Scar came to a
river that divided the Pride Lands from a place called the Outlands. It was a
place for all outcasts and exiles to live. There wasn’t much grass or trees
there; barely even water. There were plenty of rock settlements though. In some
rocks, Scar had found a den for himself. He had come out now to hunt along the
Pride Lands’ borders. As he crossed a fallen log into the Pride Lands, he
thought bitterly back to his early life. As a cub, he was never really noticed.
His father, Ahadi, spent so much time with Mufasa that Scar felt he wasn’t
truly a prince. What started off as simple hurt and jealousy soon grew into
hate as he became an adolescent. He remembered the time he went to his brother
to try and talk things over… Mufasa had answered by giving him his scar. That
also became his new name. From that point on, he’d hated Mufasa with the utmost
hate. It had caused him to actually kill his own brother. That wasn’t the end
though: his reign as king was horrible. His number one mistake in the great
plan was the hyenas. If only he’d known there were so many… He had needed their
help but he couldn’t ask for it with nothing in return. Everything had gone
wrong. The only two good things about his reign were that he was in
control, and Jamba. That lioness had been kind to him and tried to lift his
spirits during that hard time. If only he could see her again…. She probably
would have left with him if she had been nearby when he had escaped the hyenas
and the fire.
Now, he was
utterly alone. He didn’t mind too much since he was naturally quiet, yet
everyone needs someone to be near. With a sigh, he shook away these thoughts
and focused on the task before him. A small group of gazelle was nearby,
grazing. He concentrated his attention on a small female and snuck close. When
the time was right, he sprung forward with speed and agility. The bewildered
gazelle was down in seconds as the others scattered away.
Simba stood
outside the den of Pride Rock. Before him was half of his pride with angry
faces. At the front was Zira. She was thin with brown fur, a pale stripe on her
head, and red eyes. In fury, she spoke. “Scar is gone because of you!”
“I did what I
must.” The king replied, firmly.
“He was a good
king!” Zira urged.
“He was an evil
king!” Simba shot back. “He murdered my father and nearly succeeded in killing
me. He was a liar and a manipulator.”
“That may be
true, but I don’t recall you being there during his reign. You weren’t there to
see him when he tried! Instead you were in the jungle, trying to hide
from past and future.”
“I had my own
problems to solve… problems that he caused in the first place!”
“If he’d
succeeded in having you killed, we’d still be in a bad situation. The hyenas
were the problem. They overran the Pride Lands, leaving us no food. Scar should
not have made a bargain with them. If they weren’t there, his reign would have
been just as good as Mufasa’s!”
Simba growled
low. “I’ve had enough of this, Zira! Scar is gone. What are you trying to
prove? If you’re angry at me and refuse to obey my command, then you need to
leave.” Grunts came from the lionesses and Simba added, “All of you must
go if you are with Zira.”
“Don’t think
you’ve got rid of us for good, your highness.” Zira said bitterly and
sarcastically. Then she turned and started walking away, the others following.
Simba watched
them as they began their departure. He took note that Zira’s cubs were being
taken with them. The two older ones were Nuka and Vitani. The youngest, still
an infant being carried, was Kovu. Simba had always been somewhat suspicious
about Kovu since his name meant ‘scar’ but if he truly was Scar’s son, Zira
would’ve kept him hidden. As he watched them leave, he caught sight of Jamba.
Why was she leaving with them, he thought. Jamba had always been loyal to
Mufasa… She stopped suddenly at the back of the line and looked over her
shoulder at Simba. For a moment, the two just stared at each other. With a look
of sorrow, Jamba turned back and continued following the others. Simba’s mouth
was parted slightly with his eyebrows knit. Why she had left his pride, he
couldn’t understand. He never would find out the reason.
Scar lapped up
some water then lifted his head back up. He’d finished his kill and left the
rest as carrion. Pausing, he stretched his muscular body and yawned. Then he
turned back up the riverbank to cross back over to the Outlands when something
caused his ears to perk. He glanced into the Pride Lands, his eyes searching.
They came to rest on objects moving his way. He could hear their voices and it
seemed he recognized some of them. Knitting his brow, he called out to them
with a roar. The whole group stopped for a moment before a roar sounded in
reply. Scar began moving forward towards them as they came to him. Once they
came face-to-face with one another, Scar recognized this group as part of the
pride. All the lionesses, when they looked on him, froze in their tracks. Eyes
were wide and mouths hung open. Scar felt a bit awkward but covered it well.
“Why are you all out here?” he asked.
Zira answered.
“Simba has exiled us to the Outlands… My- … My lord, how are you-“
“I’ll tell you
the tale soon enough.” Scar cut her off. He looked over all the lionesses
present until his eyes landed on one and remained there. His mouth fell open
slightly as he stared at her. It was Jamba. She was at the back of the group,
her head hanging. For a moment, she looked up at him then quickly diverted her
eyes. “Jamba?” he said softly. She slowly raised her eyes up to meet his.
Scar’s gaze softened and he walked past the others to her. No words were
exchanged for what seemed hours until Jamba slowly fell to her belly and
repeatedly kissed Scar’s paws.
“My lord,
you’re back!” she cried, tears beginning to roll down her cheeks.
Scar quickly
bent down and nudged her muzzle with his nose, causing her to rise back to her
paws. “Please…” he said gently. “None of that is necessary.” For a moment, he
thought he felt tears welling up within him.
Jamba looked
into his eyes. “No, but it is… my king.” And she bowed down once more. The
others followed her lead this time. Scar looked about him at the reverent
lionesses. They saw him as their king! True respect and admiration was being
shown to him by others, not only Jamba! He stood there for a moment, not sure
what to do.
“Rise.” He
finally stated. All the lionesses stood up. “You have been exiled and desire
the rights to the Pride Lands once again….” And he let a little smirk pop into
his mouth. “And so I shall return them to you.”
All the
lionesses smiled and roared in triumphant unison. Scar looked to Jamba once
again and smiled warmly at her. This time, she held his gaze and returned the
smile. After their moment of celebration, Scar led them across the river into
the Outlands. He showed them to a certain rock settlement which was also near a
giant termite mound. “This is where you all shall live. It is the closest to
food and water, well protected, and close enough to the borders yet a safe
distance away.” He turned and motioned out in the Outlands. “I live farther in
the Outlands for my own reasons and I would advise against any attempt to
follow me.”
The lionesses
looked to one another and back to Scar. Their faces showed that they wouldn’t
dare to do such a thing. Zira took a step forward. “Don’t worry, your majesty.
We respect you and fear you. Anyone who has the guts to go against your word
will pay.”
Scar nodded
approvingly to her words. He then paused before continuing on. “Now I’m sure
you all desire to know the tale of how I escaped the hyenas. Well, I tell you
now: I scaled the cliff I fell over and snuck down the back of Pride Rock.”
The lionesses
waited, expecting more. When nothing else was said, they glanced at one
another. “That’s it?” one inquired.
Scar nodded
once, casually.
“But we saw
the hyenas topple you over.” Said another lioness.
“So they did.”
Scar said, his voice held at a normal speaking pitch. “The fire also closed in
quickly. It burned away most of the hyenas, giving me the upper paw. I just
threw aside the ones atop of me and lunged for the cliff before the fire did
any fatal damage to me.”
Some of the
lionesses nodded, comprehensive to Scar’s words. One lioness, though, spoke up.
“And no one saw you escape the Pride Lands?”
“No one.” Scar
replied, coolly. “If someone had seen me, Simba would be hunting me
endlessly right this very minute.” There was a pause of silence. “So if there
are no further questions, I must be off. Jamba, you come with me.” he motioned
to Jamba. Then to the others, he said, “Oh, and you may hunt along the borders
of the Pride Lands. Just don’t get caught or you’ll be left to Simba’s
judgment.” With that, he turned and headed off into the Outlands with Jamba
following. It felt so wonderful to be a king again. This time, there were no
hyenas and everyone respected him. This time, he thought, I will be successful.
Zira watched
the two disappear into the hills of the Outlands. A look of discontent covered
her face. “Why does he favor Jamba?” she growled. “She’s too quiet and doesn’t
have the killer instincts like the rest of us.” Murmurs broke out among the
lionesses. “Bah! It doesn’t matter!” Zira hissed, turning to the dens. “Soon
he’ll see she’s worthless.” Carefully she bent down and took a gentle hold
around Kovu, carrying him into a den.
Scar led Jamba
to his den within the heart of the Outlands. He stepped inside, then turned to
face her. She followed after and stood before him. For a moment, the two only
gazed into the other’s eyes. Scar finally broke the silence. “It is good to see
you’re well.”
Jamba smiled.
“The same to you, your highness.”
“I… I never
thought I’d…. see you again.” Scar said a bit hesitantly. His emotional side
began to show, Jamba sensed.
“Nor did I.”
She responded, just as nervously. “…. I’d left in sorrow, thinking you to be
gone for good.” Her eyes focused on the stone floor as she spoke quietly. Scar
slowly glanced at her, watching her speak. “Simba couldn’t believe the fact
that you’d been denied essential attention all your life nor the fact that
you’d tried to right your wrong at one time.” She paused, feeling like she
might cry. “He wouldn’t believe that you had a right to be the way you were.
The seed of hate had been planted in you at too early of an age…. It was
something that could’ve been prevented.” Jamba paused again, tears rolling down
her cheeks. “You only needed someone to love you and care for you…. If Simba
hadn’t come back, I could’ve been the one to help you. It tore me apart to
think you had lost that chance.”
Scar thought
her words over in his mind. She had just admitted her love for him. Love is
more precious than respect, he thought. Her tears were for him. “Jamba?… You
truly do love me?”
The lioness
before him looked up with tear-filled eyes into his. “More than anything, my
king!” she urged. “If you desired me to take my life right this minute, I would
do so.” And she raised a paw with extended claws to her wrist.
Scar quickly
pushed her paws down, about to cry himself. “No, don’t do that.” He said,
hushed. Leaning in close to her, he pressed her head against his chest with his
chin. She quickly leaned back against him, burying her face in his mane. The
two held their embrace for a long time before Scar pulled back a bit. “If you desired
one thing, what would it be?… I am king and will give you anything.”
Jamba looked
up into his eyes, a single tear rolling down her soft cheek. “My lord… I only
desire you.”
Inside, Scar
was a bit surprised. He looked back into her eyes and saw only love and
tenderness. She was being completely honest with him. With a warm smile, he
replied to her. “So you shall have me.” he purred gently. A smile crossed
Jamba’s face as he said the words. Leaning forward, Scar planted a firm kiss on
her ebony lips. They held their muzzles locked together for a long time until
Scar gently forced her onto her back.
During the
next few months, the Outlander pride survived in their harsh environment. Kovu
had gone from infant to young cub and possessed some wonderful features. He was
strong and fair; quick to learn and convincing. Scar had taken note of these
characteristics on his visits to the pride. With a plan growing in his mind, he
instructed Zira to have him trained as a vicious fighter. Kovu was to be the
one to overtake the Pride Lands for him. In the meantime, Kiara was born to
Simba and Nala as future ruler of the Pride Lands. Their son, Tanabi, had been
stolen away from them in the night and nothing of him had been seen since then.
Scouts from the Outlander pride had discovered this news and brought it back to
Zira. “This is too perfect!” she exclaimed. “My Kovu will take the Pride Lands
through Simba’s daughter!”
“It is a good
plan.” The scout agreed.
“I must tell
Scar.” Zira thought out loud. “He should be pleased with such an idea… Only…”
and she snarled. “Jamba, alone, can approach his den.”
“Shall I send
for her?” another lioness requested.
Zira nodded.
“Yes. Tell her to bring Scar at once. We’ve discovered some vital information.”
“Yes ma’am!”
the lioness turned and trotted off. She soon found Jamba headed in an odd
direction. “M’lady!” she called.
Jamba turned
quickly and faced the lioness. “What is it?”
“Zira requests
you send for Scar. We’ve discovered some vital information.”
“Very well.
I’ll go to him shortly.”
The lioness
nodded and went back in the direction of the others.
When Jamba was
sure the lioness was gone, she continued on her way. She came to a small den
with trees surrounding it. Walking in, she nudged a pile of grass and leaves.
Underneath was a ball of light tan fur. It was her cub. She had been careful to
keep her cub hidden from the others. Even Scar didn’t know of his own
offspring. Jamba picked up the tiny creature and gently trotted out into the
Outlands to Scar’s den. Once there, she spotted her mate lying on his side, his
upper body sitting up though. He smiled as she entered. “Jamba, my dear,” he
said, then coughed. He’d been coughing badly over the past few months. Jamba
feared it was a sickness caused by the smokes of the fires he’d escaped when
Simba first returned. He coughed once more before he spoke again. “What brings
you here today?”
Jamba gently
set the cub into Scar’s arms. A puzzled look crossed his face momentarily
before he understood. “I named her Keilah.” She said, smiling.
“Keilah…” Scar
repeated. “She’s beautiful!” He bent his muzzle down and gave his daughter a
tender, loving stroke of his tongue. A purr emitted from his throat also as he
held the small cub. Jamba smiled bigger. She was happy that Scar was pleased
with his offspring. After a moment, the smile on his face disappeared. “Jamba,”
and he coughed again. “I must tell you this now…. My time is short.” He looked
up at her with sad eyes. Her eyes reflected the sadness.
“What?” she
said in disbelief.
“I won’t be
here much longer. The wounds from my escape have not healed. These cuts and
scars have become infected or reopened easily.” He coughed again. “My breathing
has changed and affected me too…”
Jamba shook
her head, fighting back tears. She crouched down beside her mate and nuzzled
his face. “No…”
“I’m afraid
so.” He replied quietly. For a moment, he was silent. “Jamba, I need you to be
sure that our daughter mates Kovu and their son becomes the new king.”
“Their son?”
Scar coughed,
then nodded. “Yes, their son.”
“How do you
know?”
“I can sense
it. As words of reassurance, you have protected our descendents from being
spotted by others as my blood.”
Jamba knit her
brow. “What do you mean?”
“Look at
Keilah,” he motioned, then coughed. “She looks nothing like me. Her son will
not look like me nor Kovu… I know it.” Having faith in her mate, Jamba nodded.
A tear trickled down her cheek and Scar quickly licked it away. “Don’t cry, my
dear.” He smiled.
“I don’t want
you to be gone forever.” Jamba trembled.
“I won’t…. I
only go to be in the stars.” And he nuzzled her face tenderly. “I will still be
here to watch you and Keilah.”
Jamba sniffled
and nuzzled him back, tears streaming down her face. “I love you, Scar.” She
whispered.
He coughed
lightly once more and leaned his head against his mate’s. “I love you too,
Jamba…. Thank you…” and his eyes closed.
Jamba closed
her eyes also, knowing his spirit had just left his body. She felt the weight
of his head against hers and she slowly lowered her head so his could lay
against his paws. Carefully, she took Keilah from his arms and backed away. Her
vision blurred by tears, she turned out of the den. Unable to control herself,
she set the cub down and collapsed to her belly sobbing. A tiny cry came from
Keilah as she sensed her mother’s grief. Jamba quickly gathered herself
together with all her strength and stood up. She carefully pushed a large rock
up against the den entrance. Turning, she went to another rock and pushed it
against the den entrance. Taking several more, she piled the rocks as a door to
keep unwanted visitors out. She placed the last rock and stepped back to look.
It was no longer a den, but a tomb. A royal majesty laid to rest within the
darkness. Jamba slowly bowed once and whispered, “Farewell, my lord.” The she
picked up Keilah and carefully hurried back to the pride.
Upon arrival,
everyone stared at her and the bundle in her mouth. She slowly walked along,
avoiding accusing glances. Almost immediately she found Zira. Gingerly she set
Keilah down in a safe spot on the ground. “Zira,” she spoke quietly, her voice
quavering. “He’s gone…. Scar has left this world.”
Zira’s eyes
flew open and her jaw hung low. “Gone?” Her tone was one of amazement.
Jamba nodded.
“I covered the door to his den as a burial.”
Everyone bowed
their head or diverted their eyes. The atmosphere was sad and empty. “What will
we do now?” one lioness sighed.
“Scar spoke to
me before his spirit passed on.” Said Jamba. “He told me that Kovu was to
become my daughter’s mate and their son would reclaim the Pride Lands.”
Everyone
looked at Jamba in confusion, Zira particularly. “My Kovu is to be betrothed to
your daughter?” she asked, less than happy.
Jamba nodded.
“Yes. Scar specifically told me.”
One lioness
stepped forward. “Since when did you have a daughter?” Murmurs from the others
followed the question.
Jamba started to become very uneasy. “She
is Scar’s offspring. I kept her a secret until the time was right to present
her to Scar. I didn’t know he was dying.”
Several
lionesses gasped and the murmurings became louder. Jamba shifted uncertainly. Zira
stood motionless, anger welling up inside her. She then spoke, an idea in her
head. “How certain are you that this cub is Scar’s?”
Everyone
stopped talking and turned to Zira. Jamba looked at her with a worried face. “I
asure you, Zira, this cub is our king’s.”
“Strange,”
Zira said, glancing at Keilah. “She looks nothing like Scar. How could she be
his? How do we know she’s not Simba’s?”
The look on
Jamba’s face was a look of hurt and pleading. A tear rolled down her cheek.
“She is Scar’s, I am positive. I left Simba’s pride because I loved Scar
and followed him.”
“That may be
true, but we have no way of knowing who’s cub this truly is.” Zira took a step
forward. “You were the only one there when he died. How are we to trust your
word?”
“Why would I
lie about something like this?”
“Perhaps you
want your daughter to be someone of importance and have a place in royalty.”
Zira’s eyebrows lowered and her voice grew more forceful. “We have no way to be
sure of your words. Therefore, we follow the original plan for Kovu to retake
the Pride Lands.”
“No!” Jamba
cried. “You can’t-“
Zira slapped
her with a clawed paw. “Scar is gone now and you have made it clear to us that
we can’t trust you. My son was chosen by Scar to fulfill a duty and so he
shall!” She turned as if to walk off while Jamba slowly stood back up. “I
suggest you leave now before more harm comes to you… or perhaps your little
abomination.”
Jamba quickly
crouched over Keilah in a protective stance. “No!” she cried out, shaking her
head. “Don’t hurt her…. I’ll leave.” And she gingerly picked up Keilah, turning
to go. She saw in the faces of the others fear and reverence towards Zira. Her
eyes sadly turned to the road ahead of her.
Zira glared at
her as she started walking away. “And if you come back, we’ll kill you.” She
growled low before continuing about her way.
Time passed
over the Pride Lands as well as the Outlands. Kiara had grown into a beautiful
young lioness still with a cubbish nature. Kovu grew stronger and more
deceitful, trained to hate Simba. His time was to come soon…. the time when he
would enter the Pride Lands and claim the throne through trickery. Keilah’s
time was coming soon also. Jamba had taken her daughter from both Pride Lands
and Outlands to be hidden in the mountains. During all that time, Jamba taught
Keilah of who her father was and what he’d gone through in life. Keilah was
taught how to be deceiving and a seductress. Jamba told her of the importance
to mate Kovu. Keilah’s son must be the one to reclaim the throne for Scar. With
all this knowledge in her mind, Keilah eagerly awaited the day when she would
hunt down this Kovu and return honor to her father. She knew how her mother
thought of Zira too. In turn, Keilah too hated Zira. “A wicked, traitorous
lioness she is!” Jamba would say. “If I ever had a chance, I’d rip her apart.”
Keilah hated to see her mother so hurt and angry. One day, she would make her
mother so proud that she wouldn’t be able to think of what Zira had done. Soon…
in time…
It was
nighttime, the moon and stars shining brightly. Keilah sat atop a cliff at the
summit of a mountain. She sat, staring into the sky with bright green eyes.
This was something she did since cub-hood every night. As she stared at the
stars, she would try to guess which one was Scar. Tonight she was especially
distressed. Speaking aloud as she always did, she called to her king. “Father,”
her voice was hushed but pleading. “I’m frightened… I’ve never been afraid of
anything. But tonight I sit trembling before you. Tomorrow is when I go to
fulfill your words.” Then she paused and looked to the ground below her paws.
“But I am fearful that I may ruin everything…. Send me comfort and peace of
heart. I desire to make you proud… but I cannot do so with so much fear inside
of me.” A tear fell from her cheek to the stone she sat on. For a moment she
sat in shame, afraid to lift her face to the sky.
“Keilah.” A
voice called quietly.
The young
lioness’ ears turned back at the sound and her head turned to follow the source
of the voice. Her eyes spotted a ghostly figure of a lion before her. He was
strong in build with a magnificent black mane, a dark brown pelt, and stunning
green eyes. As she looked into his eyes, she took note of a scar across this
left eye. “Who are you?” she asked fearfully.
“Someone who
loves you very much and wants you to have faith in yourself.” The ghostly
figure replied, smiling warmly. “Keilah, I am your father, Scar.” Keilah’s eyes
widened and her mouth hung open. “I’ve heard your cry tonight and bring you
comfort.”
“You…. You’re
my father?” Keilah asked, her eyes tearing up again.
The form of
Scar nodded. “I’ve been watching you ever since my spirit left this world to be
in the stars. You have made me very proud so far. You will overcome whatever
comes your way.”
“How can you
be so sure?” Keilah asked, tears streaming down her face. “What if I fail?”
Scar took a
step forward. “Have no fear! I know you will succeed… I can sense it. I’ve
sensed it from the day I laid eyes on you.”
Keilah came
forward and laid a paw against Scar’s. Strangely, it touched his paw as if he
were there in flesh. Smiling, she quickly pressed against him and nuzzled his
mane. “I wish you could come with me.” she said, her voice shaky.
Scar smiled
tenderly and nuzzled her back. His voice was calm and gentle as he whispered
his last words to her. “Have no fear… my daughter…” Then he closed his eyes and
slowly vanished into the night air.
Keilah opened
her eyes to see that the image of her father was now gone. She looked up at the
sky and caught sight of a twinkling star. With a smile, she said, “You’ve taken
away my fear. Tomorrow, I shall make you very proud.”
The sun
started to shed its first bits of light on the horizon as Keilah emerged from
the den. She inhaled the fresh morning air and looked out across the mountains.
The Pride Lands were just beyond. She gave one last glance behind her to
Jamba’s sleeping form before she padded away. I must find Kovu, she thought.
I’m sure he must be surveying the Pride Lands before his initial advance. She
thought over in her head how she might deceive him but couldn’t decide how it
should be done. She finally figured she’d have to take it as it came. She had
never met Kovu before and therefore didn’t know what to expect as a response.
Focusing more on just finding him, she set paws onto the grass of the Pride
Lands. “Showtime…” she muttered to herself before trotting ahead.
She figured it
best to scout near the borders of the Pride Lands to the Outlands. Perhaps she
could catch Kovu as he first entered. As the sun peeked over the horizon,
Keilah sat among a small grassland forest with her eyes focused on the Divided
River. Just as she had hoped, she caught sight of a dark figure crossing the
log over the river. She smirked and slowly made her way out of the brush. He
was a good distance away from her so she had a chance to think of a plan. As
his figure drew nearer, an idea came to her. She sat beneath a tree and
pretended to be resting when he came close. At his presence, she feigned
surprise. “Who are you?” she asked, jumping to all paws.
Startled by her
presence, Kovu answered unsteadily. “Uh… just a passerby.”
“What business
have you in these lands?” Keilah pushed, taking a step forward. She noticed
that Kovu had beautiful green eyes and a rich dark mane. His pelt was a healthy
golden brown shade and it clung to his muscles, making him very desirous to the
eye.
Kovu paused at
her words. There wasn’t supposed to be anyone out today, namely by the borders.
It was the day of preparation for Princess Kiara’s first hunt. This lioness
must be lying. “What business do I have? What business do you have here?
You have the look of a Pride Lander yet you seem to have forgotten your pride
today.”
“In what way?”
Keilah made her voice sound convincing.
“They are all
preparing for the ceremony tomorrow when the princess will become an adult.”
And he smirked.
Keilah smirked
back and walked close to Kovu’s face. “And a passerby would know this?”
Kovu’s smirk
slowly faded. “Who are you?”
“Just a
passerby… same as you.” And she walked along his side, her tail brushing under
his neck seductively. A purr emitted from her throat and she walked behind him
back to his front. He took this moment to glance over her body. She was a
beautiful tan color with stunning green eyes. Her pelt was healthy and shining
especially against her muscular build. She was very attractive, Kovu thought.
Keilah stood in front of him and smiled. “So who are you? Do you have a name?”
“My name is
Kovu.” He replied, lightening up slightly. “And yours?”
“Keilah.” She
said, grinning.
“Well, Keilah,
what are you doing out here? You’re obviously not a part of Simba’s pride.”
“No, I’m not.”
She agreed. “I’m just a girl looking for a good time.”
Kovu smirked
again. “And I’m the perfect target?”
“Aww, I
wouldn’t quite say ‘target’… but you are perfect for what I need.”
Kovu raised
his eyebrows and grinned. “Really now?”
Keilah grinned
and turned towards a small forest nearby. She glanced over her shoulder. “It
will be worth your time… I promise.” And she continued on slowly. Kovu watched
her for a moment: she looked perfect. He knew he desired her greatly. Her smell
was strong… How could he pass this up? A little fun never hurt anyone, he
thought. Smiling evilly, he followed after her into the forest. Keilah rolled
onto her side and looked up at Kovu as he entered the brush. This was not her
first time. Jamba had her practice on many others in a certain manner. This was
the full deal. She purred loudly as Kovu gently lowered himself over her body.
The rest came as only one thought: pleasure.
That night,
they rested from the day’s earlier events. Once Keilah was sure that Kovu was
fast asleep, she quietly snuck away. She made sure to wear him out. Her job had
been done well. With a grin, she followed her trail back through the Pride
Lands to the mountains. From that time on, she never saw Kovu again. Kovu also
never mentioned Keilah. It was only one time of pleasure and then back to
normal. While Keilah carried a cub within her, Kovu had entered the Pride Lands
again. This time, he had saved Kiara from a set up fire in the Pride Lands. He
had joined Simba’s pride and soon fell in love with Kiara. It was through them
that the two prides were reunited instead of destroyed. Once things had settled
down, the pair mated and gave birth to a daughter. This cub was to be the future
ruler.
As she was
growing to be a queen, Keilah’s son was growing to be another deceiver. He was
named Shinda. As Scar had foretold, Shinda did not resemble him. Instead,
Shinda wore a tannish pelt and a dark brown mane. His eyes followed Scar’s and
Keilah’s as green. He was every bit as cunning as his mother and grandfather.
Keilah taught him young how to trick others and twist their words around. She
also taught him physically as best she could. Neither of them knew which skill
would be needed more: brains or strength. The number one thing she stressed on
him though was that Simba was evil. Simba was the one who aided in Scar’s
dying. Jamba taught Shinda all about Scar and his last words to her. She was
the one responsible for his mental being while Keilah pushed more on the
physical side of training. Shinda grew stronger every day and soon reached the
age of adolescence. It was now his time to fulfill his grandfather’s command.
The day came
for Shinda to leave home and start the long road to getting the throne. He
nuzzled and licked his grandmother goodbye and promised her that he’d succeed.
He then turned out of the cave into the night air. His mother sat some distance
away. Quietly padding up to her, he gently nudged her shoulder. “Hey.” He
purred.
Keilah turned
and smiled. The two nuzzled for several minutes. “You must go now, my son.” She
said quietly, sadness in her voice.
“Yes…” Shinda
paused, not sure what to say next.”… Don’t be scared, Mother.” He finally said,
rubbing his head against hers. “I will
take back what is ours…. Scar’s…”
“I know you
will.” Keilah smiled, returning his affectionate motions. “I just wish I could
go with you.”
“I know… But I
promise you that I will make you proud and you will live to see it.”
Keilah closed
her eyes and held her son tight. “I love you, Shinda.”
Shinda held
his mother close and licked her head. “I love you too, Mother.” Then he slowly
pulled away to make his descent. Keilah didn’t know that this would be the last
time she lay eyes on her son. His figure continued on until she could see him
no more.
Shinda walked
on through the mountains under the dark sky. He dared not look over his
shoulder. He had to stay focused on the task at hand. The goodbyes were over now…
There wasn’t time to feel sad. Keep focused, he thought. As he pressed on, an
odd feeling set into him that this would be the last time for something. Would
this be the last time I come here, he thought. The last time I see Mother?… The
last time I walk again? He wasn’t sure what to think. With a heavy heart, he
sighed aloud and moved on into the Pride Lands. This was the first time he’d
ever been away from the mountains. Everything looked different and felt
different. The land was flat and filled with grasses as opposed to the soaring
mountains and dry rock. It was a whole new world for him; vast and mysterious.
This was to become his home now. His paws carried him across the soft grass of
the Pride Lands. In the distance, he caught sight of Pride Rock. The rock
formation had been described to him by his grandmother many times before. It
looked like nothing grand whatsoever. Blowing his mane out of his face, he
continued on. Soon, he’d rest for the night.
The form of a
young lioness exited the den at Pride Rock. The morning sunlight hit her pelt
and reflected to show a healthy shine against dark brown. Her eyes sparkled,
matching the blue sky. A playful smile crossed her face and she bounded down
from the rocky settlement. Though she was almost a full adult, she had a
cubbish nature about her. “Hey Sandula!” a voice called. The young lioness
turned to the voice to see her best friend, Nanaoy.
“Hey!” Snadula
greeted.
“What’re you
doing?” Nanaoy asked, eagerly. Her eyes were a beautiful reddish-brown that
blended well with her golden brown pelt. She tossed her head back to get the
brown fur that hung in her face away.
“Just heading
off to… wherever.” Sandula laughed.
Nanaoy
grinned. “I’d better go with you just in case you get lost.”
“Hey!” Sandula
laughed. She playfully hit her friend’s cheek with a paw. The two smiled and
laughed again before taking off. They were so close to adulthood, yet so young.
The Pride Lands had always been theirs to roam since cub-hood and here it stood
about them, still theirs to roam. The acacia trees grew larger along with the
horizon as the two best friends ran along. Sometimes you don’t need anything to
do or talk about. Just running freely is enough to keep your spirits high and
pass the time.
The morning light shone down through the
trees onto Shinda’s face. Slowly opening his eyes, he sat up. A small breeze
swept past him along with the scent of wildebeest. He yawned and carefully
stood up to stretch. Once his muscles were pulled and loosened, he shook out
his mane and looked about him. Pride Rock was still on the horizon yet
beginning to look a bit larger. As his eyes scanned his surroundings, they
caught sight of the wildebeest. He licked his lips and smirked. The ground
passed quickly underneath him as he made his way forward. Once he was a certain
distance away, he slowed to a stop and crouched down. Using the brush as cover,
he slinked closer to his prey. His trained eyes singled out a small wildebeest.
Moving silently, he came closer. The herd milled about grazing, unaware of the
danger that lurked nearby. Shinda moved a little closer and then sprung forward
with great speed. The herd, suddenly aware of him, cried out and scattered.
Shinda lunged at the small wildebeest and caught its back. He dug his teeth
into the animal’s neck and started to drag it down when a great pain stung him
in his shoulder. It hurt so bad that he fell back, letting go of his catch. He
hit the ground hard but looked up quickly to see several wildebeest charge towards
him. Rolling over just in time, he dodged the animals and they continued on
past him to the herd.
“Oh my god!”
Sandula cried suddenly. She slowed to a stop and looked out across the plains.
The wildebeest had stampeded because dust was rising in the air. “Did you see
that?”
Nanaoy came
beside her to watch. “See what?”
“A wildebeest
just charged that lion and knocked him right over!”
“Oh my!” she
turned back to see the male lying in the dust as the herd moved away.
Sandula started
to move forward. “We’ve gotta go help him.”
Nanaoy jumped
in front of her friend quickly. “No! He’s a rogue. We don’t know if he’s friend
or foe.”
“He’s injured;
how can he hurt us?” Sandula protested.
“What if it’s
a trick? We shouldn’t take that risk.”
“Nanaoy, we’re
Pride Landers! We need to show an example of our concern. We care… we should
show it.” Then she pushed past her friend.
Nanaoy sighed
and followed after Sandula. “I hope you know what you’re doing.”
The two of
them came close as the male sat up slightly. They kept their distance but tried
to seem as friendly as they could. The male looked young, probably just a bit
older than them. He looked very healthy and strong too. “Hey, are you okay?”
Sandula asked.
Shinda was a
bit surprised at their arrival but was grateful. “I don’t know… my shoulder
hurts like hell.” He replied, glancing at his arm.
Nanaoy saw
some blood and then a deep cut. “Wow! That wildebeest got you good with his
horns.” She winced.
Shinda growled
low and quiet to himself as he saw it was true. He hadn’t wanted to actually
get hurt in order that he could be accepted to Pride Rock. Now he had no
choice. His shoulder stung with pain from just sitting there. He winced and let
out a grunt.
“Are you gonna
be okay?” Sandula asked, coming closer. “We can go get some others to help
you.”
Shinda looked
up at her. Her eyes were beautiful and innocent. Quickly, he averted his
attention to his wound so that he wouldn’t stare. “Nah, I’ll be alright.” He
lied, managing to stand up. His smile was convincing enough to deceive the
lionesses.
“Alright
then,” Sandula smiled back. “Follow us. Let us know if you need to pause or
rest.”
Nodding,
Shinda began to follow. His arm hurt so bad it almost felt numb, but he dared
not say anything. He refrained from expressing pain on his face as he walked
though he felt his strength leave him with every step. The dark colored lioness
walked alongside him though just slightly ahead. She seemed very nice. The
other, on the other side, seemed hesitant and a bit skeptical. Perhaps she had
a right to be. He was a loner entering into their lands. It didn’t matter… He
would convince them as best he could. Deceit was to-
The world
around him blurred into darkness as his head spun. Losing his balance, Shinda
toppled over to the ground unconscious. Sandula and Nanaoy stopped and turned
to him. “Oh no!” Sandula cried. She bent down and nudged his face. “Hey! Can
you hear me? Hey! Wake up!”
Nananoy looked
across the horizon to Pride Rock. “C’mon, we’re getting help.”
“No, I’m
staying here with him.”
“Fine.” Nanaoy
knew there wasn’t time to argue. Quickly, she sped off towards the rock
settlement.
Everything was
black; a world of nothing. Just when a feeling of hopelessness crossed over
him, Shinda thought he saw a sliver of light. Hastening towards it, the light
grew til the world returned to him. His eyes fluttered open and he slowly
looked about him. He lay on his side upon a stone floor. It was a cave of some
kind. The entrance was before him, the stone floor going on out into the sun
until it suddenly stopped. Somewhat confused, he sat up. The pain in his right
shoulder returned quickly and he let out a loud grunt. As he did, a form
appeared in the cave entrance. It was the dark lioness he’d seen earlier. She
smiled and came over to where he sat. “Hey! You’re awake! Feeling any better?”
Shinda
returned the smile best he could. “Maybe just a tiny bit.”
“Your shoulder
should be fine. You lost a lot of blood out there.”
“Oh. Well,
thanks… for helping me.” he mumbled.
“You’re
perfectly welcome!” Sandula nodded.
Shinda looked
about the cave for a moment. There were only two other lionesses there. Perhaps
they were to watch him. Whatever their purpose, it didn’t matter. He turned
back to the cave entrance as some others approached. There were a few more
lionesses and then a strong built adult male. It suddenly hit him. He was
standing face to face with his own father.
“Welcome,
stranger! My name is Kovu,” Said the male, smiling. “And this is my mate,
Kiara.” He motioned to a golden brown lioness beside him who smiled sweetly.
Shinda bowed
his head then slowly lifted it. “Thank you for your shelter.”
Kovu slightly nodded in return. “What is
your name and where do you come from?” his voice was gentle and calm.
“My name is
Shinda. I come from the mountains far out from here.”
“You’re a
nomad, no?”
“I am.”
“Is there a
pride you come from originally?”
“No, sire.”
“Is there
anything in particular here you seek?”
“Only
nourishment and shelter… at least for awhile, if you will permit it.”
Kovu chuckled
softly. “Of course! You’ve shown no sign of threat. Stay as long as you need
to.”
Shinda managed
a light smile and bowed his head again. “Thank you, your highness. You are most
generous.” Somewhere in his mind, he was surprised. It seemed too easy…
“Seeing that
you’re wounded, it would be best for you to stay near Pride Rock until you’re
fully healed. The lionesses will be close by in case anything is to happen.”
Shinda nodded
once more. “I will.”
“Very well,
Shinda.” Kovu smiled. “Enjoy your stay.” With that, he turned out of the cave.
The lionesses followed out until only Sandula remained.
Inquiring,
Shinda turned to her. “Does he normally welcome all rogues like that?”
“He was
somewhat of a rogue himself one time. Long story short: His mother trained him
to take the Pride Lands, so he came as a rogue. Simba was harsh and skeptical
towards him. During his stay, his heart changed but Simba didn’t believe him
for the longest time.” Sandula paused for a moment. “I think he takes it to
heart. He probably feels that others may be like he was. He just wants to give
them a chance I guess…. ‘cause he never had a chance to prove he’d changed.”
Her words were
kept in his memory. “Wow. He must’ve gone through a lot.”
Sandula
nodded. “But he’s come around from what I hear. He’s a good king.”
Shinda moved to stand up fully. Gingerly
placing his weight down to his arms, he felt pain return. Ignoring it, he began
to walk out of the cave. “Where are we?”
Sandula
followed and came beside him. “This is Pride Rock.” She smiled.
As Shinda came
out into the sunlight, he saw that the rock that extended was a throne. The
Pride Lands stretched out before and on either side of him. His eyes became
wide as he looked about him. He turned to look behind him and nearly gasped.
Rising high above him was the promontory. “Wow…” he breathed. “It’s so much
bigger than I thought….”
Sandula
chuckled lightly. “Yeah, it’s pretty big. I guess it’s not as grand to me since
I’ve always seen it.”
Shinda moved
his eyes back across the Pride Lands until they came to rest on Sandula’s face.
“It’s gorgeous.”
“Yes, it
certainly is.” She agreed.
He just stared
at her for a moment. “You know…. I never asked for your name.” He laughed a
bit.
Laughing also,
Sandula smiled. “No, it’s alright! My name is Sandula. Yours is Shinda?”
He nodded.
“Thanks again for your help.”
“Yeah, no
problem.”
There was a
pause and Shinda looked out across the Pride Lands again. He was becoming fond
of Sandula already…. His task was to win the princess and he had to keep
focused on that. Even if he ended up not liking the princess, he had to make
the sacrifice of staying with her. It was all being done for Scar, his
grandfather. Who was the princess though?
“Something
bothering you?” Sandula asked, nudging him gently.
Shinda turned
to her and smiled. “No, I was just thinking to myself.”
“Alright then.
If you need anything, don’t be afraid to ask.” With that, she turned down the
side of Pride Rock.
He watched her
go then turned his attention to his wound. He grunted at the pain but tried to
brush it aside. Looking away toward the sky, he saw it was getting late. “I
must have been out a long time.” He said aloud to himself. “Almost the entire
day!” Sighing, he turned back into the cave of Pride Rock and laid down on his
side. He felt tired but also needed some time to think. He didn’t really need
to use much trickery to be able to stay. Perhaps he’d have luck on his side.
Closing his eyes, his thoughts continued on until he was fast asleep.
When Shinda
awoke the next morning, the pain in his shoulder had lessened greatly. He
slowly stood to his paws and looked around the empty den to the entrance. The
sun had already risen into the sky. A yawn emitted from his mouth before he
carefully exited the den. His paws slowly carried him down the side of Pride
Rock and onto the soft earth. He paused for a moment and clawed at the cool
dirt. While inside the den, he’d felt a bit at home. His paws were used to
rocky surfaces. The feel of soft dirt and grass was wonderful, he thought.
Slightly smiling, he then looked back up and continued walking slowly. His
throat, he noticed, was dry and begged water. Nearby were most of the
lionesses. Perhaps one of them could show him to a water source. Before he was
even halfway to them, his eyes spotted Sandula with her friend about to cross
his path. She’d spotted him also and their eyes met. Smiling, Shinda stopped as
the two stood before him. “Good morning, Shinda.” Sandula greeted.
“Good
morning.” He returned the greeting.
“Looks like
you’re feeling a lot better.”
“I am.”
“That’s great
to hear!” Sandula then glanced at her friend. “This is my best friend, Nanaoy.
You’ve somewhat met her already.”
“Hello.”
Nanaoy smiled.
“Hello.” Shinda
nodded. “I remember.”
“So what are
you up to right now?” Sandula inquired.
“Well, my
throat’s kinda parched. Is there a river nearby somewhere?”
“Yeah, the
watering hole is that way.” She motioned behind her. “Would you like us to accompany
you?”
Nanaoy glanced
at the lionesses nearby. “Actually, I gotta take care of something. Sorry.”
“It’s
alright,” Shinda said. “If you’d like to, Sandula, that’d be great.”
“Alright
then.” Sandula smiled. She and Nanaoy nuzzled before going their separate ways.
Then she turned and walked alongside Shinda. “Please forgive her. She tends to
be the skeptical one out of us.”
“It’s
alright.”
There was an
awkward pause between the two as they walked. Then Shinda spoke up. “While I’d
first been in the Pride Lands, I’d heard about your pride.” He lied. “There was
the king, the queen, and their daughter. I’ve met the king and the queen, but
who’s the princess? I just wanna make sure I address everyone properly.”
Sandula
glanced over at him. “Well you’ve been doing a good job so far, don’t worry.”
Then she paused for a moment. “You’ve already met the princess.”
Shinda knit
his brow then looked over at her. “I… I have?”
Sandula
giggled slightly. “Yes, you have. She’s me!”
Nearly losing his balance, Shinda stopped
and stared at her. “You’re the princess?!”
The lioness
nodded, still smiling.
“Why didn’t
you tell me, your highness?” and he quickly bowed his head.
“Whoa! Whoa!”
Sandula cried. “Number one, don’t ever do that. Number two, it doesn’t matter
if I told you or not. I don’t look down on people so I don’t like to be called
a title or shown respect that I don’t deserve… at least not while I’m still a
princess.”
Shinda lifted
his head, staring at her again. He was still a bit shocked. The one he was
becoming attracted to was the princess! “Sandula…”
She smiled and
shook her head then came over and nudged his face. “Not what you expected?”
Shinda glanced
away shyly. “Well… I didn’t have any expectations to be honest. I’ve only known
my mother and grandmother… never another male or, let alone, a princess.”
Slightly
surprised, Sandula inquired. “Really? Who is your mother?”
“Um… my
mother.”
“No, what’s
her name?”
“I don’t know…
For me, ‘Mother’ was her name.”
Sandula nodded
slowly. “What about your grandmother?”
“Same thing.”
“Ah…”
Shinda looked
back to her. “Strange to you?”
“Well, yeah… a
little, I guess. Perhaps it’s that I’m so used to being around more than two
people.”
“Yeah…” Then
there was another pause between them.
“Well, that’s
alright.” Sandula spoke up. “You seem to be a very interesting person, Shinda.
If you wanna talk about anything during your stay, then I’m here.”
A warm smile
broke out across his face and the two stared at each other for a moment.
“Thanks, Sandula.” Then the two started walking again til they reached the
water hole.
As the days
passed, Shinda’s wound healed and he was able to walk perfectly normal again
with no pain whatsoever. Though his wound closed up and healed, his friendship
with Sandula blossomed rapidly. The two had become close and developed an
attraction for the other. Shinda found her to be the best, most caring and
gentle lioness ever. She was open and outgoing with a sense of cubbish
playfulness. Their long walks and talks taught one another a great deal about
themselves and it was pleasant to be able to share secrets. Shinda felt that
his welcome may be worn, so one day he went to Kovu to request a longer stay.
“Your majesty,” he bowed upon approaching the king by the water hole.
Kovu, being
alone, turned and faced him. “Shinda!” he smiled. “You look terrific! How can I
help you?”
Smiling in
return, Shinda stood back up and came beside the king. “I came to ask of you a
longer stay.”
“Well, I see
no problem in it. May I inquire as to why?”
A nervous
smile overcame the adolescent as he spoke. “Well… um, sire… it’s Sandula.”
Kovu nodded,
still smiling. “Ah, yes. I’ve noticed you two spending much time together.
She’s even come to me to tell of such a wonderful lion you are.”
Slightly
reassured, Shinda’s ears perked up a bit. “Really? Wow…”
The king
chuckled lightly. “So I guess I have a good idea of what you’re gonna ask
next.”
Shinda laughed
nervously and gulped. “Yeah… I want to become Sandula’s mate but I’d like your
approval first.”
Kovu nodded in
response. “You certainly have it, Shinda.”
Happily
smiling, Shinda bowed again. “Thank you, sire!”
Kovu placed a
paw on the youth’s shoulder. “You’re a good lion, Shinda… I know you’ll care
for her.”
Shinda smiled
once again and beamed happily. “Thank you.” Then he turned and headed off to
Pride Rock. Kovu watched him go, smiling still.
Upon reaching
Pride Rock, Shinda sought out his lover. “Sandula!” he called happily. At her
presence, he smiled warmly and nuzzled her face affectionately. “I’ve wonderful
news!” he purred.
Sandula
nuzzled him back just as affectionately and smiled. “And what would that be?”
she purred back to him. It seemed almost as if she already knew but was trying
to contain herself.
Shinda then
pulled away and gazed into his lover’s eyes. “I have gained your father’s
acceptance to ask you a very important question.”
The princess
gazed back into his eyes and smiled too. She didn’t realize she was holding her
breath. “Yes?”
“Sandula…
would you be willing to spend the rest of your life with me?”
Her eyes lit
up as he said it. “Yes!” she cried, quickly leaning in and nuzzling his neck
and face. “I’m more than willing!”
Overjoyed and
somewhat relieved by her response, Shinda smiled big and returned her
affectionate touches. He wanted to say something but was unable to. All he
could do at that moment was hold her close to him. He really did love her. He
thought it would have to be faked but as fate had it, he had no need to. It was
too perfect… For a brief moment though, a feeling came to him. It was the same
feeling he had when he had first left the mountains and entered the Pride
Lands. Not wanting the moment to be ruined, he brushed the feeling aside. All
he cared about just then was his new mate.
The next day,
a ceremony was held for the two. Sandula and Shinda were recognized as the
future rulers of the Pride Lands. Everything was set. Shinda had found
happiness as it came to him and his mission had been accomplished; all in one.
Now Scar’s bloodline could flow dominant in the royal family. Now Scar had the
chance he was never given. For a moment during the ceremony, Shinda thought he
could feel Scar’s presence. It was as if he were watching in approval from the
heavens. A joy filled Shinda and he smiled warmly to himself. All was well
until some time passed. Many nights became sleepless for Shinda or filled with
nightmares. He couldn’t explain it. Life with his mate had been wonderful so
far. Sandula was even pregnant with their first cub. Now, things seemed to be
going downhill. The same feelings and thoughts that he had upon first entering
the Pride Lands that one night returned more and more. They were inescapable.
He decided one
day to go visit his mother and grandmother as he promised he would do. They
needed to be informed of his success. It was a chilly, dreary morning when he
set out. Sandula had taken notice of his uneasiness over the past few weeks and
desired to know what was happening. She walked along with her mate as he made
his departure from the pride. “I must speak with you.” She stated.
“Very well.”
Shinda replied.
Once out of
earshot, Sandula spoke up. “Shinda, what’s bothering you? Don’t think I haven’t
noticed.”
Shinda kept
his eyes diverted as they walked. The farther from Pride Rock he got, the
stronger the feelings were within him. He felt terribly sick all of a sudden.
“Shinda?”
He paused
before he finally replied. “Sandula… Do you remember how your father was? When
he came here, he originally had wrong intensions… but over time, he changed.”
Sandula became
slightly uneasy but listened still. “Yes, I remember.” Then she glanced over at
him and saw how distraught he was. “Shinda, what happened?”
He was able to
look at her for a moment before diverting his eyes again. “What have you been
told about Scar?”
Not knowing where
it was all going, she paused. But no, she thought, Shinda always has a reason
behind his questions. Trusting him, she went on and answered. “Mom and Dad
always told me what Simba had told them. He’d said that Scar was evil and
jealous. His hate drove him mad and he even murdered his brother to get the
throne. His reign was terrible and he nearly destroyed the pride and their
lands.”
Of course he’d
say that, Shinda thought to himself. He slowly shook his head. “Only part of
that is true.” Out of the corner of his eye he could see Sandula look at him in
shock. “Scar was once a good lion, but that side of him was destroyed at too
young of an age. No one showed him the love and attention that a cub needs. It
seems Mufasa needed it more than anyone else. Yes, Scar became hateful and
jealous… but it wasn’t his fault. He even tried to right the wrongs he’d made.
Of course no one took notice because they all hated him. They ignored him as a
cub then scorned him as an adult… It wasn’t his fault…”
There was a
pause as they continued walking along. Sandula was shocked. “How do you know
this?” She was unaware that Shinda knew about Scar.
“The only
person to ever show him the love and attention he needed and deserved was my
grandmother…”
Sandula’s eyes
widened and her mouth hung open slightly as she came to a stop. Shinda stopped
with her and dared a look into her eyes. As Sandula looked back at him, she saw
that he was being honest. What scared her was that she also saw fear in his
eyes. “Shinda…”
“Sandula, I’m so sorry… I…” but he
couldn’t think of anything else to say. As he struggled within himself, tears
began streaming from his eyes.
For a moment,
Sandula only stared at him in shock. Her mind went over his words as she
watched his face. She’d never seen him weep before. Could he be telling the
truth? He came here with certain intensions but changed? He was of Scar’s
bloodline… Who else would know better than him what happened to Scar? Simba
wasn’t even there during Scar’s reign…
As she watched her mate shed tears of fear, she realized that he had to
be right. Swallowing hard, she came close to him and nuzzled his neck.
Shinda quickly
returned the motions and licked her forehead. “I must go… My mother must know
of my success.” Then he paused and looked down into her eyes. “You won’t tell
anyone… will you?”
“Shinda, it
doesn’t matter if you had a plan or what not. I love you and trust you.” She
managed a weak smile. “Do what you must. I’ll still be here for you… always.”
Shinda smiled
back and kissed her on the lips. When he pulled away, a look of sorrow overcame
his face. “Sandula… I… I don’t know if I will return.”
His mate knit
her brow in disbelief. “What?… You have to come back!”
“My sleepless
nights… the bad dreams…” he said, almost choking on his words. “They’ve built
up to this moment in time. I must go…”
“But what
about our cub?” Sandula protested, tears leaking from her eyes.
“Our son will
be fine whether I come back or not. The kings always watch from above.”
Shocked again,
Sandula inquired. “Son?”
Shinda nodded.
“I can sense it…”
Tears rolled
down Sandula’s cheeks endlessly. She quickly buried her face in her mate’s mane
and cried loudly. “I love you, Shinda!”
He held her close
and stroked her shoulders. “I love you too, Sandula and I will always be with
you no matter what.”
They stayed
that way for a long time until Sandula pulled away. “You must go… I’ll tell no
one of who you are.”
Shinda smiled
and nuzzled once more. He paused. “Thank you, Sandula. Thank you for
everything.” Then he turned and continued on his way. As Sandula watched her
mate go, she knew deep in her heart that she would never see him again.
It was
nighttime when Shinda finally reached the den where he once lived. Strangely,
it was empty. An odd smell hung in the surrounding air also, but he ignored it
as a figure caught his eye. Coming towards him from a slope was the figure of a
lion. Shinda stood by the den entrance and looked quizzically at the figure.
The lion had a rich black mane with dark fur and green eyes. What caught his
eye most was a scar on the left eye. “… Scar?”
The figure
smirked. “Yes, it is I. You seem to have completed your task quite well, young
Shinda.”
“I have… but
where is my mother and grandmother? I made a promise to them.”
“Oh, don’t
worry! They know you have succeeded. I made sure to tell them myself… but sadly
their time on this earth is over. Yours is to come too, you know.”
“Yes… I know.”
Shinda paused. “How did they die?”
Scar sighed
sadly. “In the same way you will meet your end, my son. The hyenas weren’t able
to kill me, so they hunted down the ones that meant the most to me… and they’ve
learned of you too.”
Shinda lowered
his head. “No…”
“I’m sorry, my
son.” Scar said, taking a step forward. “I, alone, can’t decide who lives and
who doesn’t. But don’t you worry. I look forward to seeing you again in the
stars… As does your mother.” Shinda looked up at Scar’s image. It started to
fade away with a smile. “Well done, Shinda. Well done, my son.”
Shinda smiled
back as the image disappeared. Just then, sounds filled the air as well as the
foul smell. Glowing green eyes arose from the darkness of night. Looking about
him, Shinda sat down. The hyena leader, apparently female, came forward and
bared her teeth at him with an evil grin. “Make it quick, please.” Shinda said,
closing his eyes. Before long, hyenas were piled atop him as their howls rose
into the night air.
Time passed,
as always, and Shinda never returned. Though greatly sorrowful, Sandula didn’t
let it get to her. She knew that her mate was always in her heart and that
she’d meet him in the stars when her time came. In the meantime, she had the
Pride Lands to help maintain as well as a cub. The cub, as Shinda foretold, was
a boy. He resembled his father very much and constantly reminded Sandula of her
mate. In honor of her loved one, she named the cub Kovu. Her son was the true
blood of Scar, unlike her father. Little Kovu grew strong though. He knew that
his father was gone forever but he never let it bother him. All he was focused
on was the task at hand. He knew he’d get to meet his father one day. Just from
observing her son, Sandula found the strength she needed to continue on.
It has been
noted that her life was overall a happy one until the event of her death. Now
she is filled with more joy then ever before as she has reunited with her mate
in the heavens above. As for Kovu, he has lead a happy life also as king with
his own mate. No one knew that the royal family bloodline was Scar’s. That is
to be revealed in time…