Coalition leader

“I’ve been trying to find her for two nights now. We must talk about how you did what I could not. But first… Tell me, Zephyrus. What happens now?” Mchana said calmly as he sat down right across the kill. The intensity of the large lion’s stare felt as if it could crush Zeph. Would have crushed Zeph the cub. But that wasn’t who he was anymore.

Despite his trembling limbs, Zeph made up his mind. If he couldn’t run from this, he would face Mchana like he had Usiku. Only this wasn't a contest of fangs and claws. This was… a test. Uncertainly he looked over at his little sister, but Nzuri turned her head away, avoiding his gaze. That was probably for the best.

Steeling himself, Zeph met Mchana's gaze. He fought past the intense urge to run away again, and kept eye contact. He knew the answer to this test and he was going to pass it. Gritting his teeth, he spoke “As coalition leader… You have first rights to this kill”.

The large lion grinned a toothy smile. “Very good. Consider my rights satisfied. Talk to me after you have fed”. It was permission and dismissal all in one. Zeph looked stunned and confused as Mchana turned around and settled himself a small distance away, gazing out towards the dried banks of the river.

A Lion's Fealty

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A Lion's Fealty is an ongoing animal fantasy web serial featuring talking lions in a low-fantasy alternative universe, intended for young adult / mature audiences. It is a learning project, and therefore not in any way monetized.