Attack," cried Zira. All of the Outsiders attacked Simba. "NO,"cried Kovu. Simba struggled alone against the Outsiders but could barely keep them off of his body. Kovu couldn't stand back and watch Simba be killed by his family. It was time Kovu stepped in and step in he did. Kovu tried to pull Vitani off of Simba but she kicked him off. Kovu landed on the ground with his head slammed into a rock. Simba finally managed to throw the Outsiders off of him and run far enough to escape but he wasn't out of the woods yet. Simba was chased to an edge of a cliff that led into the empty riverbed. "He's trapped now,"said Zira. The Outsider's ran down whatever ledge they could find and went after Simba again. Simba ran as fast as he could to the dam of logs, which held the water back. Kovu finally got up from the ground and saw nobody around him. He looked down into the riverbed and saw Simba being chased by the Outsiders. Kovu followed them along the top of the riverbed trying to find the easiest way to save Simba. Simba finally reached the dam and began to climb up the logs. The Outsiders all stopped at the bottom and looked up at Simba as he climbed. Kovu was at the top of the logs and looked down at Simba. "Hang on Simba!"called Kovu. "What are you waiting for Kovu? Get him! Do it now!"shouted Zira. Kovu ran away from the logs as Simba continued to climb. "I'll get him for you Mother!"cried Nuka as he climbed up the logs to get to Simba. Nuka quickly gained ground on Simba. "Mother! I'm gonna get him! I'm doing it just for you!" Simba struggled up the logs with Nuka right behind him. Simba started to climb onto some loose logs and was losing balance quickly. Nuka seized the opportunity and grabbed Simba's back leg. Nuka sunk his claw in deep and Simba tried to shake him off. "This is my moment to impress my Mother and take the spotlight. I'll have glory, I'll have revenge, "I'll have-"Nuka mumbled until the log beneath him snapped. Nika let go of Simba's leg and rolled down the logs. The lose log he stood on rolled down behind him and crushed his body in between two other logs. "NOOOOO!"Zira cried. Simba continued to climb until he reached the top and jumped off of the dam and onto the land above releasing some loose logs from beneath his paws. The logs rolled down the hill and crushed Nuka deeper into the logs. Simba escaped with minor bruises to his legs and body and limped back to Pride Rock. Kovu had gone into the riverbed when Simba climbed out. He leapt onto the dam and started moving all of the logs looking for Nuka. Zira climbed up to where Kovu was and knocked him off of the logs. Zira dug into the dam and moved every log she could out of the way just to get to Nuka. Zira finally found Nuka buried under several logs as he struggled for air. Zira looked down at her son in shock. Nuka looked up and saw Zira looking down on him. "I'm sorry Mother. I tried but failed,"mumbled Nuka. Zira felt sorry for Nuka. "It's not your fault Nuka,"she said as she reached for his head and consoled him. With a final breath, Nuka past away in Zira's paw. Zira set Nuka's head down gently on the log and climbed down with her head hanging low. Vitani understood what had happened and looked at her Mother. "My brother,"she said quietly.

Meanwhile, Simba slowly returned to the Pridelands limping in pain. Kiara, along with Timon, Pumbaa, and Zazu, saw Simba walking slowly through the Pridelands and knew he was hurt. "Father! He's hurt. Zazu go get help!"demanded Kiara. "At once! Of course your highness,"said Zazu. Kiara ran over to her Father with Timon riding on Pumbaa behind her. Kiara reached Simba and saw he was hurting. "Father, what happened?"she asked. "Simba, are you alright?"asked Timon. "Kovu...ambush,"said Simba as he collapsed to the ground. He groaned in pain and began to breathe heavily. Kiara noticed a small gash on Simba's back leg and thought Kovu did it. "No, "Kiara said in shock. Pumbaa picked Simba's upper body up with his snout and carried him back to Pride Rock with Kiara and Timon following behind. Nala waited in front of Pride Rock with Rafiki standing next to her. She immediately rushed to Simba's side and nuzzled him. Pumbaa laid Simba on the ground gently. Rafiki approached Simba and quickly cracked a gourd open above his head. He took the juice and rubbed it on his fingers then onto Simba's lips. Simba slowly licked the juice off of his lips. Rafiki put some more juice onto his lips and watched as Simba became more alert but still in pain. "This juice will help you heal and feel more relaxed,"said Rafiki. Simba sat up slowly and then tried to stand. "Daddy, don't stand until you have your full strength,"said Kiara. "I can stand Kiara,"said Simba. Nala stood behind Simba as he climbed up Pride Rock. It took all of Simba's energy just to climb up Pride Rock. He collapsed when he reached the top of Pride Rock but crawled to the middle and laid down. Rafiki continued to apply the juice to Simba's lips to help him gain his strength back.

Back in the riverbed, Zira sat at the bottom of the dam with the other Outsiders behind her. "Scar, please watch over my poor Nuka. He needs his Father now more than ever. Nuka you didn't fail. Don't feel guilty for letting Simba escape. I love my son,"said Zira as she looked up at the heavens. Zira then turned all of her hate over to Kovu. "You betrayer!"she exclaimed. Zira smacked Kovu in the face. Kovu roared in pain and then looked up at Zira. Zira noticed the Scar over his eye in the same place Scar had his. "Look at what you have done,"Zira snapped. "I didn't do anything,"said Kovu.

"That's right and in doing so you have betrayed your pride. You have betrayed Scar!"

"I don't want anything to do with him!"

"Don't fight your guilt. You brother is dead because of you."

"That's not true."

"You killed Nuka!"

"NO!" Kovu ran out of the river bed trying to escape the wrath of his Mother. "Let him run. He can't escape it. This is the last time I will ever let Simba hurt me. He has taken our land, killed Scar, killed Nuka and corrupted Kovu ,"said Zira. All of the Outsiders listened to what Zira had to say and hung onto every word that came out of her mouth. "Listen, Simba is injured and weak. Now is the perfect time for us to attack and take revenge for everything he has done to us. We will take his entire kingdom by force!" All of the Outsiders roared in excitement.

At Pride Rock, Rafiki continued to feed Simba the gourd juice until there was nothing left in the shell. "Let the juice kick into your system and you will be feeling better in no time,"said Rafiki then left Pride Rock and went back to his tree. "Simba, can you tell us what happened?"asked Nala. "I went for a walk with Kovu after he woke up. We were talking for some time and then we walked into the grasslands where the fire took place. I was then attacked by the Outsiders at every corner. Zira said it was a part of the plan. I was chased into the riverbed and had to climb up the dam just to get out. Her son Nuka attacked my back leg as I climbed up. I finally escaped out of the riverbed and returned here. It was all an ambush,"explained Simba. Kiara didn't want to believe it. "Sire, are you alright?"asked Zazu as he flew in from above. "All of the animals gathered around Pride Rock when they heard you were injured and heard your whole story." "Daddy, it can't be true,"said Kiara. "Sire, Kovu approaches Pride Rock,"said Zazu. Kovu slowly walked past all of the animals as they opened a path for the enemy to enter. "Kovu!"Kiara shouted. Simba jumped up and leapt in front of Kiara as he roared at her. Simba stood at the tip of Pride Rock and watched Kovu come in. Kovu stood at the bottom of Pride Rock and looked up at Simba. "What are you doing here?"asked Simba. "Simba I wanted to-"said Kovu.

"You have a lot of guts to show up here."

"I had nothing to with-"

"You don't belong here."

"I ask for your forgiveness." "Daddy, will you please listen to him,"begged Kiara. "Silence daughter! Kovu, when you came here you asked for judgement and I pass it now,"said Simba. Kiara was nervous and anxiously awaited her Father's answer. "Exile!"Simba exclaimed. "NO!"Kiara cried out. Kiara tried to approach her Father but the lionesses cut off every escape route she had. The animals began to chase Kovu out of the Pridelands. Kovu ran as far as he could but the animals continued to attack him until he was out of the Pridelands completely. When he was gone, the animals all returned to their normal routines and left the scene. The lionesses finally moved out of the way for Kiara to get through. "Father please reconsider,"she said. "I don't want you to go anywhere without an escort from now on,"said Simba.

"No it's not like that."

"He used you to get to me."

"No he loves me."

"You were nothing more in his life than a pawn in Zira's plan."

"No, he loved me for me."

"He only wanted you because you are my daughter."

"That's not true!"

"I don't want to leaving Pride Rock. You must stay where I can keep an eye on you away from him."

"You don't know him."

"I know him enough to know that he will follow in Scar's paw prints and I must follow in my Father's."

"You will never be Mufasa!" Simba turned around to look at Kiara but she already ran into the den crying. Kiara laid in the den with tears dripping down her eyes. With a crack of light shining through a crevice in Pride Rock, Kiara found a sense of hope. She moved the rocks and created an escape hole. Kiara ran out of Pride Rock through the escape hole and went to look for Kovu. She looked by the water hole but found no Kovu. Kiara looked in the water and saw her reflection but half of it was dark. It was just like Rafiki said, "When you have your other, you have, bliss, happiness, and a whole world but when you are apart, your life is a half life; there is no happiness. Half of you will fell and empty feeling because you will be missing something." Kiara looked in the crevice in the gorge but didn't find Kovu. Kiara finally gave up her search and just wandered away from the Pridelands. Kiara sat alone in the night on a hill and cried. Out of nowhere, Kovu appeared. "Kiara,"he called. Kiara turned around and saw Kovu standing there. She was ecstatic and ran over to him. They nuzzled each other in the stillness of the night. "I have to show you something,"he said. Kovu brought Kiara to the area by the riverbed where Simba had taken him. Kovu found the small sapling Simba had shown him. "Your Father showed me this,"said Kovu. "Why did he do that?"asked Kiara.

"He doesn't think I have a dark side or he didn't until my family attacked."

"He knows you don't have a darkness Kovu. I just don't think he is ready to admit it."

"I wasn't a part of that ambush today."

"Kovu, what really happened today?

"I was supposed to kill you Father. After I rescued you from the fire, I was supposed to find time alone with Simba and kill him. After I stayed with your family, I realized that I didn't want to kill him just because my Mother wanted it. I didn't want to be a part of her plan because..."

"Why."

"Because I love you."

"I love you too and I knew something was wrong when my Father said you were betraying us."

"I never meant to hurt you or your family Kiara. I was just a pawn in Zira's plan."

"Don't worry. What's done is done and we can't do anything to change it."

"C'mon, let's get out of here." Kovu ran as far as he could and Kiara followed behind. Kovu ran farther and farther into the distance. He ran as far away from the Pridelands as he could. He finally stopped by a water hole and Kiara collapsed on top of him. They looked at their reflections in the water. They saw half of themselves combined in with each other. "Hey look, we are one,"said Kovu. Kiara realized something. "Kovu why are they even fighting in the first place?"she asked.

"My Mother has so much anger against your family."

"It's like their fighting against themselves."

"What do you mean?"

"Outsiders are no different than Pridelanders. We are fighting against our own kind. Were all lions."

"Your right."

"We are one. There is no difference between us. We should get back home and warn the families."

"I don't know. I like this place a lot."

"Really?"

"Yeah. You know what? We should run away together and start a pride all our own."

"Kovu, we have to go back." "She's right Kovu,"said a voice from the distance. Out of the shadows appeared Razi with Malakai limping behind. Rafiki soon appeared after. "Razi, Malakai, what are you guys doing here?"asked Kovu. "Trying to escape Mother's fury. When you were gone, Mother put us all on a training spree. Malakai and I went against her and she attacked Malakai out of anger. She slashed him in the neck so much that it scratched his vocal cords. They still work but Malakai can only speak softly. Mother left him in the Outlands in a pile of blood when you went with Simba. That's when they were preparing for the ambush. I stayed with Malakai in the Outlands until he felt strong enough to move. We wandered into the grasslands and ended up here. Rafiki found us and tried to heal Malakai to the best of his ability,"explained Razi. "Rafiki use gourd juice to heal wounds and stop bleeding and had Malakai eat a passion fruit to heal all inside injuries. It will soak up all of blood from the wounds. A bit of spice goes on the top of the wound to help the new skin grow in quickly. Malakai should be healed by morning but will still be sore. His vocal cords will heal but his voice will always be effected,"said Rafiki. "Kovu, you have to help the families,"said Malakai.

"What do I have to do?"asked Kovu.

"I don't know. Mother would never listen to me maybe she will listen to you"

"What does that have anything to do with it?"

"You can tell her the truth and she won't tune you out."

"Are you sure?"

"Nothing in life is ever for sure. Follow your heart Kovu."

"I will. Let's go back, all of us." Everyone went back to the Pridelands while the sun was still up.

Simba couldn't handle the tension and left Pride Rock as the sun was setting. He went around to the back of Pride Rock and called to his Father. "Father, I had no choice but to exile Kovu and now Kiara hates me,"he said. Mufasa's ghost slowly appeared in the clouds above. "Simba, your family has split apart,"said Mufasa.

"No, how did that happen?"

"You have exiled Kovu, someone Kiara truly loved. He was a part of your family."

"He was being judged. I didn't consider him a member of the family. I was going to but after the ambush I-"

"Kovu had nothing to do with the ambush. He was trying to help save you."

"But...Zira said it was just like they had planned."

"You will find out the truth on your own."

"I know now that I will never be like you. Kiara was right."

"You don't have to walk in my paw prints. Be yourself."

"How can I now?"

"Bring your family back together. If you let them drift any farther apart, you will continue to break the circle of life."

"I will do the best I can Father." Mufasa bowed his head and then the rain began to pour. Mufasa's ghost disappeared with the rain as it poured harder and harder. "I have to apologize to Kiara for my actions." Simba went inside the den and found Timon and Pumbaa inside sleeping. "Hey guys, have you seen Kiara?"asked Simba. Timon slowly woke up and tried to focus his vision. "Hey Simba. When did you get here?"asked Timon feeling groggy.

"I just got here. Have you guys seen Kiara?"

"I haven't seen Kiara."

"Do you know where she is?"

"She isn't here."

"Where is she?"

"I don't know."

"She's gone!"

"Yeah." "Sire! The Outsiders are on the attack!"cried Zazu. "Where are they Zazu?"asked Simba. "Their on the attack, heading here. It's war!"

"Zazu, go find Kiara. I'll assemble the lionesses. Move Now!" Timon woke Pumbaa up and followed they followed Simba outside the den. Zazu flew across the Pridelands until he found Kiara and Kovu with Razi, Malakai, and Rafiki. "Kiara!"exclaimed Zazu. Zazu swooped down and landed in front of Kiara and Kovu. "Zazu, what's wrong?"asked Kiara.

"The Outsiders are on the attack. The prides are going to war. Your Father wants you at home." Kiara and Kovu looked at each other. "Kovu we have to get back there now and stop the fighting,"said Kiara. Razi put her paw on Kovu's shoulder. "You guys go on ahead. Malakai and I will stay behind with Rafiki and catch up later on,'she said. Kovu nodded at her and then went on with Kiara back to Pride Rock. Zira led the Outsiders to the dam and Simba led the Pridelanders to the same area. "It's over Simba! I have dreamed of nothing else for years,"said Zira. "This is your last chance Zira. Go home,"said Simba.

"I am home. This is where I belong."

"Go home Zira!"

"Attack!" The Outsiders and the Pridelanders began to fight. Kiara and Kovu ran faster and faster to the Pridelands. They finally reached the dam and saw the fight. Kiara and Kovu leapt across the logs to the other side of land. Zira had singled Simba out and they were about to fight each other. All other fights ceased. All eyes went to Simba and Zira as they circled each other. Zira lifted her paw up and Simba did the same. They were about to hit each other but Kovu and Kiara jumped in the way. "Daddy, stop this nonsense now,"said Kiara. "Mother you will never hurt Kiara or Simba; not while I'm here to stop you. "Kiara what are you doing?"asked Simba. "I'm stopping this fight once and for all,"she said. "Kovu get out of the way!"ordered Zira. "I'd rather die than watch you fight for something as ridiculous as this,"said Kovu. "Kiara this doesn't involve you,"said Simba. "A wise King once told me we are one. I didn't understand him then. Now I do,"said Kiara.

"They aren't us."

"How are they not. They are us."

"No they are not."

"What do you see in them that is so different?"

"But...They-"

"There are no differences between us." The rain began to let up and the sun started to shine. Simba looked at Kiara and smiled. Kiara nuzzled her Father and then Kovu. "Vitani, attack,"said Zira. "No Mother. Kiara's right, enough,"said Vitani.

"If you will not fight, then you shall die as well."

"Then so be it." All of the other Outsiders looked at Vitani standing up to Zira. "This has gone too far,"said a voice from the distance. It was Malakai with Razi standing behind him. "Malakai! I thought you were dead,"said Zira. "It looks like you didn't kill me completely,"said Malakai. "Zira, what is the point of all this fighting? You don't understand; everything doesn't have to end in violence,"said Razi. Malakai stumbled over to Simba and Kiara and stood next to them. "This ends now,"said Malakai. Razi joined Malakai followed by Vitani and the other Outsiders. "Where are all of you going? Get back here and fight!"ordered Zira. "Let it go Zira. It's time to put the past behind us,"said Simba. "I'll never let it go! You have hurt me too much Simba. Now you must suffer the wrath of me,"said Zira. The dam water in the dam started to overflow and move the logs. "This is for you Scar,"said Zira as she leapt to Simba but Kiara jumped in the way. Zira and Kiara rolled over the side of the riverbed, crashing into every rock. Kiara managed to slam her claw into the side of the wall and land on a small ledge but Zira fell over the edge and could barely hold on. "Kiara!"cried Simba. Simba began to climb down the side of the riverbed wall and tried to get to Kiara. "Hold on Kiara!"hollered Kovu. Nala looked over at the dam and saw that the water was becoming to strong and broke the dam. "Simba! The River!"cried Nala. Simba looked down and saw how fast the water was flowing. Simba knew he had to get to Kiara quickly. Zira struggled to hold onto the side. Kiara tried to help her but Zira was ignoring her. "Zira give me your paw. I'll help you up,"said Kiara. Zira tried to smack Kiara but missed and slipped further down the wall. "Zira please; I can save you,"pleaded Kiara again. Zira tried to smack Kiara again and completely slipped off of the edge this time. Zira fell into the river but tried to stay above the water. Zira couldn't even get her head out of the water. Zira ended up getting crushed by some of the logs going downstream and drowned. The water finally slowed down and Kiara looked for Zira but didn't see her anywhere. "Kiara,"said Simba on the ledge above Kiara. "Daddy, I tried to save her but I couldn't,"she said. Simba grabbed Kiara's paw and pulled her up to the ledge. They both climbed to the top of the riverbed and were greeted by everyone. "Kiara, your alright,"said Nala as she nuzzled her daughter. Kovu stood right behind Nala and was the next to greet Kiara. "Kiara,"said Kovu as he nuzzled her. "Kovu, I was wrong,"said Simba. "Simba, about the ambush I honestly had nothing to do with it,"said Kovu.

"No need for an apology. You do belong here." Kovu smiled at Simba and then Kiara nuzzled him again. "Let's go home. All of us are going home to the Pridelands,"said Simba as he led everyone to Pride Rock. While Nala got everyone settled in, Simba stood at the tip of Pride Rock. Simba heard Mufasa's ghost watching over him. "Well done my son,"he said. Simba looked up at the horizon and smiled as the wind blew his mane back.