THE CHANGE by John Burkitt Part Six of Chronicles of the Pride Lands

SCENE 1: THE PRESENTATION

Mufasa and Elanna nuzzled each other proudly as their new son Simba was gently picked up by the old mandrill Busara and held up before the panoply of Pride Land life. Zebras neighed and whinnied, bowing low. Elephants trumpeted and raised their trunks on high. All of nature stopped to take in the wonder as a shaft of light from the heavens annointed the young prince. Busara brought young Simba to his heart and kissed him on the brow.

Taka and Sarabi were happy, and not the least bit jealous. Their rulers were the twin daughters that cuddled against their adoring mother. Young Uzuri, who was very fond of Sarabi, had been asked to sit by them during the presentation. Shaka and Avina sat to the back but still in a place of honor.

When the light from heaven died away, most of the animals went back to their homes, all except the honored Incosis who came to bow their faces to the ground before the new prince.

Amarakh of the hyenas was first. She knelt before Simba and then before King Mufasa. “I touch your mane.”

“I feel it.”

Then she went to her real heart’s desire. Putting her paws on Sarabi’s shoulder, she kissed her and nuzzled her. “My old friend.”

Sarabi reached out with a large paw and gently stroked Amarakh. “I will never forget your devotion, and neither will my people.”

Khemoki of the Zebras cleared his throat very indiscretely. Amarakh knew it was time to move aside and let someone else have a turn.

Silently and unseen, Minshasa stepped forward and looked closely at Taka’s twin daughters, then gazed into his unmarked eyes which shone with love and beauty. “See, Mano! Didn’t I tell you it would work??”

A beautiful white lion came to her side and nuzzled her. “So far, old girl. I’ll grant you that your idea had some merit. However....”

“No howevers. It’s working out beautifully.”

“So far.”