This story just keeps getting more and more attention. Thanks so much guys, it means a lot. Especially since I've been slaving over it sometimes, either mentally or for real.

Chapter 20

"The Harvest Festival: Part 1"

I felt a breeze whilst in my deep sleep, something that pricked at my mind and caught my attention. Slowly blinking my eyes open, and after letting them adjust, I could see just why. Miri was standing in the doorway to the room, she had a smile and she raised her paw and gestured for me to follow.

Though that was easier said than done, since Niru had pretty adequately tucked me against herself. I just mentally crossed my fingers and slowly moved away from her, thankfully she seemed to be a heavy sleeper, and I hopped out from in between them, and carefully jumped to the floor. Once entering the main room, Miri was once again at the front doorway, beckoning for me to come. I raised my brow but obliged her, and slowly crept my way out.

It was a full moon tonight, which glinted off the oasis down the paths, and made it feel really hard to hide. I expected a multitude of guards out, but I heard a voice to my right reassure me, "Don't worry cub. They only patrol outside the walls at night."

I looked at Miri and she gestured again for me to follow. She took me all the way down to the oasis, before sitting down. I looked around wearily, feeling like at any moment I'd be caught and get in trouble, but sighing I took a seat next to her. We sat in silence for what felt like forever, I watched Miri's tail in the water, it didn't react to her presence at all. It was honestly mystifying to be near her now, but finally she spoke as she glanced down at me, "I see you've met my sister."

I nodded, looking at her curiously and asked the burning question on my mind, "Why didn't you tell me? The whole story? Not just that you had a sister, but that you left because you fell in love with someone?"

She widened her eyes at me, and averted her gaze, "It's all been just to keep you safe Daniel. That's really all it is…"

I huffed, "Wouldn't it help keep me safe, knowing everything?"

"Yes but…" she started, "I hadn't seen my sister in years. I didn't know if she was trustworthy, however I've been watching her with you and… I'm very proud of her. She's a wonderful lioness."

I felt a bit guilty, "Do you not feel angry that I didn't tell her about you? That I knew you and that you're…"

She shook her head quickly, laying down so as to be closer to my level, "Never angry. In fact I appreciate how much you're trying to keep my little sister safe." She said nuzzling me lightly.

I nodded, but she continued quickly, "However I still think you will need her help. You can't do everything alone Daniel…"

"I know…" I expressed worriedly. "I wish you'd have told me that everyone here was just as nice… That everyone here would feel just like back home."

She frowned and nudged me, "How come?"

I growled lightly, "I wouldn't feel obligated to stay behind and help. I'd have made a run for it by now…"

She giggled, "Assuming you could make it all the way, I know you'd come back anyway." Her smile turned downcast, "Though Daniel, nobody would fault you for leaving. Even convincing my sister to help, I bet you'd be home by the end of the day…"

I shook my head wildly, I couldn't at this point. I had let myself become slightly attached, stupid idea, but it was true, "I always run. I can't do it again. And it won't even fix anything… I'm not running this time." I steeled my gaze and looked back at her.

She nuzzled me gently with a laugh, and looked at me in the eyes with what felt like some pride. She sighed and shook her head, "That's my cub… I'm still worried for you. But… so proud," she smiled happily.

It was then that I remembered, and my ears perked up as I pulled back, "Oh!" I put on a sly smile and poked her muzzle, "Who was it that you fell in love with Miri? Hmm? A dashing rogue? A pridelander?" I said, egging her on.

She blushed wildly and scowled, "That's not important-"

I covered her maw with my paw, "Nu-uh you gotta tell me! Come on…" I whined.

She closed her eyes with her still red face, and turned her head away from me. "It's a very long story Daniel, and I haven't got the time right now."

"Aww…" I groaned, flopping back into the sand, staring up at her, "Will you tell me next time?"

She giggled and nuzzled me relentlessly against the sand, I was surprised at how tangible her form felt as her whiskers even tickled my stomach, "Haha, st-stop it!" I said through my laughs.

She pulled back and licked my face, which thankfully left no saliva behind, then she tilted her head, "I will tell you. Sooner rather than later. Deal?"

I stood right back up, holding my paw out excitedly, "Deal!"

She playfully rolled her eyes and took my paw, shaking it twice before her tail began to wisp away into the night. She smiled and ruffled the top of my head, "I love you kiddo." She said sweetly.

I nodded, "Love you, tell dad I said hello!" She nodded and crossed her heart before completely disappearing into the inky night sky. I smiled up at the stars for a moment. Sitting down and taking a deep breath as I thought about what she said.

Was it really a mistake to keep Niru and Makazi in the dark? I know they'd more than likely help me, but it felt like this wasn't their fight. One of them is a soldier, and the other a healer, but I wanted neither of them to get hurt… They've both been good to me, when they didn't have to. If only I could make Shelyra disappear, then Niru would be queen and this would all be over.

My eyes widened at that thought, would I really be okay with killing Shelyra if it ever came to it? As far as I know she hasn't done anything that deplorable. She isn't a psychopath like Zira is, so she has that going for her. She's also a mother, even if she is a bad one. But there is just something about her that sends a chill down my spine. I can't quite place it.

"Ajabu?" I turned swiftly as I heard a yawn, seeing Niru looking at me with a tilted head, "You scared me," she said, stopping in front of me and sitting as she put a paw on her chest.

She rubbed the sleep from her eyes, "If you were thirsty you should have asked me to come with you sweetie. I panicked when I noticed you were gone…"

I nodded, "Sorry Niru… I didn't want to wake you."

She smiled, leaning down and nuzzling me gently, "You know that I'm always here for you cub. I don't care how silly what you wake me up is for, I've always got an ear for you. Okay?"

"Mhm," I replied sleepily.

I yawned again and leaned against her muzzle, her voice was so soft and comforting it put me to sleep quickly. She hummed, "Well if that's sorted, let's get you back to bed little one."

She carried me carefully back to the warmth of the small home, and into the comfort of the soft bed. She tucked me in closer to herself, between her paws and laying her head above my body. It would've been impossible to get away from her without disturbance this time. I would've laughed at her for her overprotectiveness, but more than anything it made me sleep better, as she purred softly and it lulled me back to sleep.

"Where am I?!"

.

..

…

Silence was all that Kiara could hear after she yelled out. Her entire head was covered in a sack, and she couldn't even tell if it was daylight or not. She had just woken up recently and at this point was ready to rip someone to shreds. The last thing she remembered was her brother telling her goodbye, and her father leaving her to get escorted out. But of course now she had to go and get kidnapped as well! 'Oh joy,' Kiara thought with a growl.

Her paws were bound, not together, but they were attached to some sort of wooden pole from what she could tell. The floor underneath her was dirt, she knew that much. And since she'd gotten here she'd only heard the occasional rustling and rummaging from someone, though they seemed far away themselves. "Let me go!" Kiara yelled again, to a reigning silence.

She grumbled, laying down finally as she had been yelling for what felt like hours. She sighed as she rested her head on her paws. Kiara actually had an abundance of energy that she couldn't use, she wasn't allowed to use any when she was captured and seemingly unconscious. Who knew where she was? She had a guess, one she assumed to be the most obvious culprit. "Zira…" Kiara sneered.

Of course that rogue queen would've done everything in her power to acquire a bargaining chip in the midst of the combat. And that tyrant Shelyra was probably in on it as well! What exactly were they intending? Her brother was to be sacrificed for that sick queen's selfish desires. And she was to be enslaved, for what? Kiara knew her mother, if she was alright, she would be far too devastated to fight for her.

Kiara held in a few tears, what if her little brother had already been killed? Murdered? What if it was all a trap and her mother and father were gone too? The thought made Kiara instantly begin thrashing against her binds once again, but the attempt was futile. The most the small lioness could do was scream, growl, and kick her feet like she was throwing a tantrum.

Finally, amidst the despair, Kiara heard something. Pawsteps, they were a ways away but her hearing could make it out. "Hey! Get me out! I'll rip you apart if I can!" She realized that those words were probably a bad idea.

The pawsteps became closer again, so close they sounded nearby, and she called out again, "Yeah you! You dumb-"

Kiara hadn't got to finish her sentence as she felt another paw connect with her maw, the lioness flying back to the dirt nearly knocking her breath out. Kiara didn't stay down for long, instantly getting back up with a growl, "Wow, aren't you brave! Bullying a bound, blind cub!"

She felt a paw on her head again, and expected another blow. But to her intrigue the sack was ripped from her head. Color and light flooded Kiara's eyes as she squinted, adjusting quickly to the sight that met her, it was nothing she had ever imagined. She was in a thatch lined hut, but she was clearly underground somewhere. Light streamed in from outside the tunnel but she couldn't see anywhere. She looked at her assailant, who was not a lioness at all. The sight that met her was that of a cheetah, clearly a female adult, her fur was a dark cream and her spots blended quite well with it. She had a deep scowl with blue eyes, and a scar crossed the bridge of her nose.

Kiara had no idea what to make of this, but in her stupor, something wooden was shoved against her feet. The cheetah noticed her gawking and growled, putting her paw on Kiara's head and shoving it down into the bowl of water she brought. Kiara pulled her head out and gasped for breath, glancing up at the cheetah again in surprise, to which she only scoffed, "Drink it." She commanded harshly with a loud growl. She sounded young, but not nice in the slightest.

Kiara couldn't deny she was extremely thirsty, and though she hated her attitude, she followed instruction nonetheless. She drank in incredibly awkward and tense silence, as the cheetah only stared at her. Finally the cheetah stepped forward and harshly pushed Kiara away from the dish, "You're done."

Kiara fell back onto her rump and rolled over herself, quickly recovering, "What's your deal? What's a cheetah gain out of capturing me like this?"

She didn't get an answer as the cheetah was too busy dumping the bowl out. When the cheetah eyed her, Kiara felt like she was the target of pure rage, which was still contained by something. "I mean, really." Kiara began, "If you're looking to trade something with my parents, they're a bit busy right now."

Still she was met with silence as the cheetah circled her and harshly tugged on the binds, making sure each one was properly tightened and secured. "Who do you work for? Zira? Shelyra? You're all disgusting for this." She mocked, trying to gain a reaction.

The cheetah seemed satisfied as she picked up the sack, and Kiara growled as she didn't want it pulled over her again. When the cheetah's paws came close with it intending to cover her, she lunged for her paws and snapped her jaw, but the cheetah didn't seem phased at all as her reflexes were quicker. The cheetah's brow furrowed and she snarled, smacking Kiara back into the dirt for a second time. "Try it again, I'll put something in your mouth and we'll see how you like it then, filthy pridelander."

Kiara grunted and didn't make any attempts as the sack was shoved over her head again. "So you do have a grudge against my pride! How nice of you to take it out on a cub!" Kiara dripped with sarcasm.

She was awarded no more interaction as the cheetah seemingly grabbed her things and left the room. Making Kiara's rage grow even more, I mean, of course it made no sense to tell those you've captured all about your master plan. She just wished everyone liked to talk as much as Shelyra seemed to. But not the cheetah, 'She must have a serious grudge… sheesh.' Kiara thought idly as she slowly rubbed her maw to ease the pain of being swatted around.

'How am I getting out of this one…' She lamented to herself. She was hungry, no longer thirsty thankfully….

White lions, outcasts, her own pride… And now a cheetah? Who might not even be alone in this? Just how many different sides were there!? Kiara clutched the dirt between her paws as she growled.

This was going to be a problem.

I yawned, once again finding myself alone in the vacant comfy bed by myself. I was glad there wasn't a sun spot on this bed, I might never leave if there was. I groaned though, I shouldn't get used to this luxury, who knows what was in store for me for now. I yawned, standing and stretching like a cat, blinking sleep out of my eyes.

Carefully making my way off the bed with my still slightly sore paw, I slowly peaked my head around and into the main room. I could already smell something amazing, and I hadn't even gotten near the kitchen area. But there was Niru, humming gently as she worked around the kitchen to make food. Curiously I noticed Makazi sitting at the table, so he must not have guard duty today. They were chatting idly, and realizing I had to start my day somehow, I yawned as I left the room. Grabbing the attention of Makazi rather quickly, "Good morning Ajabu."

I smiled, "Morning."

Niru stopped her humming and turned, "There's my little wanderer. Morning sweetie."

I blushed at her remembering last night, but shook my head as I sat down at the foot of the table. "I just like fresh air sometimes." I said, trying lightly to defend myself.

She just giggled and continued on, "Aren't you excited today?"

I tilted my head, "Should I be? What's today?"

She shook her head, "Silly, it's the Harvest Festival! It only comes once a year!" She said joyfully while throwing in more herbs and spices.

I shrugged, "I don't know what that is…"

Makazi raised a brow and looked at me in curiosity, "Come to think of it. How old are you, cub?"

I froze at that question, I honestly had no clue how old I was as a lion, Kiara was a bit more than double my size. But I was able to eat solid food like meat so clearly not too young, I don't know where that would put me. A growing look of concern was passing over both of the adults, "Um, I think I'm ten months old?"

They looked at me suspiciously, but both smiled anyway and nodded. Then a look of apprehension crossed Niru's face as she gasped, "Oh my gosh! It's your first Harvest Festival!" She nearly squealed.

She abandoned the food momentarily to come over to me, nuzzling my face, "Oh you'll just love it Abu, it's so pretty!"

I giggled, "Okay okay I believe you!" I said, continuing to laugh at her whiskers tickling me, "What are we harvesting?"

Makazi huffed a laugh, "Wow he's really never heard of it at all."

Niru licked me, "I don't want to ruin the surprise! You'll just have to wait." She said gently booping my nose.

I giggled again, I didn't know if it was instincts or what not, but Niru was so joyful it was hard not to be so yourself. "Is there good food?" I asked.

"Oh just the best there is!" She continued to nuzzle me with her whiskers.

I couldn't help the laughter from escaping me, "I can't wait! It sounds fun!"

She smirked at my laughter, nuzzling me even harder until I was on my stomach, and the tickling was too much for my poor stomach. I laughed uncontrollably for ages, "St-Stop!" I said through my laughs.

Niru hummed, "Oh? Little cub, you misunderstand your position!" She said as she began to tickle me mercilessly until I could barely breathe. For a moment she sounded like Nala, and a memory flashed before me.

"Stop!" I begged through laughing tears, "Momma stop it!" I blurted out.

My breath really caught in my throat then, as Niru retracted her maw finally and stared at me with wide eyes. I had really done it now, instincts and memories of Nala must've taken over. But she wasn't… Nala…

I caught my breath finally and looked up at Niru whose face was going through a range of emotions, I hummed, "I-I meant to say Niru… sorry. You just reminded me of…her." I sighed sadly to myself. Niru wasn't very quick at recovery it seemed, I quickly made my way into the dirt room, hiding around the corner. My heartbeat finally slowed.

Peaking around the corner, Niru was only just now recovering, but she seemed to be overjoyed yet sad at the same time. That would definitely be a problem wouldn't it… It took Makazi to finally break her out of it completely, "Niru honey, breakfast is-"

"Oh of course!" Niru said, snapping back to it as she ran to make sure everything was cooking nicely.

It was a little while later and I had calmed myself by drawing. I didn't know why I had said that, only that it came out of my mouth before I could even think. I blame the childishness that comes from being in my younger body, it was certainly jarring sometimes… But having it potentially ruin my attempts of keeping them clean of my story, it annoyed me slightly. Niru called me for breakfast, and though it felt somewhat awkward for me, the other two acted as if nothing had happened thankfully. I ate in relative silence, only talking to complement Niru for breakfast. It was meat again, but she'd done something to make it sweeter than usual, and it had a smoky flavor. It was always so refreshing to eat her food.

Once we were finished eating, Makazi went to clean everything up. Niru helped me down from the table, and I was meaning to go back to drawing for the time being, "We'll join the festival in a little bit." Niru said.

I turned and nodded, and she grew a sympathetic look as she leaned down and nuzzled me again, "Remember cub, I've always got an ear. Okay?" She reminded me.

I slowly nodded at the offer, then left for the side room. Though I didn't really feel like drawing, I more so ended up sulking about missing my family and wondering how I would fix everything all by myself. However, I couldn't think of one. Shocker right?

It must've been a half hour or so, with multiple checks by Niru, she was definitely worried about me but I appreciated the space. It was when I heard a growl from the living room, that my hair stood on end, was Shelyra back? I carefully peaked my head around the corner and was met with an even more confusing sight.

Niru was growling at another white lion who had walked into their house. He was holding his paws up defensively, "Hey hey! I'm sorry if this is a bad time, just-"

"Just what?!" Niru asked angrily. This was the first time I might've seen her actually angry instead of fake angry. She must've known this lion. He wasn't the largest lion, and he didn't have the most muscles, but he was definitely older as his mane was long and braided. He was white with patches of older grayer fur, and he wore a couple of blue sleeves along his front legs, I had no clue why. His eyes were green and he seemed sort of slow. Maybe due to old age.

The lion shook his head, and frowned, "Niru honey, I just… I wanted come by and apologize-"

Niru growled as she got in his face, Makazi scowled with a raised eyebrow but clearly wasn't very worried about Niru being safe. Maybe the old lion wasn't a threat at all. Niru snarled at him, "Why, because it's the Harvest Festival you finally decided to be a part of my life? What's the real reason?"

He sighed sadly and looked down at the ground, "I've just… been getting lonely lately, and thinking on things. I regret it, Niru… I regret myself back than so much… And I-I thought-"

Niru scoffed in his face, "You thought just because of the day it is, that'd I'd be feeling generous enough to forgive a worthless father like you? Why are you in my house?"

My eyes widened but I listened, the lion actually had tears in his eyes now, "I know I'm worthless, I agree Niru…" He laid down, showing his submission, and lowering his head as much as possible, "Please Niru… I've changed, I've tried so hard… I just want my little lioness back. Please."

Niru's expression faltered away from a scowl for a minute, but she averted her gaze, "And how exactly have you changed?" she said through grit teeth.

He whimpered, "I left, for a year… Doing some dumb mission for your mother-"

Niru snarled, and he hesitated yet continued onward, "I was by myself on that mission and I had a lot of time to myself. I-I don't want to die alone knowing nobody left loved me… I want to be around for my grandcub and-"

Niru got up in his face again, growling louder than she had ever done so before, enough to make me take a step back myself, "There's no chance in the nine realms you're getting near either of my cubs! Consider your apology denied." She said threateningly. It didn't take much guesswork to imagine what she meant when she said either of her cubs. Her maternal instincts were in overdrive, and that still meant that I was in trouble of having to face those feelings she had…

The lion's eyes widened, and he looked around, spotting me as I was fully watching from the open doorway, "You… already have one?" He expressed through a few tears.

Niru glanced where he was looking, giving me a surprised and worried look, then she quickly blocked his view of me, getting into a pouncing stance. "You've caused enough problems. I've made my own family, and the last thing my cubs are ever going to be near is a heartless evil bastard. Like you, Milele." She said venomously what I assumed to be his name.

Makazi stepped in between the two of them, glaring down at the lion, "I think it's better that you leave."

Milele slowly but surely rose to his feet, being very careful about his actions. He glanced again over at me, which Niru quickly growled at him for, "If you can't change the past, then you will never be part of my family again." She said finally.

Niru turned from him and walked over to me, giving me a sympathetic look as she grabbed my scruff in her maw and began to take me to their bedroom. Makazi was herding the heartbroken looking lion out of the house, to which he was being obedient about even as he looked back at me and Niru. When we were in the bedroom Niru jumped up into the bed and deposited me in her forearms, "I'm sorry you had to see any of that," she said with a sad smile as she nuzzled my face again.

She retracted her face and sighed with closed eyes, "Okay, you're a smart little cub and I know you're wondering. So what's your first question?"

I whined and nudged her face with my muzzle, "Miri you don't have to talk about it… I won't be annoying and ask anything."

She smiled, "You're not annoying Abu, I promise. I just don't want to keep any secrets from you, secrets don't build trust."

Okay well when she puts it that way now I feel incredibly guilty about everything I've kept from telling her… I hummed, "Okay… So he's your father, and I bet he did some awful things along with your mother. There's not much to ask about if I'm being honest, Niru."

She laughed a bit at that, I could see she had something on her mind but she didn't bring it up, "Yes, I guess you're right.

Makazi entered the room and smirked, "Let's enjoy our day. What do you guys think?"

Niru nodded and looked down at me curiously, I stood up, "Yeah, I wanna see what all of this is about."

Niru giggled, "Alright then, festival here we come!" She said before picking me up by the scruff.

Leaving the den, the moment we got outside I could see everything was different. Some kite-like things flew in the distance, I could smell all sorts of foods, and everyone we passed by seemed genuinely happier than usual. Makazi looked down at me, "Well, it's your first festival little one. What would you like to do? Go to the entertainment area where they're hosting all the tournaments and shows."

Niru placed me on the ground, and nudged be under herself, "Or the oasis where a bunch of other cubs like to get together and play?" She asked as we continued to walk.

"Or the food stalls. They smell really good…" Makazi said, his mouth almost watering.

Niru shoulder bumped him, "Hey you just ate, you glutton."

He laughed sheepishly, "You always get to over indulge at a festival! That's the best part."

The thing that stood out amongst those options intrigued me as my head perked up, "I would like to see these shows or whatever. Sounds fun."

Makazi nodded, and bent down, "Well let's get this show going huh?" He picked me up and placed me on his back. It was a bit odd at first but I managed to easily stay steady, and it allowed me to see everything.

As we made it through the crowds of lions, we eventually made it to a sort of town square area. I could hear music of some kind. There was dozens of lions crowded around looking towards the host of the event. He was a white lion, but interestingly he wore a hat and a monocle, as well as what looked like a bowtie on his neck. I just decided to roll with it instead of questioning. The cubs and families were giggling and looking forward in intrigue at some show, but I couldn't see. Even as I stood up and put my paws near the top of Makazi's head, I could only barely get a glimpse of the music performance. Makazi huffed a laugh, "Careful up there."

"I don't know if letting him up there is the best idea…" Niru muttered to Makazi.

Makazi scoffed, "My father did it with me all the time, cubs love it!"

The crowd seemed to part just enough for me to see. The show on the small stage was of a single white lion, with an assortment of rather odd looking things that seemed to be instruments. Drums, some sort of string instrument, shakers, lots of them. He was tapping, pawing, and shaking things in rhythm to make his own song. He even used his tail and back legs occasionally to strike an instrument or strum it a certain way. It was genuinely a treat to watch, I couldn't imagine how hard being a one man band as a lion could be. I gaped in awe at the performance.

We eventually found a spot where I didn't have to stand on Makazi's head to see, and my caretakers could watch the show as well. The more surprising part, was that they weren't nearly as enamored as I was, they must've seen this type of performance before. Niru giggled at my face of awe multiple times. Then when a lioness came up to stand next to the performing lion, and she began singing a beautiful song in harmony with his music, I was completely awestruck. I hadn't seen anything close to this in forever, and now a lion was doing it.

After that ended, we stayed to watch multiple more shows. There was a tail wrestling contest, a glass breaking with your roar contest, a bite strength contest that confirmed how much I don't want to fight one of these lions… There was even a magic show. And I don't ever want to think about that lion contortionist again, it's not natural to be able to lick your own back while your appendages are pretzels. I shuddered at the memory of it, even though it happened not long ago.

Niru looked down at me on her side just as the current show ended, "Are you feeling hungry or thirsty? Want to do something else now Abu?

I was about to say yes and nod my head as I stood and stretched, but my thoughts were immediately cut out as the announcer started, "And now, welcome our lovely trio: The Firewalkers!"

I stared curiously as two lionesses and a lion came onto stage, they had headdresses on and bands around each of their paws. I wondered what they were going to do, but as they each brought out a baton my eyes immediately lit up, 'There is no way they were going to fire dance. They're lions!' I told myself.

Multiple lions lined the stage with drums, and began to beat them rhythmically as they lit the batons over a brazier. And I ate my words quickly as the trio began to dance, twirling their fire batons expertly around their four appendages. Throwing them up and catching them, spinning and moving to the music in perfect harmony. To say I was awestruck before, was an understatement to the emotions I felt now.

The male lion led their performance, he even did the fire breath. My mind was completely blown. When it came to an end, and they all threw their batons in harmony, jumping to catch them in their mouth as they landed in formation, I couldn't believe it. I only snapped out of my stupor to cheer. Not only was it one one of the best displays of fire dancing I'd ever seen, but it was done by a lion…

It also reminded me of how much I used to love doing it. Makazi nudged me gently, "Glad we stayed for one more."

Niru giggled, "Your jaw is on the floor dear."

I didn't even have any words to respond to them. I looked down at the ground and thought to myself for a few moments. Everything I loved to do as a human, why were lions able to replicate it? And if that was the case, did I ever really want to go back to being human? I suddenly laughed at myself in my head, 'I think I crossed that road when I was adopted by the King and Queen of the pridelands…'

Niru seemed worried, "Are you too hot sweetie?" She almost seemed like she was about to freak out, as she gained a look as if she was the worst caretaker in the world, "Abu?"

I laughed, "I'm okay Niru. The shows were fun."

She sighed in relief as she put a paw on her chest, "Oh, good!"

Makazi stood up and stretched himself, "Though we should probably still refresh ourselves. What do you guys think?"

I nodded as did Niru as she picked me up by the scruff, "Niru I was just sitting for a long while, let me walk." I said with more of a whine then intended.

Her eyes widened, and she set me down gently as Makazi nuzzled her as he noticed her worry, "He won't get lost in the crowd, I promise."

We made our way out of the center of town, to a small stream that passed into the oasis. Along the stream were multiple food stalls, each looking tastier than the next. We had our fill of water from the stream, Niru hummed as she saw me drinking, "Abu honey don't lean so far in, I don't want you to get taken by the stream."

I continued to drink normally, until she forcefully pulled me back a bit, "Please?" She asked, looking at me patiently with what looked like a tear or two in her eyes. I finally sighed and nodded slowly and drank in a safer way.

"I'm fine Niru…" I said idly with a hint of annoyance.

She nodded, "Y-Yes of course." She averted her gaze and looked around as we finished. We finally decided on a food stall, and Niru's eyes widened as she realized, "I forgot my pouch with my sarafu," She looked back the way we came, "It'll just be one second. Why don't you two find a place to sit?"

Makazi nodded and gestured with his head for me to follow, and I obliged as we made our way to a soft patch of grass beneath a tree. I stretched like a cat… well, normally I guess, then laid my body out. Makazi did something similar laying nearby. There was a while of calm peace, I was forgetting about all my worries as the gentle breeze washed through me. I wished it could always be like this, what I wouldn't give to be relaxing in the shade with my family, my sister making fun of me at my side. I shook my head before I inevitably had emotions take over.

Makazi eventually broke the silence, "Little one," I opened one eye to him. He sighed, "You'll have to excuse Niru sometimes. Our cub is on the way and she's very emotional sometimes."

I sighed, "I'm sorry. I'm not trying to be rude."

He just smirked and gently nudged me, "Hey you're a smart cub. And you and I both know she's worrying just a bit too much, right? It wouldn't be fair of me to be upset with you."

I slowly nodded, and he ruffled my head with his paw, "Just know she's doing it out of love, not to upset you."

I blushed and stayed silent for a moment, "Thanks Makazi."

"Any time, tiny." He tried ruffling my hair again but I dodged and pounced on his paw.

"Not tiny!" I said defiantly.

"Oho we've got a little warrior cub on our hands!"

We heard footsteps approaching as Niru giggled, "What in the world are you two doing?"

We both looked her way as I was currently gnawing on one of his paws. Niru giggled as she set down three plates of food, and quickly I scurried over to try it. It was smoked meat covered in some sort of sauce and served with what looked to be rice. After trying it, the sauce seemed to be almost sweet, it was great. "Thank you Niru." I smiled at her.

She leaned down and nuzzled me, "Of course little one. It's a special day." She said as she looked up and shared a thought with Makazi. I continued to eat leisurely. The Nchi Kavu really did know how to have a festival, it felt more human here than lion sometimes.

Kiara was doing the only thing she could do. Rhythmically tapping while counting until she couldn't count anymore. She was beyond bored, and at least the simple act of counting was giving her brain something to process. "Twelve thousand nine hundred and fifty four…"

She heard something metal slam for a distance away, but close enough to make the cub stop with intrigue. She smirked and began shouting her counting of numbers, "Twelve thousand nine hundred and fifty five!"

"Twelve thousand nine-"

"Shut it, pride filth." The familiar voice told her again with a sneer.

Kiara perked up, "Oh lovely if it isn't my best friend! Not by choice, but I'll take what I can get!"

The cheetah pulled the mask off of her. Her glare was evident but she seemed calmer than the first time she came by. "Drink." She said simply again.

Kiara bowed downward and sipped it up graciously, going faster this time so as to not get pushed away. When she was done the cheetah scoffed and pulled it away, "So what's your name?"

She was met with silence as the cheetah checked her bindings once again, "Because if you don't tell me I'm just gonna start calling you Spot. Or should it be Grumpface? You can call me Kia, Spotface, I don't mind." Kiara hummed with a shoulder shrug.

The cheetah did say something of intrigue this time, "A prisoner doesn't get the luxury of individuality."

Kiara scoffed, "Are you talking about me, or yourself?"

The cheetah pulled tightly on her paw binds, causing her to wince, "Whichever one gets you to shut up."

Kiara laughed, "Whatever Spotface, keep slaving away to whichever queen you follow. Imagine what you could do if you were independent."

The cheetah rolled her eyes, "First on the agenda would be to cut the princesses tongue out."

Kiara laughed, "I like this game. First on my agenda would be to stop getting captured every couple days…"

The cheetah stayed silent as Kiara thought to herself, "My little brother, he worked so hard to save me. I'm sort of glad that you haven't killed me yet or something."

The cheetah raised a brow, "What are you going on about?"

Kiara looked up into the eyes of the cheetah, a burning rage deep within her features, and with an emotional stare she said; "Because it means I still have a chance to make you pay. And it won't be pretty." The cheetah wordlessly exited the room after that. Kiara noticed that she didn't put the cover over her head, which she was thankful for.

It was multiple days later when Kiara woke. Roused awake by the cheetah who unceremoniously threw water on her. Kiara awoke with a gasp and looked around frantically before her eyes met the cheetah. With a hum of curiosity, the cheetah answered the question she hadn't yet asked, "Our leader has returned and wishes to speak to you. Get up."

Kiara was ecstatic honestly, the first time she'd get to leave this tiny hole in the wall. As the cheetah unbound her legs but kept a leash around her neck, she was excited to finally walk. Until they put the cover over her head once again. "Really Spotface?"

She wasn't given any notice as she was pulled forward by the cheetah. She felt herself walking out of the dirt tunnels, and she began to feel grass again, and she could hear running water. Far more than she expected to. She was led through a camp, and as she heard multiple conversations which ended abruptly as she passed through, she could only gauge that she wasn't captured by just a lone cheetah.

She was led for what felt like ages, until her paws finally padded against stone, and she hummed, "Quite the place you've got Spotface."

The cheetah growled, "If you say anything stupid like that in front of her, you're going to lose your tongue princess."

Kiara decided to listen for now as their echoed paws reverberated across the floor. They passed down a hallway, only stopping for the cheetah to present her to what sounded like guards of some kind. They entered a room and the large doors that had creaked open shut behind them with a bang. Kiara was lifted and placed onto a pedestal of some kind, "I have brought the young princess, as you have asked." The cheetah said in a nicer tone than she'd ever used with Kiara.

The cover was removed from her head and Kiara's eyes adjusted to the light. It was a cave, but lining the walls were braziers lit with fire, and trophies hung on the wall and floor everywhere she looked. In the center of the cave was a large pillow, which had this so-called leader. Kiara's eyes widened in surprise, it was a white lioness, she had a large scar across her chest, and was wearing a necklace made of claws and small horns. Her ears were pierced with claws as well.

Kiara stared dumbfounded, another white lion? Was she different from the ones who took Daniel? She wondered.

The leader spoke, "Thank you, Duma."

The cheetah bowed respectfully as she stood next to her, "Of course, Zanui. It was my pleasure."

Something screamed in Kiara's head forcing her to remember. Where had she heard that name before? She looked at her again, white lion, Zanui… Kiara's mind froze for a moment. Was it really her?

It resembled her so sharply there was no other explanation.

This was Zanui, Shelyra's sister.

.

.

END

You know, just having an outline for events to happen doesn't give you an accurate presentation once you start writing it. I though I knew how many words it'd be, but it's always wrong. (7,176) Here I am thinking it would only be a 1 part.

You guys reviewed the heck out of last chapter. I don't think I can reply to every single one, but just know your review literally make my day, thank you guys so much!

Just got to say, the funniest request I've ever gotten for a new chapter goes to Luis Felipe. My man literally just posted "20"... I won't lie I laughed like hell just seeing the number 20 and nothing else, I don't know if my humor is broken or what. But y'know, here's that chapter 20 for you.

other then that, Greenegonenuts: Thanks man, your reviews mean a lot. I'm glad to be in your top 3!

Fl1y1ngD0gg0: Eh it's a cartoon world, I get to make my own rules! Also Daniel is short for a human as well so yes.

A Random Comment: I love reading theories. Of course I won't spoil nothing, but it's so fun to read theories of your own stories. And Daniel blames himself why? Maybe intrusive thoughts.

SilverLochan: Best human in TLK story? Wow that's a big title to hold... I think lots of other stories definitely have their merit as well. Thanks for the confidence boost though!

MysteryWriter175: Isn't everyone's inner voice just the worst? I know mine can be.

L0RD3N and PlagueDoctor, always appreciate it. Thanks my friends.

I'll see you guys next time. Which will be tomorrow when I upload the next chapter to my new story Avery's Broken Peace. Which is a thing if anyone is interested.