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It was another fine day, clear and bright. The dry season near the half end and it left the air hot and heavy even in mid-morning. But it was the first in a long while when they felt comfortable in taking a walk at such time. So they had.

Kiara was once more walking with Kovu that morning along a familiar track. But this time the air around them was far less calm and the pair were not as intimate as they’d like to be. They had reason to.

It’s been three weeks sense the attack on the border. They could see a good half mile off the remnants of it, the black scar left from the fire. It was ugly, chilling sight and it made it hard to relax for it. Simba, Sarabi and a flock of Zazu’s bird volunteers had done some investigation into ashen zone a few days after the fire gone out. It was unpleasant but outside the kick’s ups of ash, they found nothing amiss. Simba spoke of already seeing sprouts coming through the ashen layer. Some trees need only be pushed down and allowed to rot for insects to make use of them. The streams were still running clean near them. It seemed there was far less damage than expected. After consulting with Rafiki Simba announced that come next raining season it be on its way to recovery. And within another two years likely be ready for greater grazing and living by bigger creatures. It only needed time they spoke, and all believed. It was much needed good news for pride and people.

Still the other threat of the fire was not so easily forgotten. As promised Captain Ifetoya had stepped up security massively. The guards were expected to be either resting, training, or patrolling, none allowed idol time now. They complained of course but this was war, he spoke, and though no battle had broken out they knew it true. The boundaries were walked three times daily, and three times nightly, often with bird volunteers the only relief for the lions. The boundaries now heavily marked by the trackways made by the guard along with their scents. In fact, the trails were well worn into them any could see them. They missed their families who they only got to see in moments at bed or after. But all knew it was better to miss a few weeks of interactions then to lose their families to the enemies. Or so Ifetoya reminded for he had lived through such and Kovu asserted his correct assessment. That seemed to help only some.

The citizens were also on alert and changed routine. Zazu’s small armada of birds were kept busy, keeping look out for herds and pridemates who went about daily business with quiet words and skittering eyes. A rule was instated form Simba for pride and beast to walk accompanied with three in a group was put into place until this matter was resolved. The birds Zazu recruited often filling in for a third member as not all animals lived in herds or groups, able to act as another eyes and voice. One that could zip away unhindered and report in when something went amiss while the lion or beast handled the presumed enemy. The birds were offered rewards of course. For a smaller birds, breaking open logs or moving stones for bugs and offering up bits of loose fur for their nests, this was the small price until Spring rains came. For the larger birds especially the raptors and other predatory birds, that was not enough. The pride agreed to samples of their meals or first pick of recently dead, a worthy trade. And in Spring, the royals promised that they make a small feast for them in prey to pay off the dept of their service. It wasn’t as immediately satisfying but they had been modest and reasonable. Jubilant even to serve. The bargain was set and agreed, been in place sense three weeks prior.

In that time the birds were nearly as ragged preforming sentry duty as the lions. Organized by Zazu with Sarabi’s aid, they were assigned to herds, pridemates and animals, with post changes for rest. Everybody been tense getting use to this new system and the restrictions it placed. Especially when the dry was not when moods were at their best even in good times. But as long days turned to long weeks of nothing to report, tensions eased. Most had become relieved by the birds, their presence saying they were guarded and safe. Relaxing more and more as days went by without activity.

So most were happy to have this aerial watcher follow them anywhere they went. But not for the walking pair.

Kovu and Kiara’s third-party member was as expected Zazu, Simba would expect no other bird for the task. And she was not happy, feeling like a cub once more. Kiara had for the most part been restricted to Priderock, helping organize and oversee matters from her post while keeping her at a safe, removed location should the enemy strike. But she found herself either stressed form watching and waiting. Or keeping up with reports and responding accordingly. Or board out of wits end to the same bit of land without any outlet. It was the first time in weeks she been out. The first time in weeks she could more comfortably interact with Kovu one on one. For Kovu, after all, was working hard to help with guard duty and the royals to offer his skills against the outlanders. With little time with her. But still Zazu hovering nearby was too distracting for her to give in and enjoy him here with her. She longed for the easy quiet life they once had. But as all her family reminded her that was not to be for a royal in times of strife like this. Which made her hate it all the more.

And why she needed to use this time wisely with him.

“There’s still no word from Smoke Veil?” she asked, knowing it was one of the few topics that hadn’t been gone over repeatedly. The subject of their silent allies up north only brought up now and again. For matters on the Homefront was more pressing. Kovu seemed happy for the topic, for they had walked in silence wishing not to share anything intimate in front of the birds. Yet also worried, the lines under his eyes showing how tired he was.

“No, this is the fifth scouts sent sense the fire. The first were the two quick lionesses and they were nearly captured by the Outlanders who seem set on keeping guards along the Northern border. We sent the second group with some of our guards but got beaten back. It’s much too fortified and we have to send more of the pride and guard to break through.”

“Why don’t we?” Kiara asked honestly and he shook his head.

“Leave too many places open. While we break through and get a scout or two, they would send word two their forces and force through into our lands and then we have our forces divided between multiple places of battle.” His brow knitted in deep worry. “That would be the worst for us.”

She looked confused and he elaborated. “We have no clue of her forces, it’s clear she added, and we have no inkling to how many and who. Sure, there are the core outlanders, but it could be a couple to dozens, and we have no clue. Meanwhile Zira can make a fairly good estimate of our forces. Between what I reported when I came to be with you in the Pridelands. And those captured lionesses, well likely a handful were forced into telling numbers of Whistling Creek and Grassy Peaks members, they could have scouted and found out who were dead, captured and part of our forces. From there they can figure out numbers.”

He stopped and looked do the sky were Zazu quietly circled. “That why getting to Smoke veil was so important. Their numbers are unknown, by us or the enemies, Thank Spirit. But its why getting to them is so important. Their numbers will turn the tide. Especially as they now have to not only aid one ally but avenge two fallen ones. Not only that but they know the threat that rest in the concurred lands near them. It’s in bets interest to get them out.”

Kiara perked, understanding, and feeling a bit hopeful. That an end was near, and conclusion would be reached. She had known its importance but until now had only thought they had been keeping up with an ally. Which only made her feel embarrassed to not make the connection sooner. But she persisted on.

“Great. So you’ve sent word through birds, yes?” she added, trying to make herself feel smart in getting back to the question form earlier.”

“Yes. Er attempted three times. The first time we sent some swifts up north, but they were ambushed by some raptors over the borders. We sent another group with a few raptor guards, but they encountered some crows, mobbed, and killed them all the small ones save the raptors. Though their wounds were bad. They recovered but we knew we couldn’t volunteer any other birds who couldn’t adequately defend themselves. Most were too frightened to volunteer after that.

The silence was pregnant after. Her eyes were pinned, and she glanced nervously about unsure as his eyes showed the seriousness of the moment. She glanced back and up at the circling bird above, but Kovu caught on.

“We can’t rick losing him. He’s too invaluable and has almost no means of defense.” Then he chuckled. “Though it might make this walk more enjoyable without him here.”

She smiled at the joke, knowing he didn’t mean it. She may find him annoying, even now, but he had shown his value through this distressing time. She now understood his pretentious attitude was not some empty matter, he EARNED his title and rank. So though she agreed she’s decided not to mock him much further in case he was listening.

“As for the fifth.” Kovu continued as they continued their walk. “We sent the raptors through but strangely the Smoke veil were hesitant. Seemed resolved to not follow through. Were uncertain. The message was vague and honestly, we’re wondering if they delivered it wrong, received the wrong message or both.” Here he leaned in and whispered in case Zazu overheard. “They may be useful for their wings, but we all know birds can be lacking in the brains at times.”

She smiled and nodded, again reminded of a certain majordomo. Or more appropriately the stories of Nala and Simba in their youth giving him the slip. And Even Kiara fooling him at times when she snuck off with Kovu. So yes, even the most reliable had weaknesses, in mind as well as body.

“What then?’ she asked. He thought on that, sighing deeply.

“we’re thinking. Honestly trying to hold out until near rainy season. Should be able to sneak a proper scout through then. until that point the raptors can get some pointers form Zazu and Sarabi and try again. We’ll keep pressing. They didn’t say no after all. Just seem hesitant. It’s a waiting game at this point.”

He didn’t say it but she since it as the shudder went down her spine. Wait and hope that Zira didn’t do something more. And if so, they could handle it. Frankly she didn’t know how much more waiting they could have. But that would wait as their walk came near an end.

They were not on simple trek to lands not walked in a while, there was purpose like with everything these days. They were to meet the royals down south for a meeting. They could see her parents, King Simba, and Queen Nala, resting on rock ledge under some shade to an adjoining stone provided. Ifetoya would not come for he must mind the guard or risk some loosening in posts that could be devastating if not tended. Thus, his son was there in his place. Sarabi was too old and infirm to come, but Zazu would tell her all afterword. Kiara felt her own frustration and resistance to come. She had been part of one too many meetings and discussions, especially as they seemed to go nowhere. And somewhat seemed useless. The pride and people seemed doing well, the land would recover, the borders guarded and no sign form Zira or her ilk in the lands for weeks. All were relaxed. Save the royals.

With that all tended, they had been trying to get somewhere with the matter of Zira but in truth they hadn’t. They had hoped she launch another attack and could then counter it. They had readied for that. But this endless waiting what not expected for Kovu assumed she be hastier. That her mania would lead her to be less patient, for it was not as if she knew what was happening on the other sides of the boundaries. But no, she and her pride had done nothing. Save prevent movement in the north but no doubt they were also hunting up there, so it was expected to be protected. Otherwise, she was quiet and absent, and it drove the royals in continued frustrations.

They thought of attacking but there was no clear how many of the outlanders there were. Especially as they clearly recruited rogues and captured lions. They could be walking into a bloodbath with no intel and a pride so depraved they scared their own features. No, even with want to end this and seek justice, they wouldn’t do that yet.

They couldn’t spy for any lion or beast of land would be captured instantly as Kovu put it, and killed, if not tortured. And the birds were frighted, for if they could wield fire who knows what else they could do. Not to mention many were spooked after the messengers’ attempts ended in blood failure. The banks and river were swarming with crocs and any water beast would struggle in that dry baking land. So, no beast of land, water or air would risk it.

And they couldn’t get reinforcements as already discussed with Kovu. Smoke veil was the only willing lion pride they knew. Grass Walls, Rafiki’s home troop, avoided getting involved unless it was dire. As in it would be cataclysmic for many prides and animals and lands going forward. And this only included a few for now and was not that bad. And they couldn’t; risk reaching out to unknown prides, either as Zira might set her eyes on and capture them or they might opt to join her. The Pridelands were a favored land, one many prides love to have. They may be willing enough to side with the more malicious group if getting access.

So they were at impasse, waiting as Kovu said. But it didn’t stop them from trying to find some solution. So they argued and swore and circled the same problem repeatedly with no end in sight. It was disheartening and exhausting for Kiara, and she couldn’t stand it. Especially the stress it caused her family. She could see them breaking and knew if it filtered to the rest of the pride and people it could erupt into disagreement and panic. And she felt the same tired fear grip her. She wished it end, that it be over.

“That Zira would launch her attack already instead of keeping us waiting. I can’t stand this not knowing anymore.” It was a cursed thought, but Kiara felt it to her marrow. The waiting was worse than the act in her opinion. Better than this arguing over nothing occurring.

“But there is hope.” She thought. The raining season was a little more than a month away. When the rains fell, they go for weeks with few breaks. Any fires would be useless. A lion messenger could travel through storm without being spotted. Any bird could too for few flew in such weather. The pride could hold up in Priderock for Zira couldn’t risk a whole army invasion. Not into foreign land without dealing with hazards of limited sight and smell along with biting cold taking its toll on her numbers. And there would be prosperity, more to eat and drink which meant risks could be greater. Their allies may be included to take such risks in better season. They need only, wait for the rains. And then, they could motivate their allies to aid and end Zira’s pride. For good. This was the only reasonable plan, even as they spun their minds mad thinking of something else in the meantime. So, they could only wait.

“Still didn’t make it any easier.” She thought.

Thus, Kiara listened as reports were made between all factions. On the land and animals. Of reports of again Zira being not in sight and the assertion from Rafiki the rains would come on time. That the guard was fine and fit and tired of the constant schedule of train, patrol, and rest. That their allies still refused to act or respond much. All still a standstill and again the royals trying to push for something else. She settled down to lying position leaning into Kovu and trying not to fall asleep. For what she assumed would be a long, boring meeting.

Until something did happen unexpected and startled her awake. Something that had all attention and drew them to silence, to listen. Peering about at the growing sound and distant shouts. And noted how only one seemed to have some reaction beyond shock and confusion. Fear and recognition shone in his eyes. Simba had leapt away and up from the shaded area to stone above. He looked out and Kovu had followed along while Abioye waited quietly guarding queen and princess. They waited looking up at Simba and the growing noise, a rumble that was being felt in the paws even now. Causing small stones to jump about and dust to fall from the rock above. They all saw that Simba first reacted in terrible alarm and silently her fur rose in fur all along his frame. But Kovu reacted first, rushing down and fear in his eyes ordered them.

“Run, it’s a stampede! And it heads this way!”
_________________

A small time skip and it doesn't look good in more ways then one.

All things related to TLK © Disney
Idea and story © Me
Please do not use in any way, shape or form without proper consent from me and without using proper referencing.
Feel free to politely point out grammatical/spelling errors that you catch in the story, such comments are welcome for me to keep improving.
Thank you.

Description
First Part | Previous Part | Next Part >
______________

It was another fine day, clear and bright. The dry season near the half end and it left the air hot and heavy even in mid-morning. But it was the first in a long while when they felt comfortable in taking a walk at such time. So they had.

Kiara was once more walking with Kovu that morning along a familiar track. But this time the air around them was far less calm and the pair were not as intimate as they’d like to be. They had reason to.

It’s been three weeks sense the attack on the border. They could see a good half mile off the remnants of it, the black scar left from the fire. It was ugly, chilling sight and it made it hard to relax for it. Simba, Sarabi and a flock of Zazu’s bird volunteers had done some investigation into ashen zone a few days after the fire gone out. It was unpleasant but outside the kick’s ups of ash, they found nothing amiss. Simba spoke of already seeing sprouts coming through the ashen layer. Some trees need only be pushed down and allowed to rot for insects to make use of them. The streams were still running clean near them. It seemed there was far less damage than expected. After consulting with Rafiki Simba announced that come next raining season it be on its way to recovery. And within another two years likely be ready for greater grazing and living by bigger creatures. It only needed time they spoke, and all believed. It was much needed good news for pride and people.

Still the other threat of the fire was not so easily forgotten. As promised Captain Ifetoya had stepped up security massively. The guards were expected to be either resting, training, or patrolling, none allowed idol time now. They complained of course but this was war, he spoke, and though no battle had broken out they knew it true. The boundaries were walked three times daily, and three times nightly, often with bird volunteers the only relief for the lions. The boundaries now heavily marked by the trackways made by the guard along with their scents. In fact, the trails were well worn into them any could see them. They missed their families who they only got to see in moments at bed or after. But all knew it was better to miss a few weeks of interactions then to lose their families to the enemies. Or so Ifetoya reminded for he had lived through such and Kovu asserted his correct assessment. That seemed to help only some.

The citizens were also on alert and changed routine. Zazu’s small armada of birds were kept busy, keeping look out for herds and pridemates who went about daily business with quiet words and skittering eyes. A rule was instated form Simba for pride and beast to walk accompanied with three in a group was put into place until this matter was resolved. The birds Zazu recruited often filling in for a third member as not all animals lived in herds or groups, able to act as another eyes and voice. One that could zip away unhindered and report in when something went amiss while the lion or beast handled the presumed enemy. The birds were offered rewards of course. For a smaller birds, breaking open logs or moving stones for bugs and offering up bits of loose fur for their nests, this was the small price until Spring rains came. For the larger birds especially the raptors and other predatory birds, that was not enough. The pride agreed to samples of their meals or first pick of recently dead, a worthy trade. And in Spring, the royals promised that they make a small feast for them in prey to pay off the dept of their service. It wasn’t as immediately satisfying but they had been modest and reasonable. Jubilant even to serve. The bargain was set and agreed, been in place sense three weeks prior.

In that time the birds were nearly as ragged preforming sentry duty as the lions. Organized by Zazu with Sarabi’s aid, they were assigned to herds, pridemates and animals, with post changes for rest. Everybody been tense getting use to this new system and the restrictions it placed. Especially when the dry was not when moods were at their best even in good times. But as long days turned to long weeks of nothing to report, tensions eased. Most had become relieved by the birds, their presence saying they were guarded and safe. Relaxing more and more as days went by without activity.

So most were happy to have this aerial watcher follow them anywhere they went. But not for the walking pair.

Kovu and Kiara’s third-party member was as expected Zazu, Simba would expect no other bird for the task. And she was not happy, feeling like a cub once more. Kiara had for the most part been restricted to Priderock, helping organize and oversee matters from her post while keeping her at a safe, removed location should the enemy strike. But she found herself either stressed form watching and waiting. Or keeping up with reports and responding accordingly. Or board out of wits end to the same bit of land without any outlet. It was the first time in weeks she been out. The first time in weeks she could more comfortably interact with Kovu one on one. For Kovu, after all, was working hard to help with guard duty and the royals to offer his skills against the outlanders. With little time with her. But still Zazu hovering nearby was too distracting for her to give in and enjoy him here with her. She longed for the easy quiet life they once had. But as all her family reminded her that was not to be for a royal in times of strife like this. Which made her hate it all the more.

And why she needed to use this time wisely with him.

“There’s still no word from Smoke Veil?” she asked, knowing it was one of the few topics that hadn’t been gone over repeatedly. The subject of their silent allies up north only brought up now and again. For matters on the Homefront was more pressing. Kovu seemed happy for the topic, for they had walked in silence wishing not to share anything intimate in front of the birds. Yet also worried, the lines under his eyes showing how tired he was.

“No, this is the fifth scouts sent sense the fire. The first were the two quick lionesses and they were nearly captured by the Outlanders who seem set on keeping guards along the Northern border. We sent the second group with some of our guards but got beaten back. It’s much too fortified and we have to send more of the pride and guard to break through.”

“Why don’t we?” Kiara asked honestly and he shook his head.

“Leave too many places open. While we break through and get a scout or two, they would send word two their forces and force through into our lands and then we have our forces divided between multiple places of battle.” His brow knitted in deep worry. “That would be the worst for us.”

She looked confused and he elaborated. “We have no clue of her forces, it’s clear she added, and we have no inkling to how many and who. Sure, there are the core outlanders, but it could be a couple to dozens, and we have no clue. Meanwhile Zira can make a fairly good estimate of our forces. Between what I reported when I came to be with you in the Pridelands. And those captured lionesses, well likely a handful were forced into telling numbers of Whistling Creek and Grassy Peaks members, they could have scouted and found out who were dead, captured and part of our forces. From there they can figure out numbers.”

He stopped and looked do the sky were Zazu quietly circled. “That why getting to Smoke veil was so important. Their numbers are unknown, by us or the enemies, Thank Spirit. But its why getting to them is so important. Their numbers will turn the tide. Especially as they now have to not only aid one ally but avenge two fallen ones. Not only that but they know the threat that rest in the concurred lands near them. It’s in bets interest to get them out.”

Kiara perked, understanding, and feeling a bit hopeful. That an end was near, and conclusion would be reached. She had known its importance but until now had only thought they had been keeping up with an ally. Which only made her feel embarrassed to not make the connection sooner. But she persisted on.

“Great. So you’ve sent word through birds, yes?” she added, trying to make herself feel smart in getting back to the question form earlier.”

“Yes. Er attempted three times. The first time we sent some swifts up north, but they were ambushed by some raptors over the borders. We sent another group with a few raptor guards, but they encountered some crows, mobbed, and killed them all the small ones save the raptors. Though their wounds were bad. They recovered but we knew we couldn’t volunteer any other birds who couldn’t adequately defend themselves. Most were too frightened to volunteer after that.

The silence was pregnant after. Her eyes were pinned, and she glanced nervously about unsure as his eyes showed the seriousness of the moment. She glanced back and up at the circling bird above, but Kovu caught on.

“We can’t rick losing him. He’s too invaluable and has almost no means of defense.” Then he chuckled. “Though it might make this walk more enjoyable without him here.”

She smiled at the joke, knowing he didn’t mean it. She may find him annoying, even now, but he had shown his value through this distressing time. She now understood his pretentious attitude was not some empty matter, he EARNED his title and rank. So though she agreed she’s decided not to mock him much further in case he was listening.

“As for the fifth.” Kovu continued as they continued their walk. “We sent the raptors through but strangely the Smoke veil were hesitant. Seemed resolved to not follow through. Were uncertain. The message was vague and honestly, we’re wondering if they delivered it wrong, received the wrong message or both.” Here he leaned in and whispered in case Zazu overheard. “They may be useful for their wings, but we all know birds can be lacking in the brains at times.”

She smiled and nodded, again reminded of a certain majordomo. Or more appropriately the stories of Nala and Simba in their youth giving him the slip. And Even Kiara fooling him at times when she snuck off with Kovu. So yes, even the most reliable had weaknesses, in mind as well as body.

“What then?’ she asked. He thought on that, sighing deeply.

“we’re thinking. Honestly trying to hold out until near rainy season. Should be able to sneak a proper scout through then. until that point the raptors can get some pointers form Zazu and Sarabi and try again. We’ll keep pressing. They didn’t say no after all. Just seem hesitant. It’s a waiting game at this point.”

He didn’t say it but she since it as the shudder went down her spine. Wait and hope that Zira didn’t do something more. And if so, they could handle it. Frankly she didn’t know how much more waiting they could have. But that would wait as their walk came near an end.

They were not on simple trek to lands not walked in a while, there was purpose like with everything these days. They were to meet the royals down south for a meeting. They could see her parents, King Simba, and Queen Nala, resting on rock ledge under some shade to an adjoining stone provided. Ifetoya would not come for he must mind the guard or risk some loosening in posts that could be devastating if not tended. Thus, his son was there in his place. Sarabi was too old and infirm to come, but Zazu would tell her all afterword. Kiara felt her own frustration and resistance to come. She had been part of one too many meetings and discussions, especially as they seemed to go nowhere. And somewhat seemed useless. The pride and people seemed doing well, the land would recover, the borders guarded and no sign form Zira or her ilk in the lands for weeks. All were relaxed. Save the royals.

With that all tended, they had been trying to get somewhere with the matter of Zira but in truth they hadn’t. They had hoped she launch another attack and could then counter it. They had readied for that. But this endless waiting what not expected for Kovu assumed she be hastier. That her mania would lead her to be less patient, for it was not as if she knew what was happening on the other sides of the boundaries. But no, she and her pride had done nothing. Save prevent movement in the north but no doubt they were also hunting up there, so it was expected to be protected. Otherwise, she was quiet and absent, and it drove the royals in continued frustrations.

They thought of attacking but there was no clear how many of the outlanders there were. Especially as they clearly recruited rogues and captured lions. They could be walking into a bloodbath with no intel and a pride so depraved they scared their own features. No, even with want to end this and seek justice, they wouldn’t do that yet.

They couldn’t spy for any lion or beast of land would be captured instantly as Kovu put it, and killed, if not tortured. And the birds were frighted, for if they could wield fire who knows what else they could do. Not to mention many were spooked after the messengers’ attempts ended in blood failure. The banks and river were swarming with crocs and any water beast would struggle in that dry baking land. So, no beast of land, water or air would risk it.

And they couldn’t get reinforcements as already discussed with Kovu. Smoke veil was the only willing lion pride they knew. Grass Walls, Rafiki’s home troop, avoided getting involved unless it was dire. As in it would be cataclysmic for many prides and animals and lands going forward. And this only included a few for now and was not that bad. And they couldn’t; risk reaching out to unknown prides, either as Zira might set her eyes on and capture them or they might opt to join her. The Pridelands were a favored land, one many prides love to have. They may be willing enough to side with the more malicious group if getting access.

So they were at impasse, waiting as Kovu said. But it didn’t stop them from trying to find some solution. So they argued and swore and circled the same problem repeatedly with no end in sight. It was disheartening and exhausting for Kiara, and she couldn’t stand it. Especially the stress it caused her family. She could see them breaking and knew if it filtered to the rest of the pride and people it could erupt into disagreement and panic. And she felt the same tired fear grip her. She wished it end, that it be over.

“That Zira would launch her attack already instead of keeping us waiting. I can’t stand this not knowing anymore.” It was a cursed thought, but Kiara felt it to her marrow. The waiting was worse than the act in her opinion. Better than this arguing over nothing occurring.

“But there is hope.” She thought. The raining season was a little more than a month away. When the rains fell, they go for weeks with few breaks. Any fires would be useless. A lion messenger could travel through storm without being spotted. Any bird could too for few flew in such weather. The pride could hold up in Priderock for Zira couldn’t risk a whole army invasion. Not into foreign land without dealing with hazards of limited sight and smell along with biting cold taking its toll on her numbers. And there would be prosperity, more to eat and drink which meant risks could be greater. Their allies may be included to take such risks in better season. They need only, wait for the rains. And then, they could motivate their allies to aid and end Zira’s pride. For good. This was the only reasonable plan, even as they spun their minds mad thinking of something else in the meantime. So, they could only wait.

“Still didn’t make it any easier.” She thought.

Thus, Kiara listened as reports were made between all factions. On the land and animals. Of reports of again Zira being not in sight and the assertion from Rafiki the rains would come on time. That the guard was fine and fit and tired of the constant schedule of train, patrol, and rest. That their allies still refused to act or respond much. All still a standstill and again the royals trying to push for something else. She settled down to lying position leaning into Kovu and trying not to fall asleep. For what she assumed would be a long, boring meeting.

Until something did happen unexpected and startled her awake. Something that had all attention and drew them to silence, to listen. Peering about at the growing sound and distant shouts. And noted how only one seemed to have some reaction beyond shock and confusion. Fear and recognition shone in his eyes. Simba had leapt away and up from the shaded area to stone above. He looked out and Kovu had followed along while Abioye waited quietly guarding queen and princess. They waited looking up at Simba and the growing noise, a rumble that was being felt in the paws even now. Causing small stones to jump about and dust to fall from the rock above. They all saw that Simba first reacted in terrible alarm and silently her fur rose in fur all along his frame. But Kovu reacted first, rushing down and fear in his eyes ordered them.

“Run, it’s a stampede! And it heads this way!”
_________________

A small time skip and it doesn't look good in more ways then one.

All things related to TLK © Disney
Idea and story © Me
Please do not use in any way, shape or form without proper consent from me and without using proper referencing.
Feel free to politely point out grammatical/spelling errors that you catch in the story, such comments are welcome for me to keep improving.
Thank you.