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The Adventures of Rune and Rukio
Book 2:

Prologue:

It was nightfall in the forest. The threat of a storm drew near. The stars were slowly being covered by dark rain clouds. The winds grew heavier with the storm’s approach. The trees swayed from side to side, and leaves flew everywhere. Even the river’s current got stronger. The first crash of thunder echoed through the forest. Soon after that, rain began to fall.
In the cave across the river, the sounds of the thunder echoed even louder. It awoke a large lion sleeping a few feet from the cave’s entrance. His ears perked at the sounds of thunder, and he lifted his head. He pointed his ears toward the entrance, as if listening to the storm outside.
“Maira!” He shouted, “Get over here, I need a favor.”
In the far end of the cave, a young lion cub got up, and walked up to him. As she got closer to the entrance, she became more visible. Her coat was sleek golden brown, and her eyes were pearl black. Even the tips of her ears were black.
“What is it, Claw?” She asked.
“This storm is keeping me awake, and now I’m hungry.” Claw replied. “fetch me something to eat, like a gazelle, or a warthog.”
“But Claw,” Maira protested, “ The storm is really bad, none of the animals will be out now! There’s barely any prey around here as it is!”
“Then go to Panja’s forest and hunt.” Claw replied. “Its across the river. There’s plenty of prey there.” Before she can respond, another voice sounded in the background, “But hunting there is not allowed.” The shadow from behind came closer to Claw and Maira, he was a black pather, with a sleek coat.
“Nonsense, Shaka” Claw replied, “Its okay if she doesn’t get caught,” after his response, they both chuckled. Maira looked out of the cave, then back at Claw.
“I’m not going to hunt there if I’m not allowed to.” She said, calmly.
“You will follow orders,” Claw retorted, “ Or you will suffer the consequences! Go out and get me food!” Maira flinched, then looked away, “No,” she answered calmly. “I’m not doing it, Claw.” Claw growled and stood up, as Maira turned to see him, Claw whipped his claws at her, sending her straight for the ground. Blood began trickling down the side of her face. She laid there in fear of what he may do next. She was speechless.
“No one disobeys me and gets away with it,” Claw growled, “Now you will pay!”
Maira looked up, though her vision was slightly blurred from the shock of attack, she saw him approaching slowly toward her. She kept predicting his next move, she knew that if she didn’t do something, she was going to be killed.
At that moment as Claw closed in, Shaka began to approach from another side. There was only one way out, Maira leaped up and ran through a small gap between Claw and Shaka and made her way to the exit. The blind lion twisted his paw in her direction. Shaka turned and ran to the exit to try to catch up with her, then Claw followed.
Maira ran in the pouring rain, she cried for help, but no one was around in this storm. Claw and Shaka were right on her tail. Up ahead was deep gorge, on the bottom was the river. The heavy rains caused the river to rise, with the river flowing only several feet from the surface of the gorge.  Maira turned and ran along side the gorge looking for a across the river. Then suddenly, she slipped on mud and fell to the ground, and as she tried to get back up, Shaka caught her. He sank his teeth into her shoulder blade, and blood started to drip. Claw slowly approached them. He growled furiously toward her. Shaka let her loose, then Claw bit down on her back. Maira screamed frantically in pain. Claw tightened his grip, nearly crushing her bones, then finally, he slightly loosened his grip. He lifted her up and flung her over the side of the gorge. The current carried her body fast, and she tried to swim against it but it was no use. The river took her away. Claw and Shaka watched and chuckled in amusement  as she was swept away with the river, Maira was now out of their sight.

Chapter 1

The sun started to rise. The rays of light glimmered over the wet forest trees. Even the castle glowed brightly against the blue sky behind it. Rune was standing at the entrance of the castle. He took a deep breath and looked around, cheerfully. Its been two weeks since Rune returned home after his adventures with the humans and then learning of the devastation that happened while he was gone. Rune was happier than ever to be home. He was the new king of the jungle, along with his sister Rukio who was queen. Kimba and Raiya, their parents died while Rune was gone, leaving Rukio to look after the jungle. Now Rune is home to share the responsibility.
Rune turned and peeked inside and saw that Rukio was still asleep. He then left and headed into the jungle. He ran happily in the woods, flooded with excitement. He looked up and saw monkeys in the trees grooming each other and birds singing. He ran straight for the meadow. All the animals are out, grazing in the fields. He ran through field, checking on everything. He came up to a crowed of antelope who were relaxing in the tall grass. “Good morning,” Rune busted out, “how are you today?”
“Good morning Rune” The first antelope answered, “We’re fine thank you.”
Rune smiled and took off again.
The sun rose high, and Rune headed back for home to see if his sister was awake yet. He came out through the trees and paced up to the steps of his home. He saw to the side of the steps, Keruji was laying against the wall grooming himself.
“Hey Keru,” Rune said, “What brings you here so early?”
“I just came here for some peace and quiet,” Keruji answered, “you wont get any of that at my place.” Keruji went back to grooming himself. Rune smiled, and ran back up the stairs. Inside, Rukio was laying down with Toni and Mandy standing in front of her, talking. Rune walked up to them, gave his greetings and laid down next Rukio.
“Hey Rune,” Rukio said, “We were just talking about last night’s storm.”
“Yeah,” Toni added, “The river overflowed in some parts of the jungle, floods everywhere!”
“Yes, but nothing too serious,” Mandy replied, “we’ll be fine.”
“What about Coco,” Rukio asked, “Where is he? He still needs to give his report on the storm.”
“I haven’t seen Coco all morning,” Rune replied, “I’m sure he’s on his way.”
“Can I come in?” Keruji entered in front, without waiting for an answer he made his way to the small group and sat next to Rukio.
“Hey Keruji,” Rukio greeted him, “We were just talking about the storm last night.”
“Yeah, I remember,” Keruji replied, “A whole bunch of animals came up the mountain thinking the flood was going to hit them and it never did.” Several moments later, Coco flew in the entrance. “Rune,” Coco called out, “Sorry I’m late, I was talking with some of the birds that are migrating and they reported by the river that borders our jungle with Skull Rock Forest that they saw some lions fighting by the gorge!”
“Really,” Rune asked, “On our side?”
“No,” Coco replied, “Apparently this happened on the other side.”
“Then its none of your business.” Keruji retorted. His tone was more sarcastic than hostile. Rukio looked at Keruji then turned to Rune, “I guess he’s right, Rune,” Rukio responded, “If it didn’t happen on our side then we probably shouldn’t stick our noses in it.” Rune’s interest and curiosity turned to disappointment. He got up and walked to the entrance and looked around.
“Still, we should head to the river and check our borders,” Rune said, “better to be safe than sorry.”
“Yeah, plus we have to know if the river caused damage anywhere else.” Rukio agreed.
“Keruji and Rukio, you guys come with me,” Rune ordered, “We’ll check by the gorge, incase those lions come back. Coco and Toni, you guys can patrol our southern borders, you wont have to worry about any predators there. Mandy, you stay here incase we need you.” Mandy nodded, and Toni and Coco nodded and left. Keruji and Rukio followed Rune and they headed into the forest. Rune couldn’t help but wonder what they would find at the river.

Chapter 2

Rune and his group reached the gorge that bordered his jungle with the other jungle. The ground was hard rock, and the trees grew several feet away from the ledge. The ground had some dried mud. The gorge was slightly narrow, and the river was high, only about three lion’s tail lengths from the surface. The current was fast, and up ahead, rocks stuck out of the water. Rune looked around, everything seemed to be good. Rukio and Keruji spread out checking everything and smelling for other animal scents. Keruji walked along the river looking down. Rukio walked along the river in the opposite direction, sniffing the ground and the trees.
Rune climbed down the gorge and jumped in the river, the current swept him down. Rune then grabbed hold of a large rock that was sticking out of the water. He was losing his grip fast. Rune pulled himself up. Rukio and Keruji looked into the gorge to see Rune struggling to keep out of the water. They ran toward where Rune was and Keruji leaped over the gorge’s side and landed on the rock Rune was holding on to. Keruji bit down on Rune’s scarf, then he pulled him up. Rune felt his weight become lighter and he use the last of his strength to haul himself out of the river. With Keruji’s help, Rune was out of the water, but the rock was too small for the both of them. Before Rune could say anything,  Keruji leaped from that rock to another smaller rock sticking out, then leaped for the side of the gorge. He slide down the side, then climbed up again until finally he was on top. Rune did as he did then Rukio did the same. All three of them were now on the other side of the river. Keruji and Rukio turned to face Rune.
“You’re an idiot.” Keruji said.
“What’s wrong with you,” Rukio cried, “You could have been killed!” Rune looked at them, then his curiosity distracting him from what his friends were saying pulled him in the other direction. He turned to look at his surroundings.
“Your brother’s weird.” Keruji murmured to Rukio. Rukio shrugged it off and walked up to Rune. “Rune,” Rukio  whispered to Rune, “We shouldn’t be here. This isn’t our territory.” Rune didn’t take his eyes of the sight in front of him. Keruji turned and again walked along side the gorge smelling around. He looked down at the river, the further along the gorge he went, the higher the river got. With the distance came more and more rocks sticking out of the water. Keruji looked down at the rocks, at that moment, something caught his eye. He realized that it wasn’t a rock he was looking at, it was a body!
“Rune,” Keruji yelled, “Get over here, you might want to see this!” Rune looked toward Keruji, puzzled. He had just barely heard what Keruji was saying. He ran to Keruji with Rukio behind him. Rune walked up to Keurji, he was ready to ask him what was going on, when Keruji pointed his head in the direction he wanted him to see. Just teo lion’s tails length from the gorge’s surface the river ran slightly thin between many rocks sticking out of the water. The one rock Keruji pointed to was more flat than some of the others, and its surface was half out of the water. Rune gasp at what he saw on the rock. It was a lion cub about their age laying across the rock, dead.

Chapter 3

“Oh no,” Rukio cried, “what happened?”
“She probably fell in the river during the storm and drowned.” Keruji answered coldly.
“That’s terrible,” Rukio replied, “And no one was there to help her…” Rune looked at the still body. He jumped down into the gorge and leaped from rock to rock until he was on her rock. Keruji and Rukio followed him. Rune stood over the helpless body, he kneeled down and examined her closely. She has scars along her shoulder blades, some bite marks on her back and some open wounds on her legs. Rukio pressed her ears against her flank, “She’s alive!” Rukio announced, but then her hope turned to disappoinment when she continued to listen, “Barely, her breathing is weak, and she feels very cold.”  Then Keruji started to sniff her fur, then jerked up in disgust, “She smells of Claw!” Keruji exclaimed angrily.
“Who’s Claw?” Rukio asked, Rune looked at Keruji with the same puzzled look.
“Who’s Claw?” Keruji replied, “Claw is a blind, evil lion who just wants power. Ever since he went blind he became a blood thirsty murderer!”
“Then what should we do with her?” Rukio asked, “If she’s associated with Claw, then maybe we shouldn’t help her.” Rune looked down at the helpless lion, with disappointment.
“Throw her back in the river.” Keruji suggested with his irritable tone.
“NO!” Rune protested angrily, “We’re taking her back to our place, and were going to try to help her. I’m doing this with or with out your support. I will not stand by and let someone die.” With out waiting for a response, Rune hauled up the lioness’ body onto his back, and made his way to the gorge. He made it to the top then left with out waiting for Keruji and Rukio. Keruji and Rukio looked at each other, confused.

Later that evening, Rune entered his home entrance. He walked over to the nest where he usually sleeps and saw Mandy tending to the injured lioness they had helped earlier today. After Rune brought her back, he was Mandy to check her wounds since he knew about medicine. He had been taking care of her since. Mandy looked at Rune and smiled. “It looks like she’ll recover,” Mandy said to Rune, “Though I make no promises, she seems to be improving.” Rune felt a wave of relief. Mandy headed out the door, Rune thanked him then lied down next to the lioness. Keruji and Rukio in the other room watched.
“What’s he doing??” Rukio murmured, “He’s laying next to her.”
“Well,” Keruji replied in sarcasm, “Now we know the real reason he brought her here.”
“What do you mean”
“Isn’t it obvious?” Keruji smirked at Rukio then turned to the window. He leaped onto ledge and went to sleep. Rukio shrugged off his words and went to join him. She laid under the window where he slept.

The next morning, the sun’s rays shone through the entrance. The young lioness that Rune rescued yesterday had woke up. She lifted her head slowly, realizing she had no idea where she was, she turned and saw Rune sleeping next to her. Frightend by the stranger next to her she jumped out of the nest and growled at Rune. Rune awoke and saw her staring at him with hostility. He got up calmly and stretched, then faced her, “Good morning,”
“Good morning?” She replied, “Who are you? Why am I here?”
“I brought you here, you were half dead by the river.” Rune got up and started to walk toward her.
“Stay away from me!” She growled. Rune smiled at her strong will. He ignored her warning.
“Come on, is that anyway to treat someone who saved you?” Rune took a step closer, and she tried to swipe at him. Rune evaded the swipe and pressed forward. “Relax, I’m not going to hurt you. Why would I bring you here and help you just to hurt you?” She still eyed him carefully, Rune then took another step forward, and at that she lunged at him, but it was immediately cut short when the pain of her injuries struck and she fell to the floor. Rune rushed to her, picked her up by her scruff and pulled her to the nest.
“Your not strong enough to be moving that much,” Rune whispered to her. She tried to catch her breath then rested her head. Rune can see she was fearful of him and the surrounds. Rune talked to her softly. Rukio was watching from the other room.
“Now what’s going on?” Keruji asked,
“Shh, there just talking,” Rukio replied.
“Boring, I’m going for a walk, you coming?”
“Sure.” Rukio looked back at Rune again, then followed Keruji out the door.
Rune watched as Keruji and Rukio left, he knew they were watching. Once they were gone, her spoke again, “So what’s your name?” She turned to face him, she was still frightened of Rune, “…Maira.” she responded.
“Can you tell me what happened,” Rune asked, “Or  are you not ready to talk about it yet?” Maira didn’t respond to that question. She looked out the door, her eyes swirled with a history of sorrow. Rune felt a pang of guilt even asking. She put her head down, facing the door, still looking outside. Rune couldn’t help wonder what she was thinking about, he gave her head a comforting lick, then also put his head down and went to sleep.

Keruji and Rukio walked through the woods, they were headed to Malody’s cliff. Keruji crawled out of the bushes with Rukio behind. From a higher ledge of the cliff, a small lion cub looked down at them. “Who’s that?” Rukio asked. Keruji looked up the see the little cub. He was smaller than Keruji but he shared his color pattern. His fur was a mid-tone grey with a small brown tuft of hair on his head. His ears were big and they perked up when Keruji met eyes with him.
“Hey, Keruji’s back!” The little cub cried out.
“That’s my brother,” Keruji said to Rukio, “Koda, and he’s very annoying.”
Koda ran down the cliff side the meet his brother. “Hey brother! Where’ve you been?” Koda asked him, excitedly, “I thought you were going to take me with you into the jungle!”
“No,” Keruji protested, “Dad was suppose to take you, not me!”
“He told me you were!” Keruji tunred to Rukio with frustration, “do you see what I mean?” Rukio looked at him an chuckled. Keruji went ahead and started climbing the cliff, and Rukio followed behind, then Koda followed too.
They finally reached near the top when Keruru, Keruji’s father, appeared in front of them. “Good,” Keruru started, “I’m glad you here, We’re being threatend by the mountain lions again.”
“What?” Keruji exclaimed, “The mountain lions are back? I thought we saw the last of them? How can this be?”
“This time, they are being led by Claw.”

Chapter 4

“Claw?” Keruji replied, “But why?”
“I don’t know, but one passed by here yesterday morning and left a dead hawk in front of our den. It was almost as if it were a warning that they were coming back. The dead hawk was brought by the mountain lion, but was killed by Claw, he had his scent on it to let us know that he’s behind this.”
“I better go warn my brother!” Rukio exclaimed, then she fled from the mountain as fast as she could. Keruji felt a chill go down his spine. He remembered that it was the mountain lions who tried to steal their home and killed many of their family members including their uncle, Amji.

Rukio raced through the woods, behind she heard her named being called. When she turned to see, it was Coco following her.
“What’s the hurry?” Coco asked, “Did you find anything in the ares you patrolled?”
“Yes,” Rukio replied, “We have to hurry back home, Runes in danger!” Rukio and Coco hurried as fast as they can through the woods. “What kind of danger?” Coco asked.
“There’s a bloodthirsty lion lurking around the jungle, and one of his followers with Rune!” Rukio answered frantically, “He’s leading a pack of mountain lions that live outside the forest. A while back, the mountain lions raided and attacked Keruji’s family, now they want revenge. They might now stop there, if the over power them, they could come after us too!” Rukio and Coco reached the castle. It was quiet. Rukio stepped up to the stairs and called Rune. Coco flew up but before he reached the entrance, Rune stepped out on top. Rune wasn’t hurt, he looked fine from where he was standing. “What’s up, guys?” Rune responded.
“Rune,” Rukio called, “Come over here! You need to know something!” Rune looked down at Rukio in question, he turned his head and nodded, most likely to Maira, then turned and started walking down the stairs. Rukio sat down and Coco sat on Rukio’s shoulder. Rune came down the stairs and sat in front of Rukio. He gave her a nod allowing her to speak.
“Listen Rune,” Rukio started, “That lion has to go. The lion Keruji smelled on her, Claw-”
“Claw?” Coco interrupted, “Did you saw Claw?! Oh no!”
“Claw?” Rune asked.
“Wait, you know who he is, Coco? Rukio pointed out.
“Everyone knows Claw,” Coco replied nervously, “Claw was an old enemy of both Panja AND your father! Once, long ago, he tried to take over the jungle while Panja ruled. Panja fought Claw, then he blinded his right eye. He and Kimba were enemies, too. He tried to kill Kimba as revenge against Panja and failed. Though during the war with humans, Claw was at peace with Kimba, but that all changed when he challenged him again. Then Kimba took out his other eye. No one has seen Claw since.”
“How come Dad never told us this?” Rune asked.
“I guess it just never came up,” Coco replied, “We all just assume that he went into hiding, and that he’d be harmless, or even dead.”
“So that just increases the odds of him coming after us,” Rukio mumbled. “Yesterday we found a lion cub, our age, by the river. Rune brought her back and Mandy treated her wounds.” Rukio turned to Rune and continued, “Remember the mountain lions that attacked Keruji’s family a long time ago?” Rukio replied, “They’re coming back, and they’re being lead by Claw. The lion we found is his follower, she has to leave before she leads him here and kills us all!” Rune grew angrier with Rukio’s words. He turned and looked up at the castle’s entrance and looked down again.
“Rukio maybe right,” Coco said, “We can’t trust her is she’s following Claw.”
“I’ll go talk to her.” Rune replied. His done was low and depressed. All the news for him was too overwhelming. Rune turned away and walked up the stairs with his head drooping. Coco and Rukio followed Rune.
The three of them reached the top of the steps, Rune turned to Coco and Rukio, “You guys just stay here and listen,” He said, “Don’t come in here.” Rune’s tone againt them was slightly aggressive. Rukio was startled by what he said, but then she realized by now that Rune must be close enough to her that she’ll only talk to him. If Rukio and Coco go in with Rune, then she might be afraid to speak.
“Maira,” Rune spoke softly, Maira lifted her head and looked at Rune with a blank expression. Rune continued, “Can you please tell me your connection with Claw?”

Chapter 5

Rune’s question took Maira by surprise. Maira got up and slowly walked up to Rune and sat down in front of him.
“I used to live with Claw, and his follower Shaka.” She started, “When I was a cub, I lived with my pride out in the savannah. My father was the pride leader and I had two brothers, life was good. One day my father grew sick, and even though my mother tried to hide it from the other lions. One found out and challenged my father. He killed my father, and took over the pride, he threatened to my mother that he would kill the three of us. My mother sent me away so that I wouldn’t be killed. It was too late for my brothers. I traveled as far as I could. Just when I thought my life was over, Claw came along. He took me and said he’d take care of me. It was a lie. He enslaved me. He abused me if I didn’t do what he said. So I tried to run away. I remembered being attacked, then I woke up by you.” Rune was horrified by her story. Maira got up and walked up to the near window and looked out, as if she couldn’t bear her own story. “…I only stayed as long as I did because I had no where else to go.” She added. Rune saw her fear. He knew even though she was associated with Claw, she was not on his side.
“Well now you do,” Rune offered, “You can stay here with us.”
“What?” Maira asked.
“You can stay here with me and my sister,” Rune continued, “We run this forest. We took over after our parents died. Claw cant harm you here.” Maira smiled gratefully, and nodded.
Rukio and Coco, listening from another room were shocked at Rune’s offer and they looked at each other. “Is he crazy?” Rukio murmured, “We don’t know what she’s really like.”
“Now you have to be extra cautious!” Coco replied. Just as they looked up, Rune was already standing in front of them. Rukio and Coco jumped back in surprise.
“Hey guys,” Rune remarked, “Maira is going to stay with us for a while, I want you guys to meet her.” Rune’s tone was impatient. He knew what they were thinking, but he didn’t care. Rukio and Coco exchanged wary glances and followed Rune into the next room. Rukio and Coco stopped to sit and Rune took a seat next to Maira. Maira was worried, she was able to sense the distrust in the two. “Maira, this is my sister, Rukio,” Rune said, “And this is Coco, he is a friend of the family.” Rune turned to Rukio and Coco and his tone changed to a slightly annoyed yet unreadable. “Rukio and Coco,” He continued, “This is Maira.” The three exchanged neutral greeting nods. Coco flew up to Rune, “Now that we all know each other,” Coco started, “We should now find out what Claw is planning.”
Rune got up and walked to the entrance with his head down, thinking. “I wonder,” Rune said, “Why would he recruit the mountain lions?”
“He’s planning a hostile take over.” Maira replied. Her tone was shaky, everyone looked at her in question, she continued, “If this is Panja’s Jungle, then this is where it’ll happen. He told us.” Rukio went up to Maira,
“Maira,” Rukio spoke calmly, “Tell us what you know about this plan. If we know what he’s going to do, then maybe we can stop it before it happens.”
“He didn’t say much,” Maira replied, “He told us he wanted revenge, and that he was going to take back his jungle.”
“So he still hasn’t let that go,” Coco added, “He just wont quit.”
“The day before he attacked me, he met a mountain lion,” Maira continued, “After that he told us he was going to use them to get what he wants.”
“Then we have to find him and stop him!” Rune rushed for the door, Maira leaped up and ran in front of Rune, “Wait!” she cried.
“Maira,” Rune protested, “He has to be stopped!”
“No Rune,” Maira argued, “He’ll kill you!”
“You don’t understand, it’s my job to protect this forest, and everyone in it. I promise, I wont die. Besides, he’s blind, we have a huge advantage over him”
“Its not that easy. Claw doesn’t need his eyes to see you. He hears every movement, feels every vibration on the ground, and scents all fear. He’s trained himself to be lethal with out his eyes.”
“Then you guys cant confront yet,” Coco added, “He’ll no every move you do! Its impossible.” Rune looked at Coco, then to Maira and Rukio. All their expressions were of lost hope. Its as is they lost the battle before it started. Rune felt a rush of disappointment. What was the next move they needed to take? Just before Rune got up, a loud cry outside caught all their attention.
“Help,” The voice from outside called, Help!!! I’m being attacked!”

Chapter  6

“That’s sounds like Toni!” Coco called out. Rune, Rukio and Coco ran for the door, but they saw nothing. They heard the cry again, but if came from further in the woods. Rune ran forward, “I’m coming, Toni!” he yelled as he ran through. Rukio and Coco were close behind. When they reached the scene, Toni was surrounded by three mountain lions. Their fur was dark brown and their eyes glowed red. Their teeth shone white as the were hunched over ready to strike Toni. Toni stood in the center trembling in fear. Rune ran forward and struck the first mountain lion to the ground, Rukio attacked the second lion and Rune went for the third. The lions didn’t fight back. They laid on the ground where they were thrown. They looked up at Rune and Rukio, and smiled, grimly. Rune stood up the them angrily.
“Okay,” Rune growled, “Who are you, and what do you think your doing?” The lions looked at each other and chuckled. Rune looked at them confused, what were they laughing at? Was this all a set up? The lions got up and they ran through the woods “Hey, come back here!” Rune growled then he chased after them. Rukio walked up to Toni and spoke calmly, “Are you okay, Toni?” Toni nodded, though he was still shaking, “What happened?” Coco asked,
“I was on my way to you guys,” Toni replied, “I wanted to give my report on the river from yesterday. Then they just came out of nowhere and attacked me.”
“Those must be the same mountain lions that are teaming up with Claw.” Rukio added.
“CLAW????” Toni shouted “He’s back!! I thought he was gone for good!!!” Coco flew up to Toni and explained the whole situation.
“We have to catch up to Rune before something happens,” Rukio said. Just as they turned toward the direction they wanted to go to, they heard a faint rustling in the bushes.
“The mountain lions are back!!” Toni and Coco shouted, their bodies trembled and the jumped behind Rukio. Rukio turn to the bushes and growled. The rustling grew louder. Rukio was just about ready to pounce when a familiar face appeared in front of them. It was Maira.
Rukio, Coco and Toni let out a sigh of relief, but Rukio became slightly annoyed. Maira stepped forward. She was gasping for breath. He body looked frail and week.
“What are you doing here?” Rukio asked her.
“Please,” Maira replied, “I want to help.”  Maira struggled as she spoke. Her injuries were brining her down. Rukio was annoyed by her arrogance, and her distrust for Maira only fueled it. But as she watched her, Rukio couldn’t help but feel some pity for her. She walked up to Maira and leaned her against her shoulder. “Okay,” Rukio said, “You can come, but your still too injured to fight.” Maira nodded in agreement. And the small group took off following Rune’s trail.

Rune ran as fast as he possibly could. Rune could see the mountain lions a few feet ahead of him but he was getting tired. Up ahead he could see light. The end of the forest was close. He ran faster. Rune leaped into the forest’s border. He was out of the woods. In front of him was almost the same as where he found Maira. The river bordered the two forests. Only the river was level with the ground, there was no gorge. Rune saw in front on him, the three mountain lions he chased, standing next to them was a black panther and behind them was a blind lion. He was huge, but a little scrawny, his fur was matted has if he never took care of himself. His face was full of tiny scars, but the two most noticeable ones were the ones that claimed his vision.
“So you most be Kimba’s son,” Claw said.
“And you must be Claw.” Rune replied.
“Yes, yes. So you have heard of me.”
“I know everything about you and your plans!”
“Oh really? I doesn’t matter now, you can’t stop me, son of Kimba!”
“My name is Rune!” moments later, Rukio appeared out of the trees with Coco, Toni and Maira  far behind. Maira saw Claw and took a step back in fear.
“Maira, is that you,” Claw asked, his tone was dark. “I should of known that you’d be a traitor.” Maira froze. Claw faced Rukio, Coco, and Toni.
“I smell all of your fear scent” He retorted, “this shouldn’t be to hard. Kill them all!”

Chapter 7

The mountain lions, and the black panther race toward Rune. Coco and Toni ran for the woods. Rune was shoved to the ground by one of the three mountain lions. He was pinned to the ground, and the lion sank his teeth on Rune’s shoulder, Rune growled in pain. One of the mountain lions chased after Toni and Coco. Rukio went after them and stopped them from gong further, allowing Toni and Coco to escape unharmed. Another mountain lion joined in against Rukio, they both had her pinned. Maira jumped on one’s back and bit down on his neck. The lion cried in pain, he leaped in the air with Maira still on his back then rolled on the ground and she then let go.
Rune swung his back leg tripping the mountain lion to the ground, which forced him to let go of his hold on him. Rune got up but was quickly pinned again by the back panther. “Fight as hard as you want son of Kimba,” Shaka retorted, “You will never stop us!”
“We’ll see about that!!” Rune growled. He lunged his head into Shaka’s neck. Shaka gagged for breath and fell over. Rune bit him on the back of his neck, then with all his strength he flung him to the side. One mountain lion fled, he crossed to river and ran into the other forest. Not long after, another one followed him. They were winning the fight against them. “He’s getting away!” Rukio yelled. Rune turned around and saw Claw running away. Rune turned to chase Claw, but Shaka came again from behind and shoved him down. Rukio was fighting the last mountain lion. Maira watched Rune and Rukio fight, but she can see that they were stuck. She had to do something. Without thinking she got up and chased Claw. Rune slashed Shaka’s face with his claws. He saw Maira going after Claw. But her injuries were getting her, forcing her to slow down.
Claw turned around, he leaped in the air and landed on Maira. He pressed his large heavy paw down on Maira’s neck, slowly choking her. “Are you ready to die?” Claw growled, “I do not let traitors live!” Maira was losing breath fast. Just before she was about to lose consciousness, Rune leaped over Claw. He landed on his back and bit down on his shoulders. Claw released his hold on Maira and swung the paw at Rune. Rune flew the ground, and Claw redirected his attentions to Rune. Maira took a deep breath and laid still on the ground.
Rune got up and lunged at Claw. Claw dodged him. Rune tried his attack again. But Claw dodged again. Rune was getting tired, his attacks were started to slow down. He looked at Maira who was laying helplessly on the ground and Rukio who was fighting the mountain lion and Shaka. Claw was coming toward him. Rune prepared for his attack.
But instead of attacking, he came up close to Rune and whispered in his ear: “I’m going to take back this jungle. This jungle is rightfully mine. It was taken from me by Panja and Kimba. I will not lose it again.”
“What are you saying?” Rune asked. Exhaustion clouded his voice. He couldn’t keep a strong stance.
“I’m giving you a chance,” Claw continued, “Surrender, and I’ll let you and your friends live. I’ll even give you time to get all your loved ones out of the jungle too. What do you say?” Rune hesitated. He knew he couldn’t give up the jungle. But his friends lives were in danger. He stood up to Claw, “No,” Rune answered, “This wasn’t your jungle before, and it isn’t yours now. It will never be yours!” Claw became furious with Rune’s response. He lunged his fangs at Rune and bit down on his back. Rune cried in agony, blood dripped down from his back. Claw lifted Rune’s body and flung him in the air, and as his body came down, Claw whipped his paw at him and knocked him forward. After Rune hit the ground, he attempted getting up, but then fell again.
“Since you don’t want to make this easy for me,” Claw growled furiously, “I will make this difficult for you!” Claw smacked Rune with the back of his paw. Then Claw stepped on Rune’s face.
“First I’ll killed all you’re your friends,” Claw continued, “Then, I’ll come back and take what is rightfully mine. Once I’ve gained full control, I’ll kill you slowly!” Rune became angered at his words, but he was too weak to fight. Claw picked up Rune and threw him again. Claw was coming back again. Rune started to lose his vision. It was getting blurry, he was ready to pass out. Claw stood over him. He saw him open his mouth. Claw was about to pick him up again. Rune shut his eyes.
But nothing happened. Rune heard Claw scream in angered. Rune looked up, Claw was being attacked! Rune couldn’t see who it was. One of his friends on Claws back, biting his ears. Claw struggled to get the attacker off of his back, but the attacker was persistent and strong.
Rune struggled to get up. He had to know who was doing this. Claw ran in circles. He couldn’t hold still the attacker was being shadowed the sun. Rune focused his vision. Claw finally threw the attacker off his of back. The attacker hit the ground and stayed there for a moment. Rune was finally able to see who it was.
It was Maira.

Chapter 8

“Maira!” Rune yelled.
“Maira got up and looked at Claw. Rune looked at Claw, Claw was screaming in pain. When Rune looked at him closer, his saw his ear was bleeding heavily. Maira had ripped Claw’s ear off. Claw was furious. Rukio came up to Rune, “Rune,” she said, “are you okay?” Rune got up slowly and face Rukio: “Yeah, never better.” Rune smiled at her, he turned to see behind her and that the last mountain lion and Shaka had fled. Rune and Rukio looked toward Claw, Maira was still trying to attack him. Rune got up and tried to run, but he fell. He was too tired to move. Rukio ran to his side.  Maira was down again, this time she didn’t get back up. Claw was closing in on her.
“Maira look out!” Rune shouted, but Maira didn’t respond she was too weak to move. Them a roar of another lion echoed through them from behind. Claw turned around, and perked his ears. Rune and Rukio turned around and was shocked to see it was Keruru!
Keruru and Keruji stepped forward. Keruji ran to Rukio and Rune. “I thought you guys might be here.” he remarked.
Keruru went up to Claw. “I think you’ve done enough today.” He growled. Keruru lifted his paw with claws unsheathed threatening an attack. Claw lunged at Keruru, but Keruru swung his large paw and knocked Claw to the ground. Keruru didn’t wait, he charged after Claw while he was down. He grabbed Claw by the back of his neck and flug him into the river. The river was shallow, Claw got up and faced toward Keruru. Kerur roared loud in anger, and Claw took a step back.
“This isn’t over!” Claw growled, “I will be back to take back my jungle!” after his words he turned and fled into the forest.
“Yeah, we’ll see about that.” Keruru retorted. Keruru then turned around and looked at Maira. Maira struggled to get up. She got up and Keruru started to walk to Rune and Rukio. “Thanks for saving us Keruru” Rune said.
“Yeah,” Rukio added, “I don’t know what we would of done with out you.”
“Be killed, that’s what,” Keruru replied, angrily, “What’s with you fools? You shouldn’t blindly run into battle like that!”
“Shut up, dad!” Keruji retorted.
“Stay out of this!” Keruru growled, “These cubs have a lot to learn. You have to learn about your opponent before you race into battle like that. Fools.” Keruru started to walk away. Rune looked back and watched as Keruru left.
“Keruji,” Rukio asked, “How did you guys know we were here?”
“I was coming back to mean you guys when I saw two mountain lions crossing the river from my cliff,” Keruji replied, “I told my dad and he said we should go check it out.” Maira walked up to Rune and nuzzled him. Rune looked up at her, “Thanks for saving me” He murmured.
“Are you okay?” she asked.
“Yeah I’m fine,” he replied. Rune looked back again. He thought hard about everything. Maira sat next to him.
“Rune,” Rukio said, “Lets go home.”

Rune sat on the porch of the castle, looking toward the setting sun. Rukio, Maira and Keruji were inside, chatting about the fight they had with Claw earlier. Mandy had just finished checking Rukio and Maira’s wounds. Keruji just stayed and watched. Coco and Toni were also inside. Rukio came outside to see Rune, “Is something bothering you?” She asked. Rune didn’t answered. He could only hear the words of Keruru echoing in his mind. Rune got up and started walking down the stairs. “Where are you going?” Rukio asked.
“I’ll be back,” Rune replied, “I need to take care of something.” Rune walked through the woods.
Moments later, he found himself at Malody’s Cliff. Rune climbed it until he reached the main den. Keruru was standing outside. He saw Rune approaching and he met him at the den. “What is it?” Keruru asked.
“Can you train me?” Rune asked, “I want to learn to fight.”
“Train you?” Keruru replied, “Okay then, meet me here at dawn.”

Chapter 9

Several miles outside of the forest. A large pack of mountain lions were traveling. There were hundreds of them. They were crossing the desserts. The sky was orange with the sun’s setting. A straggler behind fell to the ground. “Get up fool!” The leading lion growled, “We don’t have all night!”
“I’m sorry sir,” The straggler replied, “I’m so thirsty, I cant move.”
“We should really rest for tonight sir,” a follower added. “The heat is strong and we may lose half of us.”
“You fools!” The leading lion growled, “We have to meet Claw, tonight! If this guy is what he says he is, we cant get the turf we had always dreamed of! Besides, nightfall is coming, it’ll be easier to travel without the sun.”
“But we’re tired now,” The straggler protested, “We should rest while the sun is going down, then continue after.”
“I never said we were going to rest!” Retorted the leader, “We don’t have time to rest, you either come with use, or stay here and die!” The other lions looked at each other with confusion. They were all exhausted from their travels, but they all desired the mountain they lost the fight for. The straggler stood up again, and forced his pace with the group. The group moved on again. “Listen everyone,” The leader announced, “We still have a long way to go. Some of our pride is already there. I was told that not only will we get this mountain, but a whole jungle!”
“How do you know we can trust this guy?” A follower asked.
“I’m not to worried about that,” the leader replied, “If he cannot be trusted, we’ll simply kill him once we’ve learned his plan. There’s no way he could out number us. This is a win win situation we got here.” All the mountain lion roared at his words. They were making victory chants. The leader looked at his pack and smiled, grimly: “Soon we will all rule the forest! We will be unstoppable!”
As they walked forward, above them, a vulture flew over them. “Sir!” a follower yelled, “What should we do about that thing flying above us?
“Ignore it,” The leader replied, “Once it sees that none of us is dead, it’ll go away.” the vulture flew down, and stopped in front of the leader. “You must be the guests Claw is expecting,” said the vulture, “I will lead to him.”
“Fine then,” The leader replied.
The vulture flew in the air and the mountain lions followed in his direction. A few miles later, the straggler from before fell to the ground again. “What now!” yelled the leader.
“Sir,” a follower replied, “Taka is dead!”
“What?” The leader replied, “How?”
“Probably from the heat sir.” Another follower added.
“Well then,” the leader said, “If he’s not strong enough to take the heat, then hes not strong enough for this, lets go.”
“What if its an omen!” another follower added.
“Maybe we shouldn’t trust that vulture,” another follower replied.
“Shut up,” The leader complained, “I don’t want to hear any more of that!”
The vulture chuckled to himself: now I have a meal for later today must be my luck day, ha ha.

Chapter 10

In Claws cave, Claw sat a few feet from the entrance. Next to him was Shaka, and behind him were the three mountain lions from earlier. Night set in fully, and the vulture flew in the cave and landed in front of Claw. “They’re here, Claw,” The vulture said, “All of them.”
“Good,” Claw replied, “Bring them in.” Only the first few mountain lions entered. The rest laid down outside. The leader approached Claw right away and said: “Tell us the plan, Claw. How are we doing this?”
“The forest is lead by a white lion cub named Rune. He has some cubs that are following him. They are only cubs, we can handle them.” Replied Claw.
“So once they’re out of the way, we control the forest?” The leader asked.
“Not quite,” Claw replied, “The barbary lions still have a strong hold on the cliff. They are my main concern.”
“Okay, so we’ll just take them out first.” The leader added.
“The barbary lions will not give up so easily.” Shaka said. “We’ll have to take them out by force. Their numbers have increased over the years.”
“Listen” The leader replied, “Let me lead the attack on the barbarys! We can take him out. With all do respect, Claw, your blind. You might be at a serious disadvantage! Let me be leader of this!” Shaka looked at Claw, he tried to read his facial expression, he wasn’t sure how Claw would react to that proposal. He knew that Claw wouldn’t let it happen. But what was Claw going to do?
“You want to lead the attack on the barbary lions?” Claw asked.
“Yes,” the leader replied, “I am a leader after all.” It is my job.”
“But I’m leader of this invasion. I will decide what we do.”
“You are not the leader of my pride, Claw! You can tell us what you want but you cannot order around my pride like their yours, I’m their leader!” Claw nodded. He paused and faced Shaka. Shaka didn’t know what Claw was expressing. But he knew that this wasn’t what he wanted.
Claw looked toward the mountain lions’ leader again. “I understand,” He said, “They are yours and no one else has control but you?”
“I’m sorry, Claw,” The leader replied, “I didn’t mean any harshness, I get a little edgy when it comes to my leadership. You know about this more than I do, you can be leader until we get to the mountain where the barbary lions are, but from there, I continue my leadership. Deal?” The mountain lion leader’s tone was untrusting and had a hint of sarcasm. Shaka looked at Claw, and Claw had a look of certainty.
Claw smiled at the leader. “Okay then,” He started, “Then we need to discuss something. Away from the others, this is between leaders. Come with me.”
“Okay,” replied the leader. The leader’s tone changed, he felt that Claw understood his terms. He rushed behind Claw. The pack of mountain lions watched, Even Shaka watched, and wondered.
Claw and the mountain lions’ leader disappeared into the shadows. They were no longer in their sites. Shaka turned to face the mountain lions. Just as he was about to speak, a loud roar came from behind them. The mountain lions looked up and Shaka turned his head around fast to see what had happened. Moments later, Claw appeared from the shadows with the body of the mountain lion leader’s body dangling from his mouth. His throat was cut clean. Killed instantly.
Claw threw the body in front of the pack of mountain lions, they all gasped in fear.
“Listen up,” Announced Claw, “From this night on, I am your new leader! You will do as I say! And I say we’re are going to take back my jungle forever!”

Description
The Adventures of Rune and Rukio
Book 2:

Prologue:

It was nightfall in the forest. The threat of a storm drew near. The stars were slowly being covered by dark rain clouds. The winds grew heavier with the storm’s approach. The trees swayed from side to side, and leaves flew everywhere. Even the river’s current got stronger. The first crash of thunder echoed through the forest. Soon after that, rain began to fall.
In the cave across the river, the sounds of the thunder echoed even louder. It awoke a large lion sleeping a few feet from the cave’s entrance. His ears perked at the sounds of thunder, and he lifted his head. He pointed his ears toward the entrance, as if listening to the storm outside.
“Maira!” He shouted, “Get over here, I need a favor.”
In the far end of the cave, a young lion cub got up, and walked up to him. As she got closer to the entrance, she became more visible. Her coat was sleek golden brown, and her eyes were pearl black. Even the tips of her ears were black.
“What is it, Claw?” She asked.
“This storm is keeping me awake, and now I’m hungry.” Claw replied. “fetch me something to eat, like a gazelle, or a warthog.”
“But Claw,” Maira protested, “ The storm is really bad, none of the animals will be out now! There’s barely any prey around here as it is!”
“Then go to Panja’s forest and hunt.” Claw replied. “Its across the river. There’s plenty of prey there.” Before she can respond, another voice sounded in the background, “But hunting there is not allowed.” The shadow from behind came closer to Claw and Maira, he was a black pather, with a sleek coat.
“Nonsense, Shaka” Claw replied, “Its okay if she doesn’t get caught,” after his response, they both chuckled. Maira looked out of the cave, then back at Claw.
“I’m not going to hunt there if I’m not allowed to.” She said, calmly.
“You will follow orders,” Claw retorted, “ Or you will suffer the consequences! Go out and get me food!” Maira flinched, then looked away, “No,” she answered calmly. “I’m not doing it, Claw.” Claw growled and stood up, as Maira turned to see him, Claw whipped his claws at her, sending her straight for the ground. Blood began trickling down the side of her face. She laid there in fear of what he may do next. She was speechless.
“No one disobeys me and gets away with it,” Claw growled, “Now you will pay!”
Maira looked up, though her vision was slightly blurred from the shock of attack, she saw him approaching slowly toward her. She kept predicting his next move, she knew that if she didn’t do something, she was going to be killed.
At that moment as Claw closed in, Shaka began to approach from another side. There was only one way out, Maira leaped up and ran through a small gap between Claw and Shaka and made her way to the exit. The blind lion twisted his paw in her direction. Shaka turned and ran to the exit to try to catch up with her, then Claw followed.
Maira ran in the pouring rain, she cried for help, but no one was around in this storm. Claw and Shaka were right on her tail. Up ahead was deep gorge, on the bottom was the river. The heavy rains caused the river to rise, with the river flowing only several feet from the surface of the gorge.  Maira turned and ran along side the gorge looking for a across the river. Then suddenly, she slipped on mud and fell to the ground, and as she tried to get back up, Shaka caught her. He sank his teeth into her shoulder blade, and blood started to drip. Claw slowly approached them. He growled furiously toward her. Shaka let her loose, then Claw bit down on her back. Maira screamed frantically in pain. Claw tightened his grip, nearly crushing her bones, then finally, he slightly loosened his grip. He lifted her up and flung her over the side of the gorge. The current carried her body fast, and she tried to swim against it but it was no use. The river took her away. Claw and Shaka watched and chuckled in amusement  as she was swept away with the river, Maira was now out of their sight.

Chapter 1

The sun started to rise. The rays of light glimmered over the wet forest trees. Even the castle glowed brightly against the blue sky behind it. Rune was standing at the entrance of the castle. He took a deep breath and looked around, cheerfully. Its been two weeks since Rune returned home after his adventures with the humans and then learning of the devastation that happened while he was gone. Rune was happier than ever to be home. He was the new king of the jungle, along with his sister Rukio who was queen. Kimba and Raiya, their parents died while Rune was gone, leaving Rukio to look after the jungle. Now Rune is home to share the responsibility.
Rune turned and peeked inside and saw that Rukio was still asleep. He then left and headed into the jungle. He ran happily in the woods, flooded with excitement. He looked up and saw monkeys in the trees grooming each other and birds singing. He ran straight for the meadow. All the animals are out, grazing in the fields. He ran through field, checking on everything. He came up to a crowed of antelope who were relaxing in the tall grass. “Good morning,” Rune busted out, “how are you today?”
“Good morning Rune” The first antelope answered, “We’re fine thank you.”
Rune smiled and took off again.
The sun rose high, and Rune headed back for home to see if his sister was awake yet. He came out through the trees and paced up to the steps of his home. He saw to the side of the steps, Keruji was laying against the wall grooming himself.
“Hey Keru,” Rune said, “What brings you here so early?”
“I just came here for some peace and quiet,” Keruji answered, “you wont get any of that at my place.” Keruji went back to grooming himself. Rune smiled, and ran back up the stairs. Inside, Rukio was laying down with Toni and Mandy standing in front of her, talking. Rune walked up to them, gave his greetings and laid down next Rukio.
“Hey Rune,” Rukio said, “We were just talking about last night’s storm.”
“Yeah,” Toni added, “The river overflowed in some parts of the jungle, floods everywhere!”
“Yes, but nothing too serious,” Mandy replied, “we’ll be fine.”
“What about Coco,” Rukio asked, “Where is he? He still needs to give his report on the storm.”
“I haven’t seen Coco all morning,” Rune replied, “I’m sure he’s on his way.”
“Can I come in?” Keruji entered in front, without waiting for an answer he made his way to the small group and sat next to Rukio.
“Hey Keruji,” Rukio greeted him, “We were just talking about the storm last night.”
“Yeah, I remember,” Keruji replied, “A whole bunch of animals came up the mountain thinking the flood was going to hit them and it never did.” Several moments later, Coco flew in the entrance. “Rune,” Coco called out, “Sorry I’m late, I was talking with some of the birds that are migrating and they reported by the river that borders our jungle with Skull Rock Forest that they saw some lions fighting by the gorge!”
“Really,” Rune asked, “On our side?”
“No,” Coco replied, “Apparently this happened on the other side.”
“Then its none of your business.” Keruji retorted. His tone was more sarcastic than hostile. Rukio looked at Keruji then turned to Rune, “I guess he’s right, Rune,” Rukio responded, “If it didn’t happen on our side then we probably shouldn’t stick our noses in it.” Rune’s interest and curiosity turned to disappointment. He got up and walked to the entrance and looked around.
“Still, we should head to the river and check our borders,” Rune said, “better to be safe than sorry.”
“Yeah, plus we have to know if the river caused damage anywhere else.” Rukio agreed.
“Keruji and Rukio, you guys come with me,” Rune ordered, “We’ll check by the gorge, incase those lions come back. Coco and Toni, you guys can patrol our southern borders, you wont have to worry about any predators there. Mandy, you stay here incase we need you.” Mandy nodded, and Toni and Coco nodded and left. Keruji and Rukio followed Rune and they headed into the forest. Rune couldn’t help but wonder what they would find at the river.

Chapter 2

Rune and his group reached the gorge that bordered his jungle with the other jungle. The ground was hard rock, and the trees grew several feet away from the ledge. The ground had some dried mud. The gorge was slightly narrow, and the river was high, only about three lion’s tail lengths from the surface. The current was fast, and up ahead, rocks stuck out of the water. Rune looked around, everything seemed to be good. Rukio and Keruji spread out checking everything and smelling for other animal scents. Keruji walked along the river looking down. Rukio walked along the river in the opposite direction, sniffing the ground and the trees.
Rune climbed down the gorge and jumped in the river, the current swept him down. Rune then grabbed hold of a large rock that was sticking out of the water. He was losing his grip fast. Rune pulled himself up. Rukio and Keruji looked into the gorge to see Rune struggling to keep out of the water. They ran toward where Rune was and Keruji leaped over the gorge’s side and landed on the rock Rune was holding on to. Keruji bit down on Rune’s scarf, then he pulled him up. Rune felt his weight become lighter and he use the last of his strength to haul himself out of the river. With Keruji’s help, Rune was out of the water, but the rock was too small for the both of them. Before Rune could say anything,  Keruji leaped from that rock to another smaller rock sticking out, then leaped for the side of the gorge. He slide down the side, then climbed up again until finally he was on top. Rune did as he did then Rukio did the same. All three of them were now on the other side of the river. Keruji and Rukio turned to face Rune.
“You’re an idiot.” Keruji said.
“What’s wrong with you,” Rukio cried, “You could have been killed!” Rune looked at them, then his curiosity distracting him from what his friends were saying pulled him in the other direction. He turned to look at his surroundings.
“Your brother’s weird.” Keruji murmured to Rukio. Rukio shrugged it off and walked up to Rune. “Rune,” Rukio  whispered to Rune, “We shouldn’t be here. This isn’t our territory.” Rune didn’t take his eyes of the sight in front of him. Keruji turned and again walked along side the gorge smelling around. He looked down at the river, the further along the gorge he went, the higher the river got. With the distance came more and more rocks sticking out of the water. Keruji looked down at the rocks, at that moment, something caught his eye. He realized that it wasn’t a rock he was looking at, it was a body!
“Rune,” Keruji yelled, “Get over here, you might want to see this!” Rune looked toward Keruji, puzzled. He had just barely heard what Keruji was saying. He ran to Keruji with Rukio behind him. Rune walked up to Keurji, he was ready to ask him what was going on, when Keruji pointed his head in the direction he wanted him to see. Just teo lion’s tails length from the gorge’s surface the river ran slightly thin between many rocks sticking out of the water. The one rock Keruji pointed to was more flat than some of the others, and its surface was half out of the water. Rune gasp at what he saw on the rock. It was a lion cub about their age laying across the rock, dead.

Chapter 3

“Oh no,” Rukio cried, “what happened?”
“She probably fell in the river during the storm and drowned.” Keruji answered coldly.
“That’s terrible,” Rukio replied, “And no one was there to help her…” Rune looked at the still body. He jumped down into the gorge and leaped from rock to rock until he was on her rock. Keruji and Rukio followed him. Rune stood over the helpless body, he kneeled down and examined her closely. She has scars along her shoulder blades, some bite marks on her back and some open wounds on her legs. Rukio pressed her ears against her flank, “She’s alive!” Rukio announced, but then her hope turned to disappoinment when she continued to listen, “Barely, her breathing is weak, and she feels very cold.”  Then Keruji started to sniff her fur, then jerked up in disgust, “She smells of Claw!” Keruji exclaimed angrily.
“Who’s Claw?” Rukio asked, Rune looked at Keruji with the same puzzled look.
“Who’s Claw?” Keruji replied, “Claw is a blind, evil lion who just wants power. Ever since he went blind he became a blood thirsty murderer!”
“Then what should we do with her?” Rukio asked, “If she’s associated with Claw, then maybe we shouldn’t help her.” Rune looked down at the helpless lion, with disappointment.
“Throw her back in the river.” Keruji suggested with his irritable tone.
“NO!” Rune protested angrily, “We’re taking her back to our place, and were going to try to help her. I’m doing this with or with out your support. I will not stand by and let someone die.” With out waiting for a response, Rune hauled up the lioness’ body onto his back, and made his way to the gorge. He made it to the top then left with out waiting for Keruji and Rukio. Keruji and Rukio looked at each other, confused.

Later that evening, Rune entered his home entrance. He walked over to the nest where he usually sleeps and saw Mandy tending to the injured lioness they had helped earlier today. After Rune brought her back, he was Mandy to check her wounds since he knew about medicine. He had been taking care of her since. Mandy looked at Rune and smiled. “It looks like she’ll recover,” Mandy said to Rune, “Though I make no promises, she seems to be improving.” Rune felt a wave of relief. Mandy headed out the door, Rune thanked him then lied down next to the lioness. Keruji and Rukio in the other room watched.
“What’s he doing??” Rukio murmured, “He’s laying next to her.”
“Well,” Keruji replied in sarcasm, “Now we know the real reason he brought her here.”
“What do you mean”
“Isn’t it obvious?” Keruji smirked at Rukio then turned to the window. He leaped onto ledge and went to sleep. Rukio shrugged off his words and went to join him. She laid under the window where he slept.

The next morning, the sun’s rays shone through the entrance. The young lioness that Rune rescued yesterday had woke up. She lifted her head slowly, realizing she had no idea where she was, she turned and saw Rune sleeping next to her. Frightend by the stranger next to her she jumped out of the nest and growled at Rune. Rune awoke and saw her staring at him with hostility. He got up calmly and stretched, then faced her, “Good morning,”
“Good morning?” She replied, “Who are you? Why am I here?”
“I brought you here, you were half dead by the river.” Rune got up and started to walk toward her.
“Stay away from me!” She growled. Rune smiled at her strong will. He ignored her warning.
“Come on, is that anyway to treat someone who saved you?” Rune took a step closer, and she tried to swipe at him. Rune evaded the swipe and pressed forward. “Relax, I’m not going to hurt you. Why would I bring you here and help you just to hurt you?” She still eyed him carefully, Rune then took another step forward, and at that she lunged at him, but it was immediately cut short when the pain of her injuries struck and she fell to the floor. Rune rushed to her, picked her up by her scruff and pulled her to the nest.
“Your not strong enough to be moving that much,” Rune whispered to her. She tried to catch her breath then rested her head. Rune can see she was fearful of him and the surrounds. Rune talked to her softly. Rukio was watching from the other room.
“Now what’s going on?” Keruji asked,
“Shh, there just talking,” Rukio replied.
“Boring, I’m going for a walk, you coming?”
“Sure.” Rukio looked back at Rune again, then followed Keruji out the door.
Rune watched as Keruji and Rukio left, he knew they were watching. Once they were gone, her spoke again, “So what’s your name?” She turned to face him, she was still frightened of Rune, “…Maira.” she responded.
“Can you tell me what happened,” Rune asked, “Or  are you not ready to talk about it yet?” Maira didn’t respond to that question. She looked out the door, her eyes swirled with a history of sorrow. Rune felt a pang of guilt even asking. She put her head down, facing the door, still looking outside. Rune couldn’t help wonder what she was thinking about, he gave her head a comforting lick, then also put his head down and went to sleep.

Keruji and Rukio walked through the woods, they were headed to Malody’s cliff. Keruji crawled out of the bushes with Rukio behind. From a higher ledge of the cliff, a small lion cub looked down at them. “Who’s that?” Rukio asked. Keruji looked up the see the little cub. He was smaller than Keruji but he shared his color pattern. His fur was a mid-tone grey with a small brown tuft of hair on his head. His ears were big and they perked up when Keruji met eyes with him.
“Hey, Keruji’s back!” The little cub cried out.
“That’s my brother,” Keruji said to Rukio, “Koda, and he’s very annoying.”
Koda ran down the cliff side the meet his brother. “Hey brother! Where’ve you been?” Koda asked him, excitedly, “I thought you were going to take me with you into the jungle!”
“No,” Keruji protested, “Dad was suppose to take you, not me!”
“He told me you were!” Keruji tunred to Rukio with frustration, “do you see what I mean?” Rukio looked at him an chuckled. Keruji went ahead and started climbing the cliff, and Rukio followed behind, then Koda followed too.
They finally reached near the top when Keruru, Keruji’s father, appeared in front of them. “Good,” Keruru started, “I’m glad you here, We’re being threatend by the mountain lions again.”
“What?” Keruji exclaimed, “The mountain lions are back? I thought we saw the last of them? How can this be?”
“This time, they are being led by Claw.”

Chapter 4

“Claw?” Keruji replied, “But why?”
“I don’t know, but one passed by here yesterday morning and left a dead hawk in front of our den. It was almost as if it were a warning that they were coming back. The dead hawk was brought by the mountain lion, but was killed by Claw, he had his scent on it to let us know that he’s behind this.”
“I better go warn my brother!” Rukio exclaimed, then she fled from the mountain as fast as she could. Keruji felt a chill go down his spine. He remembered that it was the mountain lions who tried to steal their home and killed many of their family members including their uncle, Amji.

Rukio raced through the woods, behind she heard her named being called. When she turned to see, it was Coco following her.
“What’s the hurry?” Coco asked, “Did you find anything in the ares you patrolled?”
“Yes,” Rukio replied, “We have to hurry back home, Runes in danger!” Rukio and Coco hurried as fast as they can through the woods. “What kind of danger?” Coco asked.
“There’s a bloodthirsty lion lurking around the jungle, and one of his followers with Rune!” Rukio answered frantically, “He’s leading a pack of mountain lions that live outside the forest. A while back, the mountain lions raided and attacked Keruji’s family, now they want revenge. They might now stop there, if the over power them, they could come after us too!” Rukio and Coco reached the castle. It was quiet. Rukio stepped up to the stairs and called Rune. Coco flew up but before he reached the entrance, Rune stepped out on top. Rune wasn’t hurt, he looked fine from where he was standing. “What’s up, guys?” Rune responded.
“Rune,” Rukio called, “Come over here! You need to know something!” Rune looked down at Rukio in question, he turned his head and nodded, most likely to Maira, then turned and started walking down the stairs. Rukio sat down and Coco sat on Rukio’s shoulder. Rune came down the stairs and sat in front of Rukio. He gave her a nod allowing her to speak.
“Listen Rune,” Rukio started, “That lion has to go. The lion Keruji smelled on her, Claw-”
“Claw?” Coco interrupted, “Did you saw Claw?! Oh no!”
“Claw?” Rune asked.
“Wait, you know who he is, Coco? Rukio pointed out.
“Everyone knows Claw,” Coco replied nervously, “Claw was an old enemy of both Panja AND your father! Once, long ago, he tried to take over the jungle while Panja ruled. Panja fought Claw, then he blinded his right eye. He and Kimba were enemies, too. He tried to kill Kimba as revenge against Panja and failed. Though during the war with humans, Claw was at peace with Kimba, but that all changed when he challenged him again. Then Kimba took out his other eye. No one has seen Claw since.”
“How come Dad never told us this?” Rune asked.
“I guess it just never came up,” Coco replied, “We all just assume that he went into hiding, and that he’d be harmless, or even dead.”
“So that just increases the odds of him coming after us,” Rukio mumbled. “Yesterday we found a lion cub, our age, by the river. Rune brought her back and Mandy treated her wounds.” Rukio turned to Rune and continued, “Remember the mountain lions that attacked Keruji’s family a long time ago?” Rukio replied, “They’re coming back, and they’re being lead by Claw. The lion we found is his follower, she has to leave before she leads him here and kills us all!” Rune grew angrier with Rukio’s words. He turned and looked up at the castle’s entrance and looked down again.
“Rukio maybe right,” Coco said, “We can’t trust her is she’s following Claw.”
“I’ll go talk to her.” Rune replied. His done was low and depressed. All the news for him was too overwhelming. Rune turned away and walked up the stairs with his head drooping. Coco and Rukio followed Rune.
The three of them reached the top of the steps, Rune turned to Coco and Rukio, “You guys just stay here and listen,” He said, “Don’t come in here.” Rune’s tone againt them was slightly aggressive. Rukio was startled by what he said, but then she realized by now that Rune must be close enough to her that she’ll only talk to him. If Rukio and Coco go in with Rune, then she might be afraid to speak.
“Maira,” Rune spoke softly, Maira lifted her head and looked at Rune with a blank expression. Rune continued, “Can you please tell me your connection with Claw?”

Chapter 5

Rune’s question took Maira by surprise. Maira got up and slowly walked up to Rune and sat down in front of him.
“I used to live with Claw, and his follower Shaka.” She started, “When I was a cub, I lived with my pride out in the savannah. My father was the pride leader and I had two brothers, life was good. One day my father grew sick, and even though my mother tried to hide it from the other lions. One found out and challenged my father. He killed my father, and took over the pride, he threatened to my mother that he would kill the three of us. My mother sent me away so that I wouldn’t be killed. It was too late for my brothers. I traveled as far as I could. Just when I thought my life was over, Claw came along. He took me and said he’d take care of me. It was a lie. He enslaved me. He abused me if I didn’t do what he said. So I tried to run away. I remembered being attacked, then I woke up by you.” Rune was horrified by her story. Maira got up and walked up to the near window and looked out, as if she couldn’t bear her own story. “…I only stayed as long as I did because I had no where else to go.” She added. Rune saw her fear. He knew even though she was associated with Claw, she was not on his side.
“Well now you do,” Rune offered, “You can stay here with us.”
“What?” Maira asked.
“You can stay here with me and my sister,” Rune continued, “We run this forest. We took over after our parents died. Claw cant harm you here.” Maira smiled gratefully, and nodded.
Rukio and Coco, listening from another room were shocked at Rune’s offer and they looked at each other. “Is he crazy?” Rukio murmured, “We don’t know what she’s really like.”
“Now you have to be extra cautious!” Coco replied. Just as they looked up, Rune was already standing in front of them. Rukio and Coco jumped back in surprise.
“Hey guys,” Rune remarked, “Maira is going to stay with us for a while, I want you guys to meet her.” Rune’s tone was impatient. He knew what they were thinking, but he didn’t care. Rukio and Coco exchanged wary glances and followed Rune into the next room. Rukio and Coco stopped to sit and Rune took a seat next to Maira. Maira was worried, she was able to sense the distrust in the two. “Maira, this is my sister, Rukio,” Rune said, “And this is Coco, he is a friend of the family.” Rune turned to Rukio and Coco and his tone changed to a slightly annoyed yet unreadable. “Rukio and Coco,” He continued, “This is Maira.” The three exchanged neutral greeting nods. Coco flew up to Rune, “Now that we all know each other,” Coco started, “We should now find out what Claw is planning.”
Rune got up and walked to the entrance with his head down, thinking. “I wonder,” Rune said, “Why would he recruit the mountain lions?”
“He’s planning a hostile take over.” Maira replied. Her tone was shaky, everyone looked at her in question, she continued, “If this is Panja’s Jungle, then this is where it’ll happen. He told us.” Rukio went up to Maira,
“Maira,” Rukio spoke calmly, “Tell us what you know about this plan. If we know what he’s going to do, then maybe we can stop it before it happens.”
“He didn’t say much,” Maira replied, “He told us he wanted revenge, and that he was going to take back his jungle.”
“So he still hasn’t let that go,” Coco added, “He just wont quit.”
“The day before he attacked me, he met a mountain lion,” Maira continued, “After that he told us he was going to use them to get what he wants.”
“Then we have to find him and stop him!” Rune rushed for the door, Maira leaped up and ran in front of Rune, “Wait!” she cried.
“Maira,” Rune protested, “He has to be stopped!”
“No Rune,” Maira argued, “He’ll kill you!”
“You don’t understand, it’s my job to protect this forest, and everyone in it. I promise, I wont die. Besides, he’s blind, we have a huge advantage over him”
“Its not that easy. Claw doesn’t need his eyes to see you. He hears every movement, feels every vibration on the ground, and scents all fear. He’s trained himself to be lethal with out his eyes.”
“Then you guys cant confront yet,” Coco added, “He’ll no every move you do! Its impossible.” Rune looked at Coco, then to Maira and Rukio. All their expressions were of lost hope. Its as is they lost the battle before it started. Rune felt a rush of disappointment. What was the next move they needed to take? Just before Rune got up, a loud cry outside caught all their attention.
“Help,” The voice from outside called, Help!!! I’m being attacked!”

Chapter  6

“That’s sounds like Toni!” Coco called out. Rune, Rukio and Coco ran for the door, but they saw nothing. They heard the cry again, but if came from further in the woods. Rune ran forward, “I’m coming, Toni!” he yelled as he ran through. Rukio and Coco were close behind. When they reached the scene, Toni was surrounded by three mountain lions. Their fur was dark brown and their eyes glowed red. Their teeth shone white as the were hunched over ready to strike Toni. Toni stood in the center trembling in fear. Rune ran forward and struck the first mountain lion to the ground, Rukio attacked the second lion and Rune went for the third. The lions didn’t fight back. They laid on the ground where they were thrown. They looked up at Rune and Rukio, and smiled, grimly. Rune stood up the them angrily.
“Okay,” Rune growled, “Who are you, and what do you think your doing?” The lions looked at each other and chuckled. Rune looked at them confused, what were they laughing at? Was this all a set up? The lions got up and they ran through the woods “Hey, come back here!” Rune growled then he chased after them. Rukio walked up to Toni and spoke calmly, “Are you okay, Toni?” Toni nodded, though he was still shaking, “What happened?” Coco asked,
“I was on my way to you guys,” Toni replied, “I wanted to give my report on the river from yesterday. Then they just came out of nowhere and attacked me.”
“Those must be the same mountain lions that are teaming up with Claw.” Rukio added.
“CLAW????” Toni shouted “He’s back!! I thought he was gone for good!!!” Coco flew up to Toni and explained the whole situation.
“We have to catch up to Rune before something happens,” Rukio said. Just as they turned toward the direction they wanted to go to, they heard a faint rustling in the bushes.
“The mountain lions are back!!” Toni and Coco shouted, their bodies trembled and the jumped behind Rukio. Rukio turn to the bushes and growled. The rustling grew louder. Rukio was just about ready to pounce when a familiar face appeared in front of them. It was Maira.
Rukio, Coco and Toni let out a sigh of relief, but Rukio became slightly annoyed. Maira stepped forward. She was gasping for breath. He body looked frail and week.
“What are you doing here?” Rukio asked her.
“Please,” Maira replied, “I want to help.”  Maira struggled as she spoke. Her injuries were brining her down. Rukio was annoyed by her arrogance, and her distrust for Maira only fueled it. But as she watched her, Rukio couldn’t help but feel some pity for her. She walked up to Maira and leaned her against her shoulder. “Okay,” Rukio said, “You can come, but your still too injured to fight.” Maira nodded in agreement. And the small group took off following Rune’s trail.

Rune ran as fast as he possibly could. Rune could see the mountain lions a few feet ahead of him but he was getting tired. Up ahead he could see light. The end of the forest was close. He ran faster. Rune leaped into the forest’s border. He was out of the woods. In front of him was almost the same as where he found Maira. The river bordered the two forests. Only the river was level with the ground, there was no gorge. Rune saw in front on him, the three mountain lions he chased, standing next to them was a black panther and behind them was a blind lion. He was huge, but a little scrawny, his fur was matted has if he never took care of himself. His face was full of tiny scars, but the two most noticeable ones were the ones that claimed his vision.
“So you most be Kimba’s son,” Claw said.
“And you must be Claw.” Rune replied.
“Yes, yes. So you have heard of me.”
“I know everything about you and your plans!”
“Oh really? I doesn’t matter now, you can’t stop me, son of Kimba!”
“My name is Rune!” moments later, Rukio appeared out of the trees with Coco, Toni and Maira  far behind. Maira saw Claw and took a step back in fear.
“Maira, is that you,” Claw asked, his tone was dark. “I should of known that you’d be a traitor.” Maira froze. Claw faced Rukio, Coco, and Toni.
“I smell all of your fear scent” He retorted, “this shouldn’t be to hard. Kill them all!”

Chapter 7

The mountain lions, and the black panther race toward Rune. Coco and Toni ran for the woods. Rune was shoved to the ground by one of the three mountain lions. He was pinned to the ground, and the lion sank his teeth on Rune’s shoulder, Rune growled in pain. One of the mountain lions chased after Toni and Coco. Rukio went after them and stopped them from gong further, allowing Toni and Coco to escape unharmed. Another mountain lion joined in against Rukio, they both had her pinned. Maira jumped on one’s back and bit down on his neck. The lion cried in pain, he leaped in the air with Maira still on his back then rolled on the ground and she then let go.
Rune swung his back leg tripping the mountain lion to the ground, which forced him to let go of his hold on him. Rune got up but was quickly pinned again by the back panther. “Fight as hard as you want son of Kimba,” Shaka retorted, “You will never stop us!”
“We’ll see about that!!” Rune growled. He lunged his head into Shaka’s neck. Shaka gagged for breath and fell over. Rune bit him on the back of his neck, then with all his strength he flung him to the side. One mountain lion fled, he crossed to river and ran into the other forest. Not long after, another one followed him. They were winning the fight against them. “He’s getting away!” Rukio yelled. Rune turned around and saw Claw running away. Rune turned to chase Claw, but Shaka came again from behind and shoved him down. Rukio was fighting the last mountain lion. Maira watched Rune and Rukio fight, but she can see that they were stuck. She had to do something. Without thinking she got up and chased Claw. Rune slashed Shaka’s face with his claws. He saw Maira going after Claw. But her injuries were getting her, forcing her to slow down.
Claw turned around, he leaped in the air and landed on Maira. He pressed his large heavy paw down on Maira’s neck, slowly choking her. “Are you ready to die?” Claw growled, “I do not let traitors live!” Maira was losing breath fast. Just before she was about to lose consciousness, Rune leaped over Claw. He landed on his back and bit down on his shoulders. Claw released his hold on Maira and swung the paw at Rune. Rune flew the ground, and Claw redirected his attentions to Rune. Maira took a deep breath and laid still on the ground.
Rune got up and lunged at Claw. Claw dodged him. Rune tried his attack again. But Claw dodged again. Rune was getting tired, his attacks were started to slow down. He looked at Maira who was laying helplessly on the ground and Rukio who was fighting the mountain lion and Shaka. Claw was coming toward him. Rune prepared for his attack.
But instead of attacking, he came up close to Rune and whispered in his ear: “I’m going to take back this jungle. This jungle is rightfully mine. It was taken from me by Panja and Kimba. I will not lose it again.”
“What are you saying?” Rune asked. Exhaustion clouded his voice. He couldn’t keep a strong stance.
“I’m giving you a chance,” Claw continued, “Surrender, and I’ll let you and your friends live. I’ll even give you time to get all your loved ones out of the jungle too. What do you say?” Rune hesitated. He knew he couldn’t give up the jungle. But his friends lives were in danger. He stood up to Claw, “No,” Rune answered, “This wasn’t your jungle before, and it isn’t yours now. It will never be yours!” Claw became furious with Rune’s response. He lunged his fangs at Rune and bit down on his back. Rune cried in agony, blood dripped down from his back. Claw lifted Rune’s body and flung him in the air, and as his body came down, Claw whipped his paw at him and knocked him forward. After Rune hit the ground, he attempted getting up, but then fell again.
“Since you don’t want to make this easy for me,” Claw growled furiously, “I will make this difficult for you!” Claw smacked Rune with the back of his paw. Then Claw stepped on Rune’s face.
“First I’ll killed all you’re your friends,” Claw continued, “Then, I’ll come back and take what is rightfully mine. Once I’ve gained full control, I’ll kill you slowly!” Rune became angered at his words, but he was too weak to fight. Claw picked up Rune and threw him again. Claw was coming back again. Rune started to lose his vision. It was getting blurry, he was ready to pass out. Claw stood over him. He saw him open his mouth. Claw was about to pick him up again. Rune shut his eyes.
But nothing happened. Rune heard Claw scream in angered. Rune looked up, Claw was being attacked! Rune couldn’t see who it was. One of his friends on Claws back, biting his ears. Claw struggled to get the attacker off of his back, but the attacker was persistent and strong.
Rune struggled to get up. He had to know who was doing this. Claw ran in circles. He couldn’t hold still the attacker was being shadowed the sun. Rune focused his vision. Claw finally threw the attacker off his of back. The attacker hit the ground and stayed there for a moment. Rune was finally able to see who it was.
It was Maira.

Chapter 8

“Maira!” Rune yelled.
“Maira got up and looked at Claw. Rune looked at Claw, Claw was screaming in pain. When Rune looked at him closer, his saw his ear was bleeding heavily. Maira had ripped Claw’s ear off. Claw was furious. Rukio came up to Rune, “Rune,” she said, “are you okay?” Rune got up slowly and face Rukio: “Yeah, never better.” Rune smiled at her, he turned to see behind her and that the last mountain lion and Shaka had fled. Rune and Rukio looked toward Claw, Maira was still trying to attack him. Rune got up and tried to run, but he fell. He was too tired to move. Rukio ran to his side.  Maira was down again, this time she didn’t get back up. Claw was closing in on her.
“Maira look out!” Rune shouted, but Maira didn’t respond she was too weak to move. Them a roar of another lion echoed through them from behind. Claw turned around, and perked his ears. Rune and Rukio turned around and was shocked to see it was Keruru!
Keruru and Keruji stepped forward. Keruji ran to Rukio and Rune. “I thought you guys might be here.” he remarked.
Keruru went up to Claw. “I think you’ve done enough today.” He growled. Keruru lifted his paw with claws unsheathed threatening an attack. Claw lunged at Keruru, but Keruru swung his large paw and knocked Claw to the ground. Keruru didn’t wait, he charged after Claw while he was down. He grabbed Claw by the back of his neck and flug him into the river. The river was shallow, Claw got up and faced toward Keruru. Kerur roared loud in anger, and Claw took a step back.
“This isn’t over!” Claw growled, “I will be back to take back my jungle!” after his words he turned and fled into the forest.
“Yeah, we’ll see about that.” Keruru retorted. Keruru then turned around and looked at Maira. Maira struggled to get up. She got up and Keruru started to walk to Rune and Rukio. “Thanks for saving us Keruru” Rune said.
“Yeah,” Rukio added, “I don’t know what we would of done with out you.”
“Be killed, that’s what,” Keruru replied, angrily, “What’s with you fools? You shouldn’t blindly run into battle like that!”
“Shut up, dad!” Keruji retorted.
“Stay out of this!” Keruru growled, “These cubs have a lot to learn. You have to learn about your opponent before you race into battle like that. Fools.” Keruru started to walk away. Rune looked back and watched as Keruru left.
“Keruji,” Rukio asked, “How did you guys know we were here?”
“I was coming back to mean you guys when I saw two mountain lions crossing the river from my cliff,” Keruji replied, “I told my dad and he said we should go check it out.” Maira walked up to Rune and nuzzled him. Rune looked up at her, “Thanks for saving me” He murmured.
“Are you okay?” she asked.
“Yeah I’m fine,” he replied. Rune looked back again. He thought hard about everything. Maira sat next to him.
“Rune,” Rukio said, “Lets go home.”

Rune sat on the porch of the castle, looking toward the setting sun. Rukio, Maira and Keruji were inside, chatting about the fight they had with Claw earlier. Mandy had just finished checking Rukio and Maira’s wounds. Keruji just stayed and watched. Coco and Toni were also inside. Rukio came outside to see Rune, “Is something bothering you?” She asked. Rune didn’t answered. He could only hear the words of Keruru echoing in his mind. Rune got up and started walking down the stairs. “Where are you going?” Rukio asked.
“I’ll be back,” Rune replied, “I need to take care of something.” Rune walked through the woods.
Moments later, he found himself at Malody’s Cliff. Rune climbed it until he reached the main den. Keruru was standing outside. He saw Rune approaching and he met him at the den. “What is it?” Keruru asked.
“Can you train me?” Rune asked, “I want to learn to fight.”
“Train you?” Keruru replied, “Okay then, meet me here at dawn.”

Chapter 9

Several miles outside of the forest. A large pack of mountain lions were traveling. There were hundreds of them. They were crossing the desserts. The sky was orange with the sun’s setting. A straggler behind fell to the ground. “Get up fool!” The leading lion growled, “We don’t have all night!”
“I’m sorry sir,” The straggler replied, “I’m so thirsty, I cant move.”
“We should really rest for tonight sir,” a follower added. “The heat is strong and we may lose half of us.”
“You fools!” The leading lion growled, “We have to meet Claw, tonight! If this guy is what he says he is, we cant get the turf we had always dreamed of! Besides, nightfall is coming, it’ll be easier to travel without the sun.”
“But we’re tired now,” The straggler protested, “We should rest while the sun is going down, then continue after.”
“I never said we were going to rest!” Retorted the leader, “We don’t have time to rest, you either come with use, or stay here and die!” The other lions looked at each other with confusion. They were all exhausted from their travels, but they all desired the mountain they lost the fight for. The straggler stood up again, and forced his pace with the group. The group moved on again. “Listen everyone,” The leader announced, “We still have a long way to go. Some of our pride is already there. I was told that not only will we get this mountain, but a whole jungle!”
“How do you know we can trust this guy?” A follower asked.
“I’m not to worried about that,” the leader replied, “If he cannot be trusted, we’ll simply kill him once we’ve learned his plan. There’s no way he could out number us. This is a win win situation we got here.” All the mountain lion roared at his words. They were making victory chants. The leader looked at his pack and smiled, grimly: “Soon we will all rule the forest! We will be unstoppable!”
As they walked forward, above them, a vulture flew over them. “Sir!” a follower yelled, “What should we do about that thing flying above us?
“Ignore it,” The leader replied, “Once it sees that none of us is dead, it’ll go away.” the vulture flew down, and stopped in front of the leader. “You must be the guests Claw is expecting,” said the vulture, “I will lead to him.”
“Fine then,” The leader replied.
The vulture flew in the air and the mountain lions followed in his direction. A few miles later, the straggler from before fell to the ground again. “What now!” yelled the leader.
“Sir,” a follower replied, “Taka is dead!”
“What?” The leader replied, “How?”
“Probably from the heat sir.” Another follower added.
“Well then,” the leader said, “If he’s not strong enough to take the heat, then hes not strong enough for this, lets go.”
“What if its an omen!” another follower added.
“Maybe we shouldn’t trust that vulture,” another follower replied.
“Shut up,” The leader complained, “I don’t want to hear any more of that!”
The vulture chuckled to himself: now I have a meal for later today must be my luck day, ha ha.

Chapter 10

In Claws cave, Claw sat a few feet from the entrance. Next to him was Shaka, and behind him were the three mountain lions from earlier. Night set in fully, and the vulture flew in the cave and landed in front of Claw. “They’re here, Claw,” The vulture said, “All of them.”
“Good,” Claw replied, “Bring them in.” Only the first few mountain lions entered. The rest laid down outside. The leader approached Claw right away and said: “Tell us the plan, Claw. How are we doing this?”
“The forest is lead by a white lion cub named Rune. He has some cubs that are following him. They are only cubs, we can handle them.” Replied Claw.
“So once they’re out of the way, we control the forest?” The leader asked.
“Not quite,” Claw replied, “The barbary lions still have a strong hold on the cliff. They are my main concern.”
“Okay, so we’ll just take them out first.” The leader added.
“The barbary lions will not give up so easily.” Shaka said. “We’ll have to take them out by force. Their numbers have increased over the years.”
“Listen” The leader replied, “Let me lead the attack on the barbarys! We can take him out. With all do respect, Claw, your blind. You might be at a serious disadvantage! Let me be leader of this!” Shaka looked at Claw, he tried to read his facial expression, he wasn’t sure how Claw would react to that proposal. He knew that Claw wouldn’t let it happen. But what was Claw going to do?
“You want to lead the attack on the barbary lions?” Claw asked.
“Yes,” the leader replied, “I am a leader after all.” It is my job.”
“But I’m leader of this invasion. I will decide what we do.”
“You are not the leader of my pride, Claw! You can tell us what you want but you cannot order around my pride like their yours, I’m their leader!” Claw nodded. He paused and faced Shaka. Shaka didn’t know what Claw was expressing. But he knew that this wasn’t what he wanted.
Claw looked toward the mountain lions’ leader again. “I understand,” He said, “They are yours and no one else has control but you?”
“I’m sorry, Claw,” The leader replied, “I didn’t mean any harshness, I get a little edgy when it comes to my leadership. You know about this more than I do, you can be leader until we get to the mountain where the barbary lions are, but from there, I continue my leadership. Deal?” The mountain lion leader’s tone was untrusting and had a hint of sarcasm. Shaka looked at Claw, and Claw had a look of certainty.
Claw smiled at the leader. “Okay then,” He started, “Then we need to discuss something. Away from the others, this is between leaders. Come with me.”
“Okay,” replied the leader. The leader’s tone changed, he felt that Claw understood his terms. He rushed behind Claw. The pack of mountain lions watched, Even Shaka watched, and wondered.
Claw and the mountain lions’ leader disappeared into the shadows. They were no longer in their sites. Shaka turned to face the mountain lions. Just as he was about to speak, a loud roar came from behind them. The mountain lions looked up and Shaka turned his head around fast to see what had happened. Moments later, Claw appeared from the shadows with the body of the mountain lion leader’s body dangling from his mouth. His throat was cut clean. Killed instantly.
Claw threw the body in front of the pack of mountain lions, they all gasped in fear.
“Listen up,” Announced Claw, “From this night on, I am your new leader! You will do as I say! And I say we’re are going to take back my jungle forever!”