Hay Y'all Okamibattleblock here and I am loving mass uploading! I feel like it is a effective way to give everyonea something to do while waiting for the next chapter. So with out a feathera do, her is chapter four.
" Almost got it!… and there you go!" Mshzuri said as he helped a mouse onto a tall rock. The mouse gave a thankfully squeak, cursing the lion cub to blushe a bit.
" There's no need for the thanks." Mshzuri bashfully said as he rubbed the back of his head. Mshzuri waved goodbye, as he trotted off to Pride Rock. It was about twilight and it felt like it was going to be a cold night, but what did you expect during the wet season. The flower wearing cub walked past Nyota Cliff when he heard loud shouting.
" Kion! It going to be a cold night an-"
" I slept throw colder nights! I shared a den with you and Kiara!"
Mshzuri didn't want to eavesdrop, but it was hard not to when it came to Kion and Simba's recent arguments.
It has been about a month since Kion formed the Lion Guard. Thanks to them it made protecting the Pride Lands easier on the king, but sadly the same can't be said for Kion's relationship with his family. While his and Nala's grow stronger, it became increasingly harder to find either Simba or Kiara with Kion without verabiling hersing each other. Since the day the guard was formed Kion basically moved out of the royal den and onto Nyota Cliff, and to everyone shock stopped calling Simba dad, or even father.
Mshzuri ducked into the grass, as he heard the king come down the hill with a look of desperate father. Mshzuri made sure the coast was clear before he came out of hiding. Mshzuri at Kion's silhouette at the top of the hill. I should go check on him, just to see if he's okay. Mshzuri though as he walked up the hill, But as he got closer it sounded like Kion was talking to himself.
" Was he as annoying when he was a cub. You worked with the hyenas! So he was a scaredy cat back then too, huh?" Kion chuckled.
Mshzuri was a little distrbed, it sound like he was having a conversation but no one was there. But Mshzuri noticed that Kion was smiling, and just the sight of his handsome smile made his heart flutter. It was no secret to Mshzuri that he was hopelessly in love with the princes. Sure Kion was younger but only by a year, plus if you put both next to each other Kion looked like the older one. But Mshzuri new that he's job was to continue the circle of life and him being being in love with another male won't help him complete it. But that doesn't mean he can't dream. Mshzuri took one last look at his crush before slipping away and stiping on a stick giving away his location.
" Mshzuri is that you?" Kion called, his voice a little jumpe.
" I.. Um.. Ya it's me." The lion admitted, as he trotted back up the hill his ears limp. " Look Kion. I just overheard you fight with the king, and I-" Mshzuri swallowed a lump down his throat as he looked into Kion's green and amber eyes, both looked very confused.
" I didn't mean to. It was just so loud, and I wanted to just see if you okay!?" Kion still looked very lost.
" I can see that everything is okay, and will be going now." Mshzuri nervously laughed before he started to turn back.
" I don't mind you listening in on my arguments." Kion assured. " I wouldn't mind the company." Kion suggested as a cold wind flew by casing the prince to shever. " Plus I could use some extra heat for tonight." He suggested with an innocent smile. Mshzuri couldn't move.
" Ki.. Kio. I wo..ould lo-"
" There you are Zuri!" Tiifu announced with a hint of urgency. " Sorry to interpret Kion-" Tiifu said politely as she bowed her head.
" It's fine Tiifu, no need to be so formal. " Kion assured as Tiifu lifted her head up.
" Oh okay it's just mother always said to respect the royal family anyway I can, and speaking of mother-" Tiffu brought her attention to her brother. " She wants you back at Pride Rock. It's really important."
" Ohhh." Mshzuri said, obviously disappointed. " Sorry Kion maybe next time."
" It's okay." Kion said as he let out a large yawn. " I think I can sleep through the cold, night!"
Mshzuri was about to walk away when an idea came to mind. " But I'll meet with you at sunrise!" Mshzuri called out to Kion,
" Sure, that would be great!" Kion let out another loud yawn. " It be better anyway. Night." Kion called back as he made his way to his tree, as Mshzuri heart broke into a million pieces.
" Come on Mshzuri! The sun almost down!" Tiifu called, as she was already some ways away.
" Ya, I'm coming!" Mshzuri shouted back. He took one last look at Kion sliout and with a sigh he gave a quite. " Good Night."
Mshzuri dragged behind his sister the whole way back towards Pride Rock. Whatever his mother wanted it had to involve the royal family, as why else would she be having a long conversation with Simba. Tiifu took to an early retreat and bided good night to her brother, leaving him alone at the bass of Pride Rock. Well almost.
" Hay Mshzuri!"
Mshzuri perked up as Kiara greeted him. " Hi Kiara. How are ya?" Mshzuri asked.
" I'm fine." Kiara answers. Her voice was gentle but still full of energy. " How about you? I heard you been around the Pride Lands helping out the similar animals.
" You have!?" Mshzuri rubbed the back of his head with his paw a little embarrassed. " I kind of, sort of hoped th-"
" Don't worry about Mshzuri, there's nothing wrong with what your doing. The Lion Guard been bessy with Mbaya, so the smiler animals need someone out to help I think what your doing kind cool." Kiara said the last part a bit shyly.
" Thanks. You know me. I just like helping other. Nothing more, nothing less."
" I guess that makes you the kindest in the Pride Lands." Kiara suggest as she let out a slight laugh, only adding to Mshzuri embarrassment.
" I don't know Kiara. I mean you would have to be pretty kind to. For being the future Queen and all."
" Your right but the the kindest Queen would need to find the kindest King, don't you think?" Kiara flashed Mshzuri a sheepish smile, and things became all to clear.
" Yaaa. Of course Kiara." Mshzuri choked out as he felt sweat starting to form.
" Gladed you agree. Tomorrow morning I was thinking about practicing a bit of hunting, and I could use a sparring partner, and Tiifu isn't exactly cut out for that kind of stuff. So maybe you want to join me?" Kiara looked at the ground, as her face emanated a bright red.
Talk about a rock and a hard place! He didn't want to turn down Kiara, she was his friends and didn't want to hurt her feelings or he'll feel bad about hurting them. But he had already made a promise with Kion, and if he broke it then… let's say the guard won't be happy campers.
" Kiara… I..I."
" He would love to Princess Kiara." A soft, soothing, and elegant voice answered for him. This belong to his adoptive mother Petit. She was about the same age of Nala, white tane fur much like her daughter and another lioness who use to be part of the pride.
" Now it's getting a little late, and you two will need all the energy you can get for hunting practice."
" Kiara!" Simba called loving from attop of Pride Rock.
" Coming daddy! Night Mshzuri!" Kiara said with a purr as she rubbed her head under his, cursing the cub to freeze at her touch. Kiara flashed him one last shy smile before heading up pride rock. Leaving mother and step son alone.
" hi mom." Mshzuri looked down to avoid Petit's face, but he could tell they were disapproving.
" Correct me if I misheard. But you won't going to refuse a date with the princess where you?" Her voice keep it's elegance but had a new and threatening edge to it.
" I.I..I had too! I already promised Kion I'll me-"
" What have I told you Mshzuri! You must thrown away those disgusting, and unnatural feelings you feel for the prince. Nothing will come of it and you will be disgraced both me and your sister. If my devil of sister haven't put it through the mud already." Petit spat out.
When Mshzuri found out he was gay, the frist animal he told was his mother, whice proved to be the worst mistake he would ever make. As that was the moment she gave him the first of many ' special lessons' behind Pride Rock, shaping him into the cub he was today.
" But… Mom! I just can-" Mshzuri was interpreted as he felt a swift paw slap him across the face, knocking his flower out behind his ear.
" Haven't I thought you to respect your mother! I won't let my family legacy be distorted by your twisted disease!" Petit barked hursley. Petit study her sons fearfully face and scoft at it.
"Follow me. I see you still have much to learn." She said harshly as she made her way behind Pride Rock. Mshzuri swallowed his pride as he let his tears fall and followed his mother, leaving the desmated flower broken on the ground.
Everything hurts. His head, his legs, just everything hurts. Mshzuri also felt cold. As his eyes opened to their blurry vision he could at least make out he was outside… and it was the early afternoon.
"Uggggg." Mshzuri groaned as he forced himself to get up. He rubbed everything he could senseable rub in his stat. I… have to get cleaned up if anyone saw me like this-
" By the Kings! What happened!?"
Mshzuri looked towards the sound as his whole world came crashing down. In front of him was the Lion Guard.
" Zuri?! What happened?!" Fuli asked, the worry dripping in her voice.
" I… got lost last night and um-"
" Fuli, Ono I want you two to look for any clues." Kion command dryly. " Me, Bunga, and Beshte. Will get Mshzuri to Rafiki."
" Alright Kion." Fuli said a little uneasy. She turned back to Mshzuri and gave him a light reassuring nuzzle careful not to push too hard.
" Come on Ono!"
" Alright! See you later and don't worry Mshzuri we'll find whoever did this." Ono said confidently as he and Fuli took off.
Start with Pride Rock. Mshzuri grumbled. He was about to limp away but he felt a large something lift him up. He looked around frantically and saw that Beshte eyes were much bigger close up.
" Don't worry Mshzuri. I'll carry ya."
" Onono it's fi-"
" You aren't walking Mszuri!" Kion shouted starinenly, as the lion cub could feel the angry gaze of the other. Mshzuri gave in.
" Alright. Thanks Beshte."
The young hippo fluttered his ears in apratiation. " No problem."
" Hummmm-" Rafiki rubbed his chin as he carefully inspected Mshzuri. Kion told Beshte and Bunga to keep watch while he kept watch on Mahzuri.
" I'll say. Your injuries are very serious young one." Mshzuri winched at what that could mean.
According to the mandrill, he's left eye was blandly brushed and he had to put an eye patch over it to heal. His body had cuts with various sizes but he was able to cover them up. But most of all there was a notable notice on the right ear. What was once a perfectly round, now had a gap in the outer rim.
" I suggest you take it easy for a bit. Now-" Rafiki brought his attention to Kion. " I will leave you two alone, but I ask you princes. Do not push him too hard." Rafiki whispered to Kion and left to two cubs alone. Mshzuri couldn't bear to face his friend in his current state. He remembered how Kion was when he had less evidence of what happened, but there was no way around this one.
" I'm sorry." Mashzuri said quietly.
He heard Kion walk over him, but was to scared to face him so he keep on looking between the branches. But to his surprise a bright red flower with yellow at the base before the steam drop into his view.
" Kion I-"
" Don't be sorry." There was a warm tone in Kion's voice that would make anyone's heart melt.
Mshzuri felt Kion's breath on his back and nearly jumped up when he felt his rough trong smooth over some of the larger cuts talking between each lick.
" Whoever did this to you will be sorry. You don't have to tell me now, but it would make it a lot simpler if you told me." Kion said calmly.
Mshzuri felt a tear slip past his eye. He wanted nothing more than anything to till everyone Kion. But there's a reason his mother acted so pleasantly around the royals. They trust her. Petit was one of queen Sarabi best friends so her ties with the royal family go back. At the end of the day he was still a rogue at heart. If a rogue lion, expressly a cub, accused a pride lion of a wrongdoing then there was no battle.
" But I get it if you need time to tell me. Just know I'll be there when you need help." Mshzuri felt cold once Kion gave his finally lick. " Stay here and rest alright." Kion commanded softly.
" Ya. Umm Kion. Ashante." Mshzuri said softly.
" No problem Mshzuri." With that Kion left the lion alone with his thoughts as he heard his friends leaving. Mshzuri waited till the sound of crunching grass fade. Slowly, he let a melancholy sleep over take him.
" Come on Zuri. I promise once we find water we'll rest for a bit." Another male cub said. This was a recurring dream Mshzuri often had. He was lost in what seemed to be a dessert with a brown lion cub who didn't look much older than him, maybe only two years older. He didn't know why but he felt safe around this cub.
It was a cold night in the desert. Judging by the slightly agitated cub in front of him they have been lost for sometime. Mahzuri could feel they have been walking for hours as the throbbing in his legs gave it away, it didn't help that his fur didn't repeal the cold. He could only take a few more steps before he fell to the sand. The other cub noticed and rushed to his side and tried to comfort him.
" Hay, hay. It gonna be fine. Just umm-" He started to mumble to himself. Mahzuri could only make out a " let's try this."
The other cub let out a deep breath and started to hum quietly.
?:Let's say you're lost in a flats , sure
You can give in to the dark or
You can trip a little light fantastic with me.
The lion's singing was nervous to start out. But Mshzuri smiled back at him as he felt some energy come back to him. Which helped easy up the others nervousness.
When you're alone in the dunes
Your choices just embrace the gloom
Or you can trip a little light fantastic with me!
Mshzuri started to get up, but was a little shaky in his knees. Thankfully, the older cub was able to save him before he fell back to the ground. With a smile he continued his song.
For if you hide under the covers
You might never see the day
But if a spark can start inside your heart
Then you can always find the way
So when life is getting dreary
Just pretend that you're a leerie
As you trip a little light fantastic with me
" Thanks um I don't think I know your name?" Mshzuri said sheepishly. But the other cub simply shrugged it off as he put at the stars.
" Come on. Let's go find a place to rest. It may be dark but just we just use the stars." He said joyfully as he ran up a sand dune.
" Hay wait! Just who are you?" Mshzuri shouted as he caught up to him.
The cub came face to face with Mshzuri with a wild sime. " You know who I am. All you have to do is be the leerie." The cub said lovingly as he nuzzled under his head. " Little Brother."
A shooken up Mshzuri awake as he looked around frantically. He was safe in Rafiki's tree. Everything up to that point was normal with that dream. I'm someone's little brother! But who? And where is he now, unless-"
" Thank the King's you're okay!" Mshzuri was snapped out of his thoughts as Kiara made her way up the tree and to him. " Fuli told me what happened and-"
" Kiara calm down." Mshzuri said as he tried to calm himself down. " I am breathing right? So there's nothing to worry about."
" I guess, but still those injures look painfully." Kiara pointed out as she walked around him studying each bruise and cut then his ruined face.
" Although I'll admit you look pretty dashing." Kiara said absentmindedly.
" What!"
Kiara realized what she said but stood firm with a bright red streak across her face . "I'm not saying that what happened to you is right! I… I just wish I could have helped you sooner. What Queen would I be if I can't help out a friend. " Kiara sadly said.
" Kiara. I-"
" You are right princess! A good queen would always help their subjects." Rafiki chimed in. He must have been gone for a few hours as he put down a heavily looking pile of fuites. Rafiki took a gourd and broke it in two, and scooped up some of its juices.
" No matter how small the problem is you must show your subject how much you care." Rafiki pointed at Kiara with his finger dipping with gourd juices. Kiara simple nodded uncomfortable. With a goofy smile he brought his attention to Mshzuri.
" Now hold still Mshzuri. This will only sting a little."
" Alright. I just be- acck!" Mshzuri howled as the might of five million bees stinging him at the same time coursed through his body. Rafiki was applying the gourd's substance to his cuts. It stuck to his fur so it still stung even after Rafiki's finger moved on. Mshzuri keeped a pained smile trying to keep any other loud cries constrained.
" Done. I must say. You are a strong one." Rafiki companted as he wiped his hand on nearby leaf.
" Yay. That just who I am." Mshzuri said unconvincingly.
As Rafiki was cleaned up, and Kiara checked on Mshzuri, a barely noticeable breeze flow the mandrile. Rafiki turned around and started to study Mshzuri from afar.
Rafiki shrugged his shoulders as he looked up at the sky," You certainly are a crazy dead lion my friend." and made his way to the cubs.
" Your majesty, unfortunately I must ask you to leave. We wouldn't want Zuri here to be overwhelmed. "
Kiara took an embarrassed look at Mshzuri and knew she was becoming a bit of a bother. "Just-" She carefully hugged the cub. " Just stay safe for me. Alright?"
" Don't worry I'll be here. Just if my mom asks for me. Tell her I was with you all morning."
Kiara looked back confused and was about to ask why, but was quickly interrupted.
" Please."
" Alright. But you better give me a reason later." Kiara scolded playfully, before running off.
Mshzuri sadly watched Kiara fad, and with a sigh tuned towards the mandrill. Who wore strange smile on his face. So my day just gets worse doesn't it?
Get worse it did. Once Kiara left Rafiki gave him a swift knock on the noggin with his staff, he asked, well more commanded him, to get him a mtu Fruit. " It's would help heal your eye faster" he said. Natural Mshzuri agreed and limped his way to Mementos Canyon to get the fruit. One good thing about the trip, was it gave him time re think his dream. Especially the song which he tried to remember. After all if he could remember the song maybe he'll remember his brother.
Mshzuri:So when life is getting dreary
Just pretend that you're- you're… you're-
Mshzuri tried to remember the last few words, but it always excapted him.
" Agg what's the point? If I can't even stand up for myself then what chance do I have to do anything. I can't remember anything, I can't protect myself from mother, I… I can't tell Kion how I feel. I'm basically useless." Mshzuri ranted sadly to himself. He came to the cliff side which overlooked a deep fall down to who knows where.A tree grew sideways so it trunk hovered above the gap, and below it single branch was a bright red fuite. But Mshzuri only stared down into the deep darkness.
" I was found all alone. Maybe he's died with who I guess would be my mom and dad. Maybe their having a good time up there." Mshzuri felt himself inch closer to the edge, as a half minded smile grew on his face.
" Maybe I should join them. " Mshzuri sense disappeared as he felt himself grow closer to the darkness. " Just like that. I'll be with my true family. At would only be a few seconds then-"
" Nononononononnnono No NO!" A high pitched voice squawk brought the lion to his senses as he saw Ono flapping frantically in front of him.
" Wa- What?" Mshzuri asked frantically as he tried to wrap his head around what was happening. All the sudden he felt a hard trug on his tail bring him back from the cliff.
" What do you think your doing?!" Fuli scolded.
" Ya! Only I can jump off cliffs!" Bunga argued with an emphasis on the 'I'.
" I don't think that helping too much little B."
" He's right Beshte!" Kion said, his voice was furryous. " In fact Bunga, why not show us how good you are!"
Bunga shrugged, obviously not getting what Kion was truly saying.
" Alright! Zuka Zam-" Bunga exatment was cut short as he felt Fuli push him back. " Ahh! What's the big deal!?"
" Kion!" Fuli said as she stepped in his way. "I get your mad, but that doesn't mean you can just tell Bunga to jump off a cliff!"
Mshzuri watched as Kion slowly made his way over to him ,ignoring Fuli. Mshzuri swallowed a large lump and quickly got up. " Kion please! It's not what it looked like! I didn't even know what I was doing!
" I don't know what is going on with you but it does not give you the right to take the easy way out!" Kion roared. Mshzuri knew he was just trying to help but it only made him feel worse.
" Your right." Was all Mshzuri said before he limped towards the tree.
" If your having trouble walking why are you even out here?" Ono asked blunty landing on Beshte's back.
" Rafiki asked me to get a mtu fruit for him."
" You mean the one hanging over the edge. Don't worry just sit back and watch good old Bunga take care of that for ya."
" NO!" Mshzuri shouted with a new found edge to it. " I really don't need help. I'll be just fine." he said as he started his slow walking across the tree truck, which crackled with each step.
" Don't be like that Zuri." Fuli pleads fell on deaf ears as he continued towards the red fruit.
I can do this. On my own. Mshzuri assured himself, blocking out all sounds including the crackle of the trank that grew louder below him.
" You really should come back!"
Crackle
Just push on Mshzuri!
Crackle
" Hapana! Mshzuri! It won't hold much for much longer!
Almost got it! Just a bit further- and with a quick swap of his paw he cut the stem quickly snached it before it fell into the deeps.
" I got it! I actually didn't it!" Mshzuri shouted with glee, but Kion and all but one the guard were unimpressed.
" Good! Now come ba-"
" Good job Mshzuri! I always believed in you" Bunga happily cheered as he jumped on the trunk to join him.
" Bunga!" Everyone shouted as a loud crackle was head.
" What!? It not li-" Bunga was interrupted as the weight on the tree was too much a large crack started to form between the base and the trunk.
" Bunga! Mshzuri! Move now!"
But it was too late. As the combined weight a badger and lion was too much for the old tree handle. Within a few seconds both Bunga and Mshzuri heard the pained calls of their names as they fell into the dark depths of Mementos.
" You can't be dead can you?" Mshzuri herd Bunga ask him, seemingly unfazed by the fall.
" I'm alive so that has to mean your alive! right?"
Mshzuri sense slowly came back to him, unlucky for him his hearing came back first. Everything hurt, but by now he was used to it. He winched a bit when Bunga begin to look for a pulse.
" Humm... Ahha! Mshzuri good news you'll heart is beating!"
Mshzuri coughed wildly as he slowly breathed in and out with each one sounding like a dying cat, which is what Mshzuri should be right now. He soon felt Bunga start to pat his back comfortingly to help clear his throat.
" Thanks- Bunga." Mshzuri coughed out as he blinked a few times to readjust his sight.
" No prob Zuri!" Bunga accidentally slapped Mshzuri's back hard casing him to let out a loud and painful cough.
"Now let's get you up and standing."
" No! Bunga wai- Aggggh!" Mshzuri roared in pain as Bunga's sharp claws stabbed into a reopen wound. Bunga instantly dropped the cub which caused another roar of pain.
" Ohh ahh, Sorry but that." Bunga said sheepishly.
" It's fine." Mshzuri panted out. He began to look around. They were stuck in between both cliffs sides which were too high to climb, even if Mshzuri could climb. Other then that it was either they go left or right.
" Okay Zuri! He's what we're going to do! We-"
" Going to leave me."
" What! Leave you!" Bunga started to laugh a little. " I get you'll still droopy from the fall, but-"
" Bunga! Do you honestly think I can move. I know you don't want to but you have to."
" No! Never! Not in a million years! Maybe there's someone around who can help us!"
" HEY! MY FRIEND AND I COULD USE SOME HELP HERE!" Bunga shouted at the top of his lungs, his voice echoing through the canyon.
" Bunga! Please use your brain and go." Mshzuri tried to reason but to no avail.
" Come oooon Zuri! You've known me long enough to know I never had a brain!" Bunga said quietly as if it was a secret, and continued his shouting.
" I'M FINE! BUT MY FRIEND IS HURT REALLY BAD! LIKE REALLY BAD! IF I'M HONEST HE'S PRETTY MUCH AN EYE SORE!"
" Thanks Bunga! Really helping right now."
" YOU'RE WELCOME! SO-"
" Alright! Just pip down will you!" A harsh but young voice called from a cliff nearby cliff top.
" Your lucky that I even bothered to help some Pride Landers!" A dark brown lion cub with a growing black tuft of hair jumped out of the shadows to reveal himself.
" Great!" Bunga exclaimed as he ran up and put his arm around the cubs neck. " I'm Bunga, and thhhhat is Zuri."
The brown scoffed at Bunga's greeting and removed himself from Bunga's grasp.
" Names Kovu." He said dryly, as he made his way to Mshzuri, who was about to introduce himself but was quickly stopped by Kovu
" Don't waste your energy. You'll need it if you want to get out of here alive. There's no saying what the hyanes, or even my pride, will do to trespassers. Especially after last time." He mumbled the last bit.
Kovu started to carefully inspect the broken cub. As Kovu circled him Mshzuri felt oldly safe around him.
" Good new, your live. But you won't be walking out of here without help and you'll probably won't be seeing out of that eye any more."
He must really be in bad shape if it hurt to drop his ears. Mshzuri let out a sad sigh as he turned his head away to let out a few tears.
" Thanks Kovy! " Bunga said whole heartedly. " What's out plan to get out of here."
" Our plan? My plan is to go home. I don't know or care what your plan is." Kovu agued back.
" What! You said you're going to help us!"
" Ya! I made sure he was going to live through the day. That was being generous, besides last time I helped a Pride Lander it don't go over so will." Much to Kovu dismay this sparked more interest in both Bunga and Mshzuri, although Bunga showed it more on his fur.
" See! You already helped a Pride Lander before! I'm sure the princess would just love it you helped one of her best friends."
" Buuuuungaaaaaa." Mshzuri softly said as he turned around to face the other two.
" The princess!? You mean Kiara!?" Kovu asked with a tiny bit of enthusiasm. Catching both Mshzuri and Bunga's attention.
" Duh! Who else would I be talking about. I mean Kion would also be happy to see Zuri safe and sound, buuuut he isn't the happiest cub right now."
Mshzuri looked up at Kovu who eyes looked with his. Something about his green eyes, and dark brown fur just seemed familiar to him. He could tell Kovu was thinking something similar to.
" Fine." Kovu grunted.
He made his way to Mshzuri and carefully hostered him onto his back. Mshzuri let out a few painfully grunts, but he'll take compared what could have happened if Bunga tried to carry him, either way he was glad to be out of that bloody puddle.
" Thanks." Mshzuri weekly said.
Kovu only gunted in response, as he lead them through out of the depths of Mementos.
It was hard to tell where they were. As the canyon was just the start of Momentos. Unknown to both of them Mementos was more then one deep canyon but also a large series of caves though the Outlands. Sure some led into the Pride Lands, but where to crowded to carry Mshzuri through. Both Kovu and Mshzuri we're hoping for a pretty calm journey, as not even Mbaya's clan dared to journey through Mementos, but Bunga just had to prove them wrong.
" So how do you know Kiara?"
" She got lost in the Outlands once." Kovu answered blandly and quickly.
" Really? Tell me all about it."
" She got lost. I found her. I took her back end of story."
" Alright. Ummm where do you live."
" Here in the Outlands." Mshzuri felt Kovu's tense up a little when he said that.
" Really!-" Bunga shouted, his voice echoing through the dark caves. " You live in this dumb!"
Mshzuri could tell this was a very touchy subject for Kovu, as he began to tense up even more. His breathing got louder as Bunga continued to insult the Outlands.
" I mean who would want to live here! It's a waste land!"
" Bunga." Mshzuri quietly warned.
" It's dryer here then the Pride Lands during the dry season. Even then we have water and food."
" Bungaaaa."
" Like who would choose to live out here!"
" Bung-aaaa" Mshzuri screamed as he felt himself fly through the air. Mshzuri slowly lifted himself up to see that Kovu was not happy.
" You think I wanted to live here!" Kovu growled, baring his teeth to the Badger.
"Ya! Even I know anyone can choose where to live." Bauga answer, unaware of the weight of the situation.
" Wrong! I didn't have a choice! You think I would choose to live in out here. Where everyone has to fight over a puddle. Where the only meal I get is a paw fully of termites!"
" Wait you have termites here too! I LOVE TERMITES! Uncle Timon says their slimy, but I think their more crunchy than anything." Bunga happily said, his mouth started to water.
Kovu growled loudly, knowing he wasn't getting through to Bunga.
" Stupid Pride Landers! You guys take everything. Even the sun is sacred to shine all the way out here." Kouv mumbled just loud anythough for Mshzuri to here.
Kovu coldly walked past Mshzuri his eyes fixed on the dark road ahide.
" Hay! What about Mshzuri!?"
" You take care of him! I'll lead you out, but I'm done holding the weight!"
" Gez, what's wrong with him?" Bunga whispered as he stared to wrap Mahzuri' paws around his shoulders, but quickly pulled away.
" I.. I can walk Bunga. Thank you though." Mshzuri grunted as he slowly but surely limped along.
" Alright, if you say so."
For some time only the echoing of footsteps, and the semi-audible rant coming for Kovu who was a few feet ahead. Mshzuri felt bad for Kovu, sure Banga is dense but that don't mean what Bunga said is okay. With a sigh Mshzuri thought of a way to make amends.
" Bunga, can you hang back for a bit? I want to talk to Kovu alone."
" Why not?" Bunga shuged. " You sure you can make it?"
" Ya, just sit tight." Mshzuri said, leaving the Badger to his own devices.
As Mshzuri got closer to the agitated lion cub he could hear the angry rant.
" I swear the day I take over the Pride Lands I'll-"
" I'll take it I'm not supposed to hear that."
Kovu's looked back a little bit shocked, but quickly scoffed at Mshzuri shy smile.
" What do you want Pride Lander?" Kouv asked harshly not really caring.
" I… Just. Wanted to say thank you, and I'm sorry for Bunga."
Kovu just grunted unconvincingly as he continued walking in the dark.
" What he said wasn't right. He's not the brightest so-"
" Just shut up!" Kouv barked. Mshzuri was about to say something when Kovu stopped in front of him. Three separate openings stood in front of them.
" Damn it!" Kouv cursed under his breath.
" What the matter?"
Kouv turned around to face Mshzuri.
" Nothing! I ju-"
" You got us lost didn't you!" Bunga shouted as he caught up with the two lions.
" Ugggggg! Would you be quite already. We are not lost!" Kouv shouted back with a low growl rumbling in his throat.
" Don't worry Kovy. Bunga the wise will get us out of- offf!" Bunga felt a claw swap agust his stomach as he was launched into the nearby wall.
" Bunga!" Mshzuri yelped with concern as he limped his way over to him.
" You okay?"
" Yaaa." Bunga said dizzyingly as stood up with smile help from Mshzuri. " I gotta say Kovy you have oooone heck of a swap."
Kovu growls grew louder as he inched closer to Bunga. Mshzuri knew that face Kovu had as it not to different when Kion gets angry. He also knew where all that anger could lead.
"Kouv wait!" Mshzuri stood tail between the two animals. " I swear Bunga didn't mean anything he said."
" I don't care if he meant any of it! He still said it."
" But that doesn't mean you can hurt him!"
Kovu growled dismissively as he jerked his head towards the ground, his claws still out. But Mshzuri took as a sign he was getting though, if only a bit.
" I get that what he said hurt you. I'm sure living in the outlands must be hard and you probably didn't have a choice."
" Ya I didn't! My family and I were forced by that truant you call a king."
" Whaaat!? Simba wou-"
" Bunga, please!" Mshzuri pleaded in a whisper, and thank the kings he understood his plea.
" I don't know what his majesty did, nor can I say I'm sorry for what he did. In the Pride Lands outlands are just seen as killers, but I can see that you don't belong here." Mshzuri said softly. Kovu finally let his guard down if only a little. Kovu then looked up to the lion cub.
Kovu and Mshzuri eyes locked. Mshzuri finally got a good look at Kovu's green eyes. Like Kion his shined but he's just seemed familiar. With the way Kouv's face changed slightly he must be thinking the same thing. But before he could say anything else Kovu tore his focus
" Whatever. You Pride Landers are to soft." Kovu scoffed as he went back to focus on which path to choose.
" It's too dark to see anything." Kovu grumbled just loud enough for Mshzuri to hear.
Mshzuri watched him solemnly inspect each opening in hopes to see which one leads outside. In his head Kovu's words echoed in his mind. He felt so sad for Kovu but he couldn't think of any way to cheer him up.
All you have to do is be the leerie.
Mshzuri dream echoed in his head. Be the leerie. Mshzuri repeated to himself. He took one last look at the frustrated cub and all of the sudden a determined feeling grew in Mshzuri.
Mshzuri:Let's say you're lost in a depths, sure
You can give in to the dark or
You can trip a little light fantastic with me.
Mahzuri started slowly but loud enough for both Kovu and Bunga to hear. Kovu looked confused but Bunga quickly grew attached to Mshzuri's song. He took Bunga's interested as a good sign to keep going.
When you're alone with your mind
Your choices just embrace the gloom
Or you can trip a little light fantastic with me.
" What are you doing?" Kovu asked with a mix of confusion and frustration.
Mshzuri just smiled and limped next to him.
" Just trying to find light that's all." Mshzuri joyfully said as he too began to study the cave.
Mshzuri looked tested each opening with his voice but all of them had the same amount of echo. But his chipped ear head his voice come back from a different direction sepret of the other openings. Mshzuri followed where his voice was the most quiet and just behind a rock sprill was a small pond that gleamed brightly with another smaller opening just big enough for all of them to fit.
" Guys over here!" He called cheerfully. Both Bunga and Kovu, well, Kovu was speechless Bunga was ecstatic.
" Unbungalivable! How did you know this was here Zuri?"
" Ya? How did you find it?" Kovu asked obviously a little suspeces.
Mshzuri only smiled. " Come on Kovu. There's a way out so let's just take it."
" Just because you found a secret entrance, doesn't mean it's a way out!" Kovu barked once more as he bared his teeth, his voice echoing into the dark tunnel,
Mshzuri continued to smile softly. " That my be so Kovu but-"
If you hide under the covers
You might never see the day
But if a spark can start inside your heart
Then you can always find the way!
So when life is getting dreary
Just pretend that you're a leerie
As you trip a little light fantastic with me!
Mshzuri sang as he started to lead the group through the passages. He could feel his song was working on Bunga, who was marching besides him gleefully. But he could tell Kovu was still mad about everything.
" Hay Mshzuri!? What's a leerie anyway?" Bunga asked as he started to hum the tune to himself.
" I honestly don't know. But if I had to guess, it's probably an animal that light things up."
" Ohhhh. Like a firefly!" Bunga said innocently.
" Ya I guess so!"
" What's that?" Kovu asked shyly, which was a surprise for him.
" You don't know what a firefly!?"
" No badgar I don't! Only buges around here are termites and beetles."
" Will there little bug that fly around and light up the place. Not to mention are quite the treat." Bunga said while rubbing his belly.
" We could really use those out here." Kovu admitted sadly. " It get darker than in here, and it gets pretty smogy with all the steam gassers down here."
Kovu stopped walking and looked at the grown. He mumbled something but neither pride lander knew what he said. But both Bunga and Mshzur knew he wasn't really mad at them, but just sad for himself. Mshzuri instantly limped his way over and rubbed his head under Kovu to cheer him up.
" What was that?" Kovu asked confused.
Mshzuri just smiled again and said " To help a friend " and moutoned for the two to follow him.
Now when you're stuck in the mist, sure
You can struggle and resist or
You can trip a little light fantastic with me
Now say you're lost in the word, well
You can stamp and scream out loud or
You can trip a little light fantastic with me
And when the fog comes rolling in, just
Keep your feet upon the path
Mustn't mope and frown or worst lie down
Don't let it be your epitaph
Mshzuri sang, and as he did the cave seemed to lighten up a bit. As Kouv started to walk closer with them. Even an uneasy smile started to form on Kovu's face.
" Zuka Zami! Guys look!" Bunga cheered as he pointed towards a shallow white light.
All three animals looked at each other gleefully and ran towards the exst. As burst of fresh air rushed paster their fur as they made it to above ground in the bain outland in the middle of the night.
" Maan! I guess it true! Time flies when you're having fun!" Bunga said cheerfully.
" I wouldn't say getting lost in a cave is fun Bunga." Kovu said with a little bounce in his voice.
" Ohh so you admit?! You did get us lost!"
" Yaya! I got lost." Kovu admitted. He then looked up to both Bunga and Mshzuri with his most sincere voice he could muster. " And I want to say I'm sorry. It's just the outlands are in short supply of nice animals."
Mshzuri and Bunga shared a pleasant look and went in to hug the outland lion, something Kovu never experienced before judging by his jumping reaction. Kovu felt like pulling away but something about Mshzuri soft fur intagling with his felt familiar, but Bunga's neutral stinch didn't help. Thankfully both pulled away soon on their own.
" Wh-"
" Don't say anything! Your welcome." Bunga bosted.
Mshzuri rolled his eyes as he taped Kovu shoulder with his. " Okay Kovu where to next."
Kovu smiled and pointed at a nearby cliff. " Up there is flat ridge rock, all we have to do is get through Bila Moyo Valley then it's an easy climb up."
" Than what are we waiting for! Let's go my fellow leeries!" Bunga careered as he marched forward. Mshzuri and Kovu exchanged a look as Kovu finally let out a small smile. Mshzuri moved next to him and together they followed Banga.
Mshzuri:So when life is getting scary, be your own illuminary
Who can shine the light for all the world to see
As you trip a little light fantastic with me
Bunga/Kovu:"A leerie loves the edge of night
Mshzuri: Though dim to him the world looks bright
Bunga/Kovu:He's got the gift of second sight"
"To trip a little light fantastic"
Mshzuri:"A leerie's job's to light the way"
Bunga/Kovu:"To tame the night and make it day"
Mshzuri:"We mimic the moon, yes that's our aim"
Bunga/Kovu:"For we're the keepers of the flame!
Mshzuri:And if you're deep inside a tunnel
When there is no end in sight
Well just carry on until the dawn
It's darkest right before the light
As you trip a little light fantastic
Won't you trip a little light fantastic
Come on, trip a little light fantastic with me
Bunga happlay lead the group through the darkness of Bila Moyo Valley. Judging by how high the moon was in the sky it was midnight so no one was awake, even so the outlanders rarely went to this part of the outlanders. Soon the group was face to face with a straight cliff side with small edges just big enough to stand on ,and to jump off.
" Just up this cliff and both of you will be back home. But-"
" Pride Lands here we come!" Bunga howled but befor he could dash away Kovu caught his back and softly pulled him back.
" Hay what's the hold up!?"
" I'm the hold up." Mshzuri softly said, but his voice didn't sound sad, it was more bitter sweat.
" There's no way I'm making up there. Not with my leg in its condition. It was already painfully enough to walk here.
" Himmm oh! I got it! Why don't we just carry you out!" Bunga suggested as he gave a knowing smile to Kovu. Mshzuri followed his eyes and found Kovu actually thinking about it.
" No Kovu you already done so mu-"
Kovu only shook his head. " It fine Zuri.-" Kovu ducked under the lion cub and once again hosted him onto his back "Besides I have to prove not all outlanders are savages." He said with a smirk. "Now! Let's get you all back home!" Kovu careered, as he felt a new aura surrounded him.
Kovu:Now if you're life is getting foggy
That's no reason to complain
There's so much in store, over this wall where the sun touches all!
Kovu sang as he carefully jumped from cliff to cliff with Bunga a few steps ahead of him, and Mshzuri carefully holding on to his back. A smile never leaving his face as his heart fluttered. Glad his dream song caught on.
Bunga:So when troubles are incessant
Kovu:Simply be more incandescent
Mshzuri:For your light comes with my lifetime guarantee
As you trip a little light fantastic
Bunga:Won't you trip a little light fantastic
Kovu:Come on, trip a little light fantastic!
All:With me!
All three sang out as Kovu hold an impressive note. They caught their breath as the late Pride Land air rushed into their lungs.
" wow!" Kovu said tiredly as he crouched down to let Bunga help Mshzur off. " That was- " Kovu couldn't even think of the right words, his mind was racing. Thankfully Bunga was there to complete his thought.
" It was Unbangalivale! We fell down a canyon, served, and journey through a dark cave! All in one day!"
" -and don't forget made we made a new friend." Mshzuri smiled towards Kovu, who sheepishly smiled back .
" Thanks Zuri and I'm sorry-" Kovu rubbed the back of his neck as he looked both in the eye. " Bunga I shouldn't have acted the way I did back in the caves. And I'm sorry for throwing you off when I did get angry Zuri."
" Hakuna Matata Kovy!" Bunga crooned as he threw his paws behind his head.
" Hakuna Mawhat?"
" Hakuna Matata. It means no worries." Mshzuri explained as he with a tiny hum. " And that goes the same for me. Ashante Kovu."
" Karibu Zuri"
" Mshzuri."
Kovu happy yet tired expression quickly changed into a shocked and confused face. " What?!"
" That my name, Zuri is just short for Mshzuri." Mshzuri explained. Kovu eyes started to dart all over Mshzuri as, he closely inspected him.
" Is something the matter Kovu?" Mshzuri question fell on defy ears as Kovu just keep circling him, seemingly getting happier.
" I..it can't be! But… you're right here. And you look grown so much, I guess it only made sense that I didn't recognize you. " Kovu rambled his breath coming out even harder and harder with each circle.
" Uuuuuum. Did you drop your brain when climbing?" Bunga asked with all seriousness.
" Kovu! Have we meet before?"
Kovu's hopefully face feel like a rock as Mshzuri question passed his eras. " You… don't know who I am?"
Mshzuri focused on everything about Kovu but nothing came to his mind. " I'm sorry but no nothing comes to mind."
Kovu slowly backed away as he seemed to fight back tears " I gett go, my prides probably worried sick. Especially my mother." Kovu got quieter and with out a look back jumped back down.
" Alright see ya! A come back one day!" Bunga joyfully shouted once again missing the mood of the current situation.
" Good bye." Was all Mshzuri could muster. Do I know him? Was all Mshzuri could think before a loud young roar was heard. Before he could turn back to see who made the noise, a heavy weight on top of him.
" Thank the Kings your both alive!" Kion cired. He's tears falling onto Mshzuri's fur as he dug his head under his chin. Mshzuri never seen Kion so vulnerable.
" Hay it's okay Kion. I'm fine, thanks to Bunga."
Kion dislodged himself from the lion under him and with watery eyes he ran up to Bunga and hugged him close.
" Oww I'm sorry Kion I didn't want to worry you."
" It's okay.. Just don't EVER do something like that again! Both of you!"
Bunga gave Kion a pat on the back as Mshzuri joined in the hug. " We Pormise "
A few moments passed as the friends enjoyed the closeness of each other before pulling away.
" Hay why are you the only one looking for us." Bunga asked as a yawn escaped his mouth.
Kion wiped away his tears as he began to compose himself. " They all just assumed the worst. I expected as much from Simba and Kiara, but never Uno, Beshte, and Fuli. So me an- I took up the search myself. "
" Wait! Even Uncle Timon and Uncle Pumbaa! Ohh won't I be a surprise!" Bunga shouted mischievously, as he ran towards Hakuna Matata falls.
" You must be tired." Kion said softly. Mshzuri looked him in his mixed eyes. Bangs hung from them like bats in a cave.
"Me! You been searching all night."
" Ya, but my friends matter more to me than me."
Mshzuri felt heat rush to cheeks. " Thanks Kion, but for your information you matter to me." A cold wind rushed through the Pride Lands casing a slight shiver out of Kion. Mshzuri smiled as he placed his body next to his to share his heat.
" And if your up to it, then I think you would need a stargazing buddie for such a cold night."
Kion smiled back as he looked up towards the stars which seemed to twinkle much brighter than usual. " I don't mind the company. Besides the cold never bothered me when I'm with you. "
Mshzuri and Kion made their way towards Nyota Cliff, as another cold wind below. Mshzuri felt genuinely happy. What his mother would do to him was the furthest thing from his mind as he stood next to Kion. Even if he's feelings for him had to go unacquainted for, it was enough to be his friends. But Kovu also lingered in his mind, as he couldn't shake the feeling he did recognize him from somewhere. But for now, all that mattered was he found a light in his life, and nothing would take it away.
To my surprise this had the a few amount off changes. So the one song that is spreed though the chapter is " Trip A Little Light Fantastic" from Mary Poppins Returns. If you want to play the song along you have to find the cut version, as it have cut out like a good four minutesof the song. Anyway please review, as that would help me so much. See y'all next time!
