Hauling her for a good while on his back, Ni headed towards the water and slowly began resting her head near the stream. Ni gently moved Kinu cautiously into the water careful not to dunk her. Submerging her cheek he kept her muzzle aloft with his paw allowing her to breathe normally. The swelling on her face had not gone down, and while asleep she was still moaning regularly in pain. Softly, Ni stroked her head trying to give comfort in her time of need even if she could not consciously appreciate it. As the time passed, he felt the waters chill start crawling up his arm. He could resist the urge for some time, but eventually began swapping paws while keeping her mouth above water. Scouring the water he searched for a rock that might better suit the job as opposed to his own paw. A few stones lined the bottom but nothing seemingly within arm’s reach. His mind wandered to the earlier part of the day. Across the stream, the blood still coated the ground where Kopa had sundered Zira’s remains. Checking the water once more, he found no evidence of it aside from the trail of blood leading into the stream. No bits or pieces remained within the water, at least any that were visible. He shuddered at the thought of Kopa ripping away at her again. He never knew such a side of him existed. He understood it though, if he was so certain it was her that had mutilated him, he could see wanting to deliver a little payback. Kinu’s body flinched and began to stir, moaning and squinting her eyes she finally began to wake, her hind legs movement caught Ni’s attention as he continued gently patting her head. 
“Hey, how you holding up?” He asked softly. She didn’t answer right away; she turned and stared into his body before shifting her glance upstream. 
“Where?” She eked out with her voice cracking.
“You’re ok Kinu, don’t worry. Were by the stream, keep your head in. You’ve got a nasty lump on your cheek ok?” He requested attempting to keep her still. Kinu began to struggle a bit, restless and worried she was trying to get out of the water. Ni was gentle with her, guiding her back in but she continued to resist. 
“Where’s Keyah?” She asked insistently trying to get up. Ni grabbed her and lowered her head back into the water hushing her. 
“She’s ok, she’s just fine. Kopa found her and Hakima’s cleaning up her wounds. She was talking and everything it’s just a couple nasty cuts. She will probably be back on her feet tomorrow.” He explained. Kinu seemed satisfied with the answer and submitted to Ni’s paws. Resting for a while, she watched the stream gently flow down with her one eye that wasn’t submerged. 
“My head’s cold.” She whined softly. 
“Well that’s good.” Ni replied with a chuckle. “Hakima always said you could use a cooler head.” Kinu closed her eyes, shaking her head at the poor joke. 
“How much longer do I have to do this?” She asked. 
“Oh I don’t know. A while though at least, otherwise your cheek could swell up bad and cover your eye for a few days.” He elaborated. 
“K.” She acknowledged. Ni began swapping his paws once again as his left was chilled too much. As his right paw took the duty of keeping her aloft, he draped his left across her body, attempting to pull her closer. Kinu shut her eyes and flinched as he tried, immediately she felt uncomfortable. 
“Don’t!” She protested softly. Ni quickly removed his paw and sighed. 
“Sorry, I just don’t want the rest of you to chill up. Your head has been in the water a long time.”
“I’ll be fine, just don’t.” She reiterated. Nodding he laid his head down next to hers. 
“Still uncomfortable around us guys huh?” He asked. Ni waited but she didn’t answer, taking it as a no he continued. “It’s alright, I understand. If I was in your place, I might feel the same way.” Slowly she shook her head. 
“You don’t understand; don’t feed that bull crap to me.” She dismissed. 
“You’re wrong Kinu, maybe I don’t understand it like you do. But I can tell how much it must of hurt, if you’re withdrawing from someone who loves you, someone trying to help you.” He carried on. Kinu couldn’t help but laugh. 
“You don’t love me.” She quickly retorted. Ni slid a little closer to her face and gently began to stroke her head. She shuddered from his touch, angry at him as if he was forcing himself upon her. 
“I don’t love you romantically, no. But this is the first real family I’ve ever head. You, Hakima, Asani, Amri, everyone. I love them all, that’s why I protect them. And believe me; I wouldn’t sit near a cold stream keeping your head above water if I didn’t love you.” He explained. Giving her cheek a quick kiss he withdrew his head and rested it a little distance from her. She gently wiped her cheek, suppressing a whimper. 
“What’s your game?” She demanded raising her head up. Ni lowered her back into the stream and sighed.
“What do you mean?” He asked. 
“You think helping me down here will make me fall for you? Is that it?” She barked angrily at him. Ni shook his head in disbelief; it was really starting to bother him now. He knew Kinu was a bit of a male hater, but this was pushing it. 
“Didn’t realize the cold made your head thicker.” He quipped. 
“Shut up.” 
“Fine.” He replied, slipping his hand out from under her. Dunking in she swallowed  a good mouthful of water and spat up the rest. Coughing she watched as Ni got up and started walking away. 
“Hey! What’s the big idea!?” She shouted between coughs.
“You want to do everything on your own, keep your own head aloft. I’m going to get something to eat, stay there until I come get you.” He ordered. 
“Hell with that, I’m coming to.” She stated. Ni swung himself around and glared straight into her eyes. 
“Get your head back in the water, now!” He shouted. Kinu staggered back at his tone. She rarely heard him shout, deciding not to provoke him further she fired a leer of her own back at him and settled back into the water. Dipping her head in, she tried to find a comfortable position to rest. Her shoulder, chest and head were submerged along with her paw to support her. It was cold, uncomfortable and strangely hollow without anyone nearby. She wasn’t sure if it was just Ni’s company she missed or just anyone’s. It was rare that she ever found herself apart from Keyah or Hakima and Saeska, she loved resting near there warm bodies. This was different though, it was cold, in pain and lonely. She didn’t like it, but she did enjoy one thing, the sound of the water. Though cold, it was soothing to listen to with her one ear submerged within the stream catching all the low rumble of the rushing water, and one above hearing it brush against the rocks and earth across the shores. With a shudder; she closed her eyes to rest, deciding to embrace it for what she could. Her mind wandered off, thinking of what had happened earlier in the game trail. Going over every detail she tried to come to terms with what had gone wrong to leave her in this predicament. She cringed at the thought of the horns cracking her across the face. The sparkles she saw when they hit, followed by the dizzy and fuzzy sensations before she lost consciousness. As her mind went over it again and again and wondered onto other stories. As if she was having a Saeska moment and day dreaming for a while. It was relaxing, thinking of the times she played alongside Keyah as a child, and provoking Asani and Ni with their jokes and pranks. Suddenly a slip from her paw dunked her head in the water and abruptly she shot up. Water sunk into her nose and mouth and left her helplessly coughing. Ni dropped a buffalo leg and rushed over to her side, patting her back. 
“Easy easy, did you slip or something?” He asked. 
“Yeah.” She replied between coughs. Looking over she saw the large hunk of meat lying on the ground nearby. Looking up she saw the sky had completely darkened as well, it was a shock to her. “How did it get dark so fast, and how did you get here so quick?” She asked in wonderment. Ni gave her a strange look and turned to the food. 
“What do you mean quick? I ate a bit, told everyone what was going on. Took forever to cut this damn leg off to, not to mention haul it here.” As Ni explained Kinu felt sharp pains in her arms and shoulder. Her ear as well stung quite badly. Shaking out her paw she tried to shrug it off, the sensation of pins and needles prickled at her paws as a painful ache ran the rest of its length. Ni noticed her shaking her paw out, cringing in pain. “What’s wrong?” He asked urgently. 
“My paw hurts pretty bad, and my ear!” She cried. Walking over he paused and briefly took a step back from her. 
“Mind if I touch you?” He asked somewhat sarcastically. She nodded eagerly and gave him her paw. Ni felt it right away, it was cold and completely soaked. Grabbing her head he tilted it and felt her ear and neck with his cheek. It too was drenched and freezing cold. “You fell asleep in the water? How’d you even manage that?” He asked. 
“I.. I don’t know.” She stammered. “I really fell asleep?” She asked in disbelief. Ni’s eyes widened as he shook his head. 
“You’ve gotten pretty cold, how else could this of happened?” He replied grabbing her paw once again. “Here, you gotta warm up a bit. Get some feeling back in this paw.” He explained rubbing vigorously he squeezed his paws between hers and worked, circling over and over rapidly he tried to get the blood flow going through. He struggled a bit keeping his balance, dropping her paw periodically and picking it up again. She laid down, allowing him to settle himself down as well and continued stroking her frigid front paw. As the feeling came back, she actually found herself enjoying the sensation of him working so vigorously. Ni changed to massaging her arm forcing the blood down, rubbing from her elbow right to her fingers. While the pain was easing in her arm, she felt the chill across her body. It seemed the waters had left her quite cold and ached along her back and stomach. Ni met her eyes and looked to her ear. Her cheek caught his attention though with a smile. “Hey, that’s looking a lot better!” He informed her. 
“What?” She asked, confused. Gesturing to his cheek he insisted. 
“Give it a feel.” Kinu raised her paw and examined her injury. The swelling had gone down a fair amount. The skin was still quite tender though, she could feel the indent from the cut the buffalo left. 
“Not so bad.” She agreed, letting a chatter escape from her teeth.  
“A lot better than when we found you.” Ni stated. Reaching for her paw again he could hear the chattering faintly coming from her mouth. She was still trembling, no doubt from the cold of the water. “You alright?” He asked, before he resumed his massage. Her head swinging back and forth she seemed almost dizzy. 
“Just, cold.” She submitted with another chatter escaping. Ni shut his eyes tight, he knew what he had to do, he had to warm her up. She wasn’t going to like it, not a damn bit, but he had to try. But first was to deal with the water still in her fur. 
“Alright, get up. You have to shake out as much water as you can. Get it all off your shoulder, neck everything.” He ordered. Kinu complied and slowly got up. Shaking a few times Ni saw a few droplets spray from her body as she shook. He asked her to do it a few more times, checking every now and again just to make sure she was dry enough. When he was satisfied he guided her back down and moved his body parallel to hers. “You’re not going to like this, but too bad.” He said, swinging his paws over her body he lowered himself on top of her placing her head beneath his. Immediately she protested. 
“No!” She cried, trying to shake him off. Rolling onto her side she tried to get on her back to kick him off. Ni didn’t afford her the chance, bounding off he backed up and gave her some space. “Don’t ever try that again!” She barked. Ni shook his head disappointed in her, she still didn’t trust him. 
“Fine, here.” He said quietly. Grabbing the buffalo leg he carried it over to her and dropped it across her paws. “Eat up.” 
“Just go back home, can’t believe you tried to take advantage of me like that!” She protested. Ni’s face contorted, this downright infuriated him. All the help he offered and she accuses him of something like that. 
“Hey! That was not what I was doing! For your information I heard your teeth chattering and could see you were freezing cold. I was going to warm you up, but clearly you prefer being frozen, bitch!” He fired back angrily. She turned away from him disgusted. Ni paused as his face sunk; he caught himself in his anger knowing he had taken it a little far. Though her behavior wasn’t much better, he was older and knew he should be a bit more responsible. Sighing he bowed his head. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean that.” She met his eyes for a moment and looked away again. Ni slowly walked closer toward her unsure if she would swat him or just continue to face away. Leaning in closer to her face he kept his head low trying to get her attention. “Hey, I said I was sorry. I took it too far but, you’re not letting me help you here and it’s frustrating.” He explained. 
“I’ll be fine ok, you can go home.” She whined, still refusing to look him in the eye. 
“Forgive me?” he pleaded. She glared at him firmly but couldn’t hold her anger. She was cold, hungry and though the swelling was down she still felt a fair amount of pain from her injury. 
“Yes, forgiven. Now go on home.” She agreed just wanting him out of her face. Ni nodded and turned around aiming towards home. 
“When you get back, best get close to someone right away. You’re putting yourself at serious risk sitting out here in the cold like this ok?” Ni advised.
“What do you mean?” She asked, letting another chatter escape. 
“You’ve been sleeping in the water. Your fur is drying but it’s still damp, you’re going to get colder if you don’t get close to someone for heat soon. Get a good chill in you and you’ll end up sick. I might even just send Hakima out here to lay on top of you for a while. See if you have any luck shaking her off.” He joked as he wondered back towards home. She seemed in disbelief still, how can you get sick from being cold she thought. 
“Are you serious?” She asked. Ni stopped walking off and plopped down on the grass covering his face. 
“Seriously? After all the fucking help.” He whispered. “Yes I’m serious!” He called back. Bowing her head she could feel the lump in her throat forming. He really was trying to help her, and with all the stress of the days hunt it may have just taken a toll on her. 
“Ni, come back!” She called out. Ni paused heaving a sigh. 
“What now?” He whispered quietly. He gave it a moment, hoping maybe she would let it go. 
“Please?” She called again. 
“Damn it!” He mouthed swinging around he started his way back. He lowered his head and wondered back over towards the stream where he was certain he was going to either have to deal with another tongue lashing. Staring down at her paws and the meat strewn across them he waited a moment before asking. “What do you want?” Kinu’s sniffling caught his attention. She was shaking her head, wiping at her eyes trying to stop herself from crying. 
“Look I’m sorry alright?! It’s been a long day, and my heads killing me and now I’m out here with just you around and I’m cold.” She cried. Ni was awe struck, was she really apologizing to him? Leaning down he put his head alongside hers offering his mane, she didn’t hesitate to lean in, letting the few tears escape. 
“I forgive you.” He said quietly.
“Thanks.” She whimpered pulling away from him. 
“Did you want me to help you warm up now?” He asked. This time she nodded eagerly. 
“Please.” She insisted. This surprised him once again; maybe it was just the day’s events taxing her patience. Lining himself alongside, he stepped over her body and gently lowered himself down. The shock of his body still frightened her, but this time she would allow it. Ni settled atop, his paws straddled beside hers while his head nestled alongside hers. 
“Go ahead and eat.” He encouraged. Kinu dug in and began feasting on the meal that had been sitting across her paws for so long. Ni had to maneuver his head now and then just to avoid the quick snap ups she would make pulling the meat from the bone. With little effort she had stripped the bone, soaking her fur in bits and pieces of meat. “That didn’t take long.” He said with a chuckle. 
“Yeah, I was hungry.” She smiled agreeing. Kicking the bone away she started bathing her paws, cleaning the juices that had seeped into her fur from the meal. Ni could feel her body was finally warming up now. She hardly seemed to notice him sitting atop as she bathed but he could tell now that her teeth were not chattering, and she was definitely not shivering. 
“All warmed up now?” He asked casually. Kinu stopped bathing for a moment. 
“I guess so.” She answered softly. 
“Want me to get off you then?”
“I suppose.” She agreed. Ni lifted himself off and stepped back over. Giving a nice long stretch, he shook out his fur and yawned. 
“We should really head back. Everyone is probably asleep by now.” Ni said during his yawn. Kinu nodded and began following him back towards home. 

Arriving home Ni and Kinu found there assumption mostly true. Kopa and Keyah were cuddled close together as usual and had fallen asleep. Saeska, Amri and Hakima were also cuddled close as they slept but it was Asani who was sitting up in wait. 
“Hey, Asani!” Ni whispered loudly. Asani turned towards them and rushed over. 
“Where have you two been?” He whispered loudly as well. 
“We weren’t gone that long, I brought the food over a little bit ago.” Ni pointed out. 
“Everyone was going to sleep around then. Amri asked me to stay up, wait for you to get back.” He explained. “What were you two doing anyway? You knocking her tail end?” Both Ni and Kinu shook their heads at him. Kinu in particular seemed disgusted by Asani’s assumption. “Oh right, you don’t like males, my apologies.” 
“Go to sleep Asani, were home.” Ni suggested. 
“Done, and done.” He agreed leaving the two. 
“Night Kinu.” Ni said wondering away. 
“Uh, night Ni.” She stammered. She headed towards Hakima, Saeska and Amri looking for a place to settle in. Saeska was lying almost on her back asleep with her mother’s paw dangling across her chest. She lay on her side while Amri had his body tucked close to hers. Kinu couldn’t really find a spot next to them without disturbing them. Turning around she saw Keyah and Kopa cuddled in their usual pose, locked in each other’s arms with her head resting on his neck. She honestly wondered how in the world Keyah could sleep like that. Ni and Asani had found spots not too far from one another but the thought of sleeping aside Asani made her shudder. She gathered up her courage and slowly found her way over to Ni’s resting body. 
“Hey, you asleep yet?” She asked. Ni looked up and smiled. 
“I’m quick, but not that quick.” Replying with a yawn. 
“Look, I was just. I was wondering since, you know. You helped me out so much today. Brought me food and, you know other things.” She clamored to say. Ni raised a paw to get her to stop. 
“What’s up?” He asked calmly. She scrambled to think of how to say it, but nothing really came to mind, the pressure of the moment was getting the better of her. 
“Well, Saeska and them are all asleep. I don’t. I mean I kind of.” 
“Do you want to stay with me tonight?” Ni asked, concluding the question for her. 
“I suppose, since you asked.” She agreed quickly. Ni laughed as she laid down nearby. Pulling her closer he let his paw drape over her back. She wasn’t satisfied with that though, she wanted the warmth she felt earlier. She wanted to know why her sister liked sleeping like she did in Kopa’s arms. “Here.” She insisted wraping her arms around him. Ni was shocked at how close she flung herself into him. She placed her head in his mane and waited for Ni’s arms to enclose her. Wrapping her up he locked her in his arms and embraced her. “Oh this isn’t bad.” She said quietly. 
“I don’t get it.” Ni whispered. 
“Am I doing this wrong?” She asked. 
“No no, it’s just how do you go from not wanting me to touch you, to this in one night.” He wondered. 
“I don’t know. Guess I’m just strange for a frozen bitch.” She quipped. 
“Hey now, I won’t hear that.” 
“It’s alright, tonight I really was acting like one. I should have known I could trust you.” She said softly. 
“So this is your way of making it up?” He asked. Nodding she agreed with his assumption. 
“Yeah, that works.” 
“Works for me to.” He agreed. Nuzzling into his mane she moaned with pleasure from the warmth of his body. 
“Good night.” She whispered. 
“Night Kinu.”

As the sun washed over their pride, Amri and Hakima were the first to awaken. Giving each other brief cuddles and kisses they checked on their daughter to see if she was awake. Amri smiled and laughed though at the sight of her, Saeska was lying on her back, paws strewn out in every direction as her tongue was left dangling out of her mouth. 
“I don’t even! How does she do that?” Amri laughed heartily. Hakima settled her laughter.
“I honestly do not know. Such a wonder our daughter.” She stated with a smile. Chuckling a few more times they walked a bit further out, seeing Asani still asleep they turned their attention to Kinu and Ni. Hakima gasped and smiled at the sight of the two, Kinu was still wrapped up in his arms sleeping soundly. Hakima walked over to their side and leaned in close to Kinu’s injured cheek. She examined it carefully, noting the swelling had gone down substantially. 
“Good, it has settled it seems.” 
“So has Ni.” Amri added.  
“Oh I don’t know.” Hakima doubted with a giggle. “We’ll see what she says when she wakes.” Amri wrapped his head around Hakima’s and cuddled her close. 
“I hope they’re together. He’s such a good kid, he deserves a fine mate.” Amri whispered to her. 
“Mmm, agreed.” She cooed. 
“Thirsty? I could use a drink.”
“Yes, let’s head down to the pond.” She agreed and strolled towards the south to find there watering hole. 
“How long do you think we can stay here?” Hakima asked her husband. 
“Oh a while I think. This territory was abandoned recently enough, and the game is plentiful for now. You were out on the trail, how did it look?” 
“The herd was large, fairly well fed it seemed. There’s little antelope or zebra nearby but it seems there’s no heavy game.” 
“Ahh, hippos and rhinos?” He asked. Hakima nodded before continuing. 
“The season will probably change in a few weeks, we have been dry a long time.”
“That’s true, no rain aside from the good storm about a week ago.” He agreed.
“Yes, which means we may have to seek more reasonable shelter later.” Amri shook his head hesitantly. 
“We just got them settled here; finding a good den or forest cover can wait a few more weeks. Let’s get Kopa trained up first and after that, we’ll see.” 
“Sounds reasonable.” Hakima agreed. Arriving at the pond they took a good long drink and settled down nearby. Gazing into the open savannah they felt relaxed with the crisp morning air. Off in the distance Asani was beginning to wake; and Saeska’s dangling paws were still clearly visible. Amri chuckled again at his daughter’s odd sleeping position. 
“So if Ni takes Kinu, who will take Saeska I wonder.” Amri thought aloud. 
“Saeska is not ready Amri.” Hakima dismissed. 
“She may be, when the wet season starts. That’s what worries me.” 
“Worries you?” She asked. 
“I don’t think she’ll take Asani, she may want Ni or Kopa. I know Asani’s got a tough hide but, he’s going to be hurt if he doesn’t find a companion for at least one birth of cubs.” He elaborated. 
“You worry about things that cannot be controlled my love.” 
“I worry about everything lately; perhaps my age is getting the better of me. My patience is beginning to wear thin, and I worry for who will guide our pride in my absence.” Shaking her head Hakima nuzzled at his shoulder. 
“Do you plan on going somewhere?” She joked. Amri rubbed his eyes with a sigh. She could see how much it was distressing him, getting up she climbed on his back and placed her paws on his shoulders. “Head down.” She softly whispered. Amri groaned with pleasure as he settled his head. Hakima began gently kneading into his mane, working up to his neck and slowly down his shoulders. Amri loved the rocking motion, each paw massaging him as her fingers gripped and released. She rubbed him a good while before she paused, lowering her muzzled to his lower back. Softly she kissed along his spine and worked her way up, her lips parting his mane and finding their way to his ear. Amri closed his eyes, embracing the warm whisp of her breath breezing his ear, it tickled down his back as she gently kissed and licked about. “You will not go anywhere without me, I couldn’t bare losing you.” She whispered. 
“I could never be without you. You are part of my very being.” He replied. Rolling over he met her face to face, his eyes slit and his face so relaxed. “I give to you my love, my heart, until the last sun sets. To the end of time and memory.”
“My heart belongs to you, in this life or any other. My body is yours to caress, my lips to yours never parting, my spirit to yours ever bound.” Hakima closed her eyes and kissed Amri softly and slowly. She felt his paw creep up her side pulling her closer, she joyfully took into his body and held fast to his lips.
“Amri!” Asani called out. Sharply Hakima and Amri broke away turning to Asani who was running up to them.
“Boy what is?-“ 
“We got hyena’s! There close.” He announced catching his breath.

Racing back Amri met with Kopa and Ni who were watching the trio of Hyena’s off in the distance. Ni was pacing back and forth, making himself quite visable to them. 
“Any movement from them?” Amri asked. Asani shook his head. 
“They came up when they just saw Saeska on her back, when Ni and I got up they ran off.” He explained. 
“They were going for Saeska? Where is she, is she hurt?” Amri pleaded. 
“No no, she’s just fine look.” He said pointing towards Kinu and Keyah who had Saeska cuddled between them. “There fine, but these three got to die.” Amri gave his approval as the four of them began moving in. 
“Ni, what do you want me to do?” Kopa asked. 
“Stay close, kill anyone that seems to be getting the better of us.” It wasn’t what Kopa wanted to hear, he was eager to fight for them but he accepted Ni’s answer. As they approached Amri and Asani called the Hyena’s out, growling and spitting at them. The trio shook their heads, backing off a bit. 
“Stupid lions! Everywhere we go there picking off our prey!” One of the males shouted. The other male seemed to be helplessly laughing. 
“We will give you only on chance to flee, hounds. Take it, or we’ll take your hides!” Amri threatened. The one female strut in front scoffing at him. 
“Figures, all we do is stroll around looking for breakfast, and we get a puffed up geezer who thinks he’s runnin the joint!” She retorted. The male started poking her shoulder and pointing to Kopa. “What’s up Banzai?” 
“Hey Shenzi, get a load of scar face out there. Wonder how many times he’s been whipped up on.” Banzai mocked pointing to Kopa. Kopa let out a roar staggering the hyena’s back a bit. 
“Why don’t I show you what I can do then you butt ugly mutt!” Kopa mocked back. Once again the other male was helplessly laughing. 
“Kopa, easy we have this.” Ni assured him. Shenzi’s eyes lit up a bit hearing the name. 
“Whoa whoa whoa, hold on a second there fuzz for brains. What did you say his name was?”
“None of your business!” Kopa shouted back. Shenzi looked to the others then leaning in she questioned.  
“Kopa? As in Simba’s son Kopa?” She asked. The words rung in his head, taking him away from the fight. The name, Simba. 
“My father, is Simba?” He whispered. 
“Oh ho this is too good! Little baby Kopa all grown up, too bad it looks like someone cut you into deformed zebra!” She mocked. Ed still laughing starting poking at her side. “What Ed! What is it?” She asked still laughing. Shenzi noticed now that Asani was prowling in closer and was moving in to attack.
“Uh oh.” Banzai said, folding his ears down. “We gotta roll!” He shouted leading the other two away with Asani in hot pursuit. Kopa stared at the ground, the name still ringing through his head. Simba, my father’s name is Simba. It’s true, I know it is. He thought to himself. Ni sighed in relief, watching Asani chase off the hyena’s. Looking to Kopa he pat his back waking him from his day dream. 
“Ya alright kido?” He proudly asked. 
“Simba, that name. It’s my father’s name.” He replied. 
“Heh, so the hounds at least knew about you. Not surprising, with the lioness in the water and now these hounds we’re probably fairly close to your old home.” Ni said giving it some thought. “Hey Amri, where did you pick him up anyway.” 
“Was a fair way from here I’m afraid. The stream does lead to about the area I found him, but unless I’m mistaken it’s a good walk from here.” 
“How far?” Kopa asked. 
“Well, the stream back there is fed from a slightly larger river heading off to the west. It should curve through the forests far off to the horizon there and then cut into a gorge. After that, it’s a little bit of a climb but should lead there.” Amri recollected. 
“So, like a few days?” Kopa asked. 
“Oh, a week at least. Getting through the forest quickly enough is tricky but finding the right paths up through the valleys in the gorge can take days.” 
“Not planning on leaving us, are ya?” Ni asked cautiously. 
“No, I just thought if it was close maybe go see it, but a week? Not a chance.” Kopa explained.
“I thought you didn’t want to see your family?” Kopa shook his head and grunted, he didn’t feel like getting caught up in his head today. 
“Bah, forget it. The hyena’s just threw me off knowing my father. Don’t worry Ni, I’m not going anywhere.”
“Ok.” Ni said with a smile. Asani finally returned, huffing and puffing from chasing down the hyena’s. 
“Hey, I’m back.” He announced. 
“Welcome back my boy.” Amri bowed. 
“Chased em a good while. I smacked the laughing boy a little bit but he was still looking all goofy faced even out cold.” 
“Yes, something was off about him. He didn’t even speak.” Amri agreed. 
“Alright, well Scars you ready to start training again?” Asani asked turning to him. 
“Yeah! Let’s go!” He agreed and followed alongside him and Ni out into the open savannah. 

Ni stood Kopa before him and Asani and talked amoungst each other. Deciding how to train him today and maybe work out a form of regiment for him to really go through. Asani cleared his throat and wiped his face off ready to address Kopa. 
“Alright kido so here’s what we’re going to do. Ni will work on your technique with you daily, when he’s done with you I get you for strength training. After a bit of rest, you’ll spar it out with us until we feel like wrapping it up and heading home, sound good?” He asked. Kopa smiled and nodded, he was eager to get started. Having Keyah as his mate was all the incentive he needed to want to join. 
“Sounds good. Let’s get started!” He agreed. 
“K good, Ni he’s all yours. I’m going to go arrange something for his strength training.” Asani informed him swinging around and heading off. 
“Alright Kopa, let’s get some more advanced techniques down today shall we?” Ni said firmly. Kopa bowed and agreed. Together they started working on what to do when pinned and attacked from different angles. Ni showed him how to break free from being pinned down, and also how to secure an opposing male while on top. Kopa was taking to the lesson well, he had a natural knack for combat it seemed. Ni’s only complaint was when he really applied force, that it was soft and weak. Thankfully this was the target Asani would work towards. As he took him, Asani arranged for the Hakima and Saeska to repeat their performance from the previous day. Nailing another buffalo, Asani forced Kopa to haul the creature around. Lifting it on his back over and over, Asani made him focus on his total arm and leg muscle through this workout. Taking him running to build up his stamina, throwing in jumps and different methods of running he kept Kopa panting through the afternoon. Flopping onto the ground, the trio took their break and chatted about what to do just afterwards. The sparring was mainly to show Kopa how to look for openings and exploit them. How to keep focused in a fight, where to look on an enemy and how to handle two males at the same time.
“Kopa, you gotta stop eating blows to the face like that.” Asani complained. 
“Nothing about that sounded suggestive.” Ni quipped. 
“Shut up. Seriously Kopa, where are you looking when you fight?” He asked. 
“Usually at your eyes.” He answered unsure. Asani groaned and covered his face.
“Nothing about that sounded suggestive either.” Ni quickly threw in. Asani seemed unimpressed and shrugged off the comment. 
“No! You don’t look at the eyes. Looking at my eyes, you don’t see this coming.” He stated swatting Kopa’s cheek. 
“Ow!” He complained.
“Or this, or this and this.” He added flinging a few quick shots. Kopa shook off the blows as his chin was abducted by Asani’s paw. “The chest, look at the chest. You watch the body, the attacks are coming from the body. Now you don’t fixate on it like a moron, you just let your eyes relax there so you can see what’s coming.”
“Ok I got it.” Kopa complied. Resuming their fight, Kopa was showing a bit better responsiveness to anticipating blows. He knocked away the first few that Asani swung at him but was still catching the odd blow to the chin and cheek. Satisfied with what he had learned for the day they sent themselves home. Kopa collapsed beside Keyah who giggled at him panting and exhausted from the days training. 
“How did it go?” She asked. Kopa didn’t answer, just groaned in pain from the days training. Darting over he turned his attention to her. 
“How are you holding up? The cuts I mean?” He asked eagerly. Keyah giggled and reached in to stroke his head. 
“There fine, a little itchy and annoying but fine.” She assured him. 
“Good, glad to hear.” He said raising his muzzle to hers. She moaned as they kissed before Kopa let his body flop back on the ground. “That was fun today.” 
“Training?” She asked. 
“Yeah, starting to get it.” He added. “I’m guessing we’re right back into it tomorrow.” 
“You got that right kido.” Ni butted in as he passed by. “Be ready to get up bright and early, I want to finish this time before dinner.” 

As the days carried on, Ni, Asani and Kopa continued their training well. His stamina and strength the only inhibiters he suffered with at the start were finally wearing away. Keyah noticed a good tone forming in his arms and legs, though he was nowhere near as robust as Asani he was becoming much more solid and appropriate for his size. Kopa actually became fond of sparring with Asani since he was much less likely to hold back, and Kopa wanted the real experience of fighting a full on fight. Asani as well seemed to be warming up more so to Kopa, at least to some degree. Though he wouldn’t call him by name, he developed patience for him that he never acquired before. As the training went on, Kinu and Ni had formed a fair friendship since the night at the stream. Though she isn’t quite as affectionate, she does spend a few nights here and there with Ni sleeping at his side. Though she has returned to her reluctance to sleep in his arms, worried the others might think them mates. Keyah and Kinu’s wounds healed up quite well though a faint scar remains upon Keyah’s side. Its definition hard to find though as the only visible remains of it was a slight parting of fur where it had not grown back. As for Amri, Hakima and Saeska, Amri monitored the territory carefully for any foreign intruders. Sweeping wide area’s he found next to no occupants save for a stray leopard he chased off and away from the game trail. Hakima and Saeska did a little training of their own, Hakima spoke to her of mating and what she might desire to do. Saeska’s response was very typical though saying she would find one when she felt like it, though she had a fair attraction to Kopa. Hakima also went over how to guide any future cubs in the pride if they were female. How they might come to her for advice and guidance since she was the daughter of the prides respected elders. Though she remained very quiet during her mother’s stories, nothing ever truly escaped Saeska’s ear. She is very distant at times, lost in her own thoughts but for her quirks she is extremely smart and receptive. A quality she shows most during her brief arguments with her mother. The day began as usual, Kopa off to his training with the boys however Amri intercepted this time by grabbing Kopa. 
“Hold on Kopa, I would like to train with you today.” Amri informed him. Kopa blew a smile across his face but he couldn’t help but wonder why Amri chose today. 
“Ok! That alright with you two?” He asked turning to Asani and Ni. They looked to each other and nodded not wanting to question Amri’s wisdom. 
“Yeah, sure sounds fine.” Ni agreed. Amri lead Kopa away, they didn’t talk until he found a place he felt comfortable to settle. 
“So, Kopa. How is your training going with the boys?” He asked sitting down before him. Kopa sat across and cleared his throat. 
“It’s going great. My arms and legs are getting stronger and Ni has shown me a lot.” 
“Well that’s good!” 
“I’m really eager to join the pride.” Kopa added. Amri smiled and nodded. 
“Yes, I can see that. Tell me though Kopa, what memories have returned to you now. What of your old home do you see?” Amri inquired. Kopa closed his eyes and thought for a moment. There was only one memory lately that was really preoccupying him. 
“My mother. I can finally see her again.” He answered softly. 
“I see. Miss her do you?” 
“Yeah of course. But I can finally see her face. In every memory, she’s smiling, holding my father, bathing my sister.” He recalled trailing off. 
“Do you wish to see them again?” Amri asked. Kopa opened his eyes slumping his head down. 
“You guys keep asking me that as if my answer will change.” 
“Would take a cold heart to not want to see the ones you love.” Amri advised.
“I don’t want to talk about this Amri, if it’s alright I’d just like to train with the others if this is what you brought me out here for.” Kopa quickly replied. Taking a deep breath, Amri gazed into Kopa’s eyes. 
“That’s a shame.” He whispered. 
“Please, don’t push me on this. I don’t want to go home ok, I love Keyah, and I’ll do whatever it takes to be with her.” He insisted. 
“I see. Well I apologize for prodding; I know it’s not any of my business.” 
“No don’t, don’t apologize. Look I know what you’re asking but the question is just getting old. I want this to be my family, can you promise me that? Can you promise me I’ll join this pride?” Kopa pleaded. Amri continued gazing into his eyes, he knew Kopa wanted this badly, but something in his mind made him wonder if the buried memories in Kopa’s heart would one day tell him otherwise. 
“I promise you Kopa, someday you will truly join our pride.” Amri agreed. Kopa blew a smile across his face and threw his arms around Amri. 
“Thank you!” he sighed in relief. Amri chuckled and released Kopa from his arms. 
“Well, with that settled perhaps we should do some training. My methods are a bit, different then Asani’s and Ni’s. You know what you’re doing I would hope, now let’s see how you adapt.” Amri lectured. 
“I’m ready!” Kopa announced readying himself for a match. 
“Good, then close your eyes.” Kopa seemed confused but complied and closed his eyes. Slowly, Amri crept around Kopa’s standing body, and with a quick crack swung out and shot at Kopa’s ribs. Kopa huffed and stepped away opening his eyes. 
“What was that for?” 
“Close your eyes boy.” Amri insisted. Kopa shook his head and again complied with his request. Amri shot out another swing catching Kopa’s thigh, again he grunted in pain. “Listen to where I’m walking, what I’m doing. Don’t wait for me to attack, see with your ears and listen for what I’m going to do.” He explained. Kopa searched for Amri with his ears, trying to imagine what he was doing. He could hear the footsteps trailing behind him and swung around to face them. Amri nodded and quietly raised his paw and swung, catching Kopa in the face. The sting from his blow hurt, but he tried to stay focused and listen to where he was. Footstep after footstep, the grass crunched under his feet. He waited for any irregularity in his pace. This time he heard something he didn’t notice before; Amri took a quick breath, as he raised his arm. Kopa raised a paw this time and blocked the blow from Amri. 
“Good! Keep at it.” Amri encouraged, continuing to walk around him. Kopa understood now, Amri was sharpening his other senses, mainly his hearing with this exercise. Kopa struggled a bit with it, catching a few more blows to the face and sides, however eventually he was able to block more then he took. “Good, you can open your eyes Kopa. I’m sure we’ll practice this one again soon. Now, all I want you to do now, is stand.” 
“But, I am standing.” Kopa replied. 
“On your hind legs.” Amri corrected. Kopa agreed and bounced up onto his hind legs. Holding it for a few seconds he flopped back down to meet Amri’s paw to his side. “Ah ah! Back up!” He ordered. Kopa quickly complied and got back up onto his hind legs. 
“Theres a point to this I hope!” Kopa asked as he staggered around trying to keep his balance. 
“Yes, you see in combat when an opponent forces you up like that the one with the superior balance is the one who comes down on top. That person must be you, and I want you to be as comfortable on two feet as you are on four.” Kopa laughed a bit as he struggled to keep balanced on two feet. 
“This is harder than it looks after a while.” Amri smiled and rose up onto his hind legs as well. Much to Kopa’s shock he didn’t have to move, his legs held him steady, unshaking and stable.
“Is it?” He asked with a chuckle. “I can hardly tell.” Kopa seeing Amri up on two feet looked so strange. His paws were tucked in, dangling almost effeminately on either side. He even started to walk, it was so strange Kopa kept falling down and hopping back up trying to cope with his giggling and balance. “You know, this impresses the girls hey?” Amri said happily. 
“Oh really?” 
“Well what do you think they’re getting a better view of?” Kopa burst out laughing falling to the ground once again. “Hey hey now, get on those two feet!” Amri corrected still laughing himself. Though it was fun, Kopa was really struggling compared to Amri’s finesse on this lesson. He let Kopa settle down and stretch out his back legs. 
“You’ll need to work on this a lot more. You’ll look like a champ doing it mind you, but trust me it does help.” He explained. 
“I believe you.” Kopa agreed. “Hey Amri?” 
“Yes?” Kopa was hesitant to ask, but he just felt compelled. 
“When do you think you’ll vote on me joining the pride?” He asked shyly. Amri gave it a little thought, though much of it seemed for show. 
“Well, you’ve got the essentials down now. We said a few weeks didn’t we? Let’s do some more of these types of practice as well as your usual training. Give it at least a week, or a day or two more if needed and we’ll see then.” 
“Alright, I’ll work hard then.”
“Don’t be too hasty Kopa. You’re learning just fine, take this in stride and enjoy it.” He encouraged. “Come on, let’s head home. Perhaps you can show the girls how well you walk now?” He joked nudging Kopa’s side. 
“Yeah, with my luck I’ll show them how to slam into a tree on two feet.” Amri joined him laughing as they started towards home. Hardly taking the first few steps they saw Saeska running up on the horizon. Amri concerned rushed ahead to meet her and halted before her. 
“What’s wrong sweetheart?” He asked. 
“Nothing’s wrong daddy, I just wondered if I could borrow Kopa for a while.” She asked politely. 
“Well, I don’t know. Kopa and I have been out here a good while, I’m sure he could do with some rest. And besides, aren’t you helping your mother hunt tonight?” Amri questioned. 
“Nope, mom, Keyah and Kinu went out. They have Ni watching out for them.” She explained as Kopa arrived now. 
“What’s up?” Kopa asked joining the conversation. 
“I was hoping I could talk to you.” Saeska informed him. 
“I guess, but I’m pretty tired.”
“It’s private, but it’ll be short I promise. Daddy? Can you head home to Asani please?” She asked. Amri grew concerned now. 
“Is that really necessary? Is it so private you can’t tell your own father?” He questioned. Saeska huffed at him and glared firmly. She didn’t seem upset as she was disappointed. 
“Daddy, it’s not something that involves you and it’s a personal matter that involves Keyah. Now if you insist on being a naughty snoop, stick around and eavesdrop.” She challenged casually. Amri didn’t feel like starting an argument with her at the moment, he was a little tired as well and ready to eat. 
“Very well, I’ll leave you to it. Kopa, bring her home safely.” Amri requested as he began heading home. Saeska watched him head home, without so much as taking a glance at Kopa. When she felt comfortable he was out of earshot she took a deep breath and turned to him. 
“So, Saeska. What did you need to tell me?” Kopa asked shyly. It was rare that Saeska wanted to talk to anyone. 
“Well, it’s about you, and it’s about Keyah. And it’s also about me. But shh!” She hushed rushing up to him she covered his mouth with her paw. “We need to find somewhere quiet.” She whispered into his ear. Giggling she darted off, Kopa followed closely behind. Now he was really dumbfounded, what on earth does she want with me? He wondered. Saeska kept to her usual blistering pace and flew well ahead of Kopa. She lead him to a tall grassy area of the savannah, scattered rocks standing about as tall as them littered the landscape along with a few trees. She swung behind a rock and didn’t come out, Kopa was hopeful she finally settled on a location. Arriving he found her crouched down with her legs winding up. Leaping she threw him to the ground and pinned him.
“Got ya!” She proclaimed. Kopa shyly laughed guiding her off of him. 
“Yeah, I guess so.” He agreed. Brushing herself off she sat up more formally before him. 
“So, I wanted to talk to you about something personal.” She started. 
“Go ahead, you’ve got my attention.”
“I want to know if you’d like to be my mate.” The question came out as if it were just like any other.
“What?!” He blurted out in disbelief. “Saeska, there’s no way. I want to be with Keyah.” 
“I know I know silly, I certainly don’t mean right away. But after you and Keyah have been together for a bit, I wanted to know if you’d like to be with me.” She clarified. 
“Saeska, I don’t think it’s gonna work that way. Keyah and I love each other, I’m pretty sure we’ll be mates for life.” Kopa tried to explain. 
“You sound awful sure of that. Has she said she wants to be your mate for life? Or just your mate?” She asked. Pacing around him she flicked her tail against his body as he pondered the question. 
“Well, ok yes she hasn’t asked me to be her mate for life but. I’m pretty sure it’s me that has to ask in the first place.” 
“And all I’m saying is you don’t have to be stuck with her forever.” She added, still pacing around him. Kopa brought himself down from the shock and felt compelled to be more direct on the matter. 
“Look, Saeska I’m flattered but if it’s not Keyah, I don’t want anyone else.” He answered firmly. 
“So you don’t have any interest in me at all?” Saeska said pausing her stroll.
“Not in that sense no.” Saeska’s head fell low facing away from Kopa. He could see her shoulders shudder as well as she sniffled. Kopa could feel his heart sink a bit, he didn’t want to mate her but, he also didn’t want to hurt her. 
“Hey, are you ok.” He asked softly. She didn’t answer, as Kopa came around to meet her face she tried to hide from him by covering herself. He did manage to catch a glimpse at her eye though, and noticed there were no tears. 
“Hey, I know what you’re doing!” He proclaimed. “You’ve tried this on Hakima a few times, you can stop.”
“Damn it!” She snapped. “I can never get the tears to really go anymore. Oh well, I should have known this would be your answer.” 
“Why the interest in me all of a sudden?” Kopa asked. 
“I don’t know, I’ve had a few rather nice fantasies about you kissing me ever since you saved me from the buffalo.” She explained. 
“Saeska, I love you. But it’s more like I love you as a little sister. I care about you and want to protect you.” He elaborated further. Saeska rolled her eyes and continued patrolling back and forth about Kopa. 
“I know that. But I’m not exactly little anymore either. So I’m stuck with Asani then.” She sighed unhappily. 
“What do you mean stuck?” He asked. Placing a paw on her back he stopped her pacing and faced her towards him. 
“Father will want me to mate Asani, I’m sure of it. I don’t like him as much as you or Ni. He can be so cruel, thoughtless and arrogant. I won’t argue he looks out well for me and mother. But a mate?” She wondered. The idea made her wretch. 
“Nothing’s set in stone. Maybe you’ll meet someone you like, or you might find something in Asani you haven’t seen before.” 
“I’ve thought of that.” She agreed. 
“Listen, this whole conversations making me feel a bit weird.” 
“I understand. But, I would like to ask just one favor if I could.” She pleaded. Kopa was almost afraid to ask, this was a side of Saeska he had never seen. She had always been this rambunctious cub that bolted around faster than they could see her. Now here she was acting more like a lioness, yet still he could tell in her tone and the way she playfully took the situation she was very immature.
“What is it?” He asked with a stutter. She jumped up and forced Kopa’s back to the rock. He was back on two feet again, but this time kept balanced by the rocks support behind him. 
“I just want one kiss. One like you give Keyah.” She requested softly. 
“No, Saeska I just can’t.” 
“Please, I know you love her and you know she loves you. I would just like to know what it feels like in case I never really find it.” She begged, leaning in close to him. “You don’t have to tell her, I’ll never hold it against you. You know I will never break a promise.” 
“Just one, and you’ll put this to rest?” He asked. 
“Yes.” Kopa hesitated before giving her an answer. 
“Alright, just one.” He submitted. Saeska gazed up and smiled, slowly she moved her muzzled to his. Kopa felt a shudder as his lips met hers. She pulled him close and he allowed himself to pull her in as well. He embraced her lips just as she asked, slowly she pulled away with a smile. Biting her lower lip she giggled. 
“What?” Kopa asked nervously. 
“I should have known, it’s not the same. You can’t kiss me like you do Keyah, because I’m not Keyah.”
“Does that mean, you’re going to-“
“No no no, silly Kopa. I keep my promises, it’s not your fault, it’s mine.” Kopa heaved a sigh of relief, letting his head slap against the rock. 
“If she ever finds out, I’ll tell her the truth. I asked you to kiss me like you do her, and you couldn’t do it.” She stated with a smile. Kopa chuckled and smiled back at her. 
“You’ll find someone, don’t worry.” He assured her. 
“I know, thanks Kopa.” She giggled. Giving another sigh Kopa glanced off towards the grasslands on the horizon. The sun was starting to set and was casting shadows all across the savannah. A few of them were moving oddly though, Kopa watched them for a moment trying to discern what they were. Saeska looked out as well. 
“Whatcha looking at?” She asked in her usual tone. Kopa shrugged and slumped down off the rock. Suddenly the shapes changed direction, and the visage was becoming clear. Four legs each shadow spanning across the grass as the sun descended. First one set, then two then four. Kopa felt his heart race, another set appeared. He watched for a moment more, five sets of paws, five big cats, lions without a doubt. His fear confirmed as they changed direction again, and seemed to head towards them. 
“Saeska… Saeska we have to move.” He urged nudging her.  
“Those are lions coming.” She whispered. 
“Seaska come on!” Kopa insisted. One of the lions in the distance paused, Saeska watched carefully. In a quick turn the other four moved beside him, and began moving rapidly. 
“Saeska run!” Kopa shouted. She gasped and started running towards home with Kopa just trailing behind her. “Keep going! Keep going we have to get back to the others now!” She really put the motor on, gunning ahead she ran hard and fast towards home. She could see her father and the others resting by the rocks up ahead. Her heart began to race now, she had seen her father and the others fight off three, but not five. She started whimpering, growing closer and closer to home. Kopa was a fair distance behind constantly looking back to see if they were catching on him. He could see them running after him, but a fair distance away. He wouldn’t take a chance to rest he pushed hard to get home fast. Saeska made it back first honing in on her father. He frowned as she arrived he could see she was upset. 
“Daddy-daddy-daddy-daddy-daddy-DADDY!” She screamed leaping into his arms. 
“What on earth is wrong baby?” He asked wrapping his arms around her. 
“They’re coming!” She screamed, hugging her father tight. Kopa finally came within earshot. 
“Amri! We got rivals coming! Five lions!” He screamed. 
“Oh shit!” Asani cried out surprised. 
“Hakima, get the girls covered!” Amri ordered. “Ni, Asani up, get up! Get to Kopa!” The two quickly complied. Rushing to his side they gave him a quick look over. 
“I’m fine!” He cried gasping for breath. “They’ll be here any second though, five of them.” 
“You’re going to have to really show us your A game here Kopa.” Ni warned. 
“I’m ready, just need air.” He explained. 
“If there’s five we’ll need to let two focus on one of us. Asani, think you’re up for it?” Amri asked. 
“No problem.” 
“Kopa, take the smallest one, fight him in the middle so we can jump in if you run into trouble. Ni and I will hold the flanking lions; they will not get behind us.” Amri advised. 
“Got it.” Ni agreed.
“This is going to be rough; it is not how I wanted you to encounter your first challenge Kopa.” 
“I’m not afraid.” Kopa replied sternly. As a large lion appeared nearby he gazed down on the four of them in anger. The others formed up behind him and slowly began to move in. 
“I got your back Asani if I bring mine down.” Kopa stated quietly. 
“We all have each other’s backs Scars, that’s why we’ll win.” Asani encouraged, as they readied to fight against the rogue pride.