They arrived at the bottom of the deep. With a glance up, the sun could barely breach between the rocks as they swerved down. The path ahead was shaded, the rocks and bushes mostly hidden and avoiding them was a daunting task. The depths they stood within were tight on either side. Spanning only a few feet across, they barely managed wiggle room through for themselves. They walked single file, Amri at the head while Kopa held the rear. Each step felt uneasy, as they had paced quietly along. 
“Hey, up ahead.” Ni proclaimed, pointing down the path. The first fork in the road was within sight.
“Hmm.” Amri pondered a moment. 
“Have you been through here before?” Asani asked. 
“No, I haven’t.” He confessed. “Shenzi spoke of this path though, she knew it well. When she was coming through it, she said her pack stayed to the right.” 
“So if we want to run the same route, we should stick left then.” Ni concluded. 
“Agreed.” Amri concluded. 
“Let’s not waste any time then.” Ni hurried, pushing to move on ahead. 
“What’s the rush?” Asani questioned, being prodded ahead by Ni. 
“Nothing we’ll need to worry about if we get through here quick enough.” He reiterated. “Let’s keep moving.” Walking along, and occasionally squeezing through the tightened walls of the rocks they found themselves at the second cross roads within. Amri continued with Shenzi’s advice and stayed along the left wall, avoiding the branching path. One by one, the pride walked by but as Saeska passed the opening, the strangest of scents caught her nose. She took a moment, hoping to catch it once more. Kinu tapped her backside, breaking her day dream. 
“What’s keeping you?” She asked. Saeska wondered a moment more, thinking this might be the only chance she gets to explore somewhere new, and strange to her. 
“Just a sec.” She blurted out, rushing down the path. 
“Saeska! No!” Kinu called out softly. Amri swung around, seeing she was no longer in line with the others.  
“Where is she?-“
“She headed down the other path Amri.” Nathari clamored over Kinu, shoving her out of the way. 
“I’ll go get her, wait here!” He shouted as he followed in her trail. Saeska continued to bolt on ahead. Bounding down the tight corridors she tried to pick up the odd scent. Another pathway unveiled itself just off to the right. The vision stole her breath. Webs, spanned all along the walls and strung across the path. Thick white threads made it nearly impossible to see much beyond a few feet. The scent flooded her nose, it was a most unusual oder it gave off. Somewhat sweet, a tang even, and strong now being so close. Nathari caught up and saw inside as well. 
“Ugh.” He shuddered. “Hate spiders. There must be hundreds here.” Saeska momentarily agreed, but upon looking around she noticed that not a web was moving. 
“There’s none here though.” She stated. 
“Good, least that’s one less worry.” She continued to peruse the web, soaking in the strange scent and enjoying it. Glancing up, the visage of a most peculiar creature was evident in the web. Gently moving Nathari aside, she tried to get a better angle on it. There were hooves, horns, and yet it didn’t look the right color to be a wildebeest. Gasping she made out the eyes, hollowed, the body had been dried out. She could only guess that its blood had been drained and left to rot. 
“Oh my.” She shuddered in fear. Nathari moved her aside now to get a better look. Seeing the creature, his eyes went wild as well. 
“Oh damn. That’s a wildebeest! How in the world did a spider get a hold of a wildebeest?!” He shouted. “Saeska, let’s go. We’ve waited around too long!” Nodding she swung around and followed him back towards the others. Arriving they found Kopa at the turn where they had left. Ni, was just up ahead of them. Panting they calmed down, Nathari was the first to explain. 
“You’re not going to believe what’s down there!”
“Something tells me I know.” Ni added. 
“It’s a wall of spider webs, inside; we could see a wildebeest hanging from it, bled dry!” Saeska cried out.
“A wildebeest? Are you serious?” Kopa asked in amazement. 
“Yeah! It was dried out and everything!” Saeska chirped in. Kopa slowly turned to Ni, who was rubbing his chin. 
“Know anything about it brother?” He asked. 
“Kind of.” He acknowledged. “See there’s an old story about a giant spider that lives within the depths of this place. However, no one in recent years has ever seen it. My father used to tell me stories about it when I was little. But what is understood, is that at night the dark here. Has been known to flood with a swarm of spiders, eager to collect anything caught in their web, or anything wondering on the ground.” 
“Venomous I suppose?” Kopa asked. 
“Yes and no, a single bite won’t do much to a lion like us. Maybe a little swelling at most. But a few hundred bites and well, that’s another story. Honestly, I have no intention of waiting around to find out.”
“Let’s get moving then.” Kopa agreed. Saeska and Nathari stayed close following behind as they lead up ahead. The pride awaited there return and began moving on as they arrived. Walking the remainder of the depths was quiet, Saeska was content not to follow any more unusual scents. With the afternoon sun beginning to seek the horizon they saw their exit. Amri walked out, gazing at the lands just below him. The sight was awe inspiring; crystal clear waters dotted the basin below. Shallow grass, verdant and waving in the wind trimmed the waters giving way to rock on either side of the canyon. Giant rocks seem strewn about, like pebbles cast on the ground, dotting the landscape and interrupting the green scenery. The cliffs ran high, a good few hundred feet. Much more to their satisfaction, was a herd of wildebeest that were grazing far off to the left. The canyon laid before them, seem to run far ahead, pitching off to the right and narrowing once again. This was the path he was certain they would travel. As they walked out one by one, they took turns gasping at the beauty before them. Kopa in particular was spell bound. 
“This place is gorgeous!” He cried out. “Why wouldn’t anyone want to live here?” Ni laughed as he walked aside him. 
“To an herbivore, yes. Carnivores like us, no. See that wildebeest herd is probably from your old home. They must run down here to graze without being disturbed.” He explained. 
“Let’s get down there and grab a bite to eat.” Asani chuckled, following down along the path. A thin trail lead them down into the base of the canyon. Hakima and Keyah took ahead to hunt the wildebeest, while Asani and the others found a nearby pool to drink. Sating their thirst, they patiently awaited the girls return with a fresh kill. Thankfully there wait was not long. Hakima was effective in bringing down a bull while Keyah clenched its throat and killed it. Hefting it back, the family dug in, filling their stomachs once more. 
“You know, honestly I didn’t think we would catch a thing in here.” Amri said, chewing on the fresh meat.
“Neither did I. I’m used to having to starve every time we move.” Asani agreed.
“Thank you baby, for the food. You to Greatmother.” Kopa complimented as he ate. Hakima nodded while Keyah smooched his cheek. 
“You’re welcome baby.” She giggled. Asani let out an ear shattering belch, interrupting there cuddly moment. Rolling her eyes she shook her head. 
“Pig!” She quipped.
“I know you love it.” He laughed. Suddenly to both their surprise, Nathari answered with a belch of his own. Asani slowly turned his head, breaking a smile as he looked to him. “Oh really?” he laughed. Kopa jumped in with one as well, Keyah’s face contorted as she sunk into her paws. 
“Oh no, not you to!” She begged, letting a chuckle escape. 
“My love, do you think we should intervene.” Hakima asked. Amri laughed and shook his head. 
“So long as it’s not coming out the other end I don’t care.” Saeska and Kinu laughed as well, watching as the boys each took turns flexing their gut muscles.

The night sky was clear for once. The stars all about shined bright from the pale waning moon. The air was crisp and cool, as Asani laid on his back gazing up into the sky. Content with his meal, and self proclaimed win in the previous belching contest, he seemed almost ready to doze off to sleep.
“What’s up?” Kopa asked, as he approached. Asani glanced down and rolled himself back onto his belly. 
“Sup Scars.” He replied with a yawn to follow up. 
“Scars again?” Kopa laughed. 
“Whatever, Kopa.” He restated. “So, your girlfriends still pissy about the vote I guess huh?” Settling down himself, he heaved a sigh and nodded. 
“Seems she is.” 
“I don’t get it. All I did was go with what Amri decided, suddenly I’m the bad guy to her.”
“She’ll let it go eventually. If not I’ll talk to her. It’s not right for her to carry on like that.” Kopa assured him. 
“Yeah, probably.” He agreed. “You wanna know something Kopa?” 
“Sure, what?” He wondered. 
“I used to hate your sorry ass.” He confessed. Kopa laughed at the thought, as if he didn’t make that obvious in the past. 
“You don’t say?!” He replied jokingly. “Never would have guessed.” 
“Yeah, it’s true. But the funny thing is, I didn’t hate you for being a lazy bastard, or eating our food when you didn’t hunt and that shit.” He carried on. He took a brief pause before continuing. “I hated you for taking Keyah away from me.” Kopa’s smile faded, taking a more serious tone to his face. 
“Is that so?” He said trailing off. Asani nodded and continued to explain. 
“See, the way I had it figured. Me, Amri and Ni got the pride. Which means, the females, were ours. You came into the picture that was fine. I don’t think you remember but I even took care of you a fair amount when you were little. But then I saw the way Keyah fawned over you, snuck in her little licks and cuddles now and then. That really started to bug me.” 
“I hardly noticed her doing it at first. By the heavens, I was so out of it for so long.” Kopa reminded himself. The days at the time, were so short, blended together and were filled with painful baths and attempts to walk. 
“That was the only slack I cut you. You didn’t reciprocate, you hardly knew she was there. See, the way I took it, I got Keyah. Ni would get Kinu or Sorana, and maybe you got Saeska, IF you were lucky.” 
“But, then I hit adolescents.” Kopa added in. Asani huffed rolling onto his back once more. 
“Yep.” Asani nodded in agreement. “Maybe it was the kind hug now and then, or the little kiss you snuck in, in return. But I was pissed. That’s my fucking girl, I kept telling Ni.” He stated, punching the air with each word. 
“So what changed?” Kopa asked. 
“Not a damn thing. Least, not till one night I saw you two together and Ni kind of reminded me about something. So, I talked with Hakima for a while. Really sat down and listened to what she had to say. She told me, the heart makes the choice that guides us to the ones we love.” Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and sighed. “And her heart, was bound to yours.” 
“I do love her.” 
“No shit, but here’s the part that really resonated with me. When I told her, that Keyah was supposed to be mine, she called me a fucking idiot.” He laughed. 
“Well I doubt she said it like that.” Kopa laughed as well. 
“She said it like that!” He reaffirmed sharply. “You, are a fucking idiot. I had never heard her talk like that. She said, Keyah isn’t property. No one belongs to anyone, a lioness might submit to a dominant male out of respect for tradition but she’s never bound to it. That, was why Fatima left me. I treated her like property, and she bailed.”
“Fatima?” Kopa asked. 
“My mate, before we picked up you. She was Sorana’s sister. I singled her out, started taking to her right away like a reckless child. She spat in my face one day, told me to fuck myself instead and left.” Asani laughed as he got up and looked off towards the cliff and the night sky. “You know, I got it then. I got what she meant. I would have treated Keyah the exact same way, and I think she knew it. That’s why she loved you so much. You were her salvation from me.”
“There’s more reason then that you know.” Kopa interjected. Asani waved his paw dismissing the statement. 
“I know I know! But the point is, I knew you would treat her right. That’s when I stopped hating you.” Kopa smiled, walking over to Asani he sat beside him. 
“You know, if you want some lessons on lionesses, I think I can offer you some. Won’t take anytime either.” He offered. 
“Oh yeah? What’s that?” Asani whispered. 
“If you want love, be yourself and wait as long as it takes to find it. You want a decent mate, be patient with her and show proper respect. You want an easy lay well, you got your mouth, don’t ya?” He laughed, patting Asani’s shoulder. Quietly he could hear him laughing. Glancing to Kopa he started laughing to. Before he knew it Asani was in an uproar laughing alongside Kopa. After settling down, they both stared up into the sky, gazing at the stars. 
“You got lots of lionesses in your little kingdom back home right?” Asani questioned. 
“Yeah, least I remember there being some.” Kopa agreed, his memories still a bit foggy. 
“You put in a good word for me then.” 
“With pleasure.” Kopa nodded. Asani swung around, giving Kopa a quick pat on the head. 
“Glad to have you around kid.”
“It’s good to be here.” He said softly, as they walked back to the pride together. 

Rejoining the others, they gave one last nod before parting to find a place to sleep. Kopa sought out his mate who was eagerly awaiting him and giggled as he laid down beside her. 
“Talking with Asani?” She asked. 
“Yeah, was a good talk.” He replied. 
“What did the pig have to say?” She asked again, this time with a condescending laugh. Kopa gave her a firm glare and sighed. 
“Enough of that. Asani has his faults but you know, he’s a good lion. He trained me, he’s still training me. He keeps in mind what’s best for the pride and when he doesn’t know what to do, he puts his faith in us.” He scolded lightly. She was shocked at the fact he was defending him, withdrawing a bit she lowered her head. 
“Alright I’m sorry.” She apologized hastily. Kopa pulled her back closer to him. 
“Look, I know now he respects me, he loves our pride and he knows how much I love you. He encourages it.” 
“Maybe, but it’s hard for me to believe, remembering the way he used to just gawk at me. Calling me hottie body all the time was ugh.” She shuddered.
“But those days are over. I love you, and he knows it.” He assured her, sneaking a quick kiss to her cheek. She smiled and closed her eyes. Slowly leaning her head into his shoulder. 
“I guess I can forgive him.” She decided, whispering to Kopa. Pulling her back into their usual sleeping position, he guided her onto her side and into his mane. Wrapping his arms around her he smiled, feeling her warmth envelope him. 
“Love you baby.” He whispered. 
“I love you to.” She cooed, kissing his neck. His eye’s closing he could feel himself starting to drift off to sleep. The cool grass with her warm body was an amazing combination. 
“Saeska?” Nathari called. After having a drink from the pool nearby she toddled her way over. 
“What’s up Nathari?”
“Want to crash together tonight?” He asked with a cool smirk. Rolling her eyes with a smile she shook her head. 
“Not tonight handsome. I’m sleeping with my mom and daddy tonight.” She replied. 
“Oh.” He trailed, the cool melting from his face. Giggling she lunged for his cheek, giving a quick peck. 
“Good night Nathari.” She said, with a turn to her parents. Nathari watched as she was engulfed by her father’s arm and mothers side, settling in for the night. Seeing her cuddled so close to her parents fueled a desire within him to be close to someone as well. He saw Asani sleeping on his own, but not far from Amri’s side. Close to him as well laid Ni and Kinu, wrapped up once more in each other’s arms. In a near perfect copy, were Kopa and Keyah. They slept just off to the right of him, a dozen or so feet from Kinu and Ni. Swallowing his desires, he settled into the cool grass with a shudder, trying his best to fall asleep. 

The night was quiet, calm and still. No wind swept the canyon and the stars were lit bright with no clouds to obstruct them. On the ground though, Nathari tossed about and moaned. He was suffering another nightmare. Abruptly he woke, his eyes shooting around the basin, searching for whatever terror had struck him in his dreams. After a few gasping breaths, he managed to calm himself down. He placed his paw on his head, closing his eyes he scratched and groaned. 
“Stop, fucking with my head.” He whispered. With the last word escaping, a snapping sound, was suddenly audible behind him. In panic he bound up and looked. He surveyed the area carefully, to find nothing. A black inky veil shrouded the walls of the canyon, while the grass simply stood erect, unmoving. “Anyone there?” He softly called to the dark. Waiting he heard no reply. His gaze shifting towards the entrance that brought them here, he heard yet another sound. This one softer, less distinguished, like grass shifting just to his left. He darted to the direction, but once again found only the veil before him. He could feel his heart starting to race, turning back towards the others, they all remained still, fast asleep. He turned once again to the canyon wall. His eyes, adjusting to the dark. He could make out a strange shape. A lion? He thought, perhaps something else. Another cat, panther, cheetah? His mind continued to barrage the strange visage with questions. This time he heard a small rock tumbled far ahead. Now it was becoming too much for him. With a moan of terror he darted for Kopa and Keyah, jabbing at his side he leaned into his ear. 
“Kopa, Kopa get up! I hear something!” He insisted. Kopa huffed a moment, his eyes barely open he gently lowered Keyah down and addressed him. 
“Nathari? What is it?”
“Kopa I hear something. Off in the dark up ahead!” He pleaded to him. Kopa wiped at his eyes, trying to stir himself awake. 
“Did you get a look at it?” He asked. 
“I don’t know. I think it was a cat, or maybe something else.” Nathari shuddered. “Oh no, what if it’s those spiders that Ni talked about. The webs we saw!” He cried. 
“Alright, easy I’ll have a look.” He hushed him, giving Nathari a brief hug.
“What’s going on?” Keyah asked, stirring awake now. 
“Something is bothering Nathari, give me a moment, see if I see or hear anything.” Kopa explained. Walking a bit ahead of Nathari, Kopa paced back and forth for a moment, stopping now and then to listen intently to any disturbances in the grass. He hoped that some wind would brush up, offering him a scent of sorts but it was dead. If any wind was blowing, it was up far above the canyon. He gave it a good while, but heard nothing and saw nothing moving through the shadows. Satisfied he turned back to Nathari and sat before him. “Whatever it was, it’s gone now. Pretty sure I know what it was.” He said with a yawn. 
“What?” Nathari asked eagerly. 
“We’re probably not the only ones who know about this passage. It’s a quiet spot, and probably a safe and easy route for rogues to travel. If it was a rogue lion he wouldn’t go for you anyway, he can see you have a pride with you.” 
“Oh, ok.” Nathari sighed, accepting his conclusion. “Sorry for waking you Kopa.” 
“It’s alright kido.” He nodded, with another yawn. Kopa wandered back over to Keyah and lay down. Ready to hold her once more, he paused and looked at Nathari. He was hunched down, still trembling, clearly frightened from whatever had been out there. He gazed down at Keyah, who was half asleep with arms stretched out. 
“Coming to sleep baby?” She moaned.
“Poor kid.” He whispered, gesturing off towards Nathari. Keyah turned her head and caught a glimpse of him huddled in the grass shivering. 
“Aww.” She moaned once more. "The poor thing."
“Hey, Nathari!” Kopa called. His head shot up turning towards him. “Over here.” Wasting little time, he got up and rushed over to them. 
“What’s wrong? Did you see it?” He asked. 
“No no no, come here.” Kopa insisted again, guiding him down between him and Keyah. Laying on their side, they took turns wrapping him up and pulled themselves close with him. His adolescent body was snug, fitting his head into Kopa’s neck as his hind legs squished against their waist and thighs. Kopa and Keyah’s bodies were warm, their arms like blankets across his chilled body reaching for each other. Though his face nearly drowned in Kopa’s mane, he still found it relatively easy to breath. 
“You cozy there Nathari?” Keyah asked softly. 
“Ye-yeah. Thank you.” He replied. Adjusting himself a bit to get comfortable. “This is so nice of you, you don’t have to do this you know?” 
“You’re a sweet boy, I’d hate to see you out there in the cold alone.” She cooed, closing her eyes. Leaning over she stole another kiss from Kopa before settling herself back to sleep. 
“Stay with us whenever you want.” Kopa added, closing his eyes. With a smile, Nathari embraced there warmth and settled his eyes as well, dozing back to sleep.

The sun began to crest over the cliffs of the canyon. The ground was still cold and very damp from the moist air over night. Beads of mist formed on the tips of the prides paws, lying still from there long night sleep. Little did they know, they were being watched, stalked by a strange and unfamiliar lioness. She was strong, her body in good shape was coated in a soft shade of brown. Two golden colored stripes trailed from the top of her neck down her back. Her eyes, shared the color of her coat and her belly was a soft tan color. She crept around them, swift and soft as a shadow, she honed in on Asani, the only lion sleeping alone. Caution guiding each stride she overshadowed his body, straddled him and extended her claws. Carefully she placed them at his throat, while slamming his muzzle with her free paw. He woke immediately in shock, looking to her in a panic. 
“Don’t move pretty boy, or it’ll be the last time you ever do!” She threatened quietly. “I’m going to ask you a few questions, give me straight answers and this is all a bad dream, got it?” Asani glared at her angrily, but eventually he gave a slow nod. “Good boy. What are you doing here?” She asked releasing his mouth. 
“Passing through. Next question bitch.” He whispered. She gave a quick laugh and snarled with her next question. 
“Where are you going?” 
“None of your fucking business, that’s where we’re going.” He snapped. 
“Ah ah ah! Tsk tsk tsk tsk. Bad boy. I said straight answers, and my claws are getting itchy in your filthy mane. Where, are, you, going?” She demanded, sinking her claws in little by little. Asani flinched as he felt the tips press against his flesh. 
“None, of your, fucking, business. Go ahead and kill me, see how far you get before my pride cuts you to pieces.” He fired back. Gasping he felt her claws dig once more. 
“You test my patience, what little I have.” She threatened once again. But as she dug, she felt the sting of claws at her throat now. To her astonishment, Ni had awoke and got the better of her, sneaking up from behind. Now held her life hostage. 
“Let him go, now.” He warned softly. Kinu was behind her as well, blocking off any escape route she might take. 
“Gonna risk the pretty boys life?” She asked. Gasping she felt his claws dig into her neck. Small streams of blood ran down as she closed her eyes and shuddered. 
“I’m not gambling, you harm anyone I love. I’ll skin you alive and let the vultures pick up the pieces.” He calmly stated. He gave her some time, but she couldn’t risk her life now. She knew she was beat, at least for the moment. She carefully pulled her claws off Asani, letting him get up and cut off any other route for escape. Everyone was stirring awake now, as they guided her over to Amri and Hakima. A few feet from them, Ni slammed her to the ground hard. Asani putting pressure on her tail end while Ni held her scruff in his maw. 
“What’s this you found?” Amri asked. 
“She had me pinned when I woke up, claws at my throat. Bitch thought she could pull information from me.” Asani explained. Kopa, Keyah and Nathari joined them along with Saeska who had finally awoke. The formed a perimeter around her. 
“Young lady.” Amri began, leaning down to meet her face to face. “I strongly suggest you explain yourself before we decide to remove you as a future threat.”
“Fine, you want an explanation, here you go. You’re in my turf, I know this place better than anyone! But you come in here, with your pack of lions and start picking off my prey. You don’t even look for anyone else, you just settle in like you own this place!” She fired angrily. 
“We are not here to stay, we are moving on. Our destination is the Pridelands.” Amri replied. 
“The Pridelands? The hell do you want with that place?”
“None of your business!” Asani sharply interjected, pressing harder on her backside. 
“Asani, settle down.” Amri demanded. Replacing his face back to hers he addressed her calmly once more. “What do you know of the Pridelands young one?” She looked away a moment, seeing Hakima and Saeska’s faces. She turned to the other side to see Kopa, Keyah and Nathari. “Come now. There’s no escape, if you behave yourself and answer for your actions we will let you go unharmed. Do you understand? What do you know, of the Pridelands?”
“Same thing everyone else does. There at war. So unless you plan on going there to fight for one of them, which is of course utter bullshit. You’re here for something else.” 
“At war? With, oh dear. Kopa what was her name?” Amri asked. 
“Zira.” 
“Yes, that’s it, there at war with Zira?” Amri reaffirmed. She cringed shaking her head. 
“I don’t know who the hell it is, I just know there fighting against someone.” She fired again frustrated.
“Not anymore, we saw the corpse of the enemy prides leader. She’s dead, and without a doubt the war is over. We have one among us that once belonged to Simba’s pride. We are heading there to speak with him about some personal matters.” He explained. “Now, since we have been quite upfront with you, can we at least get the same respect? Tell us, who are you?” Asani and Ni, loosened their hold on her, allowing her to get up. They still stood guard should she run, but relaxed there hostilities for the moment. The lioness scratched at her scruff, sore from being pinned by it for so long. 
“Names Sierra. I’ve lived here all my life. This is my territory, my home and your trespassing in it. But, if all you are doing is heading towards the pridelands I might just believe you. Though I’ve seen a few others heading the opposite way.” She stated. 
“Who have you seen?” Ni asked. 
“Well, couple of hyena’s. Some game animals, few cheetahs among other things.”
“Do you always greet them with claws at their necks?” Asani interrogated. 
“Yes, in fact I do. You can’t trust anyone when you live alone, and I have to make sure that I’m the one with the upper paw. Most predator and prey alike are compliant enough when I catch them. Though I must admit, you’re the first pride to try the trek though here in a long time.” She answered turning towards him. 
“What about family, where are you from?” Kopa asked. Shutting her eyes a moment she waved him off.
“Personal, and none of your business.”
“Fair enough.” Amri agreed. “Perhaps we can work something out? Your services in exchange for something you desire?” 
“Services?” She asked confused. “What services?” 
“We have a good idea on how to get there, but it would require a fair amount of trial and error. We don’t know the branching pathways well; we could use a guide. If you can expedite our trip to the pridelands.” He suggested. She gave a sarcastic laugh, glaring at Amri wondering if he was serious. 
“You want me, to help you get to the pridelands?” 
“Would get us out of your fur faster.” Ni quickly added. 
“That is true.” She agreed. “But what’s in it for me?” 
“What would you like?” Amri offered. 
“Getting your buddies here to stop crowding me would be a good start.” She grumbled, glancing around at them. Amri nodded, letting them give her some breathing space. Sierra began pacing back and forth, pondering what she could demand from them. Though there was not much she wanted, she decided to go with something simple for now. “Alright, how bout this. You jacked up my hunting pattern, scattering those wildebeest last night. My stomach ain’t satisfied with grass and leaves. You repay that kill, a fresh kill and I’ll take you through the fastest route to the elephant graveyard.” She proclaimed. 
“The elephant graveyard? We want to go to the pridelands.” Kopa interjected. Taking a deep breath she gazed up and swung around to face Kopa. 
“Elephant graveyard. It’s the territory that encompasses there northern border, this canyon is connected to the caverns within it. Get through the graveyard which should be abandoned by now, and you’re in the cozy little block of the pridelands. You sure you’ve been to there? I’m starting to really wonder.” She asked leaning in close to his face. 
“I was born there.” Kopa replied. Sierra broke out in laughter turning away from him. 
“Bullshit, unless you were blind you would have noticed them.” She mocked. “So I’m starting to really question this little story of yours.” 
“This boy.” Amri interrupted. “Was once Prince Kopa, Simba’s first born son.” Sierra still shook her head.
“Simba’s son is dead. Word like that got around fast, specially when I pull all my information at the tip of a claw.” 
“I can assure you, this is true. If you look at his body, you will see why Simba was lead to believe he died.” Amri insisted. She gave Kopa a quick once over, noting what she had already noticed before. 
“Yeah I see the scars alright. But enough bullshit stories. Fetch that wildebeest, a buck, a good one. You hold up your end, and I’ll get you to your pridelands in one piece. After that though, it’s all you.” Kinu, Saeska and Keyah turned around heading toward where they had caught the wildebeest last night. As they started, Keyah only made a few feet before something in her stomach started to bother her terribly. Kinu rushed over while Keyah stopped to sit up, hunching over while she hacked away.
“Keyah, sis what’s wrong?” Kinu pleaded. Kopa rushed himself over just in time to see Keyah throw up. Hakima rushed quickly to join them and began patting Keyah’s back, comforting her in her sudden sickness. 
“My girl, just let it out. Don’t hold back, it is better for you to empty then to suffer the pains.” She advised. Keyah continued tossing up while the girls and Kopa offered comfort. Believing to be done, she quickly concealed the mess with dirt and walked towards the water. “Kopa, can you join the girls please? They could use a good strong back to help them carry a beast or two home.” Kopa didn't want to go, he desired to stay at his sick mates side. But knowing she was in good care would have to suffice. 
“On my way.” He agreed, walking with Saeska and Kinu. Hakima stroked Keyah’s back as she dipped into the water to drink. 
“Feel a little better?” She asked. Keyah paused momentarily to nod before dipping her muzzle back into the water. With a smile she continued to stroke at her back. “Thirsty hmm?” 
“Just trying to get the taste out of my mouth really.” 
“Well, you drink as much as you need. The cub will need it.” She suggested with a smile. Keyah pulled her head out once more and smiled back at her. 
“Yeah, figured I was pregnant now.” Keyah laughed.  
“Yes. The thirst, the sickness in the mornings, you’ll suffer that for a few days. I’m all too familiar with it. You come to me if you feel anything strange my girl.” Hakima happily offered, kissing Keyah’s neck. 
“Thank you great mother.” Keyah moaned, throwing herself into her arms. 
“Oh Keyah, I’m so proud of you.” Hakima chuckled, stroking her back still while she hugged. 

Kinu, Saeska and Kopa soon returned with two wildebeest. Kopa in particular was exhausted, having to heft the creature alone for such a long time. Kinu and Saeska flopped there kill in front of Sierra and walked off, not giving so much as a second look. Kopa threw his before the others and settled them in for a good, however late breakfast. Finishing their meal, the boys all went over to Sierra, who was still happily chewing away at her food. 
“Satisfied?” Asani asked. Sierra took her time chewing the bit of meat she had ripped and gazed at them. She smiled, mocking them making it seem as though she was mooching the kill they brought. 
“It’s not bad I suppose. Though I tend to enjoy the more tender meats then the tough.” She commented. 
“Next time, pick a cow, you associate better with them I’m sure.” Ni retorted. 
“Oh? This one has wits all of a sudden.” She laughed. “Mock me all you like, perhaps I’ll simply doddle when it comes to guiding you through the canyon.” 
“Doddle, through the canyon?” Amri questioned angrily. With a sigh she threw aside the bone she had been stripping and shook her head. 
“If you offend me anymore I might just have to dump you off at the nearest spider nest.” With an arrogant huff she turned away and dug back into the food. “Such a shame if that happened.” Amri gave off a low growl and moved in much closer, he was infuriated by the fact she would even dare to double cross them on their deal. 
“Nathari, go back to the others. Boys?” He gestured towards Sierra. “Put her down.” 
“What?” She eked, watching the trio circle around her with teeth bared. “Whoa whoa whoa, let’s not be hasty here. It was just a joke guy, can’t you take a joke?” 
“Do we look like were laughing?” Kopa asked, closing in on her. 
“Pin her to the ground.” Amri ordered quietly, as he joined the others. Asani threw her chest to the ground hard, watching the fear grow in her eyes as they closed in, there fangs ready to sink into her flesh. Amri bumped Ni aside and grabbed her muzzle with his paw. “My pride does not like it when someone double crosses us. We acted in good faith, and now you threaten to abandon your end of our bargain. If your word is so meaningless, then I have no use for you.” 
“Please look, I’ll take you there. Fastest way, just like I promised ok, just don’t kill me.” She pleaded. 
“Give me one good reason for me to call off the boys and spare you.” Amri demanded. She couldn’t think, all she could see were the fangs hovering over her throat. “Speak!” Amri barked.
“Ok! Ok, ok listen. You don’t know what it’s like out here alright. So excuse me for a lack of manners, it’s not like I’ve met any other lions before. Bet you don’t even know what that’s like in your perfect little pride.” She explained. Asani laughed, throwing himself off her chest. 
“Bullshit, I know exactly what that’s like. I was chased out of my home when I was 4 months old. I had to fight for food being the size of a rodent, think I had it easy?”
“You see, your story is not a lone one.” Amri continued. “Is this all you aspire to be, rogue? Exploit creatures, take information until your body fails you and the sun sets on your life. Is this a worthy use of your talents?” Sierra freed herself and looked away from him in a huff. She tried her best to ignore Amri’s outburst. “Prove to us you’re good to your word, and perhaps we will show you something much more worthy of you. Something you deserve more, then dwelling in a crack with spiders and rats.” Walking a little ahead she steadied herself a moment before looking back. 
“Come on, sooner I get you there, the sooner you’re out of my hair.” 
“Asani, fetch the others. Let’s get moving.” Amri ordered. 

The canyons verdant grasslands were falling further and further behind them as they walked. Sierra lead the way through a narrowing and winding path. The ground became hard, much more rock like then dirt. It seemed the further they delved the higher they were going. For the lack of grass, the canyons paths did offer some astounding sights and beauty. The pillars that occasionally dotted the landscape were strange and beautiful, streaks of rock in shades of brown, orange and red ran all along the length. The walls were painted in similar fashion, save for a few patches where it had slid and crumbled. The small fragmented debris on the road the only evidence of minor rockslides. 
“Hope you boys and girls aren’t afraid of heights.” Sierra called from the front. “When I first came here, there was a path, took you up to the top of this here plateau. Another ramp just a few paces across took you down past the drop off and back on the route to the pridelands. Few years ago, nasty storm blew in, created the little lake up in the corner, knocked over the piller in the middle and with it took out the path.” 
“So how do we get up?” Ni asked. 
“Well that’s why I wonder about your fear of heights. See the pillar came down, and crushed the path but, it stuck just high enough you can walk the rest of the way to the top. Thing is though, that pillar is slippery, and unstable. Gotta keep a sure paw on there or you’re gonna end up a stain on the ground.”
“So how do you know it’s safe?” Asked Hakima. 
“You go two at a time, no more. Anymore weight you might send it down.” Sierra warned. 
“Anyway to get there aside from the pillar of apparent death?” Asani joked. 
“Not unless you got a thing for spiders.” She smiled. “Come on, were not far now.” Running just ahead, she lead them through the path that wound off to the left and out into an opening. Sure enough just ahead like she informed them, a stone pillar, down was buried into the side of the cliff. Rubble lined the ground beneath from when it had toppled but a route through the formation was visable. Approaching the stump, Sierra gave it a good pat before looking off to the girls. “Come on ladies, you first.” She insisted. 
“Why them first?” Nathari somewhat whined. Sierra shook her head at Amri before returning back to him. 
“And the old fart says I don’t have manners. If this thing goes, wouldn’t you want the ladies to have the safest route, hmm?” She questioned. 
“Yeah, guess you’re right.” He confessed. 
“Good, now quite your belly aching and move aside. Come on girls, just listen to what I tell you and you’ll be fine.” She instructed. Keyah and Saeska were the first to step up to the Pillars shattered base. A fair jump got them up on its slanted surface. Leaping up, Sierra came up for guidance and started to talk them through. “Alright now, see to the right here, the chunk missing? It’s a little tight but get your footing on there and you should be able to reach the top. Once you’re up, wait for your partner ok?” Saeska and Keyah nodded and one by one, went ahead. Carefully walking along the side that had broken off, they leapt up and caught the top with relative ease. “Alright now, second part and this is important. You see the little ridge along the middle there, dips down then up to the second big chunk there? Keep a foot on either side. The right is the most steep, and most likely slick from the rain, once you get to the end, I want you girls to holler down to me.” 
“Got it!” Keyah called back. Saeska happily bound along and up to the second chunk of pillar while Keyah carefully plotted each pace. The ascension up the rock was fairly easy here, but seeing the chunk ahead gave Keyah shivers. It was steep, at least a fifty degree slant. However she managed to arrive close by to Saeska. 
“Good. You see the top there? The rest of the path leading up!” Sierra cried out. 
“Yeah!” Saeska called back. 
“Alright show your muscle now, just along the left you should feel a little dip in the rock. Grab around, see if you can reach it!” Saeska pressed herself up against the rock and felt along the left side, her paw found the small dip in the rock and took a good grip. 
“I got it!” 
“Good, use that if you need it, but dig in tight with those claws so you don’t slide, and get up to the top! Once your there, you should see the path and just keep going up.” Sierra at last advised. Saeska dug in tight and with little trouble found her way up to the top, bound up to the path with a smile. 
“Too easy!” She laughed. Sierra chuckled looking to Amri. 
“Spunky kid.” 
“You have no idea.” He nodded. Turning back she watched as Keyah made her way and joined Saeska on a roam to the top to watch. 
“Alright, you, you, go on.” She directed, pointing to Hakima and Kinu. “Now I trust you were paying attention right?” 
“Yes.” Kinu sighed. Sierra continued to monitor as each group went up in pairs. Another surprise to her was how fast Nathari bolted up. Gliding over the pillar and nearly leaping the length of the final chunk. As Amri and Kopa found their way up, only Sierra and Asani were left at the bottom. 
“You’re turn pretty boy.” She said, jabbing his side. 
“Ladies first, oh wait.” He cut off, giving a quick lean towards her backside. “Yeah I suppose you count.” 
“Ha, I did the same thing to you not an hour ago, how come I didn’t find anything?” She retorted with a grin. Leaping up the stump and working up she and Asani began to cross. As they reached the end, she jumped up to reach for the slot. “Remember it’s on the left side, right he-“ She cut herself off, a huge crack sounded below them. Asani froze along with Sierra. 
“The fuck was that.” He asked, startled by the noise. She waited a moment, careful not to move, but another crack sounded, this one with a rumble behind it. 
“Shit! Get down, now!” The words barely made it out before the chunk in front of her began to teeter off to the right. Asani felt the rocks movement as he rushed towards the stump. They made just over halfway down before it really started to go. “Left! Jump left! Now!” Sierra screamed, as the pillar began to tumble off to the left, threatening to drag them both with it. Leaping from it, they landed hard on the ground tumbling over and over. Asani, quickly steadied himself and looked up. With a huge crash that boomed through the canyon, the pillar had fallen to the ground, blocking the way back through. Asani rubbed his hind leg, sore from the fall, and not quite fully recovered from the battle weeks ago. 
“Asani!!” Ni cried out at the top of his lungs. “Asani are you ok!?” 
“Yeah! Yeah I’m fine! Just a little trip.” He huffed, shaking himself out. Looking to Sierra his face grew long. She was stuck on her backside having trouble getting up. “Hey, you ok?” He asked urgently. 
“I’m fine, I’m fine. Just rolled my ankle, need a second.” She dismissed. 
“Kay, take your time.” Asani started towards the base of the cliff and looked up; he could see everyone at the top looking down worried. “We’re ok, she just rolled her ankle, I think she’ll be alright.” Hobbling her way over, Sierra joined him and looked up to the others. 
“Keep going across alright, you’ll get to a ramp leading back down into the canyon! Wait there until we arrive!” She advised them. 
“No, I’m not leaving my brother on his own! I’ll come to you!” Ni shouted. 
“Don’t be a fool! If you try there’s a shear drop leading back to us, you’ll kill yourself!” Sierra immediately argued. 
“Damn it! What are we going to do?!” Ni pleaded. 
“There isn’t much we can do, let us head to where she advised for now and wait.” Amri suggested as he turned towards the ramp she proposed was there. 
“And leave him alone, with her?!”
“Easy Ni, I think if anyone can handle any trickery from her, it’s Asani.” Kopa advised. 
“Indeed.” Hakima agreed. “But I think the boy has something else in mind.” 
“What?” they all asked. They turned to see Nathari dangling himself over the cliff. 
“Nathari no, what are you doing!?” Kopa shouted rushing over. 
“Trust me.” He said sternly as Kopa halted before him. Nathari began his descent, his feet catching on a few protruding rocks, dug out from the pillars fall. Swiftly he found each step, lowering himself further and further. He kicked out a few of his foot holds as he made it near the bottom, landing between the wreckage of the pillars. Kopa just watched from the top in absolute awe, he never dared to climb down such a steep cliff. The display was inspiring to him, he felt the need to at least try. 
“I’m going with him, you guys go on ahead, we’ll catch up.” Kopa announced. 
“No!” Keyah screamed rushing over. 
“They might need me down there!” He pleaded. 
“Your cub needs you more!” She protested. Kopa immediately darted back to her, his eyes went wide. Tearing up she flung herself into him. 
“Kopa I’m pregnant, so please don’t go, stay with me.” He shut his eyes tight and held her fast. He couldn’t believe it was true, the joy was indescribable. Looking down he shouted once more. 
“Nathari, watch your back! Be safe, we’ll do everything we can to help!” 
“You got it Kopa!” He hollered back. Asani watched as Sierra tried to hobble away from the cliff. Her hind leg kicked out with every step, unable to handle the weight of her body. One particular step she kicked out hard, nearly falling to the ground in the process. 
“Fuck!” She shouted.
“Hopeless.” Asani muttered, strolling over to her. “Come on, up.” He insisted, swinging her arm over his back. She protested a little at first, but as the weight came off her feet she forfeited any argument and sighed. 
“Stuck with you now aren’t I pretty boy.” 
“Why do you keep calling him pretty boy?” Nathari asked. 
“Look at him, he’s a pretty boy. Muscled up, cocky, arrogant, I could smell the pig headedness leading you here.” 
“You’re not exactly in a position to be cracking jokes.” Asani quickly retorted. 
“Oh ho, that’s where you’re wrong handsome. With that pillar down, there’s only one way back to your family up there and it ain’t a smooth road.” She stated, gesturing off towards a cave across from them. Nathari cringed, swinging to Sierra. 
“Spiders?” He asked nervously. 
“Mmhmm.” She nodded. 
“Ugh, I hate spiders.” Sierra slowly turned back to him, her expression completely baffeled by his statement. 
“You hate spiders. You fucking swing down an entire damn cliff like a monkey, yet you’re afraid of a few bugs?!” She asked in astonishment.
“Girls got a point.” Asani laughed.
“Shut up you rogue.” He shunned, looking away from her. 
“Oh, we got a bad ass over here!” She mocked again. 
“Knock it off, the both of you. Why did you come down here anyway kid?” Asani asked. 
“I don’t trust her. I came down here to watch your back.”
“Oh good, do just that. Stay behind me, watch for anything fishy. And you, little miss free ride, point the way.” 
“Off to the north there, that’s the cave.” She directed, pointing straight ahead. Asani nodded and started off. “Good puppy.” She giggled patting his head. Asani shook off her paw and grunted. They worked there way across the valley, passing the stream far to their right, and sure enough the caves entrance was just ahead. Asani didn’t have much trouble hefting the weight of Sierra on his back. A little shifting helped throughout the walk, but aside from that he was used to hauling bigger creatures. He had spent hours, just as he taught Kopa hauling game, building up muscle and endurance. Swinging his head low, he ducked inside and began walking in. Nathari cautiously brought up the rear, not wanting to stumble into anything spider like. “It’s been a little bit, I won’t lie. But it should be left, left, right, left, right coming from this entrance.” 
“Why would you ever come in here?” Nathari asked. 
“Curiosity and necessity, I wondered what was in here and needed to know if there were any inherent dangers.” 
“Getting dark.” Asani commented as they walked in further. “How do you know when there’s right and left tunnels?” 
“When you can't see, you keep your tail on the left wall, and pup you keep yours on the right.” She explained. Asani dragged his tail along the left and Nathari on the right. Within the first few turns the caves grew so dark it was nearly impossible to see. “Stop.” She whispered. “And shhh.” 
“What’s going on?” Nathari whispered back. 
“Let your eyes adjust. Gotta sit here for a few minutes. Don’t make too much noise, or she’ll hear you.” Sierra advised. 
“Who?” Asani asked. 
“The brood mother.” Sierra answered deviously. “Little daddy has his pack of crawlies are usually back in the deep where you came in. Mommy stays here.”
“How does he-“ Asani asked, she interrupted and continued to explain. 
“Far up ahead is a chamber we have to pass. The ground sinks deep, very very deep. There’s most likely caverns below they use to pass under to get to each other.” She explained. Nathari shuddered hearing the story while Asani stayed concentrated on the path ahead. 
“I can see further down now.” He stated. 
“Good enough, let’s get moving. Tails to the walls boys.” She reminded them as Asani rose up and continued down the passage. Finding their first turn, Asani shifted off to the left. Sierra pat his side and giggled. “Good boy, you remember what your told.”
“Knock off that good boy shit or you can walk on your own three feet.” 
“Oh.” She moaned, tickling his ear. “Pretty boy doesn’t like my compliments? But if your good, I might let you lick my sweet little twat when we get out.” She chuckled, whispering into his ear.
“Ha-ha-ha” He softly laughed. “I wouldn’t fuck you with a stolen-“ 
“Guys.” Nathari interrupted, darting ahead a bit. “Another web.” Sierra clamped his muzzle shut and hushed him. 
“Don’t…. Breath on it.” She warned. “Last thing we need now is the swarm on our tails. Off to the left pretty boy.” Pressing down the halls Asani began to stress his own footsteps. Stealth was never his forte, but he could manage alright. However now, with the burden of Sierra’s weight he felt his heels drop faster than normal. Forced to monitor every step, he often let Nathari slip ahead as the path turned down. Passing through the next right brought them further into the deep caverns. The tunnels were growing wider now, and spiders could be heard creeping along the walls. Nathari’s skin crawled, feeling the fibers of his tail occasionally trickle over the body of a spider clamoring along the wall. 
“Easy kido.” Asani comforted, tapping his backside. “Just don’t let them get on your tail.” 
“You can take them off the walls now, especially you boy. We’re almost to her room.” Sierra cautioned. Nathari bounced his tail off the wall and rushed over to her side. 
“What!?” He breathed loudly in her ear. 
“Relax, it’s day light. She’ll be asleep, I hope.” The cavern began to shrink. The darkness of the room up ahead even brought Asani’s heart racing. Sierra tapped his side for him to stop. Getting down, she hobbled over to the entrance and crouched, peeking out the right. She sat there, staring for a good while before pulling herself back in. She nodded for them to come through and one by one, they passed the entrance. The chamber, was massive and flooded their nose with the sweet strange smell. Sierra rushed to Nathari and covered his head. 
“Shh, slowly. Look at her, and do not say a thing.” She urged. Returning her attention to Asani she tapped his side, beckoning him to lower down once more. He complied, but remained slack jawed at the sight before him. Nathari slowly turned just as she said, and saw the image before him. Though nothing more than a veil against the darkened walls the shape was distinct. A massive, monstrous spider, hanging from a web that spanned across the room. Her legs span stretched easily a hundred feet across. The web dangled over a large, deep crevice in the ground, and spiders could be heard scurrying across the room. For Nathari there could be no greater nightmare. His trembling paws barely carried him along, his body pressed against Asani as they walked. Sierra put a paw at his head, stroking him to get him to calm down. 
“Easy, kid. Look ahead.” She ever so softly whispered. Nathari turned to the far end of the ledge. Creeping along, they could see the next tunnel in sight. Each step was ever so carefully placed, not to step on any of the critters scurrying about, or to kick up a rock and risk stirring the creature. Finally it was only a few feet away. Nathari softly sighed at the sight. Approaching it, Sierra felt a chunk of web from Asani’s fur catch in her nose. Without notice, she sneezed it out, her body acting on it’s own, she immediately scolded herself. The massive shadow behind them stirred ever so slightly. It's front legs contracting.  
“Run! Now!” She screamed. As they darted for the entrance. Barely making it in, they heard the slam against the wall as the ground trembled from the impact. For being so large, her movement was so very fast, she had nearly caught them. Screeching, the voice tore through the cave and pierced their ears. Asani and Nathari stopped and howled trying to cover their ears. As the screech subsided they picked up the pace and rushed down the halls. Cutting to the tunnel to the left they hurried as fast as they could through the caverns. The clamor of legs built rapidly behind them, they pushed hard as the swarm behind them grew. “They’ll over take us if we can’t get out into the sunlight! Her swarm is reclusive, they can’t come outside.” 
“Light you say?” Asani wondered, breathing heavily. 
“Yeah, got any bright ideas?” She quickly asked. 
“Kid! Rake your claws on the wall!” Asani ordered. Nathari was baffled but complied, with a quick swipe he struck the wall; his claws gave off an ever so slight spark of light. Giving another swing along the left wall did the same, but it hurt, his claws couldn’t take more than a few more shots. 
“They’re wearing to fast!” He shouted. 
“See if you can grab a rock!” Asani suggested. Looking all about him he couldn’t see much on the ground. As they swung around there final turn, he found a decent sized one lying on the ground. Scooping it up in his mouth, he carried it for a moment. Spitting it up he caught it, letting it slip between his fingers he slammed the wall. The strike kicked up a dozens of sparks as the mound of spiders behind him fell back. Satisfied he let the rock slide from his fingers and caught up to Asani. Around the bend they came, a light at the end was visible. Finally they were going to make it. The swarm behind them fell out of sight, save for one. A large hefty spider, a fair bit bigger than a full grown lion was still on the move towards them. Nathari cringed looking to Sierra. 
“What is that?!” He exclaimed. Sierra gazed back, her mouth hanging open. 
“Oh boy. Little daddy is coming.” 
“That’s little daddy?!?!” He nearly hollered. 
“You just said.. They hate daylight.” Asani panted, exhausted from hauling her. 
“The females yes. The males apparently not.” She concluded. Bursting from the tunnel they finally found daylight within the canyon. “Stop-stop-stop!” Sierra insisted. “We’ll have to fight it, the ramps to far and you can’t let him get to the others.” Getting off of Asani she let him breath a moment, the little daddy scurried out and began to ascend the cliff wall. Turning around it watched them, sitting there like fish in a barrel waiting to be pounced on. 
“I need… to catch… my breath…. So bad…” Asani moaned. Strong as he was, this was an endurance race even he was not used to. “Nathari… gonna have to.. suck it up… take him first.” He advised, letting Sierra down.
“Darn it.” He moaned. 
“Just listen kid, see those pincers, keep em away from you. All his venom is in those fangs, if he gets one bite in you you’re going to swell up and probably die within minutes. Get a good grip on them, dig deep and rake hard with your hind legs if he gets you on your back; which he probably will. If he tries to wrap up your legs though, you gotta bite at his eyes.” 
“I gotta bite his face!?” He protested. 
“What are you a lion or a lemur!? That thing’s gonna try to kill you. Don’t pussy out!” She argued. “Shit, here he comes.” Gesturing to little daddy who was coming down the cliff now. Nathari rushed closer as it bounded down, landing nearly in front of him. Taking a good few swings he forced the spider to back off, it’s front legs raising up to avoid the blows. With a quick snap it bounced back towards him, throwing Nathari onto his back. He panicked as the creature pinned him down. Grabbing his pincers with his paws he could barely contain them.
“Kick it! Kid comon! Dig in!” Sierra cheered. Instantly he flung his hind legs up and dug in, clawing away at the creature’s torso. With a shriek it withdrew, raking his paws in the process. Nathari cried out in pain as blood started to pour from the pads of his paws. The creature stamped around in its own agony, the wounds on its belly ran deep. It darted for the cliff but Asani cut it off. 
“Oh no you don’t, panzy ass bug!” He cried leaping onto its back. “Finish what you started bitch!” he mocked. He wrestled with the creature before he dipped low, toppling Asani over and onto his back. Its fangs had a lock on his belly, but a good kick caught his face and cut deep. The spider backed off once more allowing Asani to roll away. Swiftly he rose up to square off with the creature, once again the spider tried to make its way to the cliff wall. Asani lunged onto its back as it scrambled to grip the cliff wall. Much to his surprise, he began ascending up. Though only a few feet, he found himself dangling off the spiders back. It was too hard to keep his grip. Reaching up, he dug into its eyes before being kicked off in a violent spasm. He landed hard on the ground, winded and in pain. “Little fucker.” He moaned. It landed on top of him now, pinning Asani down, it was trying to sink it’s venom into his flesh. Asani held off the pincers the best he could, coughing and feeling webbing form across his feet. Nathari tackled it from the side and tumbled with it, allowing Asani to rest up a moment and rip the sticky webbing from his feet. The creature got the better of Nathari in the tussle, once again he was on his back, facing up into its disgusting face, and dripping fangs. He tried to get a grip on the pincers, but the blood coating his paws made them slip and deepen his agony. Why me, he thought, slamming his eyes he lunged for the spiders eyes and bit hard, feeling a ball pop between his teeth and a most horrible taste fill his mouth. The creature squealed once more, bounding off of him. Nathari couldn’t stomach it anymore, the taste was too much and he threw up. Sierra grew sick of watching, she had at last decided to step in and do what she could to help. 
“Let’s go for a little ride!” She shouted, rushing the creature and leaping onto its back. She held fast as it swung around, desperate to toss her off as it squealed. “This ends now!” She screamed, raising up she slammed down and gashed open its head. Up again she came down and throttled her paw into its body with all her might. Grunting she pushed harder and harder, tearing through the innards within, until at last she punched through the head. The creature flattened out, it’s legs strewn in all directions he fell dead on the ground. Sierra huffed and puffed trying to pull her paw out. With a fling she pulled the blood and strange oozes with it, disgusted she shook it out. “Well, that does it. I’m fucked now.” She sighed. 
“What do you mean?” Asani asked, quick to join her. 
“Smell that shit?” She asked, throwing her paw to him. Asani wrinkled his nose and looked away. “Yeah, nasty isn’t it. I can wash this all I want, but big mama will smell this for a long time.” 
“How can she smell it?”
“Don’t know, but trust me, she can.” She reaffirmed. Looking up she welcomed the sight of clear sky and nodded. “Yeah, first cloudy night or new moon. She’ll be out. Cozy and cool in the dark and she’ll come for me if I stay here. Best part is, it’s all my own damn fault.” 
“The sneeze? In the cave? Are you an idiot, that’s not your fault.” Asani protested. 
“Doesn’t matter now.” She dismissed. “I gotta find a new home.” 
“Why don’t you come with us?” Nathari offered, finally rejoining them. Sierra shook her head however. 
“No, I don’t like working with others and I’m really not keen on being bred like a common lioness. Besides, the old lion doesn’t like me much.” Sierra explained. 
“I carry a lot of influence with the others. You just let me put the good word in for you. We never would have made it through without your help.” Asani stated stroking her back. Rolling his paw off of her she started walking ahead, her hind leg still not handling the weight well. Asani and Nathari watched for a moment before she stopped and hung her head. 
“People who stick with me… They end up dead. You hang around me long enough your gonna find that the hard way. Now come on, up that path there should be at some water at the top with your pride. Can get at least some of this stinking shit off my paw.” 

Sierra lead them through the canyons basin and up to the ramp leading to the plateau. Ni, Kopa and Saeska were all eagerly waiting at the very top of the ramp and were ecstatic to see them back. Ni rushed over to Asani while Kopa and Saeska wrapped up Nathari. 
“Enjoy your little detour, brother?” Ni asked with a smile. 
“Hahaha, as usual you sit on your ass while I do all the work.” He replied. 
“Glad you’re alright kido.” Kopa said warmly, patting Nathari’s back as he held him. 
“Hey.” Saeska whispered, grabbing Nathari’s paw. “What did you do?” Nathari released himself from Kopa but let his paw stay in hers. 
“We ran into a little spider problem. His pincers raked me, thankfully I didn’t get poisoned.” He informed her. She pulled on his arm, guiding him over towards the others near a small pond. Asani glanced behind, seeing Sierra struggle to reach the top of the path. Strolling down he planted himself a few feet ahead of her and laid down with a smile. 
“Comon now, you can do it.” He mockingly encouraged. Stopping she glared at him a moment before continuing to hobble up. “You’re playing that up aren’t you?” He asked. 
“What makes you say that?” She answered, passing by him. 
“You had no trouble keeping a grip on that spider, or charging him when he had the kid pinned.” Stopping again she sighed and bowed her head. 
“Yeah ok fine, maybe a little.” She confessed. Asani got up and caught her side now. 
“So why then?” With a coy little smile she met him face to face. 
“Maybe I like having a pretty boy give me a ride everywhere.” She laughed. 
“I don’t mind, so long as you return the favor.” He replied with a wink. 
“Ohh, I’m sorry.” She moaned, giving his cheek a squeeze. “But I’m afraid you don’t have the right… hmmm how should I put this… equipment?” 
“What do you mean?” He asked more assertively. 
“I’m not into boys.” She whispered, continuing on ahead. Asani huffed a hard sigh and followed, immediately heading away from her to rejoin the pride. Amri smiled and pat his head. Grateful for the affection he was however in no mood for it. Settling down near the small pond he watched as Saeska bathed Nathari’s paw. He was getting tired of watching everyone else and there affections and snapped away from the two. Hakima took note and began heading towards him. Making herself known, she settled in alongside him an pat his back briefly. 
“Something troubles you boy?” She asked softly. 
“I’m just exhausted greatmother, I’ll be fine.” He quietly answered. His face unmoving. 
“This Sierra, was she sufficient help in guiding you through?” 
“Yep, she’s held up her end. Soon we can dump her off and head to the pridelands.” Asani replied with a sigh. Hakima pondered his answer carefully. 
“Eager to get rid of her?” She asked. 
“Yep.” 
“Why?” 
“Please Hakima, I’m just tired and I really don’t feel like getting into this crap right now.” He swiftly dismissed. Hanging her head she sighed. 
“Do you remember nothing of what I told you so long ago?” She pleaded. 
“Every.. Word.” He drew out his answer. “Good night Greatmother. Thank you for the concern, it’s greatly appreciated.” Asani stated rolling onto his side to rest. She gave a soft hum, glancing away from him before rising to her feet. Leaning down she gave his cheek a kiss and whispered in his ear. 
“Good night child, rest well.” Her eyes searched for Sierra, finding her overlooking the cliff. As if on the hunt she honed in on her. Sierra remained undisturbed, watching the valley below as Hakima arrived. She swung out and gave her shoulder a tap. “Can we speak?” 
“I don’t know, do you have a tongue?” Sierra quipped. 
“Indeed, but I find better use for it then you do I’m certain.” Hakima answered, settling beside her. “Tell me, why do you remain here? Why do you choose to be alone?”
“None of your business, and my life story is not of any interest to you now is it?” She asked, tipping her head to Hakima. 
“If it wasn’t then why would I ask?” 
“You ask, simply to know. What would knowing do? Does knowing where I come from actually matter to you? Does knowing why I choose to stay here help you sleep?” She carried on. Hakima sighed as she did. 
“What is wrong with you girl? Do you not wish for anything more then what you have now? Why do you keep everyone and everything out of your heart?” She pleaded. 
“I have everything I need. Once I’m done with you, I’ll have it back again. Maybe if you ever lived on your own for a while, you’d enjoy it. But some pampered, preened and know-it-all lioness is not about to tell me how to live.” 
“You think you are cunning, yet you are so very stupid. You think yourself grand when in reality, there is only you to judge that.” Hakima interrupted. “Do not attempt to lecture me girl on matters you yourself fail to understand. You have no one to know who you are, to tell these things to. I come to you with an ear, to listen and perhaps give you some understanding and guidance. But I see this is folly.” 
“You’re right, it is.” She replied quite calm. “But let’s be clear about something here, wise one. I’m not part of your pride, your family; I’m just the hired help. What I do with my life, how I choose to live it is my business and my reasons are my own and given at my discretion. So before you start passing judgment on me, you keep just one thing in mind.” She said, turning to meet Hakima face to face. Without so much as a blink, she glared deep into her eyes, angrily. “Your family would be dead without me! So take what you get and stuff your nose anywhere you like, but in my business!” She whispered loudly. Answering her gaze a while, she stared hard into Sierra’s eyes. Hakima slowly drew a smile across her face before suddenly bursting out laughing. Sierra seemed confused, she thought she was losing her mind. Saeska and a few others gave some funny looks as well. 
“Oh dear, you foolish girl.” Hakima continued laughing. 
“What?” She asked. 
“Get out of here then. Find a cozy rock to rest upon the night, but be-gone from us.” She stated, shaking her head with a smile. 
“Ha, you aren’t clear of the canyon yet. What about the elephant graveyard? How do you plan to get through there without me?” Sierra quickly protested. 
“You paid your debt; you are free to do whatever you want. Don’t let us pampered and preened lions interfere anymore with, whatever it is you do.” She answered, shooing her away. Sierra smiled and shrugged getting up. Amri started over towards them now with concern. 
“You’re sure?” Sierra asked once more. 
“Are you deaf? Or is it now we learn you cannot speak? Go!” Hakima insisted. Sierra blew off Hakima’s attitude and darted for the ramp. Glancing back once more, she paused at Asani’s sleeping body. “Ah!” Hakima shouted, shooing her once more. “Get!” Snapping back to the ramp Sierra ran down, out and away from the pride. 
“What was the meaning of all that?” Amri demanded. Hakima just smiled, still giggling a little under her breath. 
“Did you see what she did?” 
“What?” Amri asked. 
“Have faith in me my love, I know what it is I am doing.” Hakima insisted.
“Very well, but now we do not have a guide. Our trip through this elephant graveyard will have to be a cautious one.” Amri stated, laying beside her. 
“We will be fine. Let us rest love, we have a long day ahead tomorrow.” 
“Alright, let’s get Saeska here then.” Amri agreed. Hakima swiftly grabbed his paw catching his attention before he could call. 
“She is with the boy, I believe he was hurt sometime down there. Let them be.” 
“Alright, some time alone tonight hm?” He wondered with a cheeky smile. Hakima giggled leaning into his body. They cuddled close together, warm fur and paws wrapped to settle for the night. Kopa and Keyah were huddled as usual while Saeska and Nathari laid on their backs, stargazing. Ni and Kinu lay, wrapped up like Kopa and Keyah while Asani rested alone as usual. Most nights, this did not bother him. But in any direction he looked, he saw his pride, paired off, while he was left without a warm body to hold. Tonight in particular, it bothered him, leaving him restless and with little sleep. 

With the morning’s arrival, the pride was up and about. Taking quick drinks from the pond while stretching and shaking off the previous night’s cold. The day was growing overcast, the sky ready again to empty rain on them for their journey. Asani however, struggled to keep awake. 
“Everything alright Asani?” Ni asked. 
“Fine, just didn’t sleep well.” He answered quietly, rubbing his eyes. 
“Yeah well, given the crap you had to deal with yesterday I don’t blame ya.” 
“Let’s go!” Amri called, already up at the ramp with Hakima. Walking down slowly, they resumed their trek though the canyon basin. The walls grew taller, the further they traveled, and much tighter. The ground that once spanned hundreds of feet across had shrunk to less than twenty, the further along they went, the more they noticed they were going back down hill. Around the last bend, they found the route leading underground. The caves glowed with a strange green hue, with a smell that hurt the nose at first. 
“Ugh, this must be it.” Amri announced. Kopa closed his eyes, the smell was powerful, and most familiar. Keyah nuzzled his shoulder, giving his cheek a quick kiss. 
“You ok?” She asked. 
“I’m alright.” He assured her, shaking his mane out. “Memories keep coming back in rushes like this. The smell alone, wow.” 
“Been here Kopa?” Ni wondered. 
“Yes, but not very long. Strangely enough, I was kidnapped by vultures here.” Kopa explained. 
“What’s strange about that?” 
“They wanted to sing.” He replied, questioning that himself. Asani rolled his eyes, pushing him along. 
“Ok! Let’s keep going.” He insisted. Entering inside the smell was even worse. Geysers seem to litter the ground, occasionally shooting up with an awful hissing sound. The cave grew larger as they passed through a small tunnel. A massive cliff stood before them, a ramp far off to the right lead up but the sheer size of the room was impressive. The cave spanned hundreds of feet in either direction, as if it were some brooding grounds for giants.
“So this is a graveyard? Where’s all the bodies?” Nathari asked, gazing back and forth. 
“I don’t know.” Kopa said trialing off as he looked as well. 
“Lost already?” Sierra called from behind them. She laid, paws dangling from a cave fairly high above them. 
“We’re quite fine thank you.” Hakima quickly replied. 
“What are you doing here?” Asani demanded. She passively glanced down at him then back at her paw. 
“Can’t stay in the canyon, remember? Had to give that up to save your sorry ass.” She reminded him. Ni gave Asani’s shoulder a quick pat, gesturing on. 
“Come on, just ignore her. Let’s find our way through.” 
“Agreed.” Said Amri. “We’ll need to find a way up, I’m sure. See the tunnel up there, one of them down here must connect to it. Let’s stay together and find a path leading us up.” Giving their approval they followed straight ahead towards the tunnel near the base of the cliff. Entering inside the stink grew quite strong. What was worse was the path was leading down in a spiral, growing ever hotter as they traveled. At its end was a pool of boiling water, and a smell that choked them to tears. Swinging around, they rushed back up through the passage. At last finding freedom, and semi fresh air. 
“Not keen on a bubble bath?” Sierra taunted, now resting comfortably at the ledge they were seeking. 
“How’d you get up there?” Saeska asked in astonishment. 
“My secret sweetheart. One I apparently don’t have to share with you.” She replied with a sarcastic moan. “What  a shame, no?” Amri and Hakima both scoffed her off and turned up towards another den, this one to the south west far off the left of where they came. “Ah ah ah!” Sierra shouted. “Here’s your one freebie. Do not, go down there unless of course you don’t need to breath to live.” 
“What?” Asani questioned abruptly.
“See, this place runs along something called a volcanic vent. The waters in here boil hot enough to sear the flesh from bone. Certain vents are too hot to get close to. The heat in the air would sear your lungs and kill you. That, down there is one of them.”
“Why are you helping us?” Kinu shouted back. 
“Yes, why indeed?” Hakima added. With a subtle laugh Sierra roused her hind legs and swished about. 
“What’s the fun in watching you squirm in here if you’re dead? Come on now, only five tunnels down there one of which will kill you and two with a branching path leading to the same deadly vent. Go ahead and decide, if you want I’ll stay quiet, and enjoy myself.” She elaborated. 
“Good, we could use a little less bullshit from you.” Asani retorted. Amri lead them on towards the south eastern tunnel. The trip down the passage was brief, the first indication once again it was wrong was the fact it nearly dove straight down. The room below had no exits, it was just a den. With a huff, they turned back and made their way out into the open area once more. Sierra this time was quiet as they walked across, heading towards the northern dens. Asani glanced up at her angrily. She just smiled staring straight back at him with a wink. He mouthed the words fuck you to her, to which she simply shook her head. As they turned to the north eastern passage, Ni brought them to a halt but cutting ahead and shooting a paw across Amri’s chest. 
“Wait, I got an idea. Kopa, how’s that sniffer of yours?” He asked, tapping his nose. Thinking for a moment he followed his line of thinking. 
“Catch her fresh trail.” He suggested. Ni smiled and nodded. 
“Exactly, might be hard, rock doesn’t hold a scent well.” He explained. 
“I got it.” Kopa assured him stepping ahead. Nose to the ground he swept back and forth attempting to pick up a scent. It wasn’t long before he turned to the northwest passage and fire down. The others followed eagerly as Kopa brought them to yet another fork in the road. Ni and the others halted to watch. Kopa checked the right tunnel to no avail, but the left hinted so slightly of her. Trusting his senses he followed it down. Hooking around to another hall before shifting left, into a large room filled with geysers. At the end of the room was only one passage this time. Cautiously they passed each one, careful not to let a tail or whisker catch as they bellowed periodically. Rushing up the last tunnel, Asani shoved Kopa aside and took ahead. Slowly he crept out the final passage, seeing the cliff just ahead. He was sure Sierra couldn’t be much further. Peaking out, he saw her, sitting casually upright with the same condescending smile on her face. Raising her paws, she slowly clapped, applauding his triumphant return. 
“Well done. After what, four failed attempts you get the right tunnel. But you’re welcome again by the way.” She explained as they came out one by one. 
“Welcome for what?” Asani asked. 
“Leaving enough scent for you to follow.” Asani swung his head up, bewildered as he rolled his eyes at her. 
“Fine, let me return the favor.” He replied swinging around. His penis sprung to life and fired his spray high into the air, falling in vapors on her head. “Follow that scent.” He mocked darting ahead. With a shudder she turned away and gasped, trying desperately to cover her face. 
“Ugh! You son of a bit-“ She cried out. Kinu darted in, hissing and spitting at her. 
“Touch him, and I’ll beat the ever-living shit out of you!” She threatened. Sierra gave a dirty look as Kinu passed ahead and out through the tunnel. She sat there a moment, waiting to hear the footsteps fade ahead. Scrubbing her head she growled and bounced to her feet heading down the tunnel. The pride at last was in the final chamber. Not far up ahead was the exit into the outside. Sierra had found her way up on a ledge a good dozen feet over head. Creeping along, she waited for Asani to come by, counting his paces. 
“Two can play that game pretty boy.” She whispered. Seeing him approaching she swung around, tail end high and counted aloud. “Three, two, one.” She announced, cringing her face she released a small stream from her backside. Feeling it go, she awaited the results with a smile. 
“What the fuck!?” She heard Asani shout from below. 
“Hmm, guess I pissed him off.” She chuckled to herself. Darting back down a tunnel, she traveled the paths down into the base where the others were. Her paw just touching down, she felt the ground shiver beneath. Halting  a moment, her eyes shot down, her face sunk with concern, she had felt this before. “Uh oh, that ain’t good.” 
The ground began to sliver an sunder a line running straight ahead. The pride looked down at the ground crackling below them and halted. Sierra gazed at them dumbfounded. "Get the fuck over that line!" She shouted at the top of her lungs. Leaping, Saeska, Kinu, Ni and Nathari joined the others while Sierra jumped to their side of the forming crack. The rattling in the cave grew louder, drawing her attention up as chunks of the roof began to fall. She watched carefully, leaping out of the path of the falling debris to join them. 
"What's going on?" Amri shouted. 
"I'm not sure. The vent gets unstable from time to time and the ground moves. New tunnels form, cliffs fall. that kind of thing."
"The exit!" Kopa hollered, pointing out. Rocks and rubble were forming just outside of it. rushing towards it, a large rock slammed before it, hurling debris at them while partially blocking the doorway. 
"Clear it up! Come on move it!" Amri encouraged. Everyone who could reach was snatching rocks and boulders, huffing and puffing as they pushed them off to the side. The snapping and crumbling of earth was all about them. A good shot sounded above as three rocks tumbled towards them. Sierra snapped up in time to see it, realizing Asani was right next to her in the path. 
"Shit!" She shouted, knocking Asani aside, but not far enough to spare her. The rock crashed down, striking her head. Sierra fell to the ground, bleeding, and unconcious. 
"Sierra!" Asani cried. Trying to rouse her awake. Squinting he shuddered and threw her up on his back, just in time to watch Amri and Ni clear the last of the debris. They fled out the cave, the ground outside still trembled but was thankfully more stable then inside. They rushed off away from the caves, getting a fair distance from the instability. They stopped near the base of a small hill, littered with bones to catch their breath. Hakima rushed to Asani's back to examine Sierra. She was still unconscious. She gave the wound on her head a careful look over and wiped at some of the blood softly. The cut was thankfully shallow, a glancing blow at best, but the damage was still threatening. She needed to be cleaned, and kept somewhere stable to recover. 
"How is she?" Asani asked urgently. 
"It's not immediately threatening, but wounds on the head like this require rest. Shaking her about, running around is not good. She needs to be stabilized, and kept awake when she does wake up." Hakima explained. 
"A concussion." Amri concluded. 
"More than likely, yes." Hakima agreed. Turning back to Sierra, she saw her eyes opening slowly, blinking over and over. "Girl, girl are you there? Speak your name?" Hakima pleaded. 
"Who... what.. i don't know." She trailed off. 
"Listen girl, we are going to get you help. You have been hurt, you need to stay awake, and focus on me, do you understand." Hakima explained. 
"Ok." Sierra whispered. Amri lead on, pacing his way carefully up the hill. Kicking a few bones aside, Asani turned back to Ni. 
"Found your graveyard part i guess." 
"Yeah so it would seem." Ni agreed. "This place seems contaminated by that, "Volcanic vent" Sierra mentioned. How does she know all of this?" He pondered aloud. Asani gave his usual shrug and looked back towards the hill top. 
"Dunno, hopefully her head isn't to fucked up and we can find out." He answered. Cresting the hilltop, the area below was disgusting. The ground, cracked and barren was littered with the bones of long dead elephants and other animals. But across the wreckage of wildlife, green grass and verdant trees were visible. Along with a sight Kopa had not laid eyes upon in years. Just past the savannah, shrouded slightly by the trees near it's basin, his old home stood strong. At long last, he laid eyes upon Pride Rock. 
"That's it, isn't it kido?" Amri asked as Kopa rushed to join him. 
"Yeah, that's it." He agreed. Though no new memories emerged, he recalled the many times he traveled to and from his old home. He was eager to escape this barren wasteland and feel the cool grass beneath his feet. Dipping low once more, they followed down and back up a fairly steep hill. Once over, they had made it to their destination. Kopa carefully placed his feet back on the soft soil and tickling grass of the Pridelands. 
"How does it feel?" Amri questioned once more. Kopa's head turned slowly, soaking in all the missing pieces of his home in his mind. He didn't answer, his jaw remain slacked at the sight. 
"This is where you came from, huh love?" Keyah asked. 
"I'm really here." He whispered quietly. "It's like, walking in a dream." Hakima placed a paw on his back, snaring his attention. 
"Kopa, there is time to appreciate the beauty of this place later. The girl needs attention, and if this shaman is still here perhaps he can offer the aid she needs." She insisted. 
"Awful eager to help this rogue, aren't you?" Kinu thought aloud. 
"Without her aid, Asani and Nathari would be dead. Though her attitude is distasteful, I can think of another who shared similar behaviors in their youth." She explained, glancing to Asani with a smile. 
"Well, let's not waste time then." Amri nodded. "Let's arrange an audience with this king Simba, and reunite a father with his son. You ready Kopa?" Smiling he nodded with a deep breath. 
"Nervous, and a little anxious but yeah, let's go." Ni gave his shoulder a quick swat. 
"Come on, let's book it to Pride Rock then!" He challenged happily. 
"Yeah!" Kopa cheered aloud as the two lead the way, back to Pride Rock.