Note: I have used some other characters from other fic's Zidla, Orkam, Eliche, Orog, Umuntu, Imbali, Namandla, Botse (puh) Are (c) Eben Prenzler The rest is (c) me (Sigurd Engerström) do not distribute without my permission, if you have any comments, they are welcome, S_the_spikeshark@hotmail.com Story: This story takes place directly after TLK6 "The Human Encounter" Eben Prenzler The Cast Djakkar- Only survivor from the L.a.b complex later to be Mirthza [dia-kkar] Zidla- member of Orkams pride N'rilta- sister to Mirthza, Daughter to Azouka Ajira- member of Orkams pride M'boku- sister to Mirthza, daughter to Azouka Orkam- ruler of the pride lands Eliche- queen of the pride lands, mate to Orkam Azouka- member of Marhizas pride, (black lioness) [az-ou-ka] Muridja- member of Marhizas pride [mur-idja] Marhiza- the queen of death, and ruler of the "death pride" Niowmi- daughter to Marhiza [ni-owe-me] Mirthza- son to Azouka [mi-rtcha] Mazih'fu (Mazzie)- daughter to Marhiza Kif'djo (Kifo)- son to Marhiza [kiy-dio] Cheika- member of Orkams pride [she-hi-ka] Keiva- daughter to Marhiza Zinagi- shaman lioness living in the ruins of Mombassa Azara- son to Marhiza Kahzila- member of Marhizas pride [ka-si-la] Kreig'tifo- survivor from another pride [krejg-tifo] Yrezkfo- survivor from another pride Khint'jo- survivor from another pride Shaia- Leopard of the Iron pride Novu- an ocelot in the Jaw lands. Mairj- an ocelot in the Jaw lands N'kivo- King over the ocelots in the Jaw lands Dan- Blue human soldier (daan on lion tongue) Will- Blue human soldier Nadar- Green human soldier (VERY small role) Jim- Blue human soldier (chiim on lion tongue) All colours on the human armies stands for what side they are on Blue = A organization of lands "The Atlantic Allies" or CNDB (Canada, Norway, Denmark, Brazil) Green = origin unknown, a bunch of terrorists Red = All of the troublemakers on earth together (Iraq, Pakistan, Rusasia etc.) There are also phrases in human tongue that lions say that may seem strange but the lions are not used to talk that language, like you=jo I=aij "chapters" the survivor next day the announcement at the pride rock the confrontation the blast point the stars/a sad reminder the death/the rebirth in the clouds (short story) the conversion the rescue the Iron pride the Iron cliff The Tale of Djakkar. V 2.3 The survivor In the ruins of the L.a.b complex a shadow emerged, a human form appears. The only thing he can remember is the lion attack and his name, Djakkar. He is still a bit groggy because he was stunned by an extra strong tranquillizer and taken for dead by the lions. Then he saw the burning remains of the complex and his best friends dead body. Swearing that he would kill the one who killed him. In a corner that was not entirely destroyed he found a brain-amplifier, having no other choice he took the syringe and mumbled - I've gotta be smarter to get out of this blasted lands, I'm sure that lion could understand what they were saying then I may be able to understand them. He pressed the syringe into his arm, and the drug was released in his body, he screamed in pain then he collapsed in pain. His scream was heard all over the land. [fade out] A couple of miles away the attacking pride was on their way home when one of them suddenly stopped Lioness- d...did you hear that, Zidla? Zidla- hear what, Ajira? Ajira- a scream. Zidla- what? Best to inform Orkam and Eliche. Zidla ran to the lions in the front. Zidla- Orkam! Ajira said that she heard a scream. Orkam- what? Zidla- a scream. Eliche- from where? Zidla- from the human den. Orkam- send someone to investigate Zidla- I'll go Eliche- take Ajira with you, we'll wait here for your return Zidla- yes your highness. Zidla went back to Ajira tapping her shoulder Zidla- come we shall investigate the scream. Ajira- OK, let's go. The two lionesses went to the ruins. Zidla- I can't see anything aliv... She stopped when a big sigh was let out of a body some metres away. Ajira- it must be him. Djakkar woke up to see Zidlas face above his. Zidla- well the sleeping ugly woke up Ajira- shall we kill him? At the word kill Djakkar shakes his head. Zidla- I don't think that, it seems as he can understand us, [turning to Djakkar] can you? Djakkar nodded his head Ajira- great we can ask him how he will get killed Zidla- don't upset him... we can find out if there is more left [turning to Djakkar] is there? Djakkar- [in lion tongue] no I'm the only one left. Ajira- [surprised] he... speaks our language. Djakkar- is it anything wrong with that?? Zidla- no but, we were instructed to kill any survivors Djakkar- no way... Zidla hit his cheek with her paw leaving five bleeding wounds Djakkar- [shouting] what was that for??? Zidla-Shut up, Ajira go get the rest of the pride Ajira- on my way! Ajira ran of in the direction of her pride Zidla- [to Djakkar] now you just sit tight and I wont hurt you. by the way what is your name?? Djakkar- my name?? That's Djakkar Zidla- Alright Djakkar, I'm Zidla [fade out] Lioness- look Ajira is returning Orkam- fine Ajira walks towards Orkam and bow in front of him Orkam- rise Ajira, so what news? Ajira- well we found one survivor... Orkam- did you kill him? Ajira- no Eliche- WHY NOT?? Ajira- he could understand what we were saying and even speak our language. Orkam- that's strange Ajira- we decided that you would judge him. Orkam- ok! Listen up, we are going back to the human den! The lionesses mumbled a bit but did follow their king. Meanwhile Djakkar and Zidla were talking about almost anything when the pride arrived Orkam- Zidla, where is that human? Djakkar- I'm here and my name is "not human" Orkam and his pride were surprised Orkam- it's true Djakkar- what's true? Lioness-shut up, he was not talkin' to you Djakkar mumbled something unhearable. Orkam- you... human... is to stand trial for your crimes. Djakkar- what crimes?? Orkam- for drawing royal blood. Djakkar- I haven't killed anybody. Orkam- do you really expect me to believe that? Djakkar- as a matter of fact...yes because I had not even seen a lion before you attacked and killed my friend Lioness- oh, pity you. Djakkar turns his head to the lioness Djakkar- you wouldn't be so happy if someone slaughtered your best friend in front of your eyes. Orkam- enough! If you humans didn't kill a royal lion you would not all be dead. Djakkar- this is ridiculous, slaughter 10 for one dead. Eliche- shut up, human Djakkar pulled a wry face at her, she prepared to attack him bit Zidla stopped her. Eliche- Zidla, get out of the way! Zidla- no, he haven't stood trial yet. Eliche- forget the trial, all humans must die for their crimes. Djakkar- what a bloodbath, a massacre of six billion people, that's gonna take a long time Zidla- Shut up [turning to Eliche] I've spoken to him and I found out that he no way possible could commit that crime. Eliche- why not? Zidla- he arrived one day before the attack, he was locked in a cage. A black lioness emerged from the shadows Black Lioness- that's true he sat in the cage next to mine. Orkam- who are you?? B. Lioness- Oh! I'm Azouka. Orkam- do you know why he was locked in there?? Azouka- why don't ya ask him? Djakkar- because I was a captured blue soldier, they wanted to run some tests on me and then be used as lion food. Eliche- that reminds me that I'm hungry. Orkam- go for a hunt then. Eliche- all right, Zidla, Cheika, come with me. The three lionesses disappeared Djakkar- [to himself] I don't think she likes me at all. As the sun went down, the stars appeared Orkam- oh it's getting late [turns to his pride] we'll have to sleep here tonight. Eliche and the others returned with an antelope, the pride begins to eat, Azouka and Djakkar sit and watches the meal, Zidla notices that and throws a piece of meat to them. After the meal the pride went to sleep, except those who where guarding. Next day The black lioness Azouka was gone, but Djakkar was still there, still asleep. Orkam- didn't I tell you to guard them?? Guard- but she was black , almost impossible to see. Orkam- forget it, we'll continue the trial today, Zidla wake that human Djakkar was brutally awoken by Zidla. Zidla- wake up. Djakkar- [a bit too tired] Go away mother. Zidla- hey you're not home, wake up! Djakkar- what? Zidla- your trial continues today Djakkar- what trial Zidla- [now a bit angry] whatever you are guilty or not! Djakkar-Oh! Zidla led him to the in front of Orkam Orkam- since I can't find you guilty to the crime I will exile you Djakkar- who hung the defender. Orkam- Go! Now or we will have you for breakfast Djakkar- Tjakkada! ( =means something like goodbye idiot) Djakkar walked away Orkam- [to his wife] take your best hunters and get after him as soon as he reach that hill over there. Eliche- but of course my love. When Djakkar got out of sight, Eliche and her best hunters came after him. Unaware of danger he walked to a waterhole Djakkar- [thinking] it wouldn't surprise me if they sent someone after me. But if they do I'm prepared. He held two tranquillizers in his hand, he turned around and saw Eliche charging him. Djakkar- I knew it At the same time Eliche jumped on him he injected a tranquillizer into her, she was stunned immediately and the two other lionesses attacked him, to dodge them he jumped into the water hole and swam to the other side. Lioness- Damn it! He got away. Cheika- don't bother, help me get Eliche back Lioness- Orkam are not going to be pleased Cheika- you're right When Djakkar came up on the other shore he saw another pride, a big red lioness with crimson eyes and a black serpentine running from her nose to her neck and continuing on her fore legs, slowly walked forward Lioness- so, human, what have you done to be chased by the queen of the pride lands? Djakkar- who are you to know? The lioness swinged her paw against him, but he dodged the swing. Lioness- I'm Marhiza, the queen of death. Djakkar- oh great, why does every one seek to kill me anyway? Marhiza- because you are legal prey. Djakkar how did you know so fast? Azouka stepped forward Azouka- through me. Marhiza- now, not all of us seek to kill you, I'll even give you a chance. We'll give you five minutes head start, then the hunt begins, go before I change my mind. Djakkar ran of in the east. Having only his bare hands left to defend himself with, he kept running not knowing he was running towards the Pride rock, Marhizas pride had nearly catched him up when they ran into Orkams pride. Djakkar- oh shit. He knew he was stuck between Orkam and Marhiza and a streamy river Orkam- [to Marhiza] what are you think you're doing? Marhiza- chasing that human! Orkam- he is our prey Marhiza- so, really? She jumped on Djakkar and imbedded her claws in his neck, the only thing he could do was punching her on her muzzle, the strike was so surprising that Marhiza let lose of her grip and fell backwards. Djakkar- [taunting] anyone else want some? Marhiza- [to a lioness] Mazzie... KILL HIM! Mazzie- with pleasure, mother Mazzie attacked him with such power that they both fell into the river and was carried away by the stream. Marhiza ran to the riverbed searching for her daughter. Marhiza- it cant be... NO! She sat and looked into the river, she couldn't believe that her daughter was gone, she slowly turned around and walked slowly to her pride, even thoe Orkams pride was bigger than hers she yelled Marhiza- IT'S YOUR FAULT, ATTACK The two unfair matched prides collided and after some minutes there were only a few of Marhizas pride left including herself, they retreated back to their den. Meantime down the river Djakkar and Mazzie struggled for their lives in the streamy water even if Mazzie surely would kill him; he pulled her out of the water up on the riverbed. Mazzie- why did you save me? Djakkar- I don't know. Mazzie- I can't kill you now. Djakkar-Why not? Mazzie- don't play stupid. I owe you my life for this, damn you. ....... my mother is not going to be pleased ... she ordered me to kill you... so why did you save my human? Djakkar- it just felt to be the right thing to do, besides my name is Not "human" it's Djakkar. Mazzie- sorry, Djakkar but what have you done to be so hated? Djakkar- being alive must be the reason Djakkar looked at his bleeding hands. Djakkar- there is blood all over my hands Mazzie- and all over my forepaw... are you thinking the same thing? Djakkar- I think so... Mazzie- then give me your right hand Their blood where mixed they where now blood siblings Meanwhile in an green military encampment a few kilometres away, the soldiers where prepared for the coming onslaught, the commander spoke to his men Commander- Listen up boys! This is not a practice, it's real. The blues are moving closer and closer to our position. If we are defeated this could be the beginning of the end. If we win we have accomplished to destroy the enemy's largest army. So do your best men, Is that Clear? Soldiers- YES SIR! At the same time in an blue encampment nearby some tank-drivers talked about their family and what they would do after the war was over, one of them got bored of the monotonous conversation. Soldier- I've heard of an enemy research facility in Sector F6b that was destroyed by lions. Soldier2- ya gotta be jokin' Will... lions? Will- no, I'm telling the truth, it's rumoured that they made experiments on lions there but something went wrong... Soldier2- it sounds like a horror movie... the revenge of the lab lion All of the soldiers laughed Will- ah, shut up you laughasses, it's also rumoured that a captured commando named Djakkar was in that complex, Dan. Dan- one of ours? Did he escape? Will- I'm not sure but... The alarm sounded and all of the soldiers got to their positions, waiting for the first shot to be fired. Back to Djakkar and Mazzie at the same time as a Hind squad flew over them. Djakkar- [terrified voice] Down! They both got in shelter under a tree Mazzie- who... What was that? Djakkar- that was Hind choppers Mazzie- I haven't seen or heard anything like it before... what are they? Djakkar- they are only machines... Mazzie- what is a "machine"? Djakkar- well it's hard to explain, but they are non-living things built by humans. Mazzie- I see... another thing... how did you survive the attack on that ehm... thing? And how did you get there? Djakkar- that's a long story Mazzie- then get on with it. Djakkar- Ok, if you didn't know it, humans are rather violent by nature, and we have often wars between different nations and groups. Mazzie- [interrupting] what is a nation? Djakkar- it's like a pride but much larger both in population and land. And the wars we have don't end after one battle it usually goes on for years. Mazzie- shouldn't those who started the war die of age or in battle after some years? Djakkar- no [laughing] Mazzie- what's so funny? Djakkar- don't you know how old humans can be? Mazzie- no but I guess... ten years Djakkar- humans use to get up to seventy years old. And our leaders usually stay out of battle. Mazzie- cowards. But that don't explain how you got there. Djakkar- well I was a commando and my mission was to infiltrate the complex witch I failed Mazzie- how did you survive? Djakkar- I really don't know it my self but I think I was made unconscious, and taken for dead. Just as he finished the word the battle began and loud explosions were heard. Mazzie was nearly scared to death by the sudden notices, Djakkar was used to this and didn't take it so hard Mazzie- what was that then??? Djakkar- it seems to be a battle between humans, it will be over in a matter of hours. Time passed and as Djakkar said the battle stopped a few hours later. Djakkar- now does the silence of death come. Mazzie- you don't have to explain that, but I'm a bit curios. Djakkar- shall we have a look on the field? Mazzie- why not? They went to the battlefield and saw the scorched ground, the destroyed tanks and all of the dead soldiers, Mazzie- this is horrible, so much death how can humans be so cruel? Djakkar- that's just the way of humans, war. He said these words while picking a Kalachnikow from a dead soldier, he looked at it for a second then he suddenly dropped it and held his arms up in the air. Mazzie- [very confused] what are you doing? Djakkar- look behind you. A tank was pointing its turret gun towards them and a voice came up from it. Voice- Friend or foe? Djakkar- blue Voice- you're lucky, I'm blue too Djakkar put his hands down and told Mazzie that there no longer was a threat. A man came up from the turret Man- hey? Are you talkin' to that lioness? Djakkar- as a matter of fact... yes Man- anyway I'm Nadar. Djakkar- I'm Djakkar. Nadar- [shouting] DJAKKAR!! DIE!! He pulled his gun but before he could fire a shot his throat were ripped out by Mazzie. Mazzie- Yuck! Human flesh tastes like shit! Djakkar- sorry! But you saved me. Mazzie- now we are even, but you're still my blood brother. Djakkar- now it's 1-0 to you. Mazzie- what do you mean? Djakkar- one kill to you, let's go even things up. Mazzie- just try. They went away to find another victim, they found a half-dead green soldier, Djakkar ended his pain with his knife. [fade out] The announcement The remains of Marhizas pride licked their wounds Marhiza sat in a corner. Marhiza- [sad] I can't believe it. Azouka- [comforting her] that's just the way of the circle. Marhiza- I know, but I have a surprise for ya. Azouka- what? Tell me! Marhiza- then get the rest of the pride. Azouka- right away. She assembled the few lionesses left and brought them to Marhiza. Random L.- what's up? Marhiza- I have an announcement to do Random L.- what is it? Marhiza- I'm bearing cubs again. All of the pride cheered. At the pride rock Orkam was at the waterhole to have a drink, Eliche came from behind Orkam- [to Eliche] where did that pride come from? Eliche- I don't know but I think that they were the death pride from the far northwest anyway they were nearly wiped out Orkam- I still don't get why anyone would do such a foolish thing. Eliche- that's obvious. Orkam- it is? Eliche- yes, didn't you see her reaction when the lioness called Mazzie fell into the river, I think it was her daughter. Zidla slowly came to them at the waterhole Zidla- I know where they live Orkam- you know? Zidla- yes they live in the far northwest, it was the legendary "death pride" led by the queen of death, Marhiza. And as soon as she got her pride in order again she will come for revenge. Orkam- thank you, Zidla, dismiss Zidla went to the other lionesses in the shadow of a tree Eliche- [to Orkam] another thing is bothering me Orkam- what could that be? Eliche-I just have the feeling that the human is still alive, they can be rather unpredictable. Orkam- I've noticed that, But no one could possibly survived that stream. Eliche- you've probably right. Cheika suddenly came to them. Cheika- Eliche, your spy have returned Eliche- fine ,bring her to me. The spy came forward. Eliche- [to spy] what news from the N.W? Spy- I saw the most awful thing in my life, hundreds and hundreds of slaughtered humans Eliche- isn't that good news? Spy- may be, but those humans fight without mercy, I saw the battle. Eliche-well it is awful anyway, do you have any more news? Spy- as you may be know, the "death pride" were nearly wiped out, but their leader are bearing cubs. Eliche- that's not good. Spy- and a last thing. Eliche- go on. Spy- I heard rumours about a human and a lioness, that together hunted anything that moved. Just for fun. Eliche- it can't be [shouting to her mate] Orkam. Orkam- you shouted, my dear? Eliche- the human is still alive. Orkam-where is he? Spy- in the far northwest. Orkam- then he isn't a major threat. Eliche- and the "death pride's" leader are expecting. Orkam that's not good at all. Spy- may I go to the waterhole? I've been running all the day. Eliche- you're permitted. Spy- thanks. Orkam- that confirmed your suspicion. Eliche- yes, and he seemed to have joined a lioness, and they are hunting all living creatures just for fun, including humans. Orkam- they and the "death pride" are the biggest treats. [fade out] Three month later Marhiza gave birth to four cubs, two male and two female. They were pronounced to be her heir. Lioness- Congratulations, my queen, what are they to be known as? Marhiza- don't call me "queen", Muridja, the cubs are to be known as [pointing on a dark male], he as Kif'djo, [pointing at a black female] she as Keiva, [pointing at an entirely black male with a red tail tip] he as Azara [pointing at the last cub] and she as Niowmi. Muridja- Great names, I got some news for ya'. Marhiza- let me hear them. Muridja- Three lionesses requested to join our pride. Marhiza- bring them in The lionesses were brought before her. Marhiza- [to lionesses] so... why do you want to join us? Lioness- because our own pride was slaughtered in a battle between humans, we hadn't a chance to escape, we were caught in the middle, they were dying like flies [the lioness starts to cry] Lioness2- we were able to hide in a cave, but the others didn't make it there, those bloody humans shot them. Marhiza- now when you don't have a home anymore, you can stay with us... Lioness1- [stopped crying] thanks so much Marhiza- what are your names? Lioness1- I'm Kreig'tifo Lioness2- I'm Yrezkfo Lioness3- And I am Khint'jo Marhiza- and I'm Marhiza the queen of death, and if you dare to cross me, then I will show you why I got that nickname Khint'jo- we will not cross you. Marhiza- [to Muridja] Send some hunters out, I'm starving and I'm sure that our guests are hungry too Muridja- it's done. The Confrontation Djakkar was competing with Mazzie who could kill most prey in a week, but it ended in a draw Djakkar- I've got ten kills. Mazzie- Damn it! A draw, I've got ten too... hey what's that... Yes it is !... Azouka! Azouka- you two? Here? Alive? Your mother will be happy to see you again... come Mazzie- what about him? Azouka- what possible reason have even kept him alive... kill him. Mazzie- No! He saved my life... And he is my blood brother. Azouka- Well... that's different... Take him with you, come. Mazzie- [to Djakkar] Come on then, mother aint gonna kill you. Djakkar- I hope so. The trio ran back to Marhizas den. Azouka went in first, the two others waited outside. Azouka- sister, wake up! I got a surprise for you. Marhiza- [half asleep] What?? If you aren't pregnant it is not a surprise. Azouka- [laughing] no it's not that, close your eyes and I will bring the surprise to you. Marhiza close her eyes and Azouka made a signal for Mazzie to enter, Mazzie stood in front of her. Azouka- you may open your eyes. Marhiza- Mazzie! You're alive! She hugged her daughter Mazzie- Mother... there is something else... Do you remember the human? Marhiza- yes I do, and if I ever meet him again I'm gonna rip his heart out. Mazzie- I don't think so. Marhiza- WHAT? Mazzie- he saved my life on the river. Marhiza- then his heart is saved. Mazzie- there is one more thing you should know... he is my blood brother. Marhiza- [nearly got an heart attack] ARE YOU INSANE??? Mazzie- not more than I got from you, shall I lead him in? Marhiza- [growling] IS HE HERE?? Mazzie- yes he is. Marhiza- [sadism in voice] then lead him in Mazzie- [loud out of the den] Djakkar you can enter now. Djakkar entered the den, surprisingly Marhiza greet him. Marhiza- you shall have thanks for saving my daughter. Djakkar- well that's nothing. Marhiza- no that is much, for saving my daughter you are now a friend of my pride Djakkar- geez... thanks Marhiza- you must be thirsty, Azouka, take him to the waterhole, I want to talk with my daughter. Djakkar was led to the waterhole by some lionesses, they talked with each other Lioness- that's not like her. Lioness2- no, she should usually have ripped his heart out and have it for lunch. Lioness- may be she finally woke up on the right side... In the den, Mazzie told her mother of all that had happened the past weeks. Marhiza- hunting for fun??? Well who won? Mazzie- it ended in a draw, 10-10. Marhiza- then he must be a good hunter. Mazzie- or me being lousy. Marhiza- No bullshit. Oh I nearly forgot... Kifo, Kev, Azy, Niow come meet your sister. Mazzie- What? Do I have siblings? Marhiza- Cubs, go and say hello. Kifo- aw mom, do I have to? Mazzie- but of course, who are you little fella'? Kifo- I'm Kif'djo Keiva- oh your more beautiful than mom told me. Mazzie- ahum? Keiva- oh! I'm Keiva. Mazzie- what is this black little "fuzz ball" called? Azy- hey my name is not "fuzz ball" it's Azara [he whipped his tail] Mazzie- sorry Azara, now the last one [sticking her head down to Niow] The result was that Niow planted her razor sharp claws in Mazzies muzzle Mazzie- [surprised] ouch! That hurt! You're a lively one, huh? Niow- sorry sister, I'm Niowmi. At the water hole, the lionesses were busy drinking, Djakkar too, when a strange light lit up the sky, all looked up and saw a mushroom shaped cloud in the horizon. Lioness- what was that? Djakkar- you'd better lay down and cover your ears... It's coming this way. In a matter of seconds, a shockwave rushed over their heads, as soon as it had passed by the lionesses rised and saw the destruction in its path. Lioness- what happened, human? Djakkar- [with fear] that was an atomic blast, or a nuke, the strongest weapon ever made by humans. Lioness- Look at all this destruction, every three is gone. There was not a single tree left standing. Lioness- oh oh! Marhiza! She ran into the den Lioness- [taking deep breaths] my queen... Are you all right? Marhiza- Yes I am, do you know what that was? Lioness- The human called it an atomic blast, Marhiza- well... send him to investigate. Lioness- right away. She went back to the water hole, and picked two lionesses. Lioness- Azouka, Muridja, follow me... you to human. Djakkar- I'm coming. Lioness- we are to investigate this "atomic blast" Muridja- fine with me. Azouka- me to. Djakkar- I don't have much of a choice, do I? Lioness- Ok, let's go! They spent the rest of the day travelling to the blast point. The blast point The little recon group sat in the shadow of a cliff waiting for Azouka to come with prey. Muridja- Hey, human, how long is it left? Djakkar- Hey, self, my name is Djakkar. Muridja- sorry, but how long is it left? Djakkar- I'm not sure, but I think at least one day more. Azouka approached Azouka- You, Djakk, we found something in the grass, Lioness- May be you can identify it? Djakkar- may I see that thing? Azouka- here it is. [Handing over a sniper] Djakkar- well... this is a sniper gun, a weapon. Muridja- how does it work? Djakkar- do you see that gazelle over there? Lioness- yes we do!? Djakkar- then watch this! He pulled the trigger and a "ptju" later the gazelle fell to the ground. Djakkar- now go and see the result! They went to the dead gazelle Muridja- it's stone dead! Djakkar- that's is the might of the sniper Azouka- well... I'm hungry, let's eat. They feasted on the gazelle and went on, Next day they reached the blast area, a human city, some few walls where still standing all the grass was burnt and on the few walls there where "white shadows" Djakkar- I feared this. Azouka- there is even more destruction than home... A sudden raspy human voice came out of a radio nearby. Radio- All who hears this message is the only survivors of the human race, all cities and towns have been destroyed by an shockwave running across the surface, killing all humans in it's path... [the radio went silent] Djakkar- no... it can't be... [shouting] NO!!! Lioness- what is all this yelling for? And what did that... thing say? Djakkar- [calmed down a bit] it said that the most of the human race has been annihilated, there is only a few of us left. Lioness- what can have caused this massacre? Djakkar- I...I don't know. [he started to cry] Azouka- what are you thinking about? Djakkar- my family... they must all be dead now... all I ever known and loved... Destroyed! Then he burst out in tears again Azouka tried to comfort him. Azouka- well. I stay here, you two go search for survivors. The two lionesses went into the ruins. Azouka- [sat down next to Djakkar] it isn't your fault, that they are dead, but who could possibly do such an awful thing? Djakkar- that's rather obvious... a madman. Azouka tried her best to comfort him. After at least ten minutes Muridja returned. Muridja- I have good news. Azouka- Let us hear then. Muridja- we found some humans, we forced them into some sort of den, and Kahzila is guarding them. Azouka- that's good news indeed [to Djakkar] dry your tears, Djakk, let's go have a look. In the bunker guarded by Kahzila. Man- is it gone? Man2- no, Jim, she is still there, but where did the other one go? Jim- I hope she will go away, so we can get out of here, we can't fight her, we have no weapons. Man- Well I might get trough when she is turning her back to the entrance. Jim- Good luck, Dan. Just as Dan got out, Kahzila saw him and forced him back into the bunker. Dan- did you see that? She didn't attack me. Jim- it seems that she wants us in here. Dan- this reminds me of Will's tale, poor him. Jim- that about the complex? Dan- Yes that one... hey something is happening... two lionesses... And a ... HUMAN!? Jim- why don't they attack him? Dan- I don't know! Outside the bunker. Djakkar- [to Kahzila] How many are there? Kahzila- At least two... Djakkar- I'll try to talk with them [in human tongue] You. in there, get out! Dan- No way, not as long as those lionesses stands there! Djakkar- they are not gonna hurt you. Dan- I don't believe you. Jim- what colour? Djakkar- Blue! Jim- it's safe; let's get out of here. The men came out in the bright sunshine and were blinded by the sudden light. Djakkar told the lionesses to back of a bit. Dan- Hey, are you talkin' to that lionesses? Djakkar- Yes I know their language. Jim- Cool! Djakkar- Well... what's happened here, it looks worse than Washington DC 2003 Jim- we don't know, but we think that it was a new green weapon. Djakkar- Yeah, it's must have been more powerful than a nuke to cause all this mess. Dan- but without the radiation. Djakkar- I heard on the radio that a shock wave crossed earth's surface and annihilating all humans on the surface. Dan- we heard it to, we were just going to find survivors when those lionesses stopped us and forced us into that bunker. Djakkar- why would anyone do such a thing like this? Dan- I have no idea, but I think the greenies was about to loose the war, blue forces prepared to the final assault on their last fortress, when he released it. Jim- The damn fool, he released it and destroyed mankind, rather than loose the war. Dan- I'm still wondering how you learned their language [looking on the lionesses sitting in a shadow]. Djakkar- I don' know really...[the raspy radio gave a sound] FFZZZ ALL SURVIVORS SSZHR IS TO ASSEMBLE IN FZZZ CAIRO.... [then it got silent again] Djakkar- [continuing] but I think it have to do with the L.A.B complex. Dan- The L.A.B??? then you must be Djakkar, the war hero! Djakkar- that's correct. Dan- well... I'm Daniel. Jim- and I'm Jimmy Azouka walked slowly towards Djakkar and asked him about Jim and Dan. Djakkar- [in lion tongue] well their names are Dan and Jim. Azouka- [tried on human tongue] Daan ant Jiim? Jim- [a bit confused] are you talkin' bout us? Djakkar- Yes... Dan- did she just say our names? Djakkar- She tried... Jim- what's her name then, I hope lions also use names? Djakkar- they sure do, her name is Azouka Jim- can you say it again? Djakkar- Azouka... Jim- Azfouka Djakkar- nearly... try again. Jim- Azouka. Djakkar- that's right Dan went into the bunker and came out a second later Dan- I've got the message Jim- what message? Dan- From other survivors, we are assembling in Cairo, or what's left of it, they sent a Chinook transport to pick us up. Jim- [to Djakkar] Are you coming with us? Djakkar- No, I stay here, Jim- It' your decision. Dan- Come on Jim, we don't have the time to hang around all day, let's go meet that chopper, in central in about 30 minutes. Jim- well... how do I say goodbye? Djakkar- [in lion tongue] Goodbye. Jim- [trying lion tongue] Goodbye Azouka. Azouka- goodbye Jiim. Djakkar- [to Dan and Jim] Well... you know where to find me... Jim- Yeah. See ya. Then they went on to the Central. Djakkar- There is nothing else left here, so let's get home. Two days later, they returned to the Death cliffs den, Mazzie woke up her mother. Mazzie- they are back. Marhiza- [still half asleep] huh? What? Mazzie- our scouts returned. Marhiza- All of them? Mazzie- yes, all of them. Marhiza- lead them in. The recon group entered the den. Marhiza- so, what was it? Kahzila- "It was an Atomic blast" Marhiza- And? Kahzila- and the humans nearly exterminated themselves. Marhiza- How? Kahzila- Ask him. Marhiza- [turning to Djakkar] well? No reaction Marhiza- Hey daydreamer wake up! Djakkar- huh... what? Oh. Marhiza- what did you think about? Djakkar- my family... I don't think they're alive anymore. Marhiza- I'm sorry... back to the question. Djakkar- yeah right. It was the worst weapon ever created, the greenies had developed it, a weapon ten times as powerful as a Nuke, but without the side affects, it did just destroy any human buildings on the surface, and all humans on the surface were just... Annihilated. Lioness- But you were also out in the open when that nok... nik... nuke came, why didn't you be destroyed as well? Djakkar- I don't know... yet. Marhiza- [changing subject] while you were away, we caught a spy from the pride lands, unfortenally she escaped, so now the pride Landers knows a lot of us, but nothing about you Djakk, [loooong pause] the loss of your family must have caused you much pain... So I wish you to join my pride as a friend and ally. Djakkar- well I Accept. Kahzila- Welcome in our pride, Djakk. [fade out] ((in the pride lands the story continues as in TLK7 by Eben Prenzler, so reading it would not be a mistake)) Under the stars Month later, Marhizas cubs where now nearly a half year old, Djakkar and some of the pride sat in a shadow near the waterhole. Azy- I've been wondering something, Djakk. Djakkar- what would that be Azy? Azy- You don't seem to aged at all under my life time, so... how old are you? Djakkar- How old I am? Well I will be 26 this summer. Azy- 26 ??? That's older than anyone in our land, but you don't look old. Djakkar- For humans, 26 is young. Azy- How is old then? Kifo- [answering] 2 Billions of years, Azy. Azy- I wasn't asking you, meathead Kifo- don't you dare to call me meathead, you FUZZ BALL! Azy- MEATHEAD! Kifo- All right, that's set it, you are going to pay for that: They started to fight as cubs use to do, but it ended up in the waterhole. Mazzie- Don't that remind you of something, Djakk? Djakkar- it was the same way I met you. Keiva and Niow sneaked on them. Cubs- can't you tell that story? Please!!! Mazzie- Not again. Cubs- yes again. Mazzie- All right then. She told the story once again. Cubs- so that's how he got into our pride? Mazzie- yes for the 26:th time, that is how he got into our pride, now go and play. Cubs- Okay, sister. They went to their brothers. Mazzie- [to Djakkar] that they still want to hear that old story, over and over again. Djakkar- they are only cubs. Mazzie- Come... I want to show you something. Djakkar- All right. Mazzie- Come on then. Djakkar- I'm coming! They went to the river and sat down on a little hill. Djakkar- what did you want to show? Mazzie- just close your eyes. He close his eyes and Mazzie gave him a kiss Djakkar- [surprised] hey... what are you doing??? Mazzie- All since I met you, I've been growing feelings for you. Djakkar-yeah, me to... [very long pause] If I were a lion I would ask you to marry me. Mazzie- And I would say yes. Djakkar- that wouldn't work. Mazzie- why not??? Djakkar- If I were a lion, I would be dead since long. Mazzie- [laughing] that's true. They stayed at the river until the sun went down and the stars came up. They both lay on their backs and looked up on the stars, Djakkar told Mazzie what all the signs were called by the humans. Mazzie- so that is the belt of Orion? Djakkar- yes it is. Mazzie- we call it the three cubs. Djakkar- there is the scorpion. Mazzie- [exited] Where? Djakkar pointed out the stars that formed the sign. Djakkar- oh, there is the lioness. Mazzie- Really? Where? Djakkar- do you see the stars forming a triangle? Mazzie- yes? Djakkar- them plus a stripe of five stars leading to the east, and the two last stars... [interrupting himself] Mazzie- Where? Where are they? Djakkar- In your eyes. Mazzie- [charmed and embarrassed] So cute of you. She gave him a lick on his cheek. Djakkar suddenly went sad. Djakkar- the stars also remind me of something else... from my childhood... I used to make up signs with my brother he made up a sign I still can remember But I can't see it... [a tear rolls down his cheek] I'm on the wrong side of this bloody planet... Then he started to cry Mazzie- don't cry... I'm here. You must have loved your brother much, now tell me how that sign looked like. Djakkar drew the sign in the dust. Djakkar- it was the same sign my enemies had. Mazzie- what enemies? Djakkar- the greenies. Mazzie- I know that you were coloured "blue", but what does all this colours stand for? Djakkar- The "blue" was an organization called the Atlantic allies or the CNDB. The "green" are still unknown. And the "reds" were all those who caused trouble in the world. Mazzie- you say that the "Greens" were unknown, does that mean that you don't know their origin? Djakkar- No one knows, except that there were a lot of them. Mazzie- [changing subject] my mother likes you; you are not like other humans... A horror approached in the high grass, it crept closer and closer, until it had nearly reached them Mazzie- shh... did you hear that? Suddenly Kifo and Azy jumped out of the grass and scared them. Djakkar- duh! You really scared us. Kifo- [to Azy] what a great plan brother. Azy- I know, I'm a genius. Kifo- hey genius, I made it up. Azy- But I drew it trough. Kifo- With my help. Azy- Oh yeah? I'll give you some serious help. They started to fight. Mazzie- shall we leave those morons here? Azy- I'm not a moron, I'm a genius. Kifo- then eat this genius. They continued their fight, without noticing Mazzie and Djakkar leaving. When they finished their fight... Azy- hey... where did those two turtledoves go? Kifo- they may be went home !? Azy- Let's do the same thing, I'm tired. When they got back to the den, they saw Mazzie and Djakkar lay alongside each other. Azy- there you see, I was right all the time. Kifo didn't listen, he had fallen asleep. Azy- [to his sleeping brother] lazy... Then he fell asleep. Next day, the brothers was up early to spy on their sister, but unfortunaly she was still asleep but Djakkar had gone to the waterhole. Kifo- hey... "Fuzz ball", let's go down to the waterhole. Azy- Yes "meathead" Kifo- ah... shut up! I think Djakk is down there. Azy- let's go and be annoying. Kifo- thinking the same thing. They went to the waterhole and found Djakkar busy repairing his boots. Azy- hey you... turtle dove Kifo- we have seen you and Mazzie. Azy- [to Kifo] I think its love. Djakkar- [ignoring them] so... how is the "fuzz ball" today? Kifo laughed and Azy got quite angry. Azy- stop laughing you "meathead". Kifo- I'm not a meathead They started to fight again, and while they were fighting Djakkar took his boots on and sneaked away. After a while the cubs were exhausted. Azy- he got away again. Kifo- it's your fault "fuzz ball". Azy- If I wasn't so exhausted, then I teach you a lesson. Keiva, Niowmi and some other lionesses came down to the waterhole, Keiva saw her brothers. Keiva- well... well isn't it the "meathead" and the "fuzz ball"? Azy- shut up, Kev! Niow- why can't you two grow up? Azy- we'll show you [making a sign to Kifo] They jumped towards her and pushed her into the cold water. Kifo- that's why "sea lion"! Niow- I'll get you for that, just you wait. Marhiza went down to have a drink and she saw her cubs. Marhiza- All right, what's been happening here? Huh? Azy- eh... nothing. Kifo- Yeah... Niow decided to get a bath that's all. Niow- [quite angry] No I was not "meathead", you pushed me in the water. Kifo- [low] tell tale. Marhiza- QUIET!!! All got silent Marhiza- that's better, have any of you seen Djakk today? Kifo- yes, we saw him a couple of minutes ago. Marhiza- where did he go? Kifo- to the river. Marhiza- Good, now listen up carefully cubs, don't never ever push anyone in the water, Is That Clear? Kifo- like the air. Marhiza- good, now I'm going to be gone for some days, so you just do what your sister tells you. Cubs- OK, mom. Marhiza-fine. Then she went of in the direction of the river, she met Djakkar there. Marhiza- I've noticed that you and Mazzie have feelings for each other, am I correct? Djakkar- Yes, we do. Marhiza- [changing subject] Now, we are going on a dangerous mission. Djakkar- you've mentioned that. Marhiza- Yes, I did, we are going to spy on the pride lands. Djakkar- that's fine with me, as long as Orkam don't see me. Marhiza- He shouldn't. Djakkar- Let's get going. The death/ the penalty They continued to the southeast until they reached the western border of the Pride lands, smelling blood they investigated what some vultures was eating. Marhiza- [shocked] they have been slaughtered. At the same time Orkam arrived to the place, (just as TLK7) he saw the corpses and then Djakkar. Orkam- YOU!!! Djakkar- Oh crap, you found me. Orkam- what have you done??? Marhiza- Nothing, we smelt blood and came to investigate. Orkam- you're lying, Bitch! He attacked her with a great force that knocked her to the ground, unable to move, she saw Orkam attack Djakkar. With nothing else than his fist to defend him with, he was also forced to the ground. Orkam- The penalty for returning, is Death! Djakkar- Go to hell... Then Orkam ripped his troath out, and Djakkar died. Marhiza, who got up on her feet had no other choice than run home, back home she told the terrible news to her pride. Mazzie did not believe her ears, Djakkar was dead, they held a memorial for him. But Azouka was not there. Marhiza- Where is my sister, Azouka? Lioness- She disappeared the day before you returned; she was mumbling something about pregnancy. Marhiza- so she finally found someone... A few days later Azouka returned with a big smile, that smile was turned into miss belief over Djakkars death. Azouka- it can't be so. Marhiza- I'm sorry to tell you, but it is so... [Changing subject] so... did anything happen while you were gone? Azouka- Yes... I'm pregnant. In the clouds In a cloud formation somewhere, a lonesome figure stands. Djakkar- Where am I?? Voice- you are between heaven and hell, it depends on your actions... You are not bad so you are allowed to enter. Djakkar was just to enter when the voice stopped him. Voice- Stop, another thing just came up... you have mixed blood, so you can't enter. Djakkar- does this mean I'm going to hell? Voice- no you will stay here in Nimbus. Djakkar heard someone calling out his name in the distance. Djakkar- what was that? Voice- someone is calling you, follow it! He went to where the voice came from. On a hill near the river, Mazzie sat and called his name, a cloud formed into a vision. Djakkar- who called? Mazzie- it's me, Mazzie. Djakkar- how are you? Mazzie- Not good at all, since your death I haven't been able to sleep or do anything. Djakkar- don't worry, I'm not in heaven. Mazzie-Your not?? Djakkar- Neither in hell. Mazzie- Why? Djakkar- Because of my blood. Mazzie- your blood? Djakkar- Don't you remember? It was here our blood was unioned. Mazzie- Now I remember, but that wont change a thing, would it? Djakkar- Yes it would, now I can be reborn to any creature, and I think I would be a lion. Mazzie- you will? Then we can be together again. but... Who are going to be your mother? Djakkar- A black lioness you know very well. Mazzie- Azouka! Djakkar- we'll meet again, my sweet. Mazzie- See ya! How can I recognize you? Djakkar- Look for a cub with black fur, a brown belly and a white tail tip. Then the vision disappeared, and left Mazzie alone on the hill. A few months later, Azouka gave birth to three cubs, two identical females and a black male. At the same time, Mazzie walked along the riverbed, and accidentally she stepped on a land mine, blowing her into shreds. Muridja saw this and ran as fast as she could back to the den. In the den. Marhiza asked her sister what she would name her cubs. Azouka- Well... I don't know yet, but this black fella seems familiar. Marhiza- Yes I've felt that too. Azouka- Now I got his name... Mirthza, and the two others N'rilta and M'boku Marhiza- Welcome to the world cubs. Suddenly she felt the pains from a birth. Marhiza- Hey, I'm not pregnant... The pain grew stronger as she pushed a cub into the world. Marhiza- this is strange; I haven't been pregnant and still I give birth to... She got silent when she saw the cub; it was identically to Mazzie when she was in that age. Muridja came in with tears in her eyes. Muridja- Mazzie is dead... Then she saw the cub. Muridja- it can't be?? Marhiza- I think so, she is reborn. As Mazzie got her eyes up she saw Mirthza, and when he saw her they both crawled to each other, when they reached each other, they hugged. Azouka- [to Marhiza] did you see that? Marhiza- Yes I did, I think that black fella is Djakkar. Azouka- why do you think that? Marhiza- I know they had feelings for each other. Azouka- what are we going to do with those turtledoves? Marhiza- first, give them some milk, then I think a betrothal would be a good idea. Azouka- I agree. Unknowing of their sister's death, Kifo and Azy searched for her. Kifo- where do you think she went? Azy- Why not at the river? Kifo- that's a good idea. Azy- I know, I'm a genius. Kifo- I'm not in the mood for a fight... He stopped when he saw his sister's body terared apart Azy- No... Kifo- L... let' g...go tell mother. They both ran as fast as they could to the den. Kifo- Mother! Mazzie is ... Newborn? Azy- what are you... you're right! Marhiza- Come greet your sister. Azy- H... how? Azouka- we don't know, but we think this one [pointing at Mirthza] is Djakkar, now known as Mirthza. Kifo- [looking on Mirthza] yes he seem familiar. Azy- And I think this is Mazzie. Marhiza- Her name will be Mazzie this life too, and you are going to be big brothers so ... Behave! Kifo- we will mom! Azouka- Now go and play, your mother and I are very tired. Azy- Ok, aunt Azouka. The brothers left the den. Azouka- [to Marhiza] Well... how did you get pregnant if you haven't met a male in a half year? Marhiza- I think it's faith. The conversion Days went to be weeks and the cubs grew older, Mazzie and Mirthza was inseparable as friends, not knowing of their betrothal, Playing like cubs use to do. (At the same time in the pride lands it have come to the part "slaves") A messenger was sent to Marhiza. Lioness- Look, a hyena. Kahzila- Let's see what it had for breakfast. Hyena- [raspy voice] No. I want to speak with your Queen. I have a message for her. Kahzila- Follow me. Some lionesses went with them as guards. Marhiza- [to cubs] now go out and play [turning to the hyena] What do you want? Hyena- YOUR'E MINE! All the lionesses in the den got possessed Hyena- now call in the other lionesses. One by one they got possessed. Hyena- [thinking] where did those cubs go? Ah... they will die anyway. [speaking out loud] All right! Follow me to your master. Lionesses- we will follow. Mirthza and the other cubs was hiding behind a rock and saw their pride be forced away. Mirthza- No... they can't leave us like that. Keiva- did you not see their eyes, it was unnatural. Azy- can't we help them? Keiva- we got to get away from here! Mirthza- Yea, They will probably be searching for us. Niow- where can we go? Mirthza- Not to the pride lands. Kifo- No they'll just tear us apart. Mirthza- Then I don't know. A Helicopter flew over their heads and landed some metres away. Keiva- what is that? Mirthza- I recognize it in somehow. Keiva- Anyway... Shh. Some men came out of the chopper, one of them where Dan. Mirthza- I think I've seen that guy in the middle before, but where? Mazzie- they don't seem to be hostile. Mirthza- I know they are not hostile, I can understand what they are saying, that one in the middle is named Daan. Mazzie- shall we have a look? Mirthza- why not? They walked towards the humans, who where busy setting up a communications array. Man- Ha... Do you see those cubs?, they don't seem to be afraid. Dan- I'm not blind, we are not here to look at cubs. Man- Yes I know, we are here to find that commando... Djakkar. Mirthza- Djakkar... I recognize that name... Mazzie- Me to... Mirthza- Now I know... it's me. I was called Djakkar in a previous life; I think I can some of their language. Mirthza- [on human tongue] Hey Dan! Dan- who said that? Mirthza- Here you moron, the cub. Dan- where do you know my name from, cub? Mirthza- I've think I met you before, and someone called Jim. Dan- that's right. Mirthza- Now I know, the ruined city, in a bunker. Dan- you can't possibly have been born the last time I was here. Mirthza- Not me, Djakkar. Dan- do you know where he is? Mirthza- Yes and no, you are talking to him. Dan- you are not Djakkar... Mirthza- I was in a previous life. Dan- so you mean that Djakkar is dead? Mirthza- I'm sorry, but I am. Dan- then our mission is a failure; we were to find you, and learn the language of the animals... Mirthza- Hmmm... Try brain amplifiers, they help. Dan- Brain. What? Mirthza- Brain-amplifiers. The greenies were experimenting on such. Dan- Well. Thanks for your help... Mirthza- that's nothing. Dan- if we can help you so just name it. Mirthza turned to the other cubs, giving them a signal to come forward. Dan- Where are your pride? Mirthza- A long way from here. Dan- I'm sorry Mirthza- [to the other cubs in lion tongue] He can help us. Kifo- How? Mirthza- I think you have heard the legend of "the pride of the mist". Kifo- yes we have, but that's only a legend. Mirthza- No it's not, these humans can get us there. Kifo- How, the misty peaks lies too far away from here. Mirthza- they fly us there. Azy- What? fly? Mirthza- yes, fly, in that thing over there [pointing at the chopper] Kifo- All right then! Mirthza- Good, [In human tongue] There is one thing you can do for us. Dan- what is that? Mirthza- can you fly us to the misty peaks? Dan- Why just there? Mirthza- because we can get some help there. Dan- Ok, I'll talk to the others. He went to the others and came back a minute later. Dan- Ok, get in! Mirthza- Thanks, [in lion tongue] what are you waiting for, let's get in. All the cubs where flown to the misty peaks, and the humans said farewell and flew away. Azy- What now? Voice- HALT! Who goes there? Azy- A lot of cubs. Voice- where do you come from? Kifo- From the far Northeast. Voice- that's a long way from home, Stay there. The voice disappeared, the cubs didn't dare to move a muscle After a while, some lionesses came out of the fog. Lioness- don't be afraid, cubs, follow us! The cubs followed the strange lioness to a huge cave, on a stone there sat a big male lion. Lion- so you are the cubs? Mirthza- Yes we are... who are you? The lion laughed Lion- I'm Orog, king of this land, what brings you here? Mirthza- our pride got possessed by a hyena with crimson eyes. Orog- that's strange, but since the loss of your pride, you are welcome to stay with us, until things get better. No one of the cubs believed their ears. Orog- now follow N'krein and he will show you my land. The cub's folloved the leopard but Mirthza and Mazzie was stopped. Orog- No not you two, I want to speak with you. Mazzie- Why? Mirthza- Yea, why? Orog- First, I want to know your names, Mazzie- I'm Mazzie. Mirthza- I'm Mirthza. Orog- Second, because there are something different about you two, now I got it... you are both dead. Mazzie- No, can't you see that we are alive? Orog- I didn't mean it that way, you have both been reincarnated, you Mirthza were the human Djakkar, and you Mazzie, you where you're self. Your love for each other caused chaos in the gods system, the only thing they could do was to see too that you both died, but something went wrong... because of your mixed blood neither of you could enter heaven, so... you got reborn at the same time. Mazzie- we got the point, can we go now? Orog- OK... go! They went after the other cubs. The rescue Marhiza did stand against the curse, but due to her already crimson eyes it couldn't be seen, she knew that if she was then it was all over. At night somewhere on the savannah. Marhiza- [thinking] I got to get away before they detect me; I'm going to flee tonight. As if faith helped her, she was set on guard duty that night, it was the perfect time to flee, and so she did, she ran to the south, after a while she saw some lions and a lot of cubs. Lioness- Oh no. Lion- we can handle her [shouting] STOP! Marhiza- No way! You are not gonna possess me... Lion- what are you talking about? Marhiza- so you're not... no, you don't have red eyes. I was nearly scared, you got to help me... Orkam have possessed my pride... Lion- Orkam is dead, It must have been the monster who used to be my brother, besides we are escaping from his clutches to the Jungle on the other side of the desert. Marhiza- The Desert, are you mad? It means certain death to go out there. Lioness- it means death to stay here. Lion- she is right, are you with us? Marhiza- I don't have much of a choice, do I? Lion- no... I'm Umuntu. Lioness- I'm Imbali. Marhiza- Pleased to meet you, I'm Marhiza. Umuntu- The queen of the death lands? Marhiza- yes, that one, anyway, we have a desert to cross Imbali- In deed. (they crossed the desert) On the other side Imbali- we made it, we're saved Marhiza- well... I have to search for my cubs. Umuntu- what makes you think they're here? Marhiza- I've have that feeling only a mother can have. Imbali- well, I see, Good luck. Marhiza ran away in direction of the misty peaks, when she got there she was also stopped, she explained what she was doing so she was allowed to enter, and she was brought in front of Orog. Orog- so, you are looking for your cubs? Marhiza- Yes your majesty, I am. Orog- what is your name then? Marhiza- I'm known as Marhiza. Orog- The Queen on death, very well [to cubs hiding a bit away] ok, cubs do you recognize her? Kifo, Azy- Yes she is our mother. Orog- Wait, don't you see her eyes? Kifo- She always had crimson eyes. Orog- so... Then she shall prove that she is not possessed, [to a baboon] Nasyd, come over here. Nasyd- Yes my lord? Orog- Nasyd, Is she possessed? Nasyd inspected her carefully, her red tail got impatient. Nasyd- No she is not possessed; she was born with crimson eyes and therefore resistant. Orog- OK, cubs, go to your mother. Any cub- Mother! We have missed you so. Marhiza- I missed you too. Mazzie- How about the others? Marhiza- they are still possessed by that monster. Orog- Well, you can stay here until things get better Marhiza- Thanks for your mercy, your highness. Cub- Come on mom, we will show you these lands The cubs showed Marhiza the beauty of the land. Two moths later: Azara and his brother were now full grown lions, Azara still went under the nickname "fuzz ball" because he had a lot of fur pointing out almost everywhere, their sisters were now two very beautiful lionesses, they had their first kill some days ago. Mirthza looked rather ridiculous with black fur, a little red dusk on his head on of course the white tail tip. Mazzie and Mirthza sat at the entrance, waiting for something fun to happen, when the usual voice went: Voice- HALT! Who goes there? Leopard- [With Umuntu] it's me, Ingwe, I brought some friends. Voice- then enter. Another leopard came out from the shadows. Ingwe- Cisab, What's been happening while I was gone? I don't rerecognize those cubs [pointing at Mirthza] Cisab- Oh, they are some cubs from the "death pride" Ingwe- The "death pride"... are you mad... they are going to slaughter us for this! Cisab- Calm down, their leader is here as well. Ingwe- Marhiza, the Queen of death, HERE? Umuntu- Marhiza... we met her on the other side of the desert, she said that her pride got possessed. Cisab- Just what she told us... well who are your friends? Ingwe- Sorry, I almost forgot. Cisab, this is Umuntu and Imbali, Umuntu, Imbali this is Cisab, we joined this pride at the same day. Cisab- it's getting late, it would be an honor if you use my spot for the night. Imbali- you are very kind. Cisab- [to Ingwe] you know the way, and take those cubs with as well. Ingwe led Umuntu and Imbali to the spot, the cubs followed. Umuntu and Imbali fell asleep nearly instant, Ingwe sat up and talked to Mirthza and Mazzie. [next day continues as TLK7] As the pride went to retake the pride lands, Marhiza followed as a spy. At the western border. Orog- [to Marhiza] are you sure you can recognize your pride? Marhiza- As I can remember my name, Of course. Orog- then get going. Because of her crimson eyes, she could spy in the pride lands undetected. She found her pride, still possessed, she went back to Orog. Marhiza- [to Orog] all of my eleven pride members are still alive, they look very weak, so they would not give much resistance. [Jembulika came and the rest of the overtake continues as TLK7] After the pride lands were freed, Marhiza went back to the misty peaks to tell of the victory and to get her children. Marhiza- All right children, we are going home again. All of the cubs were happy, they went with Marhiza to see their pride, and then they began to travel home. Once home they drew some hyenas from their den with minimum of strength. Mazzie and Mirthza sat at the waterhole and talked about the last times events. Mirthza- it's finally over. Mazzie- Yes, and thank god for that. Mirthza- One thing is bothering me. Mazzie- What? Mirthza- I haven't seen my sisters in a long time now. Mazzie- me neither, but let's talk about something else... Her brothers came from behind. Kifo- well... well Turtle doves. Azy- [grinning] yea... how about a bath? Mirthza- you wouldn't dare "fuzz ball" Azy- I'm so scared of your attitude, little friend. Mirthza- I'm gonna show you, who is the little. He jumped on Azy and pushed him into the water hole. Mirthza- [triumphing] look's like you were the one to take a bath? Eh? Azy- [very angry] I'll give you thirty seconds, then I come after you. Mirthza- I'm so scared of a wet "fuzz ball" He hid in a bush behind the den, still in the bush when Azy came looking for him. Mirthza jumped out of the bush when Azy walked by, Nearly scaring him to death. Mirthza- 2-0 to me! Azy- you little black pest, I'm gonna get you for that. Mirthza- you're too clumsy. Marhiza came to the scene Marhiza- [to Azy] Have you taken a bath? Azy- No that little black pest pushed me in. Marhiza- so... a cub defeats you??? Now go away, I want to speak to Mirthza. They went into the den, Azouka were there. Marhiza- here's your son, Azouka. Now go to your mother, Mirthza. He slowly padded over to this mother lying on the floor. Mirthza- what's up, mom? Azouka- my time has come, my son. Mirthza- No... not now... Azouka- it is just the way of the circle, you can't stop it my son, we will all get old and die. But... will you do one last thing for me? Mirthza- [nearly crying] what's that mom? Azouka- Find your sisters and tell them that I love them... Then the old black lioness died in front of her sons eyes. Mirthza tried to stop his tears but failed. Marhiza- she is gone... Let's go tell they others. Mirthza- C...Can I stay here? Marhiza- sure... The rest of the pride came in and carried the body out in the open, they held a memorial for her. Mazzie- I'm sorry, Mirthza. Mirthza- Well. It's just the way of the circle. Three months passed, Mazzie and Mirthza sat at the waterhole The night came, and Mazzie and Mirthza were still out. Mazzie- Come, I want to show you something' Mirthza- what is it? Mazzie- Come see it for your self. Mirthza- Ok... They went to the hill at the river. Mazzie- do you remember this spot? Mirthza- no, not clearly. Mazzie- Look up on the stars... someone once told me about a sign called the lioness... can you see the three stars forming a triangle? Mirthza- Yes [it suddenly came to him] Mazzie and Mirthza- A line of stars leading to the east and the two last stars... Mirthza- is in your eyes. Mazzie- that's right, and right beside her, is the lion. Mirthza- you're kidding! Mazzie- Yes I am, did you know that we were betrothed? Mirthza- No I didn't. Mazzie- my mother told me that today, when we were just born, mother said that we hugged. Mirthza- I don't remember that. Mazzie- Of course you don't, you were too young, anyway, mother and Azouka decided to betroth us for that reason. Muridja approached. Muridja- There you are, it's getting' late. Mirthza- we're coming, just go ahead. Muridja padded away. Mirthza- [to Mazzie] Before my mother died she gave me a task, it was to find my lost sisters. Mazzie- so... Mirthza- so I will leave tomorrow, but one final thing... Mazzie- Yes? Mirthza- eh... nothing. Mazzie- come on. Mirthza- do you want to... marry me? Mazzie- As much as I want to be alive, YES! They both went back to the den and lay down next to each other. Next day Mirthza started his journey. Marhiza knew what he was doing so she let him go. His first destination was Pride rock, when he got to the border he met a lioness on border patrol. Lioness- who's there? Mirthza- I'm Mirthza, I wish to talk with your king. Lioness- Wish granted, follow me. He was led to the mighty pride rock, he had just seen it in the distance before. Overwhelmed by the beauty he said Mirthza- it's more beautiful than I imagined. Lioness- it is, wait here. The lioness disappeared into the pride rock, she returned a few moments later with the rulers of the pride lands. Umuntu- so what do you want, Death Lander? Mirthza- Yes, I want to ask you a question. Umuntu- go on! Mirthza- I'm looking for my sisters, who disappeared more than a year ago. Umuntu- what makes you think they are here? Mirthza- because they was also possessed by the Mighty, but they were gone after the death of the spirit. Imbali- what were their names? Mirthza- M'boku and N'rilta. Umuntu- I'm sorry, but I haven't heard of her. Imbali- Me neither. Mirthza- To bad, now I have to go somewhere else. Imbali- Good luck, Death Lander. Mirthza travelled to the Misty peaks, hoping that anyone have seen his sisters. He came to the guard. Guard- HALT! Who goes there? Mirthza- don't say you don't recognize me, Cisab. Cisab- Oh... It's you Mirthza, what do you want? Mirthza- well... I'm looking for my sisters, M'boku and N'rilta. Cisab- I haven't heard of them, wait here, I'll go and ask. Cisab went to Namandla. Nami- Cisab, Why are you leaving your post? Cisab- Sorry my king, But Mirthza wants something. Nami- what can that be? Botse- why don't you go ask him? Nami- Let's go. The rulers of the Misty peaks appeared before Mirthza. Nami- so you what do you want, Death Lander? Mirthza-That's exactly the same answer I got from your brother... well, I'm looking for my sisters, M'boku and N'rilta. Botse- we have one called N'rilta here, may be she is your sister, Cisab, go get N'rilta. Cisab- At once my Queen. A while later Cisab returned with a lioness. Nami- [to lioness] this lion proclaims to be your brother, N'rilta. N'rilta- It could be...[to Mirthza] what are our mothers name? Mirthza- Azouka. N'rilta- that's correct, what are your name? Mirthza- Mirthza. N'rilta- One more question... How do my sister look like? Mirthza- exactly as you. N'rilta- No doubt! He is my brother. She padded forward to him. N'rilta- It's been a long time since... so what's been happening? Mirthza- I only got sad news, Mother is dead. N'rilta- [shocked] How? Mirthza- by age, her last wish was that I found you and tell you that she always loved you. N'rilta- that's sad, do you know where our sister is? Mirthza- I thought that she was here with you? N'rilta- no she disappeared at the pride rock that day. Mirthza- Well I at least found you sis', but I have to get going, Farewell, N'rilta. N'rilta- I hope I will see you again. Mirthza went of. Nami- that was sad news. Botse- are you all right, N'rilta? N'rilta- Yes, I'm just shocked, today I just found out that I was pregnant, and then my lost brother turns up, tells me of my mothers death, and then disappear. The Iron pride Mirthza got to the border to the unknown lands beyond, he sat at a waterhole trying to have a drink, when a whistling sound make it to his ear, seconds later, a coconut hits his head. Mirthza- [very confused] Hey? What was that? Nothing happened Mirthza- [thinking] that was nothing. He tried a second time to drink when a swarm of berries bombarded him. Mirthza- [out in the air] Hey! Quit it! A voice came from above. Voice- then leave our lands, stranger. Mirthza- who... where are you? The answer was an orange thrown in his head. Mirthza- I said, Quit it! Voice- I hope you got the message! Mirthza- Well... no strangers, I guess. An ocelot came down from the trees. Ocelot- I'm Novu, Who are you? Mirthza- I'm Mirthza. Novu- Where are you from? Mirthza- The Death lands. Novu- that's a long way from here, Mirthza. What are you doing here? Mirthza- I'm looking for my sister, M'boku. Have you seen her? Novu- our king's mate was called M'boku, but I don't think she is your sister. Mirthza- why not? Novu- don't be stupid, She is a Ocelot, that's why! Mirthza- oh...[seeing his fault] well... what are this land called? Novu- The Jaw lands, and you have to get out of here before... Some grey lionesses came out from nowhere. Novu- [completing] To late, they are here. Mirthza- who are here? G. lioness- The Iron pride, you moron. Mirthza turned around and saw the lionesses G. lioness- you have violated our borders. Mirthza- I don't know where those borders run. G. Lioness- then we will have to teach you that [to the others] Get him... Alive. Mirthza was surrounded by grey lionesses in a mater of seconds. G. Lioness- now you may be listen, who are you? Mirthza-I'm Mirthza, son of Azouka. G. Lioness- So... Mirthza... we are going to give you a little bath. The lionesses forced him to the waterhole, when his paws touched the water they immediately turned from black to grey. G. lioness- Go on, Mirthza, all the way down. Novu- No, get out of there, you become one of them. G. Lioness- teach him to shut up, throw him into the den. One of the grey lionesses took Novu and threw him into the den. When he got up he was all grey, his once black spots where now a slightly darker form of grey than the rest of his fur. Novu- [fading voice] Get out of there. [another voice came] No, go all the way down, it's just good for you. Mirthza- what have you done to him? G. Lioness- It's called the Iron birth, now it's your turn. She attacked him with her claw rejected, forcing him bellow the surface of the water, when she let him get up he was all grey except his red-greyish mane, his tail tip had now a silver like colour. G. lioness- He is one of us now, let him get up. The lionesses backed of and allowed the greyish lion to get out of the pond Mirthza- [fading voice] damn you... [iron voice] good day sisters. G. lioness- welcome in our pride, brother Mirthza, I am M'boku, the queen of this pride. Mirthza- [his own voice] M'boku, my lost sister. [Iron voice] Excuse me, my old me is still trubleling... now I got him under control. M'boku- [another voice] Are you my brother? [iron voice] Shut up. [her own voice] listen Mirthza, you got to wake up. [Iron voice] Can anyone knock me down, she is beginning to annoy me. One of the Grey lionesses knocked her of her feet. M'boku- [fading voice] you have to wake up brother... [iron voice] That's better, she will probably not be arguing for some time, Now let's get home everyone. And you, Novu, go show your former pride what happens if they dare to cross us again. Novu- Yes, Sister. M'boku- [to Mirthza] Well... we shall present you to the others in our pride, brother. Mirthza- How many are there, sister? M'boku- Now we are 17 lionesses, 3 leopards and one ocelot, plus you, brother. A bit away. Novu- [to himself on his own voice] go away! [Iron voice] No, Novu, I will stay here forever. He went silent when he met one from his former pride. Ocelot- Hi Novu... What have happened to you?? Novu- [iron voice] shut up Mairj. [his own voice] RUN! I'm possessed! Novu knocked himself off his feet. Novu- [iron voice] that's gonna teach you to shut up, Bring me to your king, NOW!! Mairj- [terrified] f... follow me... They got to a tree shaped like a fork. Mairj- [to other ocelots] guard him! She stepped forwards to the tree Mairj- [shouting] N'kivo! Come down! An elegant ocelot came out from the tree. N'kivo- what's up, Mairj? Mairj- they got Novu! N'kivo- what? Mairj- see for your self. N'kivo- [to Novu] what's happened to you? Novu- you don't want to know that, but let's say I got to the better side. N'kivo- you're not my son, you're an Iron monster. Novu- [his own voice] Father! Help me! [iron voice] Shut up! [own voice] please, help me! [iron voice] No one can help you now, and if anyone DARES to cross us, you will all end up the same way. Novu turned around and walked away. The Iron cliff All members of the Iron pride sat at the Iron cliff, waiting for their queen to come out. M'boku- [coming out] [very raspy iron voice] Listen up, I and my brother Mirthza are united again, now we just miss my dear sister, N'rilta... unfortunaly she is with the pride of the mist, but we might be able to bypass them and kidnap her, when we all are together, then we can proceed with our plans. Whole pride- ALL POWER TO IRON! The pride shattered, everyone doing their own thing. M'boku went to her brother. M'boku- Tell me of your former pride? Mirthza- [own voice] not a chance... [iron voice] Shut up... I have learned about the "death pride" led by Marhiza. M'boku- Oh... the queen of death... very well. Mirthza- and her daughter, Mazzie, to whom I'm engaged. M'boku- we deal with them as soon as we converted our sister, [to a leopard] Shaia, get over here. Shaia- Yes, sister? M'boku- Get over to the misty peaks, and get all information on them. Shaia- At once, sister. The grey leopard departed. M'boku- and you, brother, are going to "convince" Marhiza to join us. Mirthza- On my way. M'boku- Wait, come up to the den, I'm in my season now. Mirthza- [own voice] NO! [iron voice] Yes, sister, it would be a pleasure. They went up to the den. [I'm not going to describe what happened there] Next day Mirthza departed to the death lands. The first he met was Kifo out hunting. Kifo had just killed something when he saw Mirthza. Kifo- who are you? Mirthza- [iron voice] it's me, Mirthza, don't you recognize me? Kifo- what happened to your fur, it's all grey, and your voice? Mirthza- [iron voice] Come with me, I'll show you. Kifo- I wasn't hungry anyway, is it far from here? Mirthza- Not that long, we can get there in less than thirty minutes. Kifo- what are we waiting for? Mirthza- You! They went off, Mirthza lured Kifo to go into the pond, when he got up, he was also a member of the iron pride, Azy was lured the same way, then Mirthza met Mazzie. Mazzie- Mirthza! What happened to you? Mirthza- Come and I'll show you [own voice] Run, I'm possessed by the Iron... [iron voice] Damn fool, shut up. [own voice] don't stand there, RUN!!! I try to keep myself here. When the curse got the control again, Mazzie was far away, she ran to her mother, telling her about the awful thing. Marhiza- Are you sure? Mazzie- Yes, He was all grey and he had grey eyes and a strange, cold voice. He told me to follow, and to run away. Marhiza- Gather the pride, we must stop this madness. The pride was assembled. Mazzie- There is defiantly missing three. Marhiza- who are missing? Mazzie- It's Kifo, Azy and Khint'jo. Marhiza- that's bad, well we are going to the pride lands for help. The Death pride marched away, the pride Landers met them rather rough at the border. Umuntu- Why are you here, Marhiza? Marhiza- we have a HUGE problem that might threaten us all. Umuntu- I'm listening. Marhiza- some of my pride has been converted to the Iron pride, I fear that they are growing strong Umuntu- the Iron Pride? Never heard of them, what exactly is the threat? Marhiza- they have the power to convert anyone into their pride. Umuntu- Everyone? Marhiza- Even the purest of hearts can be converted, even you. Umuntu- does my brother know about this? Marhiza- I fear that it is too late for them. Umuntu- How to come? Marhiza- The iron pride lives in the Jaw lands next to your brothers, but if we are quick enough we may be able to assist them. Umuntu- what are we waiting for? Marhiza- Christmas? No, let's go! The both prides marched to the misty peaks. But it was too late, the children of Marhiza had joined Iron, they were now very powerful, Umuntu found his brother and some lionesses hiding in a cave. Umuntu- Nami, are you there? Namandla- is it you, brother? Umuntu- what's happened, Nami? Namandla- we were attacked by an unknown pride, they were all grey. Marhiza- Then it is too late, they already got too strong. Namandla- who were they? Umuntu- it was the Iron pride from the Jaw lands. Namandla- But... Its just ocelots living there. Marhiza- Not anymore, it seems that the iron curse still converts creatures. Namandla- Mirthza was with them. Umuntu- we already know that. Namandla- let me finish, there were also a lioness looking exactly like N'rilta, and those who were not killed was forced away, even the cubs. Marhiza- Then it is all over, the iron pride is now almost invincible, we cannot defeat them, we are too few. A lioness with some sort of amulet around her neck appeared from nowhere. Lioness- that's not true, they are not invincible; the only thing that can defeat the curse is true love. Marhiza- who are you? Lioness- don't you recognize me? I'm the shaman Zinagi, your sister, but this is only a vision, my real is far from here, so I can't help you, I can only give you an advice. Umuntu- Let us hear. Zinagi- The power of the iron pride comes from the Iron pond, let me tell you the story... The legacy of Iron For a long time ago, there were a pride of lions living in the Jaw lands, they were peaceful and lived in harmony under their rulers. The rulers had two sons, the one called Iron and the other Clay, they hated each other. All trough cub hood, Clay and Irons hate grew. Their parents saw this and decided to separate them, all trough this was a big mistake, they both got a little pride and a bit of land in opposite side of the Jaw lands to rule, Iron and Clay still hated each other. Iron decided that he alone should rule the entire Jaw lands, from the Jaw mountains in the west to the Misty peaks in the east, he planned his brothers death in detail. One day the beloved rulers of the Jaw lands died, and both sons claimed to be the rightful heir, and a war broke out between them, none of them could possibly win, so they decided to challenge each other, the challenge took place at the pond. Iron came alone but Clay betrayed and brought his pride, just when the fight began, Clay's pride forced Iron out in the water, just before he got murdered, he spoke the curse, "All who ever again touches this water, will be slaves under a pride called Iron" When the lionesses killed him, they who were in the water changed colour to grey, the cursed lionesses killed Clay before they got themselves killed, those who survived left the Jaw lands in lack of leadership, they just disappeared. Zinagi- But that is not all, when all of a black lionesses cubs are under the curse, they will start to invade and enslave neighbouring lands. Marhiza- All of Azoukas children are cursed by Iron. Zinagi- Then you're only choice is to leave these doomed lands and never come back. The vision disappeared and Mirthza appeared in its place. Marhiza- I know Mirthza, you are here for me! Mirthza- [own voice] NO... [iron voice] Yes I am... [own voice] Don't listen to him... [iron voice] Shut the hell up! [own voice] No, I have found a way to get rid of the curse. [knocks himself off his feet] [iron voice] no, you don't, you're too weak for me [own voice] IRON I FORGIVE YOU! [iron voice] you wouldn't dare... [own voice] IRON I LOVE YOU! [fading iron voice] damn you... [own voice] IRON COME BACK! Then a big explosion was at Mirthzas position when the smoke disappeared; there were a lion form and a human form at the spot. Marhiza- Djakkar!! you?!? Djakkar- huh? who said that? Marhiza- are you blind? Mirthza- it will pass over in a matter of minutes. Marhiza- Hey Djakk, you better sit down. Djakkar- Sounds like a good idea. Marhiza- [to Umuntu] your father probably spoken 'bout him. Umuntu- yes he have... A helicopter flies over them and lands in the middle of the opening, a lot of men in green clothes come out of it. Green man- Oh my... Lions [to other men] There he is, get him! Djakk just got his sight back, and he pulled his gun and pointed it at the leader. Djakkar- No you're not. Green man- Look out, he has a gun. Djakkar- [to the leader] well, well... isn't it the madman of green? Green leader- Aw, you got me... Djakkar-I should kill you for what you've done Green leader- Just try, I'm invincible... Djakkar pulled the trigger, a "ptju" later and the green leader fell to the ground. Djakkar- No one is invincible, Humankind is now revenged. Mazzie- yeah right... What are you going to do with those henchmen? Djakkar- Hmm... you could have some practice on them... Marhiza- excellent... attack! Every one of the greenies were killed. Marhiza- Now what? Mazzie- Yeah, what are you to do now? Djakkar- well, I'm going to help my ally... Marhiza- you got here in the right time, you probably knows what happened here, so let's get on with it. The three prides agreed. Marhiza- [to Djakkar] can you manoeuvre that thing? [pointing at the chopper] Djakkar- Of course, I can bring you almost anywhere in it. Marhiza- fine... [to all] who wanna join for a ride? Umuntu, Mazzie and Namandla voulenteered. Marhiza- we are going for the shaman Zinagi. Djakkar- then let's get going, get in! All the lions where amazed over how their lands looked like from above. Djakkar- where does this Zinagi live? Marhiza- In a land she called Moumbaasa. Djakkar- Sounds like Mombassa. Marhiza- yes, I just can't pronounce it right. Do you know where it is? Djakkar- Of course, but it's no land, it's a city, and it will take approximately two hours to get there. After two and a half hour they landed in the ruins of central Mombassa. Djakkar- Now let's go find that Shaman. Zinagi- you don't have to, human, I'm here. The shaman lioness sat on an old bunker, with her amulet around her neck. Zinagi- so, if you goes into this den... Djakkar- No offence, but that is a bunker. Zinagi- anyway, get in there, there is someone waiting for you. He went into the bunker and saw Jim half beaten to death lying on some sort of bed. Djakkar- well... Jim! Jim- [frightened] Djakk? is that you? Djakkar- Yes, it's me, what happened to you? Jim- some greenies found me and brought me here, and beat the shit out of me, and then left me to die in here, that lioness who lives here took good care of me, I wonder why. She even thought me some of their language. Djakkar- Have you spoken to her? Jim- not directly, but through my mind... The chopper suddenly flew away, Djakkar rushed out of the bunker and saw that every lion was gone. Djakkar cursed at least thousand curses in five seconds before going back into the bunker. Djakkar- do you know if there is some sort of transport around here? Jim- Not exactly, but before you go, can you get me some of these? [showing him a plant] Djakkar- No problem. He went outside again, he found some of the plants nearby, and he put them in his pocket. He found an abdomned military camp, along with the skeletons and the ruined buildings, he found some old M-60 Tanks. Djakkar- [thinking] wonder if those tin cans still works. He climbed up in one of them and started it, it started Djakkar- Aren't I the lucky guy, it works. He drew the tank to a supply depot and armed it, then he drew back to the bunker. Djakkar- here you go. [he hands over the plants] Jim- Thanks man... Djakkar- when talking about tanks, can you drive an M-60? Jim- I didn't know that those old cans still was around, yes I can drive it, why? Djakkar- I found one just lying around, well, I'm hungry so I better go find some food. Jim- you don't have to, [he takes up a can of dog food] here you go. Djakkar opened the can and ate of it's contains. Djakkar- mmm, delicious, better than the army's standard excuse for food. Jim- don't even remind me of that shit, I nearly pukes at the thought of it. Next day. Jim had recovered from his wounds, and they both drew out of the ghost city. After a half day of driving, they reached the pride rock. Djakkar- I have the feeling that I've been here before... Jim- Sure, let's get after your friends. Djakkar- Right. They reached the misty peaks, there were three lionesses waiting for them, the poor lionesses nearly died in the sight of 30 tons of steel moving towards them. Lioness- who... what are you? Djakkar- [out of the turret] I'm an M-60, some of your friends leaved my pal in a city. Lioness- w.we ha had to, t. the time w.was running short, Marhiza told us to wait for Djakk here. Djakkar popped out from the turret. Djakkar- I take that as an apology. Lioness- oh, it is you, you nearly scared us to death. Djakkar- sorry about that, let's get after the others, get up here. The lionesses climbed down into the tank and they drew to the Iron pond, once there they saw Marhiza and some others fight to keep the iron pride from the pond. The appearance of the enormous tank, the iron pride was scared away. The three lionesses climbed out of the tank. Marhiza- Let me guess, Djakkar, you just came in time. Djakkar- yeah, it's me, hey some things happening. The pond started to bubble. Zinagi- it's almost ready now, all we need is a lightning. Djakkar- [to Jim] Don't these old cans have AIE devices? Jim- I think so, why? Djakkar- Good, Get out, I going to drive this tank to annihilation. Jim- But?... Djakkar- [pulls his gun] I SAID GET OUT!! Jim jumps out of the tank and runs to safety. Djakkar- Get away from the pond, one lightning's coming up. He started the AIE and drew the tank right out in the water, the water caused the high-voltage to go short circuit, the discharge was so powerful that it caused the tank to fly several hundred metres away. Then a reddish lightning came from nowhere and struck the pond with a loud bang, the water slowly disappeared, Irons curse was finally broken. Marhiza- Oh no, it's the iron pride. Zinagi- they are harmless now. Kifo and Azy came with them. Kifo- Mother! Marhiza- Kifo, Azy, you're alive... Jim- [on very bad tongue] don't forget Djakk. Marhiza- Yeah, where did he go? Mazzie- [pointing at the tank] I think he went on his final trip. Marhiza- Let's go! The four prides including Jim ran as fast as they could to the crashed M-60. Mazzie tried to enter it but was stopped by Jim, who self went in, he came out with a lifeless body. Mazzie- is he... Djakkar- [very weak] no I'm not... yet. Marhiza- shh, do not try to speak. Djakkar- [even weaker] remember... me... Then he died for the second time. Jim- [still on bad language] he's gone. Mazzie- [nearly crying] He sacrificed himself for us. Umuntu- Let us all remember him on this day, for all that he has done. They held a memorial for him, and it was surely a strange one, lions holding it for a human. Afterwards Jim disappeared, and the iron prides leader, M'boku came forward. M'boku- now when our curse is broken, we will live in peace... Azy- [standing at M'boku's side] Mother, I and M'boku decided do rule the Jaw lands so... Marhiza- so just go, my little "fuzz ball" go to where your heart belongs. [to her pride] We have a long journey ahead, so let's get going. All the four prides lived in peace for many years to come, and every year on this day they all came and paid their respects to the hero who saved them all, even Jim came, Dan had died in a battle with some greenies. The M-60 stood as a reminder for as long as anyone could remember. M'boku gave birth to two cubs who were to be the heir of the Jaw lands. Novu returned to his pride, Jim and the other survivors began to rebuild their once "glorious" life, Jim died as an old man. THE END!!! I know it ends sad, but so what, I didn't like him anyway, besides, the heroes never die. Sigurd Engerström.