Lion King II : Unexpected Prince Hello people! I hope you enjoyed the Lion King re-written. Now Here's a story which is connected to Lion King II and Lion King. aka. Lion King II re-written It starts when Simba and Nala are married while Zell and Ana are too. This is like the movie and the events following Zell and maybe go to Zell's Daughter Ziana. What I'm trying to say is: I WILL ONLY FOLLOW THE LIFE OF ZELL AND HIS DAUGHTER. AND MAYBE SIMBA OR IMPORTANT CHARACTERS!!! Ok? good. Here are the characters. Original characters from disney: Simba Nala Kiara Kovu Sarabi Serafina Timon Pumbaa Dead Mufasa Dead Scar Zira Nuka Vitani Zazu Rafiki Characters I made up: (Some of these characters may be familiar, can you tell me where I got Zell, Quistis and Selfie?) Zell Ana Ziana Shogan Kelfer `outcasts Tena 'outcasts Sari `outcasts Gund `outcasts Selena `outcasts Klanti `outcasts Hean 'outcasts Drego 'ex outcast Horde Marina Thor Adel Selfie `outcasts Adui [ Scar's Second Son] Msafiri [Traveller/Prince] Marina Thor Enjoy reading. If this is your first time reading one of my stories... I recomend you to start from Lion King: Zell and Simba Ok. If you wan't to use my characters go ahead!!! :) Just send me a copy of your story Involving my characters too! Please? Thanks! My e-mail is jedpaolo04@hotmail.com What happened so far: + Kiara and Ziana get's lost in the Outlands + Zell dreams of War + Serafina, Sarabi, Gund and Selena Die's of age + Kiara's and Ziana's first hunt + Wild fire + Ziana gets caught in the fire and brought out of the Pride lands by Msafiri + Zell tries to go into fire to find Ziana but gets knocked out by Simba. + Waits for Ziana outside with Kovu. Chapter 3: Undercover Prince ~*Outside with Kovu*~ Kovu: So, who is your daughter? Zell: Huh? Oh, Ziana... Kovu: So... What happened? Zell: She got caught in the fire... I know she's alive... [looks up at the stars] I just know. Kovu: ...... Zell: [remembering his dream] Scar wasn't your father was he? Kovu: [surprised] How did you-- Zell: I dreamed everything... Well not everything but the plot. Kovu: Plot? Zell: I think it's not my place to tell you. I think you should learn for yourself. If I tell you, things in the future might change. Kovu: [shrugs] [laugh] You Pride landers are always this promising? Zell: Actually thats just my style. I wan't to know more. Why did you come here? Kovu: Like I said... I am a rogue. Zell: [laugh] You don't look like one. Are you in some kind of assasination mission or what? Kovu: What!!! Zell: [laugh] Just kidding, I just want to see your reaction. [laugh] You sound too surprised. Kovu: Yeah... [laugh] You think you know too much do you? Zell: Actually......... I don't. I just guess, I'm a lion you may call not serious, but in a fight, don't test my patience. Kovu: Yeah right. Zell: I like you... Why don't you sleep? I'll probably stay awake all night. Kovu: All for your daughter? Why? Zell: I love her... Simba loves her daughter Kiara and Kiara loves her father also. To find her I will tear down a forest for her. I will confront any Pride. I will do anything. Kovu: Why not find her now? Zell: I know she lives... Her adventure home begins now. Kovu: ..... I'd better go to sleep. [walking behind a rock in the shade] Night. Zell: Good Night... Kovu: [sleeps] Zell: [thought] Ziana... I hope you come home... The adventure outside your home is now. ~*The next day*~ ZIANA'S HALF:- Ziana: Hey! Msafiri! Wake up! Msafiri: Huh? [stands up] It's the crack of dawn! Can't I sleep a little longer? [groans and lies down again] Ziana: [laugh] Whatever, I'll be back! Msafiri: [sleepily] Where are you going? Ziana: Going to finish my hunt I started! [shouting back as she ran out of the cave] ~*ten minutes later*~ Ziana: [crouching in the grass looking at her prey, the antelope] [pounce] Antelopes scattering away Ziana: [frustrated] They ditched me for the last time! [running after them remembering Zell's lesson to breathe] [final pounce] GOTCHA!!! [clawing down the antelope] ~*Meanwhile*~ ZELL'S HALF Simba: Zell? Are you still mad at me? [looking at Zell who had stayed up all night] Zell: ........ Simba: Zell... Sorry Zell: ....... Simba: [frustrated] I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!!! Zell: ...... [snore] Simba: .... [laugh] So? Fell asleep standing? Zell: ..... Simba: [walking beside Zell] Wake up! [nudging Zell on his side] Zell: [waking up] Ziana? ...... Oh, Simba... You wan't something? Simba: Are you mad at me? Zell: Partly but don't take it seriously. I'll soon drown it away. Simba: Oh... Zell: [sigh] Simba: Come on out with me. Let's go look around the Pride lands. Maybe we can get clues on where she's gone. Zell: Nah... I want her to come back by herself. ZIANA'S HALF:- Msafiri: Is that what you caught? Ziana: Yeah... My first... actually the first turned out to be a failure because of the fire. I guess this is my second. Msafiri: [taking a bite] [chewing it] How are you related to Pride Rock? I mean do your position in there? Ziana: Sure! Everyone say's that I am half royal because my father is the Kings daughter, so I'm kind of a substitute on a long throne range. Msafiri: So if the King and Queen dies their son or daughter will take the throne and if he or she dies without a cub you will take charge if your father and mother dies am I right? Ziana: I'm not sure I followed that but Yeah. Msafiri: Let's go now. I brought you very far from the Pride lands. At least further than the Leopard lands, have you heard of them? Ziana: Did I, My father has been there he told me stories all about there. Can we stop by there? I want to see my father's friends and if they know who I am they would probably give us some shelter for the time being. Msafiri: How will they trust you? Ziana: I don't know... I hope they will trust me. But if they don't they can always chase us out of their lands can they? Msafiri: [laugh] Sounds like a long shot! You really do take these risks most of the time? Ziana: You can say that! Come on! We don't want to waste time do we? Msafiri: No... Besides I would'st like to meet you father. Ziana: Yeah, they're great people. [leaving the Cave together with Msafiri] Msafiri: [walking under an overcast sky] It sure is a beautiful day. Ziana: I know... Too bad there's only very, very few grass areas in here. Msafiri: Yeah..... Pride Rock is South of here... Let's go [walking with Ziana beside him] Ziana: I told a lot about myself haven't I? How about you? Tell me about yourself. Msafiri: Lets see.... Where do I start? Ummm I'm a traveller or an adventurer looking--- Ziana: I know that part! Tell me where you came from, your parents, your Pride, Why you felt like venturing. Msafiri: I can't tell you all those but I can tell you why I liked venturing... Ziana: Is it a long story? Msafiri: Yeah, I'll tell you bits only because some are personal and it is a long journey to the Pride Lands. Ziana: Right... But got one Question before we start. How did you reach at least 100 miles or less in just one day? Msafiri: Who said it was only one day? Ziana: You mean... [eye's widening] Msafiri: You were unconsious the whole day... You woke up the next morning. Ziana: Really? Wow... And you carried me all the way... Why? Msafiri: I couldn't leave you there in the fire could I? Ziana: Of course not.. By the way.. Thank you for saving me. Msafiri: Don't mention it. It's the circle of life! Ziana: Ummm... I don't get it. Msafiri: Didn't your father tell you? Ziana: He did but I really don't understand it. Msafiri: Never mind... Let me just tell you why I became an adventurer. Ziana: Oh, Ok Msafiri: It was at least six and a half or maybe six years since I was born. [turns to Ziana] You are around my age right? Ziana: Right. Msafiri: My mother, Dethina was my mother. We were in a Pride just like you were, my father was the leader. He brought us to many places. Then there was this storm. We were travelling then. My father brought us to a cave to rest for the night. The next day, it was clear. My father kept us going on for days--- Ziana: Where is tis bringing us? Msafiri: [annoyed] Do you want me to finish? Ziana: Sorry. Msafiri: As I was saying, we were in the wilderness, to tell you the truth, I never knew where my home was. We were outcasts also, travelling far and wide. When I asked my father where we were going he would say he wasn't sure. I asked my mom too but she only cried. I was confused then... [stops] I think that will be enough for today. Ziana: Well... that was short. What was your father's name? Msafiri: Harpuia Ziana: Harpuia? Never heard of such a name. Msafiri: Me too... but for some reason.... Never mind. Ziana: Did you find the place you were looking for? Msafiri: Yeah... Ziana: [looking at the horizon, there were richer lands, near a small rainforset] Is that the leopard lands? It does have a lot of hills! Just like my dad said! Msafiri: Yeah... Did he tell you what the leopard lands was famous about? Ziana: Ummmm... No Msafiri: There's a half mountain in the middle of the grass lands... An odd place to have one don't you think? Ziana: Oh! That mountain! My father said that's where he stayed until his adolescence. Msafiri: Really? You mean he was only a cub!? That sounds familiar... Ziana: Wow... You're smart! Yeah... That's what he only said... He didn't tell me why he was only a cub then... He tells me to ask my Uncle but he didn't tell either. Msafiri: I bet it's something bad... Don't ask. Ziana: That's what I expect. Msafiri: [looking at the hills within the leap lands] If we walk at this rate we will make it at night! If we run we'll make it by mid-afternoon. So... Night sounds like a bad idea... Do you know why? Ziana: Are you giving me lessons? Anyway... It would be a bad idea because... They would think we are attacking? Msafiri: Exactly! Ziana: Are you going to ask me these pop quizes every now and then? Msafiri: Yeah, kind of keeps your brainpre-occupied. Ziana: Whatever, so? Shall we run? Msafiri: Oh, yes lets. Do you know how to run? Ziana: Of course! My father taught me! Msafiri: Oh Yeah!? [testingly] How? Ziana: It is important to breathe because it is important in hunting, breathing is also important in running because it depends on the rate of your exhaustion. Breathe faster as you go faster and breathe slower to get some air as you go slower. Msafiri: I'm impressed! Your father sure is cool! I've got to meet him! Ziana: [laugh] Let's run already! Race you there! [stopping] Ready? Msafiri: Are you serious? You're on! [stands beside Ziana] Set? Ziana and Msafiri: GO!!! [both breaking into a run side by side] Ziana: [Talking while running] You.... Are.....as......fast.....as......me!!! Msafiri: [laugh, running] I......know!!!......We......barely.....took the.......lead! Ziana and Msafiri: [laughing as they ran over a hill] Ziana: [stopping] Msafiri: [stopping] Ziana: My father and I once did this with me... [looking at the stars] We were laughing as we raced along side, then we would lie on the hill looking at the stars... He said it is what my he and my Uncle did before I was born. Msafiri: [looking at the stars] What was your father's name anyway? Ziana: Zell Msafiri: [shocked] THE ZELL!? Brother of Simba!? No Way! Ziana: What!? What's wrong!? Msafiri: My father brought us to many places. There has been rumors all around that two lions were wandering around, lost. Ziana: What? Msafiri: Zell, he was known for his strength in the Leap lands. Some leopards say he was a murderer who killed a king. But in time his name was cleared and the leopards found out that it was one of the Kings subjects who killed him. Ziana: So... that's what he's been hiding. Msafiri: I guess that's not all... I'll leave you to figure it out by yourself, ask your dad. By the way, everyone respects Zell and Simba outside of your kingdom! I mean, Zell and Simba, seperated only cubs! Three days of no food or water! A cub who ventured to the leap lands! Meets a pride of outcasts, finds hi brother! WOW! And you are his daughter! He's a living legend of adventurers! Simba on the other hand, travelling for countless of days as a cub! Known for his spirit, will power and many more! You have a great family! My dad told me of this before he passed away. Ziana: They... are legends? How come they know nothing of this? [starts walking again] Msafiri: [walks with her] Probably they are too busy. Ziana: Mmm-hmm... Msafiri: I am thrilled. [looks around] We are now on the borders of the leap lands. It's still noon. Let us continue running. Ziana: Okay. [running] Msafiri: [running too] ~* Around thirty minutes later*~ Msafiri: [pant] We made it! The mid-mountain. a few more steps and were there! Ziana: [pant] Wow! Come on! My father told me about a leopard named Marina, he told me to look for her if I am ever here. Now's my chance to find out more of my mysterious father. Msafiri: Is he really that mysterious? Ziana: [walking a few steps] Sort of. Leopard 1: HALT!!! Ziana and Msafiri: [Stops] Leopard 2: Are you well aware of the lands you are in? Ziana: [whispering to Msafiri] Let me handle this, my father told me how to handle this! [speaking out loud] I am the daughter of Zell! I wish to meet your King and Queen, Marina. I, we humbly ask to stay in the leopard lands for the night! Leopard 1: NO! Ziana: And you are qualified for this decision? Did the present queen give you this command? Leopard 1: [growls face to face with Ziana] Msafiri: [calmly] Step back, don't hurt her! We wan't to talk with your Queen. Leopard 2: Why should we believe you? Ziana: Well... Can we speak with Thoraciu... If you are worried of us assasinating you Queen. Leopard 1: [looks at leopard 2] Shall we? Leopard 2: Very well. Thoraciu is old but he is still standing strong! He will rip you two apart if you do anything wrong! Ziana: We won't. Leopard 2: Very well... follow me. Ziana: Thank you. [winks at Msafiri] Msafiri: [smiles at her] ~*Mountain cave*~ Leopard 1: You two wait here. [pointing at the mouth of the cave] Msafiri: Certainly. Leopard 1: I will get him. Please wait a minute. Msafiri: Well.... I was expecting a warmer welcome. [watching the leopard leave] Ziana: [shrugs] Voice in the distance: You say who's here! Daughter of Zell! I must meet at once!!! [sound of running] Ziana: Well... Msafiri: He sounds eager. Thor: [runs to them on the mouth of the cave] Ah... [smiles] I hear you are Zell's daughter... [laugh] cold one isn't he? Never gives contact for years! Ziana: Well..... Actually, he didn't send me here. Thor: Ah, I see... Let us talk about this later but first you should meet with the Queen. Ziana: You mean Marina? My father's been talking a lot about you and Marina. Thor: He did? [laugh] Too bad I couldn't meet him. Come in. [welcoming them into the cave with a gesture] Ziana: Thank you. By the way, this is my friend Msafiri. Thor: Msafiri? That sounds familiar... Do I know you? Msafiri: [worried laughter] I don't think so... Ziana: [smiles and walks into the cave travelling to the peak] Thor: Well... Here she is... [silently] Excuse me your highness. Marina: [laugh] Goodness Thor, you don't need to address me like that! So, you were saying something? Thor: Well, Zell's daughter is behind you. Marina: Zell? [turning around] [smiles] Welcome! [walks to Ziana and somehow hugs her] Ziana: Well.... I don't really know you but, I think we should before we start hugging and crying. Marina: [laughing] Nothing, you really look like Zell and not to mention the same mouth! [laugh] I'm sorry we leopards just miss him. [looking at Msafiri] Is this your consort? Ziana: Consort? Msafiri: [blush] Marina: Husband of royalty? Or something? Ziana: [shocked by the idea] No! And besides he's not royalty... Neither am I. Marina: [laugh] Oh I see. Ziana: Whatever. [blushing] Marina: So, I suppose you came here for some reason did you? Ziana: Oh, yes. Well, I was caught in a wildfire during a hunt and Msafiri here, rescued me and took me away. Now we are trying to go back to the Pride lands. And we need a place to stay for the night so we were wondering-- Marina: Of course! Anything for Zell's daughter, please, settle down anywhere, although some leopards may not approve you two being here, I will personaly see to it that you are treated fairly. Ziana: Thank you.[leave] Msafiri: [leaves with Ziana] Marina: Umm... Msafiri [before leaving], can I have a word with you? Alone? [looks at Ziana] You don't mind do you Ziana? Ziana: No, of course not! [looks at Msafiri] I'll be downstairs then. Msafiri: Ok, I won't be long. Ziana: [leave] Thor: [catching up with her] So... How's Zell? Ziana: Oh, He's fine. Thor: Like always... How did you get caught in the wildfire anyway? Ziana: Well.... Let's just say I got some issues with my dad. But knowing him he's got a good explanation. I still love him. Thor: [laugh] Issues huh? Wanna talk about it? Ziana: Nah... It's not that big and it's boring. And besides it is not that serious anyway. Thor: Whatever. So, I see you're with a prince. Ziana: What!? Thor: You mean he hasn't told you? Ziana: Who!? Thor: [quickly realizing] Nothing, must have slipped out of my mouth. Ziana: [thinking] Msafiri is a Prince!? I don't believe you! If he's a prince how come he's not in his beloved kingdom? Thor: Uhhhhh.... Msafiri: [enters the scene which is on the base of the cave] Because I wanted to leave. Ziana: [eyes widening] Is it true? Msafiri: Yes, I am a prince. I just left because I wanted to see new places, meet new people, make friends. When I met you... I'll tell you later. I am open to any questions... Anything to gain your trust. [sadly] I am sorry if I offended you or anything. Thor: [quickly knowing what to do] I guess I'll leave you two alone. Ziana: Let's take a walk outside first. Msafiri: Right... ~*Night*~ Ziana: [looking at the moon] I thought you were in a moving group? Msafiri: I was... My father lost the home to some strange lions and they made us flee. Harpuia, my father, was trying to find our lands and fight for it. We did in the end. Ziana: I see... Why were you travelling? Outside of your Pride? Msafiri: Because... I told you already, meet, find, see, adventure. Ziana: You were in a middle of saying something... About when you met me... Msafiri: Well.... When I saw you... I.... Ziana: Yes? Msafiri: I thought I could bring you back to my kingdom. Ziana: And make me your Queen? Msafiri: It turned out to be the other way around, you insisted and I thought, why not? Ziana: Hmmm... What was the name of the leader of those strange lions? Are they really that strange? Msafiri: Actually they were not strange, I just used that term because they attacked for no reason, surprised us. Ziana: So, the name of the leader is? Msafiri: Drego.... No one knew where he came from. We didn't kill him in the end. They just took their defeat and headed off to the wilderness, well they didn't accept the defeat easily, they were more like... Running away. Ziana: I see... So... You are a Prince... [frustrated] Why didn't you tell me! Msafiri: I thought you wouldn't approve. Ziana: Whatever.... [silent] No, no, no! This is all complicated! Everythings happening so fast! [lying down, head resting on her paws] First my father, Then I get caught in a wildfire, then I meet some lion who say's he is a traveller, then I negotiate with the Queen, then I find out that the traveller is a prince! Msafiri: ... My father died off long ago... I'm so sorry. Ziana: I don't know what to do! [sadly] Msafiri: [nuzzle's Ziana] Let's go to your home... I'll bring you there.. I love you Ziana: [sleepily/silently] I love you too... [licks Msafiri on the cheek] [sleeps] Msafiri: [shocked] Ziana? Ziana: [already asleep] Msafiri: Must have been sleepy... [smiles] She.... loves me... [sigh] Maybe she was just tired... I bet she didn't mean it... [sigh] Let's get you in the Cave. [carries Ziana to the cave and sets her down] ~*The next day*~ Ziana: [sleepily, still closing her eyes] [thought] Oh... What a dream... Msafiri so romantic..... Too bad it's just a dream. [opens her eyes] [surprised to see Msafiri next to her.... Too close] Msafiri!? Msafiri: Huh? [waking up] [yawn] Yes? Ziana: How did we get here? I mean, we were up at the hills right? Msafiri: Well... You mean you don't remember? Ziana: Why? What happened? Did something happen? Msafiri: Well... You could say that... Ziana: Try me! Msafiri: Would you believe that after you were saying something, I nuzzled you and as I was you licked me? Ziana: [turns around away from Msafiri] [thought] YESS!!! IT WAS NOT A DREAM!!! [turns around again] Oh... Yes I do... Msafiri: You mean you were awake? Ziana: Yeah, I think so. I thought it was a dream... Do you... really love me? [coming closer to Msafiri] Msafiri: [nuzzle] Yes... Ziana: [laugh] [nuzzle back] I thought you were... nice... Even though you shocked me enough I forgive you... Will you remind me what we did that last night? Msafiri: [licking Ziana on the muzzle] [whispers to Ziana] Just that. Ziana: [Breaks off] That's it? [laugh] Msafiri: You slept! Ziana: [laugh] Marina: [ahem] Msafiri: Oh... Sorry. Marina: So, Ziana... Do you have to leave today? Ziana: Yes Marina. Marina: I see, although I regret seeing you leave, I guess I can't stop you. [turning to Msafiri] So, I believe you told her your secret. Msafiri: Yeah... It turned out okay. Marina: Well... It's still morning, I think you should leave now, not that I'm forcing you to, you can always stay here for awhile. Thor: [enters] If you keep walking South of here, you will reach Pride Rock. Ziana: Yeah... We already know, thanks anyway. Msafiri: Thank you for your help Marina. Ziana: Yes, we really appreciate this! We will not forget it. Marina: You're welcome, come by anytime! Ziana: Bye! [leaving with Msafiri] Msafiri: So.... [looking back at the mid-mountain which was fading in the distance] Ziana: [looking back] If we run we can reach Pride Rock by noon! Msafiri: Yeah, Can you handle it? I mean it's at least forty miles away. Ziana: And if we walk we will reach there by night! Msafiri: Ok, let's run! [running] Ziana: [running along] ~*Meanwhile*~ SIMBA'S HALF:- Simba: [drinking at the water hole] [thought] Kovu... He does not belong here. Can I trust him? Zell: [walks beside him takes a drink and looks at Simba] Hey Simba... Wanna go somewhere? Simba: Where? Zell: I dunno, Anywhere. How abou tracing Kovu and Kiara, Kovu is quite mysterious... But he's friendly, do you trust him? Simba: Not exactly. Zell: [chuckle] Simba... I don't know wether to trust him or not, but if Kiara trusts him... How come you don't? Simba: I don't really know that either... Zell: Wake up and smell the Pheromones, I guess they are bound to be more than friends. Simba: I guess so... There is one problem though... Kovu is one of them... Zell: Umm... Actually no. He's not... I think. Simba: [confused] Huh? Zell: I dreamt of something involving a kidnap. Scar told Adui to steal a cub from another Pride, Scar said that he was going to be his succesor... I don't know what that means. Simba: Succesor..... Zell: Enough worry.... Let's just walk around. Watching your Royal life is too boring. I mean... I miss the old times, you were carefree, there are big arguments between us, and you weren't too serious just then. You'd better loosen up a bit, here, [shoving Simba into the water] Simba: [sputtering water out] Hey!!! [laugh] Zell: [Jumps in the water giving a splash] [laugh] Simba: You're right... I guess I do need to loosen up. Zell: [getting out of the water and shaking of the water from his mane] Come on, let's go visit some memorable places... Like the borders of the Elephant Graveard. I wan't to know what happened when the hyena's were chasing me. Simba: [laugh] [remembering the fork] Yes... Let's go ~*Back to Ziana*~ ~*Afternoon*~ Ziana: We're here! [looking past the singed ground showing Pride Rock int he distance] Msafiri: So... That is Pride Rock... I haven't seen it because of the fire. Ziana: It's amazing isn't it. Msafiri: Yeah... Ziana: [nuzzle] Let's go... Msafiri: Yes, we're almost there and I can't wait to meet Simba and Zell. Ziana: [laugh] If you're that eager, what are we waiting for? It's within our reach now within minutes! Msafiri: You sure are spirited! Keep it that way. Ziana: Yeah, let us leave. Msafiri: [Runs] Ziana: [running also] ~*Meanwhile*~ ZELL AND SIMBA'S HALF:- Zell: [sigh] The fork, brings back fun and dangerous moments. Simba: Fun? I figured you would be scared to death with those hyena's Zell: True but I found it funny in the end, I mean, I picked up stones and threw them straight at their faces, Direct hit! Simba: Really? [chuckle] I should have been there. Zell: If dad hadn't reached me in time I would have been dead. Simba: Yeah, Dad was pretty angry when he met us. He quickly ran to find you. Zell: He did? [shrugs] He's a father. Simba: [continue's waliking] I wonder if Dad has alway's been this strict. Zell: I bet not. I think he's just like you and me. Simba: Yeah, I mean, I bet he was like you, funny and sarcastic. Zell: And I bet he was just like you, Straigh forward, Adventurous and strong in heart, although you kind of had a weak heart in the beggining just like me. Simba: Meaning? Zell: Come on! [irritated + laughing] Banishment, didn't wan't to go home? Carefree life. Simba: Oh yeah... [finally stopping as they reached the Pride lands again] Zell: Ziana and Kiara, watching them grow up... It's really comforting to see them laughing. Simba: Yeah... [looking at the horizon] [notices movement] Hey, [pointing to the two distant figures] What are those? Zell: Looks, like two..... Lions? Simba: [eye's widening] You know I think it's---- Zell: ZIANA!!! [running to the figures] Simba: Ziana.... [laughs and starts trying to run after Zell who was leaving a cloud of dust every step] ~* thirty five minutes later*~ ZIANA AND ZELL'S HALF:- Ziana: [stops running] Msafiri: [stops and runs back to Ziana] What's wrong? Ziana: Nothing, I just had dust in my eyes. [rubbing it off] I'm okay now. [looks around] We are within the grass lands now! Msafiri: Yeah! So? Let's go [turning back to look at Pride Rock] Ziana: I wonder... Never mind. Msafiri: What? Ziana: Never mind... It's not important. Voice in distance: [softly] Zia.... Msafiri: Shh... Do you hear that? Ziana: Hear what? [keeps quiet] Voice in distance: Zian... Ziana: Dad? [looks around and see's Zell running towards them] DAD!!! [running towards Zell] Msafiri: [After her] Ziana: Daddy! [nuzzle] Zell: I have been waiting... [looks behind Ziana, noticing Msafiri] Who's your friend? Ziana: Oh... Dad meet Msafiri. Msafiri meet my Dad. Dad, he's the one who saved me from the fire. Msafiri: It has been a pleasure finally to meet you. Simba: [enters the scene] [cough] Zell! [rubbing dust off his eyes] You left me with a cloud of dust there! Zell: Sorry, [looks at Msafiri] glad to meet you Msafiri. Ziana: You won't believe this! You and Simba are legends! Simba: [surprised] What? Zell: Really? For what? Msafiri: Everything, travelling, fighting. Simba: [shrugs] How come the legends don't reach the Pride lands? Anyway, it's best to talk in Pride Rock. Zell: Come traveller or Msafiri isn't it? Thank you for keeping my daughter company. Ziana: [while Zell and Simba was not looking] [licks Msafiri and comes closer and whispers] Don't be too scared. [chuckle] You are too formal. Msafiri: [whispers back] I can't help it! I want to make a good impression you know! Ziana: Hey, a good impression for dad is humor, just like yourself. Msafiri: Right.... Zell: [slows down to walk beside Msafiri] So, I thank you for rescuing my daughter, I am ever grateful. Msafiri: Don't mention it. Zell: [sigh] Can't believe I'm getting formal again. [remembering his politeness with Selena's Pride the first time they met] Msafiri: [laugh] It's ok with me... I really admire you... How did you manage to survive three days without food or water and travel more than forty miles only as a cub? Zell: [laugh] So... You've heard about that. [chuckles] I don't know, I just kept walking and walking and walking and fainting and kept on walking. Any more questions? Msafiri: [laugh] Sorry I asked, anyway now that you do mention it, Marina-- Zell: Marina? You passed through the Leap lands right? Msafiri: Right, Marina told me that a band of lions are heading this way to attack. I don't know who and neither does Ziana, she told me to tell you this. Zell: [remembering his dream] There's no stopping them. They will arrive around midnight three day's from now. I am afraid the group leader is Drego. Msafiri: DREGO! [snarl] [stops] You know him? Zell: [stops also making Simba and Ziana stop too] Yes, he was my rival. I dreamt he came here and... [whispers to Msafiri] Perhaps I will talk about it to you tonight. Msafiri: [nods] Ziana: Is everything ok? Simba: You all right Zell? Zell: Yeah... Msafiri: Uhhh, something in my throat. [everyone starts walking again] Zell: Ana! Ana: [going out of the cave] Yes? Zell: Ziana's back! Ana: [surprised] [happily] Where! [looks behind Zell] Ziana! [runs to Ziana and nuzzles her] [crying] You're okay! Ziana: [nuzzling back] [crying] I miss you too mom Zell: [smiling] I knew you were going to come back one day. Ziana: [smiling] Thank you dad... Mom, meet Msafiri, he's the one who saved my life! Ana: [smiling at Msafiri] Thank you! [breaks from the nuzzle] You are welcome in this Pride, please stay if you wish. Msafiri: [bows] I would be honored... However there is one problem... Zell: Which is? Msafiri: [Looks at Ziana hopefully] Ziana: [understands] Daddy... Msafiri is a prince. Zell: What! Simba: Really! Which.... Why? Msafiri: Ummm... I told Ziana everything, I guess I will tell it to you in a short way. Here goes... I left in search of adventure. I left my Pride with regret but I kept on going into new lands and meeting different Prides. I found Ziana in a fire and rescued her, she was unconscious so I decided to bring her to my Pride. Zell: .....Wow.... Well.... your highness... If you were planning to bring Ziana to your pride... Why did you bring her here? Msafiri: I'm not that kind of guy, besides if I want her trust I should trust her too and decided to meet you. I was quite surprised to hear that you, a legend, is the father of Ziana. Ana: legend? Zell: Long story... So... Ziana... Do you mind if I bring Msafiri for a walk? I would like to learn more from him. Ziana: Is it alright with you Msafiri? Msafiri: Sure. Zell: Great, it's settled then. See you Simba! Ana, I'll be back later. Take care Ziana. Ana: Stay out of trouble! Ziana: Bye daddy! Zell: [leavng to the grasslands with Msafiri] ~*sunset*~ Zell: So, Msafiri... What do you look in for my daughter? Msafiri: Uhhh... Zell: [laugh] Don't worry, I know it's personal, but knowing Ana and my past, I bet you two have been... Well, in love? Msafiri: [blush] You can... Yeah Zell: So, do you plan to take her to you kingdom and make her your Queen? Msafiri: I don't know... I mean, we were staying together for four days, fell in love last night and I don't know if I can go back to my kingdom, I mean... It's been three months since I left.. And I am not sure if my people will accept me. Besides, things have been happening so fast, as Ziana says, we can't make that decision yet. Zell: [inhales, exhales] I know, I've been through a pretty similar thing. But you are the king, they will be happy to see you have a mate in life and now they have a Queen. Am I correct? Msafiri: Are you suggesting I should get married to Ziana? Zell: Well, it seems like destiny don't you think? I think you were travelling around Serengeti because you felt lonely am I right? Msafiri: You're sharp. Zell: [laugh] Guessing is my specialty! Like you said, you were travelling to different places, different Prides and meet different Lions. I think, you were looking for someone special, you found Ziana and instantly you liked her, maybe love at first sight! You may not know it but I think you left because you wanted to love someone. Correct? Msafiri: You have kind of read my past already. Zell: [laugh] What do you find special in Ziana? Msafiri: Actually, she's just like you... Adventurous, funny, smart. You taught her how to run properly, I'm impressed. I find her... I can't explain it, it, it's like... Wow. Zell: [laugh] Right so when you saw her you felt like.... Wow? Msafiri: Yeah. [laugh] Zell: So, about Drego... How did you know him? Msafiri: He chased away my Pride out of our lands and he claimed it for himself. Zell: He did!? He's different, I met him in my travels also... [thinking] He was young then, not yet fully grown just like me... The first time we met, he challenged me to a duel, I beat him and he held a grudge on me for quite some time... I'm afraid he hasn't eased his hate towards me... If the message of Marina is true, that they are planning to attack Pride Rock... I gues they will leave until I am dead... Msafiri: [standing in front of Zell, face to face] I will help you and as far as possible, I will help you. Zell: [smiles] Thank you... But this is my battle... If you beat him yourself, he will probably run before getting killed, get another pride and launch another attack to kill me. [smiles] Well, I can't live long anyway... Either I die of age, or by him... He is a strong lion. Msafiri: I will help you to the end, I will be ever loyal to such a legend. Zell: [laugh] Did you know that you are in a higher rank than me? You are a king, you can control me, a little bit. [laugh] Come on, it's dark, let's go back to Pride Rock. Ziana might be waiting for you... Actually I will walk around a little bit, meet you there! Bye! Msafiri: Yeah... [watching Zell running] Bye. Simba: Father... I am lost... Kovu is one of them, Scar's heir, how can I accept him? [looking up at the stars] Nala: Simba? What are you doing? Simba: I was seeking counsels from the great kings. Nala: [chuckles] Did they help? Simba: Silent as stars. Zell: [comes into scene] Seeking counsel? For what? Simba: Well, Kovu is one of them. Zell: [looking at Nala who is looking back at him] [laugh] Nala? Are we the only ones who know? Nala: I guess so, [looking back at Simba] Simba, you expect too much from the path chosen. Perhaps Kovu does not. Simba: [confused + Surprised] Huh? How did yo-- Zell: Come on! Can't you see it? They are in love! Geez, when I saw you two in the jungle I didn't need to ask! Nala: Yeah [chuckle] Try and get to know him. Simba: [feeling stupid] Yeh... I guess I should. Did you see the whole thing on what we did? [looking at Zell] Zell: Parts of it, the funny part is that Timon and Pumbaa were trying to sabotage it. They didn't want you to leave. The last phrase I caught with them talking was... "His carefree days with us are history, in short our pal is doomed" and they burst into tears as always. Simba: [laugh] Nala: I think we'd better go now, if Kiara see's us... Simba: Right, I don't want to make the same mistake. Zell: Yeah, let's go, it seems that Kovu's leaving. [walking to Pride Rock] Simba: [takes one look at Kiara and Kovu and leaves side by side with Nala] ~*Meanwhile*~ MSAFIRI'S HALF:- Ziana: Hello! So [playfully] back already Msafiri? Msafiri: Yup. Ziana: So? Where's dad? Msafiri: He should be back any minute. Ziana: How did the talk go? Msafiri: It was fine... [thinking of the predictions of Zell being killed] I guess... Ziana: Why, what did you talk about? Msafiri: You, him, me and all those stuff. Ziana: Him? What about him? Msafiri: Ummm.... I shouldn't tell you this. Ziana: [now serious] Is something wrong with dad? Msafiri: Well.... Your dad has a bad encounter with Drego, you know, the one who took my lands. Ziana: [eyes widening] Really? And? Msafiri: [taking a deep breath] I shouldn't tell you. Ziana: Please, tell me, I won't be angry with you or dad. Msafiri: Trust me, you won't be angry. Ziana: Try me! [testily] Msafiri: Are you sure? Ziana: Positive! Msafiri: Don't say I didn't warn you! [takes another deep breath] This will hurt you a bit.... Zell, your dad fears he might be assasinated by Drego, he doesn't show it but I can tell. He said he dreamt about this event once. Ziana: [silent] No..... no... Msafiri: Ziana please! Don't feel bad! Ziana: Is losing a father a good thing? [almost in the merge of tears] Msafiri: Ziana, [nuzzling her and wipes off her tears] I will try to protect him. Ziana: [crying] I don't want to lose dad... Please protect him... Msafiri: I will... [nuzzles her again] Shhh.... Don't cry... I love you. I admire your father, and your uncle... Please don't cry.... Ziana: [sobs] Thank you.... Zell: [enters] [ahem] Am I disturbing something? Ziana: were you listening to that? Zell: Yeah... Thank you Msafiri... I was planning to tell her myself... I found it hard to break it out to her... Ziana, please understand... If I die in this battle... I will always be in your heart, I will watch over you, I will protect you. [walks to Ziana and nuzzles her] Msafiri will take good care of you. Ziana: [breaks away] Dad... when will this happen? [sobs] Zell: tommorow, midnight... I had another dream that Zira, another lioness will lead a band attacking Simba. Her son Adui will get to me. Him and Drego will try to fight who get's to kill me. Ziana... Don't tell your mother. I don't want her to worry. Ziana: I won't tell her. Msafiri: Whatever you do, Zell... Don't die. Everyone looks up to you. Even the leopards trust you. [thought] Leopards! I must get them before tommorow night! [thought] Is it just me or when Ziana and me talk important stuff we get interupted? Zell: Thank you, I will go to sleep now. [goes into the cave and sleeps] Msafiri: Ziana, your father is so well informed. Ziana: I know... Msafiri: You have to sleep. It's been a tough day getting you back to Pride Rock and you have heard too much from me and your father. You have to rest, tommorrow might turn out alright. Go to bed. Ziana: Yes... Perhaps I will. Good night, Msafiri. [leaves and enters the cave] Msafiri: [enters the cave] Simba: [goes out of the cave, seeing Kovu and Kiara arrive] Kiara: goodnight Kovu Kovu: goodnight... [settles behind a rock] Simba: [looks thoughtfully] Hmmm... It looks chilly tonight... Why don't you come in? Kovu: [smiles] [stands up] Thank you. ~*To be continued*~