Taka ran from his father, from Pride rock; away from the halls that use to offer him protection, but he saw now as only hell. Ever since his mother died, his father hadn't been quite right, but to go this far shocked everyone in the Pride. The argument between Taka and Ahadi rose to violence. With blood trailing behind him Taka ran as far as his legs to take him. Soon exhaustion set in and he collapsed in pain and tears.

He imagined his mother; oh how he missed her. She would know what to do. And like from a dream she appeared in his mind.

"Taka darling, what's wrong?" Her voice rang softly through his ears. But what would normally be a welcome dream brought him nothing but despair.