Prologue

An old mandrill baboon held a dark lion cub over the animals of the Pride Lands as they chirped, hooted, and trumpeted out in honor of the new prince. Back behind the baboon, two lions sat side by side, pride rushing over them. The ceremony ended and the old baboon carried the cub back to his proud parents.

"Here you are, King Kovu, Queen Kiara." He said, gently laying the young lion on the ground.

"Thank you, Rafiki." The dark colored king yawned.

"What was his name again?" Rafiki asked.

"Kimba." Kiara replied. "Named after Kovu and Dad."

"You mean you and your father, right?" Kovu corrected her.

"No." She grinned affectionately. "You and Dad."

"Hey!" He swatted her playfully.

Rafiki rolled his eyes as he watched them. "You will certainly make great parents." He joked.

"Rafiki!" They roared together teasingly.

The baboon shrugged and let out a cackle of laughter.