1. The Gladrags Legacy Chapter 12- Hakuna Matata Or, In Which we finally get to the end of the generation! This is the last chapter of the Lion King generation. However, we still have lots of plotty business to get through first. When we left, Simba had fled from university, full of shame after he betrayed his sister Shenzi. Scar has taken over the legacy- and we don’t know whether he’ll father the next generation. I originally envisioned this chapter to be around 40 slides long... It’s safe to say that I went a bit overboard. But please stick at it!

2. “The scandal has shocked the nation-” “-hasn’t been seen for three days-” “-Anti werewolf protesters-” “-Where is Shenzi Gladrags?”

3. The room was freezing. The cold stone floor was hard and uncomfortable, but Shenzi had nowhere else to lie. She hadn’t slept for at least two days... At least she thought it was two days. With nothing to do but stare at the ceiling, it was hard to tell how much time passed. No matter how hard she tried though, she couldn’t drift off. It was maddening.

4. “Hey you,” said one of the guards. Shenzi couldn’t tell which one was called Ed and which one was Banzai. They always seemed to go everywhere together. “What? What is it?” “We’ve brought you your evening meal doggy.” They dropped a dog bowl onto the floor, allowing the food to spill out over Shenzi’s clothes. “She’s not eating that!” yelled Shenzi. “That’s disgusting! Dog food!” “What, you’re a dog aintcha? You werewolves are all the same. Never happy with what you’ve got.”

5. “Please, you don’t have to do this. Let Shenzi go and I’m sure the police would make some sort of deal with you.” The guards cackled, hyena like smirks on their faces. “Shenzi misses her family!” “Poor, lonely werewolf girl. Always so alone. It’s what your kind deserve.” They walked away, cackling still, slamming the door behind them. Shenzi couldn’t control her emotions at the best of times, but when she was a werewolf it was almost impossible. All her emotions heightened, whether that was happiness, despair or, in this case, anger. She growled, baring her teeth, and curled back up into a ball to try and get to sleep.

6. Caractacus unlocked the door to his house, sighing deeply. It had not been a good day. Dunstan rushed out of bed and down the stairs, practically hurling himself at Caractacus for a hug. “Where have you been? I’ve been so worried!” “They wouldn’t let me on the bus,” said Caractacus. “They said they wouldn’t let the father of a murderer on.” Dunstan’s face fell. “Oh.” “It’ll pass. Don’t worry about it. They’re just angry- soon they all will have forgotten and we’ll be able to live our lives in peace.” “Be quiet! Zazu’s trying to sleep. A total stranger spat in her hair as we walked by so we had to rush home. She’s upset, naturally, but she’s washed it out and gone to bed.”

7. Caractacus took Dunstan in his arms. Rubbing his back gently, he whispered in Dunstan’s ear “I love you.” “I love you too.”

8. Zazu was about to get into bed, when there was a faint tap on the door. “Who is it?” “It’s me.” Zazu’s eyes narrowed- Scar. Ever since Scar had taken over the legacy, he’d been staying in their house. In Shenzi’s room. It was all part of his sick sense of humour. “Go away.” She spat. He came in anyway. “Don’t shout Zazu, it is unbecoming of a pretty young girl like you.” Zazu felt extremely uncomfortable, which wasn’t helped by the fact Scar stood in his underwear grinning maliciously at her. “How many times do I have to tell you, stay out my room.” “Oh Zazu, if you wish to stay in this house you’ll abide by my rules, not your own.” “This house isn’t yours, Scar.”

9. “I’m the legacy heir now. I control all legacy property, and that includes the house.” “I’d rather live on the streets than in here anyway,” she snarled, and turned to leave. Scar grabbed her arm. “If you go I’ll throw your whole family out. And without any money, where would your parents go?” Zazu hesitated. She wrenched her arm free, and Scar smiled. “You’re a pig.” “I admire a girl with passion Zazu, and you have it in abundance.” “Get away from me you creep.” Scar raised his arm to stroke her cheek, but Zazu slapped it away.

10. Scar chuckled. “Fine then. Have it your way.” He was still smiling, but his eyes flashed with anger. He left, closing the door quietly. Zazu sighed, and sat on her bed. She was filled with all these emotions that she wasn’t allowed to express. She was the calm one, whilst others could shout and scream and cry as much as they liked there had to be someone to pick up the pieces. But all she could think of was how much she missed Simba.

11. “C’mon boys, it’s closing time.” Simba looked down into the bottom of his glass, morose. Since he’d tumbled into the bar earlier that evening he’d been sat, ordering more and more whisky. He downed the booze quickly and turned to go, but stumbled embarrassingly to the floor. The barman chuckled.

12. “Let me help you there.” He sprang forward and pulled the intoxicated Simba onto one of the grubby bar stools. “You best sober up quick, ‘cause I have to close soon.” “Why? I don’t have anything to live for.” Despite his befuddled state, Simba’s voice was clear. The barman sighed. He was used to this. “I know life seems bad now, but everything seems better after a good night’s sleep.” “Nowhere to go.” The barman hesitated. “Well... I suppose you could stay here. For just one night. I mean, Jimmy has to stay here, what with that homeless man having tricked him out his house.” “Tha’srigh’!” Jimmy slurred. Whilst Simba was an unhappy drunk, Jimmy certainly wasn’t. “Le’s have a party!”

13. “Thanks. But I’ll find somewhere.” “If you’re sure.” The barman cleaned a glass with a filthy rag. “So what’s your story then? Everyone has one, otherwise they wouldn’t be over on this side of town.” “I’m just a regular guy. I did something bad. I’m not gonna go into it but it was terrible and I can’t face my family now.” “I’m sure it couldn’t have been too bad.” “Oh it was. I got involved with some powerful men. Scary men.” “Anything I can help with?” He pointed towards the cricket bats hanging on the wall behind him. They had a lot of dark, unusual stains on them. “I’m pretty good with these.” “I’m sure you are.” Simba sighed. “If you’re feeling down, why don’t you come onto the roof with us? Looking at the stars really clears your head, and it’s a beautiful night tonight.”

14. “You know, my grandpa was an alien. He lived in space, until he married my grandma.” “That’s cool. Were you an alien, before you...” The barman trailed off. “No.” “I always used to think they were fireflies. Fireflies that got stuck in the sky.” “Someone told me that the great legacy heirs of the past are up there, watching over us all.” There was a brief silence. “Yursayin’ a bunch o’ dead legacy heirs ar’ watchin’ average joesli’ me?” said Jimmy, a puzzled expression on his face. He then burst out laughing. “Tha’s crazy!”

15. The barman laughed too. “Haha, you’re funny, man!” Simba half heartedly joined in laughing. “Who told you something like that?! What mook made that up?!” he continued, tears of mirth in his eyes. Simba’s face fell. “Yeah... Pretty stupid, huh?” The barman wiped his eyes. “Aw, you’re killing me Simba!” “I think I better go.” Simba stood up, wobbled, and headed towards the door, without saying a word to either of them. Just before he closed the door behind them, he heard Jimmy say “Was i’ somethin’ I said?”

16. Simba sighed, and walked away from the bar. He knew he’d just end up there tomorrow, but for now he’d find his usual spot under the slide at an abandoned park to curl up and go to sleep. He was not however aware of a young boy, far too young to be allowed out near a bar alone at this hour rummaging in the bins outside.

17. He saw Simba leave, went back to the rubbish then did a double take. He remembered the photo that Dr. Gladrags had showed him, of him and his family at the beach. His eyes lit up under his immaculate eye makeup. “Simba? He’s- he’s here? He, he- he’s here!”

18. Meanwhile, Caractacus was dealing with problems of his own. The only sound that could be heard was the chirp of nearby crickets. The night wind rustled through Caractacus’s hair. “Not again.” he sighed.

19. It wasn’t the first time and it wouldn’t be the last. At least it was only a splatter of paint, and not something obscene. The worst time had been on the front of the house, where someone had sprayed “Murderers” and “Werewolves out” over the front door. They had had a hell of a time getting a person to clean it up as well, because no-one wanted to be seen going into the house of a “murderer”. But Caractacus couldn’t take it anymore.

20. He wandered inside. Dunstan hadn’t seen it yet, and he was still in bed. He took the phone off the receiver, took a deep breath, and dialled 999. A few seconds went by, then “Which service do you require?” “The police.” A few more seconds went by. “Hello sir, what is your problem?” “My house has been graffitied. Could you send someone over in the morning to take a look?” “Of course. Terrible isn’t it, these young hoodlums, going round defacing private property.” Caractacus didn’t answer. “What’s your address?” “Oh, it’s 42 Elm drive.” The man on the end of the line hesitated. “That’s the legacy house.”

21. “Yes, that’s right.” Caractacus began to worry. “I’m sorry sir, we don’t help law breakers.” Caractacus felt a shiver of anger. “My daughter couldn’t control herself, and you have a duty to protect everyone.” “I’m sorry sir.” “Please,” Caractacus begged. “You have to stop them, we’re being terrorised in our own home!” “That daughter of yours should have thought of that, shouldn’t she?” The line went dead. Caractacus stared at the wall, then sighed. “Well, that’s it then...”

22. The next day came, and Scar was... Unsatisfied. He could ignore the stony silence from Caractacus and Dunstan, and the glares from Timon, but he couldn’t stand the constant insults to his ego from Zazu. Zazu... She intrigued him. She wasn’t afraid of him at all... But this wasn’t the point. He had thought that eventually the family would grow to resent Simba for leaving... But they just seemed to miss him more. Why? He was a much better leader than Simba could ever have been. He sighed. “Why am I not loved?” he muttered to himself. “I’m every inch an heir. But every time I see this damn family they’re whispering about me. Glaring. Shouting. Nonsense, they’re just sore about Simba. They adore me. Yes, they adore me.”

23. “Hey boss!” yelled Banzai. “Oh, what is it?” Scar sighed again. “We’ve got a bone to pick with you.” “Spit it out then.” “This family’s accounts are complex. They’re all stored in some super high security bank. There are dragons guarding their vault!” “So?” “So, we’re running out of money! We can’t get at their accounts unless you’re actually family, boss. We’re screwed!” “It’ll be fixed eventually.” said Scar complacently.

24. “The bills are coming in now, Scar. It’s dinnertime and there ain’t no stinkin’ entrees! We can’t afford to pay ‘em!” Scar rose from his chair. “You and your petty complaints,” he said. “You don’t know what it’s like. Every day is filled with more and more problems for me to fix. Day after day it gnaws at the very core of my being.” His face fell, and he clearly felt very sorry for himself. “Big deal Scar.”

25. “Ingrates!” he spat. “If it weren’t for me you’d be out on the streets still, no money, no food, no shelter! You’d be beating off buzzards for your next bite!” Scar paced the room, thinking hard of how to resolve the situation. “Yeah, you’re our saviour, thanks a bunch, but we need the money Scar! We’ve been with you around the clock and haven’t got any overtime. Some of us have things to pay for, Scar. Look at these clothes,” Banzai tugged at his clothes. “They’re raggedy!”

26. “ARE YOU BLAMING ME?!” Banzai and Ed took a step back, terrified. They had seen first hand what Scar could do. Despite what he said, no-one human could beat him when it came to strength. “No, sir, not you at all! It’s the family!”

27. “But we just need the money so we can properly control the family. Make sure they don’t rebel. And get you the creature comforts that you as legacy heir deserve.” Banzai, despite his appearance, wasn’t stupid. He’d studied Scar for a long time, and with him, flattery got you everywhere. Ed however... He was a few sandwiches short of a picnic. He was picnic short of food, drinks, a place to sit and nice weather. He didn’t say much- he preferred to let his fists do the talking. He just grinned, even when he was collecting rent money or beating a guy up for not meeting his payments. He was a sadist.

28. Zazu was trying her best to ignore the conversation from the other side of the room. “So you think you might be able to find him?” she whispered excitedly to Timon. “Yeah! I got a tipoff.” “I miss Simba so much...” Scar span round. “Simba?! Simba?! How dare you! I told you never to mention that name again!”

29. “Uh Oh.” Banzai and Ed shrank into the background. Zazu calmly walked over towards Scar. Timon went to follow her, but Zazu flung out her arm. “Don’t, Timon. Go upstairs.” Timon begrudgingly agreed. “Even in exile, his shadow looms over me!” Scar cried, running his hands through his hair. “Calm down sir-” tried Banzai. “I am perfectly fine!”

30. “I’m every man Simba was! I’m revered!” “You’re reviled!” spat Zazu. “I’m idolised!” “You’re despised!” “You’re fine Scar, you’re fine! Everyone loves you, they love you.” he whispered to himself, pacing once more. Abruptly, he stopped. “Who am I talking to?!” he moaned. “Pull yourself together Scar.” “Oh, very well. Zazu, Zazu, Zazu...” “Yes, Scar?” She said bitterly, glaring at the clearly unstable man before her. “Nobody loved me! Ever! Not even as a child! What does Simba have that I don’t have anyway?”

31. Zazu sighed. “Do you want the short list, or the long?” “Whatever.” “He had great friends, a loving family, and eventually once he had gotten over Kim he would have found himself a wife who loved him. And then they would have had children who loved him too-”

32. “That’s it! I need a wife! An heir spouse!” “A what?” “A wife! I’m nothing without a wife. A dead end, no line, no descendants, no future! With a wife I’ll have... Children! Immortality will be mine!” He threw his head back and laughed. “You’ll never find a woman who’ll love you Scar.” Zazu scowled. Scar looked up. Zazu...

33. Zazu hated him. That was certain. And she wasn’t his type at all, he preferred his women with more obvious beauty. But despite her personality flaws, he found himself immensely attracted to her. “Because you’re an ugly-” She’s beautiful, and intelligent too. “-self centred-” She will be mine. “-greedy-” She’s got nobility in every gene, too. I mean, she’s a legacy heir. She’s perfect. “-money grabbing-”

34. She has to be my wife. “- bastard that shouldn’t ever see the light of day! “Come sweet Zazu, it’s written in the stars!” She stopped. “Are you even listening to me?” He put his hand on her shoulder. “We’ll create a host of little Scars!” He grinned. “What are you talking about?!” She shrieked, pulling away, but Scar’s arms held her tightly.

35. “Tell me I’m adored!” He whispered in her ear, and then leaned in towards her. “Get away from me!” “Tell me I’m adored!” Zazu brought her hand up and struck him hard across the face. He stood stunned for a moment. Zazu breathed heavily in and out, half exhilarated, half terrified of the consequences of her actions. But hey, in for a penny, in for a pound.

36. “I am engaged! To a wonderful, kind, attractive, intelligent man who loves me! He doesn’t care about the legacy, he just wants to be with me! So you stay away from me you slime ball!” Scar smiled, and began to laugh. He chuckled, louder and louder till he was practically screaming. “Oh, Zazu... You know how I loathe violence.”

37. His eyes narrowed. “One way or another, you will be mine.” “Never, Scar. Never!” Scar hesitated. “Caractacus! Get down here now!”

38. Caractacus had had an unusually good day. He came down stairs, whistling and smiling to himself. “What is it, Scar?” “Great news! Zazu has agreed to marry me, and become the next heir spouse!” “... What?!” “This also solves the problem of your accounts. As an official member of the Gladrags family, I will be able to access your bank account. The wedding will be very soon, but in the mean time we must prepare-”

39. “You can’t do this! She’s engaged to Andy!” “I can take care of Andy after the wedding. And I think you’ll find I can do this. You belong to me. You all belong to me!” “I’ll kill you Scar!” Caractacus raised his fist, but Scar grabbed his arm and twisted it painfully. “But if you killed me, then poor little Shenzi would die too. And you wouldn’t want that would you?”

40. Scar let go of Caractacus’s arm, and walked to the stairs, still laughing. His daughter ran to him and hugged him tightly. “What’re we going to do, Dad?” “I don’t know Zazu,” he whispered. “I just don’t know.” “Caractacus?” “Dad?” Dustan and Timon had come downstairs after they had seen Scar leave. “Caractacus, what’s going on?” He took them both into the kitchen and explained the situation. Dunstan began to cry. “But what about Andy-” “He said he’d take care of Andy after the wedding.” said Zazu blankly, still in shock. Dunstan looked horrified.

41. Timon couldn’t think straight. This wasn’t right. Why were they being persecuted like this? Her hands fiddled with the golden ring in her pocket, turning it over in her hands. She couldn’t let this happen to Zazu, but how was she going to stop it? All she knew was that finding Simba was key.

42. She called anyone she could and scoured the internet, searching for places where he might have gone. Any sightings, any reports of him. Anything. She even checked some of Shenzi’s hate sights, as they occasionally updated on the whereabouts of her family so they could persecute them. Eventually she found out that he had been seen leaving a bar on the other side of town.

43. Timon arrived at the bar with a heavy heart. She half hoped he wasn’t here, because this place was filthy. It was deserted except for two drunks, singing to themselves in a corner. “Excuse me?” she said to the barman. He turned and smiled. “What can I do for you little lady?” “Have you seen-”

44. “Timon?” She turned to the drunk, and did a double take. “Simba? Is it really you?” “Of course!” Simba had allowed his appearance to deteriorate so much that Timon couldn’t recognise him. He hadn’t shaved, his hair was greasy, and as he hadn’t bothered to wash his corpse smell was all the more pungent. He pulled her in for a hug. “It’s so great to see you!” “You too...” “So how’s home? Everything ok?” Timon was confused. Didn’t he remember?

45. “Simba... You left. Why did you go?” “I know, it was wrong... But I just needed a time out. Away from the legacy.” “So you’ll come back now?” “... I don’t think so Timon. I like it here. No pressure, no expectations, no worries!” “But-” “I need this. Living out on my own. It’s great Timon, you should try it!” “We’ve really needed you at home.” said Timon quietly, her voice catching. “No-one wants me.” “For all we know, you could be the legacy heir. It’s your duty- I thought you wanted to be heir.”

46. “Youra legacy heir?” Jimmy looked up from his drink. “You thin’ you know a guy.” “I’m not cut out to be a legacy heir anymore. That was the old me. That was a long time a go...” Simba crossed his arms, and Timon got another whiff of BO. “Simba, you need to come back home. We’ll go back to the house, you can have a shower, and you can overthrow Scar.” “What?” “Scar. Remember? He took over the legacy- you gave him the heirship.”

47. “Why did you let that happen?” “You clearly didn’t realise who you were dealing with Simba. He’s overthrown us- and now everyone hates us because of Shenzi.” “What am I supposed to do about it?” “Come home!” “Why?!” “Because Scar is forcing Zazu to marry him!” Timon yelled. “... But she’s engaged to Andy!” Timon’s face fell. “He’s going to kill him. After the wedding. I know it.” “I can’t go back Timon.” “Why not?!” “You wouldn’t understand! Some times bad things happen and there’s nothing you can do about it. So why worry?” “It’s your responsibility. It never would have happened if you hadn’t gotten involved with Scar.” “You’ve left too!” “I left to find you! Please help Simba, you’re our only hope!”

48. “I’m sorry, I’m not helping.” He turned away from her, but she pulled him back. “What’s happened to you? You’re not the Simba I remember.” “You’re right. I’m not. Now are you satisfied?” “No. I’m just disappointed.” “You know you’re starting to sound a lot like Shenzi.” He wrenched his arm free again and walked back to Jimmy. “Good, at least one of us does.” Simba stopped and span around, stung by Timon’s words. “You think you can just turn up and tell me how to live my life?! You don’t even know what I’ve been through!” “I would if you’d tell me!” “Forget it!” “FINE!”

49. Timon stormed out of the bar, slamming the rickety door behind her. Everyone was silent. “She’s wrong.” Simba muttered. “I can’t go back. What would it prove anyway? It won’t change anything. You can’t change the past?” “I don’t need you!” He screamed at no-one in particular. He bowed his head, holding back tears. “You said you’d be there for me, always. But you’re not, and it’s all my fault. All my fault.” He glared at where Timon had just been, and ran out of the bar.

50. He ran to the playground where he had been sleeping. It had long since been abandoned, and weeds grew in the long, yellowing grass that surrounded the rusty swings and round-a-bout. He sat on the swings, his head in his hands. “Asante sana, Squash banana, We wenugu, Mi miapana!” Simba raised his head. Annoyed, he got off the swings and moved to the round-a-bout.

51. “Asante sana, Squash banana, We wenugu, Mi miapana!” The boy chanted, swinging off the monkey bars. “Come on, will you cut it out?!” Simba asked. “Can’t cut it out. It’ll grow right back!” The boy giggled. Simba sighed. He got up to leave, he’d find somewhere else to sleep. “Don’t go! I’m Rafiki!” “Creepy little boy. Who are you anyway?” “The question is, whoooo are youuu?”

52. Simba looked startled. He sighed. “I thought I knew. Now I’m not so sure.” Rafiki let go of the monkey bars. “Well, I know who you are. Shh. Come here. It’s a secret!” He leant to whisper in Simba’s ear. “Asante sana, Squash banana, We wenugu, Mi miapana!”

53. “Enough already!” shouted Simba. “What’s that supposed to mean anyway?” “It means you’re a child and I’m not!” Rafiki grinned. Simba backed away. “I think you’re a little confused. Rafiki jumped back onto the monkey bars. “Wrong. I’m not the one who’s confused- you don’t even know who you are.”

54. “Oh, and I suppose you know?” He said sarcastically, irritated by the frustrating boy. “Sure do- you’re Caractacus and Dunstan’s boy.” “What? How do you know my parents?” “I know Caractacus well. He’s a scientist, yes? I met him after he was studying my genes- I’m psychic and he needed to examine what made me so. I guessed the sex of each of his children before they were born- including you. A nice man, and one who didn’t deserve all this hardship.” Simba didn’t bother asking Rafiki how he could possibly be older than him.

55. “What else do you know about me?” “Your father’s father was Teppic, yes? Another fine man.” Rafiki stood on one hand as he spoke, seemingly with ease. “Yes, I know him.” Siimba hesitated. “I’m afraid my grandfather died... A long time ago.” “Nope! Wrong again! Nobody ever dies Simba, not so long as people remember them. And I remember your grandfather.” “That’s ridiculous.” “If I can remember your grandfather then I can speak to him. So think how easy it is to talk to someone who is alive but far away? Which is what you want, isn’t it?” Simba hesitated. “Can you really do that?” “Haha! Of course! Come on!” He walked towards the back of the slide. “Don’t dawdle. Hurry up!”

56. “Rafiki, it’s just a puddle.” “Look at it.” “All I see is my reflection!” “And Shenzi is a reflection of yourself. She lives in you and you live in her. Brother and sister. Friends.” Simba looked into the puddle again. “She’s not there!” “Noo. Look harder Simba!” Simba stared. He looked into the murky puddle and caught his eyes. The same eyes as Shenzi. He could have sworn he saw a flash of white and blue. Must be my imagination he thought. “Simba?”

57. “Shenzi?” Simba span around. She was standing beside Rafiki. This wasn’t possible. “Is this real or is it happening in my head?” he asked nervously. “Of course this is happening in your head, Simba, but why on earth would that mean that it is not real?”

58. “Shenzi! I’ve missed you!” “I’ve missed you too.” “You’re not talking in the third person.” “Because this is your subconscious.” “Shenzi...” He pulled her into a tight hug. Rafiki, sensitive as he was, decided to let Simba wrestle with his mind on his own. They broke apart. “You have forgotten me Simba.” “How could I forget you Shenzi?”

59. “You’ve forgotten who you are, and so have forgotten me. Look inside yourself Simba. You are more than you have become. You must go back and save Zazu.” “How can I go back? I’m not who I used to be.” “Remember who you are.” She hugged him this time. “Remember.” she whispered in his ear. “Don’t go, wait-” “-Remember.” “Don’t leave me!” “-Remember!” Simba blinked, and Shenzi wasn’t there anymore.

60. Rafiki was on the round-a-bout. He glanced up at the sky. “The rain has stopped.” “Yeah...” Simba was still confused about what had happened. “The winds are changing.” “Change is good.” “Yeah, but it’s not easy. I know what I have to do. But, going back means I’ll have to face my past. I’ve been running from it for so long-” Rafiki punched him hard on the shoulder, and Simba staggered backwards. “Ow! What was that for?!” “It doesn’t matter! It’s in the past!” “It still hurt.” “Oh yes, the pass can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it, or... Learn from it!” He swung his arm again, but this time Simba dodged.

61. “Haha, you see! So what are you going to do?” “I’m going back.” “Good! Go on, get out of here!” Simba ran, and Rafiki watched him until he was out of sight. He chuckled to himself, then carried on playing.

62. Caractacus entered his favourite coffee shop with some trepidation. “Could I have a Macchiato and one of your brownies please.” he said in a gravelly voice. He didn’t want them to know who he was, but his efforts were in vain. “Mr Gladrags, I know it’s you. Drop the act.” “Who is this Mr Gladrags of which you speak? I do not know-” “-Did you really think wearing a trench coat and some sunglasses would make us think you were someone else?” “... I suppose not. But could I get those to go, please, I-” “- Management has a right to refuse service to anyone, sir.” She spat the last few words. “On what grounds?” “That subhuman daughter of yours is enough.”

63. Caractacus felt a shiver of anger. “My daughter-” “-Killed a man. And would have killed more if she hadn’t been caught.” “You can’t do this!” “Sir,” said one of the other workers. “Don’t make us call security.” Caractacus stared, stunned by their prejudices. “JJ, you went to school with Shenzi for god’s sake!” “Don’t mention that animal’s name in here. Now do I have to call security?” “...No. I’ll not be coming back here.” “Get out, and take your damn brownie.” She hurled in across the counter, where it landed on his coat. Caractacus silently brushed it off and walked out of the store, quietly closing the door behind him.

64. Timon was depressed. She’d stormed out of the bar two days ago, and now felt incredibly guilty. She’d gone back to the bar and asked if they’d seen Simba, but the barman told Timon that he hadn’t seen him since that night. Since then she’d been searching the neighbourhood for her brother, but to no avail. She came to a small park, where a boy was playing. “Excuse me...” she asked. “Does your mother know that you’re out? It’s awfully late and not the safest place to be.” He didn’t answer. “Have you seen a man, about six foot, dark hair, he’s a zombie, he’s wearing a blue and white striped-” “-I have seen Simba, yes.” He carried on spinning. “How do you know his name?” “The same way I know your name Timon.”

65. “What-” “-He’s gone back, Timon.” “Back home?” “Yes. To face his past and his future. To take his place in the circle of life.” “How long ago did he leave?” “Well, he left about an hour after you yelled at him in the bar. But I believe he has errands to run before he meets you.” “Do you know where he is now?” “On the other side of time. Looking for you, in fact.” “Thank you!” “Don’t mention it.” he smiled. “Goodbye!” She walked away, feeling exhilarated. “Sabusa le lizwe Timon.” he sighed. “Sabusa le lizwe.”

66. Meanwhile, across town, Zazu wasn’t feeling half as ecstatic. She felt the material of the smooth wedding dress Scar had picked out for her. It was a beautiful dress- Scar at least had taste- but it just made her feel worse about the whole situation. She should be wearing this at a wedding to another man. “Oh, Andy.” she whispered.

67. “Simba! Oh Simba!” Timon yelled in the back alley, yawning slightly as she said it. It was nearly morning, and she was still no nearer to finding Simba. “Simba!” “Timon!” He ran to her and they hugged. “I’m sorry I was away so long, and I’m sorry I wouldn’t come back, but I will now.” “It’s ok. I’m sorry for yelling.” “I don’t mean to rush you, but we need to rescue Shenzi.” “How?” “Well, I know where they’re keeping her, it’s just getting past the guards. We need a distraction.”

68. “I’ll do it!” “Timon, it’ll be dangerous.” “Danger? Hah! I laugh in the face of danger!” Simba smiled. “Now, you just have to think of a way to distract Banzai and Ed. “I think I have the perfect way, but we’ll have to stop at the dorm first.” “No problem,” said Simba. “We have to go there anyway.” Banzai and Ed guarded the door to Shenzi’s cell. They had been there all night, and would stay there all day until Scar’s wedding was over. Things had been boring so far, until-

69. “Hey, boneheads!” Banzai and Ed looked around. “Come and catch us!” Timon and Pumbaa chanted. They danced around, waving and sticking their tongues out at them, before running away. “What. Just. Happened?” asked Banzai, before chasing after them with Ed. Simba, hiding around the corner, made his move. He jimmied open the lock to Shenzi’s cell, and burst through.

70. “Shenzi!” he yelled. She looked up from her chair. “... Simba?” It was so long since she had seen anyone other than the guards that she didn’t register Simba properly for a moment. “I’ve... I’ve come to get you out of here. And to apologise. I’m so sorry Shenzi, for everything I did and I really want-”

71. Shenzi pulled him closer and they embraced. “It’s ok. That doesn’t matter now.” Simba smiled, but then frowned. “Shenzi, why are you a werewolf still? It’s 8 in the morning!” “It’s the full moon. Shenzi can change at will on the full moon, all werewolves can. And she feels calmer as a wolf.” Simba smiled. “Shenzi, you’ve just saved us all.”

72. “You take the one on the right. I’ll get the pink haired one.” “Oh I don’t think you will.” “How did you get out of your cell?!” “Wouldn’t you like to know.” she smiled, before lunging in for a bite.

73. Scar stood smugly in the registry office. No church would let a man like him in, and not even Scar would threaten a holy man. At least, not again. Only Caractacus, Dunstan and Timon were there watching, all looking heartbroken. Scar chuckled. Soon, everything would be his. Dunstan and Zazu walked slowly down the aisle. “I’m so sorry Zazu.” he said to her. “It’s not your fault Dad.” He kissed her on the cheek. “I love you.” “I love you too.” She turned to Scar. “Hello, my dear.” He grinned. “You disgust me.”

74. “Oooh, fiery, I like it. Save it for the wedding night Zazu.” She growled, but he just laughed. “Shall we get on with this then? Zazu-” “-Not so fast Scar.” Simba walked up the aisle, a look of deepest loathing on his face. “Ah, Simba. I thought you might turn up today.” “Let her go, Scar.” “I don’t think I will.” He said, a wide grin on his face. “I think I’ll just kill you.” Simba leapt towards him, screaming madly, but Scar quickly knocked him aside. Simba crashed to the floor, and Scar stood over him, triumphant.

75. “You can’t beat me, Simba. No-one human can.” “That’s right,” panted Simba. “No-one human can!” “Scar.” called Shenzi. Scar’s jaw dropped. “How did you get out of your cell, Shenzi? And how are you still a were-” “- Your guards are dead. I killed them.” “But-” “-You didn’t do your research Scar. Tonight’s the full moon, and werewolves can change at will.” Scar was horrified. “You monster!” “I’m not the monster here, you are. But I’m going to make you wish you’d never been born, Scar.

76. Shenzi leapt towards Scar, pulling him to the ground. As Simba jumped to his feet, Scar scrambled to get away from Shenzi, but it was too late. She fixed her jaws around his neck, and bit him. He screamed and writhed, and then Shenzi let go. He was bleeding profusely but he would survive. “She bit me! She bit me!” “That’s right Scar.” said Simba. “Now you know what it’s like- tomorrow night you will change just like all the other werewolves.” “I-I-I don’t want to be a werewolf!” “Does anyone?” “What am I going to do?!” Scar whimpered, tears in his eyes.

77. “Run. Run away, Scar. And never return.” Scar staggered out of the room, still bleeding, and slammed the door behind him. Simba turned to Zazu and hugged her tightly. “I’m sorry I left.” He did this to each member of his family, before Zazu spoke. “What you did was wrong, Simba. But we all love you, and we always will.” Simba nodded. There was a brief silence, before Simba spoke. “It’d be a shame to waste this room.” “What’re you getting at, Simba?” asked Zazu. “Well, I brought someone with me.”

78. When Andy entered the room, time seemed to slow. Simba watched the expression on Zazu’s face turn from confusion to surprise to delight. Andy ran towards her and kissed her before they could say a word to each other. It went on so long that Caractacus and Dunstan felt a bit awkward. *ahem* They ended the kiss, smiling widely, clinging to each other as if they thought that if they let go, the other would disappear. “I’ve missed you so much.” said Andy. “I’ve missed you too!”

79. “Why are you dressed like that Andy?” she asked him. “Simba made me change into formal wear. I don’t know why!” All eyes turned to Simba. “Well, if we have a registry office booked, then why not use it? You two are engaged after all.” Zazu looked at Andy. “What do you think?” “I’m ready if you are,” he smiled at her. They stepped forward, to the front of the room. Andy took the rings out of his pocket. “I’ve been carrying them around with me,” he said sheepishly, scratching the back of his head. “I missed you so much you see and-”

80. He caught a glimpse of Zazu’s smile. Till this moment, Andy hadn’t realised quite how beautiful she was. He knew that Shenzi was idolised by many men, and Timon had her own group of quite unusual followers, but Zazu... Zazu’s beauty was remarkable. Andy grinned and slipped the ring over her finger. She did the same. “This is it.” she whispered breathily. “You may now kiss the bride.” And he did. Timon and Shenzi cheered whilst Caractacus and Dunstan cried. Simba just smiled. “Now,” shouted Timon. “To the reception!”

81. The first thing Simba did once he got home was have a shower and shave. He felt so much better once he was clean. They partied through the afternoon and into the night, until there was a knock at the door. Caractacus answered it. “I’m so glad you could make it Reg. Simba, there’s someone here I’d like you to meet.” Simba looked around. Standing in the hallway was a tall, red haired man, wearing clothing that could rival Timon for brightness. He was also a zombie. “This is Reg Shoe. He’s the founder of the “Fresh Start Club”.” “Pleased to meet ya.” He wrung Simba’s hand.

82. “I’m here to check on how you’re feeling, and to offer you a membership to the club.” He said, beaming at Simba. “Erm, I don’t know...” “Have you ever felt lonely? Afraid?” Simba hesitated. “Sometimes.” “Well, the Fresh Start Club is full of people, just like you. Undeaddoesn’t mean Unperson, you know.” Simba still looked wary. Reg handed him a badge, with “Glad to be Grey” written on it. “Just come along once, you’ll soon see how fun it is!” Simba thought for a moment. What the hell. “Ok then!” “That’s great news! I’ll tell the others.” Reg turned to go.

83. “Reg, why don’t you stay for a while? We’re having a party!” “Are you sure? I wouldn’t want to impose.” “Not at all!” said Dunstan. “We’d love you to join us.” Reg left in the early hours of the morning, at which point they all went to bed. But their happiness wouldn’t last long. “The werewolf! She’s in there!” JJ cried, leader of the vicious riot of anti-werewolf campaigners. “Get her! Get her now!” The mob marched up to the house, torches and knives in their hands. “Burn it down!” At first the flames were small, but they soon grew and flickered dangerously. Simba woke and smelt the smoke. “FIRE!”

84. He hurtled into his parents bedroom. “Dad! Fire! Fire! Get out now!” He didn’t waste time after he saw they were up, running to Zazu’s room. “Get Timon!” he cried. “I’ll get Shenzi!” Zazu rushed away. Simba tugged on the door to Shenzi’s room, but it was locked. Zazu and Timon saw him struggling against the door and stopped abruptly. “Get out! Now!” he screamed through the flames. They shot downstairs. “Shenzi! Shenzi!” He pushed against the door to no avail. He took a step back and ran straight at it until he broke through. Shenzi’s room was a ball of flames, an ocean of red and orange washing over her possessions.

85. Simba hurriedly woke her up. “Shenzi, get out, there’s a fire!” Groggily, she glanced at Simba, and in sudden, horrifying realisation scrambled out of bed and ran downstairs. Simba quickly followed, but Shenzi, always a quicker runner than he had been, had already got downstairs. He was nearly at the stairs, when a piece of burning debris fell from the ceiling. Simba watched it fall in slow motion, crashing to the ground whilst amber flames blocked his path. There was no way out. The flames flickered in time with his heart beat. Coughing, spluttering, he felt the heat envelop him before it happened. He closed his eyes. It was like going to sleep after a long day, or taking off a tight shoe.

86. “Where is he?!” Shenzi shrieked. “He was right behind me!” Dunstan’s frantic eyes scanned the building for any sign of him. “I’m going back in!” he cried. “No, don’t!” Caractacus screamed. Dunstan ran to the door with Caractacus close behind, but before he could reach the house they were all blown backwards off their feet. The explosion was brief but devastating. The fiery inferno had all but destroyed the legacy house. Fire engines were beginning to arrive. “Simba!” “Simba!” “Simba!” The family huddled together, howling in anguish, and the view of their home and the blaze was obscured by tears.

87. The family sat in the wreckage of their garden, waiting for the police cars to arrive to take them to the station. Dunstan heard the sirens, but ignored it. It didn’t seem to matter any more. They had seen Simba’s body. They had cried until they had nothing left in them, but it wasn’t enough. Timon walked dejectedly into the garden/ “Timon, did you see her, did you find her?” They noted the tears in her eyes. “Oh God.”

88. “She- She wasn’t there,” Timon sobbed. “I got to Mrs Gogol’s house and- and the door...” She sat down. “It had been kicked in. I went inside and every where... Everywhere was covered in blood. There was no sign of her...” Caractacus sobbed into his hands. They were being ripped apart by grief. It was even worse than the first time Simba had died, because they’d had him back and now he was being snatched away again.

89. “I came as quickly as I could.” It was Reg. No-one got up to greet him, and he was only acknowledged by Zazu. “Mr Shoe, you know about zombies, can you tell us how to-” “-There’s nothing you can do Zazu.” he interrupted. “Simba has died once, and been resurrected. He can’t come back.” “But-” “-It’s part of the deal. If you’re brought back once, you can’t be brought back again. And to be honest, I think he’s better off dead.” The family gasped. “I didn’t mean that the way it sounded. I just mean... Being a zombie, it’s a terrible life. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. You can’t eat, or sleep, or dream. You don’t feel warm or cold, you don’t feel pain, it’s just total detachment. Nothing is worth that. It’s not life, it’s existence. I’m so sorry for your loss.” He left. “What are we going to do with out him?” Dunstan whimpered. “I have no idea.” said Timon. “He’s right though,” said Zazu. “I don’t think he was ever happy as a zombie. It was his time.” The others didn’t seem to sure. The sound of the sirens got louder, and before long a friendly police officer took statements and comforted the grieving family.

90. One by one, the family were brought to temporary accommodation by the police, finally taking their trouble seriously. Timon was left on her own for a while, in a quiet room of their new house. Why did this kind of thing always happen to them? She felt her mobile vibrate in her pocket.

91. “Hello?” she whispered, her voice catching. “I’m ringing about the heir poll. I have the results.” Oh God. Simba will have won- what were they going to do? “I’m sorry, but-” “-Miss Gladrags, you have won. You are the next legacy heir.” “What?!” “Goodbye.” The man hung up. Timon looked stunned. “Sabusa le lizwe Timon.” Timon span around. It was Rafiki. “Rafiki... What are you doing here? How did you-” “It means you will rule this land Timon.” “I don’t want to-” “-You will rule this land. Out of the ashes a new era will rise. Greater but darker than the last.” “Wait!” But he disappeared faster than he had arrived.

92. She walked to the window, and looked out at the night sky. It was like a deep blue piece of velvet littered with diamonds. One star stood out, blazing brighter than any other. She remembered the story that her father had told her. “I love you Simba.” It could have been the wind. It must have been. But she could have sworn she heard some one whisper “I love you too.”.