<<<<<>>>>>> "Tag! You're it!" Nala said as she pounced on Simba. He was now "it." "Not for long!" he replied with a sly grin on his face as he darted after Nala, Tinbo, and Itashi. Off on the sidelines of this "playing field," Zazu sat and kept a close eye on the four cubs as they tackled and jumped about. He was getting hot as he sat, preched on a rock in the hot afternoon sun. He felt as if he was baking. He desperately hoped the cubs would get hot too and want to go to the water hole. He could sure use a drink to quench his thirst. As Zazu's mind wandered from his duty Itashi was now it and chasing after Nala across the grass. "I'm gonna get you, Nala." he said as he huffed and puffed after her.Itashi was the fastest of the cubs, but he also happened to be the smallest. His father was Mufasa's friend since they were cubs. He and Simba also were friends just the same. "Not on your life," Nala said as she ran as fast as she could darting around a rock, "You couldn't catch a hippo!" Itashi may have been fast, but he wasn't the most agile. As he tried to follow Nala around the rock, his momentum carried him and he tripped. He slipped and headed straight for the absent-minded Zazu. "ZAZU!Look out!" Simba yelled to Zazu as he looked on. "WhaaAAAHHHHH!!" Zazu screamed right before the collision. Both Itashi and Zazu went rolling off of the rock and into some grass.All the other cubs could do was sit back and laugh at the hysterical sight. "That was GREAT!!" Tinbo said. "What a dodo!!" Nala continued. As the cubs laughed, Zazu picked Itashi off of him and corrected himself. Dusting himself off, Zazu blustered up and screamed,"Do you find that funny!!!Do you!!!I don't see what's so funny about it!" All the cubs stopped laughing, only momentarilty, then they burst out in laughter again."I thought it was hilarious!" Simba said inbetween laughs. "Why, you...you...you...children!!!You should respect your elders.I remember a time when I was just a small..." Zazu said but was interupted right before he could start his long story by two female Zebra that called his name. As Zazu stopped his story, the cubs gave a sigh of relief. At least now they wouldn't have to hear the monotonous story. But of course, curiosity got the better of Simba and as the other cubs started to frolic again, Simba started to walk over. As he walked closer he picked out phrases of the conversation between Zazu and the two Zebras. "Are you sure...saw it...in the Pridelands...never here before...this is bad...young one...looked harmless...I think not,they... trouble...Mufasa needs to know now...I didn't believe in humans..." 'Humans' Simba thought to himself. What was a human.he's never heard of one before.But of course he needed to know. "Uh,Zazu...what's a 'human?'" Simba said,interupting his conversation.But instead of Zazu answering, the fatter of the two female Zebras answered him. "Humans are horrible creatures!" she said in a tone of digust. Zazu then answered when the zebra finished. "A human, young master, is a creature that is very rare and very dangerous. They are creatures of trouble. They cause havok everywhere they go. And they have no regard for the animals." Simba was even more curious now. "Well, why don't we just talk to them? They can't be all that bad." "NO!" Zazu answered in a serious tone of voice that caused Simba to blink. "Humans are very ignorant of the world around them. They have lost the ability to communicate with animals anymore. They can only communicate with each other.And even then, not all humans can speak to each other." Zazu straightened up and put his wing on Simba's shoulder. "You see humans along time ago were in touch with the world. But now they have changed. They cause destruction alot, and hurt nature where ever they go. They only hurt the circle of life." Simba was confused. "But even if there is only one?" "Perhaps not, Simba, but better to stop it now before there are more." Zazu then motioned Simba to go back to the cubs. "You stay here. I must go warn your father. I'll be right back." the Zazu turned to fly away.But then he turned back. "And PLEASE stay out of trouble!" Zazu added almost pleading with the cubs. Then Zazu turned around, and flapped his wings and took off in a smooth motion. Behind him galloped the two zebras. But Simba was now to curious to stay out of trouble.As a sly grin again pasted his face, Simba decided he had to see the human. "Guys, GUYS!!!" Simba said to the others. "What?" Tinbo said as he stopped wrestling with Nala and itashi for a moment and rolled off of them.Tinbo was a larger cub.Slightly older than all the others. He was also larger. He wasn't fat, but not all muscle either. He was an even share of both. His fur was a darker color than Simba's too and had a longer face. His jaw was long along with his face. Now with Tinbo gone, Itashi was easily pinned by Nala. "Pinned ya!" Nala said as she did this and then rolled off too. "Only cause I was bored and let you." Itashi said it retort with a look of disgust. As they focused their attention on Simba they grew impatient. "What do you want?" Nala said getting bored already. Simba smile just grew larger as he prepared his delivery. "How would you guys like to see a human?" <<<<>>>> "A what?" "A human. Zazu just told me about them." Simba said with a gleeful smile. Having just learned something new, that the other cubs didn't always made him feel good with pride. After all, he has to seem smart, he'd be king someday. "but what's a human, Simba? I've never seen one before." Itashi replied as he rolled over onto his stomach. Simba's eyes shifted as he tried to remember what he had been told just a few moments ago about the creature. "Ah, they're really scary, dumb animals,I think. Zazu said that they were bad and they are almost never in the Pridelands. He said there is one here though now. And I wanna see it. What about you guys?" "I DO!" Nala said instantly. What ever Simba did, she knew she could too. Though one of the few girl cubs in the pride, she was more of a tomboy type. Though she did like doing the girl things too, she was around the boys the most because she also like boy things too. And she wasn't about to be shown up by any boy. "Sorry Simba, me and my dad are going to the gorge in a little while. He's gonna teach me how to catch yak. " Tinbo said as he stood up on his haunches. "Me either. I gotta go home. My mom said I need a bath before dinner time." Itashi rolled over again. His mom is right, Simba thought to himself. Itashi was always dirty. Dirt and mud seemed to be attracted to him. And even though Itashi washed more than any other cub, he always got dirtiest, the quickest. "Fine then!" he said bitterly, "Me and Nala will go and you two can go home. I'm gonna see that human." Simba then turned away to start his way to see the human without as much as a see you later. Nala started to get up and said to the others, "We'll see you later, okay?" Then she trotted to catch up to Simba. It was still early in the afternoon when they left, heading out away from Pride Rock towards where the Zebra's came from, hoping he'd get to see this 'thing.' "Simba, what does the human look like?" Nala said as they walked along down a semi-trodden path. "Well, "Simba started as he thought, "humans are scary creatures. They're dirty and grubby. Zazu says that they can't talk to the animals because they are soooooo dumb. They can only talk to themselves. But we can understand what they say, just that they can't talk with us." "They are mean and will worse than hyenas!" Simba was now just making up from the top of his head. "If they're so dangerous,aren't you scared of them?" Nala asked. "ME!?No WAY!My other name is danger!" Simba said as he straightened his back, trying to look powerful and tough. Well if Simba wasn't scared, neither was she. Then all of a sudden, they heard a crack of the brush up ahead. Then a small flock of birds flew up from the tall grass. One passed overhead. "Hey you!" Simba whispered, "What are you running from?" The bird stopped in front of the two cubs and landed. The bird was a young colorful bird. He stood in front of the two cubs, who were much larger than him, trembling somewhat. "I...I...I dddon't know. It came from the stream over there." The little bird said pointing ahead of the cubs a little to the right. But the tall grass got in the way of their view.Both Simba and Nala looked at each other with faces of surprise and jaws hanging open. "It...it must be the human!" Simba managed to say. "Yeah, and its right over there." Nala said in return. They started to slowly move towards the direction the bird pointed in,crouched down, as if stalking prey, but the little bird interupted. "Wait!!" he said loudly. Then he lowered his voice after realizing he spoke to loudly. "What if it is baaaad..." Simba and Nala looked at each other again. Then Nala looked at the bird and said, "Then you'd better come with us, so we don't get hurt." This was meant to make the young bird feel better and it worked. The bird felt good that he'd be with someone. "Ok..my name is Nosni." he said with a little quiver in his voice. "My name's Nala and this is Simba." Then Simba shushed Nosni and Nala down and motioned them to crouch down. Nala crouched down. Nosni flapped his wings and got enough height to perch himself on Nala's neck. Then he ducked down just like the cubs. Then they started to slowly move forward. They were no more than 15 feet away when a splashing sound came from the stream, breaking the silence and causing all the young cubs and Nosni to jump with a quick yelp of surprise. They instatly quieted down again and walked forward. Simba was ahead of Nala as he neared the edge of the grass.He could see the shadow of a figure moving through the tall grass. As he grew closer the figure became more clear. It wasn't so big. Actually, not as big as expected. It was also very skinny. He was now about to break the final layer of the grass obstructing his view. he slowly inched forward, quietly. Then finally he peeked his head through just enough to see the figure that was more than 10 feet away. A figure that was strange. It had no hair except for the top of its head where dark brown hair covered it. something like hair covered it chest partially that was light brown. Its legs were covered halfway by another strange fur that was also light brown. It carried a round thing which it was dipping in the water. but the most surprising thing was that this creature wasn't big. In fact it was smaller than he imagined. It wasn't scary, and it wasn't mean looking. It looked harmless and it was young too he could tell. No older than he was,he thought. <<<<<>>>>> It looked strange, Simba thought to himself, as he glared at the creature. It looked nothing like he thought it would. He pictured a thing bigger, scarier, and meaner looking than a hyena. But this "human" didn't look that way at all. Now Nala had peaked her head through too, with Nosni perched on her neck, pearing over her ears. The colorful bird was trembling quite a bit. "Stop shaking, will ya?" Nala whispered. "Do you want it to see us?" Nosni tried to stop shaking and succeeded for a few second. But when the human shifted a little, he slowly started to shake again. Simba and Nala both cocked their heads as they looked at this thing near the water. It was moving a shiny thing through the water. Then it put the shiny thing under the water and bubbles came from it. After a few moments, this "human" lifted it out of the water and put it to its mouth and poured water out of it into its mouth. It was drinking water from the thing it was holding. They could still be in danger Simba thought to himself. What if it really was dangerous and mean? What if it was wild and had large claws and teeth? But how could it be? It looked innocent enough. It wasn't large. It looked skinny, but it was longer than he was. He couldn't see any teeth or claws. But its paws looked more like a baboon's than his. And Simba knew that baboon's have no really sharp claws. Simba looked at Nala quickly. She was as intersted as he was. She then glanced at him and gave him a look of curiosity. "It doesn't look that mean?" Nala said. "Shhh! It might hear you." Nosni said from above. Then the human's head shot up like it heard something. Its back was turned to them so they couldn't see its. The all held their breath for a second, but the it didn't look over. It then went back to doing what it was doing. It put the shiny thing back in the water, but this time when it was done, it put something on the top of the shiny thing, covering the hole. Then the human started to wash off in the water. As it splashed water on its face, Simba got a glance of it. It was hairless. It had a mouth and a wierd nore that pointed out. No whiskers either. It did have fur on the top of its head that was dark brown, almost black. Its eyes were brown too. But Simba also figured that this thing was young. it looked like a it could only be a human cub. But of course, he's never seen a human before, so this could be the adult and dangerous. A strong breeze came blowing by, cooling off the cubs from the hot afternoon sun. The human also seemed to like it. It then started to wave its outer, light brown fur. It seemed to be loose like it was over his body. "Simba, I'm scared. What if it sees us?" Nala whispered over to Simba out the corner of her mouth. Nosni leaned down to hear Simba's reply. "Don't worry, it won't see us if we're quiet." At least he hoped it wouldn't see them. "But I want a closer look." "Simba!" Nala whispered quietly but with force. "Be careful." He didn't answer, but instead walked forward slowly, low to the ground. Nosni eyes opened wide and jaw dropped to the ground. But Simba moved closer, wanting a better look, only covered by a little grass now. The human now sat up a little and Simba could see its face clearly. He quickly igured out that it was a boy just by its features. And it had a sad look on its face. Simba's face looked up a little, curious eyes staring at this boy. In the background, Nala and Nosni were still ducking, watching Simba who had moved nearly 4 feet closer and almost easily visable. "Simba..." Nala whispered to herself, not expecting Simba to hear, but hoping he did. She wanted him to get away from the human. But then the worst thing happened and what Nala and Nosni expected only in the worst scenario. Simba, who wasn't an expert stalker by far, stepped right on a stiff twig and a loud *SNAP* followed. The boy instantly stood up, he was taller than Simba expected. About the size of a baboon standing up. He turned around right toward the cubs. Nala, Nosni, and Simba swallowed hard. *GULP*! The boy then spotted them all, and started to look at them strangely. He then walked slowly towards them. He had just taken one step forward when Nosni panicked. "IT'S GONNA GET US!!RUN!!!!" Nosni took off and started flying off wildly. Simba and Nala then instantly jetted off right behind the bird, running as fast as they could. They ran like a herd of hyenas were after them. And they weren't even sure the boy had started to chase them yet. But they ran anyway. Nosni flew in front follwed closey by Nala. Simba who started running last was behind by about 10 feet but catching up. They ran blindly through the tall grass, unable to see more than a few feet in front of them at any time. Simba could barely see Nala when all of a sudden she disappeared. Less than a second later, he found out why as Simba saw a steep hill in front of him. He tried to stop but was going to fast and slid down the hill all the way to the bottom. His momentum was stopped when he rolled into Nala, knocking her down as she was getting up. The cubs had rolled down the steep hill and landed near the bank of a small stream in a mini valley. Both sides were fairly steep but not too high. Only about 4 or 5 feet and the sides were made dirt and grass. They both quickly got up,breathing hard. "Did...did you see it?!?" "Yeah." Nala said, "But was it behind us?" "How should I know? I didn't stick around to ask it any questions or anything!I just ran!" Simba retorted. Nosni landed next to them. "What if its after us?" "I didn't see it or hear it. Maybe it didn't chase after us!" Nala answered in between breaths. "Anyway, it didn't look that mean." "Well, why don't you go back and ask it!" Simba joked also trying to catch his breath. "Ha ha!" Nala said sarcastically. "I thought you were mister tough guy. I didn't see you stick around. All I saw was you turn your tail and run." "Only cause you ran!" "Children,children,children," a voice rang out from some bushes a few feet away. Then a shadowy figure emerged. "Can't we all jsut get along?" It wasn't the human, that's for sure. It was on for legs, not two like the human cub was. Then it stepped clearly into the afternoon sun.It was a hyena!! "Well, well, well, what have we here, Ororo? Visitors?" the hyena said. Then from the thick bushes another hyena emerged. This one was smaller than the first. But the first one looked large, tough and mean. "I don't think that's what they are, Saki?" the second one said. Both now had sly grins on their face. Simba and Nala both started to back away slowly. Nosni was scared stiff, unable to move, except for shaking. "Well, what DO you think we have here? Trepassers?" "Weeeellllll, could be, but I don't think so..." the smaller one replied. "No, well, what DO you think we have here?" His eyes lite up, glaring at the cubs. The cubs hair started to stand on end in anger and fear. "Well, " Ororo answered then licked his lips once, "I think what we have here is....DINNER!!!" <<<<>>>> "D...d...dinner?!" The human may have scared them, but now they were in REAL danger! The two hyenas eyed them down, sizing them up for lunch. The cubs slowly backed away, only to back themselves into the steep, wall-like sides of the ravine they fell into. It was only a few feet to the top, but they wouldn't have time or the chance to climb the steep, dirt slope. "Why yes, you are going to be the main course." The bigger hyena said, in reply to Simba's stutter. "But your little bird friend here will be the appetizer." That caused Nosni to freeze instantly. It even stopped his trembling he was so scared. The rainbow bird was between Simba and Nala, but then Simba stepped sideways to cover the bird from the hyenas sight. "What is this?" Ororo questioned, "Is the little, itty, bitty cub gonna protect this little birdy?" Then the two hyenas looked at each other and started to laugh, hysterically. This caused Simba to get angry. He posed like he was a large lion, trying to be like his dad, Mufasa would. His fur stood on end and his claws and teeth were bared. "Rrrrraaawwwww!" Simba let out a roar as best he could. The hyenas stopped for a second then they started to laugh even harder than before. "PUH-LEAZE! That would scare an ant!" Saki laughed out. "What!?I didn't even hear anything!" Ororo retorted sarcastically. Rrrraaawwwwww!!" Simba roared again, a little louder than before. A little behind Simba, Nala looked on, scared and angry also. "Oh! That was much better!Hoo haa haa!" "I think it was a fly in my ear." Saki said. "I guess we better swat the fly!" Saki then pulled back and proceeded to hit Simba with a backhand across the cub's face. As Nala gasped, Simba fell down a few feet away. Nala then quickly ran over to Simba, even Nosni got the strength to run over. Simba was shaking his head, trying to clear it. He was about to cry. "Hoo HA! What a blast!" Ororo said to Saki. "Saki, you're sooooooo funny, you kill me!" Then Nala yelled out, partially from anger, partially from fright. "What's so funny! You're cruel and sick, you ugly pouchers!!" Nala instantly realized her mistake and ducked back a little, her ears bending down. Simba looked on, still dizzy from the hit. The two hyenas stopped for a second. "What...what did you say? Saki, I don't think they like us." "I think you're right. This isn't fun anymore." The two hyenas had stopped laughing now and now looked more scary as they became more serious looking. Then, the large one took on a mean look. "I think our guests don't appreciate our entertainment. So I think the show is over for them." he said. The smaller one didn't reply. They only both started to walk forward, slowly. Their teeth were starting to show and claws were now clearly visible. Simba got up, and stepped in front of Nala and Nosni, kow full well that he couldn't stop the hyenas, but he had to try. Nosni, able to move now, was slowly walking backwards, towards the steep slope and Nala was behind Simba, crouched down. They were all scared. The hyenas were now getting really close and they could hear a low growl coming from them. Simba took a defense stance, hair on his back up, his teeth showing and growling. The hyenas were just about jumping distance away and the cubs were back into the corner of this little valley, saftey only 4 or 5 feet above them. Then in less than an instant, the larger one took a pouncing stance and hurled himself at the cubs, his jaws opens, slobber coming from his mouth, his claws ready to strike. All Simba saw was the large hyena abouut to land on top of him. Simba cringed. Then in a blur Simba saw a club swing from above them and catch the hyena in mid-air. The hyena let out a high pitched yelp as the momentum of the swing sent him soaring some feet away. Simba, Nala, Nosni and even the other hyena stopped and looked above them and onto the mini ridge. All they could make out in the afternoon sun was a figure, standing on two legs, holding the club that hit the hyena. Simba and Nala knew instantly it was the human. By this time, both hyenas had regained their senses as to what they were doing. But the human had also jumped down to the cubs. The human picked up Nosni and lightly, but quickly tossed his onto the top of the ridge. And then the human did something that startled the two already amazed cubs. "QUICK! Climb up and run!" The human spoke! The hyenas started marching forward towards the human and the frozen cubs. The human nudged Simba and spoke again. "Run! Quick!" This time Simba and Nala started to move. Then they accelerated and started to climb the slope. They ran on the loose dirt, slipping alot. Simba heard noises behind him. Mostly growling and a yelp. As Simba quickly glanced behind him, he saw the boy swing at the hyenas. The hyenas were keeping just out of reach, but stayed close. Simba reached the top, and looked at the human as he helped Nala up. When Nala got up, they started to run away. The last thing of the human that Simba saw was one of the hyenas bite hard on the club and it splintering quite a bit. But Simba and Nala still ran. They had run up a small hill no more than 100 feet when they reached the top. They were surprised what they found at the top. At the top, they spotted Zazu fying. Then quickly they saw that he was just a little ahead of two lions. It was Simba's mom and dad running towards them. <<<<>>>> "Dad!DAD!!!DAD!!!" Simba repeatedly yelled as he ran toward his father Mufasa. Mufasa had a look of anger on his face and so did Simba's mother. Zazu flew to Simba and started to bark at him. "I thought I told you to stay out of trouble! I thought I told you..." but Simba didn't pay any attention to the bird. He ran right to his father. "Dad! Quick! Hyenas are right down there!" Simba said as he pointed to the base of the hill and down to the place where Simba and Nala were now running from. "Quick, they're going to kill the cub!" Mufasa didn't need to hear another word or say anything. He grew instantly determined as he looked to where Simba had pointed and took off, speeding toward the sounds. Simba and Nala started to follow but Serabi grabbed them both by the scruff of their necks. Zazu then followed along when he saw thee cubs were in check. Simba struggled. "Mom, I gotta go down there or dad's gonna hurt the human!" Serabi grew shocked for an instant as she heard the word human. That was all the distraction Simba needed. He twisted and turned from his mother's grip and took off down the hill after Mufasa. He was a good distance behind when he heard his dad growl and jump into the little valley. In less than a moment Simba could see his dad again. He was fighting off the hyenas. Simba looked on in awe. He knew his dad was strong, but he had never saw him actually fight hyenas before. He saw how big Mufasa really was compared to the hyenas as they looked puny compared to the king. And then Simba felt really small and ashamed. These were the same hyenas that beat him up earlier. Simba also saw no sighn of the boy either as he watched his father bat the hyenas around. Both Saki and Ororo were scared out of their minds, but attempted to put up a brave front by blindly attacking Mufasa. Everytime he batted a hyena away, the other would hop on him, biting and scratching. Now Simba was quickly joined by Serabi and Nala. But by this time, the hyenas realized they were getting beat and lost. They yelped as they turned tail and ran. Simba felt proud. That was his dad. He hoped he would only grow up to be that strong and brave someday. But then Simba saw Mufasa turn around and growl at something that was hidden from Simba's view. Simba looked at Nala and they both realized what it was. They instinctly slid down the slope and at the same time yelled, "NO!!!" They could now see they were right. It was the boy who Mufasa was growling at. And he looked very bad. "Where's the cub!?" Mufasa said, the anger still in his face. Nala and Simba both took a deep breath. "That's the cub." And then they swallowed hard. "WHAT!?!" Mufasa yelled, which seemed almost a roar as it shook the two cubs and the boy even grimaced at the sound. Serabi now was standing next to Mufasa as he looked at the human. "I was hoping I wouldn't have to do this." Mufasa said as he approached the boy, claws retracted. "NO!" Simba yelled as he ran around his dad and in front of the boy, blocking Mufasa's path to him. "You can't!" "I have to! He's a human. They are dangerous and bad. They only cause misfortune where they go." Mufasa replied to the cub as he loomed over him. "But...but...but he saved our lives..." Simba stuttered out. Serabi's, Zazu's and Mufasa's jaws dropped. No one could speak and the silence was thick. It was broken when Serabi spoke. "Simba, you can't be serious?" "It's true!" Nala said as she jetted next to Simba. "If it wasn't for him, the hyenas would have eaten us!" "This...this is preposterous! Impossible!" Zazu said taking a fit. Then Nosni flew to the cubs, quivering. "It's true, your majesty. He did." Nosni said as respectfully as he could. Mufasa's face no longer looked angry, it was one of bewilderment and despair as he battled himself in his mind, thinking. Serabi looked at Mufasa. "You can't kill him." Simba continued. "He saved our lives. We owe him." "No,you don't." a voice said quietly, almost inaudible. And it was paid no attention. Serabi also felt Mufasa's indecision. Mufasa was motionless as he spoke. "I still have to kill him." "WHAT?!You can't!" the cubs said. Mufasa looked down. "You don't understand, he can't be here. You don't know the troubles, the problems he can cause." Serabi then twisted around, now standing next to the cubs and facing Mufasa. "Mufasa, how can you say that?" "It just can't be. How do you expect him to stay in the Pridelands. He doesn't belong, he's a human!" Mufasa said. "That's true." the same voice rang out unnoticed. "Look at him, Mufasa! He's a boy, no older than Simba. How can you say he's dangerous?" Serabi argued. "It just can't be, it is against everything we've been taught. How can I chage that now? He has to be killed. I'm sorry." His face became long. "That's okay." the same, quiet voice said, unnoticed. "But dad, I thought you were king, I thought you could do anything." Simba said, looking at his father's long face. "If it were only that easy, Simba." Mufasa then pushed the three aside and started to approach the boy. Serabi straightened up and spoke in a forceful tone. "Mufasa, he SAVED your son. OUR son." She continued as Mufasa paused. "He's a man cub, just like Simba, no older than our son. What if this was Simba? Could you kill such a young, innocent creature?" "Serabi, why must you make this more difficult for me than it already is?" Mufasa said as he looked back. Serabi knew in his eyes he was going through torment in his decision. "Dad, please. He can't be that bad if he'd rick his life saving us." Simba said, pleading with his father. "Simba, I don't want this done either. But it must." Mufasa said. Then this time the voice rang out again. "Simba, listen to your father, he knows best." This time they noticed and they realized where the other voice was coming from. If they were amazed before, they were surprised beyond words this time when they came to realize that it was the boy who had spoke! <<<<>>>> All present stared at the boy in disbelief.From the cubs to the king, all were baffled. "D...d...dad...how does he know my name?" Simba stuttered, never taking his eyes of the injured boy. But before Mufasa could answer, the boy answered for him. "Because everyone called you that, so I figured it was your name." the boy said, straining through pain. Again, they were all surprised to hear the boys words. It wasn't so much as them understanding the boy either. All animals understand humans. But it was the fact that the boy understood what they had said! Nala was the first to step forward, walking closer to the boy, looking him over curiously. "I thought humans couldn't talk to animals." she said looking at the wounded boy. "They can't! This isn't POSSIBLE!" Zazu exclaimed. The boy shifted. "Well, most humans CAN'T talk with animals. But I'm not MOST humans." Mufasa cleared his throat and regained his composure. "That is most certainly true. Though I'm not sure why." The boy shifted again, attempting to sit up, propping himself against the slope of the hill. He was holding his stomach and blood was visible on his hands. Serabi's mother instincts took over then. She walked up to the boy and said in a concerned voice, "You're hurt!" "It was the hyenas!" Simba said. "The SAME hyenas that would have eaten us if he didn't save us!" Serabi looked at Mufasa. She saw Mufasa looking at the young child. Then he spoke. "Why did you do it? Why did you risk your life to save the two cubs?" He answered without much of a pause. "Because they were in trouble. And I had nothing to lose." "You could have lost your life!" Mufasa said. The boy lowered his head, looking at the ground. His face grew longer. "Like i said, I had nothing to lose." This caused a moment of silence. Mufasa now stepped closer to the boy, at then sat at the feet of the boy. He now looked concerned. "What are you doing way out here?" he asked. The boy looked up and saw the massive lion, but didn't look to be intimidated. "I had no where else to go." Simba spoke out. "Dad...he's hurt and needs a place to stay. Can he stay with us?" Then Nala and Simba looked at Mufasa and said in synch, "PLEASE!" It didn't seem to sway Mufasa. "What is your name, son?" The boy looked puzzled for a moment. "Um, its Chad." he replied. Nala stepped forward and smiled. "My name's Nala." Then Simba followed, "And mine's Simba!" The boy smiled back. Mufasa then introduced himself. "I am Mufasa, I am the king of the Pridelands. And this is my mate, Serabi. You've met my son and his friend already." The boy's eyes opened wider. "Your majesty." The he bowed his head. Mufasa only smiled at this gesture. Then, before he could speak again, he was interupted. Nosni flew right in front of Mufasa. "Hi...my name's Nosni. Pleased to meet you." Nosni was no longer trembling. How could he not feel safe around the king. "And thank you for saving me." "No problem." Chad said with a smile. Then a subtle cough came from behind Mufasa. The king got the hint. Moving to the side a little, Zazu was visible. "And this is Zazu, my major domo." "Pleased to meet you, young man." Zazu said, with just a little forced smile. Chad could tell Zazu felt uncomfortable around him. Then the boy felt a sharp pain as he twisted his torso to the side. He grimaced. Mufasa looked hard at the young boy, who just earlier had saved his son's life. He knew what must be done. "Serabi, take Zazu and the cubs home. Tell the other lionesses that ahead of time that the boy will be following shortly after you. It'd be best if they were prepared." Simba and Nala looked at each other with big smiles, but stayed silent, only through great fortitude. Serabi looked at Mufasa and gave him a smile of gratitude and appreciation. She wastrying to help her mate deal with the tough decision he had just made. She turned around and nodded to Zazu. "Come children. Let's leave your father alone. They'll be along shortly." Then children gave on quick glance back at Chad and then followed Serabi up and over the hill. Nosni also followed along, but first he flew to Chad, right in front of his face. he smiled and said, "Bye and thank you." "Bye." Chad replied, returning the warm smile in kind. When everyone had disappeared over the hill, Mufasa then finally spoke. "You are obviously different from most humans. You can speak with us and you saved my son ." He stood up from his sitting position. "For that, I am in your debt." He then walked closer, inspecting the boy's wounds. He was cut on the arm and on the chest pretty badly. He had no bite marks but many scratches. "Though it will be difficult, you may stay with the pride, free from harm. We will help your wounds and give you shelter and food." "I appreciate that. But, I'm not sure that would be right. How can you even trust me?" "You saved my son when you had no reason to. You saved the future king. I and the Pridelands owe you this much." Mufasa replied. Mufasa was no longer looking at the boy, he was now staring into the distance. "If I had lost my son, I don't know what I would have done. I thank you. More than you know. Please, stay with us." Chad looked at the lion, looking curiously at him. "I guess that would be okay. I promise not to cause any trouble or do anything. And only if I have to do my wn part.No one goes out of their way for me.Deal?" Mufasa smiled at the boy. It was the first smile Chad had seen from him. "How can I argue with that? Deal." <<<<<>>>>> Mufasa stepped closer to Chad. "Here. Let me help you up." Mufasa then bent his head down and nudged the boy up into a standing position. The boy groaned in discomfort as he put his weight down. "Don't worry. We'll take care of those cut." Mufasa said ina calming voice. Chad forced a smile. "Thanks." Then they started to walk in silence, Chad following the king. Mufasa could sense the strain he was in going up the hill. Without speaking, Mufasa edged closer into a position where Chad was leaning on him, not putting all his weight down. After they had reached the top, the view of the Pridelands stretched across the landscape in the mid-afternoon sun.Pride Rock was visible some distance away. "WOW! Its great!" Chad exclaimed at the sight. Mufasa smiled. "This is my kingdom. And you are welcome here." Chad stood still for a moment, taking it all in. Then Mufasa nudged him on. Mufasa was a great more massive than the boy, who looked tiny in comparison. But Chad didn't look scrawny of frail. In fact, he looked rough. Cuts and bruises were now setting in from the fight with the hyenas. But it didn't seem to phase Chad to much. The silence was broken off. "Chad, what are you doing way out here? Most humans never come out this far, much less a man cub." Chad looked at the king, who looked back waiting for an answer. "It's a looong story...and not a happy one either." "Well Chad," Mufasa said, then looking off in the distance to Pride Rock, then back at Chad, "I think you have time to tell it." Meanwhile Sarabi and the cubs were far ahead, not able to see Mufasa and the boy. Sarabi was in the back, herding the cubs while Zazu was flying ahead of them. Simba and Nala walked side-by-side. And on Nala's head rode Nosni, who was relaxing, happy to get a rest. "Sarabi," Nala said, "why did the king want to kill the boy?" "Yeah mom, why?" Simba continued, both now turning for a reply. Sarabi nudged the cubs to keep them moving forward. "Its hard to explain, kids." She took a second to think about what she was going to say, knowing children think differently than adults. "Well, the boy is a human," she paused momentarily, "and most of the animals in the Pridelands don't like humans. Your father was just trying to do what's best for the kingdom." Nala got a puzzled look and Simba cocked his head at his mother. "But why don't they like humans?" Nala finally said. "Well, Nala, alot of the humans are bad people. They cause alot of trouble where they go and disrupt the circle of life. That's why most of the animals don't want any humans here. They're afraid of the danger humans are." Sarabi answered. Once again, the cubs were bewildered. "But Chad can't be dangerous. He's only a cub. AND he saved our life! How can he be bad?" Simba said. Sarabi stopped and so did the cubs. "Well, I don't think Chad is bad. He's obviously very special...especially if he can talk to us. I'm not afraid of Chad, but the other animals, who haven't seen him and don't know what he did would be afraid of him. The boy could be in danger just by being with us because the other animals may not want him with us." "That's not fair!" Nala said. "I know, that's stupid!" Simba followed. "I know, that's why your father had to make a tough decision. Now run along so we can catch up to Zazu." Sarabi said as she pushed the children forward again. As they started to gallop on ahead,she silently whispered to herself. "I only hope it isn't the wrong decision." Up ahead the children caught up to Zazu. "Hey Zazu!" Simba yelled ahead. "Isn't it cool...we're gonna have a human livin' with us!" Zazu's face turned to one of disgust. "Yecch...a human. I don't KNOW what your father was thinking!" "Huh? You don't like the human?" Simba asked curiously. Zazu turned his head around. "Absolutely NOT!" Nala then caught up to Simba as she looked at Zazu who had an expression of grief. "What's wrong with the dodo?" she asked Simba. "He doesn't like the human." "Why?" she said in reply to Simba, then Nala turned to Zazu. "Why don't you like the human? I thought he was cool." Zazu answered, not even looking back at her. "Humans are not "cool." They are dirty, troublesome creatures. You're father made a mistake not getting rid of him." "That's not nice to say about him." Nala said. "Well, I think you're a loud-mouthed, big-beaked pelican!" Zazu ignored his comment completely only flying faster ahead of the cubs. The cubs then slowed their pace. Nala looked at Simba and said, "I guess you're mom was right, not everyone is gonna like the human. If zazu doesn't agree with Mufasa, what about everyone else?" "I don't know." Simba replied sorrowfully. <<<<<<>>>>>> "So..." Mufasa said, "are you going to answer me or just keep silent for the rest of the long walk." He was joking around with the boy, trying to make him feel more comfortable. Of course that would be almost impossible being the only human for hundreds of miles, and i the company of a lion. Not just any lion either, this was the king of the Pridelands. Chad couldn't help but be a little nervous. "I don't know where to begin." the boy said, answering the lion. "Well...first of all, where is your pride? They must be a little worried that you have strayed." Mufasa asked the boy. But he didn't answer right away. As soon as he heard the question his expression turned blank. Then he looked down at his feet. "I...don't ave a family." he finally answered. Mufasa then felt extremely bad for asking. "Oh...what happened to them?" Mufasa asked, knowing he probably shouldn't have asked. "They died." the boy said emotionless. Mufasa looked at the boy, saddened by this. He looked forward towards Pride Rock as they walked towards it. Sarabi was sure to be there by now. The king then turned back to the boy and continued his questions. "Is that why you are out here? Because your family died?" Chad only looked at the lion for a moment then turned his head toward Pride Rock. "Sort of." "Well, that doesn't help much. Why are you out here then?" Mufasa felt uncomfortable at asking all the questions. He wished for once he was just a lesser lion and not the king. "Well..." Chad started, "I guess I'll start from the best place...the beginning." Chad took a deep breath before starting, not knowing exactly how to start. "Ever since I was little, I've been able to talk to the animals. I could talk to them before I could talk to other people. And since my father ran a farm, I grew up talking with all the animals. "As I grew up, I found out people weren't always that nice. I ended up spending most of my time with the animals. They were my friends and I was theirs. They were never mean or spiteful. They were always there for me." Chad paused, checking to see if Mufasa was paying attention. He was, actually, he was engrossed in the tale. He then continued. "Well, most of my village thought I was wierd and strange but didn't care much about me. Until I started freeing the animals from their cages from the farmers that mistreated them. Then they got angry at me for that. But my father was a well-liked person in the village so most people put up with it as long as I was scolded by my father." Chad then tripped on a stone and fell down, interupting the tale. Since Chad was wounded he had to strain to walk so much and obviously it was taking its toll, making him clumsy. As he fell he let out a yelp of pain. Chad then sat up, and dusted off his wounds in pain. He did not cry or wimper. "Here, lean on me." Mufasa said as Chad stood up. "Thanks, your highness." Chad said. "Please, Chad, my friends call me Mufasa." he said, in hopes that this would make the boy feel more comfortable. A smile reassured him that it did. As they started to walk again, Chad continued. "Well, after this went on for some time, about a month ago something happened. "My family..."Chad then corrected himself, "My pride was asleep in our home, me, my father, mother and sister. Then unexpectedly, a fire started outside and caught our home on fire. But we were all asleep." "Well, the animals in the barn woke up and saw the fire and tried to wake us up. I was asleep in my room when I heard their warnings. But since I was the only one that could understand them, I was the only one awake in time." Chad's eyes started to water up a little as he kept telling his tale. "I tried to get them out but the fire had already caught most of our home on fire." Tears then started to slowly run down his face. "I yelled and screamed trying to wake them up, but it was so hot and smoky, that I had to get out. I couldn't do a thing. I...I..." Chad sniffed once and tried to control his tears before they got out of control. Mufasa stopped walking and patted the boy. "Its okay...it wasn't your fault." He didn't know what else to say. He felt bad. He could tell that Chad was really hurting. Mufasa comforted Chad for a few moments until he regained his composure. "Thanks...I think I feel better now. I've been running so long that I haven't had a chance to cry. I'll be fine now." Chad said smiling at Mufasa,wiping away the tears from his cheeks. "Anyway..." Chad continued, speaking as controlled as he could. "After the fire, some people consoled me but now that my father was gone alot of the farmers blamed me for their death, they...they said it was my fault for being a bad son and that I should have saved them. Then alot of them, the ones I had set animals free from came after me. "I didn't stick around though. I ran away. I ran out here because I knew no people would find me and because I felt like it would be better being around the only ones to ever understand me, the animals." Chad was done now and Mufasa smiled as they walked to Pride Rock. Right then and there Mufasa thought to himself. He know knew that he had made the right decision of letting the boy stay. There was something special about him and Mufasa would make sure that everything would be okay. <<<<>>>> "MOM!!!" Nala ran straight to her mom, who was sitting on a rock, waiting anxiously for her daughters return. "Mom, you won't believe what happened!" Nala said excitedly, purring as she jumped to her mother. Her mother sat down on her haunches and instantly hugged her child. Sarabi then walked up the path, Simba bounding behind her. Zazu perched himself on a nearby rock. Nosni, who had woken up just recently from his nap on Nala's neck, also perched himself next to Zazu. "Sarabi! You found them. I'm so thankful!" Kisha, Nala's mom, exclaimed. Then she looked at Nala and took a more serious look. "Where were you? What kind of trouble did you get into now, Nala?" "Oh, you won't believe it! We..." then Nala was cut short by Sarabi. "Nala, I think I should tell you mother. But not yet, Kisha. I need to speak with the other lions and lionesses all at once. Can you gather them for me?" Sarabi asked. Kisha nodded and went off to gather the pride members who were not already present. Simba then looked at Sarabi and asked, "Why do we haveta wait to tell 'em?" "Well, Simba, remember what I told you. We have to break it to everyone at once and gently or else it could make things worse." Then before anybody else spoke Itashi and Tinbo ran down the path. Itashi then pounced on Simba in excitement. "Did you see it?? Huh? Did ya???" he asked while on top on Simba. "Uf!" Simba said as he hit the ground. "Yeah..." Simba said pushing Itashi off, "we saw him...and he's coming back too!" Tinbo and Itashi both gaped at what Simba said and could only reply with, "Cool!" Sarai then shushed the boys. "We can't tell anyone yet. Not just yet anyway." The cubs quieted down quickly but its was obvious they were all excited. In a few moments all the lions and lionesses had gathered on the path and surroundings. The cubs quieted down and then they were motioned to sit down, out of the way by Sarabi. Then she motioned to Zazu. Then Zazu spoke up. "Everyone." he said, "EVERYONE!" Then they all quieted down. Zazu continued. "The king, Mufasa will be joining us all momentarily. Before he arrives, Sarabi must speak with all of you about a pressing matter." Zazu said, stressing the end of the sentence. Then he stepped back and let Sarabi take center. "Everyone, I have no simple way of starting this, I just don't know where to begin." She straightened her self and arched her back, standing tall. "A human is coming." The whole crowd instantly started talking amongst themselves. Then a voice spoke out. "You can't be serious. A human in the Pridelands!? He must be dealt with!" It was a lioness, and the mother of Tinbo. Sarabi quieted the crowd down with the help of Zazu before answering. "He is being dealt with." she paused. "Nut not the way that you mean." Everyone looked puzzled. "He is coming to stay with us!" The crowd went in a uproar! "You can't be serious!?!" "A human here?!?" "Its insane!!!" Then someone else spoke up. "AHEM!!! AHEM!!!! LET SARABI FINISH!" Zazu was attempting to calm everyone down. This time, as Zazu was surprised to see, it worked. "Thank you." Sarabi looked surprised at Zazu. She knew how he felt about the boy. Zazu then nodded at her motioning her to speak again. She smiled back and continued. "As I was saying the human is a man cub. Not only that, it has been ordered by Mufasa that the boy is NOT to be harmed by any animal on the Pridelands." "Why?" Kisha asked politely, "Why mis this HUMAN allowed here??" She said, and when she said human, it was a tone of disgust. "Because he saved Simba and Nala's lives!" This time the crowd didn't get loud, but whispers could be heard. "HOW? How did a human save the cubs lives?" one of the lions said. Sarabi took a deep breath. "The cubs went far from Pride Rock and fell into the hands of hyenas. The boy gave the children time enough to escape at the risk of his own life. For this, Mufasa has taken the boy into his care and promised him saftey." No one spoke for a moment. The cubs were ever motionless. Nosni then shouted out. "Its true! I was there! He saved my life too. He's not mean! He's nice!" One of lionesses answered back, "How do you know that? He still could be evil." Nosni took flight off his rock and flew to the lion, and hovered only feet from his face. "Because I know, that's how!" The lioness growled and Nosni darted away, into the air, then after a moment landed back on his rock. "We all know of the trouble humans can cause. They are a danger. How can we feel safe with a human here." another lion asked. "He's only a cub!" Simba spoke out. "How much trouble can a cub cause?" Simba grew quiet again, as eyes peared on him. He slouched back down. "Sarabi," Kisha said, "if this human saved my Nala, then I have no right to turn him away. If you think this human is no danger, then I will accept him here as if he was one of our own." Sarabi smiled. Perhaps this wouldn't be so hard after all. Now she only had to convince the rest of the animals of the Pridelands. The pride started to converse amongst themselves again and the cubs could hear the disagreements this was causing. Then as the crowd started getting loud, Zazu lifted off and started to hover as he loudly spoke out. "Here comes the king!" Then his voiced went calm. "Please...show some respect." <<<<>>>> The pride became silent as the king approached them. He became visible as he headed toward them down the path. Though they would normally be respectful and be in awe, this time it was different. There was a strange feeling among the pride. And this feeling became almost enough to see as the reason for it appeared to them. Chad was walking to the right of the king, limping slightly. He was silent and afraid. Afraid of the many lions and lionesses that were visible, staring at him, looking him over. But he made sure to keep that fear to himself. As straightened his back as he walks. Each of the members of the pride bowed their heads to Mufasa, each carefully. And Mufasa made sure to bow back. He did not want to seem rude, especially now that he needed to make sure all the lions were to be in his favor. He was taking a large risk bringing the human back. The only ones not to bow were Simba and Nala. They gleemed a smile at the human and this brought a smile to Chad's face to see not everyone wanted him gone. Mufasa jutted his head, giving the boy the hint to enter the cave. And Chad got the hint. He followed Sarabi into the cave, but made sure to give a look over his shoulder. The pride was still centering their attention on him. Then as the boy disappeared into the cave Mufasa gathered himself together and took a stance of confidence and leadership. He gave a nod to Zazu and Zazu nodded back, knowing what to do. "Attention!" Zazu said, causing the lions to break their stare at the cave entrance and focus it on Zazu. "The king would like to speak." Then eyes turned to Mufasa. "I know you all must be very confused and distraught. I know how most feel about humans and the danger they can present. You all must be wondering why I would bring a human to Pride Rock to stay with us." No one spoke but Mufasa saw easily that he was right. "This boy is no threat to us. He has already proven that to me." Mufasa voice became softer and gentler. "He saved my son. For that, I am thankful...and owe him more than I have to give." Then he became more commanding again. "The boy will stay here with us at Pride Rock. He is under mine and now your protection. He will be nursed back to health by us as well. "No harm is to come of this boy, as though he was one of us. Spread the word to all the creatures on the savannahh of this. Those who disobey will be dealt with by myself...harshly. "When he is healthy again, he may either go on his way or stay if he wishes and will become a productive member of the circle of life." Mufasa concluded his order, making it as clear as possible. Then from above Mufasa a raspy voice was heard. "How, pray tell, Mufasa are we going to communicate with the human. Everyone knows that humans don't understand the other creatures." It was Scar...as disobedient as always. he had arrived late. Mufasa was surprised he arrived at all. "Well, brother, this is no ordinary human boy. I have spoken with him...and he has spoken back. He is special...different from other humans. He can talk with us and understand us." Scar's eyes widened, "And THIS is how you guesses the boy was no danger? Because he can talk with us! It only makes him more dangerous, being able to know our plans and plan accordingly. He must be disposed of immediately!" "NO!" Mufasa's voice flared up, almost to a roar. "He is NOT like other humans. I will vouch for him. He has proved himself worthy of my trust and earned it. And that is enough for me. He will be allowed to stay." Scar's voice slowed down as he spoke. "Well, big brother, do you plan to take full responsibility for the boy then...since you trust him, even though you don't know him." Mufasa thought for a minute, wondering what Scar was thinking. Then he answered, "Yes, Scar, I do. He saved Simba's life at the risk of his own. I will vouch on his behalf." Scar then looked astonished, "Well then, in that case you must be right." Scar smiled, "If you trust him then that is all I needed to hear, your majesty." Scar then walked down from his prch abovce Mufasa to join the other lions. Mufasa waited for Scar to join the others before continuing. "I know you all do not fully trust the boy, but treat him as though you'd treat Simba, Nala, or another one of the cubs. He is young and an innocent. Untainted by human standards." Mufasa almost turned around but then hesitated and said, "I'm sure you will gradually trust him as well." Then Mufasa entered the cave, followed by Simba and Nala. Itashi and Tinbo turned to their parents, giving them a pleading look both. Tinbo's mother softly nodded giving him the approval to go with the other cubs to visit the human. On the other hand, Itashi's mother gave a harsh nod and pushed him in the opposite direction of the cubs. Itashi looked back and saw the other cubs look back also with sorrow. Itashi then bowed his head and walked away. <<<<>>>> With a groan, Chad sat down to where Sarabi had directed him to. Sarabi was looked on, hoping that the boy wasn't badly hurt. She had led Chad to a neat, dry section of the darken cave while Mufasa was outside telling the pride the reasons for this boy's presence. As Chad took a glimpse around the cave, his eyes had adjusted to the dim cave, and saw that it was fairly large and smooth. It was more dry than he'd image a cave to be, nor was it muggy. But an odor hung in the air, the smell of fur and food that had been brought in here. "Are you all right? How's your cuts?" Sarabi asked looking at his wounds which were mostly bruises and cuts. She did notice however than on his leg was a red gash, that had already begun to scab over in most places. But traces of dried blood that had dripped down his leg were still there.It looked as though one of the hyenas had gotten ahold of his leg with their jaw there. Strange how there was little fur on his legs, Sarabi thought to herself. But she also thought that this boy did not look the danger she had once thought humans to be. "They're fine. Thanks...for taking care of me." Chad said, then he continued with an uncertain tone. "You're not gonna have me for dinner or somethin', are ya?" Sarabi chuckled lightly. "Of course not." That made Chad feel more at ease knowing that. He wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Don't worry, Chad, you're safe here. I owe you a great deal...you saved my son." Then the relaxed atmosphere changed when a uproar was heard from outside. Chad noticed Sarabi's facial expression changed. It had a look of unrest. "Sarabi...what about the other lions?" Chad asked. "I don't think they care to much for me." Sarabi looked at the boy, trying to think of a good reason that wouldn't trouble him too much. "Don't worry. Mufasa will take care of everything. You just relax now. I'll be right back." Chad nodded and leaned back against the stone wall. He jumped a little when he felt the coldness against his back. Then he settled slower this time, against the wall. He thought how much Sarabi reminded him of his mom. She seemed gentkle and caring. She seemed actually concerned for his well-being. But of course, the other lions probably wouldn't take him in with such love. He knew there would be a very tense air around the other. And this time, it wasn't the farm animals back in the village. These were a completey different type of animal. These animals were not used to humans. The complete opposite in fact, this time, he was the stranger, the minority, and very much unwanted. This thought crossed his mind right before he dozed off. He had not been asleep 5 minutes when he heard voices talking. He couldn't make out what they were saying but he knew it was Mufasa and Sarabi. As he opened his eyes he saw them on the other side of the cave talking. And sitting on their haunches, looking up to them were three cubs. He recognized two, the ones he had saved, and knew one was Mufasa's son. But he didn't know their names because he had either forgot or wasn't told. The one who was the king's son glanced over and noticed he was awake. A smile came to his face. The cub quickly got up and trotted toward him. Then the other two cubs noticed and followed. Sarabi saw them walk start heading towards them and said to Mufasa, "It looks as though our guest is awake!" Mufasa looked over and saw the cubs and the boy and smiled. Simba then ran up to the boy and smiled. "Hi there! My name's Simba!" Nala blurted out,"And I'm Nala!" Tinbo, who was of Chad's left side, opposite the other two cubs, also chimed in, "And I'm Tinbo!" Chad smiled and knowing only one way to answer this greeting,"Hi there...my name's Chad." Tinbo gaped at the human after hearing him answer. Simba looked to Tinbo, "I TOLD ya he could talk!" Simba looked back at Chad. "I've never been this close to a human." Chad answered,"Well, I've never been this close to a cub, so I guess we're even." Nala and Tinbo giggled and Simba smiled, then looked at him and touched his bare legs. "Why don't ya have any fur? You must get cold at night." "Well, I was born this way and all humans have this much hai-, I mean fur. Sometimes less." the cubs looked astonished. Then Nala spoke out. "Mufasa said you pride died? That's so sad." Nala and all the cubs looked at Chad,their faces long. He could feel the sadness grow everytime he thought about the fire. He usually did a good job at avoiding the thoughts, especially when no one asks him. But once again, he felt the sadness grow like a sponge soaking up water and growing heavy. "Yes...I am..." <<<<>>>> I'll write the next part as soon as possible.