Hey guys... there's really not much I can say to you except I'm sorry for the wait.
I really wanted to try and get this chapter posted by the end of 2020, but it was held up due to a majority of things. To start with, chapter went through a huge change which I ended up having to scrap almost the whole thing and come up with a new a new plan for it. Then taking care of baby who was getting to that age of testing his boundaries, and other personal reasons that were just piling on top of each other once again. The absolute worst of it all was that my great grandmother had gotten sick with you know what.
It looked like we were gonna lose her then, and I just couldn't muster up the energy to keep writing. Even after she managed to fully recover from it, it was still a struggle to get back into the swing of things because I think all of us knew, deep down, that she still wasn't going to stay with us for much longer. She passed on this May, and I don't remember much of that whole weekend except crying…though as I think about it now, I'm sure holding on for almost five full months after kicking COVID's butt, at nearly 100 years of age no less, must have taken a lot of strength.
If nothing else, I try to find comfort that she was the one who decided it was time, all on her own terms rather than being taken by this awful virus.
That's all I'll say for now, it's been way too long since I posted a new chapter as it is. Though I will let you know that I did take some time to go back and fix up the previous chapters before getting this one up. Here's hoping I managed to fix them all up, but please let me know if I missed anything.
And one last thing before I have you go, let me take a quick moment to reply to and thank those who left a comment for chapter 18...
00RaiserGundam: I'm so glad you like the story hun, and thank you so much for that. I have fixed up the chapters for Buziba and his pack, and I changed up the species of monkey in the first chapter too. I triple checked that it did indeed live at least somewhere in Africa, and I'll take it a lesson that thorough research is a writers best friend.
Oh my gosh, Toonami…wow, what a wave of nostalgia. That was something I always looked forward to watching all throughout my afterschool days.
erica. phoenix 16: You're very welcome, and thank you so, so much for reading!
BlackRaptor1: Thank you so much, one of the biggest compliments I can get is hearing that someone like the story good enough to binge read, so it makes me incredibly happy that you like the story so much. I try to do my best with it, so it's nice to know that readers are able to enjoy it.
Your story sounds like a great read, too. Having the army as part of the LK story sounds promising, and I'd love to see how it goes when I have a moment to read it.
Guest: Thank you so much for reading hun, though I know it must not be easy with how slow I've been getting these chapters out X(. You're so sweet! Hopefully one day I will make one. Writing books has always been a dream
Mr. Almond Brown: Thank you for being so sweet and patient! Though while I feel reassured to hear that you'd still love it regardless of how long it took me to update, I'm still very sorry that it took as long as it did.
Mmm, I share your sentiment. And don't worry, Tilly and her goons are gonna find themselves wishing that they had picked a different profession.
Guest: Thank you so much, I'm so glad that you're enjoying the story!
Paul Crew: He's been a lucky duck so far in this story, so let's hope it stays that way for just a little bit longer. And holy dang, 87,000 words?! How? I can't even imagine trying to write that much without getting dizzy. O_O
Steelcode: It's always so awesome to see your comments hun, I'm always able feel your enthusiasm X3
And that was me, I made the cover :3 It took me tons of reference work for the LK characters and a lot of time coloring, but I'm pretty proud of how it turned out for my first finished cover(But I'm very sorry to say I'm not taking on requests.)
I-Love-Trunks1: You're so sweet hun, thank you for your review. And thank you so much for taking the time to read my story; I'll do my best to get more chapters written up.
Interstate2011: I'm sure you've seen these things in shows that involve animal rescue and such, they're those long rods with that wire loop at the end that helps keep aggressive animals a safe distance away from the person that caught them. I'm actually not sure if they're called something else, but when I looked it up, Ketch-All was the name I saw.
Also, thank you so much for spotting all the errors for me, hun. It's very helpful, and as always, it's much appreciated!
Dave Bennett: That may be my fault. Before his encounter with Buziba, I was writing with the intention that he would quiet his voice as low as possible so they wouldn't hear him hold a conversation with Nala. And when Ryan tried to free her and the pups, they would only catch the tail end or be too distracted to notice. I'm sure it wouldn't easy to pay attention to much of anything when there's a meerkat and a warthog running around causing havoc X) But maybe I should go back and make little mentions of what was I intending, just so it's not as confusing.
Also, that story sounds like a good read, I'll definitely remember it and check it out when I have a chance. Thank you so much hun!
Jason Chandler: Thank you so much! I'm so happy to hear that you enjoyed it :) I have a good idea of what I want in the next chapter, and while animals don't need to use them, 'guns blazing' is still a great way to put it.
Jestalnaker94000: I'm glad you were surprised, I'm pretty happy with how it turned out, especially because it was a last minute change from what I had originally intended.
Oh yes, those poachers shall indeed know the true meaning of vengeance.
bored411: I'm gonna try to get to work on the next chapter soon, I really hope I'm able to deliver a good read for you when it's time.
Thank you so much everyone. For your reviews, your follows and your favorites, and most of all, thank you for your patience. I can imagine it's been pretty frustrating that it takes me so long to post, but you all have still been such angels to me regardless. You truly make writing that much more rewarding and I can never even begin to describe how grateful I am to you all.
I hope you enjoy the chapter.
…
…
...
Chapter 19: Rally the Troops.
…
...
…
Ryan didn't know how long it had been since the painted dogs had rescued him from the poachers.
The leader said that there was much for them to discuss, but so far, things had been very quiet as he followed behind her leading the way to who knows where. And to his discomfort, the rest pack stayed a short distance behind them.
Occasionally, he would peek over his shoulder, only to see multiple pairs of eyes glaring at him. Gamba and Zuberi's dagger-like gazes were especially sharper than the others.
"We will not hurt you, young one." Imani suddenly stated, startling him as her voice was the first to break the silence. "We would not have saved you, otherwise."
The young man quickly looked forward again, feeling a small jab of embarrassment at having been caught acting so suspicious of them. But even though he knew that she was right, and he was grateful that they kept him from taking a bullet, it was hard to shake the feeling of unease considering his less than stellar interactions with wild dogs.
"Sorry, " He asked. "Where exactly are we going, anyway?"
"We are taking you to our den." She answered. "It is a secret place where you will be safe until we can find Simba."
"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Ryan asked, and as uncomfortable as he was at the thought of being alone with any of these guys, he was pretty sure Simba still wasn't in the right mind set to not attack any painted dog on sight. "It would be better if I help you look for him."
"No. It is dark and it would be faster to go ourselves." The she-dog dismissed. "The danger we are in is too great even for the slightest delay and it is my hope that we may find peace between us if the king knows that we have kept you from harm."
"Look, I appreciate you trying to keep me safe and all," Ryan began, "But I still think I should-"
"No." Imani said firmly, looking back him with her honey brown eyes narrowed in a glare. "That is my final word on the matter."
Ryan gulped down any last bit a protest he still had before his gaze went back to focus on the ground, taking care not to trip over any rocks or uneven ground. But it was impossible to ignore the breeze blowing over his skin as what was left of his tattered cloths did little to protect him from the chill; And though he tried rubbing at his arms, the meager friction did very little to help his shivering.
The young man nearly gave loud gasp when he felt something large and fluffy press against his right side, looking down, he saw that it was Imani, who had slowed down her pace and began walking as close as she could without tripping. He could have sighed with relief as she felt like a walking radiator, and he was grateful for the rather considerate action despite how curt and aloof he found her to be.
But pretty soon, he began to grow uncomfortable with the silence again.
"Do you mind if I ask you something?" He began after a short while, watching as her head gave a short nod. "You said that you were Buziba's sister-in-law, but you're both the alphas, so how exactly does that work? I mean, I always thought that there was just the one alpha and their mate, but you're not his-"
"Imani doesn't have to explain our ways to the likes of you!" Gamba snapped, making Ryan flinch at how angry he sounded. "Be grateful to her that you still have your life and be silent until we reach the den!"
"Gamba, it is fine." Imani assured. "He is young, and he is scared; let him speak if that is what calms him."
"I never said I was scared…" Ryan mumbled, feeling his face grow hot. And to his surprise once again, Imani let out a noise that almost sounded like chuckle.
"For most animals, it is common to be led either by a patriarch or matriarch, one whose law and voice are absolute and upheld by all who are under them. Even by their chosen mates." The she-dog explained. "For painted dogs, it is our custom that there be two leaders, the alpha pair. The wisest and strongest of the pack who lead as an equal power and the only ones within the pack who are permitted to produce new litters together each season."
Ryan glanced down at her with wide eyes, obviously surprised upon hearing that only two members of a whole pack could have pups, but Imani moved the conversation along.
"Because of my rational thought and skills in hunting, I was betrothed to a son of the previous alpha pair, Adhama. Admired by all for his unwavering bravery, and elder brother to Buziba. Unfortunately, we succeeded his parents after we lost them to the evils of man." Imani continued. "We persevered together, and when my first pups were born, we led the pack away from our ancestral home in the Flatlands hoping to find refuge in a new land so we could live without fear. But it wasn't long before man found us again, wherein, they took many of our members…including Adhama."
The young man shifted her eyes down to the ground before him. Not sure what he could say, if he could even say anything at all, upon hearing that she had lost her mate; But thankfully, an awkward silence was avoided when she kept speaking.
"It was unanimous that the only one worthy to take his place as the alpha male was Buziba." The she-dog stated. "And while I agreed to remain alpha female, it would only be until he found himself a suitable mate to take my place when my pups were grown; then I would formally step down."
"Why do you have to do that? Couldn't you just marry Buziba and stay the-" He immediately stopped, placing his hand over his mouth when he realized how insensitive he must have sounded. The way she talked about her mate, he could tell that she had loved him and still missed him very much.
But instead of showing coldness or ignoring his question all together, she gave the slightest shrug of her shoulders while letting out a soft hum.
"While it is not unheard of, I found that the idea of pairing with Buziba simply didn't suit me." Imani explained. "Maybe some can find comfort in seeing so much of who they loved in another...but I would feel nothing but heartache because the one I wanted to spend my life with is no longer with me." Imani explained, but she let out a disheartened sigh. "Though my feelings are all moot point now that Buziba is gone; I no longer have the option to step down, and before the season ends, I'll need to choose another to lead with me."
That didn't seem very fair at all, especially since it was clear that she didn't want to have another mate. But Ryan decided that it was better to keep his opinions to himself in case there was a chance that he would accidently insult their customs.
"How did he go missing in the first place?" Ryan instead asked. "He didn't seem like the type who would be captured easily."
He was startled when Imani suddenly stopped in her tracks, and although he couldn't clearly see her face due to the little light the moon had to offer, he could feel a tense aura coming off from her which left him fearing that he said something very wrong.
"It is because my pups were stolen." She finally answered in a low voice before she resumed the walk.
Ryan stood there for a short minuet, the reason Buziba was captured was because he had been looking for Akachi and Akuchi?
"Hold on, what happened?" He asked, catching up with her, "How'd they even find you guys?"
"They found us as a result of my many careless mistakes." The lycaon leader told him, regret evident in her voice.
"Imani, it wasn't you fault, how could any of us have known?" Zuberi insisted, but he quieted down after she hushed him.
"I fell into great despair when Adhama died, and an inexperienced Buziba was forced to lead alone as I barely cared enough to look after my own self. The dynamic of the pack suffered and there were many nights where we all would go hungry. By the time I managed to finally pull myself together, both my son and daughter had fallen terribly ill; We thought the Pridelands to be bountiful, but prey was still so hard for us to secure. Not only because Buziba was still learning his position as an alpha, but because my packs faith in me to lead our hunting party was shaken as well."
Many members of the pack behind them bowed their heads when Imani said this, looking like they were ashamed that they had doubted their alpha for even an instant when she had to suffer the pain of her loss. But it also seemed like Imani didn't once blame them for feeling the way that they did.
"I grew more distraught when each hunt had little to nothing to show for it, and without an abundance of food, my pups could not get better. Their condition grew even worse when we suddenly had to leave, and there were many times I feared that I would find that they were taken from me like their father…but thank goodness, they held on." Imani continued while Ryan quietly listened. "I didn't take me long to discover that we had actually been banished from the Pridelands. I was angry at Buziba for his actions against the royal family, even more so because he claimed he did it for the sake of my pups…but I knew he was not the only one at fault. I was most angry in myself because he would not have turned to such a thing had I not allowed myself to wallow in my grief as long as I had."
"When we somehow made it to this jungle, I decided then and there that there would be a change. I took charge of the hunting party and refused to return to our den unless every hunt was fruitful, however small it was. Most importantly, I made a vow that I would never give myself up to despair so long as I was still alpha." She added,"...but I was so determined to earn back the trust of my pack, making sure that our home was well hidden and secure became an afterthought as I mistakenly thought we were far from dangers' reach."
Imani took in a long breath, trying to steel herself before she went on with her tale.
"It was just another day. Buziba and I left with all of our best hunters as we intended to hunt a heard impala we managed to track down. But before we could make a kill, we heard a hoo-call from a pack sister, one of the four members we charged to look after the den while we searched for food; Something was wrong, and when we finally found her, she was injured and the only one to barely make it out alive to report that the den had been attacked." Imani recounted. "When we returned, all that was left of our den was an empty hole, and the air was filled with that familiar stench that had plagued us for so long...man had once again taken what was most precious to me."
"I'm…I'm so sorry." Ryan tried, but that was all he could manage as he felt so ashamed for everything these wild dogs had gone through.
Looking back, it was no wonder Buziba held such rage and contempt for him. It must have been nothing short of a miracle that he decided to take a chance on him rather than just kill him on Tillys' command.
"You are not to blame, child; while I can never truly forgive man, your courage in standing for what is right is enough to convince me that you are not like the evil ones." Imani gently assured him before she recounted what happened next. "Buziba wanted us to search for my pups, and I told him no. My heart could not take any false hope that they would be found alive when death was evident around us; I stayed true to my vow, and put my feelings aside as it was best for the pack that we find a new den; one where we could never be found to suffer another tragedy again."
"But it wasn't long when we finally found our new refuge did Buziba disappear, and I knew at that very moment that stubborn dog had taken it upon himself to look for my son and daughter. But when he never returned, I could feel that something was wrong." She added. "It was difficult for us as his scent ended so abruptly, and we could smell that man had been near."
"Was that around the time when I ran into Gamba and Zuberi?" Ryan asked before Imani gave a nod of her head.
"The future of our pack was reliant on him as the alpha male, so we traveled as far as we could every day to find any sign of him, even when our searches were hindered only to the dead of night when it was discovered that Simba and his pride were residing here as well." Imani explained. "But we began to grow hopeless when we could find nothing…this was to be the last night we would search for him before we finally heard his hoo-call."
She once again slowed to a stop, making Ryan look down to her as she stared into the deep jungle ahead of her with a troubled expression on her face before she met eyes with Ryan.
"I pray that you do not think too poorly of Buziba." She implored. "After hearing our tale, I hope you understand that we have suffered much misfortune. Grief and desperation all too often blight the most honorable of souls and cause them to make terrible mistakes."
Even as Imani said that, Ryan could see Imani glaring at the ground as her figure begin to tremble. Like she was doing everything she could to keep from crying.
"But if he was still alive, why did he not call for us before tonight?" she asked, though it was to no one in particular. "He knew as well as I that the pack is strongest together, we could have saved him if he had just called for us. How could he hurt me when I have already been forced to endure so much? Did he care so little for my pain that he would just leave me to shoulder it alone?"
The young man heard whimpers of concern ripple through the pack of painted dogs behind them, and he stood there, running his fingers through his raven hair as he was unsure of what to say to her.
"It's not that he didn't care, Imani, I think he just...lost the will to fight back for a while." Ryan started hesitantly. "Those poachers that took him are very bad people, and they turned him into a very different dog before I got there."
He knelt down beside her and placed a comforting hand on her back, which she thankfully allowed him to do as she continued to listen patiently.
"I think he was ashamed of it, and he was scared to face you again after another failure…but he managed to act like a true leader before the end." He said. "Honestly, if he hadn't been strong enough to break out of the hold they had on him, and trust that I could help you get your pups back, I don't think I would have made it out of there in the first place."
And at that, Imani slowly raised her head, an expression of awe and disbelief alight on her furry features before her wide, honey eyes met with Ryans; A small, but truly hopeful smile daring to appear upon her muzzle.
"My pups…" she started, nearly breathless. "They're alive?"
"Ryan! Get down!"
Before anyone had a chance to react to that unexpected shout, a red and gold blur leaped out into the open with booming roar and Ryan felt Imani yank herself away from him just as huge, clawed paws pounded upon the ground where she once stood.
And as soon as the dust settled, the figure that was now standing in between Ryan and the wild dogs was none other than the king of the Pridelands himself.
"Simba!" Ryan exclaimed, both happy and alarmed to see him. Then he had to stumbled back to make space for the lionesses who soon came in force and crowded around him protectively.
Even Zazu was there as he glided down to quickly perched upon his shoulder.
"Ryan! Oh thank heavens you're alright!" the hornbill began ecstatically. "I was so sure we would never see you again!
His blue feathered wings joyfully flapped about his face as he carried on in his delight to see Ryan unharmed. All the while, the teen tried to crane his head away from them so he could keep his eyes on Imani and Simba as there was a tense stand-off between the two leaders.
At least until the she-dog decided to take the initiative and walk towards the large, intimidating lion who was extremely unhappy to have her, or any of the lycaons in his presence.
"Stay back!" Simba commanded before he bared his fangs and bluffed a charge at her; But Imani seemed to be undaunted and stood her ground.
"We meant the boy no harm." She said, cautiously. "We were only taking him to a safe place with the intention of searching for you afterwards."
"I highly doubt your "intentions" were that honorable!" Simba snapped. "After all you painted dogs have done, you really think I'd believe that you've had a change of heart!"
The entire pack of wild dogs began chittering behind her with nervous hostility, but they didn't move as they loyally waited for Imani to give an order if it was needed. Worried that things would get out of hand soon, Ryan tried to step in, but he found that to be a difficult endeavor as the lionesses huddled around him like a growling gate of fangs and claws.
"We don't want to fight." The she-dog assured. "And If you believe that we wish harm upon you or Ryan, then I'm afraid your judgment is much too clouded to see the true danger within this jungle."
"Guys, if you would just let me explain," Ryan began, trying to get a word in before things had a chance to escalate, but they didn't seem to even notice that he was trying to talk to them.
"Clouded? Is it not true that members of your pack plotted with a traitor to take the life of my daughter?!" The angry lion then zeroed in on Gamba and Zuburi who had both moved away from the others to get closer to Imani, intending to defend their leader if they needed too. "Is it not true that they chased Ryan through the Oasis with killer intent?!"
Both painted dogs averted their gazes at that, but Imani took one more step towards the king to bring his focus back to her.
"I will not argue that that you have been wronged, but it does not make it any less true that we saved Ryan from the evil ones." Imani stated, and although her voice was calm, there was a definite edge to it and her mottled fur was beginning to puff out in agitation. "You claim to be his friend, then why were we the ones to aid him? Where were you when he was to fall to man's thunder?"
"Could you all please-" Ryan tried to interject, but once again, he wasn't able to get word in when Simba let out an enraged roar which prompted the lionesses and the wild dogs to start closing the gap between each other with louder, more aggressive growls.
"How dare you!" the lion snarled. "You have no right to question me, not when you dogs are responsible for-"
"STOP IT!"
Everyone immediately froze and stood silent, listening as the shout seemed to ricochet until it faded into the depths of the jungle before they looked to Ryan with wide eyes as he finally pushed himself through the barricade of lions. A few seconds of having multiple eyes staring at him, the young man took in a deep breath and moved himself over in-between the two leaders.
"Guys…this had been a very long night. There's still so much that needs to be addressed and not a lot of time to get it done." He said in a firmly. "I know that we're not all totally comfortable with it, but I need you all to call a truce, and be willing to help each other since each side has someone that needs saving."
Simba immediately spoke his disapproval of this, looking as though he felt betrayed by the young man's statement.
"You can't be serious!" he snapped, sending a hatful glare towards Imani and her pack. "We can't trust them after what they did!"
"Simba, I know. I know you're still angry, and you have every right to be…but the wild dogs are the only reason I'm standing here in the first place. I'd be shot dead in the jungle if it wasn't for them." Ryan explained, leaning over into Simba's' line of sight and motioning him to calm down and listen. "Imani is the second leader of this pack, she wasn't even involved in what happened with Zira; and the reason they chased after me that day was because of a misunderstanding."
"Right." the red maned lion grumbled in disbelief. "That sounds like too much coincidence to be the truth."
"Well, I believe her!" Ryan stated in a raise voice, watching as Simba seemed a little taken aback by his resolve. The lycaons' appeared to be just as surprised. "We're all in serious trouble, Simba, we need to start somewhere; if you still can't bring yourself trust them, then just trust me."
A low, agitated growl rumbled out from Simba's chest, watching as his expression clearly played out on his face of the internal war he was going through while Ryan sat still and said nothing. Hoping that he would calm down enough to listen, and a little fearful that he wouldn't be able to help Imani and her pack out of this if he decided that he didn't want to hear what Ryan had to say.
"…Fine. I'll trust you, Ryan." the king finally relented, although he still didn't look pleased with the whole situation.
The young man felt a wave of relief, glad that he was able to prevent a fight. And once he saw that the lionesses were following Simbas' lead and relaxing a little bit, he took in a deep breath started to speak again.
"First of all, I need to say I'm sorry. To you especially, Simba" He started as Simba raised a brow in confusion. "I'm sorry for everything you must have went through when Nala and I disappeared, and then when Kiara was taken. But ever since we rescued Ma Tembo after her fall in that hole…I had suspicions that bad people, poachers, were here in the jungle."
"Poachers?" a lioness asked.
"They're humans, like me. Humans who hunt down animals for profit. " Ryan explained, averting his eyes in shame as he inwardly braced himself to continue. "Who do all those terrible things you heard about when we first met."
A collective gasp rang from the entire pride.
"Why didn't you say anything?!" Simba demanded angrily.
"I wasn't completely sure I was right." The young man answered truthfully. "I didn't want to cause a panic if I happened to be wrong. It was my mistake alone and I swear on my life that I will do everything I can to make it right…but I could use some help."
Simba still looked so upset after Ryans' confession, but thankfully, he appeared to put it aside, at least for the time being now as he Ryan gave a nod of his head.
"What sort of help?" the lion asked, making a grateful smile appear on Ryans' face.
"This is too big for just us, so the first thing we need more power behind us. The elephants, the hippos, anyone and everyone who's willing to fight with us." Ryan said, but he had a troubled look on his face. "The problem is, this jungle is huge, it'll take forever to search for them all and we don't have a lot of time as it is."
"I would gladly offer my assistance, but I'm afraid it's much too dark for me to efficiently search for his majesty's subjects." Zazu stated regretfully.
"If you need someone who's fast, then I can help." a voice stated.
Ryan looked over towards the lionesses as they parted, allowing a figure with yellow fur blotted with bold spots and bright green eyes to approach them as the young man's eyes widened in recognition. It was the female king cheetah Ryan had let out of the cage back at the poachers' camp.
"It's you!" Ryan exclaimed, feeling a smile spread across his face. "You really looked for Simba? I didn't think you trusted me enough to do that."
"At first, I didn't." She said. "But it was the least I could do as you were the one to set me free."
"Michirizi was leading us to the poachers before we saw you with…them." Simba said, giving the wild dogs a sideways sneer.
"It would be great if you could spread the word, but are you sure you want to do that?" Ryan asked, quickly moving the conversation away from a potential argument as he glanced over her swollen stomach. "You shouldn't strain yourself; this is a big jungle to be looking for so many animals."
"We're solitary creatures, you know; we still have to hunt for our meals, expecting or not." Michirizi said with a confident smile. "Besides, even at half their speed, cheetahs are still the fastest."
Seeing that she was determined to help, Ryan gave no more protest and took a step back as the king cheetah took in a deep breath and prepared herself for the run, loudly exclaiming "Huwezi!" before she shot out into the darkness of the jungle, kicking up a cloud of dust in her wake to as she set off on her mission to track down the animals of the Pridelands.
...
...
...
Hours Later...
...
...
...
As they waited for Michirizi to return with the other animals, it felt like time was by agonizingly slow for Ryan while he sat with the lions and wild dogs.
If the air were any more tense, Ryan was sure he would end up choking on it. And the fact that Simba had set himself right next to Ryan with his pride grouped close together nearby, all the while shooting Imani and her pack suspicious glares every time one of them did so much as much as twitch an ear, made the wait increasingly more awkward.
But he said nothing as he hoped that just sitting between the two groups would be enough to keep a fight from starting, and silently prayed that help would arrive soon.
And thankfully, just sky began to grow brighter with the coming dawn, Michirizi finally pulled through when nearly every animal he had met during their stay here came pouring out from the jungle one after another.
Some he had already met such as the zebras, baboons and rhinos, the hippos and elephants, but there were others he hadn't met yet as giraffe, buffalo, antelope, and impala followed after them; she even managed to somehow convince the crocodiles to come as well.
"You're all here!" Ryan exclaimed.
"The cheetah said it was important." Makuu stated after they settled down before them, sounding rather grumpy. "It better be, after wakin' us up to walk all the way out here in the middle of the night!"
"We wouldn't have requested your presence if it was anything less, Makuu, I assure you." Simba answered.
"What's wrong, your majesty?" Aminifu asked with genuine concern.
"My friends, I'm afraid that the Oasis is no longer the safe haven we thought it to be." The king began. "There is a danger here, one that threatens our very lives if we don't act accordingly."
"Danger?!" Thurston the zebra exclaimed, he and his herd looking on the verge of panic. "What danger? Just how dangerous is it?!"
Instead of answering him, Simba looked over to Ryan and motioned him to step up beside him.
"I'm sure all of you have had a chance to met Ryan, here." The king said. "As he has seen what we're up against firsthand, I believe he would be better suited to inform you."
Simba gave the young man a nod and allowed Ryan to step forward where he, after taking a steadying breath, began to explain.
"They are called poachers. And regretfully, they are people like me." Ryan began, feeling a little nervous to have so many eyes on him. "I don't know if any of you have heard stories about man, but to put it simply, they are terrible people who make a living on catching and hurting animals of all kinds. They've already imprisoned animals who are family and friends, among them are queen Nala and princess Kiara; And I was held captive by them too, before I was able to escape."
His stomach was still doing flips, but it began to settle down and he actually started to feel a little more confident the more he spoke. It certainly helped, and was very appreciated, that no one seemed to judge him for the actions of a few bad humans.
"I have a plan to stop them." He added. "But if there's anyone who's scared or doesn't want to be involved, then I'll understand if you want to back out."
"Back out?" Ma Tembo asked in surprise. "You helped rescue me when I fell in that hole, of course we'll help you."
"If the elephants are helping, then we will too." Basi said as his herd and Mbaya's crash stepped forward. "Especially if the queen and little princess needs us."
"We will offer our assistance as well." Pua said, looking to Makuu before he could object. "There's no one better in a scrap then a crocodile."
"My herd will join in too." Thurston said. "After all, I still have to repay you for getting me out of that pesky vine. We zebras' always pay back our debts."
"We might help, Oo-oo." Big Baboon said, though he didn't look particularly interested. "If we feel like it..."
Ryan gave all of them a grateful smile, then feeling a rush of determination, he picked up a stick and began to draw a rough image to give everyone a general visual of the poachers' campsite before he had them gather around.
"This is where they were keeping Nala, Timon and Pumbaa and Imani's pups in cages; and they keep the majority of their firearms, their "thunder sticks", in the warehouse right here, which should be the easiest to get rid of." Ryan explained as he took his stick and began to draw an image of a gun. "I'm sure that there might be some in this tent where most of the poachers sleep, once we have the warehouse secure, we'll have the baboons will go in and take them."
"And if they happen to wake up?" Makuu questioned. "Baboons aren't known for being quiet."
"Hey!" Big Baboon snapped indignantly. "We can be quiet if we want to be! Oo-ah!"
"I'm sure they can manage, Makuu, but all we really need them to worry about is just getting the guns away and out of reach." Ryan said with a grin. "Lions, hippos and crocodiles are animals that many humans are scared at the very sight of. So I'm sure just seeing them all over the camp will have them running for their lives if they're not stuck shaking in their boots."
"What about us Ryan?" Thurston asked. "We want to help, but I'm not sure what we can do. Zebras are excellent at lots of things, but we don't exactly instill fear in others."
"Oh, you can do plenty. " Ryan assured him. "These guys use cheap tricks to capture animals, and I think it's only fair that they feel the same level of fear and disorientation they dish out. We'll have Simba and the lionesses roar to signal you and the other herds to come running in to really amp it up. Feel free to do what you do best...panic and run."
"Oh we're very good at that." Thurston said with a giddy tone in his voice
"The only tricky part is gonna to be finding Kiara because they were keeping her separated from Nala…" The young man continued, pointing to the spot that represented Tillys' bigger tent. "But I'm sure that this is where she'll be. While you guys are keeping the poachers busy, I'll slip in and look for her."
He then put the stick down, bringing a thumb and index finger to his mouth before he let out a loud, sharp whistle.
"I'll whistle when I have Kiara, that'll be the signal to bring in the big guns." Ryan said, gesturing to the elephants and rhinos. "The rest of you will have to clear out once you hear it."
"Big guns?" Ma Tembo repeated in confusion. "But we don't have any of those."
"No, I mean you and the rhinos, Ma Tembo. Once we're ready, I'll give the signal for to charge in force." Ryan quickly explained. "Elephants are big enough to level the entire the camp, making it totally uninhabitable. And as for the rhino's, your job is to make sure that they'll pretty much be stranded out here."
He then started drawing the outlines of their jeep and gasoline containers before stepping out of the way so Mbaya, Kifaru and the rest of the crash could come in closer for a better look at the images.
"We need you do everything you can to make sure that they have no more gas or transportation." Ryan told the rhinos. "We don't want this vehicle to ever have a chance at running again."
"You can count on us, Ryan." Mbaya said.
"Us too!" Mwenzi the tickbird added from his perch upon Kifarus' back with Zazu was right beside him. "Rhinos don't have the best eyesight, but we can make sure they keep on track."
Ryan felt his chest swell with pride at seeing all these different animals coming together, offering to do what they can to protect the oasis. But there was just one more thing to cover before anything could be done.
"I can't thank you enough for all you're willing to do, but your safety has to be first and foremost." Ryan stated. "Does everyone have a plan pf escape or a safe place to lay low for a while is case something goes wrong?"
Once he said that, Simba stepped forward to address them as well.
"If you have no way to protect yourselves if the worst comes to be, then I'd rather have you turn back and find a new place far away from here." Simba told them. "These poachers are like no danger we have faced before, and I won't allow the welfare of my subjects be in jeopardy."
"Oh, you don't need to worry about us, Simba." Basi assured with a big grin.
"That's right, rhinos are faster than they look, and us zebras' are excellent runners after all." came Thurstons matter-of-fact statement while the rhinos nodded in agreement.
"The hippos and crocodiles will be just fine just as long as there is water." Pua added. "Good thing this jungle has an abundance of it."
"As long as there are trees, my baboons and I will be perfectly safe. Oo-oo!" Big Baboon said proudly.
"And elephants can clear great distances exceptionally quickly." Aminifu said.
"In truth, our concerns are most about you, Simba." Ma Tembo stated, looking down to him with worry in her eyes. "It seems these evil ones are intent on capturing you and your pride, I fear that you won't be able to get away unscathed, and the young princess is much too small to endure any strenuous trek."
"Nala should be okay, their top priority has been to make sure that she's cared for." Ryan said. "But you're right about Kiara. She held out like a trooper when I was on the run from Zira, but I hate the thought of putting her through that again..."
"Perhaps we can help with that." Came the voice of Imani, speaking for the first time since Kasi left to rally the troops.
Simba let out a disbelieving scoff, obviously not wanting to listen to anything she had to offer, but a light touch on his back from Ryan stopped him from giving her any rebuff.
"Come on, let's hear her out." The young man said before he looked back to the lycaon alpha. "Imani?"
"Our den lies behind the largest waterfall of the jungle, and there is a secret path that leads to a cave. A mist rises as the falls collides with the waters below and hides it from sight." Imani explained. "My pack can lead you and yours to safety after the battle, and give you refuge for as long as you need it."
Ryan couldn't help but smile, feeling that they now had a solid plan of action for any situation. But it was quickly dashed away when Simba gave her his answer…
"No." the lion said firmly.
"Simba!" Ryan exclaimed, shocked by his outright refusal.
"I said no!" Simba stated with a growl before he moved his glaring amber gaze back to the equally surprised looking pack leader. "I give you my thanks for saving Ryan, but I won't allow painted dogs to be involved in this any longer!"
Anger soon replaced the surprised expression on Imanis' face, and while she did a wonderful job in composing herself, Ryan could tell she really, really, really want to tell Simba exactly what she thought of his stubbornness.
"We are involved whether you wish it so or not! So long as man still hold my family captive, this battle is ours to fight as much as it is yours!" She said sharply. "We may not be of the Pridelands, but that doesn't mean we have not heard your stories; How the great Mufasa fell in the wildebeest stampede, how you won back your birthright from the tyrannical king Scar...we have even heard tales of the lost prince."
Imani paused at that, taking in a deep breath to calm herself and her features began to soften with sympathy.
"You have suffered greatly, and my heart aches with you for the suffering you were forced to endure. But do not presume that I haven't any understanding of loss." she continued in a gentler tone. "Akachi and Akuchi, they are my first and only pups I was blessed to have with my beloved before he was killed by the hands man."
Simba only turned away for a moment, looking lost in thought before glancing back to Imani as she dared to step away from the safety of her pack to stand directly before him.
"As a fellow leader, I respect your decision not to trust us. But as a mother, I implore you…do not deny me this chance to find my children." she said, looking to Ryan. "Not when this wonderful boy has renewed my faith in seeing them alive when I thought them to be lost as well."
When Simba remained silent, as he wasn't sure if he should change his mind, her normally calm and stoic expression faltered and almost seemed to melt into one of pleading and regret.
"I know that there are no words that can convince you to excuse the wrong which has been done by Buziba, but on behalf of this pack, I hope you can find it within you to accept my deepest apologies and allow the chance to rescue my family…" She then surprised Simba when she suddenly stooped her head low until her chin rested upon the toes of her paws. "Allow us this one chance."
Her pack immediately began to make a ruckus at their alphas' submissive actions.
"Imani what are you doing?!" Zuberi demanded. "Don't apologize for Buziba when all he wanted was to keep all of us safe; he did it for you, for the future of the pack!"
"You are to be strong, proud!" Gamba added, sounding just as outraged. "You know better than to bow your head!"
"And Buziba should have known better then to try and trade a life for another, our own or not!" Imani snapped back, sending over a withering glare which caused a hush to fall over the pack. "Had he succeeded in that terrible plot, then how would my pups have felt if they learned of what their uncle had done? And all because their own foolish mother had failed them in the first place!"
"We will not prosper if we continue to allow to death guide our every action!"
Gamba and Zuberi bowed their head in shame, the rest of the painted dogs following in suit. And when she was sure that no one else would speak against her again, she stood back up and returned her attention to Simba.
"Let us help you. Let us make amends for the wrong that has been done and let me save my pups." She said. "They are all I have."
"Very well." Simba finally said, though he still seemed very apprehensive. "I'll allow this as a chance to prove yourselves. If this plan goes well, and my family is safe and sound, then I will consider all past transgressions forgiven."
"Thank you, Simba." She said, her voice filled with genuine sincerity.
Ryan beamed at Simba for his change of heart, however unsure he still seemed to be he was just glad that they were going to set aside their differences and work together. And as the young man looked all around, taking in the sight of all these amazing creatures who were ready to stand beside them against the poachers, he felt like they really did have a chance.
They would set late tonight, when he was sure that Tilly and her three stooges would be fast asleep. And by the time the sun rose tomorrow, those poachers are going to regret ever stepping foot in this jungle!
Decided to rename the cheetah Michirizi after I realized that there was a lion in Vitani's guard that was already called Kasi. I know it shouldn't be that big a deal, but I rather liked how the new name sounded. It supposedly means 'streaks', which I thought would suit her just fine both in terms of speed, and the fact that king cheetahs have those long bold stripes down their backs.
I hope it was a good read guys, I was intending for this chapter to give the wild dogs a bit more spotlight and give them a chance to show Simba that they're really not as evil as they seemed in the beginning. I think it turned out pretty good considering I had to do so many changes, but it would help me out a lot if you could point out any mistakes that might have gotten past me so I can fix them up later.
Now, as for the next chapter, I'm not sure how long it'll take me to finish it up. I don't like setting timelines because I, much too often, aren't able to deliver on it. But I hope that you know that I'll still do my best to get it done.
Thank you again for your patience, guys I truly do appreciate you all so very much.