The Lion King VII : Evil of The Mighty Ver 1.2 by Eben Prentzler LEGAL NOTE: ----------- This original copyrighted work is based on Walt Disney's feature films, "The Lion King" and "The Lion King II : Simba's Pride." Elements taken directly from "The Lion King" and "The Lion King II : Simba's Pride" are the property of The Walt Disney Company. Quoting passages from my work, writing original pieces based on my work, or using characters I created is fine as long as you contact me first and sending me a copy of your work. My e-mail address is : ep4lk@excite.com FOREWORD : ---------- After many months of pondering if I should continue with my stories, I finally decided to write another story. I didn't think a had it in me, but finally I got the great idea for the following story I hope you enjoy it. -Eben Prentzler NOTE : ------ You must read all my other stories : "The Lion King III : Simba's Heir", "The Lion King IV : Dark Ruler", "The Lion King V : The Final Clash", and "The Lion King VI : The Human Encounter", before you will understand the following story, 'cause sometimes there will be quotes of what happened in the previous stories. THANK YOU NOTES : ----------------- I'd like to thank my good friend Jacob van den Berg for proof reading this story and pointing out most of my grammar errors. I also like to thank him for all his great ideas. And Finally a WARNING : ----------------------- This story contains scenes with high violence and lots of blood. Some parts might even seem brutal, so read on at your own risk. Contents : ---------- The Characters What happened again ? The Script : The Daughter A New Arrival Guest From The West The Births Adoption The Troublemaker The Truth Must Be Told The Fight A New Recruit The Story Comes Out The Training : DAY 1 DAY 2 PUNISHMENT Graduation Death Is Everywhere Leader Of The Pack Down With The Rulers Slaves The Escape In The Desert In The Jungle The Meeting Torture Of The Mind Don't Belong The Promise The Pride Of The Mist The Pure Of Heart The Mighty Takes Over On The Border The Attack Passing Of Sentence Purification Of The Soul Finale` The Characters : ---------------- Old Characters : ORKAM : Current ruler of The Pride Lands ELICHE : Current queen of The Pride Lands New Characters : UMUNTU {U-MUN-TU} (Hero) : Son of Orkam & Eliche, heir to the throne. BOTSE {BOT-C} (Beautiful) : Daughter of Orkam & Eliche. ARREIS : Rogue lionesses. NAMANDLA {NA-MAN-DLA} (Mighty) : Son of Arreis. BUSISIWE {BU-C-C-WE} : One of the many cubs in the pride. INSINGO {IN-SING-O} : One of the many cubs in the pride. UMFANA {UM-FA-NA} : One of the many cubs in the pride. ILANGA {I-LAN-GA} : One of the many cubs in the pride. AIDNI {A-ID-KNEE} : One of the many cubs in the pride. IMBALI {IM-BA-LI} (Flower) : Female cub that plays a major role in Umuntu's live . WENDEBI {WHEN-DE-BI} : A lioness of Umuntu's Pride. BALELA {BA-LE-LA} : Male hyena, one of Shenzi's grandchildren. BELE {BE-LE}: Female hyena, one of Shenzi's grandchildren. JEMBULIKA {GEM-BUL-IKA}: Male hyena, one of Shenzi's grandchildren. IMPELE {IMPELE} : Female hyena, one of Shenzi's grandchildren and leader of the hyena pack. INGWE {ING-WE} : A leopard playing a major role in everybody's life. CISAB {KI-SAP} : A small part leopard OROG {O-ROGUE} : Leader of "The Pride Of The Mist". NASYD {NAS-EYED} : Shaman of Orog. DEIS {DICE} : Son of Umuntu ORCHID {OR-CHID} : Daughter of Umuntu IKANA {I-KA-NA} : Son of Namandla A quick note : -------------- Because some of the cub names are rather hard to pronounce, sometimes when the characters to each other they will use nicknames. Nicknames : ----------- UMUNTU = Umi NAMANDLA = Nami ILANGA = Langi IMBALI = Bali What happened again ? --------------------- In our last story we saw how the lions from Pride Rock face the evil intentions of the humans. After the battle at the complex of death, the lions decided to return home. With many wounds they made the long journey home, hoping that the Pride Lands were safe from any harm. When they finally got home, they saw that the magnificent figure of Pride Rock was not intruded while they were gone. Now that the war was over they enjoyed the peaceful surroundings of the Pride Lands. But their glory was only lived for a short time... ---------------------- SCENE 1 : THE DAUGHTER ---------------------- [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Orkam was sitting on the promontory, looking deeply into the setting sun. A single tear ran down his cheek. Eliche came from behind and saw him crying.) ELICHE : Thinking of your brother. (Orkam didn't answer just slowly nodded. Finally after a long silence Orkam started to speak.) ORKAM : Why did have to happen to him ? He was strong, I really wished that he stayed here. Maybe if I just got there a day earlier. ELICHE : (getting a bit angry) Oh no you don't. Don't you dare blame yourself for something you didn't do. (With tears in her eyes) I don't know if you noticed, but I also lost someone close to me, (getting furious) but do you see me blaming myself, these things happen, but if you think you are responsible for what happened then I don't why they chose you to become king. (Orkam heart almost shattered when Eliche said those words. Eliche turned around and ran into the den crying.) ORKAM : (to himself) Idiot! (Yelling) Eliche, wait! I'm sorry. (Orkam ran after her into the den. He found her crying alone in the deepest corner of the den.) ORKAM : I'm sorry. You're right I shouldn't have blamed myself for what happened. I know that Leacim meant a lot to you, but we must try to remember them the way that they were... Best brother and sister in the world. ELICHE : (Looking up) Forgive me, I didn't mean to snap at you like that. It is just not me. ORKAM : Don't worry about it, no matter what you do, I will always love you. (Orkam turned around to leave.) ELICHE : Wait. (Orkam turned and looked deep into Eliche's eyes.) ORKAM : You want to tell me something. ELICHE : I have been keeping a secret from you. ORKAM : And what might that be ? ELICHE : I'm baring your cubs. ORKAM : (in disbelieve) What ? When did you know ? ELICHE : The day before we went to the human complex. ORKAM : Why didn't you tell me ? ELICHE : Because you would have made me stay here. ORKAM : Damn right. ELICHE : Just think about it, if you made me stay here, I would have had to find out the hard way what happened to Leacim and that would have teared me apart. So please don't angry with me for keeping this secret from you. ORKAM : I will forgive you this time, but please when it comes to my children, don't ever keep a secret like that again. ELICHE : I won't. [FADE OUT] A FEW MONTHS PASSED [FADE IN, PRIDE LANDS] (Night consumed the Pride Lands. The silence of the night was suddenly broken by terrible howls of pains as Eliche went into labor. After a long labor period Eliche gave birth to a beautiful cub. Wendebi cleaned off the newborn cub and handed it to it's mother.) WENDEBI : (To Eliche) Say hello to your new daughter Eliche. ELICHE : Isn't she beautiful ? WENDEBI : Absolutely. What are you going to call her ? ELICHE : She's extremely beautiful...That's it, I will call her Botse. WENDEBI : What a beautiful name, but what does it mean ? ELICHE : You never paid attention in your lessons, did you ? WENDEBI : (blushing) Well... ELICHE : It's very simple, her name must show her beauty. Therefore I named her Botse, which means "Beautiful". WENDEBI : You will make a great mother and philosopher. ELICHE : (blushing) Please, you're flattering me. WENDEBI : (Looking at the entrance to then den) I better leave you two alone now, 'cause I see there's someone here who wishes to visit after a long day's border patrol. (Wendebi turned and started towards the exit of the den. She spoke as Orkam passed her.) WENDEBI : (bowing) Congratulations, Your Majesty ! ORKAM : Thank you. You may leave. (Wendebi left the den.) ORKAM : (Standing next to Eliche) How are you dear ? ELICHI : I'm fine, just tired. Orkam, say hello to your new daughter, Botse. (Orkam looked at his daughter and nuzzled Eliche.) ORKAM : She truly lives up to her name, doesn't she ? ELICHE : She sure does. [FADE TO BLACK] ----------------------- SCENE 2 : A NEW ARRIVAL ----------------------- [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (A 6 months has passed since the birth and Botse has grown into little troublemaker. Eliche and Orkam was laying outside under the shade of a tree. Botse was busy trying to catch her father's tail.) ORKAM : Isn't it a beautiful day today ? ELICHE : About as beautiful as our daughter. ORKAM : Impossible, nothing is more beautiful than our daughter. ELICHE : (sighing) True....true. (Botse succeeded in catching her father's tail and bit down hard.) ORKAM : OUCH!, Hey watch your teeth, their getting sharp. BOTSE : Sorry dad. ORKAM : Don't worry about it. ELICHE : Botse, stop bothering your father and go and play with the other cubs. BOTSE : Okay mom. (Botse ran off to play with the other the cubs. Orkam looked at Eliche very strangely.) ORKAM : You must have a pretty good reason for chasing her off, I really enjoy being around our daughter. ELICHE : Yes I have a reason, she is getting older now and I just think that she should spend more time with cubs her own age. ORKAM : Uh-huh, you call that a reason. ELICHE : Actually, no. ORKAM : Then what is your good reason. (Eliche whispered something in his ear and Orkam's eyes grew wide.) ORKAM : Your kidding, right? ELICHE : No I'm not. ORKAM : I'm gonna be a father, again ? ELICHE : That's right. ORKAM : Are you sure ? ELICHE : I'm positive. ORKAM : (snaps back quickly) Only fools are positive. ELICHE : Are you sure ? ORKAM : I'm positive....(realizing)I can't believe I fell for the oldest trick in the book. ELICHE : (smiling in her victory) Like I always say, "Mess with the best, die like the rest". ORKAM : Has anybody ever told you what a great philosopher you are ? ELICHE : I've heard it a million times. ORKAM : Well now you've heard it a million and one times. ELICHE : Don't remind me. ORKAM : So what are we gonna tell Botse ? ELICHE : You mean, what are you "gonna" tell her ? ORKAM : Hey, it's bad enough that I use bad English, don't you start as well. And what do you mean, what I'm I going to tell her ? ELICHE : Seeing, that you are the father and that you two get along so well I figured it would best for her to hear about it from you. ORKAM : Fine, why do I even bother to compete against you. (Orkam got up.) ELICHE : Well you know what I always say... ORKAM : (Interrupting) Don't even say it. ELICHE : Are you sure you don't want to hear it ? ORKAM : I'm positive...(Realizing again) DOPE ! (Orkam left as Eliche burst out into laughter. Wendebi approaches.) WENDEBI : Boy, he looks steamed. Let me guess, you got the better of him...Again! ELICHE : You've got that right. WENDEBI : Why do you do that ? Do you like humiliating him ? ELICHE : I wouldn't call it humiliation. WENDEBI : Then what would you call it. ELICHE : How about gullible ? (They both broke out into laughter.) [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, PRIDE LANDS] (Botse was busy playing with three of her friends. As she played she saw her father waiting for her under a tree.) BOTSE : If you would excuse me "ladies", it looks like my dad wants a word with me. CUB 1 : What have you done this time ? BOTSE : Don't ask me, I only live here. CUB 2 : Hopefully you won't bring us into this. BOTSE : Don't worry I won't. CUB 3 : Better go before get in deeper trouble. BOTSE : Hey who says I'M the one in trouble. It might be one of you. (They all fell quiet.) BOTSE : I thought so, we all have a guilty conscience. What the hell, let's see who it is. CUB 1 : The way you're talking, it's definitely going to be you. BOTSE : Excuse my language and me if you would "ladies". CUB 3 : As you wish, "YOUR MAJESTY !" BOTSE : Don't start with that again. CUB 2 : Go on, your king is waiting. BOTSE : Whatever. (Botse left her friends and joined her father under the tree.) ORKAM : What were you girls talking about ? BOTSE : Just about some stuff. ORKAM : Oh really ? BOTSE : (with great concern) Am I in trouble again ? ORKAM : I don't know, should you be ? BOTSE : (lying) Nothing I know of. ORKAM : Then you have nothing to worry about, do you ? BOTSE : I guess not...Okay if I'm not in trouble, then who is ? Is it one of my friends ? ORKAM : Must they be in trouble ? BOTSE : Why do you do that ? ORKAM : Do what ? BOTSE : Answer my question with a question. ORKAM : Just an old trick I learned from your mother. BOTSE : (confused) Okay. ORKAM : You wanna know the real reason I called wanted to talk to you ? BOTSE : That would help, now wouldn't it. ORKAM : (a bit stern) Don't take that tongue up with me young lady. (Orkam started to laugh) ORKAM : Why can't I stay angry with you ? BOTSE : 'Cause I'm beautiful. ORKAM : True. Where did you learn to talk back like that ? BOTSE : I learned from the master. ORKAM : Why, thank you. BOTSE : Not you...Mom. ORKAM : I see...Well anyway, I wanna ask you a question. BOTSE : What's stopping you ? ORKAM : (ignoring her remark) Did you ever want a brother or sister ? BOTSE : More than ever. ORKAM : Then your wish is granted. BOTSE : (great excitement) You mean I'm "gonna" have a brother or sister ? ORKAM : Nobody uses bad English here, except me. And yes, you are going to have a brother or a sister. BOTSE : (jumping around with joy) Yes!, Oh goody. (Stopping suddenly and looking at her father) Okay this is great and all, but where do babies come from. ORKAM : Well... (Orkam was thinking of what to tell his daughter when something clicked inside his head.) ORKAM : Why don't you go and ask your mother, (pulling his daughter closer) but if she asks.... [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Eliche and Wendebi are laying under the same tree as before, enjoying conversation as usual. Botse approached them.) WENDEBI : Then she said... BOTSE : (Interrupting) Hi mom, auntie Weni. WENDEBI : Hello beautiful. BOTSE : That's me...Mom, can I ask you a question ? ELICHE : Sure. BOTSE : Where do babies come from ? ELICHE : Well....uh...why don't you ask your father about it ? BOTSE : He said I must ask you ? ELICHE : Now why would he say something like that ? BOTSE : Well he said you are the "Master". WENDEBI : Looks like he finally got you Eliche. ELICHE : (yelling) ORKAM!!! [FADE TO BLACK] ----------------------------- SCENE 3 : GUEST FROM THE WEST ----------------------------- [FADE IN, WESTERN BORDER OF THE PRIDE LANDS] (Orkam was busy making his daily rounds and was heading along the western border of the Pride Lands, when suddenly he heard someone yelling.) VOICE : HELP ! (Orkam looked over the border seeing a lioness approaching at full speed. As she reached Orkam she slowed down to a halt.) LIONESS : Please help me. ORKAM : What's wrong ? LIONESS : Some hyenas are chasing me. ORKAM : What are you doing in their lands ? LIONESS : (pleading) Please save me, I'm bearing cubs...Please save US. ORKAM : Quickly. Come into my lands, you will be safe here. (The lioness quickly crossed the border as some hyenas approached the border.) HYENA : Hand her over. ORKAM : Jembulika, I should have known that it was you chasing a harmless lioness. JEMBULIKA : She was trying to steal our food. So hand her over or else... ORKAM : Or else what... JEMBULIKA : (Looking at one of the other Hyenas) Would you please teach the king a lesson in reasoning. (The hyena nodded and suddenly attacked Orkam. The hyena bit Orkam on the hind leg and ripped him open and red crimson blood started to pour out of the wound. Orkam roared in pain and hit the hyena full force through the face with claws out, ripping open the hyena's face also making him bleed. The hyena, barely alive crawled back over the border.) JEMBULIKA : What do you think you're doing get back there and finish your job. HYENA : (very weak) I can't. JEMBULIKA : What was that...you can't. (Looking at another hyena) Balela, Show him what we do with quitters. (Balela attacked the half-dead hyena and made him fully dead.) JEMBULIKA : (to other hyenas) Let this be a lesson to all of you, never ever quit. (To Orkam) As for you kingy, I will be back for you. ORKAM : (still out of breath) You know where to find me. (The hyenas left and Orkam turned to the unknown visitor.) ORKAM : Why would you try to steal food from the hyenas ? LIONESS : If you haven't eaten as long as I have, you would do the same. ORKAM : Fine...What's your name ? LIONESS : They call me Arreis. ORKAM : Well, Arreis your lucky to be alive after what you did with the hyenas. ARREIS : Thanks for saving my life and the lives of my cubs. ORKAM : Your quite welcome, you may stay in my lands until things cool down with the hyenas. ARREIS : I don't know how much to thank you. ORKAM : Don't mention it. ARREIS : (Looking at Orkam's wound) Will you be alright ? ORKAM : Don't worry it's only a scratch. ARREIS : Looks painful. ORKAM : I had worse. Come on, let me show you my lands. (Orkam completed his rounds for the day, showing Arreis all the beauties of the Pride Lands. When dusk approached, Orkam and Arreis arrived at Pride Rock.) ARREIS : You live here ? ORKAM : Yes. ARREIS : It is absolutely beautiful. ORKAM : I wanted to save the best for last. ARREIS : Believe me, you did. (Orkam led Arreis to the den, all the lionesses were assembled in the den discussing the nights hunt.) ORKAM : I'm back ! ELICHE : (sarcastically) Who cares ? ORKAM : Please dear, hold your sarcasm for later, we have a guest. (Eliche walked over to Arreis.) ELICHE : Greetings. I am Eliche, queen of these lands. ARREIS : I am honored to finally meet you, your husband has been talking about you the whole day. ELICHE : Oh he has, has he ? (Noticing the wound on Orkam's leg) What the hell happened to you ? ORKAM : Watch your language, there are cubs present. ELICHE : Sorry. Now are going to tell us what happened or do we have to guess ? ORKAM : Can't this wait till after the hunt ? ELICHE : Either you tell me or you go hungry tonight. ORKAM : Fine, I will tell you. (Orkam told everybody about the events that occurred on the Western border.) ELICHE : Jembulika, that is just like him. ORKAM : I know. ELICHE : (to Arreis) Welcome to our lands and congratulations on your pregnancy. ARREIS : Thank you. ELICHE : (to other lionesses) Well what are we waiting for ladies, the king is "wasting" away, let's go and hunt. (All the lionesses left the den for the hunt, leaving Orkam and Arreis with all the cubs.) ORKAM : You must excuse my wife, she has this little attitude problem. ARREIS : I noticed. ORKAM : I hope you enjoy cub sitting, there is quiet a number of them. (All the cubs swarmed Orkam and Arreis) [FADE TO BLACK] -------------------- SCENE 4 : THE BIRTHS -------------------- [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (A year has passed since Botse's birth and she's still as beautiful as ever. Through the months everybody started to love Arreis and all couldn't wait for the special day when she and Eliche would give birth to new cubs. Arreis and Eliche were busy talking in the coolness of the den.) ELICHE : ...it was absolutely wonderful. ARREIS : But I hear that it is very painful. ELICHE : Of course, childbirth could be a real killer at sometimes, but it is really worth all the pain. ARREIS : Yeah, you should know. You must be very proud of Botse. ELICHE : Oh, I am. ARREIS : I still can believe how she retained her beauty while growing up. ELICHE : Must be the name. ARREIS : (confused) Her name ? ELICHE : Don't tell me you haven't studied the ancient language. ARREIS : (lowering her head in shame) No, never. ELICHE : Well that is just something we have remedy. ARREIS : You mean you will teach me the ancient language ? ELICHE : If you want to learn, you must learn from the master. ARREIS : And who might that be ? ELICHE : The one sitting in front of you. ARREIS : Have I ever told you "Thank you" for everything. ELICHE : I've lost count. ARREIS : You were talking about your daugther's name. ELICHE : Oh yeah, I almost forgot. Anyway because she was so beautiful at birth, I thought that the appropriate name must show her beauty and so I chose the name Botse, which means... WENDEBI : (interrupting) Beautiful. ELICHE : (getting a scare) Where did you come from ? WENDEBI : You don't want to know....I see you're boring our guest to death with that story how you came up with you daughter's name. ELICHE : Hey you enjoyed it when I "First" told you, miss "I don't know the language". And just for the record Arreis is not our guest, she's part of this pride. (Wendebi kept quiet immediately.) ELICHE : That's better, you may lay down or do wish to stand the whole day. WENDEBI : Whatever... (Wendebi made herself comfortable.) WENDEBI : So what are you going to call your new cub Eliche ? ELICHE : Let me see...If it's a boy, I will let my daughter decide a name. And if it's a girl, Orkam will decide. WENDEBI : (sighing) Oh boy, another idiotic custom. ELICHE : Not actually, I just want to give them a chance as well. WENDEBI : Uh-huh, (to Arreis) What about you ? ARREIS : I don't know...If it is a boy, I know he will be mighty as his father was... ELICHE : (thinking) Mighty...That would be Namandla. ARREIS : Perfect. WENDEBI : And if it is a girl ? ARREIS : If it is a girl...she will always be my little flower. WENDEBI : (to Eliche) Correct me if I'm wrong, but that would be Imbali. ELICHE : Very good, you're learning fast. ARREIS : Then that would be it. Namandla, if it's a boy and Imbali if it's a girl. ELICHE : You will be a great mother, (sarcastically) Are you sure this is you first time. ARREIS : Why the hell do you think I'm scared .... WENDEBI : Hey, watch your language. ARREIS : Sorry, bad habit I picked up from the father. ELICHE : You never told us why you left home ? ARREIS : If I told you, you both will explode with laughter...Okay, fine I will tell you... (Just as Arreis wanted to start her story, Eliche cried out in pain.) ARREIS : I haven't even started and it already looks like your going to explode. ELICHE : (in pain) This is no time to make jokes, I'm going into labor. WENDEBI : (to Arreis) Arreis, go and find the king and his daughter. I think they are at the waterhole. ARREIS : Right away. (Arreis ran out the den, going at full speed to the waterhole. She found Orkam and Botse quenching their thirst.) ARREIS : (out of breath) Your Majesty! Come quick, your wife has gone into labor. ORKAM : Let's go. (Meanwhile back in the den, Eliche's labor pains finally gave way and her water broke. As Orkam returned, Eliche gave birth. Like before Wendebi cleaned of the newborn and gives it to Eliche.) WENDEBI : You're the mother of a beautiful son. (looking at Orkam and Botse) I think I better leave you all alone. (Wendebi passed Arreis and nudged her.) WENDEBI : That goes for you too. ARREIS : Coming. (Wendebi and Arreis exits the den. Orkam and Botse walked closer to Eliche.) ELICHE : (very tired) You can come closer than that. (to Botse) Say hello to you new brother. (to Orkam) Say hello to your new son. BOTSE : He is absolutely beautiful, what are you going to name him. ELICHE : I leave that honors to you. BOTSE : Me, why me? ELICHE : I have decided that a long time ago, if it is a boy, you can name him and if it was a girl, then you father would have to choose a name. BOTSE : (looking at her brother) I don't know, by the looks of him, he will always be a hero in my eyes. ELICHE : That's an great idea, we can name him Umuntu, which means hero. ORKAM : (to his newborn son) Hi there, my little hero. (A week later, Arreis was walking near the western border when she suddenly went into labor. She roared out in pain as her water broke.) Meanwhile... (On the other side of the border a small hyena group was scavenging for food.) FEMALE HYENA : Hey Jemmi, did you hear that ? JEMBULIKA : Bele, how many times must I tell you not to call me that. BELE : Sorry brother, but did you hear that roar. JEMBULIKA : I sure did, let's investigate should we. BELE : Yes, let's. Back on the other side of the border... (After a long labor period, Arreis finally gave birth to two cubs. As she was busy cleaning them off the hyenas approached.) JEMBULIKA : Awwww, ain't this too cute ? BELE : NOT! (The hyenas broke out in laughter.) JEMBULIKA : Well, well if it isn't the thief. ARREIS : (begging for her life) Please, don't attack. I just gave birth. BELE : Look deep into to our eyes and spot the worry. ARREIS : But what about my cubs ? BELE : Don't worry, we'll take good care of them ? (Arreis got up in anger) ARREIS : (Furious) YOU LEAVE THEM ALONE ! BELE : (to Jembulika) She has one major attitude problem, should we teach her a lesson in manners. JEMBULIKA : Why not ? Attack that bitch. (Arreis eyes grew wide as the hyenas attacked her. They ripped her open in many places and her blood started to stain her beautiful fur coat. She tried to fight back, but she was still exhausted from the birth. She was quickly pinned. As one of the hyenas went for her throat a voice commanded.) JEMBULIKA : STOP! (The hyena backed off, but Arreis was still pinned to the ground by many more.) JEMBULIKA : We can't let her off that easy. HYENA : But sir, hasn't she suffered enough ? JEMBULIKA : Are you questioning my authority ? Wake up and smell the fresh kill, she try to steal from us and that is a major no-no. According to our laws she must suffer a terrible death. HYENA : But... JEMBULIKA : (interrupting) And may I also remind you that anyone trying to interfere with the execution of our laws will be punished in the same way. Do I make myself clear ? HYENA : Crystal. JEMBULIKA : Good, now get back in ranks. (to Arreis) You have committed a terrible crime in our lands, you tried to steal what we have rightfully stolen and therefore you must pay the price. ARREIS : Please don't do this. JEMBULIKA : Shut up, I'm busy talking here. ARREIS : But... JEMBULIKA : You just don't want to listen, well we can fix that quickly. (Jembulika nodded at one of the hyenas on top of Arreis. The hyena complied and ripped off one off Arreis's ears. Arreis let out a terrible cry of pain.) JEMBULIKA : Now are you gonna listen ? ARREIS : You bastard. JEMBULIKA : Have it your way. (He nodded again and Arreis's other ear went in the same way. Once again she let out a horrible cry of pain.) JEMBULIKA : (rubbing one of his ears with his paw) Boy, you have one great set of vocal chords. (Arreis didn't answer) JEMBULIKA : You're learning fast. (To hyenas) Now that we have that little hearing problem solved, should we continue ? (All the hyenas started to laugh) JEMBULIKA : I take that as a yes, you know what just occurred to me... She stole food from us, and I want it back. Rip her open ! (They ripped a large hole across Arreis's stomach, but she didn't have the power to scream anymore. She started to choke on her own blood.) JEMBULIKA : (to Arreis) You wanted to say something ? ARREIS : (pleading in a weak voice) Please have mercy, stop my suffering. JEMBULIKA : You know, you're a real spoilsport, but have it your way. (to hyenas) Okay you may finish her off. (One of the hyenas crushed Arreis's skull with his powerful jaws and her suffering was finally over.) BELE : Okay, we punished her. But what about the cubs ? JEMBULIKA : Leave them to the vultures. BELE : You are very evil. JEMBULIKA : Why, Thank you. (The hyenas crossed the invisible border and headed towards their dark home in the west.) [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------ SCENE 5 : ADOPTION ------------------ [FADE IN, WESTERN BORDER] (As soon as the hyenas were gone some of lions approached at full speed.) ORKAM : This is where the screams came from, but I don't see anything. WENDEBI : (Seeing Arreis's body) Oh my God, I think I'm going to be sick. ELICHE : Who is that ? WENDEBI : It looks like Arreis. ELICHE : (heartbroken) No. WENDEBI : I'm afraid it is... ELICHE : This can't be, what about her cubs ? ORKAM : (pointing at two figures in the grass) Look there, I think she did give birth. ELICHE : By the looks of them, they are very hungry. (Eliche went over to the two helpless infants and started to give them milk.) ORKAM : What are you doing ? ELICHE : If we don't help them, they will starve. ORKAM : We better leave the scene before the jackals and vultures arrive. WENDEBI : Who could do such a brutal thing ? ORKAM : I only have one idea... (The lions returned to the den, where Botse was looking after her little brother.) BOTSE : So what was the screaming about ? (Eliche went over to her daughter and whispered something in her ear. Tears started to form in Botse's eyes.) BOTSE : Good God, who can be so cruel ? ORKAM : Rather we not discuss that now. The thing we have to discuss is, what are we going to do about Arreis's cubs. ELICHE : We have no choice, we will have to adopt them as our own. ORKAM : We don't actually have a choice, but not a word is said to them when they grow older. ELICHE : Agreed. How about you Botse, are okay with this ? BOTSE : Don't worry about me, I always wanted a baby sister. ORKAM : Well you have one now, but what are we going to name them. WENDEBI : Arreis already chose names. Namandla if it is a boy and Imbali if it is a girl. ORKAM : Then we respect her wishes and name them accordingly. ELICHE : You actually realize that we would have to tell Umuntu about this when his old enough to understand. ORKAM : I know. (The day turned into night and great roars of sorrow came from Pride Rock saying a final farewell in the memory of Arreis.) [FADE TO BLACK] 3 MONTHS LATER -------------------------- SCENE 6 : THE TROUBLEMAKER -------------------------- [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Umuntu, Namandla and Imbali has grown into three strong cubs. Umuntu, like his sister was very beautiful. Umuntu and Namandla was busy playing with each other while Imbali was busy talking to Botse.) BOTSE : ...so that is what I used to do when I was young. IMBALI : So your were also a bit naughty when you were young ? BOTSE : We're all like that when we're young. IMBALI : True enough. Do you have any idea how I can annoy our brothers ? BOTSE : Have you ever heard about "attitude" ? IMBALI : Not actually, but I hear daddy sometime say that mom has a major attitude problem, I always wanted to know what that meant. BOTSE : Let me give you a few pointers... (Botse taught Imbali a few phrases of what to say and when to say it. Meanwhile Namandla was thinking of some new things to get into trouble.) UMUNTU : Hey Nami, what are you thinking about ? NAMANDLA : Just about some things. UMUNTU : Well don't hurt yourself. NAMANDLA : (not impressed) Very funny. Hey "pretty boy" I got an idea. UMUNTU : How many times have I told you not to call me that ? NAMANDLA : Oh, I'm sorry "pretty boy". UMUNTU : (turning around and walking away) That's it I don't want anything to do with your stupid ideas. NAMANDLA : Umi, wait I'm sorry, I just can't help myself. UMUNTU : Okay, fine. Just don't call me that again. NAMANDLA : Okay, okay. UMUNTU : Now what's that idea of yours. (Namandla leant over whispering something in Umuntu's ear.) UMUNTU : I like that, but can't we get into to trouble for that. NAMANDLA : You're only in trouble if you get caught. UMUNTU : Let's do it. (Botse finished her quick lesson in attitude.) BOTSE : Now you can really annoy your brothers. (looking around) Talking about your brothers, where are they ? IMBALI : In their fur. BOTSE : Don't try that new attitude with me. IMBALI : Sorry, just practicing. BOTSE : Well find your brothers and practice it on them. IMBALI : Sure thing. (Imbali ran off in search of her brothers.) BOTSE : (to herself) I better follow her. (Meanwhile at the waterhole, Namandla and Umuntu was busy talking about Namandla's great idea.) UMUNTU : Okay I'm all for scaring Imbali, but how exactly are we going to do that ? NAMANDLA : Remember that story mom told us about what will happen if we go alone to the waterhole ? UMUNTU : You mean that one about the mud monster... NAMANDLA : Exactly. UMUNTU : You and I both know that it's not true. NAMANDLA : Yeah, but Bali doesn't know. UMUNTU : I catch your drift, what must we do ? NAMANDLA : Okay, by now she will probably be looking for us, so we must hurry. I will be the "fierce" mud monster. UMUNTU : Question. How do you plan on being the monster ? NAMANDLA : Easy, watch this... (Namandla jumped into the waterhole and came up after a few seconds.) UMUNTU : (being sarcastic) Hey, we all have to drink here you know. NAMANDLA : (getting out) Shut up, Ok. UMUNTU : I always knew that you were all wet. NAMANDLA : Enough already. (Namandla quickly rolled in the dirt making his coat a big mess.) UMUNTU : Mom's not going to be happy...Look how dirty you are. NAMANDLA : Oh, who cares ? (Namandla stop rolling in the dirt, now his coat was all muddy.) NAMANDLA : Presto, A Mud Monster. UMUNTU : Cool. Okay what to I have to do ? NAMANDLA : Once I start scaring Bali, the chances that she will start backing up are very good. UMUNTU : I'm listening. NAMANDLA : Once she starts backing up towards the waterhole, I will make sure she does, then you lay flat behind her. When she backs up against you, she will trip and fall into the waterhole. UMUNTU : Then we make a run for it. NAMANDLA : No duh! UMUNTU : Another question, how do we get her here ? NAMANDLA : Easy, you will lure her here. UMUNTU : How exactly do I do that ? NAMANDLA : Use your brain...oh sorry I forgot you're brainless. UMUNTU : You're cruising for a bruising. NAMANDLA : I'm really scared, anyway just let her follow you. As soon as you reach the waterhole, duck into one of the bushes. (Umuntu ran off in search of Imbali. He found her looking around herself. Umuntu did a good job in ignoring Imbali and just walking by with a nod.) IMBALI : Hey Umi wait. (He didn't answer and just kept on walking.) IMBALI : Umi wait up. (Imbali started to follow Umuntu towards the waterhole.) IMBALI : Umi, you know what mom said about going alone to the waterhole. (Umuntu still ignored her and as he reached the waterhole he quickly ducked into the nearest bush. Imbali approached the waterhole.) IMBALI : (looking around) Come out Umi, I know your hiding somewhere. Don't you remember what mom said about the waterhole ? (Suddenly Namandla jumped out from behind a rock) NAMANDLA : (a deep hoarse voice) Now I've got you. (Imbali screamed with fright and started to back up towards the waterhole. Umuntu came out behind her, as planned, and laid down. Imbali tripped over Umuntu and tumbled into the waterhole.) NAMANDLA : Come on let's split. (Namandla and Umuntu started to run away only to be blocked by the huge body of their sister.) BOTSE : And where do you think you two are going ? UMUNTU : (to Namandla) We're in trouble. BOTSE : You've got that in right. (looking at Namandla) You better go and clean that mud off you, before mom sees you. NAMANDLA : Yes, oh mighty boss-lady. BOTSE : (to Umuntu) Help your sister out of the waterhole and you better apologize. UMUNTU : Sure. (Namandla clean himself in the waterhole while Umuntu help Imbali out of the waterhole.) IMBALI : (still scared) It was the mud monster, I saw it. UMUNTU : No, you didn't. You saw Namandla, covered in a lot of mud. IMBALI : Why that little... UMUNTU : Sorry I tripped you. IMBALI : Don't worry, you'll always be my hero. (Botse approached as Namandla climbed out of the waterhole.) BOTSE : (to Umuntu and Namandla) Come on you two, time to go and see the King and Queen. UMUNTU : Aww come on sis, you're not going snitch on us are you ? BOTSE : If it's not me, it will be Bali. Who would rather explain to mom and dad. UMUNTU & NAMANDLA : You. BOTSE : I thought so, let's go. NAMANDLA : You know, your such a spoilsport. BOTSE : I try my best. (Namandla and Umuntu got into major trouble that night and got one long speech about how they should play nicely and respect their sister. But this was not like any other speech, Orkam was extremely furious this time and he did what he thought he would never do, and that is yelling at his children. After the speech Namandla walked out the den only to see Botse's smiling face.) BOTSE : How was the speech ? NAMANDLA : (narrowing his eyes) One day your going to pay for what you did to me ? BOTSE : I'm shaking in my fur. NAMANDLA : (very bitter) You better. [FADE TO BLACK] -------------------------------- SCENE 7 : THE TRUTH MUST BE TOLD -------------------------------- [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (The night went by slowly and when the moon was at its highest Eliche awoke, only to find that Orkam was not next to her. She got up and walked outside and the cool breeze of the midnight air passed through her golden brown fur. She looked up at the very top of Pride Rock and there he was, Orkam looking out over the land, which is covered by the dark blanket of the night. She went up, only to see the sad face of the mighty king whom sat before her.) ELICHE : What's wrong ? Are you thinking of your brother again ? ORKAM : No. ELICHE : Is it Namandla ? (Orkam nodded.) ELICHE : Tell me what's bothering you. ORKAM : There's something not right with that boy, I feel it in my bones. ELICHE : Come on, we've all learned to love him...Okay sometimes he causes a bit of trouble... ORKAM : (interrupting) A bit ? How about all the time ? (Bowing his head) He made me do something I never wanted to do and that was to yell at my son. I feel so ashamed, but he just went to far this time. ELICHE : I know it is hard for you, but it is also hard for him. ORKAM : (getting a bit angry) Enough ! I had enough of his troublemaking. He is corrupting my son's mind and I won't have that. ELICHE : Just give him another chance. ORKAM : Why are you always defending him ? I know that he is Arreis's son but he will never be like her. ELICHE : (pleading) Please just one more chance. ORKAM : Okay, ONE more chance. But I won't let him corrupt our son anymore. ELICHE : And how do you plan on doing that ? ORKAM : I think it is time that I tell our son who his brother really is. ELICHE : Don't you think it is a little early for that ? ORKAM : If I don't do it now, it might be too late. ELICHE : Okay, have it your way. I know we're not supposed to, but I would like to tell Imbali about this too. ORKAM : Out of the question. We all swore that we will never reveal the secret to one of them. ELICHE : But I think she can handle it. ORKAM : If you think she can handle it, then you explain it to her. 'Cause won't have anything to do with this. ELICHE : Fine, when are you going to talk to our son ? ORKAM : As soon as possible...Tomorrow morning will be perfect. ELICHE : Then I will do the same. Now please come in, it's getting cold. ORKAM : Okay let's go. (Orkam led the way and Eliche followed slowly.) ELICHE : (to herself) I better take Botse along as well. (The rest of the night passed quickly as the red face of dawn kissed the surface of Pride Rock. Orkam was sitting on the promontory, looking at the perfect splendor of the morning sun. Eliche came up behind him.) ELICHE : I can see you were up before the sun. Are you really that eager to tell our son ? ORKAM : Don't start, you're already ruining a perfect morning. ELICHE : Sorry. Should we go ? ORKAM : Yes, let's. Be careful not to wake Namandla. ELICHE : I'll try my best. (Orkam just glared at her.) ELICHE : Don't worry. I'm a hunter, remember, a hunter walks softly, not being heard. Hello anybody home. (looking into her husband's unimpressed face, realizing that her plan backfired) Sorry, I was just trying to cheer you up. (Orkam started to smile.) ORKAM : (starting to laugh) Gotcha. ELICHE : Why you...Trying to trick the master, huh ? (She tackled him, pinning him to the ground.) ELICHE : As you can see, I'm the master at everything. ORKAM : (seductively) Everything ? ELICHE : Everything. ORKAM : Okay, prove it. ELICHE : Just tell me when and where. ORKAM : How about tonight, let's say at the field near the waterhole. ELICHE : I'm there, you better be. ORKAM : Okay enough of that, let's get this over with. (Orkam and Eliche went into the den with great stealth. Eliche silently nudged Botse and Imbali. When they finally awoke, Eliche motioned them to follow her. They both got up and followed her. Meanwhile in the other side of the den, Orkam was struggling to wake his son without waking Namandla in the attempt. He finally decided that it will be impossible to wake Umuntu without waking Namandla. Then he quickly picked up Umuntu in his mouth and to his surprise, he didn't wake up and neither did Namandla. Orkam walked out of the den with Umuntu in his mouth. Namandla opened his one eye and saw Orkam walking out with Umuntu.) NAMANDLA : (thinking to himself) Now where are they going, I better follow. Maybe Umi is in more trouble than I thought and I want to be there when dad gets angry with him. (Namandla quickly got up and followed Orkam at a distance. Meanwhile in another part of the Pride Lands, Eliche was sitting under a tree with her daughter and adopted daughter. Imbali was busy playing with a bug while Botse sat by her mother.) BOTSE : Mom, why did you wake us up so early ? ELICHE : It is time to tell your sister what happened three months ago. BOTSE : But mom, we all swore. ELICHE : I won't tell, if you won't. BOTSE : But what about dad ? ELICHE : I have already discussed it with him, perhaps with a little persuasion, but that's beside the point. IMBALI : (approaching) Okay, mom there must be a reason for us being alone here so early. ELICHE : Imbali, there is something that we must discuss with you. BOTSE : (whispering to Eliche) Mom this was your idea, don't drag me into this. ELICHE : I can't do this on my own. BOTSE : Okay, I will help. ELICHE : (to Imbali) Imbali, I want you to listen closely to what we have to say... (Imbali listened as Eliche and Botse told her about her real mother. She was full of tears when she heard what happened to her mother. It was a long and sad tale, which Imbali found hard to swallow.) IMBALI : (in tears) I always thought there was something different about me. So that means that I really don't have brothers or sisters, I'm just an orphan. ELICHE : That's not true, you are part of our family now... BOTSE : ...and we all love you very much. IMBALI : You mean it ? ELICHE : Of course we do, we wouldn't have told you about your past if we didn't love you. IMBALI : (hugging Eliche) You'll always be my mom. (to Botse) And you my sister. BOTSE : There is more. IMBALI : I don't think I can take. BOTSE : It won't be easy for you to hear this, but you must. You have a brother. IMBALI : I know, I have two. ELICHE : What your sister means is, that you have a real brother. IMBALI : You mean I wasn't a only child ? BOTSE : Of course not. IMBALI : Then who is it ? ELICHE : Namandla is your brother. IMBALI : Namandla ? Then why isn't he here to hear this as well. ELICHE : (very serious) Listen to me, it is very important that your brother doesn't know about this. He won't be able to handle it and it will tear him up. IMBALI : Okay. We all know what men are like. (They all burst into laughter.) ELICHE : (to Botse) I see that you've shared some of my great secrets with her. BOTSE : We always can always do with more attitude in this family. ELICHE : Okay, let's put this nonsense aside for now. (to Botse) I want to ask you favor. BOTSE : Anything. ELICHE : If you catch Namandla doing anything wrong again, please don't report it to your father. You already saw what happened last night and he is getting pretty fed up with all of this. BOTSE : No problem. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, ANOTHER PART OF THE PRIDE LANDS] (Orkam was still walking with Umuntu in his mouth. Umuntu slowly woke up only to notice the moving ground below him. He looked up and saw that he was held gently in his father's mouth.) UMUNTU : Uh..Dad. You know I can walk on my own, I've been doing since I was a month old. (Kneeling down, Orkam gently released his grip an dropped Umuntu on the ground.) ORKAM : I see you're finally awake. You know, you sleep like a rock. UMUNTU : I try my best. (Orkam and Umuntu finally stopped at the waterhole and slowly drank from the cool water. Namandla silently approached and ducked into the bush behind Orkam.) UMUNTU : Okay, thanks and all for bringing me here dad. But the question that keeps popping up in my mind is : why? ORKAM : Before I say my part, you must promise me that you will never mention this to your brother. UMUNTU : Why ? ORKAM : Please trust me and promise me that you will never tell your brother. UMUNTU : I promise. ORKAM : There's a good boy. You've properly been wondering why I choose you as heir to the throne and not your brother. UMUNTU : I've been meaning to ask you about that. He is much stronger and smarter than I am. NAMANDLA : (thinking to himself) True enough. ORKAM : I can't choose someone that is not my son. UMUNTU : (shocked) WHAT !!?? ORKAM : Namandla is not your brother. UMUNTU : Your kidding, tell me your kidding. ORKAM : Look into my eyes and tell me if I'm kidding. (Umuntu look into his father's eyes) UMUNTU : Your not kidding...If he is not my brother, then who is he ? ORKAM : Three months ago... (Orkam told the whole story in detail.) UMUNTU : Then Imbali isn't my sister ? ORKAM : No, we adopted both of them and took them in as our own. UMUNTU : If I'm not allowed to tell Namandla, can I tell Imbali ? ORKAM : She already knows, your mother told her this morning. We better go. Remember, this never happened. UMUNTU : What never happened ? ORKAM : That's my boy. (Orkam and Umuntu left. Once they were gone Namandla exploded into tears.) NAMANDLA : (to himself) WHY ?! Why is this happening to me... (Namandla didn't notice the hyena that was in the bushes. The hyena turned around and headed back home.) NAMANDLA : (to himself) Come on, pull yourself together man. You can pull through this. I better let nobody know about this. (With that he headed back home. Meanwhile just across the western border. Jembulika and his small hunting party was laying around doing nothing. Bele came up behind Jembulika.) BELE : Jemmi, what are we doing here ? JEMBULIKA : Waiting. BELE : I know that, but for what ? (Balela came over the hill.) JEMBULIKA : At last. (Balela came up to them.) JEMBULIKA : What the hell took you so long ? BALELA : Sorry I got lost. BELE : I see that you have already perfected lying. BALELA : Shut up. JEMBULIKA : ENOUGH! Tell me what have you learned. (Balela whispered something in Jembulika's ear.) JEMBULIKA : That's good. (to All) Everybody listen up, I got a great idea.... [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (It was nearly nightfall, Orkam and Eliche met at the fields just beyond the waterhole as planned.) ELICHE : So how did it go today ? ORKAM : He took it very well. How about Imbali ? ELICHE : She also took it well. ORKAM : (changing the subject) Didn't you have something to prove to me ? ELICHE : Yes, that I'm the master at everything. (The night passed slowly and Eliche proved to Orkam that she really was the best at EVERYTHING.) [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------- SCENE 8 : THE FIGHT ------------------- [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Like many mornings before the sun came up and started to warm the huge formation of Pride Rock. Umuntu, laying right at the back of the den, woke up shivering.) UMUNTU : (to himself with teeth chattering) Why is it so cold in here ? (Umuntu noticed that Namandla wasn't next to him as usual.) UMUNTU : No wonder, he's gone. (Umuntu walked out of the den. He sees his parents coming up the path and he runs to them.) UMUNTU : Morning. ORKAM : (very cheerful) G'morning son. UMUNTU : You're awfully cheerful today. ORKAM : Well I had a great night's rest for a change. UMUNTU : Uh...Okay. Have you seen Nami this morning ? ELICHE : You mean he's up already, we must have done something right yesterday. ORKAM : Hey, not in front of the kids. ELICHE : (ignoring Orkam) No, we haven't seen him. Why don't you go and look for him. Ask him if he's sick ? UMUNTU : (not getting the punchline) Why ? He seemed fine yesterday. ELICHE : Never mind, just run along. (As Umuntu ran off, Botse came out of the den.) BOTSE : (closing her eyes tightly) Ouch! Bright light. ELICHE : (approaching Botse) Morning dear. BOTSE : Morning mom. ELICHE : I know you just got up, but follow Umuntu quickly. BOTSE : Why ? ELICHE : Don't argue, I have a feeling something terrible is going to happen this morning. (With out a word Botse ran off, following her brother at a distance. Umuntu searched almost everywhere, but couldn't find Namandla. After one of searching, he finally found Namandla.) UMUNTU : (approaching Namandla) Hey Nami, what's up ? NAMANDLA : Nothing. UMUNTU : Tell me, are you sick or something ? NAMANDLA : What do you mean ? UMUNTU : You were awake before me and I was wondering if you're sick ? NAMANDLA : (narrowing his eyes) Get lost "pretty boy", I don't have time for your stupid jokes this morning. UMUNTU : Don't call me "pretty boy". NAMANDLA : Oh, I'm sorry "pretty boy", "pretty boy", "pretty boy", "pretty boy", "pretty boy", "pretty boy", "pretty boy"! UMUNTU : Hey shut up. NAMANDLA : Whatcha going to do about it, huh "pretty boy" ? UMUNTU : That's it. (Umuntu and Namandla started to fight furiously. Botse quickly approached.) BOTSE : HEY BREAK IT UP ! (They both ignored her and kept on fighting. She finally saw her chance and came in between them. They both stopped just before colliding with Botse.) BOTSE : STOP IT RIGHT NOW ! (Namandla tried to attack again. With her quick reactions, Botse struck Namandla in the face with the back of her paw.) BOTSE : I SAID ENOUGH ! (Namandla started to bleed from the mouth.) NAMANDLA : (With tears in his eyes) Now look what you've done! (Namandla started to run away.) BOTSE : Nami! Come back. I'm sorry. NAMANDLA : (crying) Leave me alone. UMUNTU : Shouldn't we go after him ? BOTSE : No, just let him cool off. He'll be back. We better not mention this to dad. UMUNTU : You mean your not going to snitch on us ? BOTSE : Let's just say this never happened. UMUNTU : What never happened ? BOTSE : Let's go home. (Botse and Umuntu started to walk back home. Meanwhile, some distance from them Namandla started to slow down. He didn't notice the hyena that was following him. He came near the western border and stopped to rest.) HYENA : (Approaching) Shame, has the poor baby lost a fight. NAMANDLA : (quickly jumping to his feet) Who are you to call me baby, "ugly" ? HYENA : You've got spirit for one so young. My name is Jembulika. NAMANDLA : What kind of stupid name is that ? JEMBULIKA : Not as stupid as "Namandla". NAMANDLA : How did you know my name ? JEMBULIKA : I've been watching you for a few days now. I have seen all the trouble you've been going through. Always getting in more trouble than you brother. NAMANDLA : Oh, you mean "pretty boy". (starting to cry again) For your information he's not my brother. JEMBULIKA : Tell old Jemmi about it. (Namandla started his long sad tale. After he was done Jembulika started to talk.) JEMBULIKA : What a shame. NAMANDLA : Yes it's so unfair, just because I'm not part of that stupid family, I'll never be king. JEMBULIKA : Tell me more about this Botse. NAMANDLA : Don't even start to talk about her. She's the one who always snitched on me. Then today she dared to hit me. I really want to get back at her for that, but she's so strong, I'll never defeat her. JEMBULIKA : Never say never. NAMANDLA : What, you know something that'll give super strength. JEMBULIKA : I got a proposal for you. NAMANDLA : I'm listening. JEMBULIKA : How would you like to be king and to get back Botse ? NAMANDLA : Is that even possible ? JEMBULIKA : Everything possible. Just come to the western border each day and I will train you personally. Starting tomorrow. NAMANDLA : Okay, I'll do it. JEMBULIKA : Now go home. Remember you never saw me. NAMANDLA : Saw who ? JEMBULIKA : My point exactly. Get out of here. (Namandla headed home as Jembulika disappeared into the shadows from which he came.) [FADE TO BLACK] ----------------------- SCENE 9 : A NEW RECRUIT ----------------------- [FADE IN, WESTERN BORDER] (It was early morning on the western border and the sun has just reached the border. Namandla approached the invisible border.) NAMANDLA : (calling)Hey Jumbo...Jombe...Jemba. JEMBULIKA : (suddenly appearing out of the shadows) Jembulika. NAMANDLA : Sorry. JEMBULIKA : Just call me Jemmi for now. NAMANDLA : Okay Jemmi. JEMBULIKA : I actually hate that name, but it's only until you can pronounce my name correctly. NAMANDLA : Sure thing. JEMBULIKA : Now that the names are sorted out, follow me. (Namandla followed Jembulika quite a distance then Jembulika stopped.) JEMBULIKA : (Calling) Okay guys, you can come out. It's only me. (All the sudden dozens of hyenas appeared out of nowhere. Bele approached.) BELE : Come on Jemmi, you got to be kidding me, this ball of fluff. NAMANDLA : Who's your ball of fluff, spotty ? BELE : I advise you not to anger me. NAMANDLA : What you gonna do about, huh spotty ? (Bele started to charge, but Jembulika stopped her.) JEMBULIKA : Don't damage the goods. BELE : Oh come on, let me hurt him. Just a little. JEMBULIKA : Later. Right now we got some business to attend too. BELE : Not again, you know how I hate that. JEMBULIKA : Too bad, I need you. (To Balela) Hey bro, look after our little guest and tell him what he wants to know. We are just going to the cave. BALELA : Again ? (whispering and looking at Namandla) But what if he asks about the cave ? JEMBULIKA : That's the only thing you can't tell him. (Without another word Jembulika and Bele started to travel to west.) NAMANDLA : Where are they going ? BALELA : They'll be back in a few hours. NAMANDLA : But when is my training going to start. BALELA : Are you that eager for punishment ? NAMANDLA : What do you mean "punishment" ? BALELA : Oh, did Jembulika fail to mention the details of the training. (Namandla nodded) BALELA : Well you'll find out later. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, RUINS OF KISASIAN'S DEN] (Jembulika and Bele approached the broken down formation of the once beautiful den.) BELE : Why do we always have to come here, you know this place freaks me out. JEMBULIKA : This is where gran died. BELE : Tell me again, why do you need me to contact her ? JEMBULIKA : For the ritual to work, we need a female of gran's bloodline and I'm sorry to say sis that you're the only female left of gran's bloodline. BELE : But what about Impele, she's our sister, isn't she ? JEMBULIKA : Hey, she's the leader of our pack and more important things to do. BELE : Fine, let's get this over with. (Jembulika started the ritual.) JEMBULIKA : OH GREAT GODS ABOVE AND BELOW I CALL THEE FOR A SPIRIT WHICH WE USED TO KNOW I PRESENT TO THEE A MAIDEN WITH THE BLOODLINE OF THE ONE I WISH TO SEE SO COME TO ME THE SPIRIT OF SHENZI THE HYENA WHO USED TO BE (Bele screamed with pain as something pierced her very soul. She got up and started to speak, but it was not her voice, it was the voice of Shenzi.) BELE : Well, If it isn't my favorite grandchild. JEMBULIKA : Hi gran, sorry it's been a while. BELE : Nonsense. You're always welcome to call me anytime you like. JEMBULIKA : Thanks gran. BELE : Now, what can I do for you child ? JEMBULIKA : Remember the last time I called you. It was just after we killed that thief. BELE : Ah yes, you made me laugh so much. I still can't believe the way you tortured her. JEMBULIKA : Hey, I learned from the best. BELE : That's true. JEMBULIKA : I got her son. BELE : What ? You better kill it and quickly. JEMBULIKA : Hear me out. This kid has got great potential. He totally hates his foster parents. BELE : Oh, and who might I ask is his foster parents? JEMBULIKA : Get this, his foster parents are the king and queen themselves. BELE : (starting to laugh) Oh this is priceless. JEMBULIKA : I was thinking of putting him through "The Training". BELE : (getting angry) Are you crazy ? He'll never survive it. JEMBULIKA : I think he can, and when he does, he will be able to help us all. BELE : (getting interested) In what way ? JEMBULIKA : What we always dreamed of, the thing you almost succeeded in. BELE : Oh, I see. But what do you need my help for ? JEMBULIKA : Okay, this is what I need... [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------------------ SCENE 10 : THE STORY COMES OUT ------------------------------ [FADE IN, LAND OF THE HYENAS] (Namandla was still waiting for Jembulika to return. Balela was at his side the whole time to make sure that Namandla doesn't wonder off to places where he doesn't belong.) NAMANDLA : How about a story while we wait ? BALELA : You got to be kidding me, a story ? NAMANDLA : Yes, that's what happens when we are bored, someone usually tells us a story. BALELA : But I don't know any stories. NAMANDLA : That's debatable. Okay, if not a story, how about some info 'bout the hyenas ? BALELA : What you wanna know ? NAMANDLA : Something has been bothering me, I remember someone once telling me the story of Kisasian's assault on Pride Rock... BALELA : Oh That's a classic tale. NAMANDLA : Anyway, nobody ever told me what happened to the hyenas afterwards. BALELA : You really wanna hear that old story ? NAMANDLA : So you do know some stories ? BALELA : Hey listen, most of the stories I do know is not fit for a cub of your age. NAMANDLA : Look deep into my eyes and spot the worry. I have heard some stories that'll make you puke. BALELA : That good huh ? Have it your way, I will tell you what happened. NAMANDLA : About time. BALELA : If you talk back one more time, I'll drown 'ya. NAMANDLA : I'm so scared. BALELA : (getting furious) If you say one more word, I'll scream. NAMANDLA : "One more word". (Balela screamed.) BALELA : (calming down) Your a real pain in the neck. You remind me of myself at your age. Never mind let's get this over and done with. Now listen closely. NAMANDLA : Believe me, I will. BALELA : Can you shut up, just once SHUT UP! (Namandla kept quiet.) BALELA : Thank you. NAMANDLA : Your welcome. (Balela screamed again.) BALELA : (screaming) SHUT UP! (All the other hyenas started to laugh at him.) BALELA : Let's just go somewhere else, before I kill someone today. (Namandla wanted to say something, but Balela interrupted.) BALELA : Not a word. Just follow me and keep quiet. (Balela led Namandla away from the other hyenas.) BALELA : Now, we can begin. Let me see now, my gran told me this a thousand times. NAMANDLA : Who's your gran ? BALELA : You won't know her. NAMANDLA : I bet I do. BALELA : Fine, anything to get out of arguing with you. Her name was Shenzi. NAMANDLA : I know her. She was one of the hyenas that was with Scar so many years ago. BALELA : You know your history kid, anyway these are the exact words my gran used when she told me this story : "It was the very day when Kisasian's mother ordered us to take out Vitani. After that terrible murder we decided so far and not further. I told Kisasian that we'll have no part in this meaningless slaughter anymore. He took it rather well, by threatening to break our necks if we came back again. So we left. We traveled further west hoping for some pride and joy. All thought the far west was beautiful, it just wasn't the place for us. Too many dangers which I don't wish to repeat in front of you. It has almost been two years and we finally returned to Kisasian's den, only to be welcomed by death. There it was the battlefield. Dead lions everywhere. The grass was stained a crimson red and though the battle was long finished, we could still hear the screams of the innocent whose blood has been spilled on this once beautiful land..." NAMANDLA : Sorry for the interruption, but that battlefield you're talking about, is the death of Thula's pride if I'm correct. But that was only four years back, how old are you now ? BALELA : If you really wanna know, I'm only two years old. Now please, let me finish : "...Now that there was plenty of food and no lions to worry about. So we decided to stay. But after few months came that bastard, Uvoko, and we had to hide. 'Cause we dealt with him before, when he lived in the Pride Lands. And believe me we were old enemies. We hid in the cave behind Kisasian's den. But luckily he only spent the day. We heard him muttering to himself that tomorrow will be the day. A day after he left, we heard about his death. That was the most joyful day of our lives, 'cause Uvoko was dead and you were born that very day, including your brother and sister." NAMANDLA : Are you finished ? BALELA : That's the end of my gran's story. (Namandla looked at the afternoon sun which was sitting at its highest.) NAMANDLA : I gotta go, I can't wait for Jemmi anymore. BALELA : Where do have to go ? NAMANDLA : I gotta go home, they'll be wondering where I disappeared to. BALELA : Will you be back tomorrow ? NAMANDLA : Only if the training starts tomorrow. BALELA : Don't worry, it will. (Namandla started to run home.) [FADE TO BLACK] ----------------------- SCENE 11 : THE TRAINING ----------------------- ********* * DAY 1 * ********* [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Namandla got home a hour after leaving the hyenas. As he reached Pride Rock he was stopped by Eliche.) ELICHE : And where have you've been all morning young man ? NAMANDLA : Oh, I've been here and there. ELICHE : Do you realize you've missed your weekly lessons ? NAMANDLA : I knew I forgot something. ELICHE : Just stay out of sight until your dad cools down. (Namandla just wanted to scream out "HE'S NOT MY DAD", but then he'll give himself away.) NAMANDLA : Whatever. ELICHE : You know, your brother has been looking for you the whole day. Since the lesson was canceled, he was very bored. Just be lucky you have two caring sisters who covered for you and tried to entertain Umuntu. NAMANDLA : (thinking to himself) If Botse is such a CARING sister, why did she hit me. (to Eliche) I'll keep that in mind next time. ELICHE : Go and play. NAMANDLA : Okay. (Day finally turned into night. Namandla was the last into the den, but he didn't find Umuntu on his usual place. He was laying next to Imbali and Botse instead.) NAMANDLA : (to himself) Why doesn't that surprise me ? (Namandla curled up in his usual position and fell asleep. The night went by slowly, but Namandla was up before the sun. He quickly sprinted to the western border and reached it just as the sun came up.) NAMANDLA : (calling) Jemmi! You there. JEMBULIKA : (appearing out of nowhere) Yeah, I'm here. Where did you disappear to yesterday ? NAMANDLA : I had to go home before someone realized I was gone. JEMBULIKA : Good thinking. Let's go. Today we start the training. NAMANDLA : There is one more thing I have to mention before we start this thing. JEMBULIKA : And what is that. NAMANDLA : At least once a week I gotta cancel this thing. JEMBULIKA : Why ? NAMANDLA : I have to attend my weekly lessons or there will be a lot of trouble. JEMBULIKA : I got a better idea. NAMANDLA : What is that ? JEMBULIKA : You come for training each night and stay till the midday the following day. On the day of your lessons, you go back before dawn. How does that sound ? NAMANDLA : Well... JEMBULIKA : You only have two choices. IN OR OUT. NAMANDLA : Okay, I'm in. Let's start. JEMBULIKA : Good, now follow me. (Jembulika led the way to a field just beyond the sleeping place of the hyenas. Namandla saw a very steep hill in the middle of the field.) JEMBULIKA : Welcome to our training grounds. NAMANDLA : What's that hill for ? JEMBULIKA : You'll find out soon enough. NAMANDLA : Okay. JEMBULIKA : And here comes the other recruits, about time. (Bele led four other hyenas to the edge of the field, where Jambulika and Namandla was sitting.) JEMBULIKA : What kept you ? BELE : Sorry, we were held up. JEMBULIKA : Shut up, here comes Impele. (to Namandla and Hyenas) OKAY YOU MAGGOTS! LINE UP, OUR LEADER APPROACHES ! (Namandla and the four hyenas quickly lined up as an elderly hyena approached.) JEMBULIKA : Morning Impele. IMPELE : Morning my brother. (Namandla couldn't believe his ears. This is the first hyena he has heard with such a beautiful voice. Also the first hyena with such great manners.) IMPELE : So these are the new recruits ? JEMBULIKA : Jip. IMPELE : Is that the young lion cub you told me about ? JEMBULIKA : That's him. IMPELE : (whispering) He looks very weak, do you think he can survive this training. JEMBULIKA : I only recruit the ones I think that can survive. IMPELE : We shall see how good your judgment is. (to the recruits) Welcome to our training grounds. You've all been chosen to take place in this training, to prove that your really one of us. Some of you might not make it, but I wish all the luck to you. Because you'll need it. That is all from my part, Jembulika will lay down the rules, then the training will start. (Impele said her farewells and left.) JEMBULIKA : Here are the rules, all of which must be obeyed or else... RULE 1 : You are not aloud to eat outside this training area. You will be fed if you do well. Failure to comply to this rule will end in punishment. RULE 2 : No one quits. If you decided to quit the penalty will be instant, sudden and even immediate death. RULE 3 : You can cry if you want to, but the more you cry the harder you will be driven. RULE 4 : Do what you're told or you'll go through punishment you can't even dare to imagine. These are all very simple rules and I trust that you'll obey them. I don't think for one second that you're smarter then me, 'cause you aren't. So be aware, it don't matter where you live. You will be watched so that you don't breaks these rules. And to help me enforce these rules, may I introduce you to my enforcers. (Seven other hyenas appeared from behind a rock.) JEMBULIKA : You don't need to know their names, you just call them "Sir". Do you understand me ? RECRUITS : YES SIR ! JEMBULIKA : Good. Now we can begin. (to hyena recruits) You four go with my four of my enforcers. (to Namandla) We'll handle you personally. NAMANDLA : (to Jembulika) Hey Jemmi... JEMBULIKA : You'll address me as "Sir" on the training field. You get me ? NAMANDLA : I GET YOU SIR! JEMBULIKA : Good, now what did you wanna know ? NAMANDLA : You didn't mention any of these rules before I started with this thing. JEMBULIKA : It's too late to back out now, you know the rules and the penalties. NAMANDLA : You tricked me. JEMBULIKA : Deal with it. First we gonna see how fast you can run. (to Enforces) Chase this maggot to the stream. ENFORCERS : Yes Sir! (The enforcers bared their teeth and started to growl at Namandla.) JEMBULIKA : You better start running, or they'll bite your heels off. (Terrified, Namandla started to run. The enforcers started to chase. There was one enforcer on his heels and one enforcers on each side of him. Each of them, nipping at his heels. He was bitten a few times before he reached the stream. Jembulika was already at the stream waiting. Namandla came up to the stream out of breath.) JEMBULIKA : You're too slow. The whole purpose of the exercise is to beat me to the stream. You have failed this exercise. The penalty is that you'll do this exercise for the rest of the week instead of just once a week. You look tired. I bet your begging for a drink now. NAMANDLA : (still panting) Yes Sir. JEMBULIKA : Believe me, after the next exercise you'll hate water for the rest of the week. Now get into the stream. (Namandla obeyed and entered the stream.) NAMANDLA : (with teeth chattering) This water is freezing. JEMBULIKA : Tough. Let's build those lung muscles. Deep breath. (Jembulika pushed Namandla's head under the water before he could inhale properly. After a few seconds Namandla started to struggle for air, but Jembulika didn't let go. Namandla started to struggle more and more. Finally after thirty seconds Jembulika released his grip and Namandla came up to the surface gasping for air.) JEMBULIKA : You disappoint me, you're suppose to stay under for 45 seconds or more. (looking at the sun) You better get going, before they start looking for you. NAMANDLA : (still catching his breath) How about something to eat before I go ? JEMBULIKA : You haven't earned it yet. NAMANDLA : But I'm starving. JEMBULIKA : See if I care. Get going and remember Rule 1. NAMANDLA : Yes Sir. JEMBULIKA : See you tonight. (Namandla walked home, with stomach growling all the time.) [FADE OUT] ********* * DAY 2 * ********* [FADE IN, PRIDE LANDS] (The night consumed the Pride Lands with its dark blanket. Namandla made sure that everyone was asleep before he left. When he was certain, he silently crept out of the den and headed towards the training fields.) [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, TRAINING FIELDS] (There was a cold breeze when Namandla finally reached the training fields. The rest of the hyenas were already assembled.) JEMBULIKA : You are late. NAMANDLA : Sorry Sir, I had to be sure everybody was asleep before I left. JEMBULIKA : Not to worry. Now fall in line. (Namandla quickly got in line.) JEMBULIKA : OKAY MAGGOTS, FROM WHAT I HEAR ALL OF FAILED THE EXECERCISES YESTERDAY. YOU GREATLY DISSAPOINT ME. SO NOW WE ARE GOING TO REPEAT YESTERDAY'S EXERCISES AND STILL DO TONIGHT'S EXERCISES. (A few moans came from the recruits.) JEMBULIKA : STOP YOUR MOANING. LET'S GET ON WITH IT ! (to Enforces) Okay same drill as yesterday. I'll take the kid again, and we'll meet by the hill at dawn. ENFORCERS : Yes Sir. JEMBULIKA : (to Namandla) Start running. (Once again Namandla was chased all the way to the stream. During the chase he only hoped that he was a bit faster than the before. When he got to stream he saw Jembulika waiting there.) JEMBULIKA : Faster than yesterday, but still to slow. You're gonna do this till you get it right. Now get in the stream. (Namandla got into the ice-cold stream. It was ten times colder than before.) JEMBULIKA : (laughing) How's the water ? (Namandla just shivered.) JEMBULIKA : That good. Okay, deep breath. (This time Namandla got all the needed oxygen into his lungs. Jembulika shoved Namandla's head under the water. A minute passed and Namandla had no more air left in his lungs. He started to struggle once again, but Jembulika didn't release his grip. The cold liquid of the stream started to enter Namandla's lungs. Suddenly Jembulika released his grip and Namandla resurfaced, gasping for air. He got out of the stream and coughed the water out of his lungs.) NAMANDLA : (still shivering) Are you trying to drown me ? JEMBULIKA : That's the whole idea. You've impressed me. You passed this exercise. You can choose a reward. NAMANDLA : What choices do I have ? JEMBULIKA : You have two choices. One, you don't have to do this exercise till next week or you can have something to eat by the end of today. NAMANDLA : (thinking of his endless hunger) I think I'd rather eat something. JEMBULIKA : Fine with me. It's almost dawn, time to go to the hill. (to enforcers) You know what to do. ENFORCERS : Yes Sir ! (The enforcers started to chase Namandla once again. When they finally reached the hill, it was dawn. Namandla was totally exhausted. Jembulika was there, already waiting.) JEMBULIKA : What kept you ? NAMANDLA : Hey, have a heart. JEMBULIKA : Don't worry, once you're finished you'll be as heartless as I am. (The rest of recruits and enforcers arrived a minutes after.) JEMBULIKA : (to other recruits) I thought the kid was slow, but you disgust me. No food for three days. (One of the enforcers whispered something in Jembulika's ear.) JEMBULIKA : (to all the recruits) We have small problem, I've just heard that one of you wants to quit. Time for a quitter's punishment. (Jembulika nodded his head and four of the enforcers attacked one of the hyena recruits. They started to tear huge chunks of flesh from the recruit's body. The recruit yelped in pain, but his pain soon ended when his throat was ripped from his neck.) JEMBULIKA : Hope this has been a lesson to you all. Now let's put this messy business behind us and continue. (pointing at some weeds in the grass) This weed is called Suoregnad or in short Gnad. (The remaining recruits inspected the weed.) JEMBULIKA : Now what Gnad does is cause temporary blindness, which is part of our next exercise. (looking at Namandla) You're first. (Namandla stepped forward.) JEMBULIKA : Eat some of the Gnad. (Namandla ate some of the weed. A minute passed and tears began to form in his eyes.) NAMANDLA : (screaming in pain) MY EYES ARE ON FIRE ! JEMBULIKA : Don't worry, it will pass. NAMANDLA : (calming down) I can't see a thing. JEMBULIKA : That's the point. Now the enforcers are going to start hitting you. You must try to dodge and fight back. (The enforcers started to attack Namandla from all sides. He tried to defend himself but failed miserably, as the enforcers knocked him off his feet and kept on hitting him till he was unconscious.) TIME PASSED (Namandla regained consciousness and to his surprise he could see again. Jembulika approached.) JEMBULIKA : You finally awake, how's your head ? NAMANDLA : Feels like a herd of elephants just trampled my brain. JEMBULIKA : Well that's one of the side effects of Gnad. It's almost time for you to leave. And as I promised, here's something to eat. (calling) Bring some rations. (One of the enforcers appeared, carrying a tiny piece of meat in his mouth. He dropped it in front of Namandla.) JEMBULIKA : Enjoy the little that you get, then leave. NAMANDLA : Yes Sir. (Namandla quickly gobbled up the meat and headed home.) [FADE OUT] ************** * PUNISHMENT * ************** [FADE IN, TRAINING FIELDS] (As dusk vanished, the night made its appearance once again. The night was still young when Namandla reached the training fields, but as usual the rest were waiting for him.) JEMBULIKA : Your time is improving, but you're still too late. This is your final warning. One more mistake and it will be cruel punishment. NAMANDLA : Yes Sir. JEMBULIKA : Talking 'bout punishment. One of you has committed a terrible sin. One of you broke the most important rule. Rule number ONE! (All the recruits went silent. Each one wondering, who's guilty ?) JEMBULIKA : (pointing at one of the hyenas) Step forward. (The hyena stepped forward and fell to his knees.) HYENA : Please Sir, have mercy. I was starving. JEMBULIKA : You will be starving, starving to get out the punishment you're about to receive. (to Enforcers) Let's show the other recruits what happens when Rule 1 is broken. ENFORCERS : Yes Sir. JEMBULIKA : (to the guilty) Just stand still and it will be over much quicker. GUILTY : (whimpering) Yes Sir. (Jembulika struck the Guilty one in the face with his paw and he fell to the ground. The enforcers took over and started to tear deep holes in the guilty's body with their claws. The guilty yelped out in pain as the punishment was executed. The enforcers stopped after about 10 minutes. The guilty one was laying one the ground covered in his own blood. His eyes started sparkle and he passed out from blood loss.) JEMBULIKA : (to other recruits) I hope this has been educational for all of you. Let's get on with the training. (to Namandla) Come with me kid. (to others and Enforcers) We'll meet you at the hill. (The others left and Namandla sat alone with Jembulika in the cool night air.) NAMANDLA : (looking at the guilty) Is he gonna be alright ? JEMBULIKA : I doubt it. Now we run. First to the stream, then to hill... NON-STOP. (Namandla started to run and Jembulika was in pursuit. When they finally reached the hill, Namandla collapsed with exhaustion.) JEMBULIKA : GET UP! YOUR NOT DONE YET! (Namandla struggled up.) JEMBULIKA : Now go up and down this hill ten times. NAMANDLA : (still panting) Yes Sir. JEMBULIKA : (as Namandla started) This exercise is called Torture Hill. (By the time the Namandla finished, the sun was already high in the sky.) JEMBULIKA : Okay, you can go home now. You'll get something to eat tomorrow. (Days turned into weeks. Weeks turned into months as the training continued. Namandla was now a year old, he had already grown a partial mane. He was much stronger than the rest of the recruits, although there was only one other recruit left. Namandla just finished the Torture Hill exercise and Jembulika was waiting for him at the bottom.) JEMBULIKA : You tired yet? NAMANDLA : Nope. JEMBULIKA : That is the 100th time you went up and came down today. How much more must I send you up before you get tired ? NAMANDLA : You can try again. JEMBULIKA : Just get out of here, your making me angry. NAMANDLA : (sarcastically) Yes Sir. (As Namandla left, Impele approached Jembulika.) IMPELE : Jemmi, can we talk ? JEMBULIKA : Sure, I have some time now. IMPELE : I think that Namandla is getting too strong and dangerous. JEMBULIKA : I don't think so. IMPELE : Have you seen your enforcers lately ? They were beaten half to death by that thing you created. JEMBULIKA : He will be a great help in taking over the Pride Lands again. IMPELE : (shocked)Taking over the Pride Lands ? So that's why you recruited an outsider. JEMBULIKA : Your getting smarter by the minute. IMPELE : I won't have anymore of this. As your leader, I ORDER you to get rid of him. JEMBULIKA : But... IMPELE : Not buts, DO IT ! JEMBULIKA : (sighing) Okay, I'll do it. IMPELE : Good, now get out of my sight. (Jembulika left in search of Bele. When he found her, they went to the ruins of Kisasian's den once again. And as before Jembulika called for the spirit of his grandmother. Shenzi spirit entered Bele's soul like before.) BELE : What can I do for you child ? JEMBULIKA : Gran, we have one major problem. BELE : Tell me about it. JEMBULIKA : Impele is acting like a real bitch. BELE : What did she do to deserve that phrase ? JEMBULIKA : She wants me to get rid of the kid. BELE : WHAT !? JEMBULIKA : She says that we're peaceful race now and that I must think of taking over Pride Rock again. I just don't get her, we are so close, yet she doesn't want to listen to reason. BELE : I have the solution, challenge her. JEMBULIKA : Challenge her? BELE : Challenge her for a fight to the death, the winner will be the leader of the pack. JEMBULIKA : Even if I can defeat her, I can't kill my own sister. BELE : Then get someone else to do it. JEMBULIKA : No one has the guts to challenge her. BELE : What about that new kid ? JEMBULIKA : Namandla ? He's not one of us. And only a member of the pack can challenge her. BELE : When he complete's the training then he'll be one of us, right ? JEMBULIKA : You gotta point there. But still she is very cunning and can still kill him. BELE : When is the graduation ? JEMBULIKA : Anytime I see fit. BELE : Do it tonight, then bring him here for the ceremony. JEMBULIKA : What ceremony ? BELE : Don't you remember out discussion a few months ago ? We will possess him with the spirit of "The Mighty". JEMBULIKA : But he has to do it at his own free will. BELE : I know, that's why we are going to do the ritual in our ancient language. JEMBULIKA : Good, let's do it. BELE : Until then, go in peace my grandson. (Bele suddenly gasped for air as Shenzi spirit left her body.) BELE : So what did gran have to say ? JEMBULIKA : I will explain it later, let's get out of here. [FADE TO BLACK] --------------------- SCENE 12 : GRADUATION --------------------- [FADE IN, TRAINING FIELDS] (When Jembulika reached the training fields, Namandla was already there, waiting for him.) NAMANDLA : What kept you ? JEMBULIKA : Very funny. NAMANDLA : What exercise are we gonna start with ? JEMBULIKA : No more training do you require. NAMANDLA : You mean I'm finished ? Am I one of you now ? JEMBULIKA : Not yet. You have to graduate first. NAMANDLA : And how do we do that ? JEMBULIKA : With a small ritual, unfortunately the ritual is done in our old language. NAMANDLA : So what. JEMBULIKA : I'm just pointing out that you will have to repeat what I say, although you won't understand a word. NAMANDLA : Hey, If it'll help me get revenge on the ones I hate, I'll do anything. JEMBULIKA : Perfect. Follow me. (Jembulika led Namandla to the ruins of Kisasian's den. They finally reached the exact spot where Jembulika used to contact Shenzi.) JEMBULIKA : Now listen and listen closely. I myself can't say the ritual out loud, I will whisper it in your ear and then you must repeat exactly what I said. No matter how strange it sounds, you must do so or the results will be devastating. Do you understand me? NAMANDLA : Yes I do. JEMBULIKA : Okay, let's start. (As Jembulika whispered the sacred lines in Namandla's ear, he repeated it out loud.) NAMANDLA : HO TAERG TIRIPS FO EHT YTHGIM I LLAC EEHT SSESSOP EM I DEVIL A EFIL FO ETAH OS PLEH EM EDICED YM ETAF I WONK EHT SECNEUQESNOC FO EHT SNOITCA I EKAT DNA I WONK TAHW SI TA EKATS OS EKAT YM LUOS WON DNEB TI, TSIWT TI ESAELER EHT LIVE TI STSISNOC OS TAHT I NAC TEG EHT EGNEVER I TNAW TRANSLATION : ------------- OH GREAT SPIRIT OF THE MIGHTY I CALL THEE POSSESS ME I LIVED A LIFE OF HATE SO HELP ME DECIDE MY FATE I KNOW THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE ACTIONS I TAKE AND I KNOW WHAT IS AT STAKE SO TAKE MY SOUL NOW BEND IT, TWIST IT RELEASE THE EVIL IT CONSISTS SO THAT I CAN GET THE REVENGE I WANT (It was done, the sacred words were spoken. There was loud rumble and lightning bolt struck a near by tree, setting it on fire. Namandla screamed out in pain as the evil spirit entered his very soul. After a few minutes of pain, Namandla fell to the ground unconscious. A hour later he finally woke up again.) NAMANDLA : (groaning) What happened ? JEMBULIKA : You passed the final test. Now you graduate. Get up. (Namandla wobbled to his feet.) JEMBULIKA : Before I make you a member, remember that your name is going to change. NAMANDLA : What ? JEMBULIKA : Part of the graduation. You must get a new name to get rid of all the old weaknesses you have. NAMANDLA : (fighting back tears) Then continue... (Jembulika swiped his claws over Namandla's side, which left a terrible mark.) JEMBULIKA : WITH THIS MARK YOU ARE NOW A MEMBER OF OUR PACK NOW YOU WILL DEDICATE YOUR LIFE TO THE SAFETY OF THE PACK AND I WELCOME THEE WITH A NEW NAME THE NAME OF "OKUBI" (The words were spoken, the lion called Namandla was dead and a new one was born. The life of Okubi has started with completion of the graduation.) JEMBULIKA : Welcome to the pack Okubi. OKUBI : Thank you sir. JEMBULIKA : Don't bother with calling me "Sir" anymore. You are part of this pack, you can call me by name. OKUBI : When will my revenge start ? JEMBULIKA : Whoa, slow down. We have one small problem. OKUBI : That is... JEMBULIKA : Impele, she's the problem. She believes that taking over Pride Rock won't accomplish anything. OKUBI : What can I do to convince her ? JEMBULIKA : Easy, challenge her for a fight to the death. The winner is the new leader of the pack. OKUBI : Why doesn't anybody else challenge her ? JEMBULIKA : No one has the guts. OKUBI : I will show everyone that I ain't a coward. She's dead. JEMBULIKA : Good, lets go. One thing, I'm allowing you to do this on one condition. When you win, I will be you right hand. Helping you with decisions and so on. OKUBI : Why ? JEMBULIKA : She IS my sister and although this must be done...I still love her. OKUBI : If those are your wishes...So be it. [FADE TO BLACK] ----------------------------- SCENE 13 : LEADER OF THE PACK ----------------------------- [FADE IN, HYENA GROUNDS] (Impele assembled the hyenas.) BELE : What's with the assembly ? IMPELE : I have no idea, Jembulika asked me to call an assembly. Maybe he can explain it to you. JEMBULIKA : (appearing out of nowhere) It'll be my pleasure to explain it to you. IMPELE : Well. We are waiting. JEMBULIKA : Fellow hyenas, I have asked for Impele to call an assembly. 'Cause I have something very important to discuss. I once had the idea that we should take our place in Pride Lands, but Impele here thought differently. She says that we are a peaceful race now and that we should not even think of trying to take over the Pride Lands again. (to Impele) Am I correct ? IMPELE : That is correct. JEMBULIKA : I'm fully behind, 'cause you're the boss. IMPELE : I'm glad you finally see the light. JEMBULIKA : But someone else has a different opinion. IMPELE : Who ? JEMBULIKA : Okubi. IMPELE : Who's Okubi ? JEMBULIKA : Oh, sorry you don't know Okubi. Well let me introduce him to you. (calling) Hey Okubi, come out. They say they don't you. (Okubi came out from the shadows.) IMPELE : But, that's Namandla. OKUBI : Who's that ? IMPELE : (to Jembulika) You bastard, you've made him one of us. JEMBULIKA : Precisely. And he has something to say to you. OKUBI : Impele, leader of the pack. I challenge thee to fight to the death. IMPELE : How dare you challenge me ? OKUBI : Come on bitch, lets see what you're made of. (Impele attacked, but Okubi side stepped and swiped at Impele with his claws. Impele landed and turned around.) IMPELE : Hah! You missed. OKUBI : (admiring his bloodstained claws) I wouldn't say that. (Impele looked at Okubi's claws then at herself. She noticed four slices over her stomach. All her innards started to spill out of the wounds and she collapsed.) IMPELE : (choking on her blood) You bastard. Damn you. OKUBI : No damn you to hell. (Okubi snapped Impele's neck with his jaws.) OKUBI : (to other Hyenas) As you all can see, I am the new leader around here. If anyone has a problem with this, come to me and I'll quickly send you on your way....to HELL! And let me remind you all, that the same will happen to you if you dare to stand in my way of revenge. As your your new leader I appoint Jembulika as my right hand. So don't make him cross or else... JEMBULIKA : (to hyenas) Okay listen up. Finally we can take over Pride Rock like we always wanted to. Now is the time to be joyful. There will be an assembly tomorrow night to discuss our take over. But for now, dismiss. And most important : LONG LIVE KING OKUBI ! OKUBI : King Okubi, I like the sound of that. ALL HYENAS : LONG LIVE KING OKUBI ! LONG LIVE KING OKUBI ! (The assembly dismissed and only Okubi and Jembulika remained.) JEMBULIKA : Good show boss. OKUBI : (sarcastically) Don't bother with "boss" just call "Oh Mighty King of all Kings" JEMBULIKA : Whatever you say boss. OKUBI : (sighing) Ho-hum. I'm going home. JEMBULIKA : What ? It's not even midnight yet. OKUBI : Sorry, but I'm dead tired. I don't know why ? JEMBULIKA : Get out of here. OKUBI : Hey, I'm the giving orders around here. JEMBULIKA : Don't remind me. Remember don't mention this to anyone in your pride, to them your still Namandla. So act like it. OKUBI : Whatever. (Okubi left and reached the den before midnight. He quietly fell into a deep sleep.) [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------------------ SCENE 14 : DEATH IS EVERYWHERE ------------------------------ [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (The afternoon sun was already scorching the surface of Pride Rock when Okubi woke up. He walked out of then den and went directly to the waterhole. When he got there, he saw most of the pride basking in the sun. Umuntu and Imbali were laying under a tree. For the first time Okubi saw how Umuntu has grown in too a still handsome lion, with a partial mane coming out of his neck. And next to Umuntu the absolute beauty of Okubi's sister totally overwhelmed him.) IMBALI : (to Umuntu) It lives I see. OKUBI : Very funny. UMUNTU : Haven't seen you in a while, you've always been gone before the sun comes up... IMBALI : ...yeah, where do you disappear to each morning. OKUBI : (to Umuntu) I don't think it's any of your business "pretty boy" (to Imbali) or yours as a matter of fact. UMUNTU : Aren't you the charming one this morning Nami ? OKUBI : (a bit angry) Hey, my name is O.... Namandla not "Nami". Got that. UMUNTU : (sarcastically) Yes SIR ! OKUBI : Your impossible. (Okubi drank from the waterhole and left.) IMBALI : What's his problem ? UMUNTU : You got me, probably had a bad nights sleep. IMBALI : With him, every night is bad. UMUNTU : Imagine how he would have been if he found out that we are not related. IMBALI : You don't have to remind me. But in some way I'm glad that you and I are not related. UMUNTU : You know, I had that same thought... [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, THE HYENA LANDS] (The night graced the lands with its presence as dusk disappeared. Okubi reached the Hyena lands as the assembly started. Jembulika was already waiting for him.) JEMBULIKA : You look like hell. OKUBI : I had a bad day. Please enlighten me for a change. JEMBULIKA : Well, I have thought of a plan to take over the Pride Lands. OKUBI : Okay, lets hear it. JEMBULIKA : (to all) Here is the plan. Okubi is our greatest help in the taking over of Pride Rock. First, we must decrease their numbers. HYENA : How exactly are we gonna do that ? JEMBULIKA : Easy, Okubi here finds out where and when each lioness is during the day. That way we can ambush and kill them off one by one. OKUBI : But not too many, or else the King will suspect something. JEMBULIKA : Fair enough. OKUBI : Another thing. Botse, my step-sister is not to be harmed. I have special plans for her. That also goes for "pretty boy" Umuntu and my real sister Imbali as well JEMBULIKA : Done. What about the cubs ? OKUBI : Hey, we can always need some slaves, can't we ? JEMBULIKA : Oh, you are so cruel. OKUBI : I had a great teacher. HYENA : Sorry to break up this sentimental moment here, but when are we gonna start. OKUBI : In exactly one weeks time. JEMBULIKA : Aren't you jumping the gun a bit. OKUBI : I'm not going to wait until "pretty boy" has grown into a full lion. It's either now or never. JEMBULIKA : You're the boss. OKUBI : You got that straight. JEMBULIKA : One more question. OKUBI : And what might that be ? JEMBULIKA : Why a week ? OKUBI : I have to study the lionesses patterns. JEMBULIKA : (disbelieving) Yeah right. OKUBI : Well to be exact, Botse will be in her season in a week's time. Then I'm gonna teach her a thing or two. JEMBULIKA : You are the cruelest of them all. OKUBI : I know. [FADE OUT] A Week passed [FADE IN, THE HYENA LANDS] (Okubi assembled the hyena horde to plan their strategy.) OKUBI : Okay, listen up all of you. The pride has ten adult lionesses. We gonna get rid of seven of them today. HYENA : Are you crazy ? SEVEN ? OKUBI : Yes seven, and don't worry they are all alone. HYENA : Where are they ? OKUBI : They've all been assigned to border patrol They'll traveling along the western border in 'bout ten minutes. They usually walk about a mile apart. So it's very easy. Kill one, drag it away. Kill the following, drag it away and so on. JEMBULIKA : Come on, we ain't idiots. We can do it. (All the hyenas cheered.) OKUBI : Let's go and get them. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, WESTERN BORDER] (Okubi and the hyenas reached the western border before the first lioness came around.) JEMBULIKA : How are we going to do this ? OKUBI : Easy. I'll keep them busy, you attack. Now is that difficult ? JEMBULIKA : Your the boss, boss. OKUBI : Shaddup, here comes one. Quickly hide. (The hyenas quickly disappeared into the shadows. Okubi waited behind a large which was part the invisible border between the Pride Lands and the Hyena Lands. The lioness passed the rock and Okubi came up from behind her. He saw that it was Wendebi.) OKUBI : Boy, you're sloppy. (Wendebi jumped around in fright.) WENDEBI : NAMANDLA, WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU ? OKUBI : Who me ? WENDEBI : You almost gave me a heart attack. OKUBI : Hey, it wouldn't have happened if you kept your eyes open. WENDEBI : Don't even start with me. Why are you out this far ? Your father is going to be furious. OKUBI : My father, who's that ? WENDEBI : Oh my God, how did you find out ? OKUBI : A little birdie told me. I'm going to teach all of you not to ever keep secrets from me. WENDEBI : What do you mean ? OKUBI : Oh, I mean just look behind you ? (Wendebi turned around and saw twelve hyenas coming towards her.) OKUBI : (mocking the lioness) What are you doing out this far ? Hmmmmmm. (Without a word the hyenas attack her and ripped her apart, spilling her innocent blood everywhere.) OKUBI : Did have to make such a mess ? JEMBULIKA : Whoops! OKUBI : Whoops is not going to cover this. Now I will have think of something else before the next lioness appears. She will definitely smell the blood....Wait I got it. Get back to your hiding places before the next one comes. (The following lioness approached the rock and smelled the blood, suddenly Okubi jumped out from behind the rock.) OKUBI : Who goes there ? LIONESS : It's just me Nami. OKUBI : Sorry, I thought someone was going to steal me kill. LIONESS : No wonder I smelled blood. OKUBI : You want some ? LIONESS : Well, I am kinda hungry. OKUBI : (motioning her to follow him) Come on. LIONESS : I can only stay a short while. (Okubi led her to the remains of the other lioness.) LIONESS : (in horror) Oh my God! That's disgusting. JEMBULIKA : (coming from behind) You know dearie, why don't you stay for long while ? LIONESS : (to Okubi) YOU!, you betrayed us. OKUBI : So sue me. Whatcha going to do? Tell that lion who thinks he's my father. (Without another word the hyenas also ripped her to shreds.) OKUBI : (in disgust) I asked you so nicely not to make mess. JEMBULIKA : Hey, we must make sure it stays dead. OKUBI : Whatever. Two down, five to go. How are the rest doing ? JEMBULIKA : Only a few minor scratches. OKUBI : Good. (And so it continued, lioness after lioness were fooled with the same trick and brutally slaughtered. Okubi looked at the corpses of his former pride members) OKUBI : (sarcastically) Boy, does this look appetizing. I wonder what's for lunch. (sighing) I better inform the king and queen of the corpses. JEMBULIKA : What ? OKUBI : I must tell them of these deaths, but I don't have to go into details. I'll just come up with some story, about how I found them like this. JEMBULIKA : You're the boss. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Orkam and Eliche was busy resting in the den. All the sudden Okubi came running in and started his best act ever.) OKUBI : (in horror) MOM! DAD! Come quick. ORKAM : (alarmed) What? What is it ? OKUBI : (forcing tears) I saw something terrible. ELICHE : What did you see ? OKUBI : (almost in tears) Some of the pride's lionesses... ELICHE : Well your suppose to see them. OKUBI : Not the way I saw them. ORKAM : Why what happened ? OKUBI : I don't know, I was just walking along the western border... ORKAM : The Western Border ? How many times have I told you not to go there ? ELICHE : (to Orkam) Please dear, let him finished. OKUBI : Anyway, I was walking along the western border when I smelled blood. Me being very hungry, went to inspect what was killed. Then I saw it... ELICHE : Saw what ? OKUBI : The corpses of our pride members. ELICHE : What are you saying? They're dead. OKUBI : No, slaughtered. (Without another word, Orkam ran out of the den. A hour later he came back and confirmed Okubi's story.) ORKAM : (still in shock) I'm telling you it was disgusting. I almost wanted to puke. I suggest no one goes there for a while. ELICHE : (lowering her head) We better inform the rest of the pride. [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------------------- SCENE 15 : DOWN WITH THE RULERS ------------------------------- [FADE IN, HYENA LANDS] (Okubi assembled the hyenas that night.) OKUBI : I have to congratulate all of you with a brilliant job done. The pride is now at its weakest. We will take over the Pride Lands tomorrow morning. (All the hyenas cheered. As the assembly broke up, Jembulika approached Okubi.) JEMBULIKA : Are you sure you know what you're doing ? OKUBI : I've never been so sure in my life. You would have done the same if you had the chance. JEMBULIKA : (convinced) You know, you're right. OKUBI : I'm always right. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (It was almost dawn and an entire horde of the hyenas approached Pride Rock, with Okubi and Jembulika. They approached the entrance of the den.) JEMBULIKA : Okay, we're here. What now ? OKUBI : There is about three lionesses left. That is the queen, my future queen and my sister. Then there is the king and about 15 cubs. JEMBULIKA : (surprised) Fifteen ? That is quite a lot boss. OKUBI : Don't worry, they are all very weak and easy to control. JEMBULIKA : But what about "pretty boy" ? Where does he fall into the story ? OKUBI : He IS one of the cubs. JEMBULIKA : But isn't he a year old now ? OKUBI : Does it make a difference ? He will never be an adult, he has too much cub in him. But that is beside the point right now, I was going to tell you how we're going to catch them. JEMBULIKA : Catch them ? Are you crazy ? OKUBI : I might be a bit insane, but I'm not crazy. Anyway, we catch them as they come out of the den. JEMBULIKA : Suites me. (The sun finally came out of it's hiding place. The rays of the sun lit up the entrance to the den. Orkam slowly woke up and yawned.) ORKAM : (shaking Eliche) Eliche, wake up. ELICHE : (half asleep) Go away, it's too early. ORKAM : Come on get up. I have to discuss something with you. ELICHE : (looking at Orkam) Okay, I'm up. (Orkam and Eliche walked towards the exit, not knowing of the danger which waits outside. Orkam and Eliche came outside only to see Okubi waiting for them.) ORKAM & ELICHE : Morning Nami. OKUBI : (sarcastically) Good morning oh great King and Queen of the Pride Lands. ORKAM : Hey, I won't permit you speak to us like that. OKUBI : Tough. ELICHE : Don't talk back to your father. OKUBI : Father ? This lion is not my father. (Orkam knock Okubi off his feet with one massive blow of the paw.) ORKAM : HOW DARE YOU ? OKUBI : (getting up) No, how dare you ? ORKAM : You little bastard. OKUBI : That's the problem with this world today, everybody keeps calling me a bastard. Enough name calling, you will hand the throne over to me IMMEDIATLY. ORKAM : Don't make me laugh. OKUBI : Oh, I'm going to do something much worse. (Shouting) GET THEM ! (Suddenly the horde of hyenas came out form their hiding places.) ORKAM : You betrayed us. OKUBI : Hey, who betrayed who first ? (to Hyenas) Take them below and bring me Botse and "pretty boy". JEMBULIKA : What about the other cubs ? OKUBI : Keep them in the den. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Orkam, Eliche, Botse and Umuntu was brought before Okubi at the bottom of Pride Rock.) UMUNTU : Nami, what's the meaning of this ? OKUBI : What is with all this "Nami" and "Namandla" my name is Okubi. BOTSE : I see you're already living up to that name. OKUBI : I would have killed you if you weren't so important to me. IMBALI : Why are you doing this to us ? OKUBI : All I wanted was a normal life, with caring parents. Sure they were caring parents...they didn't care to tell me about my past. I had to find out the hard way. I really hate it when someone keeps a secret from me. (looking at Botse) But I'm sure someone can make it up to me. ORKAM : (charging) YOU LEAVE HER ALONE! (Orkam was tackled and pinned to the ground by many hyenas.) OKUBI : Aren't we the physical type today ? IMBALI : Nami, stop this. (Okubi struck Imbali through the face with back of his paw.) OKUBI : For the last time, my name is OKUBI! IMBALI : (with tears in her eyes) What happened to you ? OKUBI : I grew up, why don't you ? ORKAM : You're not an adult, just a spoiled little cub. OKUBI : (to hyenas) I had enough of his talk, teach him to shut up. (One of the hyenas on Orkam's chest placed his jaws over Orkam's throat. Okubi nodded. The hyena ripped out Orkam's throat and was rewarded with a fountain of blood spraying across his face. Every muscle in Umuntu's body froze when he saw what happened. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't move to help his father.) ELICHE : (heartbroken) NOOOOO! (Eliche tried to attack the hyenas, but was quickly silenced by several other hyenas.) UMUNTU : (in tears) Okubi, what have you done ? OKUBI : Something I should have a long time ago. UMUNTU : (narrowing his eyes) YOUR DEAD ! OKUBI : Try to attack me and you'll be first. (to hyenas) Bring "pretty boy" over here. (The hyenas forced Umuntu over to Okubi.) OKUBI : You dare to narrow your eyes and threaten me. You'll never ever narrow your eyes to me again. (Okubi's claws buried deep into Umuntu's face, ripping out the right eye and leaving three vertical scars over Umuntu's face. Umuntu roared in pain as blood started to flow from his wounds. Finally he collapsed and passed out.) OKUBI : Just as I thought. Weak. (to hyenas) Take pretty...or should I say "ugly boy" and the rest of the cubs to the abandoned cave below Pride Rock. (looking at Botse) And bring her to the den. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Okubi waited in the den. Some hyenas brought Botse into the den.) OKUBI : (to Hyenas) You may leave, but wait outside just for in case she tries to run. (The hyenas left.) OKUBI : (to Botse) Do you remember that day when I scared Imbali with that stupid mud monster trick ? BOTSE : (frightened) Of course. OKUBI : Remember what I said afterwards, I said that your going to pay for what you did to me. Well guess what? BOTSE : What ? OKUBI : Time to pay up. (Okubi approached Botse and forced her to the ground. Screams for help came from the den, but no one was there to help Botse.) [FADE TO BLACK] ----------------- SCENE 16 : SLAVES ----------------- [FADE IN, ABANDONED CAVE] (All the cubs were forced into the dark, damp and tiny cave below Pride Rock. They all heard screams from above, but couldn't help, 'cause no one was strong enough to get past the hyena guards. Umuntu finally woke up after several hours and hoped that the events which has occurred was only a dream. He wasn't up for even ten seconds when the pain suddenly hit him.) UMUNTU : (in great pain) What happened ? Where are we ? IMBALI : (sad) We are in the cave below Pride Rock. Can't you remember what happened ? (Visions of the terrible crime popped up in his head over and over.) UMUNTU : You mean it wasn't just a dream ? IMBALI : No, it's a nightmare. UMUNTU : That little monster took my eye. Someday I will return the favor. IMBALI : Come here, let me clean those wounds. (Umuntu came closer and Imbali started lick his wounds. A few hyenas appeared and push Botse into the cave. She collapsed immediately and started to cry.) UMUNTU : (to Imbali) Leave the wounds for later, I must go to Botse. (Imbali stopped licking Umuntu's face and he approached his sister.) UMUNTU : (to Botse) Botse, are you alright ? BOTSE : (full of tears) No, no I'm not. I can't believe what he did to me ? UMUNTU : What did he do ? (Botse looked into Umuntu's eyes and said nothing.) UMUNTU : You mean he.... (Botse nodded before Umuntu could complete his sentence.) UMUNTU : Oh Botse, I'm so sorry I couldn't help you. BOTSE : Don't worry, it's not your fault. IMBALI : (approaching) Umi, what are we going to do ? There are hyenas everywhere. UMUNTU : I don't know, but we must get out of here. BOTSE : That's impossible, you haven't been outside yet I see. There is about fifty of those blood sucking hyenas. UMUNTU : I don't know how, but we will get out of here. IMBALI : Whatever you think of, I'm with you. (The rest of the cubs also agreed to go with whatever plan Umuntu comes up with.) UMUNTU : But for now, we should just do as the tell us. No matter what they ask, you must do it. (Two weeks passed and it was a terrible time for the surviving cubs of the pride. They were constantly terrorized and ordered around. But for Botse if was absolutely horrible, she was forced up to the den a couple of times each day and all Umuntu could do was to watch her be taken away. As the days passed Umuntu studied the hyenas movement well. Then one morning it came to him. He silently woke the rest of the cubs.) UMUNTU : (whispering) Listen up, tonight we are going to escape this awful place. Make sure all of you are here by dusk. [FADE TO BLACK] --------------------- SCENE 17 : THE ESCAPE --------------------- [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Dusk was approaching and all the cubs were assembled in the small cave below Pride Rock. Umuntu was waiting for everyone to settle down. Botse came to him.) BOTSE : What do you think you're doing ? UMUNTU : Tonight is the night of our escape. BOTSE : Are you crazy ? UMUNTU : I studied the hyenas walking pattern very well. BOTSE : Then you'll have to go without me. UMUNTU : What !? BOTSE : Someone must occupy Okubi until you can escape. UMUNTU : You can't do that. BOTSE : Hey, I'm still older then you. So you better listen well. I'll keep him busy until you can escape. UMUNTU : I'm going to miss you. BOTSE : I'll miss you as well. UMUNTU : In case you wish to escape someday, we are heading towards the Jungle beyond the desert. BOTSE : I better go. (Botse left the cave. Imbali silenced the remaining cubs.) UMUNTU : Okay, in exactly ten minutes we leave the cave. We head directly for the waterhole. We'll have two minutes to reach it, so we better run. Once at the waterhole, we will hide for three minutes until the hyena guards have passed. Then we make a straight run for the gorge. From there on we travel through the desert to jungle beyond. RANDOM CUB : Isn't the desert very risky ? UMUNTU : It's the only way. (The ten minutes came and went. All the cubs were running towards the waterhole, led by Umuntu and Imbali. Meanwhile back at Pride Rock, Okubi came out of the den, followed by Botse. He reached the end of the promontory and sat down.) BOTSE : Where are you going ? OKUBI : Phew! I need some air. BOTSE : What? Am I to much for you ? OKUBI : Since when did you grow feelings for me ? BOTSE : (lying) When you showed me what a lion you are. OKUBI : Really, well tell me more about myself. (noticing movement in the corner of his eye) What the... (looking towards the waterhole) DAMN IT ! (looking at Botse) You bitch, you help them escape. (Okubi struck Botse through the face and she fell unconscious onto the solid rock.) OKUBI : (yelling) ALARM! THOSE CUBS ARE ESCAPING! GO AFTER THEM! (The hyenas started to pursue the fleeing cubs. The hyenas which were near the waterhole at the time was close on the heels of the cubs. Before they could reach the gorge, three of the cubs were taken down, but not killed. Jembulika stopped were the three cubs have fallen. And saw the rest of the cubs heading towards the desert.) JEMBULIKA : Let the rest go, the desert will finish them off. (looking at the cubs) As for you three, the king would like to see you right away. (Jembulika and the rest of the hyenas led the three cubs towards the den. Okubi waited impatiently for the hyenas to return. When the hyenas finally return he furious.) OKUBI : THREE !!!?? IS THIS ALL YOU COULD CATCH ? JEMBULIKA : They are very fast boss. OKUBI : Where are the rest ? JEMBULIKA : They headed into the desert. OKUBI : Well good riddance to bad rubbish. (looking at the cubs) Well if it isn't the three stooges. Busisiwe, Insingo and Umfana. You tried to escape and that is a major no-no. Now all of you must pay the penalty. (The cubs started to whimper as the hyenas encircled them. Botse finally regained consciousness and got up only to see horrible sight of hyenas ripping the cubs apart.) BOTSE : (to Okubi) Oh my God! What have you done ? OKUBI : They tried to escape and paid the penalty. BOTSE : You murdered innocent cubs. I hope you burn in hell. OKUBI : You know what, you're beautiful when you're angry...what am I saying, you're always beautiful... BOTSE : Please, not again. OKUBI : Keep your mouth shut and get inside the den or I'll let my hyenas kill you very slow and painfully. (With no choice, Botse returned to the den.) OKUBI : (looking at the hyenas) As for you lot, see if you can find anymore cubs hiding somewhere. (All the hyenas except the usual guards left Pride Rock in search of some remaining cubs.) [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------------ SCENE 18 : IN THE DESERT ------------------------ [FADE IN, DESERT] (The night was still young and the escaped cubs ran into the desert. Umuntu slowed down and stopped.) UMUNTU : Okay, we can stop a while. (All the cubs laid down for a rest. Umuntu started to count the cubs) UMUNTU : (to Imbali) Three of the cubs are missing. IMBALI : What ? Are you sure ? UMUNTU : I counted them three times. There is definitely three missing. They must have been caught. IMBALI : How do you know ? UMUNTU : That's the only explanation. (A cub approached Umuntu.) UMUNTU : What can I do for you Ilanga ? ILANGA : I don't see Umfana, where's my brother ? IMBALI : He must be one of the cubs who got caught. ILANGA : You mean his still at Pride Rock ? (Imbali nodded her head.) ILANGA : Will he be alright ? UMUNTU : I don't know, I could only fear the worse. IMBALI : I think we should get on the move. UMUNTU : You're right, we get as far as possible before the sun comes out. (to All the cubs) Okay we better get moving. (The small group of lions started to travel south through the desert. They walked in long intervals with only short rests. The cool breeze of the early night turned into the freezing winds of midnight. All the cubs shivered in the cold of the desert night, but continued towards the south. The night finally gave way to the deadly rays of the desert sun as dawn approached. Umuntu stopped the cubs.) UMUNTU : Okay. Ten minute break. IMBALI : I think we're pushing the cubs to hard. UMUNTU : We don't have any choice. If we continue at this pace, we might reach the jungle by tomorrow morning. (The lions continued through the morning into the scorching afternoon of the desert. The burning sun made the lions sweat all over. By late afternoon Ilanga collapsed from exhaustion. Imbali picked her up and carried her further. But unfortunately Ilanga didn't survive the cold night of the desert and she joined her brother in the afterlife. As morning approached the lions saw the edge of the jungle in the distance.) [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------------ SCENE 19 : IN THE JUNGLE ------------------------ [FADE IN, EDGE OF THE JUNGLE] (Umuntu and the rest of the cubs approached the edge of the jungle as dawn appeared.) UMUNTU : At last, we're finally here. IMBALI : (approaching) We better find some water, 'cause we are all very thirsty. UMUNTU : Well, I'm thirsty as well. (to the rest) You all wait here while I go and look for water. IMBALI : What are we going to do about food ? You know we are not experienced hunters. UMUNTU : I'll think of something. (Umuntu left the small group in search of water. While walking through the jungle visions of what happened to his parents kept appearing in his mind. He also sensed that something was following him, but he couldn't point out from where came from. After about ten minutes of searching, he found a beautiful waterfall surrounded by a large pond.) UMUNTU : At last, some water. I'd better go and get the others. (Without drinking he returned to the cubs.) UMUNTU : I found some water, follow me. (The cubs followed Umuntu to the waterfall. When they saw the pond of water, they all cheered and ran for the life giving liquid. Once the cubs were finished, Umuntu finally got a chance to drink himself. Imbali approached from behind.) IMBALI : Your father would have been proud of you. UMUNTU : What do you mean ? IMBALI : Well you led all of us away from that awful place, then you took us through the scorching desert, managed to find water and let all of us drink before you. That is true qualities of a King. UMUNTU : If I'm a real King, why can't I even find food for starving cubs ? IMBALI : Well, we will just have to try and get some food. (Umuntu and Imbali tried to catch something each night, but always came back empty handed. They days passed slowly into weeks and still there was no food. Slowly all of the lions started to starve. By the end of two weeks, eight of the remaining eleven lions died of hunger. Umuntu and Imbali started to grow very thin and their bones were almost visible. They've reached the stage where their claws where permanently extended It looked like there was no hope for the once mighty lions of Pride Rock.) [FADE TO BLACK] ---------------------- SCENE 20 : THE MEETING ---------------------- [FADE IN, JUNGLE] (That night Umuntu laid near in a clearing fast asleep. For the first time in many nights his dream was beautiful, not like the all the other nightmares he has been having. He usually dreamed about when he and Okubi were young, where Okubi was still the innocent Namandla. There would always be something chasing Namandla, something very dark and powerful. And just as Namandla was caught by the thing, Umuntu would wake up screaming. But luckily it wasn't one of those nights. The dreams he has been having these past hours were peaceful. He dreamed about how his life would have been if his parents weren't killed. Then the dream faded into the beautiful face of his mother and the proud face of his father. The silence of the dream was broken as Umuntu spoke.) UMUNTU : I'm sorry I failed you both. ELICHE : Don't be ridiculous, you've have done great. UMUNTU : How could it have great ? Over half of us are dead, because of me. ORKAM : Son, don't blame yourself for a crime you didn't commit. ELICHE : Would you rather have seen them killed in the Pride Lands or rather die trying to get away from the Pride Lands. ORKAM : You must learn one thing my son, you can't save everything in life. UMUNTU : Then why must I bother to go on ? Why must I keep on living ? ELICHE : That is one thing you must figure out for yourself. UMUNTU : How can we keep on living ? We are not hunters. ORKAM : LISTEN MY SON AND LISTEN GOOD FOR ONCE JUST LOOK TO THE SKIES THERE YOU'LL SEE A PAIR OF GOLDEN EYES ELICHE : THEY MIGHT LOOK EVIL THEY MIGHT LOOK GOOD BUT BEHIND THOSE EYES IS A SOUL THAT NEVER LIES (They visions disappeared and Umuntu awoke in a cold sweat. And saw Imbali approach.) IMBALI : How are you holding out ? UMUNTU : You know, I just had a dream. IMBALI : Oh no, not another one of those nightmares. UMUNTU : No, this time it was different. IMBALI : In what way ? UMUNTU : I saw my parents. I think we might be receive help one of these days. IMBALI : I pray that we do. 'Cause there is only one cub left and we better get something into her stomach before she dies. UMUNTU : I'm sure something will happen. IMBALI : I really hope so. [FADE OUT] [FADE IN, DEEP JUNGLE] (It was early in the morning and Umuntu was already trying to catch something. He saw a small buck and started to stalk it. But unfortunately his stalking skills weren't so great and the buck heard him. The buck escaped before Umuntu could even start a pursuit.) UMUNTU : (very angry) Damn it. (He suddenly heard a deep male voice.) VOICE : Temper, temper. You'll never catch something that way. (Umuntu quickly looked around, but saw nothing.) UMUNTU : I demand to know who said that. VOICE : You demand, what are royalty or something ? UMUNTU : As the matter of fact, I am. (A strange creature suddenly jumped out a tree behind Umuntu.) CREATURE : I'm right here, if you want to talk. (Umuntu turned around and saw the strange creature.) UMUNTU : What are you ? CREATURE : Don't tell me you've never seen an animal like me before. UMUNTU : (looking at the creature) You look almost like a cheetah. CREATURE : Boy, do I wish. I am a leopard and my name is Ingwe. UMUNTU : I've heard my mother talk about leopards before, but I've never seen one until now. INGWE : You said you were royalty. UMUNTU : Yes I am. INGWE : And who might I ask are you ? UMUNTU : I am Prince Umuntu, son of Orkam. INGWE : (in disbelieve) You are King Orkam's son, (looking at Umuntu's face) my God what happened to your eye. UMUNTU : It's a long story...(realizing what Ingwe just said) You knew my father ? INGWE : Yes I do know your father, he was very good to us a couple of years back. Just one question, why did you use the word "knew". UMUNTU : (lowering his head) He died...a couple of weeks ago and so did my mother. INGWE : I'm sorry. What happened ? UMUNTU : Do you really want to know ? INGWE : It'll make you feel better. (Umuntu quickly summarized the events which happened a few weeks ago. Ingwe could only look on in disbelieve.) UMUNTU : And that is how we ended up here, and basically we're starving. I can't even remember the last time I ate. INGWE : Then I will help you. UMUNTU : Why would anybody want to help me ? INGWE : Don't tell me your giving up, I knew your father very well and believe me, he was no quitter. And if you're going to quit now then I don't believe that you're the son of Orkam. UMUNTU : Fine, how can you help us ? INGWE : I still have a small scrap of meat left from my previous kill, which we can give to the cub. UMUNTU : That will make me very grateful. (Ingwe jumped into the tree and got a nice piece of meat from his kill and returned down below.) UMUNTU : How did you get your kill way up there ? INGWE : It's hard to explain. Just take me to your resting place. As soon as the cub is asleep, I'll teach you and Imbali all about hunting and stalking. UMUNTU : Believe me I'm in your debt. INGWE : No don't be. I'll do it with pleasure. (Umuntu led Ingwe, who was jumping from tree to tree, to their small resting place near the waterfall. Imbali approach as Umuntu came into the small clearing.) IMBALI : Where have you been all morning ? I've been worried sick. UMUNTU : I'm sorry, but I've met someone who could help us. IMBALI : Oh really, and where is this someone ? UMUNTU : (calling) Hey Ingwe, you can come down now! (Ingwe jumped out of a tree.) IMBALI : (to Umuntu) What is that ? UMUNTU : He is a leopard and his name is Ingwe. He has agreed to help us. He even brought some meat for the cub. IMBALI : (to Ingwe) Thank you so much for helping us. INGWE : It is my pleasure to help someone in need of helping. IMBALI : (to Umuntu) And just for your information Mister, that cub's name is not "cub". Her name is Aidni. UMUNTU : Yes mam. INGWE : (to Umuntu) Looks like she's the boss around here. UMUNTU : You have no idea. IMBALI : I heard that. (Ingwe gave the meat to Aidni.) AIDNI : (in a weak voice) Thanks mister. INGWE : You're welcome. (Aidni ate and the joy of meat in her stomach made her tired. She quickly fell asleep after eating.) INGWE : (to Imbali and Umuntu) Now you two follow me, it's about time you learn to hunt for yourself. [FADE TO BLACK] ------------------------------ SCENE 21 : TORTURE OF THE MIND ------------------------------ [FADE IN, PRIDE ROCK] (Okubi's dreams hasn't been first class either. He had even worse dreams than Umuntu. He dreamed of the time when he was still a young cub called Namandla. In his dream he stood in front of the old ruins of Kisasian's den. An dark figure approached.) NAMANDLA : Who are you ? (The figure answered with a dark evil voice.) FIGURE : Why do you ask, when you know who I am. NAMANDLA : I don't know who you are. FIGURE : I'm called "The Mighty", but if you don't recognize me, let me show you. (The figure transformed into a mirror image of Namandla.) NAMANDLA : No, it can't be. THE MIGHTY : Oh, but it is. I am you. NAMANDLA : (starting to run away) NO!!!! THE MIGHTY : You can't run away from your destiny forever, and one day you would see it to be true. (Okubi woke up screaming. He quickly looked around and saw nobody.) OKUBI : (screaming out loud) GET OUT OF MY HEAD!!!!!!! (A voice echoed in his head.) VOICE : You will never escape me. (The voice faded with evil laughs.) OKUBI : (yelling) GUARDS ! GET IN HERE ! (The guards quickly entered trying not to anger Okubi.) OKUBI : Get Jembulika in here, RIGHT NOW !!!!! (The hyena guards left the den in search of Jembulika. They found him at the waterhole.) GUARD 1 : Jemmi, come quick. He is furious. JEMBULIKA : What did I do this time ? GUARD 2 : I don't know, but you must have angered him in some way. I've never seen him this angry before. GUARD 3 : I suggest you run...very fast. JEMBULIKA : I better get going. (Okubi paced around in the den, waiting for Jembulika to come. Jembulika entered the den silently.) JEMBULIKA : You called for me boss. OKUBI : That will be "SIRE" to you. JEMBULIKA : Of course sire. OKUBI : That's better. JEMBULIKA : How can I help you ? OKUBI : GET THIS THING OUT OF MY HEAD !!!! JEMBULIKA : Excuse me. (The voice returned to Okubi's head. But for some reason Jembulika heard it as well.) VOICE : If you try to get help of any sort, I will SNAP YOU LIKE A TWIG. OKUBI : (to Jembulika) Never mind. Get out of here. JEMBULIKA : (shocked) Yes sire, right away. (Jembulika left the den and started down Pride Rock.) JEMBULIKA : (to Himself) What have I created ? [FADE TO BLACK] ----------------------- SCENE 22 : DON'T BELONG ----------------------- [FADE IN, JUNGLE] (Time passed as time does. Umuntu and Imbali were both three years old now. Aidni was two years old. Umuntu was still very thin, no matter how much he ate, he stayed very thin. His mane has now grown into a thing of beauty. Imbali herself has grown into a very beautiful lioness, so did Aidni. Umuntu laid in the tall grass, busy stalking a small buck for supper.) UMUNTU : That's, just a bit closer. (The buck moved a bit more in Umuntu's direction.) UMUNTU : You're mine. (Umuntu jumped out of his hiding place and quickly pulled the defenseless buck to the ground. He quickly put the little creature out of his misery. Umuntu was just about to start his supper when he heard a familiar voice from above. It was Ingwe, sitting in a tree.) INGWE : I see you're finally learning cyclops. UMUNTU : Ingwe, you son of a....Where have been the last month ? INGWE : (seductive voice) Just a little personal business. UMUNTU : You devil. INGWE : Hey, you should speak for yourself. I heard you and Imbali have been... UMUNTU : Don't you dare go into my personal business. INGWE : Who me ? (sarcastically) Oh, I would dare. UMUNTU : Yeah, right. INGWE : So what you've been up to this last month ? UMUNTU : Why should I tell you when you already know ? INGWE : So I did hear correct, didn't I ? I also hear that you went a bit to far. UMUNTU : I don't want to brag, but yeah, you heard correct. Imbali is expecting. INGWE : When is she due ? UMUNTU : I think in about a week or so. INGWE : (teasing) And you're not even married, does your parents know about this ? UMUNTU : Let's just change the subject, okay ? INGWE : Fine, if you want to be the spoil sport. UMUNTU : Want some fresh kill ? INGWE : I thought you would never ask. (Ingwe jumped from the tree and started to feast with Umuntu.) INGWE : (looking at Umuntu) You are still very thin. UMUNTU : Tell me about it. No matter how much I eat, I still stay thin. INGWE : I don't know anything about lions, but I think it is probably just a stage you're going through. (Ingwe finished his share of the kill, licked his lips and jumped back into the tree.) UMUNTU : What is it with you and trees ? INGWE : I've grown quite attached to them