PART ONE:Your loving arms Scar slowly lurked away from pride rock.His four courting lionesses that had chased him around all month followed his every move until his black mane and dark skin were out of site.Where did he go every night?Why?No one knew what the king of pride rock had up his sleeves. He was kind of reclusive and showed no interest in the lionesses.He was all brand new like a fresh lion.His mane was longer and fine like the thread of a dandelion seed.He walked upright and proud his commanding posture caught the eyes of every female including Sarabi.He had bulging muscles and was no longer a walking skeleton. Taka was a proud lion and had learned the skills of fighting quickly from the lioness Yolanda.She too favored him but never trusted him.Beesa constantly dilly- dallied with his mane complementing on is sumptuous length and thickness.She liked it bushy but he habitually licked his paw and slicked it back.One thing was bothering him:Nala.His little Nala.He often pulled her aside to try and tell her that he was her father and how much he would like to be treated like one.Sarafina would never let him get lovely dovey with her.Nala was not his cub.But she knew better.Sarabi was completely out of hope.She had lost the only lion she could ever love and her only son.Her life had been tragic her mother Avida was killed by hyenas and Shaka her father had been killed in a vengeance rampage. She almost begged for Scar to take her back and love her the way he had before.The pridelands were starting to dry up a little but it wasn't very noticeable. The wind trilled through the trees.The crescent moon shone with her sisters the stars.Everything seemed so perfect.The still quietness. The chirp of the cricket the buzz of the guinea. Scar looked at his reflection in a still pool.Even though others thought he was wonderful,physical wise,he still couldn't see it.But she could.All other females left his mind when she came there.The rogue.That beautiful rogue.She shown like the sun.Not peach like Nala Gold.REAL gold.The color of the noon sun.Violet eyes like the sun set.She was swift and strong and the pride was jealous as heck.Her tiny paws made no sound as she passed through the sleeping pride and into his cave.She never called him Scar she called him Taka his birth name.Her name was Isis.Not Swahili like Taka or Simba or Sarabi or .....Mufasa.He cringed.Half guilt the other hatred.He knew what he had done wrong and admitted it to his twisted mind readily.He didn't condemn it but he never rejoiced over it.Poor Simba.So young so innocent.But innocence rots in time.He knew this very well. He sighed and and licked his paw letting it slide over his satin mane. "I don't think you need to change anything.I like just the way you are" His heart jumped at the sight of her.His rogue. "Isis.You're here early". "You can talk.I need to talk to you.It's very important". "Yes". "I'm pregnant". Taka was dumb struck he stood there mouth hanging open.He would have cubs Yes!He always wanted a child he could care for.He had one that.... "Don't worry" she said soothingly.I always wanted cubs lots of em' to". Scar stammered."B-b-b-but...w-w-w-what about the p-pr-pride"? "What about them I'll just come in and join".He looked at her angrily then released his gaze. "I don't trust them". She looked up at him defiantly."I am the daughter of Maudi Bloodpaw.Great granddaughter of Frazier the great. Teacher of Janja Shadowlurker.Does my blood mean nothing?I have taken down herds of hyenas single pawed!Taken over pride just for the heck of it.I can at least exist peacefully in a pride and bear my cubs". Scar muffled a small laugh."I see" CHAPTER TWO:Sweet Dreams Simba kept running but he couldn't catch it.The white lion in front of him just kept getting faster and faster.'time,Time,Time'it kept chanting again and again.It leapt up and the lion king followed.He leapt up.It was gone.He was standing on top of pride rock looking at a slow motion picture of his home burning.He heard an un-eathly scream and saw Scar.Falling,screaming,just falling until it stopped.Everything.The fire,the scream.But the next thing that happened made Simbas blood curdle.'Simba......Simba...'it was Scars voice.'Vengeance....Vengeance...'the voice died again until thousands of voices cries shout screeches and war cry exalted from the heavens and consumed his terrified mind.'VENGEANCE!VENGEANCE!VENGEANCE!VEN...'.And then it stopped.Simba looked up totally petrified The clouds began to take shape like when he saw his father.The figures green eyes open and raised its head and uttered a shattering roar.... Simba awoke from his dream,shaking,quivering,more scared than he had ever been in his life.Nala was asleep beside him.He looked down.The pride slept peacefully.He looked over to Shani she was standing at the moth of the cave.Her gold fur gleamed in the cold moonlight. She looked into the oblivion with her unflinching golden eyes."Shani,dear is something troubling you"? She turned her head and slowly turned back."Daddy,who is grandpa"? "Why,uhhh...grandpa is well...honey tree no one is really quite sure. When I bring up the subject she doesn't listen." "Okay,Can I just go for a walk dad". "Sure.Remember don't get too light headed with all that dreaming of yours.If you're gonna rule the pridelands you have to learn about a tiny thing called reality". "Yes father". She plodded down her future throne and off into the darkness. Simba wearily walked to the peak of pride rock.He looked over his shoulder at Nala and the slowly dissapering princess."It's all over...until it starts again".His tears were flushed by a gust of wind.The smell of hyenas and death lingered on it.And in that gust of wind Simba swore he heard "I'M COMING" CHAPTER THREE:Loves First Blush Isis walked silently,her head resting on her mate's shoulder as they slowly walked towards priderock."I love you so much". He whispered like the wind in her ear."I know.You say tat so much.I love you too my king". "What will the pride think of me". "They'll be jealous till it hurts".She laughed. She followed Scar lovingly.The pride opened their sleepy eyes.Each sleep filled eye met a too beautiful to be true lioness.She was gold as the sun and she sparkled and glisten like the water on a pool. The looked at each other and slowly pulled their drooping chins up. "This is Isis,my mate and the next queen of the pride lands.I intrust you will entreat her with the same respect that you would show Sarabi". They looked at her in disbelief. "Yoland,Wazi she will lead the hunting party she..." "She is an untrained no account rogue.All she probably eats is stinking waterbuck and carrion from hyenas"! Seeka snarled at her jealously and the three other flirts joined her.Scar growled at her. "Now see here you four" Sarabi joined in on Isis's side. "You don't even know her.Now act like adults"! They layed back their ears and bowed to her. "Who's she"? Isis whimpered in Scar's ear. "Oh,she was my brothers mate and she ruled the pridelands.She did so much for the benefit of peace and life for her home she will almost assuredly go down as a legend unlike my brother he died at an early age." "So do you wanna' get started with the hunt our not"? "Enthusiastic isn't she"? *** Shani walked across the never ending morning savanna.Humming to herself like a sparrow. "Well,I've never seen a more beautiful lioness you shine like the sun". She gasped and wheeled around and saw a beautiful lion.He was dark maned with piercing,fiery eyes.He was lightly built but handsome. "My name is Shani.I am the princess of the pridelands and daughter of Simba and Nala,may they reign forever". "Did you say Simba?". "Yes is that a problem"? "Uh,no.No it's not.My name is Kovu son of...well,Isis". "Kovu?That means "scar".My dad and mom fought a mean lion named Scar. He stole our throne.He was a terrible ruler". "And a forgetful father". "What did you say"? "Uh nothing.Could you show me around I'm new". *** "What makes you so special"? Ngwame growled at Isis. "Maybe it was fate". "Fate?Ha!You have no god heathen"? "I believe that we all have a chosen one that the circle moves us to. Aiheu moves us to". Taka is my chosen one and I love him with all my body heart and soul. I die for him and he for me". The four lionesses were shamed by her modesty."You for Join the rest of the pride!There is a zebra herd over there just waiting for us". Sarabi pushed them back into line. "Sarabi,you and Sarafina come with me.You seven others go through that grass and fan out in front of the herd.Stay low.And be prepared"! They eyed each other. "I could of thought of that!Anyway it will never work".Isha spat.Isha and Yolanda led the seven lionesses through the tall grass and fanned them out in front of the herd.Isis took Sarabi and Sarafina through the cool shadows of the kegla trees leading them towards the rear of the herd. "Now Sarabi you take left flank and Sarafina take right.This is just a precaution but it happens a lot." They nodded and positioned themselves where she had said.Isis strode out between them in plain view. Isis was determined to show Scar that she didn't need to be keapt in a iron cage.She was a full grown adult and could take care of herself.She didn't need hyenas for bodyguards or the pride to come at her every whim.She glared at her prey.They met her stare with equally curious eyes.she had to make a kill.The gods were with her!The lush blue-green grass silent rubbed aginst her shoulders. "Isis,get down you'll scare them off!The pride will be trampled"! Sarafina hissed. "Shhh.Follow my orders and we'll eat like queens". "Easy for you to say".The herd looked at her with unflinching black eyes."Oh-ho!What stupid animals.They just standing there.They're gonna get eaten". Isis said to herself. "Look at them.What dumb animals they're gonna get trampled". An old zebra said to her mate. Isis sped off and landed on the back of a young male.The others took off.Heading right where Isis wanted them."We're going to get killed"! Sikeea shouted.Isis shot her head up from the dying dinner in her paws."HOLD YOUR GROUND"! She roared.Just as the herd came upon the waiting lioness Isis roared again"NOW"!! The lionesses shot from the grass like frightened quail and sprang upon the nearest animal.Three were in the lions grasp and the herd averted their direction towards Sarabi and Sarafina."CLOSE FLANKS"! Sarabi and Sarafina rushed in each grabbing hold of a much awaited throat. Isis hauled her prized and counted her kills."Let's see,1-2-3-4-5-6.A record low for me with a pride but it'll do". "I can't beleive it!We've never killed so much." "Well,I haven't missed a kill in ..let's see..two..three years." "Scar and the hyenas will be full.So that's how you fattened him up like that." *** "Today I announce my queen.She not only will bear the next ruler but if anything should happen to me she will rule.Today before the gods and the host of the elders and the kings of the past I present my queen". Scar stood like a stone pillar on the top of pride rock,his kingdom gathered before him.The pride stood behind him.His Isis stood provocatively in front of them her tail coiled around her front legs.Some lionesses were mad at her for taking his attention.The hyenas below hooted,hollered and whistled he made his habitual 'throat slitting'movement which meant 'shut up or else'! sometimes it ment other things. Isis slowly made her way up the rock and surveyed her kingdom.She climbed the rock keeping her eyes locked with his.Her golden coat glinted in the sun and her violet sparkled with love."Before you go any farther I love you Isis.From now until forever.May the gods bless us and our children in the years to come." He stretched his paw across the horizon."Your kingdom.They're waiting to hear you".She waited for Scar to roar but he gestured for her to start.She roared.Her roar seemed to shake the ground and startle the ears of Scar's subjects.He answered.The next two roars they proclaimed in unison.The pride roared twice.The zebras,sables,meerkats,elephants.antelopes,cheetahs, a pride of lions that lived close to the pridelands,and every other creature roared,hooted,snorted,pawed and bucked.Scraped and reared.Yelled and screamed.Cried and rejoiced.And the animals below bowed to there rulers. ......Except one.A lone hyena watched her beloved and the lioness roar.Her long,black hair wipped in the wind as her ears stung to the ringing pain of their twin roars.She sighed.He had forgotten her and what they had together. "Well,at least you're happy.That is all I could ever want my love". Scar and Isis stayed in their cave for a whole week after her coronation and their marriage.Isis had formed fast friends with the hyenas and lionesses alike.Scar taught Isis the pinning move (for other reasons than fighting,ahem) that he had taught Nala.She was quite impressed by his stealth and speed,but his strength could use some work.She lead the hunt and communed between the constantly feuding hyenas and the pride as the ground grew a little dryer and food slowly decreased.She was the luke warm water in a land of fire and ice.A rock of tranquility in a sea of squalls.Nala had to be her best friend.And she often told Scar that maybe the lionesses should be allowed to find mates outside of the pridelands. One day,while Isis still slept,Taka crept out of the cave and over to the sleeping Nala.She had grown a little larger since Simba and Mufasa went to live with the gods."Gods, my daughter is beautiful." "Nala,I have to tell you something before the others wake up." "Yes sir". She followed him obediently. "Look Nala everything the light touches is our kingdom". "It is beautiful my lord". "One day the sun will set on my time here and will rise with you as the new queen". She stood,silently questioning him with her eyes."Nala,did Sarafina ever tell you who your father is"? "No sire.She told me that Mufasa would always be there for me". "Why not me"? "Sire"? "Nala I am your father and I love you dearly". She stared at him as he lifted his paw.She followed it with her eyes as it hovered over her head."It's alright".He said soothingly.She lowered her ears as he slowly caressed her head.She slowly smiled and purred.Scar smiled widely.Nala got up and smothered her head in his long mane."Daddy.My daddy".He silently let a tiny,joyful tear run down his eye.Scar lowered himself like a giant sphinx as little;Nala crawled in between his paws.He licked her head as she played with his long,black whiskers.Taka pulled out a long claw and tickled her tummy.She grabbed his hand and laughed hysterically. Sarafina rubbed her sleepy eyes."Nala,it's time for....Nala..NALA"! She looked around but she was gone."Sarabi" she nudged the dethroned lioness."Where is my daughter"? "I don't.....". There was a loud round of laughter from the peak of priderock."No". she whispered. Scar raced down the rock with Nala close at his heels.She growled and leapt upon him."Gotcha". Scar rolled on his back in a very convincing death scene."Oh,got me again"! She panted "I love you,dad". "I love you too daughter".Nala looked down and betwix the digits of her paws was a blood red flower."Look Daddy,Alba-the blood of mercy". "You are as smart as you are pretty". "It's my favorite bedtime story". Nala plucked the flower with her teeth and climbed onto the crest of Scar's mane.She unleashed her tiny claws and braided the flower into his mane."Where this dad." "Simple gifts created great things".Nala smiled proudly. "NALA!GET AWAY FROM HIM" ! Scar pulled himself up with one paw and eyed the growling Sarafina with Sarabi behind her. "Nala,get away from him"! "No". Nala quietly hid behind her father's large forepaw. "NOW Nala". "Sarafina.You should be ashamed.Never telling her who her father was". "It doesn't matter!You were supposed to leave us alone!You promised!" "I promised-YOU promised"! "You said you never cared about the reaction of the pride.You said I would at least be able to say hello to my only child". "Your wife is with child!Don't even think about taking her away"! "I just want a chance to love her and be loved in return". "He's right Sarafina."Sarabi barged in."If I know him it was very difficult for him to do this.He deserves a chance.And I know he would never steal her.He will make a wonderful father." Sarafina began to cry Naiomi and Beesa rushed to her."Come Nala there is much to learn". Nala followed her father into the savanna.All that lay beyond,the unquestioning oblivion and the questionable future. CHAPTER FOUR:The Ties That Bind Two violet eyes watched pride rock keenly.He gold fur shivered in the breeze.A strong voice came behind her,"Mother,we need to hunt".she turned around to meet her son. "Alright Rahaja". He looked at her beautiful face."He's coming". She smiled.The two left the rock and headed towards the pride.She was proud of her children.Ten to be exact.Seven boys.Three girls.The girls had already found rogue mates but saw them little now.Two of the males had mates one was pregnant.Her daughters Aiheu,Kami,and Kiasa slowly followed her of the quarry of their home onto the savanna.The lioness slowly slunk into the grass hidden by her gold coat.The three daughters hid in the shadows with their chocolate coats and black tufted tails.....and green eyes. The wind blew sweeping the three lioness scents past the impala herd.They smelt the lions scent and dashed to right where the old lioness was hiding.She leapt upon the petrified creature with a roar snapping its neck neatly. The party dragged the small kill back to there home.They would hunt again in a short time.The old one began to slink off."Mother,are you going to pride rock again". "Yes. There is someone I need to see". Nala stood silently on her throne watching her kingdom.Remembering her mother...and father.Scar was her father Simba never knew and she hoped to keep it that way.He treated her so well.Like a real father.All his time was devoted to her.She learned of his past secrets and ran away from it all.The sweet sound of his voice as he whispered things in her ear.The gentle kindness he gave to her from them to what thery hoped to be forever. She heaved a sigh.What was that?Was that something in the grass.It was.Two purple eyes were watching her.When they met whatever it was scurried away.She tried to cry out but it was gone as quickly as it came."Your highness!My queen"! Zazu was panting at her feet in a majestic bow."What is it"? "Another pride!Dark lions.Brought down and antelope an hour ago.Four females.Seven males"."Tell Simba and the pride"! Zazu fluttered down to them and told them of the situation."Yolanda,you follow Zazu and lead the pride.Nala you're with me". "Ummmmm..no I don't think I should go.Please find Shani and bring her back please". Nala watched Simba and the pride dissapear through the thick grass.. Something was wrong.She turned around.There was a lioness there.She stared at Nala eyes wide and cold.She never even breathed.Nala was to scared to move. "Nala'she snapped eyes not blinking "Join us!Before it's too late!" She noticed the three gashes on her left shoulder.The lioness approached her and unleashed her claws.She swept across her left shoulder.Nala stifled acry.Nala growled and approached her angrily.The lioness backed up.... BLOOD OF TAKA STRONG AND SURE SIMBA DIE HE ENDURE What was she talking about.Taka?She knows who I am?Simba!She turned her head around to where Simba had gone.Everything looked fine.What in the world was she.......she was gone. Nala dashed off racing across the pridelands."Simba"! She shouted. The blood from her shoulder dripped onto the parched ground.She saw Simba talking to the pride."Simba"! "Nala,what is it". "Oh,you're okay". "Nala!Who did this to you"! There was the scurrying sound in the weeds ahead and slowly the dark pride emerged.Their green eyes stared coldly at Nala.Nala head began to reel.She could hear cries,laughter,everything.Then her head was filled with African chant.And slowly she heard it only a whisper that grew to a scream. BLOOD OF SCAR SURE AND STRONG THROUGH IT ALL HE LIVES ON Nala screamed and seized her head.Simba and the pride rushed to her side.She was panting and wheezing.Simba turned around angrily to the dark pride but they were gone."Nala,what did you see?What is wrong"? "Simba I saw-they...."she stopped suddenly and shot her head to the sky that one by one was filling with stars.The wind blew around her and whispered in her ear. She stared blankly at the sky a said one thing-"he's coming". CHAPTER FIVE:Spirits Hi mama kelwewa Eups supomi jay Yom eis yombaby uncaba me Oh! na hi mama Africa Oh!ma mama Africa Feel the spirits surround you Ancient history of life Feel your spirit soaring This is the land of Africa -Lebo M. It was still dark and chilly when Isis woke from her sleep.Her mate snored loudly with Nala sleeping beside him with her paw draped around his neck.She was almost growing so big their little pedestal wasn't big enough for them but she was hanging on her dad's tail.Zazu slept with his head under one wing trapped in a rib cage.He had been there ever since mating season had started and he kept squaking, screaming,and dancing.The other lions could stand it but it drove Scar mad. Isis groaned as she rolled over.Her purple eyes shot open with a breif kick from within her and a dull,but painful pain.Her tail twitched.It was time for new lives to begin. She pushed herself up and nearly fell.She shook her head and pushed her mate hard. No waking him up.He slept like a rock. Isis left with no goodbyes but a brilliant smile."Don't worry,Taka. When I return,The gods will bless us and our little ones and bring your land rain."Isis trotted off into the horizon. Deep in the thorn bushes on the out skirts of the pridelands. "And you,you are Kovu.There,eleven cubs.I'm exhausted". Kovu played with an ostrich feather alighted on the wind.His brothers and sisters slept or sat looking at their mother curiously."Kovu,you're walking' already"? Kovu stumbled on his shaking legs falling over a tiny cliff.HE coughed in the dust,looking around for his family.He mewed piteously."Kovu,where are you"? Kovu looked around for his momma.There was a brief shift of leaves and an obnoxious hissing sound.He mewed again.A black snake slowly emerged from the shadows."Kovu"! Isis looked down in utter horror at her son and the snake.It struck bearing his fangs and digging deep into his chocolate fur. "NNOOOOO"!!! Kovu fell and didn't move."My baby"! "Fortunately,the snake was nonvenomous and I barely survived taking what I could from hyena and vulture carrion." "I'm so sorry".Shani licked his cheek and borrowed his head into his long black mane."I know my father will object but I still love you Kovu". "I love you Shani". The sun rose higher and higher into the sapphire sky as the two sealed their bond under the shade of the acacia trees. CHAPTER SIX :Growing pains DURING SCAR'S REIGN "Nala we all love you more than anything but you know your father is untrue". Nala sobbed as Rafiki and Sarabi comforted her. "My child,dad circle had a place for you dat is not meant for Scar. You need to follow this". She looked at Rafiki through Taka's unflinching golden eyes.In those eyes he saw the love and pain she was made to endure.She lost Simba.Now she was going to lose her father that she loved more than life itself."I am sorry". Sarabi licked her cheek.Rafiki stretched his arms across the horizon."It is your destiny.Look across this kingdom it will live because of you". She slowly descended the rock and looked back."I'll go but I want to see if he still loves me". Scar rolled around with his mondavu.At three months old he was the biggest of the litter.Ten cubs.Ten whole cubs!His sons and daughters adored their father.Scar couldn't let what happened between he and Mufasa happen between his cub.So he made official thet Isis would rule if something should happen to him.Isis told him he would live to be old and wise but he knew this wasn't true.He never had a favorite,but Kiasa his daughter was the most fun. and Rahaja always played with the hyenas.Kami was born to hunt and run.Aiheu was beautiful and a good fighter.N'golo, Ngwema,and Akosa learned what they could from the wisdom of the pride.Bonja,and Kube were mom's little boys.And Modavu was daddy's little guy. Scar laughed about what a hard time Rafiki had presenting the cubs to the pridelands.Kube had fallen out of his hands but Scar quickly caught him and held him up on his own. Stupid monkey.They al looked like him. Cute.Well it was hunting time.Isis slowly got up with three cubs hanging off her back.Scar chuckled as they fell on their rumps with a plop.He picked Kami up in his mouth and led them back."Ah,Dad I wanna' hunt"! "Dom't be widicowus.Gob,ifs hard tof tag lick thif".Scar spat his word clumsily with the cub in his mouth.The cubs followed him back to his cave."Let's see 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-.Hmmmmm.Rahaja"! "Rahaja was playing tag with Ed when daddy callled. "Awww.But Dad" .... "Antelopes butt,you come up here". "Sorry Ed.See you later". Rahaja slowly entered the cave.His father stood sternly at the mouth."Dad.Why wont you let me play with Ed". Scar lifted him and began to bathe him."Dad,da erhhh C'mon you're messing' up my umph mane".Scar smiled and let him down."That's why". Scar plopped himself on him stoney bed.Zazu sat sleepily in his rib cage."Hey Dad" said Kiasa "Can we play with the banana beak"? "Oh- sure kids". They lept upon the cage clawing at the tasty chicken inside."Scar!Your highness!Sire!Please help me"! Scar just laughed. "Alright you've had your fun".Zazu breathed a sigh of relief as the cubs jumped on to of the pedestal. "Dad,tell us a story.Like the one with the lioness that slit her wrists,or Kube fireheart,or Maudi Bloodpaw". "Oh,argh,umph,let it wait till later my memory's not goin' anywhere". "C'mon pleeease"?! Scar looked at the pitiful puppy dog faces around him."Oh alright". They snuggled into his mane or under his paws."Once upon a time,when the savanna was young".... The lionesses scraped off what was left of the carcass that the hyenas had finished.Sarafina sat stone faced staring off in the sunset mumbling something to herself. From a silent standpoint,a lioness looked into Scar's cave ~He forgot. He forgot all about me~."I love you momma". She turned "I love you daddy". A wet tear ran down her face as she galloped from her past into the oblivion beyond. CHAPTER SEVEN:Loyalty "And father in our native toungue is". "Baba"! Nala answered excitedly."We.We baba". "Dad,is mom angry with me". "No" Scar answered affectionately."She just loves you so much she doesn't want to let go". "Will you still love me when the cubs are here"? "Will I love you?!Of couse I will.Nala,no matter what I'll always love you.No matter what you do no matter where you go you are my daughter and I love you more than life itself". "Daddy,I've been thinking.If we're all connected in the circle of life then how-i mean-we eat the zebra,and antelope". "Well my father and mother always said that when we die our bodies become the grass and they eat the grass-and so- we are all connected in the circle of life". "Dad,will you always be there for me". "Yes,Nala look at the stars". Nala looked up at the stars watching them one by one slowly take their place in the sky."The kings-and queens- look down on us from those stars.So,remember those rulers will always be there to guide you......and so will I". The quickly growing young lioness tried her best to snuggle into her father's mane.She silently fell asleep.She snoredQuietly.Scar groomed the gold pelt of her fore head unaware of Sarafina's watchful eyes.She tucked her tail between her legs and approached him.Scar glared at her."Please,I just want to see her". "I vagualy recall that somewhere." Sarafina's ears lowered as she remembered how she turned him away when Nala was born."Come,she is your daughter too". A smile slowly rose to her cheeks.She licked his cheek kindly."I touch your mane great one." He nodded.She sat down beside young Nala and curled herself around her.Scar yawned as he watched them fall asleep.He rolled onto his back and he too,fell fast into the oblivion of shut- eye. Nala was Scar's salvation.Scar's atonement.No matter if she were girl or boy he loved her the way she was.And he would equally love his forth-coming cubs.Nothing,though,could take the place of his little Nala.Nala was Scar's goddess of life.And Scar was Nala's world. Back at pride rock "Good Aiheu!Get Rafiki!She's dying!" Niketa,Isis's handmaid tended to her."You're not due for another two weeks!" Isis screamed another yowl of pain. "Scar!Where is the King"! "Please,my husband".Isis wheezed her words in horrible pain."He's here"! Rafiki jumped off Kibeti's back and over towards Isis."What have you been eating"? "I don't argh! remember.Umm..the last thing I remember was waterbuck, no elephant.Oh I don't remember,help me!" Rafiki shook his head."She must have some real food.Is there no Zebra or Gazelle?" Niketa glared at Zazu in his rib cage.He laughed nervously. "Wait!" Niketa recalled the last hunt."I remember her stomach got sick so she ate some grass.She ate the curly plant with purple berries.I told her not to but you know her.." "Give me dis plant"! Rafiki roared.Kibeti jumped from the ledge and carefully plucked some lilac-like plants careful not to swallow anything."Gods!They taste horrible". Kibeti dropped the bitter plant at Rafiki's feet.He examined the plant with a look of horror."Mwadi.Get her feet up now!She need water!Keep her cool!Get me some palm fronds and a kegila fruit!" Isha returned from the barren search grounds."We have no fronds or fruit.The tress are barren." Isis was slowly slipping away.Little, yellow beeds of sweat dripped off her forehead.She panted heavily and in short breaths."OUT OF MY WAY!MY WIFE!MY BEAUTIFUL ISIS!"Scar's loud roar sent his pride scattering."Your here!" Isis put her paws around his neck."Cheetahs!Taka stand by me!Mwasi!Amhhonra!Giana!Gods,don't leave me"!! "Shh.It's okay.Rafiki you little bastard she's delerious"!Scar growled angrily at him."Scar step outside.Isha,Niketa,Kibeti stay here." "You mean she's.." "Yes,now go"! "I won't leave her"! "C'mon boss." Banzai and Shenzi urged him to his feet.They had to pull the two away from eachother. The next few minutes were filled with screams and roars.It slowly began to settle down.Rafiki hobbled out of the cave followed by the three lions."I'm sorry.False alarm.Please keep an eye on her.I'm not sure if she'll last through de-" "Of course she'll last!Don't you dare say she won't!" Scar picked up his staff and slammed it to the shaman's chest."I don't want to see you again or so help me God I'll fold you five ways and tear you into so many peices even the vultures won't find you"! The pride watched the ghostly figure dissapear into the gathering gloom. CHAPTER EIGHT:Faith journey Nala dragged herself over the dry cracked ground.She breathed a sigh of releif as she collapsed into the dry grass on the out skirts of the jungle.She heaved her chest,welcoming the oncoming sleep.But she couldn't sleep.She missed her father too much.She was too tired to sleep and too hungry.~Oink~.What the he...warthog!Fat warthog! Yummy warthog! Nala tensed her muscles ready to spring.Pumbaa saw her and took of running as fast as his stubby little legs could go.~Good bacon.Stay still you fat tub 'o lard!~ Pumbaa squealed as he became stuck under a root.Timon pushed on his behind as hard as he could.~Appetizer and a main course!Even Isis never had it so good~ Nala roared.What the hell! A lion leapt apon her,but his untrained strength was no match for her.She screeched and slammed him to the ground before he even knew what was happening."Nala"? Nala slowly backed up into the shade of the low brush. "Who are you"? "It's me Simba". "Simba"? They rushed apon eachother knocking heads playfully.Simba could barely control what he saw when he saw Nala.She was beautiful!Her eyes...and her...coat....that smile...her voice...her laugh...god's she was the most beautiful creature he ever saw.Nala and Simba wandered off into the enchanted landscape feeling the rebirth of childhood friendship and the birth of adult ambitions.He tried desperately to get her alone and off the subject of coming back to the pride lands."Nala,I love you so much". Nala looked at him coyley feeling a surge of electricity like she had been struck like lightning.She,Isis,not even Scar had a claim to the throne.Simba was alive. "Simba you must come back to pride rock". "Don't worry about it.Not tonight". "No Simba this is your responsibility". "I can't go back". The shaggy,lightly built lion walked into the green feild-Nala in his heart,Mufasa on his mind. Nala too sook sanctuary in the stars hoping that her father would somehow whisper a word like he had promised.The wind picked up the leaves and seeds of dandelion blowing across her face and whipering in her ear-"Eternal". CHAPTER NINE:Eternal Nala groomed her gold pelt in the sun.She admired her reflection in the pool in front of her."Nala".It was her father. "Comin' dad". Nala trotted over to him expecting him to be happy as always.He was droopy and seemed sad."Yes,dad.You ok"? "Put your head on my mane". "Why"? "I'm your father.Di I need a reason"? Nala did so and sat there for what seemed the longest time.A fisher eagle creed to the sky.The lord of the air.From far away another eagle answered back.He dived into the air and carrened to the reflecting pool skimming over the surface and clutching a fish in it's grasping talons.Scar waved to him.Both kings in their own right. "What did you want to see me about"? "The seer has fortold some terrible things". "Like what"? "Well for one,our land will dry up and dye and that you will-turn on me". "How so"? "You will grow to hate me through some new form of love". "Never"! "You're right.I'm so gullable.Jst a foolish old lion eh"? "No you 're not!You're not foolish and you're anything but old". "Just remember these memories Nala.They may be all you have left one day" *** "Nala,you find my mother and rally the lionesses I'll look for Scar". She nodded as a lump rose in her throat.She silently slipped past the hyenas heading towards the pride.The thin lionesses scrapped the old bones of a dead elephant bull.Kibeti rushed down off a rock carrying a small peice of rotted,rank meat.With a roar Isha and Yolanda fell upon her pulling at the scrap.Nala gasped as they tore viciously for the food.She slowly came into veiw."Nala.my gods!By the mane of Aiheu.You're here and you're beautiful". The lionesses swooned and nuzzled her.Sarabi licked her cheek.Nala looked up locking eyes with Sarafina."I love you mom". Sarafina burst out in happy sobs and covered Nala with a thousand kisses."Come Simba has returned". *** Nala watched helplessly as her love dangled from a cliff and her father stood triumphantly on pride rock.Isis woke from her dreamless sleep,her cubs hudled in a corner watching the flames lick the sides of the cave."Taka!Help us"! Isis dashed to the mouth of the cave and screamed out his name.He turned preparing to dash away to her. "MURDERER"! "No Simba please"! What was going on who was Simba.Nala was standing next to Sarabi tears streaming down her eyes. "I-killed-MUFASA"! Nala screamed in pain as if a knife had been driven into her.Sarabi screamed in rage as she leapt apon Scar's back.The others followed her and clawed for hyena throats.Nala leapt upon the hyenas on Simba as Scar scrambled to his footing and raced into Isis's cave."Isis leave now"! "Not without you"!! He piled the cubs onto her pack.Some walked and one was dangling from his mothers mouth.Tears clouded their eyes as they looked at eachother for the last time.He roared in pain and slowly prodded them out the mouth of the cave.She leapt off the rock leaving behind her memories.Scar slunk away.He didn't hate anyone now.Not Simba,not Sarabi,not even Mufasa.He hated himself.There was a roar behind him as Simba charged after him.Isis watched from a faraway rock.Scar and Simba fought viciously.Scar was winning.Simba landed hard on his back and everything moved in slowmotion.Scar leapt from the flames as Simba used Nala's flip,Taka's flip to send him hurdling down the the hard ground below. The hyenas leapt apon him.In his final breath he muttered "I'm sorry"."No!Get away!" Nala,followed by Sarabi,pushed away the hyenas. They scattered about and headed back to the unquestioning life of the elephant graveyard."Daddy.I'm so sorry I brought Simba here It' s all my fault." He looked up at her coldly."I still...love you". He muttered.His voice died with his spirit and he slowly ceased to breath.Nala soaked his fur with her tears."Why?You loved me once.You took all I had.Why?" Sarabi's eyes began to cloud as she slowly muttered to him.She fondled his tattered mane and kissed his scarred eye."The scar that brought me to you and the scar that took me away". An old,battered hyena approached them.It was Kami."My son!Oh gods no!!Did you kill my son Nala". "It was your daughter,Shenzi". "The child has given me nothing but sorrow.He loved me.Really loved me.But he was not fit to rule.Gods save his soul". Sarabi whispered a quite prayer-"Forgive me for loving him.But gods!How I loved him"! The two lionesses and the hyena poured out their love to the carcass as the rain began to fall like tears from heaven. Nala's flooded eyes caught the dull tinge of crimson betwix Scar's matted mane.Blood?No.A flower.An old,red flower that had not emerged from it's masters mane in years.As the rain fell harder and harder the wilted,withered flower pulled itself out of a mangled bit of a braid and fell to the ground. CHAPTER TEN:Long is the road... Sarabi gazed over her once kingdom.Remebering both Scar and Mufasa. She loved them both.Keeping her head down she strolled into Scar's cave." I wish you were here Taka". "So do I". Kami's voice cut the stillness of the cave. "Who are you"? "Think about it.I've-we've come for revenge against our father". "You! You're alive.You are alll welcome in Nala's pride." "No I want you.Weither I live or die this is assuridly your last day on earth". "Your father would have never wanted it this way"! "Don't you dare tell me what he would have wanted"! Kami leapt at her biting furiously at her neck and clawing her soft underbelly.The two lionesses tore at eachother's pelts.Sarabi's dusky, faded coat quickly became soaked in blood.Kami's chocalate fur redden in Sarabi slashing claws.Sarabi roared and back handed her into a wall.Kami came landing with a crunch on Sarabi's back legs.Sarabi roared and shook her furiously by the throat.Kami slowly stopped breathing and Sarabi dragged herself out of the cave. Sarabi could barely move but she had to see her son."Help me". The pride looked down at her and rushed upon her with cries of sad desperation.Nala and Simba skidded to a stop in front of her. "Mother!NO!" "Nala come here".Nala slowly obeyed and sat beside Sarabi."You must rule with kindeness and peace.Teach Shani what I have taught you my child.Look this land...lea halalela". Simba collapsed wrapping his arms around her neck."Simba...can you see it?The light.And Mufasa..." She trailed off and slowly closed her eyes.Simba roared sadly.Each lioness let her tears that had been kept in a storehouse of saddness flood from there eyes.Rafiki quietly walked between the "Lala kahale Sarabi". He plaecd his hands on Nala's shoulders.It is time.Nala climbed to the peak watching the pride bow to Sarabi.Zazu swept a tear from his eye and Timon and Pumbaa bowed in reverence.Nala thrust her head to the sky and roared three times.The pride answered along with Simba.The lionesses bowed to Nala. CHAPTER ELEVEN:Come and get your love DURING THE REIGN OF Ahadi Sarabi dug her head deeper into Taka's long mane."Of all the lionesses to choose from you chose me.Tell me,will I ever get you alone with all of those obnoxious females chasing you around all day. " "You will if I have anything to say about it.You're so beautiful and not just outside but so beautiful inside.Maybe that's why i love you so much we fabana". Taka smiled as she caressed his cheek. "What did you say"? Sarabi looked at him lovingly.eyes bright and ambitious. "I said I love you my little sparrow".Taka said sweetily. Sarabi rubbed up against him."We thando". Taka caressed her back with his claws."Ah-ah-ah.Not until the wedding night you naughty boy. " They smiled at eachother mischeiviously. "Taka,Taka,where are you?Come out you naughty little love bunny". The giggles of lionesses drifted down to them.Sarabi shook her head. You tell them you're for me and me alone." "Baby,if I have to jump into a cave with ten beautiful lionesses for you that's just the chance I'm gonna have to take".Taka licked her cheek."Don't worry.I'll tell them today.But you are engadged to Mufasa you know." "Don't remind me.I don't love him.I love him like a best friend almost like a brother." "We'll take care of THAAA-a-a-a". A lioness leapt upon him pinning him to the ground."So there you are you naughty little bunny". Isha trotted up beside her followed by two others."Shall we play tag big guy". Taka was about to say something when-"No we won't.Taka is mine and that means you're gonna have to leave us alone". Sarabi said puffing her chest with pride."I'm going to have Taka weather you like it or not Sarabi." Wazi said wrapping her paws around his neck.Sarabi growled but was still smiling."No he's not.Wazi you little liar.He's my toy". Isha pushed the dusky colored lioness off the young lion and took her place.Sarabi walked up to Wazi commandingly."Taka is going to be MY mate,Wazi". Wazi strode in front of her arrogantly. "And if Mufasa puts a stop to your little affairs"?Sarabi's smile faded as she let out a low growl and jumped at Wazi.Wazi yelped in alarm and took off,Sarabi close at her heels. "It was just a joke"! Wazi yelled at the angry lioness.Sarabi didn't hear it,if she wanted to hear it.Sarabi roared and pinned her to the ground."I-i-i-it was just a joke.C-c-can't you take a joke"? Sarabi growled as the other lionesses giggled at them.The princess let her subject up."I don't want to catch you with my man again or I'll just have to mess 'yall up". Sarabi strutted away and back to her future mate."Problem solved my love". Taka smiled and licked her cheek. "You better get back to pride rock.I will see to it that on my mantlement ceremony we are married.And mantlement night---is up to us". He smiled toothily.Sarabi laughed and headed back walking seductively,swishing her tail so that Taka's went flying all over the place. Taka walked to the reflecting pool admiring his sumtuous mane. "Taka". It was Ahadi and Mufasa."My son I love you and so does your mother but we all are aware of you and Sarabi." "Oh my gods". Mufasa was looking at him angrily. "Taka,Mufasa and Sarabi are engadged."We don't care!We love eachother.Do you realize that if this gets between you and your brother you could be dethroned as lord of the pridelands."? "I-we don't care". "Brave words my child but I fear that you will sing a different tune when Mufasa is king".Ahadi left the two to quarrel on their own. "Taka,leave her alone.She's mine." Mufasa growled at him. "You want everything don't you?You took all I had slowly.Sarabi is not going anywhere". "Stop it both of you"! Sarabi jumped between baring her fine teeth. She suddenly smiled a wicked smile."We settle this my way.First lion to catch me gets me for the rest of tonight..I'm not saying I'll marry you though." Taka and Mufasa exchanged angry glances.Sarabi giggled and shot through the bushes.Taka was closest to her and was close to her heels. Mufasa's heavy body lagged behind.Sarabi suddenly veered off the shady path and into the woods.Taka smiled as he remembered his special little hiding place he had as a cub.Taka went in the opposite direction.~Where is he going~? Mufasa thought. Sarabi clawed at the tree's amd caught her breath at the top of an old boabab.Mufasa skidded to a stop.No way he was going to catch her now.Sarabi laughed and plunged into the magical glade.A dark lion leapt with a roar from a shadow pinning her to the ground.She smiled as she recognized Taka's handsome face.Taka leaned down and licked her neck."NO YOU DON'T"!!! Mufasa leapt at him knocking him off the lioness."How did you get up here"?! Taka roared angrily.Mufasa nudged Sarabi to her feet and she pushed him away annoyedly."I can do it myself". "I'm going back to pride rock". Taka heaved an exagerated sigh as the two angry lions followed him home. "Mufasa".Sarabi whispered to him in his ear.He shivered wishing to here something more from her."Mufasa,I love you as a brother.A spoiled little brother though!But Taka makes me feel so happy.Please.. ." "Sarabi,I love you". "I know but I love you like,like a spoiled brother.You took everything that Taka ever had.Your overprotective,and obnoxiuos and those are your least irratating qualities."She charged away and put her head on Taka's mane. The three went seperate ways when they reached the summit.Sarabi went off to find sarafina.Mufasa,as usual,went for a reassuring chat with his father.Taka,on the other hand,had nothing on his mind."Son." It was Akase. "Ahadi told me what you and Sarabi are up to". Taka looked away from her. "I know you are suffering for her my son". "Suffering?More like rejoicing.She's mine mother.I need no throne,no kingdom,but Muffy has to take ALL of it doesn't he"? "You are chasing a cheetah.You cannot have her my son.She belongs else where." "But I love her.I love the way she looks.The way she smells.The way she moves.The way she talks.Who doesn't?" "Well you won't like Mufasa's temper.He'll banish!I couldn't live without my little boy". "I'll take whatever risk.She IS my kingdom.My goddess". "Do not speak ill of the true gods my son". "Heck.All the praying I do,I should be a shaman.But,I don't need the gods if I have her". "Maybe you should speak to other lionesses.There are others just as pretty.If you'd care to look at them." "Why look at them when I could look at Sarabi"? "Well,If you'de open those green eyes of yours you'd see how much Wazi,Seeka,Isha,and Niketa worship you." "My mind is set.I will have Sarabi as my mate and neither Mufasa or you or father or even the whole pride will keep me away from her." "I BET I CAN YOU LITTLE RAT"!! It was Ahadi.He charged down from a steep incline and faced his son angrily."Akase,leave us".Reluctantly,she did so."I sould have killed you the moment you were born.All you did was steal milk from Mufasa!I never wanted you!You were a mistake!" Taka growled."I hate you". "You hate me huh?!Then kill me!!C'mon!Show what guts you have if any!!" Taka raised his large paw but it stopped in front of Ahadi's muzzle. "You can't do it huh?Well,I can". The king struck the prince with a swift blow sending him sprawling to the ground."What have I-" Ahadi stared blankly at his paw then at his son's badly bruised cheek."Taka,son I'm sorry.I've been saying things and doing things that I ccan't stop.It's just that I-" "Never wanted me.That changes nothing"! "May the gods smile apon the children of Akase and Ahadi.Ahadi blessed among lions.Our king ruler.Blessed Akase.Right hand of Ahadi. Mother of kings.Ruler of the pridelands.Daughter Shingrala and Ngwame. Ahadi...." Taka rolled his eyes as old Makedde and his apprentice Rafiki,rambled on and on and.... "Old windbag".Duma elbowed Sarabi."I agree with him". Sarabi said dreamily staring at Taka."You always get the good ones.I mean Mufasa is strong and all but something about Taka just...ooooooooohh"!! Duma licked her muzzle and Wazi winked at her. "Wa-wait,stop the ceremony". Makedde stumbled on his words and eyed Taka suspiciously."In all due respected your majesty but",Makkede said."Please do shut up". Taka pushed him out of the way."Father, mother I would like to make it official that Sarabi and I love eachother and we are asking that her engagement to Mufasa be called off." Mufasa begged him with his eyes.Ahadi and Akase's eyebrows twitched. "My sons,I see no other way to settle this,oh it pains me to say this, but fight".Taka crunched his shouders locking his flaring eyes with his brother's.Mufasa and Taka growled and circled eachother.Taka leapt at his hindquarters hoping for an easy way out of this fight. Mufasa dodged him and threw all his weight against.Taka threw his light body at him as they rolled furiously.Taka bit as hard as he could but was unable to penetrate his thick mane.Mufasa used his strength and pounded against his brother furiously.Taka shoved his hind legs into Mufasa abdomen and slammed him to the ground in a raging fury.Mufasa had lost. "Good trick.Oooh,look at his mane it looks so awesome thrown in front like that". Sarafina swooned over Taka regardless of Mufasa. Mufasa pulled his free hand out from under him and slashed his brother's unwary eye.Taka roared and pawed furiously at the gash.He fell to the ground in a dark heap."My eye!My eye!You've blinded me!!" Sarabi bent down to lick his eye gently."Ahh-huh.Ohh".He pushed her away as the searing pain in his eye worked it's way to his heart. Mufasa stood over him triumphantly."Taka I..." Sarabi growled at him. "You have my throne,you have my love,my parents blessing and favor, and now my eye.I hate you.You are no brother of mine". Mufasa's face hardened stone cold with his icy words."You are forbidden to show your face at pride rock unless called by me.You will no longer eat from the prides kills.You are not allowed to take a mate." Taka's heart fell and burned worse than his eye.The defeated lion pushed himself up and plodded away from pride rock.Akase began to cry and Ahadi shook his head sadly."No". Memebers of the pride murmered."Sire,I think this is a rather hasty desision." Zazu landed at his feet."SILENCE"!!! Sarabi wailed at the top of her lungs and fell to the ground.The pride rushed to her.Rafiki patted her head silently.Tears slowly emerged form Mufasa's eyes as he watched the lioness that he loved but would never love him."Sarabi I"....Sarabi spat at him in unrestranable fury."I hope I live to see the day you die". She hissed.The mirage bolted to the path of her beloved shouting to the prince over her shoulder."Tommorow I'm in chains tonight I am free"! Taka bathed himself in the cold moonlight trying desperatly to hold back his tears."Taka". Sarabi nuzzled him. "Go away.You and Mufasa have something better planned I'm sure". He said "No Taka,tonight is ours.I am yours and you are mine.From dusk till dawn from now until eternity you and I are one now and forever." Sarabi ran her head down his legs as she slowly fell to the ground.He put his heavy paw on her shoulder."Now and forever ". Mufasa went to the pride with a heavy heart.Akase fled from his sight and Ahadi mearly shook his head."Repeat after me". He said sternly "He is a shodow among us" "He walks with us-we do not see him". "He cries and we do not comfort" "He yells-we do not hear" He sighed as his eyes wet with tears."He--is a shadow among us". The pride slowly repeated his words.Wazi and Seeka left his presence to talk about the shunned lion that they had come to love. Akase sunk to the ground and cried uncontrolably. "My son!!My son-gone!!My son is dead!" Ahadi kissed away her tears and blinked away his own.Mufasa felt a firm paw on his shoulder.It was Sarafina.Without warning,she smacked him angrily."I hope you're proud of yourself!!" She charged away with the rest of the pride. THE NEXT MORNING Sarabi and Taka said their sad goodbyes and departed from each other."Where do you go,beloved?" "To the east.Claw tip peak.There is a large pride there and their ruler grows old." "So you will find another mate and forget me"? "Never.Promise me.Promise that you'll never go to Mufasa". "I promise". Taka got up to leave."Wait!I want to go where you go". "This ragged world dosn't deserve such beauty". "I don't care what Mufasa says.I love you.I'll follow you to the ends of the earth and beyongd-" "You will stay here.I love you too much to put you in danger". "Will I see you again"? "I-I don't know.Pray for me". The slowly departed as Sarabi murmed over her shoulder-"Pray for me too".Taka left towards the outskirts of the pridelands to see what card fate would deal him.Sarabi tearfully strode to priderock and ran face to face with Akase."And now his purity is gone". "What"? "Please,say last night was not what I think it was.Please wake me from this nightmare". "It was". Akase shook her head. "How could you!You're his milk sister and all the times I nursed you, I thought of you as my own." "He begged me ,Akase.He was on fire!" "If you could turn back time,would you take it back"? "Never." Taka stopped to lap at the farthest waterhole when he noticed a russle in the bushes.A hyena pushed her way out of the black braken. She was the most lovely hyena he ever saw.He growled at her ominously. "Please,millord,spare me.I am with child". He stopped."When are they due"? "Soon now". "I'll spare your worthless hide is you do me one favor". "Speak freely". "Your children will be in my service". "And what would that be"? "The usurping of pride rock my lovely". The talked for hours about lifes loves.Past and future.And behind them-a rock,a throne,a summit,an ambition. SWEET SALVATION:THE FINAL CHAPTER Isis watched coldly as the scavenger birds began to circle pride rock.Her purple color had left her eyes along with their feeling.Isis sighed,well sarabi was taken care of Nala had claimed her throne."Mother,she's not coming back is she"? "No,I'm afraid not". Kiasa's face fell."Do not worry daughter.It ends tonight". Isis strolled out into the grass.The wind whipped through the blue green grass.Thunderheads gathered in the sky.She turned her head up to the sky shouting :"Taka!We need your guidance to fight against Simba!" The clouds churned and bubbled as Scar's ghostly form appeared. "Isis,you have forgotten me". "Never"! "This circle of hate must end". "And it will with the death of Simba and Nala". "No.Please stop the hatred". "Then we go on without you." The specter dissapered.There was a loud round of thunder and the ghost appered his face as large as the sky itself.His word shouted like thunderclaps. "THE CIRCLE MUST STOP.UNLESS IT DOES IT WILL CONTROL THE LIVES OF YOUR CHILDREN,YOUR GRANDCHILDREN EVERYONE"! Scar slowly began to dissapere."The choice is yours"...... THE REIGN OF MUFASA "I'm begging you,Scar.I want children." "I will never betray Sarabi"! "Get over her!She's not yours anymore"! "Leave me alone Sarafina". "I would love them.I would never object to letting you see them." Taka slwoly turned and looked her in the face.She was so desperate for those cubs.Neither Scar nor Mufasa had chosen her for a mate.It was Sarabi this and Sassy that.Scar had been forgotten in the hearts of the lionesses and in the heart of Mufasa.Sarabi would never forget him,but she had to admit she loved Mufasa.Sarafina and Sarabi were best friends they told eachother everything.Ever since Mufasa had won over Sarabi,Taka was not allowed to take a mate.Mufasa was that determined to get rid of his brother. "Please,Mufasa and Sarabi are having a child and I...." "WHAT!!What did you say"!! He was furious beyond all comprehension. "Scar I'm so sorry". Scar' s head fell.How could she?She promised him. "I am not allowed to mount a lioness." "Please,we grew up together.Please,as a friend". Scar slowly turned to her.He locked his eyes with hers. "Swear upon the name of the gods and on your mother's head that you will not care about the reaction of the pride and that you will let me see the cubs". "I swear it". *** Shani yawned loudly and looked up at the dusky sunset that surrounded them.One by one the stars began to take their place in the velvetty blackness of night.The wildebeast loped around aimlessly in the dusky haze of twilight.The flat topped acacia trees slowly turned from green to black.An elephant reaced up her trunk to grab ahold of the thick brances.She tugged with her trunk setting it beside her young calf.The calf played with it,and in that fleeting moment Shani saw what was and what might be.The union of her mate with her may very well bring a new life,or lives to earth.Her brother,Chaka,had died two weeks after they were born.When she heard of his father she cringed.It changed nothing though.She still loved him no matter what the pride said. She looked over to her dark haired mate who snored loudly on his back.She laughed and prodded him with her nose.He opened his eyes and stared at her dreamily through the dim light.Dainty gazelle pranced past them,kicking their heels.The orange ball of light had long since vanished from the sky.The moon's cold rays reached out like arms across the plain.Zebra drank lazily from a vacant waterhole. Kovu pushed himself up and yawned stretching his back legs.Shani did the same.They stroled over to the waterhole lapping up the cool water.Shani wiped her face and looked at Kovu."We have to tell the others at pride rock." Kovu nodded slowly as if he expected not to live through the ordeal."Shani,promise you'll never leave me.You'll always love me right"? "What kind of a stupid question is that"? "I'm not stupid"! "Okay,sorry.I promise no matter what happens,I'll always love you". Kovu smiled.Shani strolled into the blue-green grass as the dandelion seeds kicked up behind her.She smiled looking up the stars."Kovu,have you ever tried talking to your father"? "No.That's silly". "No it's not.My father says the great king~and queens~of the past look down on us from those stars." "Really"? "Yes, I think that if you tried hard enough he might talk to you". "But,he did so many terrible things.Why would he wanna speak to me?If he is up there". Shani licked his cheek."Aiheu works in mysterious ways". Shani walked across the plain,her head on her mates shoulder."I love you so much" .Kovu whispered like the wind in her ear."I know, you say that so often".He smiled as he looked into her eyes. Priderock loomed on the horizon.Shani hoped that Simba would take this well. Shani led Kovu through the chasms and caves that he might one day call home or even his throne.The stars shone brightly upon them, giving the two young lovers their blessing.Nala would be the most easy to compromise with. The two stroled through the acacia dotted home of the pride.The lioness talked quietly to eachother. They stopped suddenly as the princess and a new hansome,regal,magestic,suave male approached at Shani's side."Your higness,who's this". Said the aged Isha."This is Kovu." "I don't want my granddaughter runnin' around with some lion she picked up in the savanna". Sarafina said sternly."Nana,he's a good lion;you'll like him". "If you don't tell her who my parents are". Kovu said throught clenched teeth."Shhhhhh.She can hear like a bat eared fox". "I am not a bat earred fox young lady". Shani rolled her eyes."Where,is Nala". "She and Simba are spending a little quiet time". Dhoruba and her young daughter strolled up to them gingerly. The young cub placed his paws on Kovu's face."You stinky.Need mommy. She give you bath". Kovu chuckled along with the pride. Shani led him to the royal bedroom."Ooooo.what we gonna'do here". "Kovu!You wicked lion!Keep those busy little paws to yourself"! Shani stopped as she heard her parents voices from the inside."I'm so sorry. She was like a mother to me.We'll always remeber her.She was a good queen." "What"? Shani pushed her and Kovu into the shadows to listen to their conversation."I'll always love her but I have to get on with life.It just feels like my whole world's falling apart Nala.Ever since Scar killed my father".. Kovu swallowed hard.~This is gonna' be fun~ he thought glumly."Now,my mom's gone". Shani gasped at the thought of her grandmother being gone.She silently strolled out of the cave.If she had been here she might have been able to stop the incident."She really meant alot to you"? Kovu walked up to her."Yes". "Let it out Shani". "She's gone.Gone!" Shani fell on him sobbing into his mane.He couldn't help but think that this was his fault. Shani wiped the tears from her face and regained her composure. "Hey!Shaka Khan who's the stiff"? Timon and Pumbaa looked at her inquisitively."My name is NOT Shaka Khan,Shake and bake,or Shania Twane,or Shani bani be bi bo big furry fanny either!I don't know where you get that stuff you little pest"? "I have e.s.p I can see into the future.But your right,I dunno what my mind is doin' when they send me that stuff". "I like the loud mouthed rat". Kovu said poking him in the stomach."I,sir am not a rat I am a striped meerkat named Timon.Hey Shaney baby Joe wants to speak to you". Shani rolled her eyes.The four hundreth time she heard this one.Humor him Pumbaa mouthed."Alright.Joe who Timon"? "JOE MOMMA"!!! Timon clutched his side."I'm gettin' to old for this". Pumbaa snorted."Shani,is that you dear"? It was Nala.Shani nudged Kovu and slowly walked inside. "Father,I want you to meet someone I love very much".Shani beamed with pride her black tipped ears pricked.Simba and Nala smiled widely with hopes that she might have found a future mate."Kovu,come here my love". Kovu entered putting on his most dignified face and holding his chisled head high.Simba gasped and Nala's face turned white at the site of him.It was Scar.... wasn't it."Father you must know something.Kovu is ....Scar's son". Simba began to growl.Nala jumped to her feet.Sarafina cocked her head."Isis and her golden children.It's been too long". "I won't allow it Shani"! "Father you don't even know him"! "Like father like son"! Nala locked eyes with him.Simba stared at them deeply wondering what was going on.Shani was crying softly."Simba,it is Shani's dissision". Nala looked at him gravely. "No!Out of the question"! CHAPTER TWELVE:The child from the stars Mufasa nuzzled Sarabi his only love.She smiled,but another part had died where her love for him was born.She had betrayed the only lion she could ever love.Did he know?She loved Mufasa but she loved Taka.This child--oh he was so handsome.This child was the symbol of her betrayl and her love.In a vast corner of her mind she wished on a star that it was Scar's child.She looked around.He wasn't here. Sarafina had just given birth two days ago and Sarabi's curiousity grew to emense amounts.Had Scar betrayed HER?It didn't matter.All that matters was her baby.Her first born had never tasted his mother's milk before he left this world.He was named Mabatu. Mufasa approached her,his face shining like the sun.Rafiki followed. Rafiki touched her head "Blessed are you great queen". She smiled and licked Simba's head.Rafiki smiled."Another boy eh?One of these days we'll here the roar of the lion queen". "I certainly think so". Said Sarafina licking her beautiful daughter.Rafiki smiled and hopped over to her."And who is the father of this gorgeous child". Sarafina's smile faded."Umm,it's a long story". "And I'd surely like to here.Not today though.You my child will be a legend.Your name will be blessed in all togues and races.You will be Simba's mate." Sarafina shot her head up looking at Sarabi and her child.Sarabi winked. Rafiki hopped back to simba breaking a guord in the shimmering sunlight.Rafiki picked up a handful of dust sprinkling it over the cub's head.The old shaman picked up the cub looking at his king and queen.They smiled proudly.Rafiki thrust the wiggling child into the air.The animals rejoiced the birth.The circle was complete as it would always be. Deep in a black maned heads dreams... They stood around him taunting and teezing,like they always did. "Look at the bag of bones" "Look how scraggily his mane is!I knew Aiheus favor would never pull through on this rat!" "Hey Taka!Wanna fight or are you gonna run off to mommy"? The cubs off the pride circled him.Young Taka tensed his weak muscles waiting to spring. "Oooh,look,he's gonna jump on me!Ooooh..I'm so scared". Mufasa was laughing hysterically,not bothering about his brothers tribulation.Taka yowled and leapt apon him and ran his claws down Mufasa's right eye."Ow!!Daddy!Daddy!Taka hurt me"! "Just like you to get daddy to save you"! Taka growled. Taka fell his long mane rush back upon his neck and head and his long whiskers sprout.His words that he said to his father all came rushing back."So you hate me,huh"? It was Ahadi."I knew I should have never let you live you Worthless bag of bones"!Taka leapt for Ahadi's neck.He felt the warm gush of blood in his mouth and released his father.He had done it.He stood over him panting.All hate was released,it felt so good. The scene shifted.There he was watching a three-month old Simba scream and a struggling Mufasa climb.Mufasa's stiff muscles pulled him up the rock.Above him-Scar-two of them.One white and reaching a helping paw to his brother,the other,black as ebony wood.He stood leering over Mufasa.They eyed him.Taka stood between them contemplating the next move.Kill his brother he hated so much or save him.Taka's long claws dug into Mufasa's gold fur.He roared.Taka struggled to pull him up."No." An old hand touched his paw.It was old Makkede,long since dead."This is a place of atonement,Taka.Let your anger play here and let your life live with peace".Taka knew what he meant.He let go of his brother letting him fall into the thundering stampede."Now go in peace". Scar woke from his dream."Yes,That's what I'll do!the gods must mean it!I must have my vengeance!It is righteous in the eyes of Aiheu"! Taka ran off into the horizon towards the shadow lands where elephants went to meet their god.An old babboon watched him leave.His arms drooped with age.He sighed and shook his head."No Taka,that's not what he meant". He looked at a painting of a dark lion standing regally in pose on his ancient boabab home.Then,slowly,ran his hand over it. A WEEK LATER Scar had been more reclusive than ever when news came of the birth of Simba and especially Nala.Today was his turn to look at the royal brat.Scar loped along the rock as the lionesses stared at the once dignified lion who had fallen ever since he lost all he cared about. Sarabi lazed in the dappled shade admiring her cub."He has his father's eyes". Her head shot up at his smooth voice.She didn't want him to see her this way."Oh,Taka you're hear." "I know.What's his name"?"Simba,it means the lion". "A little bland don't you think my dear"? "It was Mufasa's idea". "Figures".Scar shot coldly thanking God that Mufasa was wandering around somewhere.He leaned in closer till his muzzle was almost on her ear."How could you do this to me"? "I-I didn't do anything!You lost"! "You promised"! She lowered her head.Scar placed his paw on her shoulder.She shivered at his touch. The lionesses gasped at the passionate touch.Sarabi sqeaked in surprise and pushed his paw off of her and growled at him."If Mufasa saw that he'd ear your lustful carcass into so many peices even the storks won't find you"! She suddenly quieted down."Please,I just want to be alone". Scar sighed an strutted over to Sarafina who was quite far from Sarabi."What do you want"! She growled."What do you meen?I'm her father". Sarafina's face blanked out."Don't you dare say that to anyone!I'll be banished!You are forbidden to have a mate"! "I just want to say hello to her.I have no buissness with you". She growled. "Stay away from her or I'll tell Mufasa AND Sarabi"! MONTHS LATER "Leave us alone"! "You she hyena"! "You,you-arrrghh!" Scar and Sarafina quarelled bitterly unaware of the green eyed cub listening to her every word."If you love Nala you will leave us alone." "I love Nala to much to abandon her"! Scar spat his word in unrestrainable fury.Nala gasped,she had found her father! "Mom,who is- " Nala revealed herself jumping down from a short rock."Nala". Scar walked over dreamily to her."NOO"! Sarafina leapt at him.Scar was winning easily.She roared and threw angry,flying punches and jabs at him but he pinned her with a smack."Let me go!I'll tell Sarabi"! Sarafina squirmed from his strong grasp and darted towards priderock. "NALA COME"! Nala raced after her but suddenly stopped.Scar turned sadly,he had only to wait for his fate from Mufasa.He could always hope that Sarabi loved him enough to keep it a secret."Sir wait". It was Nala.Scar looked at her and then at himself.A scraggily unkept mane,once the mane of a great lord protector and prince once a beautiful mane kept by his l ve.He was thin.Namely because he had no idea about how to hunt the big game.He was war torn from his fight with Mufasa and other animals. He couldn't let her see him this way.He darted off and she followed quickly.He shot up into a narrow chasam hiding from her sight.~It was just my imagination.I'll never have a dad~ Nala thought glumly and walked back to pride rock. A pair of sad eyes watched her from a sad standpoint.He wanted to run to her.Hug her.Kiss her.Play with her.Teach her.Love her.But he would wait.....for a chance to hold his beloved daughter he hardly knew. Water cannot quench the thirst of love Nor can the floods drown it *** Scar waltzed non-chalantly into the elephant graveyard.He thought about how stupid the circle of life was.Living,birthing,eating, sleeping,dying.Letting each day seep into the next.Is this all that there was for a pride?For that one moment he had to envy his hyena allies."Kami.Kami-are you here". "Beloved!You're here"! The lovely hyena face dashed out to greet her only reason for living.She leapt up on her hind legs and wrapped her black paws around his neck.Her long,black hair mingled in his. "Oh,I like to see you when you're happy.What is wrong Taka". "My daughter is kept away from me".He didn't need to fill in any more details.They talked constantly and held no secrets from one another. "Your heart is dear to me,even when it is broken.You can let it out. Don't be scared to cry." "Oh Kami"!! He fell on her,sobbing into her satiny fur.She licked his mane and face and hushed him gently. "God will bring us all together.God brought you to me.I don't know what I'd do without you". "And I you.Kami,would you still love me even-even if I did something horrible?" "Would I ?! Stars know that Iove you." She wiped away the remaining tears from his handsome,green eyes. "Stay with me Kami.We will teach the lions that we are all equal. When I look into your soul and into their's I would rather be hyena". "You know there's no other place in the world I'd rather be than with you". CHAPTER THIRTEEN:When love and hate collide Kovu sat sadly under the stars.Memories of what he had flooded back to him.Those few fleeting seconds in his mothers warm grasp.Kovu walked over a clear pool looking down at a lion torn between love and love.Shani and Scar."May I sit down". It was Nala.The aging lioness took a seat beside him."Your father.Really,he was a good lion". The lion's ears pricked at the sound of his father being associated with good. "How did you know him"? Kovu asked. "Well,I'm his daughter".Nala said softly.Kovu's jaw dropped."I can never forgive myself for betraying him.I miss him so much". "I'm sure he knows what you did was right." Nala smiled slowly. "Maybe you should try talking to him". Nala got up and began to leave. "As if I hadn't tried." Kovu sad sadly."Have you spoke to him"? "No.I-I'm not worthy-not anymore.Kovu,Maybe you're trying to hear more than listen.Mamela rafiki.". Nala headed back to priderock. "You up there? I wish I could've grown up with you.I'm sorry I'm not the son you wanted." Kovu looked down into the reflecting pool as the wind slowly shifted the image.His reflection changed to a darker on with bright green eyes.His mane was longer and black as coal.Kovu gasped at the image."Kovu". It said lowly."No"! Kovu smacked the surface of the water angrily and ran as fast as he could back to pride rock. CHAPTER FOURTEEN:The child "My world is falling apart". Simba said sadly.Nala licked his cheek. "What am I going to do? " "Let your heart tell you,Simba".Nala murmered in a gentle voice."It whispers so listen closely." Simba smiled at her beautiful face caressed by the cold,silver light of the moon."Never,judge someone on what their blood means.You know who I really am and you still love me.....don't you"? Simba was shocked."Of course I still love you my queen.Nothing could keep me away from you". Nala hugged him.The two recalled faint memories. Sparkling waterfalls, glittering balls of glass water.The sweet sound of love singing it's song for them.But oh how faint it had become for them and oh how it wailed for Shani and the child of Scar. Simba slowly got up and sat at the mouth of the cave."Nala,you would never lie to me or keep a secret..right"? Nala was shocked."Simba!Never in all my life". "Then answer this one question.Who is your father". Nala's ears fell to the back of her head and she slowly kneeled. "But you know already...you want to hear it don't you?My father is , is,Scar". Simba was utterly mortified by what she had said."I have shamed you my king". "No matter what you say or what you do I will always love you my queen". Nala's eyes became wet with tears as her mate echoed her sires devoted words."S-s-s-simba I miss him so much.He meant so much to me.He loved me more than that stupid throne or anything he had or could have." Nala sobbed uncrontrolably at the floor of the cave. Simba tried to comfort her. "Simba,the fight is not over". Simba gasped at the figure at the mouth of the cave.No one could his featurs but his incredibly long mane whipped in unfelt wind and his green eyes peirced the darkness. "Who are you"? Simba asked. "Someone who only wants what's his,forgiveness". Lightning flashed,shattering the dark velvet that had consumed their home.The figure had vanished. Simba left the royal cave and darted across the plain."Daddy,I forgive you". Nala whispered. CHAPTER FIFTEEN:Counting blue cars Kovu pulled idly at the grass his head recalling the uncanny incident."Kovu". It was Simba the aging lion looked down at him sternly."You really love her don't you". "If you Nala's true blood would you still love her"? "She told me-and this discussions concerns you not me"! "Put yourself in my position!I love Shani and I am wrongfully persecuted!You don't even know me"! "Don't raise your voice to me boy"! Simba's eyes closed as he thought on Kovu's question."I see where this is going.I understand". "Maybe we should try to get to know eachother a little more your highness". Simba smiled. "You go to Shani tell her that a new prince is to be coronated." Kovu beamed and bowed respectfully and was off in a flash to Pride rock. "YOU TORE MY WHOLE LIFE APART!YOU TOOK EVERYTHING!EVERYTHING!!!" Simba screamed in rage at the sky."Everything....every..thing".. Simba collapsed in a tired heap as sleep consumed his weary mind. Simba was hunting in the grass watching the other Simba stalk a young elephant calf.The other Simba rushed into the kill when out of no where a huge bull rushed from the bushes.Simba cried out to him but the bull plucked Simba up and threw him like a rag doll.The other Simba screeched as his flaling body flew through the air.Simba fell to the ground.The bull elephant walked up to him and slowly changed to Scar."Scar"!! "Nephew,I'm so sorry". "No!No your not!" "Simba you must prepare yourself.It's coming". "What is you murderer." "Time,time,time,time". "What"? The darkness consumed them.All simba could see was his uncles lighted shilouette.Scar's form sunk and cringed in the dim light.It began sobbing uncontrolably."Simba,it goes so quickly,so quickly. Don't waste it.I have only to blame me and me alone.I'm so sorry". Simba slowly began to wake.He shook his head.As the wind shook his mane he heard it whisper-"Please forgive me." It faded out into the slowly lightening sky."So sorry..so sorry..so sorry"....... CHAPTER SIXTEEN:Songs ONE AND A HALF MONTHS LATER Kovu woke in his cave as Shani's shilouette came into veiw.She smiled beaming with unknown pride.She nuzzled him "Father". Kovu's sleepy face slowly converted to a smiling face of pure joy."Mother". Shani and Kovu shot out of the cave waking the king and queen who watched the two roll in the grass and play gently.Shani rolled on her back as Kovu put his ear to her stomach."What are we going to name her". She giggled pushing him off."Her?" "Or him". "Sarabi,Sarabi will be her name,Sarabi" Simba smiled happily and nuzzled his mate."The lion queen". He said beckoning to his beautiful daughter.Shani and Kovu climbed to the tip of pride rock talking happily about names.The pride woke up shaking their sleepy heads."Grama,grama,grama"!! Shani leapt on Sarafina licking her cheek."Argh!Off with ya". "Grandma I'm pregnant"! The pride's jaws dropped."Oh man that's the last thing I wanted to know.I'm a GREAT grandmother". Shani laughed and kissed her nose."Mommy!Daddy!This is the 'bestestest' day of my life". "Bestestest"? Kovu laughed in his low voice. "Shouldn't you tell you um 'parents' as well".Kovu laughed.Then he kicked up his heels in an exagerated skip."Mommy,daddy"!! The pride laughed.Shani was inside rough housing with her parents.Kovu entered the cave and Simba pounced on him with a playful growl."It's good to have a family again". They hudled in one unified group and butted heads with eachother. Nala and Simba looked at their powerful daughter and knew it was time."Shani,it-is time". Simba smiled at Shani.She stood dignified before them,then struted to the tip of pride rock.She looked before the land which was hers now.She threw her head to the sky,roaring to the heavens. The zebras threw their heads up.The wilderbeasts halted their steady grazing.The antelope freezed in their struts.Shani was queen. And the world resounded with song once more CHAPTER SEVENTEEN:Discision Isis lead her small pride across the lush pridelands as the sun began it's descent.The tangerene sky lighted the antelope and sabell as the lapped at the cool pools that dotted the savanna.She had betrayed him.He told her what he wanted but it was because of that idea.That damned notion that rotted her mind and seeped into her heart.But she wasn't doing it for her.Not even for him.Now it was time for it all to end and for it all to begin. To fight the unbeatable foe To hear with unbearable sorrow To run where the brave dare not go To right the un-rightable wrong To love,pure and chaste from afar To try when your arms are to weary To reach the unreachable star This is my quest,to follow that star No matter how hopeless,no matter how far To fight for the right without question or pause To march into hell for a heavenly cause And I know I'll be true to this glorious quest that my heart will be peaceful and calm When I'm laid to my rest..... The chill of the evening drifted through the pridelands.The evening air called the salmon pink flamingoes to the sandy side of the waterhole.Waterbucks scratched their thick hides against a young boabab tree.Water buffalo hollored for their young calfs.Gazelle flicked their tiny,white tails contently.The sweet purple flower's scent sailed through the air.A young baboon played with the heavy, sausage like fruits that fell from the kegila tree's.Flat topped acacia turned dark shades as the light dimmed.One by one,stars poked their heads from their daytime homes and showed their bright light. The crecent moon rose on the African plain. The dark pride passed the waterhole regardless of the other animals. Two jackals watched them pass.They were not their incosis.Strangers to the animals,the gawked at the ragged pride led by a golden lioness. The incosi of the wilderbeasts walked in front of her and bowed."Are you here for king Simba?I mean,are you family or friends"? "Neither.Now let me pass". Isis tried to step beside him but he quickly blocked her path. "I will not let anyone threaten my king and queen". "And I will not let a peice of food stand in my way"! The wilderbeast smacked her with his heavy head.The other animals jumped to attention."You lost your chance"! Isis jumped over his head and landed on his shoulder tearing furiously at the poor creature.The other lions clawed at his throat.He fell to the ground as the gnashing teeth consumed him. CHAPTER EIGHTEEN:MUTATIS MUTANDIS EVERYTHING CHANGES The lioness dragged herself south ward from the heat of the egyptian sands.The sand winds bit furiously at her face.The heat shimmered on the horizon.Her rib lined chest heaved up and down.She panted heavily as she pulled her foot another step.It took forever as she crossed another foot of scorching desert.Her war-torn hide stung rawly as the sandstorm whipped into it.Her eyes blinked painful tears in a desperate attempt to see.She left boody paw-prints on the sorched ground. The cracked and chisled ground met her aching feet as she collapsed in a nest of throns.She awoke in a few minutes.A high,jagged peak rose above her.She plunged her sharp claws into the rock and pulled herself up higher and higher.She slumped to the floor of a great gourge."Great,more climbing". She began to scale the gourge.Each pull was torture as she struggled just to stay awake. She breathed a sigh of releif as she landed in a soft grassy plain. The morning mist drifted off reveiling a beautiful land.In the center, a huge summit surrounded by lions.The plains were dotted with food and was teaming with life.She let the sleep consume her as her violet eyes shut. The lioness awoke in late afternoon.Guinea hens chirped and buzzed obnoxiously.In front of her,hidden in the grass was a young lioness busily tearing at a warthog."Hand it over sugar".The rogue growled angrily. "I killed it.This kill belongs to Sarabi's pride." The rogue leapt at the young lioness.She didn't really hurt her but it was obvious that she was an untrained lion.The rogue roared in her ear.The prider screamed and rubbed her ringing ear."I'm telling the queen"! "Yeah,go run to mommy." The prider ran off towards the summit as the rogue hungrily consumed the warthog. A dark lion watched her from the bushes and drank in her beauty.His heart woke from it's cold,lifeless hibernation.He stared at her wistfully."Be still my beating heart".He murmered.He put his paw to his chest and clenched his teeth as if the reawaking of love and passion seeped back into him was painful.His breath shook at the sight of her.He began to purr low in his throat.Summoning all the courage he had left,he walked out to her with his chisled head set high. She was lightly built but not skinny.She was the purest of golden colors,like the sun.She glistened like water and she was dainty and small.She had chisled muscles and looked as though she were a good fighter. The golden lioness eyed him.~Who is he?He wants my kill.He is handsome.He needs food.Very skinny,too skinny.So handsome~"Back off. It's mine fair and square"! "I won't take your kill.I just wanted to meet you.But there is more than enough".Scar said. "Alright.What's you're name"? "My name is Taka.But most call me..." He cringed.The name always reminded him of her,his mate."Scar". "That's a terrible name.Your old man do that to you"? "No.My brother did this to me". She nodded and turned her attention to the kill.The lion ate ravenously as if he hadn't had food in days.The pig was gone in a matter of minutes.The two licked the blood of their coats and layed on their backs rolling to cure their upset stomachs.Scar snored loudly with his feet suspended in the air.The lioness nudged him."Hey, Taka.Is there a waterhole around here"? "Not now,Sarabi.You're wearin' me out woman". The rogue burst out in a fit of laughter waking Scar from his sleep. "So is there a waterhole around here."? "Oh,yeah follow me". "Sounds like you have a mate". "Huh"? "Oh,you talk in your sleep". "Well,not anymore.You never told me your name". "Isis." "Unusual name." "Scar isn't exactly your everyday name eithter". Scar led her to a secluded spot that obviously hadn't been found by other animals yet.The waterfalls trickled off moss covered rocks. Rainbows of mist filled the air.Isis lapped up the water unaware that Scar was staring at her.She smiled shyly and slapped the icy water with her paw throwing water over he admirer.Scar shook himself and looked smugly at her as he jumped into the water.Isis wiped the water off her cheek.Scar suddenly grabbed her and pulled her in with a loud laugh.Isis gigled and pulled him under by his back legs.They swam under a cave.The insides of the caves sparkled magically with amethyst and other minerals.At that moment their eyes locked.Scar shook himself from the trance and ran on the shallow pools that dotted the inside.Isis giggled and joined him.They ran in synch.Scar squeaked as he fell into a deep pool. The rest of the afternoon was spent with hide and seek and quick rounds of tag.Isis was no match for Scar when it came to speed.Isis crouched behind a rock as Scar walked around smiling wickedly. "Gotcha"! Scar grabbed her and in a breif tussle he pinned her. "Pinned ya". "Well,now that you've pinned me...what are you going to do"? Isis smiled at him.Scar shook his head and layed in a heap of grass.Isis climbed up the hill he lazed on."I don't please you or you still love her". "No.But I'm not allowed to have a mate." "Who says you have to tell anyone"? Scar layed motionlessly as she dug into his mane."Beloved". He whispered. *** Isis awoke early the next morning at her mate's side.A cold wind blew across her heart extinquishing the fire.She would have to leave at least for a month.She didn't want him in any trouble.She pushed herself up and nuzzled him."I'll return soon my love". Scar snored and fell back to sleep.Isis turned and left sadly.The cold mist enveloped her and her heart as she dared not look back or even breath for the lion she called "love".The gold goddess left her claw mark in front of him.The triple slash.Her calling card and mark.A siymbol commonly seen on the western savanna and lea muati. He didn't stir as a tiny tear dropped from her eyes,staining the ground in a trail of saddness. *** In the quiet,stillness of the night,a black lion knelt in prayer. His crumbled heart rose into his throat.He had never humbled himself before anyone or anything,mortal much less deity.He stiffened his back up and bowed his chisled head to his breast. "Dear Aiheu,Please help me.I need your guidance.I've lost so much and for once I regret.I can feel sorrow but it's not the same.For once I do.I regret.I'm so sorry.I've lost my brother.My parents.My love,both of them.And my daughter.Oh,Aiheu!I besseach you ,if you must, cast me aside and bless little Nala.And..for what I will do- forgive me.God save my soul". The ragged lion,drenched in cold moonlight,sunk to the ground.His idea's that would play out soon took form in his mind. Mufasa crushed.Simba screaming.Nala snuggled under her mother,no where near him,crying uncontrolably.Crying for her friend and the lion she once called "Daddy". When he saw her say that his soul withered and died.She loved Mufasa. What was he?A rogue she knew nothing about.Letting his emotions loose he began to cry."I love you......Mufasa". *** Simba and Mufasa played loudly.Sarabi laughed and joined in on the fun.Sarabi and Mufasa rough housed happily.All signs of royal dignity melted away in their playful games."Tag"! Sarabi nudged Sarafina and N'goro.They joined in all the fun.The whole pride began to play with their rulers,careful not to hurt them. From a sad veiw,a young cub watched Simba and his father."At least you have a father".Nala wandered off to the back of pride rock to see the black lion again."I have returned beloved".It was abeautiful lioness she had never seen before.She was gorgeous and Nala's eyes widened at the site of her.Isis nudged Taka.Scar was obviously overjoyed to see again. They jumped on their hind legs and rock back and forth with theri paw around eachothers neck."Your mine at last.I'd follow you to the ends of the earth." "And beyond".Isis finished. They nuzzled eachother silently.Isis purred.They slowly walked off lovingly. Nala sighed as she couldn't help but think that her mother fit in where the other lioness was.The lion cub slowly stalked off past the happy pride.She curled up in a ball,keeping her ears down sadly. Simba's crumpled body lay on the floor of the great gorge.His eyes suddenly snapped open.Scar stood over him screaming. "KIIIIIIIINNNNGGG!!I AM THE KING!" The scene suddenly shifted to that of Scar and the golden lioness nuzzling eachother.Without warning,she threw him off the steep cliffs of priderock.He screamed. "NAAAAAAAAALAAA"!!! Nala reached out to catch him but he slipped through her paws as she screamed mournfully.She saw the look on his face.So sorry.So sad and desperate. Nala shook herself from the dream.Simba rubbed his head up against her neck."Are you okay,Nala"? "Yeah I'm fine how long have I been out". "Well,the sun set a while ago.The moon is almost past the great tree." Nala pushed her tired body up and walked up pride rock.The stars twinkled so brightly.One star.The brightest.Twinkled so much it made her eyes hurt.But it was a good hurt.Nyota approached her. "Nyota". "Yes great queen". "Do you see that star there.Next to the eye of the zebra.It's so bright.I've never seen it before." "I see the eye but no star." "I see it plainly.Are you sure." "I am positive". Nala smiled."Only fools are positive." "Are you sure"? "I'm posit-dang it!You little weasel.You always were so smart". Nala smiled as she gazed across the plain.Her smiled slowly melted as her eyes widened."Nala,I meen your majesty.What's the-" Nyota looked with her and suddenly bounded off."Sarafina!You better get up here". Sarafina squinted through her old eyes.Nyota and the other older lions huddled around her."Behold.The cubs have returned lions. " Simba had no idea what they were talking about.Nala scampered down the rock with her tail between her legs.She curled in a ball behind Simba.She shook tremulously."Simba-forgive and protect me my love". Simba had never in his whole life seen her cower.He put his paw on her shoulder.The pride steadily approached them."SIMBA!!" The lioness screeched.Simba paced up to face her. "This night your reighn ends.I'm taking back the rightful property of Taka". "You and what pride". Simba growled. She spat in his face.Simba rubbed his face.Kovu bravely stepped forward to Isis.She cocked her head.He had an incredible resemblance to her mate.Her eyes twicted back to her pride asking him to join. Kovu shook his head and stood,steadfast,next to Simba.The prides eyed eachother.Isis and her children rushed apon them with ear peicing battle cries.The pride of Simba returned the advance and got much more than expected.The powerful lions knocked each one down with unrestrainable fury.Nala watched helplessly.Isis and Simba fought bitterly.Isis smacked him to the ground with a crunch.The lion king roared in pain."You turn to deal with what he had." She unleashed her claws and ran them down his right eye.He roared.Nala felt her insides burn and rammed the old lioness in the abdomen. Kovu pushed of Bonja and bounded off to Shani who was being guarded by Timon,Pumbaa,and Kibeti."You must leave". "No!This is my throne and home I will fight for it!" "Think of the baby". Shani's angry grimace remained on her face as a tear stained her lovely,gold fur."I love you". Kovu licked the tear from her face. Shani,with her escort Kibeti,hid far behind the summit of Pride rock. Simba nodded to Kovu. The pride fought viciously and Simba began to get the upper hand with Isis or so he thought.Isis acted so scared and ran towards the peak of pride rock...where Scar had lost his life.Simba followed, unaware of the trap already in motion. Entwighteumeala mauled through the pride laughing as he shook old Yolanda by the nape of her neck.The lioness screamed horribly as the incredibly huge lion shook her viciously and mercilessly.Misha screamed as she saw her mother being torn so horribly.He shook her four-hundred pounds like a rag doll.The lion let her tattered body fly and it slammed into a rock with a crunch.Misha screamed and landed on his back clawing ruthlessly.The black lion shook her.She landed in a pile of dust looking up at him like a scared puppy."Well, aren't we pretty.And young at that." He showed his yellow teeth in a wicked smile.Her eyes filled with fear as she backed up,shaking,to a rock face.He approached her steadily. "Face me 'brother dear' ". He reeled around."Or are you too cowardly to face me instead of a cub". "I resent that". Misha murmered. It was Nala.She nudged Yolanda."I am...sor..ry..great one.I can no longer serve you".Misha pushed the queen away with a yowl of pain and greif.Entwighteumeala and Nala circled each other. "You could have picked a better day.My daughter,your neice's coronation." "It is a good day to die". They rushed apon eachother.Nala was much to fast for him and quickly averted his powerful slams.Pulling away from Misha and Yolanda,the two raged inside a cave. "Mother get up.Ya' gotta get up". "I-don't think--I can little one". Yolanda flopped back to the ground. "No there's nothin' you can't do.Now-NOW TRY AGAIN"! "I've taught you everything you need to know-now all you need to know is how to say goodbye". Misha shook her head."Remeber me.Nala says,Listen with your heart. It whispers so listen closely."Yolanda slowly died as her daughter looked on. The swift lioness Dodged the blows of her brother throwing hers in when his guard was down.He relied only on his strength.His bulky size made him slow and clumsy. "You dare to fight against your own father!You've betrayed him"! "I have not!You've betrayed him!He would have never wanted this way!Besides I'm not fighting against him-" She smacked him hard. "I fight against you". He lunged at her slamming her to the ground.He raised his massive paw- "I'll see you in hell".Nala growled. "You first". Kovu darted from the mouth of the cave throwing Entwighteumeala off of his mother-in-law and sister.Entwighteumeala shook his head and gazed at the lion infront of him.Kovu delivered the final blow. " No.It's your turn-" CHAPTER NINETEEN:THE GAME Simba searched in vain through the chasams for his enemy.Unware that two purple eyes watched her trap snap.Isis slowly and silently followed Simba.Simba stood on the pinacle of pride rock where he had fought his uncle.He looked down at the tragic scene below.Hunched over a dead body was Misha crying uncontrolably.Nyota and Isha fought with the tiring Aiheu.The other lions shadows could be seen.One by one he saw the shadows of feminine amazons dissapear and fall. Dhoruba's cub lay huddled in a small cave.Dhoruba's body lay crumpled in a lifeless heap in front of the cave.Nidigliani approached the cub. "I want my mommy"! "We all want your mommy honey tree". The baby sobbed into Nidiglianai's pale coat as they looked onto the dark rogue's soiled carcass.Lisani had her paws wrapped around Mheetu's motionless neck.She looked up and growled at the motionless king who could have prevented her heart from caving in. Kiasa limped around looking through her stung eyes.Lisani leapt apon her an quickly began to tear at her. "YOU!!NOW WHO IS THE REVENGE TAKER!!!YOU SHE-HYENA!!" Simba closed his eyes painfully and whispered-"Father,I'm no real king". With a roar,Isis jumped upon Simba.Simba roared and swung his paw out at her,missing her savage face.A roar smaller than hers but with equal fury caught her attention.Shani jumped upon her pride's assasin. Isis rolled down a hill falling in a pile of sun bleached bones. "Shani!I thought we told you to stay away"! "I am a disobedient child". Simba breathed a sigh of releif as a large number of his pride returned towards pride rock.None of them looked the least bit whole but they were alive.Nyota.Kibeti.Aligi.Lisani.Sarafina.Wazi.Isha. Misha.Beesa.Meeka.Sikeea. Shingalana.Naiomi.Niany.Kolo.Kopa.Na-Nala was missing. Kovu trotted up to Shani and Simba.He nuzzled his mate and queen. The next few precious seconds they'de cherish all their lives the next few would shake them.Isis screamed and attacked Simba.They watched in horror as Simba struggled with her. "Daddy"! "No!" Kovu darted in front of her blocking her path.Isis slammed him in the face throwing him acrost the rock.Simba,dazed,lied on his back as Isis jumped into the air and fell towards Simba. "NOOOO"!!! Nala leapt towards her and clutched the lioness to her chest.They fell and tumbled to the ground.Each time Nala hit the jagged edges of the cliff was twice the pain for Simba.Nala fell to the ground with a crunch of bones.Isis didn't move or breath and she never would again. The pride's lamenting wails filled the air with greif.Simba's roars of pain echoed throught his kingdom. The king nudged his queen."Nala,come on.Don't you leave me.DON'T YOU LEAVE ME"!!! "S-s-s-simba". Nala's green eyes shattered the darkness around her as they slowly fluttered open.Timon and Pumbaa bowed in reverence.Zazu bowed to her. "You'll be alright Nala.You'll be alright". CHAPTER TWENTY:THE CROSSROADS "SEE YOU AT THE CROSSROADS-SO YOU WON'T BE LONELY" -BONE,THUGS N' HARMONY Rafiki did what he could for her but knew that she probably would not see the rising of the sun.Sarafina stayed right by her side grooming her like she was her little cub again.Shani,too,stayed with her mother.Simba refused to leave her that night. The whole pride sleapt after the battle.Dhoruba's baby lay curled in Nidigliani's warm grasp with dry tears still frozen on her cheeks. Nala limped away from them.The pain was too much to bare for her to sleep.Laying down on the ground she looked across the dark blue horizon.Names for the children flooded her mind.~Tama or Thaba.Then there's Thembi and Mng'alizi.Mazimwi was her favorite by far.Spirit- it meant.Something she was sure she'd be in a matter of hours.A gazelle groomed her baby in perfect peace and content.Would she ever see her grandchild? Nala began to cry.A silent wind brushed off her tears. "Nala". A firm but gentle paw woke her from her sad reverence. She grunted as her eyes met nothing but darkness. "Daughter". Nala looked up,startled,it was a dark lion's body surrounded in a radiant light.He was not of great build but of incredible beauty.His chisled head sat high on his prominent shoulders surrounded by a golden halo.Nala's scarred face beamed with happiness.Each battered bruise seemed to heel and she was void of pain and sadnness.The world seemed to stop for Nala that moment. "How long can you stay"? "Long enough for you to come with me". Nala looked back to the sleeping pride.Back to Simba,Shani,and Sarafina all of whom would expect to see her there bright,happy,and alive. "Do not worry about them.They'll be alright". "Oh,Father.You never forgot me.Please,forgive me for forgetting you". "Nala,you never forgot me.I was right here". "Right where?". The lion pointed to her heart."Right here my little love.Right here".Another lion approached,he had a sienna mane and green eyes. "This is you son-Chaka" "My son.And such a lion.So handsome-like his grandfather". The dark one beamed. "Come my children,there is much to see".The lion's form dissapered.A long beam of light shot down from the heavens.It surrounded her in a blanket of warmth as the mist surrounded her. "Daughter,come home". Nala leapt into the cloud as it carried her up.The smile on her face and light in her soul was more radiant than the heavenly lights that surrounded her. ....she was going home. ***BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART,FOR THEY SHALL** ***SEE GOD*** ...AND THE WORLD WILL BE BETTER FOR THIS THAT ONE MAN SCORNED AND COVERED WITH SCARS STILL STROVE WITH HIS LAST OUNCE OF COURAGE TO REACH THE UNREACHABLE STARS AIHEU NE NABU!NE NABU NALA! NOYANA?PHEZULU.NITINI NOYANA BUTICO NGO KONA