Nathari’s eyes darted back and forth, watching the conversations all about him unfolding. Though he couldn’t place faces to names of all the new lions he had met, it was fascinating just to observe and see what this pride was like. He had grown up, so used to being pushed around, judged and even picked on by his litter mates or elders that he had never seen a pride quite like this. Hakima turned from the conversation with her daughter and drew her attention to him. Smiling she pat his paw and swung around to meet him face to face. 
“So little one, what is your story. What has brought you to cross our path?” She asked politely. Nathari giggled with delight at the attention. 
“Well, long story short my master Ezeamaka didn’t want me anymore.”He replied with a shy smile. 
“And the wound how did this come about?” Hakima asked.
“He did it to me, for failing to defeat your pride.” He answered, hiding his face in shame. 
“Oh dear.” Hakima said covering her mouth a moment. “What of the other survivor then, what became of him?” Nathari couldn’t answer, the memories of what happened were bad enough. To describe them, was even worse. Hakima was able to devise the answer and shook her head. “It is such a shame. You are so very young, you had no place fighting in a battle like that. What of your parents, your mother or father? And please tell me this, Ezeamaka is not one of them.”
“No, he’s not my father. To be honest I don’t know who my father really is. My mother mated with whomever she felt like. It’s probably why I’m the youngest of eight.” He explained. Hakima’s jaw slacked a moment.  
“My goodness, such a big family.” 
“My mom was nice, but she really pushed for me to be independent. She hunted for me until I was one but after that I had to do it on my own, or work with my older brother.” He chuckled. 
“Like your brother do you?” She smiled. 
“Yeah, he’s a good warrior. He taught me a lot. My sisters don’t talk to me much and my only other brother left to find his own pride when I was little.”
“So tell me boy, what do you plan to do once you have recovered? Will you go home to your family, your brother and friends?” Hakima asked. Nathari hadn’t given it much thought. For the last little while, he thought he was going to die from his injuries. But now, being taken such good care of by Kopa and Shenzi. He wasn’t sure what to think. 
“I really don’t know. If I go home, Ezea will probably try to kill me again. But then again, if I do go home and just stick with my older brother, it might be too hard for him to do it.” He thought aloud. 
“This is so odd, you seem to have such a fine family save for this Ezeamaka. Why is he so important, what weight does that bloated oaf carry?” 
“He’s the grandson of our prides leader.” Nathari quickly answered. 
“Hmmm. I see. Still, family or not such deceitful behavior would never be tolerated among us.” Hakima stated firmly. 
“What about that Asani guy.” He asked. “He seems like a real jerk.” 
“Asani’s tenacity and arrogant behavior is occasionally troubling I agree. But you would be hard pressed to find a more devoted and compassionate fighter. He will place the needs of us above all else.” She explained, as she did, she could feel the laughter growing within. “But when there is no immediate threat or no need to assist anyone, he is about as pleasant as an elephant’s backside.” Nathari covered his mouth, laughing at the comment as well. “Still, he is so precious to us. I would not trade him for another, and he loves my husband dearly for saving him years ago.” 
“Husband? What’s that?” He asked. 
“Amri and I have sworn our love for each other, forsaking all others. He cannot mate with any other females and I cannot take any other males. It is a rare pact among lions, but I do treasure him so.” She explained. 
“Oh! So that’s what you meant when you addressed us. I had no idea what was going on there to be honest.” Hearing him talk about this reminded her of a question she had thought of earlier. Though a little hesitant to ask, she didn’t feel it would offend him.
“Why did you come for us that day? Was there any particular reason, or just you saw us and came for us.”
“We were out looking for prides to overtake, to expand our own back home. I think Ezea just went for you because you were there.” He replied. Thinking about it for a moment, he started to question it himself. “But you know? Come to think of it, he passed up attacking this small pride in exchange for, “Information” on a juicy target. I don’t know what he meant by that but, I wasn’t about to question him.”
“Juicy target?” She asked, trailing off gazing to the ground. “Something he said, during their fight. I found quite strange. He said, I want a piece of you, just you to my husband.”
“Does Amri know him?” Nathari asked. Hakima shook her head as she met him eye to eye once again. 
“No, I don’t believe so. Though I have only been mated to him for three years or so now, he has never mentioned this Ezeamaka before.” She replied. “So, what do you wish to do then young one. Do you want to return to your pride when you have healed?” She asked again. 
“I don’t know. Would I be, out of line if I asked to stay with Kopa and Shenzi for a while?” 
“It would not be out of line at all. After all they are probably the first in some time now to treat you properly.” She agreed. 
“That’s for sure.” Nathari nodded. 
“My turn!” Saeska shouted, bounding into her mother to join the conversation. “Hello there Nathari!” She greeted with a big smile. Hakima laughed as Nathari stammered to reply. 
“You remembered my name?” He asked. 
“Of course! Ears this big don’t miss much.” She giggled. “So how are you?” 
“I’m ok, nice to meet you-“
“Saeska, I’m Saeska.” She greeted once more extending her paw. 
“I remembered, don’t worry.” He chuckled, giving her paw a quick kiss. “Pleasure to meet you, Saeska.” Saeska nearly blushed, he was so polite. Turning to her mother she giggled. 
“So proper!” She exclaimed. 
“My daughter, behave yourself. If you’d like to chit chat a while be my guest, but be gentle with the boy. He is still badly hurt.” Hakima advised. 
“Ok, love you mommy.” 
“Love you to, sweetheart.” She fare welled, nuzzling her briefly.
“So Mr. Nathari, what do you like to do?” She asked. 
“Oh you know, I like training. I’m going to be a great warrior some day you know?” He replied coolly. Saeska rolled her eyes, what a puffed up answer she thought. 
“Is that all? You must like SOMETHING more than just training?” She pleaded.
“Well, I used to like playing games with my friends but, that stuff-“
“You say just for cubs I’m going to bop you one.” She giggled covering his mouth. “What kind of games?” 
“Mfffmmfmfm fmmmffmm.” He tried to say. Saeska just giggled harder and harder the more he tried to talk. 
“You gonna let me go?” She could make that much out of what he said. Shaking her head she kept giggling keeping his mouth covered. Taking a deep breath he blew hard, spit and all spraying her paw as he exhaled. 
“Ahh!” She cried out, wiping her paw in the dirt. “You nut job!” She laughed alongside him. “So come on! Games, speak, now! What did you love to play?”
“Hahaha, well I suppose. I was good at hide and seek, tag. Play fighting of course, I used to love that. Oh!” He exclaimed. “I can swim!” Saeska’s eyes blew open as she leaned in closer. 
“You can swim?!” She asked. 
“Oh yeah! I love it! My mom kept asking me where I hide my fins.” He laughed along with Saeska. “I swear, I was the only lion in the whole pride who loved the water.” He happily retold. “So what about you?” 
“Running, hearing stories from my dad and mom.” She started. 
“How fast can you run?” Nathari asked eagerly. Saeska gave a devious chuckle and bounced to her feet. 
“There’s not a creature on four legs faster than my hot little feet!” Grinning he chuckled back at her.
“Well that’s cause you haven’t seen me move yet!” 
“Is that so Mr. Nathari? I wanna see what you can do!” She giggled, gesturing for him to get up. His face cringed once more, sighing he bowed his head down, hiding his face. “Oh right! I’m sorry. Duh, you’re hurt. You poor thing.” She consoled gently patting his head. Shaking off her pat he smiled as she laid down before him once more. 
“I’ll be ok, I think. I hope.” He said, unsure how effective his treatment was. Saeska got up again to examine his back. Giving an approving nod she turned to him. 
“Looks ok, It’s a little sore but you’re just fine.” She replied after evaluating it. 
“Really?” His eyes rose up. “It’s looking better already?!” 
“I don’t know, I didn’t see it before.” 
“Hey Shenzi!” Nathari called. Shenzi finished talking to Kinu and got up, walking over to him she gave his head a quick pat. 
“What’s up honey.” 
“Take a look, how is it looking.” He pleaded. Shenzi glanced at the cut at first then went wide eyed. Even she was impressed how quickly the infection was clearing up. 
“Well hot damn, that’s looking good!” She cried out. 
“Yeah?!” 
“Oh yeah, try getting up kido.” She insisted. Nathari looked to Saeska and slowly climbed up to his feet. She smiled as he made the effort to get up, struggling to cope with the stinging on his back. Much to his surprise, he made it. He was standing up, properly and with little pain. “Look at that, chalk one up for the Hyena’s medicine baby! Woo!” She cheered. “Come on, try moving them feet.” Cautiously he started walking. One foot in front of the other, the ache was coming more from his arms being rested for so long more so then his back. Striding around Saeska and then towards the water, he headed back to them laughing in disbelief. 
“I can’t believe it! It hardly hurts at all!” He cheered. 
“Woo hoo, you go Nathari boy!” Saeska congratulated. He swept Shenzi under his chin and held her. It shocked her at first, any quick grab from a lion was usually trouble before. But being who he was she took it in stride, even enjoying it. 
“Thank you so much Shenzi. I really appreciate what you and Kopa have done for me.” 
“Aw shucks kid, we were just doing our thing since your boy was nice enough to feed us.” She insisted. 
“Still, thank you.” He said releasing her. 
“He’s up and about.” Asani announced as the four of them came back. Kopa smiled and rushed over. 
“Look at you, how are you feeling?” Kopa asked eagerly. 
“It’s not too bad. Feels good to be on my feet again. Thank you Kopa.” He replied, giving his cheek a quick nuzzle. 
“Hey you’re welcome friend.” 
“I was kind of wondering.” Nathari started. “Would it be ok if I you know, stay with you guys for a while?” He didn’t need to think twice, Kopa welcomed him happily. 
“Of course, I’d love to have you with us.” He agreed.
“Yeeeeee!!! A new friend!” Saeska squealed with delight. “I can’t wait till your better, you can show me how to swim and when we race, you’ll be eating my dust!” 
“Ha, we’ll see about that.” He laughed. Keyah hearing the commotion rushed over to Kopa and swung under his chest, stroking him as she kissed his cheek. 
“So, how did it go my love?” She whispered. He took advantage of her aroused mood and kissed her neck, wrapping her body up with his. 
“We’re mates now. No question.” He happily informed her. Moaning she let him stroke her neck, planting soft kisses wherever he could. “What do you say we celebrate that little fact tonight?” He suggested. Swishing her tail she brushed his belly and giggled. 
“I agree. But let’s fetch another little something to eat. My strong handsome mate will need his strength tonight.” 
“No sleep for you tonight my love.” He whispered in her ear. 
“It’s overrated.” She laughed. 
“Someone’s getting laid tonight!” Asani called out. 
“Definitely not you.” Ni quipped. Everyone started laughing, even Asani found it funny. 
“Sis, Saeska, let’s go get our pride some dinner!” Keyah shouted out. 
“Oh you’re gonna need more than just the three of you.” Shenzi was quick to interject. 
“I agree.” Amri added. “Hakima my love, can you take our new friends the Hyena’s with you. Bring us back two or three good kills, we need to fill up heartily. We depart for the Pridelands the day after tomorrow. So rest up, well most of us rest up.” He instructed turning to Kopa with a laugh. “Eat plenty, drink plenty. We do not know how much we will find along the way.” 

The feast went well. With the Hyena’s aid, Hakima, Saeska, Keyah and Kinu were able to bring back two buffalo and an antelope the hyenas picked off on the way back. Banzai was quite proud of himself, having brought it down nearly on his own. Shenzi and Ed hadn’t arrived until he had it by the throat. A story he was content to tell over and over during dinner. They feasted upon the buffalo first, picking it clean before digging in to part of the antelope. The second buffalo was to wait until the next day, though the smell would have usually attracted attention from other thieving predators. The thick forest and abundant floral around them would conceal the scent for some time at least. Keyah and Kopa, stuffed completely full excused themselves to a more secluded location. Staying within earshot of their family, they wasted little time romancing each other. Falling into each other’s arms it didn’t take long for Keyah to leave herself in a prone position for Kopa to mount. She loved the feel of his fur against her body, his breath on her neck. The excitement of feeling him inside was always a welcome sensation. She never hesitated either to join in the sexual foreplay. Swishing her tail about him, exposing herself to him, kissing and bathing his genitals. She loved him so; boldly she showed it and welcomed the intrusions between her legs every time. Kinu gave the occasional glance off in the direction they traveled. Though their bodies were well concealed, she could hear her sister’s moans of pleasure as she mated. It was uncomfortable for her; she didn’t have pleasant feelings towards mating like her sister. But yet, she respected her decision to take Kopa. 
“Trying not to look huh?” Ni asked approaching her. He settled nearby and gave her shoulder a brief nudge. 
“It’s a little distracting.” She agreed. Taking a deep breath she settled her head between her paws and gazed distantly at the stream. Ni slid his body next to hers, his paw draped over hers and settled as well. 
“Maybe someday you’ll feel differently about it.” He suggested. Kinu rolled her eyes giving a brief shake. 
“Dream on.” She whispered. Kinu watched as everyone before her carried on their conversations, laughing smiling and happily greeting and telling stories of the days that just passed. Saeska was engaged in another conversation with Nathari while Shenzi and Banzai listened to Hakima explain the story of how their pride came about. Amri and Asani talked awhile about the argument with Keyah earlier but it seemed casual. Most likely because the last few days had taxed everyone’s emotions so.
“Kinu?” Ni whispered to her. 
“Hmm?” She replied, her eyes half open. 
“Do you think you will ever take a mate?” Ni asked shyly, taking a moment to brace himself for the answer he felt coming. She closed her eyes, surprisingly calm and shook her head between her paws. 
“No.” Ni sighed once more, kicking up a few leaves in the process. 
“That’s a shame.” He replied. “Someone as wonderful as you should embrace what life has to offer.” Giving a brief laugh she mocked the idea. 
“What’s so great about mating? It’s painful, it’s demeaning and pregnancy is little better. Stuffed full of the seed of some male, then having to care for the little cubs your whole life.”
“That’s a harsh look at it. What about Sorana, she went through it for you?” he explained, nuzzling her shoulder once more.
“Don’t bring my mother into this.” She replied hastily, raising her head from her paws. “Why is this important to you anyway, what business is it of yours?” Ni looked away for a moment trying to recompose his thoughts. Every second she started to realize what was going on. “Oh don’t tell me.” She moaned. 
“What?” He asked. 
“You want to mate with me.” She answered, glaring into his eyes as if they held the truth behind them. “Don’t you!” She started to push. 
“Kinu, just hear me out.” He pleaded. 
“Ugh!” She fumed. Storming to her feet she started away from him. Getting a few good paces before Ni caught up to her.
“I just want to talk to you.” He insisted, trying to get her attention. As she passed ahead she gave her answer. 
“Talk to my foot.” She said, flicking her hind leg out and catching his face. Though not a hard blow it was enough to turn his face and befuddle him a bit. 
“That was mildly rude.” He said with a quick laugh wiping his face. Returning his attention to Kinu he darted up and caught up to her stomping feet once again. This time he rushed ahead and cut her off. He recomposed his poise from before, but she huffed as he stood in the way. 
“I don’t want to mate with you.” He fired out eagerly. Flinging her head back she let loose a sarcastic laugh. 
“I’m supposed to buy that now?” 
“I don’t want to do anything to hurt you Kinu. Just please, hear me out.” He pleaded stroking her cheek. She seemed almost ready to snap at his paw before he interjected. “Hey, remember? I’m just trying to help you, don’t shut me out now.” He insisted, reminding her of the time at the stream so many weeks ago. Taking a deep breath she relaxed, even beginning to embrace the soft touch of his paw against her cheek. Taking a deep breath she opened her eyes and lowered his paw to the ground. 
“Ok, I’m listening, what do you want to say?” Nodding he gave his words some thought and replied. 
“I think the reason you don’t trust males is cause of the problems you had with that male when you were little.” 
“He tried to rape me!” She barked angrily. Ni was quick to hush her and calm her down once more. 
“I know, I know. I understand that.” Taking a deep breath she shuddered.  
“No, you don’t.” She argued her tone much softer this time. 
“Then tell me, I want to know.” He begged, stroking her face once again now. “I’m not here to judge you; I just want to know more about you.” 
“You don’t want to know about this Ni, just leave it alone.” 
“Please, I want to know. I can see how painful it is for you. I don’t want you to face this alone, and risk missing out on something so beautiful because of that monster.” Ni urged. Pausing his stroking he leaned in closer. His face only inches from hers. “Let me hear it.” She wanted to explain it, but she also didn’t want to relive what happened that day. The memories alone were painful enough. Shaking her head she sniffled, giving her nose a quick wipe. “It’s ok.” He insisted, “I’m not here to judge.” She took a deep breath, settling herself a little as she started to explain. 
“He took me aside one day, when mom was out hunting. Keyah was with Hakima at the time so he took advantage of the fact we were alone. We went off into the savannah, just out of sight, behind a rock. He sat up and his, you know. It was sticking out. He told me, I had to suck on it. I had to or he would do worse to Keyah. I didn’t have a choice. He pushed my head into it. I gagged because he was so big, and it hurt so much. I couldn’t stand the taste it was awful. He started to really go, trying to cram it down my throat. It hurt my mouth, and my tongue started bleeding.” She whimpered. “He kept pushing it in over and over. Then… he.” She cried. Ni threw his arms around her, holding her fast. Her tears flowed into his mane as she held him tight. “He told me if I said anything to my mother he would kill her and me.” She sobbed, her eyes shut tight as she cried harder into mane. Ni slid his paw up and down her neck. Trying to coax what little comfort he could. 
“It’s ok Kinu, he’s gone now. And if he ever shows up again, I’ll rip him in half myself.” He assured her.
“I swore, I would never let anyone hurt me like that again.” She stammered. “I would never take a mate.” 
“That’s exactly what he would want Kinu.” Ni argued. Wiping her nose again she sniffled and looked him in the eye. 
“What? What do you mean?” 
“He would want to think he owns you. He’s taken control of your life. You’re letting what he did to you decide your life by letting your only encounter with a male be as degrading as he made it.” He explained. Reaching around her head he pulled her back in close to his body. “What he did to you, was so very wrong. But mating isn’t degrading, demeaning or even that painful.” Giggling he corrected himself. “Well, I’m sure your sister must get sore eventually being with Kopa all the time.” Kinu laughed as well. Choking her tears back; she wiped the remaining moister on his chest. “Put the nightmare of that day aside. You are in control of your life, not him. Not your fear.” He consoled. Holding her close a few moments more he continued gently stroking along her back and neck. 
“Who would want me though?” She cried quietly. Ni laughed, pushing her back away from him. Sliding along her head with his paw, it ran over her ear and down her neck. Opening her eyes, she met his with a smile. 
“I want you.” He whispered. “So when you’re ready. I’ll be here.” 
“You mean it? You’ll wait on me? But what if I don’t, I mean. I don’t know if I can.” She stammered. He moved his paw over her mouth and hushed her, slowly moving it away he smiled. Closing his eyes, he started moving his face closer to hers. 
“Let’s start slow. But let’s start here.” She was still so afraid, but with one deep breath she let his lips press against hers. The shock was immediate; she didn’t know what to do. She just let her instincts guide her, closing her eyes she embraced it. The few smacks of their escaping resonated with her, it was so different then she imagined. In her mind there was terrible breath, awkward motions and just unpleasant thoughts. But not now, she felt only the warmth of his lips against hers. As they uncoupled, she lowered her head back into his chest, slotting beneath his head. 
“That’s a good start.” She moaned, letting a little chuckle escape with it. Ni laughed as well. 
“Yeah, it’s good.” 
“Again.” She suddenly announced. With a jolt she found his lips once more. Ni was happily surprised and took the chance to embrace it. Grabbing her paw he pulled her body closer. He guided her to the ground, so very careful not to break the hold he had on her. She moved into his body and wrapped her paws around him. With one paw low and the other high he kept a grip on her warm, soft fur. Each draw into their mouths became more passionate. They salivated with each touch of their lips. This new feeling was so strange to her, yet she enjoyed it so, never wanting it to end. With a gasp for air she released, placing her head to rest atop his mane she rubbed vigorously against him before settling with a sigh of pleasure. “Ni?” She asked softly. 
“Yes Kinu?” He replied with a kiss to her neck. 
“Promise me something.” 
“What would you like?” He whispered. 
“Promise that you’ll stay by me. No matter what happens, I want you to protect me.” Closing his eyes, he released a claw and tickled along her back. 
“I will protect you. I promise.”

As the sun broke through the trees, flicking the shadows of the leaves upon the ground the pride began to stir from their sleep. Kinu and Ni rode out the night in each other’s arms as well as Kopa and Keyah. Much of the pride huddled together along with the hyenas. As Amri stirred he took a quick bite to eat and woke the Hyena’s in the process. After feasting a while he sat with them attempting to strike up a conversation. He was interested to know the fastest route if one existed to the pridelands. Though they knew the path back for the most part, they did reaffirm they were hesitant to go. The last thing they wanted was Simba on their heels once again chasing them away. Amri understood but expressed concern that Nathari had grown attached to them. They understood this as well, but felt there place was not within the pridelands anymore. Saeska was next to wake and having spent the night next to her mother and Nathari. She eagerly examined the wound on his back. She desired greatly for him to recover so he could live up to his promise to show her to swim. Even if Saeska had made said promise herself. Poking his face gently she attempting to stir him awake. 
“Hey, you there Mr. Nathari?” She asked whispering in his ear. Groaning he licked his chops a few times before awakening somewhat to the sight of Saeska’s eye flooding his view.
“Blah… five more minutes mom.” He groaned, rolling over trying to fall back asleep. Saeska’s face contorted in confusion. 
“Mom?” She pondered. Pacing around a moment she decided to use less, conventional methods to wake him. With a devilish smile she planted her backside on his head, smothering his face. 
“Saeska.” Her father moaned. “Get off the boy.” Still giggling she refused to get off of him, though he still lay there half asleep on the ground.
“This calls for desperate measures.” She told herself. Her eyes squinted as her hind legs contracted. With a sigh she squeezed out a subtle but audible fart. Nathari threw her off and gagged. 
“Aww come on that was nasty!” He cried. She couldn’t stop laughing as he wiped at his head over and over. 
“Saeska!” Amri shouted once more. This time she stopped laughing and gave him more direct attention.”For heaven’s sake, act your age! Apologize to the boy.” Rolling her eyes she submitted to his demand. 
“I’m sorry Nathari.” She apologized leaning down. With a swift withdraw she waved her nose and giggled. “But I’m not kissing it better.” 
“Oh yeah?” He replied, pouncing up he buried his head in her chest. Grinding his forehead where she had let loose before. 
“Ew gross!” She shrieked bounding away from him.
“What it’s your fart! Don’t you want it back?” He laughed chasing after her. Darting around her father he kept on her tail waking up the rest of the pride in the process. As they found their way over to him again, he threw out his arm catching Saeska and halting Nathari in the process. Amri shook his head turning to the boy. 
“Feeling better I suppose?” Nathari riled his shoulders letting a minor flinch escape. 
“It’s not bad.” He agreed. “Kinda hungry though.” 
“Then both of you sit down and eat, and stop this foolishness.” He lectured. 
“Yes daddy.”
“Yes sir.” They agreed, turning towards the remaining antelope on the ground. 
“Dig into the buffalo if you need to, that thing has to be gone by tonight.” Amri added. Nathari and Saeska sat down, chewing away into their breakfast. Each taking turns glancing at each other with strange faces. All the while Nathari’s stomach kept growling. He felt at first it was just mere hunger but, as he ate it felt different, painful even. With a few short and sharp pains in his abdomen he knew immediately it wasn’t hunger anymore. 
“Oh no. I gotta…” He moaned getting up, backing away from the antelope. 
“Gotta what?” Saeska wondered. 
“You thought I was kidding when I said it was worse on the way out.” Shenzi stated, joining the conversation. Nathari bolted off into the forest trying to find a spot to seclude himself to go about his business. Kopa and Keyah now wide awake began digging in to their meal as well. They were joined by the others not long after and made quick work of most of the buffalo. Saeska realizing that Nathari hardly ate was quick to rip the one remaining leg off the antelope and stash it. Having finished eating and enjoying a nice relaxing morning talking with the pride, the hyena’s decided it was time for them to go. 
“Well guys and gals, it’s been a pleasure.” Shenzi announced as she stretched out. Banzai and Ed joined in beside her turning to face the others. 
“Wait, where are you going?” Nathari asked rushing over to them. 
“We gotta bounce kid.” Banzai answered. Nathari hung his head; he had grown to like them. 
“But, I was hoping you would come with us.” He pleaded. 
“Nah.” Shenzi dismissed. “We can’t be heading back to the pridelands. We aint welcome there, at least for now.” 
“I can assure you guys, when I talk to my father I’ll make sure you are welcome back.” Kopa insisted. 
“Appreciate it kido. Maybe we will take ya up on that some day.” She replied. With a smile she returned her attention to Nathari, who was wiping away at his face. “Ooo that reminds me! I got ya a little something something Nathi, last night when you were all pushing up z’s.” Chuckling she darted over into a nearby bush. With a big smile and flowers between her teeth she dropped the pile before him. Nathari cringed seeing them spill out on the ground. 
“Oh no, you can’t be serious.” 
“Oh ho yes, you gotta take at least one more.” She insisted, flicking one over to him. Kopa bowed down giving them a quick sniff. 
“Not so bad really.”
“Ooo! Lemme see!” Saeska cried out, darting in and smelling the flower. With a deep breath she nearly inhaled the pile on the ground. “Ahhhhh they smell so lovely.”
“I had to kiss him to get him to take one last time.” Keyah informed them. Saeska scooped one up in her paw. 
“Did it work?” She asked eagerly. Keyah nodded, Saeska turned to Nathari with a wicked grin once again. Sucking in his lips he slowly withdrew. 
“Oh no you don’t!” She barked lunging at him. She held the flower an inch from his mouth while Kopa blocked his escape. 
“One more isn’t gonna kill ya kido.” Kopa encouraged. 
“The pansy can’t eat a pansy.” Asani laughed from behind. Nathari sharply turned around and glared. 
“If you eat it, I’ll give you a kiss.” Saeska offered. Swinging back around he smiled. 
“How bout you kiss me and I’ll eat it.” He counter offered. 
“How bout her father is in ear shot.” Amri quickly interjected with a smile. Nathari cowered a moment before Saeska picked him back up. 
“I wouldn’t kiss you with your stinky meat breath right now. Eat it, and I’ll kiss you. Done deal?!” She reaffirmed. Hesitantly he leaned in and took the flower in one bite. Groaning once more at the bitter taste flooding his mouth he eagerly swallowed it. Coughing up a few of the petals that stuck in his mouth afterward. 
“Ugh! That is just so gross!” He whined. Saeska darted in to his face giving him a quick peck on the cheek. 
“See, just as promised.” She giggled. His eyes shot back and forth in confusion.
“Wait, you were supposed to!”
“I didn’t say on the lips now did I?” She questioned him. His jaw slacked as he collapsed to the ground once more. 
“I’ve been had.” He moaned. 
“Well that was entertaining.” Shenzi complimented. “But it’s time.” Kopa approached and swung an arm around each of them. 
“Thanks you guys. I really do hope to see you soon.” He said softly. 
“I’m sure you will.” Banzai nodded. Nathari bolted up and hugged Shenzi tight. 
“I’m gonna miss you. You guys are the coolest hyena’s I’ve ever met.” Releasing him gave his head a good scratch. 
“We’ll see you around fuzzy boy.” She assured him. Banzai gave him a quick pat in the arm and smiled. 
“See ya kid.” 
“One more game?” Nathari offered. 
“Sure, next time we see each other.” He agreed. Smiling he bowed his head and waved.
“Take care you guys; we’ll see you again soon!” Kopa called out. 
“Bye you guys.” Nathari called as they walked on. “And thank you so much.” Saeska scooped up another flower and rushed to his side. Placing it behind his ear she giggled and nuzzled his side. 
“Don’t worry, there with you. Right in there!” She announced prodding his chest. 
“Yeah.” Kopa agreed. Draping an arm over his back he held him close for a bit. “Come on, let’s get you up and about.” He insisted. “Amri? Can you and I train again? Like we were supposed to before?” Smiling Amri rose up and laughed. 
“Excellent, you want to resume?”
“Yeah, we have some practice to make up for.” Kopa replied. Amri gave his approval and turned his attention to the others.  
“Ni, why don’t you stay here and train with Asani for a bit. I’ll take Kopa and the boy here.” Amri instructed.
“Sounds like a plan.” Ni agreed, as they journeyed back out through the forest.

The day passed on peacefully and with the night came another booming thunderstorm. Though the pride wasn’t particularly disturbed by the rumblings, the next morning they woke to find themselves nearly submerged in water. The stream had begun to flood with the pouring rain and was gushing against their campsite. Amri wasted little time getting everyone up and on the move.
“Saeska, care to lead us to the waterfall? It should take us towards the entrance of the canyon” 
“Sure daddy!” She nodded bolting ahead of the pride. “Follow me guys and gals and don’t fall behind!” 
“My girl, do not run.” Hakima advised. “The ground is slick and unstable. An injury may spell the end of our journey.”
“Yes mommy.” She complied. Nathari let a snicker escape as he covered his mouth. 
“Hah, mommy.” He whispered. Saeska caught ear of it though and gave a quick flick of her hind leg, flinging up cakes of mud. A good few pieces splashed his face and back, embarrassed he swiftly wiped it off. Cautiously they worked their way over the downed trees and sinking mud within the forest. Though more like a jungle the farther they ventured in, the difficulties began to build. The sinking earth made each drudge of their paws a struggle while burrs, frail vines and roots stuck between their fingers. The elements were unfavorable to. The rain was still pouring hard and with the entrance of any clearing; they were thoroughly dumped on. The afternoon passed quietly, and as the evening came and the rain kept pouring, Asani was getting frustrated. Shaking out his mane as the hair caught in his eyes. 
“Hate the jungle.” He complained. 
“Don’t you mean forest?” Kinu asked. 
“Forest, jungle, it’s all the same. Wet, annoying and bug filled.” Ni hobbled over and bumped his side. 
“Hey, not many bugs out on us right now. The rains keeping them hidden, so relax.” He reminded him. Asani brushed it off, that or he was shaking the hair from his eyes again. 
“Uh oh.” Saeska called out ahead. Amri rushed over to her side. 
“What is- oh my.” He interrupted himself. “I think we may have strayed a little far off track here.” Amri gazed down along with is daughter. It was a shear drop, about a hundred feet down. 
“The falls are right there though daddy.”
“Yes I know, but we’ll have to get around this cliff and then cut through the forest down below.” Amri advised. Saeska agreed and started along, leading the pride down along the cliffs edge. Walking down, the thunder began to boom once more well off in the distance. Ni looked off into the horizon and could see darker clouds behind the grey sky already hovering overhead. Turning his gaze towards the forest below along with its river and waterfall he grew concerned. 
“Amri, guys hold up a sec.” He called, dashing ahead of them. 
“Where are you going?” Kinu shouted. 
“Just checking something out, I’ll be right back, don’t move!” He insisted darting off ahead. Ni kept his pace brisk though the ground didn’t allow much speed. His footing slipping now and then as he found his way down the cliff and into the more dense jungle below. Finally on even ground with the river, he found right away what he feared strolling along. The ground was saturated, heavily. The water from the river combined with the rain was turning it into a swamp of sorts. With another echo of thunder overhead he knew the most immediate danger, the lightning. A strike on the ground when it’s dry is nothing but saturated like this, the shock can travel far, and kill instantly. Rushing back along the cliffs edge he eventually found his way back to the others. Huffing and puffing from the journey he settled himself before explaining. 
“We’ve been waiting like an hour Ni, what gives?” Asani wondered. 
“The ground down there, it’s flooded. You can still walk but, I wouldn’t rest there with a storm coming. Amri, you know what I’m talking about?” 
“Ah yes.” He agreed. “Wise decision Ni.” 
“Huh?” Nathari asked, joining their conversation. Hakima giggled and took his attention with a tap on the shoulder. 
“Lightning is a strange type of fire, It can travel through water. I have heard of it killing animals like fish, snakes, bugs and other creatures when it hits.” She explained. 
“Exactly, the water conducts it.” Amri continued. “Lightning has been known to kill animals as big as hippos when it strikes bodies of water. Its energy surges through the body, stopping the heart.”
“So, if we travel down below or sleep down there. It’s like asking to get hit by it.” Kopa concluded. 
“Precisely.” Amri confirmed.
“We might as well clear up some space then and camp the night here.” Asani suggested, nodding behind him. Amri, Ni and Kopa joined him and began clumping the brush on the ground. Piling branches and leaves they attempted to mash up a suitable bed to keep them off the cold, muddy ground. Ni and Amri managed to stretch up, stripping more branches off the trees that dotted the area while Asani pushed down the smaller ones. Kopa fashioned them into a ring with Keyah and Hakima’s help. The circular nest was small for them but huddled together, it would keep them warm. The storm drew closer and closer as they worked on their campsite. The thunder continuously rolled, though not always loud. 
“How’s it looking on your end Hakima?” Kopa asked, finishing his end up. 
“It is done, but we should moat around it to keep any bugs that stir in the night away.” She advised, starting to dig the small trench on her side. 
“It hardly works; you still get them on you in the night.” Asani said, slumping into the nest. 
“It works enough boy, and that is all we can do.” She replied. “Now get digging.” Amri, Asani, Ni, Kopa and even Nathari joined in digging the trench around there new campsite. The idea was that as it flooded from the rain water it would drown any bugs that tried to pass it. Though only about a foot across, Kopa could see Asani’s point. Many bugs could wade in the water and crawl up into the nest anyway. Still, it offered some protection, and as they finished they found there spots within to stay comfortable through the night. 
“I’ll join ya soon guys.” Ni said, turning towards the cliff. “I’m still kinda wired from the run, think I’ll watch the storm a while.” 
“That’s fine, stay warm.” Amri agreed, settling in with the others. Kinu bounded up from the nest and laid alongside Ni near the cliff. She chuckled, placing a paw on his and tucked herself as close as she could to him. 
“Fancy meeting you here.” He joked. 
“He did say for you to keep warm.” She replied, brushing her head on his shoulder. Ni caught her head with his own and nuzzled her cheek. 
“So he did.” He agreed, moaning with pleasure as she stroked his chin and cheek.
“You don’t mind the company do you?” She asked. 
“Not at all.” He chuckled, kissing her cheek. Kinu gazed off into the distance at the jungle that layered the ground far below. The lightning lit the few spaces between the trees, revealing the water that had begun to pool. 
“How did you know about the lightning thing earlier?” She wondered. 
“Amri taught me a bit about it a long time ago. Seems Hakima knew as well. I try to keep the little things like that in mind whenever we travel. I used to wander a lot before I met him. We did quite a bit of it to once we found Asani. Heck I’ve even been to the pridelands, but it was so long ago. There’s no way I remembered how to get there.” 
“You’ve been to the Pridelands?” She asked in amazement. “Well come on, spill it.” 
“There’s not much to it.” Ni laughed as he explained. “They have this central area known as pride rock. Pretty cozy place, I met this young cub named Nala. She got herself into a bit of a spot and I helped her out. She convinced the other lioness’s to stop chasing me out.” Ni paused a moment and reflected on the time there. “It was so long ago.”
“How old were you at the time?” Kinu wondered. 
“Oh, just two. Maybe even a month or two shy. She thought I was an adolescent, short mane and all that.” He chuckled. 
“I like your mane.” She complimented, stroking her paw through his fur. “It’s nice and soft, shows off your chest a little better. What do I know though; males are mostly a mystery to me.” Ni was quick to nuzzle her cheek and lick. 
“If there’s ever anything you want to know. You know who to ask.” He assured her, caressing her lovingly under his chin. 
“I’m curious about something.” She whispered, halting her affections for a moment. “I hope it’s not too intrusive.” 
“Go ahead.” He assured her, resuming his kissing of her cheek. 
“Why do males have barbs on their penis?” She wondered. Ni laughed, caught off guard by the question. “What?” She demanded with a smile. 
“Nothing, just a bit of an odd question.” 
“Well, then tell me. What are they there for.” She insisted. 
“Well, the theory is when they stroke inside a female it helps her become pregnant. Exactly how, I don’t know.” He answered. “But, if were gonna be going over questions like this, we may want to space ourselves a little from the pride. Got two young ones in there. I’d rather they not overhear us by accident.” 
“Sure, let’s move up a bit.” She agreed rising up aside him. They walked along the cliffs edge for a little bit, passed a few trees and rocks and settled once more overlooking the jungle below. Another bright flash filled their view and a short while later the booming thunder made the “Whoa’s” from the pride audible. “Alright, here we are.” She announced, excited to learn more. “So tell me. Have you ever had a mate before?” Ni took a deep breath before answering. 
“One yes. Though we weren’t close really.” He submitted. 
“What do you mean?” Kinu asked, resting a paw on his once more. 
“I met her when I was young, not a week away from home. I ran into this lioness that broke away from her family. She stayed with me a while, gave me a few good tips on hunting on my own and well.” He paused. “One night, we got close and it sort of happened but. She didn’t stay, she left immediately afterwards.” Kinu realized she might be stepping into something sensitive. 
“Was it, something you did wrong?” She asked shyly. Shaking his head, he sighed embarrassed. 
“No, it wasn’t something I could help really.”
“What was it?” She asked, stroking his paw. Ni grumbled a little, pondering if he should tell her or not. “Come on, I told you my story. You can tell me, I won’t judge you.” 
“Eh, you might.” He argued. With a swing of her head she brushed his cheek and slipped her tongue across his lip. 
“Tell me.” She whispered. Closing his eyes he sighed. 
“I. I don’t have any, you know, barbs.” He confessed. Her eyes widened as she pulled away.
“Don’t have them?” She exclaimed. 
“Shh!” He hushed. Kinu covered her mouth and whispered once more. 
“Don’t have them?” She asked again. 
“It’s a birth defect. The ones on my tongue are really fine compared to normal lions. But for some reason, the ones down there well, they never came in. It’s the reason why she left me. I was, deformed.” He explained. Ni hung his head, reliving the pain of that day. Kinu looked his body over up and down. This new development about him made her curious. She was not a fan of penile barbs herself since they were what caused her so much pain during her abuse. She could feel the need to ask rising, the question hanging in her throat. 
“Can I.” She started, coming to terms with what she was asking. “Can I see it?” She managed to blurt out. Ni felt a tingle run up his spine. He wanted to show her, and yet he wasn’t sure what she would think when she saw them. Feeling as giddy as a cub, he hesitated before replying. 
“Well I can’t just pop it out, at least not well.” He explained. He raised his hind leg, exposing himself to her. Though just his sheath he felt naked before her. “I’m kind of nervous. I might need a while.” 
“It’s ok.” She consoled. “I’m a little nervous as well. The last time I saw one after all.” She stated. “Well, you know.” 
“I know.” He agreed.
“Here. Maybe this will help.” She suggested. Leaning into his body she was careful not to knock him over. Flicking her tongue just behind his ear she started to slowly bath all around it. Parting his mane, her tongue lapped at his soaking coat, warming the cold chill from the rain that had sunk in. Though Ni found it relaxing, even ticklish feeling her breath and tongue around his ear, it wasn’t very arousing. Feeling satisfied with her work she gazed down at his member. To her dismay, only a small pink tip revealed, nothing of what she wanted to really see. “Darn.” She whispered. 
“It felt wonderful Kinu, but it’s going to need a little more coaxing then that.” He explained. Kinu nodded, growing more distraught. Her nerves were besting her. She was so scared of what she was doing, where it could lead. At the same time, the urge, the desire just to catch a glimpse was overwhelming. Ni slowly lowered his leg and wrapped a paw around her. “It’s too much Kinu, I can tell. It’s ok.” He consented, pulling her in close to relieve her. She embraced his warm body, feeling her heart race. The urge was growing within her ever stronger. Like a yearning to see, feel a sensitive part of him. Stammering she asked. 
“Raise your leg again.” Ni let her back up slightly looking in her eyes with concern. 
“I don’t want you to feel pressured.” He insisted. 
“No, It’s ok.” She argued softly. “I’m just nervous but, I trust you. If I keep reminding myself it’s you, I’ll be ok.” Ni gave his approval and raised his hind leg once more. His sheath dangling on its side completely un-erect. Ever so slowly, she began reaching down with her paw. Her breathing growing more rapid as she grew closer. At last, she could feel the fur, graze her foot pads. Gently she landed atop his sheath, her fingers between his shaft and balls. It felt so soft, so supple. Smiling she couldn’t believe she was touching him. Gently she stroked him. Massaging his balls then stroking along to his tip. Ni shuddered from the pleasure, the breath passing her ear. Closing her eyes, she grew more vigorous, the fear had all but melted away. The lump started to form, from his base, growing to his tip. The pink flesh broke the seal, and began to grow out from his pleasured sheath. He moved his hips ever so slightly in time with her motions; a stroke now and then drew another shudder from him. 
“It’s hard now.” He confessed. Opening her eyes, she looked to his face. His eyes were closed, entranced from her stroking of his stiffened penis. Removing her paw, she gulped and slowly gazed down. There it was, moving up and down with his breathing, twitching with his pulse. A bright pink, barbless and surprisingly long penis. Reaching in once more, she took hold of his sheath. Pulling back the skin she exposed as much length as she could. There was nothing the further down she went. Just more stiff pink flesh, smooth and glistening. 
“Wow.” She whispered, letting the skin retract. “That’s amazing.” The longer she gazed at it, the more aware she became of her own body. She was growing hard inside as well. Usually the experience was uncomfortable for her, but this time was different. She was aroused by someone she was fond of, someone whom she trusted, maybe even loved. Withdrawing she allowed Ni to lower his leg, his eyes at last opened but he still breathed heavily. 
“Strange, isn’t it?” He asked, nervous about how she felt. His most vulnerable secret was in her hands now. 
“Ni, it was beautiful.” She cooed.
“Beautiful huh?” He asked, bewildered. “That’s definitely not what I was told last time.”
“Thank you, for trusting me so much. I know that couldn’t have been easy for you either.” She said, leaning back into his chest. Purring for a moment Ni stroked her head with his cheek. 
“You made it easy, you’re an amazing lioness Kinu.” He complimented. She continued pressing against his body and stroking his chin. The feeling between her legs began to yearn once more. It was making her shudder; she wanted to feel him as close as possible to it. Confused she couldn’t decide if she wanted to mate, or just to feel him there. It baffled her, so unlike how she felt about males before. But he was different, so gentle, so calm and soothing to the touch. Testing her will she kissed his lip, gently tugging at it. 
“Lay on top of me.” She pleaded softly. Ni felt his heart start to race. Watching as she laid down on her back before him. Cautiously he hovered his body over her. Guiding his waist down as her legs wrapped around him. His breathing quickened as his still hard penis touched the side of her leg, sliding down just atop her slit. 
“Kinu, are you sure you’re ready?” He asked. She shook her head, pulling him closer to her face. 
“Let’s just, massage each other this time.” She suggested, pressing her hips against him. Ni shuddered from the pressure once more against his genitals, feeling her slit kiss against his length. 
“I’ll try.” He agreed, but knew in his heart he was in trouble. As he slid his member along her length, slowly pulling back he had to fight the instinctive urge to slip inside. He craved her, to be inside the warmth of her body. To empty himself within, though he knew she wasn’t ready. It was nearly maddening. But with each stroke along her slit, parting it, touching the moist flesh just beneath, he stayed focused. Kinu was enjoying it. She was so astonished at her own satisfaction, thinking no one would have ever gotten this close to her before. Now the slick massage of his hard member was bathed by her pussy. Soaking in the rain and dampness she was giving. Ni saw her smile, so happy, so pleased. She closed her eyes, embracing each stroke. In his carelessness, he caught her, flicking against the flesh at her peak inside. He stopped a moment, making sure he didn’t penetrate. Kinu let a whimper escape, but no signs of pain. Ni resumed his pace, slipping up and down along her. He held it a while, but his body fought back. A twitch caught his penis within again, this time putting pressure on her hymen before whipping out. Kinu gasped as Ni withdrew. 
“Sorry! Sorry.” He pleaded. “Let me look ok?” He darted down before she could answer and carefully opened her vagina. Pressing down slightly, he could see it was still there. Red, and sore, but still very much intact. “Phew, It’s fine. You’re ok.” He informed her. Kinu flung her head back and sighed in relief. 
“Ha, good. Ok, come on. Just be careful this time.” She instructed. 
“No Kinu.” Ni replied shaking his head. “I can’t. Believe me I want to, but I can’t. I know you don’t mean to. But it’s teasing me. My body’s instincts will over take me. I was as careful as I could be, but I want you so badly. I won’t be able to control it if I’m teased like that again.” He explained, his head sunk to his chest. Kinu didn’t know she was causing him to yearn for her so badly. It made her feel awful, like she was using him. 
“Ni, come back on top of me. Just one more time.” She insisted. Ni raised his head and looked away. He hesitated for a moment. Slowly he crept up on her, his paws over her shoulders and once again her hind legs strewn on either side of him. He shuddered again, his penis was still hard, twitching against her soft fur. This was it, the position she feared the most in her life, until now. “Look at me.” She pleaded. Ni’s eye’s met hers in pain. He struggled so hard to control himself. In her heart, she felt no fear anymore, no pain. His face, his touch, so gentle and so loving. This was what he had spoken of to her before. Something so beautiful. The realization freed her, she knew now what was in her heart. Seeing him in pain, she wanted to ease it, she felt it just by the look in his eyes. She was in love, deeply in love, with a tear creeping down her eye, hidden by the rain she whispered to him. 
“I love you.” Ni’s eye’s flung wide. His body stopped twitching from the shock of her words. Leaning closer to her lips, he gazed into her eyes, unblinking, still reeling from the shock. 
“Kinu?” He whispered. 
“Yes?” She breathed. 
“I love you to.” They each took a breath, latching to each other’s muzzle. She moaned with each slap of his lips on hers. Love! She thought. Love at long last! The words echoed through her head, words she never knew she had so desired to hear. Ni’s hardened member was alive now, buried between her soft virgin lips, pressing on her flower. She rocked against him, trying to push him inside. The twitching began to press harder and harder. His tip pointed down, his body on instinct pressed hard, he breached her hymen and sunk nearly half way in. Kinu broke from his lips and gasped. She felt him slowly sink inside, her vagina twitched with him trying desperately to grasp his member. 
“Oh, Kinu.” He moaned. His penis sinking in further and further. She could feel every inch, every twitch. She groaned as he touched the back of her vault, every last bit of his hard cock sunk in. Ni let his balls rest atop of her, letting her get used to the feeling. She began to shudder, her nerves acting up once more. She opened her eyes, and saw his face, his eyes squinting as her warmth encompassed him. The sudden rush of fear subsided as he opened his eyes. Giving a smile she pat his cheek, another tear escaping. 
“It’s you. It’s you inside me.” She assured herself. Kissing her paw he leaned down and stole another from her lips. 
“I love you.” He whispered. 
“I love you to.” She replied happily. Ni started rocking once more, she felt him slightly withdraw inside and push back in. Each stroke made her gasp, he was so smooth and yet so hard. She flung her head back and closed her eyes. Ni gradually increased the depth of his strokes, pulling half way out and pressing hard back in. Each push he felt his tip part her tight walls, the only hint of her end was the bend upward he took as he sunk in, stroking her cervix as he pressed. She couldn’t describe the pleasure, with no barbs, no rake he was free to excite every sensitive nerve inside. The cusp at her entrance burned with each stroke, and every lick of his penis against her womb only fanned the flame growing deep within her body. Ni quickened his pace, her breath bouncing now, unable to keep up with the strokes like before. 
“Oh!” She groaned, as she gripped hard inside, bracing herself against the pleasure brewing within her. Ni began panting, his tongue dangling saliva that dribbled down to her chin. She could no longer hold it back, the buildup grew within rapidly. Panting she loosed several moans of pleasure as her body contracted within. Her eyes flung open, though she couldn’t see a thing. Just the feeling of fierce contractions, stealing her breath as she pulsed along his member. It was overwhelming, her body had never experienced such pleasures, she was reeling from the shock. Ni kept stroking eagerly within, provoking it further. Her claws protruding, she felt a warm rush along her back, filling her belly and shaking through her legs as she came down.
“Ugh, It’s so… So much.” She cried out. Dizzy from the sensation, she could hardly explain. Ni’s panting grew heavy, the drool continued to run. Bounding up she cleaned his lip, her mouth hanging open as she laid back down. Ni slammed his eyes, gasping now as he thrust. 
“Oh Kinu, I’m.” He tried to cry out. Submitting to his panting he kept thrusting deep inside. His legs grew weak as his balls contracted, still he managed the strength to stroke inside. It was too much for him, he flung his head up, the first hard ejaculation fired deep within. The seed, expelling over and over as he crammed himself into her depths as far as he could. She felt it flooding inside, as though she had spread her legs to a river. He gushed again over and over within, spraying her walls, flooding her vault with his hot sperm. He couldn’t stop, each ejaculation began to spurt seed to the breaking point. The seal he had held fast over her rump ruptured. Seed was drizzling down between his balls, soaking her tail hole before trickling over the tail onto the ground. With a groan of pleasure he withdrew. His pink member trying to retreat to the shaft, spilled a few more jets upon her slits fur and anus below. His strength gave out, collapsing onto her body, she rolled him over, keeping her straddle. Ni was panting heavily, his eyes still closed tight. Smiling she stroked his head, kissing his nose and chin. She lapped at his mouth, hoping to get a taste of his sweet saliva once more. Ni pulled her in, kissing her over and over. His eyes finally opened. 
“Are you alright?” He asked between pants. She smiled, still stroking his head. 
“I am.” She replied. “For the first time in my life. I’m truly happy.” She added darting her head into his mane. She took in his scent, the warmth of his paws around him, the seed inside her. She let another few tears escape. “As long as I’m with you, I’m whole.” She moaned.
“So long as I’m with you, my love. I’m complete.” He answered. Holding her tight, through the storm and rain, they felt none of its bitter cold or deafening thunder. Kinu only heard the soft beat of her beloved mate’s heart, as Ni found everlasting warmth in the tight embrace of her arms. 

The dawn came in. The warm sun had dried off the prides soaking bodies for the most part. Kopa and Kinu carefully drew themselves out of the mass bed and stretched out. Keyah looked around, with a yawn she asked. 
“Where’s Kinu and Ni?” Kopa gave a brief look around and shrugged. 
“Don’t know. Maybe they’re up?” He suggested. 
“Let’s go see.” She decided, leading Kopa to the cliffs edge. It took little time for Keyah to find them just a bit further up along the way. She lead him over to their sleeping bodies and halted abruptly. Gasping she pointed down towards their waist. 
“Look how close!” She exclaimed by accident. Silencing herself she eagerly turned around to Kopa. “Look!” She pleaded again much more quietly. In plain sight he could see Ni’s genitals pressed up against Kinu’s. Though un-erect, he was quick to draw the same conclusion. 
“Well how about that.” He laughed.
“What’s up?” Asani asked approaching from behind. The smile on Keyah’s face disappeared as he arrived. Asani looked at the bodies on the ground, as a massive smile broke across his face. “Oh ho did he?” He whispered to Kopa. 
“We think so.” He agreed. Asani did his best to conceal his laughter. 
“Damn bro, good on ya.” He complimented Ni in his sleep. “Hey Kopa, shh.” He insisted. 
“Don’t you dare!” Keyah interjected. Asani scowled at her and replied. 
“I’m not gonna hurt her, don’t get your titties in a twist.” Sneaking in he laid down behind Kinu, putting him face to face with Ni as he slept. Reaching up he gave Ni’s nose a soft bat. He flinched, but remained asleep. Asani started whispering to him, making kissy noises and giggling. Ni started smiling in his sleep, Asani could hardly contain himself. Kopa covered his mouth, trying to conceal his laughter as well. Ni’s eyes started to open, blinking he couldn’t make out the muzzle in front of him. 
“Morning honey!” Asani called aloud. Ni’s eyes flung open, but thankfully he avoided tossing Kinu off of him. Ni gave a smirk and swatted Asani’s nose. 
“Morning to you to sweetie.” He mocked right back. He laughed, getting up and looking to Kopa for approval. Though Keyah shook her head at both of them, Kopa couldn’t help but laugh.
“Ahh you see, your boyfriend enjoys a good prank, what’s your story?” He asked Keyah. Rolling her eyes with a smile, she continued shaking her head. Kinu and Ni clamored to get up, trying to unlock their legs from each other. They had grown stiff in the night and each movement sounded a few cracks as they rose. “So, had a good night bro?” Asani asked. Ni hesitated to respond, Kinu as well did her best to ignore the question. 
“Maybe.” He replied. 
“Psh, maybe.” Asani mocked. 
“Mind your own business.” Kinu scolded, turning away from him. 
“Hey hey hey, none of that now!” He protested coming between the two of them. Resting a paw on each of them he laughed as he explained. “In all seriousness, I’m proud of both of you. Ni’s my brother, and you are a strong lioness and loving sister. I support you two being together whole heartedly. You know, I don’t say this much…. An fuck if I’m gonna start now!” He laughed releasing them. Ni joined him giving him a quick pat on the shoulder. 
“So, anyone else awake yet?” Ni asked looking back towards the nest. 
“Nah, we better get em up.” Asani replied, turning back towards the nest. As they wondered back, Kopa and Keyah were huddled close as usual but trailing behind was Kinu and Ni just as close. She was constantly giving him affections while he returned the favor regularly. Asani woke the others and gave them time to streatch out. 
“Good sleep.” Nathari announced, with a yawn to back it up. 
“So, think you’re up to running yet?” Saeska asked eagerly. Nathari gave a smirk and riled his shoulders. The cut had closed, the ache had predominantly faded and he began feeling more like his old self. 
“Anytime honey.” He challenged. 
“No, I don’t think so.” Amri interjected. “You two go bounding off we’re gonna lose you and waste precious time. If you’re so adamant about a race how about your mother and I call one when we arrive in the pridelands, hmm?” He suggested with a smile.
“Alrighty, you’re gonna a hawks eyes to see me when we race Mr. Nathari.” She joked. 
“You’re absolutely right.” He agreed. “Then again I could take a nap at the finish line instead of watching for you.” 
“Kid, I’ll level with ya. You don’t have a chance against her.” Asani commented. 
“What makes you think that?” 
“Cause I can’t out run her. Ni, can’t out run her. Kopa sure as hell can’t out run her. I’m pretty sure she could show a cheetah a thing or two.” He said complimenting her. She flung her head up high and strolled about the camp, basking in the complements. 
“That’s cause I’m the fastest kitty ever known, show me some love!” She proclaimed. As she finished, a black shadow sacked her to the ground forcing her to tumble nearly to the cliff. The creature rose up and backed away from her with a high pitched roar. 
“What the fuck!? Kill it!” Asani screamed, Amri, Kopa the entire pride went for the creature. It darted away and up into a tree, Amri leapt to catch him but he found his way up too high. 
“You son of a bitch! You try that again I’ll rend your hide!” Amri shouted. 
“That was your only warning. Get out of my territory!” He threatened. Amri could tell now, the creature was a panther. Saeska was alright aside from being a bit winded and frightened. 
“You got some balls you cheap shotting piece of shit. I’ll be sure to feed them to you if you ever get down.” Asani threatened as well. 
“Foolish mane-cats. You are out of your depth here. This is my domain, you will never see me coming before I take your necks.” He barked from atop the tree. Pacing along the branch he gazed down, examining each of them carefully. “But I wonder, are you willing to gamble the young’s life for a chance to kill me?” Kopa, Ni, Asani, Ni and Hakima all bellowed enormous roars to him. The panther simply laughed, knowing they couldn’t climb the trees fast enough to reach him. Nathari watched the barking match and thought out a plan. He knew something the panther did not. While he was distracted taunting the pride, Nathari snuck away to the base of the tree. With claws out full, he started up with ease. Saeska saw this in shock. Sure, she and the others could climb. But he glided up just like the panther. Nathari’s slim body and good muscle tone was the key, as he found the branch he crept a few feet before charging the panther. He didn’t get the chance to react. The blow knocked him off the tree, catching a branch with his claw before he could fall. Nathari smacked it, forcing the panther to the ground, staring into the faces of five angry lions. Sacking him, they began their attack, taking turns lashing and biting him. Saeska roared in and interjected, pushing her father, mother and others aside. 
“Stop stop stop!” She insisted. The panther tried to get up, but was already quite badly hurt. Stomping his chest, she pinned him and put herself face to face. “Say you’re sorry for attacking me!” She demanded. He didn’t answer, he refused. Instead groaning from his wounds, he tried to get up. Saeska backed off a bit to let him try to get to his feet. “Say you’re sorry panther, or I’ll let them have at you again!” 
“You demand an apology? For trespassing in my territory!?” He shouted angrily. 
“We weren’t trespassing, we’re passing through!” She protested. “If you had given us the chance we would have told you.” 
“Oh dear.” He moaned. “Well isn’t my face red. Since you put it that way.” He said rising to his feet. Nathari watched carefully as he got up. The panther gave a low growl, before snapping to her face. “DIE, BITCH-CAT!” He shrieked, lunging for her. Amri growled and about jumped in to intercept him, before Nathari crashed down on the panthers back. The snap was loud; he shattered the panther’s back, devastating his body. His eyes barely open, he spoke one last time. “She will feast… On.. Your… Blood.” Amri reached over and pulled his daughter in close. Hakima wrapped herself around the both of them and held tight. 
“My baby girl, are you alright?” She asked. She took a long deep breath before hanging her head. 
“I’m ok mommy.” She answered softly. Nathari stepped off of the creature, assured of its death and started towards her. 
“You ok Saeska?” He asked calmly. 
“Kido, nice fucking hit!” Asani complimented. “Just drop outta the sky and bam!” He laughed. 
“When did you even climb up?” Kopa wondered.
“While he was distracted with you. We had a lot of trouble with panthers in my old home as well, figured it was no different this time.” He explained. 
“Ha, funny you mention that. Back where I came from we had similar trouble as well.” Amri added with a smile. His paw dropping from his daughters back, she slowly walked up to Nathari. 
“Ahh, hi?” Nathari said, befuddled by her closeness. 
“You saved me.” She whispered. Nathari giggled once more and continued smiling at her. “You deserve it this time.” She announced, bounding into his lips. Nathari’s face all but melted at the touch of her lips. Pulling away, he left his mouth hanging open, completely dumbfounded. 
“You are so welcome.” He stammered. Saeska smiled, winking at him before Hakima interjected. 
“Come my girl, we still have a journey ahead of us.” She reminded her. 
“Let’s get going.” Amri agreed, leading the way this time. Following mostly single file along the cliff, the new couple along with Kopa and Keyah were the only ones following in pair. Entering the basin the ground was completely drenched. Nearly up to there elbows the ground seemed to swallow them up as they walked. 
“Ugh.” Keyah whined, pulling up a paw tangled in long grass and weeds. Shaking it off she continued walking alongside Kopa. 
“It’s not so bad sis.” She stated, pulling up a clump of it herself. “Here watch.” She said flicking it at Asani’s face. Landing smack in the middle of his forehead a few tangled bits of grass remained on his muzzle. Giving a quick shake, he shrugged it off and flung a good chunk back at her. His shot landing on the middle of her back made her shudder, nearly dipping to the ground. 
“AH! That’s cold!” She laughed shaking it off. The walk, though still hard was made more enjoyable as they carried on, flinging the few random cakes of grass, roots and fallen leaves. Giving the waterfalls a quick stop for refreshment, they started towards the one entrance to the canyon they knew. The afternoon sun was just hitting its high as they arrived, but looking down at there route made even Saeska shudder with fear. The path leading into the canyon, was a steep hill. Though manageable it fed into a fairly thin path, veiled mostly in darkness. Though the sun was high, it could not pierce the thick rock that overshadowed the nearly cavernous entrance. 
“Recognize this place Ni?” Amri asked. 
“I do, this pathway is called the dark. But it’s our only entrance to the canyon within a day or so range.” He replied.
“Question guys.” Nathari intruded. “There must have been another way to get to these, pridelands your going to right?” 
“There is, yes.” Amri pondered a moment. “But you see my boy, to cut around the great forest takes us into the plains we were in before. After that we would be running through some fairly dusty badlands where little food may exist then yes we could probably catch the pridelands from the south. The problem lies in the fact that within the plains are an abundance of rival prides. We’re quite strong, but to manage any takeover attempts, compete with kills and so on. Well, it might be a year before we actually arrived. Not many animals go through the forest save for some light game, panthers and monkeys etcetera. As for the canyon, we may be able to eat inside. Wildebeest use these areas to graze as they migrate, so we may catch a break in regards to food. But since nothing is consistent, no prides ever live here.”
“Ah, I see.” He said, gazing back down into the dark. 
“Come on, diver. You aren’t scared of the dark are you?” Asani asked, patting his back. 
“Diver?” Nathari wondered. 
“For diving out of that tree, that’s your name.” He explained. Ni, Kopa, Keyah, Kinu and Amri all shook their heads and groaned, covering their faces. 
“Oh for heaven’s sake, you are not going to nickname him now are you?” Ni pleaded.
“To late, smart ass.” He fired out quickly. Everyone let another groan escape before following behind Amri. 
“He nicknames everyone?” Nathari asked Kopa. 
“Yeah, he used to call me Scars.”
“You were Scars.” Asani started. “Ni was smart ass, Amri, old fart, Hakima, Greatmother, Keyah, hottie body, Kinu was Hisser and Saeska was speed-freak.” 
“And you were dumbass.” Ni threw in. Amri and Kopa laughed at the joke. 
“Why do you nickname everyone?” Nathari asked. 
“It’s all on my first impression of them. Ni was cleaver so I called him smart ass, Amri was wise beyond his years, so old fart. Hakima has always been greatmother. Keyah, being my old crush that she was, was hottie body. Kinu when I first met her would always hiss at me when I came by and well Saeska, if you ever see her run you’ll understand.”
“I liked my nickname.” Saeska shouted from the back. Nathari turned around and gave her a smile. She gave him one in return with another wink. Nathari chuckled but as they entered the dark pathway he lost his footing. Crying out he tumbled forward and was caught by Kopa. Helping him up, Nathari brushed his shoulders off and shyly laughed. 
“Be careful Nathari. I don’t want you to get hurt again.” Kopa pleaded. 
“Sorry, I will.” He swiftly agreed. Kopa pat his head and lead on alongside Amri. The path down was tricky, but as they found the bottom they met the dark ahead without fear. 
“We have to get through this before sundown.” Ni informed them. 
“Why?” Asani asked. 
“An old legend. But it’s something I would rather not find out to be true.”