It had been exactly four weeks since the Guard and Night Pride had found out when Kiongozi was attacking. They were now gathered in the Tree of Life, making their final plans.
"Two more days," Tumaini said. "The eclipse will be at night, and the sun will be covered. No doubt they are trying to use the cover of darkness."
"I can't see well in the dark," Shauku said. "Does this mean I'm out?"
"No way," Tumaini laughed. "We're gonna need all the help we can get. You're still in."
"Good," Shauku said. "What's the plan?"
"We're going to split into the groups," Aasha explained. "The Night Pride will be with the Tree of Life Inhabitants, staying behind."
"Tumaini!" Kion called form outside. "Kiara and I need to talk to you and Mahali!"
"Coming!" Tumaini called back. "Aasha, explain everything to them."
She and Mahali walked over to Kion and Kiara.
"What is it?" Tumaini asked.
"Kiara and I were talking, and we realized something," Kion explained.
"Since Nguvu is part of the Night Pride, and you are the second born of the royal family," Kiara continued.
"Can I say no?" Tumaini asked.
"Unfortunately, no," Kion said. "You have to become Queen of the Pride Lands. It's your destiny."
"However, Kovu and I will let you choose who you want your King to be," Kiara said.
"One bright side," Tumaini muttered. She talked towards Kion and Kiara. "That's why you wanted Mahali here."
"Yes," Kion said. "We both know how you feel about each other."
"Only if Mahali agrees," Tumaini said. "I'm not going to force him to do anything he doesn't want to. Mahali?"
"Of course," Mahali said. "Once we get out of this."
"Thanks," Tumaini smiled at the leopard. She turned to the two lions. "Can we have some time alone?"
"Of course," Kion left with Kiara.
Tumaini turned towards Mahali. It was night, and a clear sky.
"So, uh, I guess we're doing this," Mahali said. "So, how does this work?"
"I honestly have no idea," Tumaini responded.
[Tumaini]
We've been through so much together
[Mahali]
But we know we're far from done
[Tumaini]
All our adventures and fun
[Tumaini & Mahali]
Have only just begun
I feel at home with you
It doesn't matter where I am,
Just that I'm by your side
In that land
YOU ARE READING
The Lion Guard: A New Hope (#2)
AventuraKion, Fuli, and the rest of the Guard have had offspring, but they've all been exiled from the Pride Lands. Their cubs are the only hope.
