Early the next morning, a rather nervous Oxpecker came and led the two Cats back to the river, where Ma Tembo had a parting gift waiting for them.

They were greeted by an Otter, carrying a basket of fish.

“For your journey out of our lands,” he said, handing the basket over to Sarabi.

“Oh! Thank you,” the Lioness said with a nod. One the Otter returned before diving back into the river.

“Wherever this takes us, I hope we don't have to swim,” Mrembo said, watching him leave.

“What? You don't like water?” Sarabi asked, handing the Cheetah one of the fish and grabbing one herself. Normally she wouldn't lower herself to eating raw meat, but fish barely counted.

“Water is fine, I just... can't swim,” Mrembo admitted.

“Heh, guess you got really lucky in the river then,” Sarabi considered. Not that being able to swim had helped her much in that scenario.

“Yeah...” There was a reason Mrembo was walking with Sarabi between her and the riverbank. Thinking about it brought back fractured memories of rushing water, her lungs screaming for air... it was unpleasant.

“Well... at least we got a meal,” Sarabi said, not sure what to say as the Cheetah went silent.

“Yeah... you know, I've never had fish before,” Mrembo said, looking at the fish in her hand. It certainly smelled... well, it smelled.

“We don’t have it a lot, the King says it’s beneath us,” Sarabi said, unsheathing a claw and using it to peel the scales off of the fish.

“I’ll bet he says that about a lot of things,” Mrembo muttered, watching the Lion and doing her best to mimic her. Though her claws weren't as sharp.

Sarabi glared at Mrembo. “You know, I’d really appreciate it if you’d stop bad-mouthing my pride.”

Mrembo opened her mouth to say something but paused before continuing. “Look I know they’re your family but... you understand that it sucks right? You all show up one day and just decide that my territory is yours now? That because you’re bigger, and there’s more of you, that I have to leave my home and try to find somewhere else?”

Sarabi blinked, that was much more candid than she’d expected. “I don’t... we need more space, we have a lot of cubs, a lot of members of the pride. It’s not like we just did this on a whim.”

“Yeah well, you having your reasons doesn’t make it any easier for me,” Mrembo replied. “I deserve a home too...”

For the most part, Sarabi had just kinda brushed it off whenever Mrembo brought this up. But that one actually hurt a little.

“... I’m sorry,” she replied after a moment.

“Pardon me?” Mrembo asked, ears perking up, not believing what she’d just heard.

“You’re right, even if we need more space to hunt, you don’t deserve to lose your home,” Sarabi sighed.

“Wow, first you say please, then you apologize,” Mrembo smirked. “You really are a weird Lion.”

Sarabi huffed and turned away. “Whatever.”

“... I’m sorry, that was a bad time to tease you,” Mrembo apologized. “I don’t spend much time around others but that’s no excuse,” she sighed. “I... I appreciate it Sarabi, I really do.” It didn’t change anything, but it was nice to have it acknowledged.

Sarabi turned back and smiled at the Cheetah.

Mrembo smiled back. “Soo... does this mean I don't have to find new territory when we get back?”

“Mrembo I... even if I wanted to do that, I don't really have much say in the pride,” she shook her head. “I've... never even managed to hunt on my own. And I only came of age earlier this year.”

“Really? I mean, I’m pretty sure we’re the same age, and I’ve been on my own for a couple of years now,” Mrembo said, looking at her curiously.

“It’s different with Lions,” Sarabi shrugged. “We spend a lot of time making sure our cubs know everything they need to know, taking them on practice, building strength, that sort of thing.”

“Ah, and you think the others won't listen to you cause you're too young?” Mrembo asked.

“The day we got... swept away, was the first time I was allowed to hunt with the rest of the pride,” Sarabi explained. “And only cause I... took credit for your kill.”

“Oh... sorry about spilling your secret,” Mrembo apologized.

“It's my own fault,” she shook her head. “I just... I keep letting my anger get the better of me. I'm not patient enough for solo hunting... I mean, you saw how I got when you told the others it was your kill... sorry about that by the way.”

“Well, you stopped before you actually killed me, so you at least have some control,” Mrembo smirked.

“Thanks,” Sarabi deadpanned.

Mrembo opened her mouth for a second, almost offering to give the Lioness some pointers but... being able to hunt on her own was all Mrembo brought to this. Apologies or no, if Sarabi were able to make this trip on her own, why wouldn't she?

Thankfully, the Lioness didn't seem to pick up on what the Cheetah was thinking.

“Well, we'd better pick up the pace,” Sarabi said. “Once we stop for the night, maybe we can cook some of this up,” she said, holding up the basket of fish.

Mrembo smiled softly. “Sounds good to me.”

~~~

The next few days passed without much incident. By the time their fish ran out, they were sure enough that they were out of the Elephant’s lands that Mrembo felt safe enough to hunt again.

It was a bit more work than she'd expected to bring in enough food for both of them, especially if she ever wanted to have any leftover to dry out and make into rations. But for now, they were managing.

“So... what about your family?” Sarabi asked, the Lioness sitting back as Mrembo carved up an impala.

“What about them?” Mrembo asked, not looking up from her work.

“What do you think what about them?” Sarabi deadpanned. “Do you have any?”

“I have a mother, a sister, a brother, and a father... presumably,” the Cheetah replied. “I never met him.”

“Oh... I'm sorry?” Sarabi wasn't sure what to say to that.

“Oh he's not dead... well, he might be,” she shrugged. “Male Cheetahs don't really stick around, not normally anyway. We live alone.”

“Oh... I feel like I should say sorry again,” Sarabi admitted.

Mrembo chuckled. “It's... just the way things are. We don't really see each other once we're grown... I still think about them sometimes, my mother and siblings I mean, I hope they're doing alright.”

“Ah... I'm an only child, which is kinda weird for a Lion,” Sarabi replied. “But there were other cubs growing up when I was young, most a couple seasons younger or older than me though.”

“You must have a lot of friends at least,” Sarabi said, putting a few strips of meat by the fire.

Sarabi was silent.

“... really? But you have such a sparkling personality,” the Cheetah smirked, dodging as the Lioness hucked a branch in her direction.

“Yeah yeah, laugh it up,” Sarabi sighed. “I just... I don’t know, I never got along with the younger cubs, and the older ones always acted like they were too busy or important to spend time with me.”

“Hmm...” Mrembo was doing her best not to make snide remarks about the Lioness’ attitude. “Well, I’m sorry to hear that Sarabi. But... you know, their loss.”

“Thanks,” Sarabi didn't think she actually meant that, but she appreciated the sentiment.

Later that night, Mrembo sat by the smoldering remains of the fire. Sarabi was asleep while the Cheetah took her watch.

So far, they hadn’t encountered anyone since they’d left the Elephant’s land, but it didn’t hurt to be careful.

Looking over at the Lioness, Mrembo couldn’t help but smile softly. The more time she spent with her, the more she found herself appreciating the company. Especially since she was much less insufferable than she had been when they’d first got washed down the river.

Looking in that direction... she wondered how far they were from home. They’d been walking for days, and still, nothing looked familiar. And the river was still a river.

Sighing, she got up, walking between the trees. Ma Tembo had said out this way was the sporadic territory of Hunters, but they hadn’t encountered anyone.

“Probably for the best,” she said with a sigh. It struck her again just how strange her and Sarabi’s situation was. Hunters kept to their own, and some, like Cheetahs, didn’t even do that.

But... as irritating as she could be, it didn’t feel wrong. Being with Sarabi. Much as she hated to admit it... the Lioness was starting to grow on her a little.

“Wonder if she’s feeling the same,” Mrembo said, looking back towards the sleeping Lioness.

Suddenly, something fell from the tree, landing behind Mrembo, wrapping an arm around her waist and putting a hand over her mouth before the Cheetah could react.

“Mmph!?” Mrembo’s eyes widened as she was picked up and pulled backwards into the darkness. She tried to break free but whatever had grabbed her was strong.

They broke through the treeline, and in an exuberant voice, her captor spoke. “Brother? Are you here?” He called out. “I’ve rescued the young lady!”

Rescued? Who the heck was this?

Jumping down from one of the trees, Mrembo finally got a good look. Superficially they looked like her, same yellow coat covered in spots. But their coat was smoother, their body more muscular, more suited for climbing than running.

Leopards. Wonderful.

“Excellent work brother,” the new one said with a smirk. “And the Lion is none the wiser,” he looked at Mrembo and smiled. “Don’t worry my dear, soon you’ll be well away from that vile beast who’s been forcing you to hunt for her.”

Mrembo groaned, great. They’d been watching her, and they were stupid. “Mm-mmph...” she elbowed the one holding her.

“Ow!” He let her go, rubbing his chest.

“While I appreciate the sentiment, I do not appreciate being abducted,” Mrembo said, stepping away from the Leopards. “I’m not being forced to do anything, the Lion and I have... an agreement.”

The two Leopards looked at each other. “What self-respecting Leopard would willingly work with one of them?” The first asked.

... wow, they really were stupid.

“I’m not a Leopard,” she said, rubbing her forehead. “I’m a Cheetah... anyway, thanks for the ‘save’, but I should really-”

She felt a hand grab her shoulder, before she was yanked back and slammed to the ground.

“You know Mjanja,” the first said, a hand on Mrembo’s chest, just below her neck. “Cheetah or Leopard, I don’t think our little rescue is very appreciative.”

“Mmm, we did risk angering a Lion for her Siri,” the second replied, standing over and looking down at Mrembo. “And if she is a Cheetah... that makes her a trespasser, whereas a Leopard would be a very welcome friend~”

Mrembo could probably take one Leopard, but two would absolutely destroy her. And she did not like the way they were looking at her.

“You don't have to do this,” she said, bracing her feet on the ground, ready to try and flip this guy if he tried anything. “We're all Hunters here.”

“Hunters yes, but Leopards? ... choose carefully~”

Before Mrembo had time to think on her response, a roar pierced through the night air. Sarabi charged out of the treeline, grabbed the Leopard holding Mrembo down and threw him against one of the tree trunks.

“Brother!” Mjanja hissed, rushing towards Sarabi with his claws out, but he was tripped as Mrembo spun around, kicking his legs out from under him.

“I'm a Cheetah!” She said defiantly.

Siri groaned as he tried to get up, only for Sarabi to grab him again, this time throwing him into his brother.

Growling, she stepped up beside Mrembo. “One chance,” the Lioness growled. “Leave. Now!”

They didn't need to be told twice. The brothers scrambling to their feet and rushing off into the night.

Mrembo sighed, putting a hand on Sarabi's shoulder. “Tha-” She pulled back as the Lion turned and growled at her. Though the anger quickly left her face. Replaced with regret and shame.

“Sorry I... sometimes when I get really angry I lose control,” Sarabi apologized.

“Got it, give you space when you get like that,” Mrembo nodded. “... thanks for saving me.”

Sarabi smirked slightly. “Hey, it's why I'm here isn't it? What happened? I woke up and you were gone.”

Mrembo sighed. “Apparently they thought I was a Leopard who needed saving from her unjust Lion captor,” Mrembo explained as they made their way back to camp. “... or maybe they just really wanted me to be a Leopard... it didn't seem like their intentions were altruistic.”

“Oh... well, I'm glad you're okay,” Sarabi said, smiling at the Cheetah.

“Heh, careful Sarabi,” Mrembo teased back. “That's dangerously close to saying you care about me.”

“Pff, as if,” Sarabi waved her off. “You're just useful to have around is all.”

Mrembo chuckled weakly as they both fell silent. They'd teased each other like that before but... it didn't feel good saying it this time.

That was what this partnership was built on. Being useful to each other. But the words stung both Cats, though neither said anything about it.

“If you want to get back to sleep, I can finish the rest of my watch,” Mrembo offered after a few quiet moments.

“I don't think I'm getting back to sleep,” Sarabi shook her head, kicking out the last ashes of the nights fire. “Better we get an early start and put as much distance between us and those two as possible.”

“On that, we can agreed,” Mrembo said with a nod, the pair heading back towards the river.

“Who knows, maybe today we finally figure out when a river stops being a river,” Sarabi said, nudging the Cheetah.

“Ugh, I hate riddles,” Mrembo shook her head.

~~~

“I can't believe we've been walking for a week!” Sarabi groaned. “And it's still just a damn river!”

“I'm starting to think your ‘Seer’ was messing with us,” Mrembo sighed, currently walking a bit ahead of the trudging Lioness.

It had actually been a full week a few days ago, they were part-way into their second week of travel. With no sign of anything to signify they were getting closer to home.

“Maybe you're right, maybe she was just messing with us,” Sarabi groaned.

Mrembo stopped as she came to the top of a hill, looking down... ooooh.

“Hey Sarabi? When does a river stop being a river?” She asked back towards Sarabi.

The Lion groaned. “I don't know... when it drys up?”

“Close,” Mrembo said, crossing her arms and waiting for Sarabi to climb the hill. “When it's a lake.”

Looking down from the hill, Sarabi saw what had once, probably recently, been a valley. But was now flooded with water. On the far side, several waterfalls fed into the lake, and to their right, the water flowed out through a narrow chasm into the river they'd been following.

“... Mrembo?” Sarabi asked, doing some quick mental math.

“Yes?” The Cheetah replied.

“There's no way we'd have survived this,” the Lioness realized. “We've been following the wrong river!”

“The Vultures did say the flood changed the landscape,” Mrembo said, sitting down at the top of the hill. The Lioness flopping down next to her.

“Great. We're even more lost than we thought we were,” Sarabi muttered.

Mrembo pat her shoulder. “Don't be so quick to give up, remember what Ma Tembo said?”

“That we had to help people, but the only ones we've met were those Leopards,” Sarabi replied.

“And that someone here would give us directions,” Mrembo said, scanning the edge of the lake. “And I see... a lot of people.” She said, her eyes going wide.

Sarabi sighed and sat up, following the Cheetah's gaze to the edge of the water, where a literal crowd had formed. It was too far to tell what they all were, but there were a lot of them.

“I guess we should go introduce ourselves?” Mrembo suggested.

“Let's just get this over with,” Sarabi sighed. She wasn't expecting this to go well.

“That's the spirit,” Mrembo said sarcastically, rolling her eyes as the two made their way down the hill.

There was little left of whatever had once been in this valley, some trees growing at the edge of the lakes new banks were all that were left, and judging by the floating wood scattered across the lake, and the few submerged trees the Cats could see, it had happened very quicklyt.

As they neared the crowd, it became clear it was more than one kind of person. Which, judging by the shouting that was going on, was probably the reason for the crowd in the first place.

Peeking over some bushes, the two were met with quite possibly the oddest sight they had yet seen.

Currently leading the shouting match was a large male Hippo, who’s wide shoulders and broad chest were still dwarfed by what had to be the largest Crocodile either Cat had ever seen. She stood at least a head above everyone else in the crowd, her arms crossed as she, for the moment, let the Hippo say his piece.

Those two and their respective groups made up about half or so of the gathered attendees. There were also Otters, some Bullfrogs, a group of very nervous looking Flamingos, and... a few things neither Cat recognized.

“Are those fish? Or... I guess Fish?” Mrembo asked, head tilting. She'd never used that word in that form before.

Mostly they saw large silver fish-like heads with massive sharp teeth poking out of the water, but a few had ventured onto land to more directly engage in conversation. They were a little shorter than most of the other attendees, standing about equal with the stocky Bullfrogs. With arms and legs like everyone else, as well as a fish like tail with red markings.

“I mean that's what it looks like,” Sarabi replied. “This is weird, most of these are Hunters of some kind, what're they all doing?”

“You really think we would trust your kind?” The Hippo asked, standing chest to chest with the large Crocodile. “You would sink your teeth into us all as soon as our backs were turned.”

There was a deep rumble from the Crocodile as she spoke. “You are one to talk, how many of ours have you broken in two simply for being in your way?”

“Not enough from the looks of it!” One of the Bullfrogs shouted, earning him a hearty bellowing laugh from the Hippos. While the Flamingos giggled amongst themselves.

“Hey! Hey!” An Otter pushed in between the pair. “Look, we're all in the same situation here, why don't we just calm down and take a minute to-”

“No more minutes!” One of the Fish shoved the Otter to the side. “All of you must leave! We need the lake the most! We were lucky it formed this close and we still lost nearly a third of our number making the trip here!”

“Probably got distracted by something shiny and wandered off,” the same Bullfrog muttered, earning him a few muted chuckles.

“Why don't you swim down river,” the Hippo said with a glare, the Cats getting the feeling that was some kind of insult rather than a suggestion. “We were here first, that makes it ours.”

“Yeah!” The rest of the Hippos agreed.

“We cannot! Will not go anywhere else!” The Fish stated, stamping a webbed foot. “Our need is greatest! It is ours!”

A bubbled reply came from the rest of the Fish.

The Crocodile rumbled again. “We have already had to move those few nests that survived the flood,” she said. Looking back, they could see most of the Crocodiles were carrying eggs in woven baskets. “If we leave, we consign our children to die before they even know life.”

“Okay, well, I think if we-” the Otter chimed in again.

“If I see a single one of you digging a nest, you all will be going to the Great Beyond,” the Hippo stated with finality.

“You can try,” the Crocodile growled.

“All of you! Begone! Or we eat you!” The Fish threatened before leaping back into the water, all of them submerging.

The Hippos and Crocodiles went separate ways around the shores of the lake, with the Bullfrogs following confidently behind the Hippos, while the Flamingos went the same way and kept their distance.

The Otter who'd been speaking just sat down in the mud with a wet thump.

“It's alright Moyo,” another of the Otters said, putting a hand on her shoulder.

“It ain't alright,” she sniffled, pushing his hand away. “This place could be something amazing, but that lot can't look past their own egos to see it.”

Sarabi and Mrembo looked at each other. “Well... Ma Tembo said to offer help,” Sarabi said with a shrug.

Pushing through the bushes got the attention of the Otters, most of whom chittered at them before jumping into the water.

Except for Moyo, who just flopped back in the mud. “If'n yer gonna eat me, can ya do me one kindness and take me where the others can't watch?”

“Sorry, I prefer my meals less depressed,” Mrembo said, kneeling down and leaning over the Otter.

“We're not gonna eat you,” Sarabi said with a sigh. “We heard some of that argument... you wanna fill us in on what's going on here?”

Moyo sighed and looked up at the pair, her head tilting quizzically. “You a Lion?” She asked.

“Yeah?” Sarabi replied.

“And a... Leopard?”

“Cheetah,” Mrembo corrected.

“My mistake,” Moyo sighed and got to her feet. “I'm Moyo, what brings ya'll this way?”

“Sarabi, and this is Mrembo,” the Lioness introduced them. “We got swept down river in the flood, we're trying to follow it back but... I can't believe we came through here.”

“Heh, probably not,” Moyo chuckled. “Alright, well, according to the Flamingos, this place used to be a small dry valley with barely an offshoot of the river that fed down that way,” she pointed towards the waterfalls. “But when the river busted its banks, I guess something blocked it from keeping on its normal route, and most of the water spilled down this way, flooded the valley and kept on carving a new path til it met up with itself down river a ways.”

“Guess we must've gotten sent down stream before that,” Sarabi guessed. “Explains what we've been following, and why Ma Tembo's land is untouched if most of the water stayed here.”

“Shoot! Ya’ll know Ma Tembo?” Moyo asked excitedly. “I grew up down there, moved out a few seasons ago to start my own raft.”

“Yeah, she gave us directions... and fish,” Mrembo said, holding up the empty basket they'd been given.

“I knew I recognized Riverfolk work,” she said with a smile before it faltered. “Or, Otter I mean.”

“Moyo!” One of the other Otters popped back up. “Are you dead yet?”

“I ain't dead and I ain't gonna be dead Laini,” she shot back. “Now go get the others and tell ‘em to stop bein anti-social, we've got guests.”

He sighed, but soon enough he and the other five emerged, one hanging back in the water, likely due to the two pups holding onto her sides.

“So, if ya'll are just trying to get back up river... well, ya might be outta luck,” Moyo admitted. “I ain't too sure how much of up river is the same anymore.”

“Well... actually we are trying to get home,” Sarabi said. “Ma Tembo said someone here would be able to give us directions.”

Laini scoffed. “Not sure who that could be, and even if we knew, they'd probably be too busy yelling at each other.”

“Yeah what's going on here?” Mrembo asked. “Why is everyone here and arguing... and what's with the Fish?”

Moyo chuckled. “Oh right, they don't really come to the surface much,” she sighed. “A lot of us lost our homes in the flood, dens washed away, ponds that got filled in with mud, raging rapids where there used to be calm waters. It's a right mess.”

“Which we don't need to be putting ourselves in the middle of,” the mother Otter called from the lake. “Honestly Moyo, first you make us help the Crocodiles, now this?”

“Aibu, just cause I jumped in doesn't mean I made ya'll help,” Moyo sighed. “And I told ya, those're their kids! How'd you feel if your pups were in trouble and someone didn't help?”

The Otter just grumbled to herself.

“You helped the Crocodiles?” Sarabi asked.

Moyo smiled shyly. “T'weren’t no thing, just helped dig out their nests, made some baskets to help carry the eggs, anyone would'a done it.”

“Somehow I doubt that,” Mrembo said. “So it seems like you want everyone to get along, what's the deal with the others?”

Moyo sighed. “Where to start... there's Kuuma and the other Crocodiles, lookin for somewhere to bury their eggs before its too late, I lead ‘em here when I heard about it from an Eagle friend of mine, but by then Poa and his pod had already shown up and stacked their claim.”

Mrembo nodded. “And... the Fish?”

“Tigerfish, and make sure you call ‘em that if they're nearby,” Moyo advised. “Don't know their names, normally they keep to themselves, but apparently a lot of ‘em got left high and dry when the water moved on... literally, they can't last long outta the water. They breath air fine, but their skin dries out.”

“So like a Bullfrog,” Sarabi replied.

“Sorta, but way faster,” Moyo explained. “Speakin of ya don't need to worry too much bout that lot, or the Flamingos, they're just throwin their lot in with the Hippos cause they're figurin that's the winnin bet.”

“Something we should consider doing before it's too late,” Aibu chimed in again. “How long do you think the Crocodiles are going to be grateful even if they do win?”

“Fer the last time Aibu, they ain't gonna eat us,” Moyo sighed.

Aibu scoffed, taking her children and diving underwater.

“She... lost her mate to a crocodile a few months ago,” Moyo explained sadly. “I think she's holdin it against the Crocodiles too.”

“Maybe she's right Moyo,” Laini said with a sigh. “I know it's not what you wanted but... the Hippos probably won't bother us.”

“That ain't the point Laini,” Moyo sighed. “I just know we could make this place something amazing if'n we weren't all hung up on wantin it for ourselves.”

“Well... maybe you need to start thinking about reality,” Laini said with a sigh, turning and diving into the water with the others.

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

Moyo seemed really hurt by that.

“Sorry you two had to see that,” she apologized. “Look I don't know who here could help ya but... truth is they probably won't.”

“Well... what if we help you instead?” Sarabi suggested.

“Pardon?” Moyo looked back at them in confusion.

“Ma Tembo said we'd need to help others on our way back home in order to make it,” Mrembo explained.

“Oooh, she do the water trumpet thing?” Moyo asked with a grin. “Well...” she looked at the two of them. “Hmm... actually there might be a couple things you could help with, not sure anyone could talk sense into Poa but...” a smile crept onto her face. “Maybe if they see us workin together, they'll start to realize we don't need to keep fighting like this!”

“That's... optimistic,” Sarabi said with a nervous smile. What were they getting themselves into?

“There's two things on my mind right now,” Moyo said. “I'm worried the lakes drainin out the chasm too fast fer one, if we could block it up a bit, that'd slow it down enough to stabilize it.”

“Alright, and the other?” Mrembo asked.

Moyo looked back towards the Hippos. “... Poa's a bull of his word... but he only said he'd attack if'n the Crocs dug any nests,” she smiled. “Didn't say anything about the three of us.”

“I'm not sure what's scarier, the thought of getting near a Crocodile nest, or the thought of pissing off a bull Hippo.” Mrembo said with a shudder.

“Oh that's just cause you don't know ‘em yet,” Moyo said. “Come on, eggs first, I'll introduce ya'll.”

“Are we really doing this?” Mrembo asked in a whisper as she and Sarabi followed behind Moyo.

“I'm sure it will be fine,” Sarabi whispered back. Though admittedly she was a little nervous as well. It wasn't that Ma Tembo had made it sound like this would be easy but... what were they supposed to do? She and Mrembo barely got along and they'd been traveling together for almost two weeks.

Walking a ways down the shores of the lake, the group came across the Crocodiles.

“We need to act now!” One of them hissed, standing in front of Kuuma. “We cannot afford to wait any longer!”

“You know we cannot take them all on,” the larger Crocodile said with a sigh.

“Our eggs won't last much longer like this,” another female said sadly.

Kuuma rumbled deeply, before Moyo cleared her throat. “Maybe we can help with that?”

“Well, if it isn't the little Otter,” one of the Crocodiles scoffed. “Here with another bright idea that will doom us?”

“Quite Kina,” Kuuma hissed. “Moyo... why have you brought these Hunters here?”

“These two are Mrembo and Sarabi,” Moyo introduced the pair. “They're trying to get home after the flood, but in the meantime they're lookin to help out around here.”

“Really?” Kuuma asked, seemingly unconvinced.

“And how exactly do you plan to do that?” One of the females asked with a scoff. “Lead us to another lake we can't have?”

“Nope, we're gonna make your nests for ya,” the Otter said proudly.

The Crocodiles groaned.

“Just listen,” Moyo defended. “Poa said he'd only get violent if any of ya'll started digging, way I see it, he ain't got space to complain if we do, ‘specially seen as these two ain't even Riverfo-err, ain't from around here.”

Kuuma seemed to consider it for a moment.

“You can't be seriously considering this,” Kina asked with a groan. “You really think Poa will care about semantics?”

“What other choice do we have?” Kuuma muttered. “The eggs have less time left than it would take to find a new place to nest.”

“Sounds like we're in business then!” Moyo cheered. “Sarabi, you seem like the strong type, you help me start digging out some mud for the nests, Mrembo, can you start gathering material? Leaves, twigs, grass. As much as you can.”

For someone who barely came up to their knees, she had a very take charge attitude when it came to getting things done.

“Alright,” Sarabi said with a nod, following Moyo's lead as they started to dig out mud and building the base of the nest, while Mrembo used her speed to the best of her ability, gathering as much plant material as she could, which the Otter started piling up into the nests proper.

Kuuma had to admit, for the handiwork of a bunch of furry things, they weren't half bad.

As they were finishing up the second nest, about half of what they needed, they heard a commotion from the water.

“Kuuma!” Poa bellowed, rising up from the water. “I told you that...” he gawked a bit, seeing all the Crocodiles hanging back, while Moyo and two Cats were building nests. “Moyo,” he glowered. “What is the meaning of this?”

“Afternoon Poa,” Moyo said with a smile. “Just doin’ a little construction is all.”

He grit his teeth. “I can see that, but I also remember saying what I'd do if any nests were made.”

“Technically that was just directed at the Crocodiles if I remember,” Moyo said. “And you know me, I can't help but help.”

“Mhm... and these... Hunters?” He asked, watching as Mrembk returned with another armful of materials.

“Just some friends who're also looking to help out,” Moyo explained. The two Cats looking at the Otter strangely. Friends?

“Hm... well, if they're not the Crocodiles, then they won't mind if I do this,” he said, coming out of the water and moving to smash one of the nests.

“I wouldn't if I were you,” Sarabi growled. “I don't like when people mess with my things.”

“Yeah?” He asked, turning to face her. “And what're you going to do about it, Lion?”

“Hey hey, there's no need for things to get hostile,” Moyo said, putting herself in between the two of them. “Poa... come on, you don't wanna see a buncha kids die do you?”

The Hippo turned his glare down to the Otter, before snorting. “Keep your damn nests! But if I see any of you in the lake, I'll be back.”

With that, he charged back into the water. Moyo letting out a sigh of relief. “See? Told ya he was a bull of his word.”

“Do you have a death wish or something?” Mrembo asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Hey, I know I don't look like much, but I can hold my own in a scrap,” the Otter said confidently. “Now come on, we've still got a couple of nests to build.”

The work continued without any further interruptions, with Kuuma and the others inspecting their work as the two muddy Cats and the Otter stood nearby.

“Not bad, I have to admit, you're good with your hands Moyo,” Kuuma said, nodding to the others who started placing the eggs within the new nests.

“I'm just glad we could help out is all,” Moyo said with a grin.

“Well... they'll at least be safe until they hatch,” Kuuma sighed. “But without access to the lake, food is going to be an issue.”

“Oh don't you worry none, I'm sure ol Poa’ll come around,” Moyo said confidently. “We're all Riverfolk after all.”

Kuuma rolled her eyes. “Yes well... you have our thanks Moyo, but... we still have much to discuss.”

“Right,” Moyo nodded, seeming a little let down by the dismissal. “Come on gals, we got a river to block.”

“I know we're supposed to help,” Sarabi whispered to Mrembo as they followed behind the Otter. “But are we really just gonna follow her around and do stuff?”

“Mmm... maybe we need a more direct approach to the problem,” Mrembo considered.

“So, like I said,” Moyo said, leading the two towards where the river was flowing out of the valley. “I'm worried this place is gonna drain out and make all of this pointless anyway. But if we can dam it up a bit, that should give the lake time to settle in.”

“That sounds... complicated,” Sarabi said.

“Not really, I just need ya'lls help to drop some big rocks in by the mouth of the river,” she said, gesturing to the boulders that sat near the mouth of the chasm leading out of the valley.

“... well, good luck with that,” Mrembo said, patting the Lioness on the back.

“What? Seriously?” She groaned.

“Do I look like I'm built for this kind of work?” Mrembo asked.

“Ugh, fine,” the Lioness muttered. “I have to do everything around here.”

“Alright, so just try to get ‘em close to the mouth of the chasm,” Moyo directed.

“Yeah yeah,” Sarabi huffed, putting her hands on one of the boulders and pushing.

It rocked a little.

“Hmm... Mrembo, are you sure you're not gonna help?” Moyo called back to the Cheetah.

“I can do it! Hrrrawwwwwr!” Her huffing turned into a full on roar as she gave the boulder another shove, this time sending it rolling into the river.

“Ah!” Moyo jumped back. “Okay, now how about-”

Without waiting for direction, Sarabi started shoving, or in some cases, tossing, the boulders into the river.

“Your friend is scary strong,” Moyo said, moving to sit over by Mrembo.

“We're not friends,” Mrembo replied, watching as the Lion hefted a boulder onto her shoulders. She was impressive to watch work.

“Oh, ah'm sorry, your partner,” Moyo corrected.

“What?” Mrembo looked at her in confusion. Before realizing what she meant. “By the Spirits no!” She cried out, startling the Otter. “L-look,” Mrembo continued. “We're just working together to get back home... we're useful to each other, that's it.”

“Oh,” Moyo said, looking deflated. “My mistake...”

“Well you don't need to look so defeated,” Mrembo sighed.

“Ah just... there ain't a lot of people who care about others outside of their kind these days,” Moyo said sadly. “Especially Hunters... guess I just thought I'd finally met some kindred spirits.”

“Is that what the whole... Riverfolk thing is?” Mrembo asked. “You've used the word a couple of times.”

“Heh, just... something I came up with when I was a pup,” she admitted. “I always used to try and play with the calves from a local pod... ma would tell me off, sayin ‘ya can't trust all the folks in the river Moyo’,” she rubbed the back of her head. “I kinda took the opposite lesson from all her talks.”

“... ya know Moyo, I think the savannah could use more people like you,” Mrembo said, watching Sarabi work for a moment before getting up. “I'm gonna try something,” she said.

Rushing towards the cliffs of the chasm, she grabbed a tree branch from the river bank and walked past the panting Lion. “Take a break, I've got an idea.”

“What?” Sarabi watched as the Cheetah ran at the cliff, running up the wall before jumping up a foothold. “What're you doing?” Sarabi called.

“This is taking too long, I think if I can find... ahah!” She jammed the tree branch into a crack in the chasm.

“Mrembo, whatever you're doin, be careful!” Moyo called, watching as she Cheetah stepped onto the tree branch and started to bounce. “That's not careful!”

“Oh relax! I know what I'm doing!” She said, watching the cliff as she levered some of the rocks that had been loosened by the rushing wall of water that had crashed into it.

Soon, a cracked splintered up the wall, and as the branch began to give out Mrembo leapt into the air, flipping backwards and landing on the banks of the river as part of the rock wall collapsed. Filling in the holes of the makeshift dam Sarabi had started.

“Hoooowe! Ya'll've been holdin out on me!” Moyo cheered, jumping to pat the Cheetah on the back.

“Whoa...” Sarabi said, eyes wide. She knew the Cheetah was agile, but that was something else entirely.

“What? You can't be the only one who gets to show off,” Mrembo said, nudging the Lioness.

“Now this is looking nice!” Moyo called from a top one of the partially submerged rocks. “Flows much slower now that it's gotta work around all of this!”

“Furry thing!”

“Gah!” Moyo nearly fell back into the river as one of the Tigerfish poked its head out.

It... might have been the same one from earlier? It was hard to tell.

“Oh, uh... hi, there uh... sorry, I didn't catch your name earlier,” Moyo greeted, the two Cats on edge now that the Otter was stranded out there with the Fish in the river.

“Names are not important! What is important is why you are messing with river!” He... she... they demanded.

“We're not messing with it... okay we are, but it's for a good cause,” Moyo explained. “These here rocks'll help keep the lake from draining too fast, least til the water fully settles.”

The Tigerfish looked at her in confusion. “You protecting the lake for us?” They asked.

“Ah'm protecting it for everyone,” Moyo corrected. “We all need somewhere to live, we all need the water, ain't no reason we can't share the space.”

“Bah! You don't need. We need. You can survive land, but not us,” they shook their head.

“I know you need the water more,” Moyo said with a sigh. “But... well, watch this.”

She jumped and dove into the water, swimming quickly around the Tigerfish, veering off for a second and chasing something before he surfaced near them with a fish in her mouth.

“My kind can survive on land just fine, but we can only really hunt in the water, same as you, and the Crocs,” Moyo explained, taking the fish from her mouth. “And the Hippos and Bullfrogs are in the same basket as you, their skin can't handle bein out of the water too long. They dry up, start to burn somethin fierce.”

“Same... basket,” they seemed to consider that for a moment. “Most do not bother with us, too strange they say.”

Moyo smiled and held the fish out to them. “Maybe they just haven't gotten to know you yet.”

“A gift?” They asked, surprised.

“Yeah, consider it a peace offerin,” she said. “Just... promise me you'll at least think about what I've been sayin?”

They seemed to consider that for a moment, before quickly snatching the fish. “Accepted.”

With that, they dove back under water, swimming back into the lake.

“That went... well?” Sarabi guessed. She couldn't really get a read on the Fish.

“It at least seemed positive,” Moyo said, jumping out of the water. “Woo! You two showin up just plum made my day.”

Mrembo chuckled, she didn't fully understand everything the Otter was trying to do. But she appreciated her attitude.

“Glad we could help but now what?” Sarabi asked. “This all seems like bandages, no offense.”

“No, you're right,” Moyo sighed. “We can help folks with their problems, but if they won't talk through their problems we're never gonna get anywhere.”

“It's gonna get dark soon,” Mrembo said with a sigh, once it was clear no answers would be easily forthcoming. “You should get back to your raft.”

She sighed. “Yeah, I ‘spose so... hey wait. Ya'll've been helpin me all day, have ya'll had anything to eat?”

“Not since yesterday,” Mrembo admitted. “Normally I try to catch us something a little closer to evening once we've made camp.”

“Tell ya what, you two set up camp, I'll catch ya some supper,” Moyo said with a grin.

“Moyo, that's very kind of you but-” Sarabi began.

“No buts! I insist, ya'll're my guests here,” she jumped back into the river. “Ah'll meet ya back by the lake.”

With that, she swam off, leaving the Cats alone.

“She's... an odd one, isn't she?” Sarabi said.

“Maybe, I like her though,” Mrembo replied, heading towards the lake. “It's a better attitude than ‘I've got mine, screw yours’.”

“I suppose so,” Sarabi admitted. It wasn't like she was unfamiliar with the concept, she came from a pride after all. It was just weird having it coming from someone else. Especially since it... didn't really benefit her or her raft.

It'd be way easier to just stay out of the way.

The pair found a nice patch of dry, solid ground to set up camp on, and soon enough, their Otter friend popped her head up out of the water. “Someone order a fish fry?” She asked, hoping out with a couple of large fish in her arms.

“You know you don't have to do this,” Sarabi said.

“Speak for yourself, I'm hungry,” Mrembo huffed, already getting the fire started.

“I just mean, it's not like we're doing this out of the goodness of our hearts,” Sarabi continued.

“I know, you need directions,” Moyo recalled. “But the way I see it, you're still willing to help, and that's gotta count fer somethin.”

“Well, if you'd like, you can join us for dinner,” Mrembo offered, getting the fish ready to cook.

“That's kind of ya, but I oughta be gettin back to my raft,” Moyo said. “Might bring the Crocs something too, seein as Poa banned em from the lake.”

“Just remember to take care of yourself too,” Sarabi spoke up. “It won't do anyone any good if you work yourself to the bone.”

Moyo chuckled as she slid back into the water. “I'll keep that in mind, see you gals in the morning,” she'd try to think up some plans tonight.

For now though, she had some fishing to do.

~~~

Both Cats realized a couple of things the next morning as they woke up. First, they'd apparently forgotten to set a watch last night, as they were both waking up at the same time.

The second being related to the first, as they only realized the first thing when they woke up, sitting up with a start... right next to each other. It was only because they'd jolted awake that they didn't know whether or not they'd been cuddling.

The third thing, and the one that more immediately grabbed their attention... someone was shouting again.

“Guess we're starting early today,” Sarabi said, getting up and running in the direction of the shouting.

“So much for beauty sleep,” Mrembo yawned, stretching as she got up to follow.

They soon came across the source of the shouting, as a crowd had once again gathered. And Poa was once again the center.

The Hippo was tightly holding the arm of a young male Crocodile, the Bull staring up and shouting at Kuuma, while the boy looked... terrified.

A few of the other Hippos were there, and Crocodiles, as well as one of the Bullfrogs, and a few Tigerfish were watching from the river.

And of course, Moyo was already there.

“I told you not to enter the lake!” Poa shouted, squeezing the Crocodiles by the arm. “But you lizards can't even follow that direction! Now you either leave, or we start breaking spInes.”

“He's a child!” Kuuma hissed, getting as close to the Hippo as she dared without fearing he'd hurt the boy. “You bluster and threaten and we have done nothing to you!”

“It's. Ours.” He growled. “And anyone who doesn't agree can clear out!”

“Just stop it!” Moyo shouted. “It doesn't need to be like this! We can share the lake! I even thought up how we can-”

“Enough from you!” Poa shouted, stomping the ground. “You and yours can leave too! I've had enough of your nonsense!”

Moyo didn't seemed deterred. “But if ya'll'd just listen to me for a sec, I know we can-!”

Poa bellowed loudly, and wielded the young Crocodile like a cudgle, swinging him at Moyo and throwing him, sending both of them tumbling.

The Crocodile quickly scrambled to his feet, rushing back to Kuuma and the others.

Moyo groaned, lying there dazed as Poa approached her.

Sarabi and Mrembo both rushed forward, putting themselves between the Hippo and the Otter. Sarabi's lips pulling back as she growled, while Mrembo’s ears folded back as the Cheetah hissed.

He just glared at them. “Out of the way Cats, this doesn't concern you.”

“Maybe I just don't like bullies,” Sarabi replied.

“Gals... don't get involved in this,” Moyo warned, standing to her feet. “Poa, please, ah know yer just trying to do right by your pod, but maybe if you-”

“You question my authority?!” He bellowed, surging past the Cats and shoving them to the side. Before grabbing Moyo. “You think you know so much better?! You know nothing! You rat!”

He threw the Otter into the lake, the Tigerfish scattering as he stepped in as well. “You're so desperate to lead, to interfere? Fine, I challenge you for the right to rule!”

Everyone gasped, even the Crocodiles and Cats. That was a challenge not to be taken or given lightly, and it was unheard of to issue it to one not of your own kind.

“Have you lost it?!” Moyo shouted.

“Refuse and leave, with all your friends, or accept and die... and I promise I'll still allow some of your raft to survive.”

A switch flipped in Moyo when he said that. She could handle the threats, the insults, the belittlement, so long as it was aimed at her. But she would not let someone threaten her raft.

“Fine! You wanna fight so bad? I'll give you one!” Moyo shouted, diving underwater, Poa giving chase.

Sarabi and Mrembo rushed to the edge of the lake, joined by pretty much everyone else.

“What do we do?” Mrembo asked.

“Nothing we can do,” Sarabi shook her head. “Just have to hope she has another plan.”

Underwater, the lake was a very odd sight. Fully submerged trees, and ground still covered in grasses, swayed in the current. Some of the trees still appearing fully alive.

Moyo swam around one such trunk as Poa barreled after her. She knew he'd have a hard time catching her, but he was also nearly ten times her size, and made of solid muscle.

If he laid a hand on her, it was over.

‘So I just gotta tucker him out then,’ she told herself, dodging through some tree branches which he then had to crash through.

Poa's powerful muscles pushed his bulk through the water, keeping him at pace with the slender Otter.

Moyo knew she was going to have to get creative, she swam downwards, hugging what had once been the floor of the valley, Poa having to take a moment to sink after her. Swimming around a tree, she grabbed onto a still supple tree branch, pulling it back and letting it snap forward as Poa rounded the corner.

The Hippo grunted as it connected with his gut. A few air bubbles escaping his nose as he glared at Moyo.

The Otter dodged around his reaching arms, swimming up and pushing off of his head, his head craning back and jaws snapping as she did.

Moyo swore she lost a few hairs from that one. She surfaced for air, literally jumping out of the water, but Poa didn't even bother with the distraction.

Diving back down, he was right on her tail again. But she saw an opening, literally, in the trunk of an old submerged Baobab.

There was no way he'd fit in there, and, hopefully, there'd be an exit from the trunk further up.

Playing hide and seek didn't seem like the most honorable way to survive this, but at the moment she didn't care.

Swimming inside, she immediately turned and swam up the trunk, pausing about half way up before hearing a crack behind her and watching Poa cave in the trunk to squeeze after her.

She continued upwards, the trunk narrowing, Moyo beginning to fear she was going to he trapped in here with a raging Hippo, before she spotted a beam of light and dashed through a hole to the outside.

Poa roared in rage and pushed up after her... and pushed up after her.

With a start, he realized that while the base of the tree had been brittle enough to break, it was a different story halfway up the trunk and inside.

Snarling, he tried to sink back down, only to feel the wood squeeze his midsection.

His eyes went wide as he realized his predicament. The Hippo wriggling and flexing to try and get free. His lungs beginning to burn as he realized, with no small amount of horror, that his roar had used up he last of the air in his lungs.

He was trapped, and he was either going to suffocate or drown.

And worse yet... he'd lost.

Moyo cautiously peeked back into the tree trunk, seeing the Hippo stuck there brought a brief smile to her face, before she noticed something in his eyes that she'd never seen on a Hippo before.

Fear.

She dove back down, looking at him from below, and realized his situation.

Back on the shore, Sarabi and Mrembo were realizing that despite the anxiety of the situation, watching an underwater battle was boring when you weren't underwater.

“So we're running if he comes back right?” Sarabi whispered.

“I say we go grab the Otters and book it,” Mrembo agreed.

A gasp from the crowd brought their attention back to the lake, the two Cats gawking as Moyo surfaced and swam towards them.

And she wasn't being followed.

“Help!” She called out. “Poa got himself stuck! He's runnin outta air!”

Everyone just looked at each other, the Hippos staring in disbelief as the Crocodiles whispered amongst themselves.

“What're ya’ll standing around for?!” Moyo shouted, turning to the Hippos. “Yer just gonna let him die?!”

“We can't interfere until a winner has been decided!” One called. “If you concede...”

Moyo understood that as a warning, if she conceded, she'd have to put her faith in Poa's gratitude that he wouldn't make good on his promise.

... she couldn't let him die down there though.

“Fine! I-” She was cut off by a splash, as Sarabi jumped into the water.

“Lead me there,” the Lioness stated. “I'll get him out.”

Moyo looked between her and the Hippos, before nodding, taking the Lions hand, Sarabi taking a deep breath as they submerged.

Moyo led her right to the Baobab, leaving her at the base as she went up to look at Poa again.

He was no longer moving, but hadn't gone limp. Moyo realized with a start that he'd given up.

Looking up at the Otter... his glower slowly turned to a soft look of respect as he nodded to her.

Moyo looked back at Sarabi, gesturing wildly.

The Lioness looked up into the trunk, she might be able to pull him out but Moyo seemed panicked, and the Hippo wasn't moving.

She braced herself on the bottom of the lake, her feet sinking into the mud, grabbing either side of the hole Poa had busted through, and began to pull. Her muscles straining as she did.

Moyo looked at her in confusion for a second, before she heard a creaking, squealing, cracking coming from the tree. A long crack going from the large hole at its base to the one at the top as, veins popping on her neck, Sarabi pulled the tree apart with a mighty roar.

Moyo rushed into the mess of splintering wood, swimming under Poa’s shoulder and kicking with all her might.

Sarabi pushed up off the lake bed... or tried. Looking down, she was ankle deep in the mud, and couldn't seem to pull herself free.

Panicked, her lungs burning, she watched as Moyo and Poa’s silhouettes shrank as they neared the surface.

Mrembo paced back and forth on the shore. This was taking too long. In reality it had only been a minute, but it felt like an eternity.

“There!” One of the Hippos pointed as Moyo and Poa broke the surface. A few of them rushing forward to help the prone Bull and exhausted Otter to the shore.

But no Lioness appeared.

“Moyo! Where's Sarabi?” Mrembo asked, panic rising in her voice.

Moyo looked back at the lake. “She was right behind us...” she moved to dive back in, but stumbled. “Come on, Spirts be damned,” she panted, trying to drag herself back into the water.

“Save your strength,” Kuuma said, before diving in with a splash.

The next few seconds were probably some of the longest of Mrembo’s life. But soon, the Crocodile reappeared, a soaked, limp Lioness in her arms.

“Sarabi!” Moyo and Mrembo both rushed to her as Kuuma placed her down on the shore. The Cheetah arriving first and kneeling beside her.

It didn't look like she was breathing. “No... nononono.” This couldn't be happening.

Moyo stumbled over, putting an ear to Sarabi’s chest.

“Mrembo!” She called, getting the Cheetah's attention. “Put your hands on her chest and start pushing.”

“What?” Mrembo looked at her in confusion.

“If you want yer friend to live then do what I say!” Moyo shouted.

The Cheetah didn't question that, putting her hands on Sarabi's chest and pushing down.

“Just keep doing that... come on gal, don't give up on us,” Moyo whispered to Sarabi, before leaning down and locking lips with the Lioness, breathing into her.

Sarabi's eyes fluttered open, the Lioness sitting up with a start as she coughed up water.

“Wh-what the-” she stammered.

“Sarabi!” Moyo cheered, jumping and wrapping her arms around her shoulders. “Ah'm so sorry!”

“Gah! Wh-what're you-hey!” She cried out as Mrembo likewise wrapped her arms around her.

“I'm glad you're okay,” the Cheetah said quietly.

Sarabi hesitated a moment before returning the hug to both of them.

“Careful Mrembo,” she whispered back. “You're dangerously close to saying you care about me.”

Mrmebo chuckled. Hearing that... it didn't hurt this time. Both Cats knowing there was at least some honesty to the statement.

“Uh... gals,” Moyo squeaked. “Do... you mind?” The Otter was squished between the two larger Cats.

They looked at each other for a moment, before laughing as they broke the hug.

“I'm glad you're alright too,” Mrembo said, ruffling the Otters hair.

“Same,” Sarabi added.

Moyo smiled at the pair, before turning and sighing. “Looks like this ain't over yet,” she said, Mrembo and Sarabi turning to see several Hippos approaching, along with Poa.

“Moyo,” the Bull Hippo said, looking down at the Otter as she got to her feet. Mrembo and Sarabi on either side of her.

“Poa,” she replied. “You done with all this foolishness?”

Poa sighed, before dropping to a knee, the other Hippos following suit. “You have bested me in the right to rule, and spared my life... the pod and the lake are yours.”

Moyo’s mouth fel agape. “You serious right now?” She asked, looking to him and the other Hippos. All of them looking at her deferentially.

“Though I have lost, and acted with shame... I would beseech you to allow me to remain a member of your pod, at least until my calves are grown,” he continued.

“... you really are serious,” she realized. “I uh... well, shoot. Yeah, you can stay. Ah didn't do all of this just to start kicking folks out.”

“Thank you,” Poa said with a nod. “If I have your permission, I shall gather the others and inform them of what has transpired.”

“Uh... yeah, of course, permission granted,” she nodded. Poa nodding back as he turned and headed back towards the rest of the pod.

The other Hippos stayed though, still kneeling in front of the Otter.

“... ya'll can get up,” Moyo said. “If'n yer gonna be part of my raft, ya gotta learn that that ain't how we do things.”

“Yes ma’am,” they nodded and stood up.

Moyo sighed, looking around, she saw the Crocodiles had all gathered and were discussing something.

“So... this means I have authority to make decisions right? And you lot'll respect ‘em?” Moyo asked.

“Of course,” one of the other Bulls said with a nod. “The pod-er, raft of Moyo will follow your every word.”

“Great... hey Kuuma! Ya got a sec?” Moyo called, the Hippos following her as she walked towards the Crocodiles.

“Did an Otter just become leader of a bunch of Hippos?” Sarabi asked, still shocked.

“Apparently,” Mrembo replied. “And I think she's gonna invite the Crocs to stay.”

She looked at Sarabi and smiled. They’d... probably need to talk later. But for now...

“Come on, let's make sure she doesn't get eaten,” the Cheetah said.

“So, I know ya'll ain't really a group,” Moyo said as she addressed Kuuma. “But-”

“Actually,” Kuuma interrupted. “With everything that's happened, we've decided to form a float, for as long as we're living at this lake.”

“Oh! Alright,” Moyo nodded. “Do ya'll need to have a challenge of your own or...?”

“Normally yes,” Kuuma said. “Though... we decided to forgo it this time, as it was obvious to all who our leader should be.”

“Heh, yeah that tracks,” Moyo chuckled. “So Kuuma, ah wanted to-ah cripes.”

She watched as the Crocodiles all kneeled before her.

“... seriously?” The Otter asked in shock.

“Seriously,” Kuuma smirked. “You led us to a new home, saved our eggs, fed us, and stood your ground against a Hippo on our behalf. Even I cannot compete with you.”

“Well... shoot,” she turned back to the Hippos. “Is this gonna be a problem?”

They hesitated for a moment. “Not if you say it isn't.”

“Some of the pod might disagree, but you're our leader, if you decide that we're all one raft now... we will follow,” another nodded.

“As will we,” Kuuma nodded. “So long as you prove yourself worthy to lead.”

“Well ah'll certainly do my best,” Moyo said, rubbing the back of her head. “... seems like ah'm on a roll so... might as well give this a shot.”

She rushed back to the waters edge, where several of the Tigerfish were still watching.

“So... do ya'll get what's going on?” Moyo asked, addressing them generally.

“You all form school,” one spoke.

“You control lake,” another added, looking between the Otter, the Hippos, and the Crocs.

“Something like that,” Moyo said, still a little unclear herself. “I'm making an official offer to all of you, you can stay here, call this lake home, so long as you remain friendly with everyone else living here.”

The Tigerfish looked between each other, muttering and mumbling amongst themselves.

“We would... join your school?” One of them asked.

“Ah mean, it don't need to be anything official like that,” Moyo said, rubbing the back of her head. “Just so long as you agree to keep the peace, talk with us about any problems ya'll have, be a part of the community.”

“We will join your school,” several of them said at once. With others joining in after the fact.

What followed was... several very hectic hours for the young Otter. As her ‘rule’ was effectively cemented. The rest of the Hippos and Otters were informed by Poa and Moyo, the latter, especially Laini, looking extremely shocked that Moyo had actually pulled this off.

The remaining Tigerfish were organized into the school, and the odds and ends of the Bullfrogs, Flamingos and the like were told they were free to stay, without joining Moyo's raft, so long as they agreed to act peacefully with everyone else.

Plans and rules were made as far as fishing and hunting were concerned, and near the end of the day, as everyone gathered near the shore where they'd been arguing just a day earlier. The lake was given an official name.

Ziwa la Amani.

The Lake of Peace.

“Personally, I think it's a little on the nose,” Mrembo said, cooking some fish, as well as a few crabs.

“Pfff, shut up,” Moyo laughed, shoving the Cheetah playfully.

Right now, it was just Sarabi, Mrembo, and Moyo around a small fire. The new ‘Queen’ as Sarbai had taken to calling her, taking a moment to relax with her friends.

“Ya know this wouldn't have happened if ya'll hadn't shown up,” Moyo said. “Ah was pretty close to giving up there for a minute, but...”

“Don't give us too much credit,” Sarabi said. “It was your dream to make this happen, we just helped give it a little push.”

“Still, I appreciate it a lot, and ah swear, first thing tomorrow I'm gonna get everyone together and figure out who knows how to get you home.”

“Thanks Moyo,” Sarabi said, passing out the fish as it finished cooking. “To Queen Moyo, long may she reign.”

“Here here!” Mrembo cheered.

“Please don't go spreading that around,” Moyo groaned. “Ah don't wanna be Queen, ah just wanna be Moyo.”

“Moyo could still be a queen,” Sarabi pointed out. “But alright, we'll stop.”

Moyo smiled, and the Otter began talking about her plans for the future of her new, greatly expanded raft.

Eventually, she excused herself, heading back into the water to meet up with the rest of the Otters. She'd been... kinda neglecting them the past few days, she needed to apologize and make sure everything was alright.

That left the Cats once again alone by the fire.

The silence was... awkward.

“So... about earlier,” Mrembo began.

“You don't have to say anything,” Sarabi interrupted. “I know it was stupid to risk my life like that, especially when we're supposed to be working together.”

“... Do you really think that's what I was going to say?” Mrembo asked sadly.

“Maybe... maybe it's just what I wanted it to be about,” the Lioness admitted. “I... don't want to complicate things.”

“Bit late for that,” Mrembo said with a sigh. “Sarabi I... I was scared I'd lost you. Not that I'd lost my protection. That I'd lost you.”

“... I didn't want that to be the last time I saw you,” Sarabi admitted. “And when I saw your face when I woke up... I was so relieved.”

The two looked at each other, neither sure what to say.

“I'm no good at this... I've never spent this much time with someone other than my family,” Mrembo admitted. “But... friends?”

Sarabi smiled. “Yeah, friends,” she said, leaning in and hugging the Cheetah.

“Oh! Uh...” Mrembo slowly returned the hug. Before, when she thought Sarabi had died, it'd just been a reflex, following Moyo’s lead. This was much more intentional in a way Mrembo was unfamiliar with.

She didn't hate it though.

Sarabi broke the hug after a moment, looking away shyly. “Why don't I take first watch tonight?” Sarabi offered. “You did all the cooking after all.”

“I always do the cooking,” she deadpanned. “You almost died.”

“... please don't remind me,” Sarabi whispered. “I get why you're afraid of the water now.”

This time it was Mrembo who initiated the hug. Wrapping her arms around the Lioness from behind. “It's alright,” Mrembo assured her. “We'll be more careful, look after each other... friends.”

“Friends,” Sarabi repeated, putting her hand over one of Mrembo's. “Thanks Mrembo.”

“Anytime Sarabi,” Mrembo assured her. “Get some rest, I'll wake you in a bit.”

Sarabi nodded and lay her head down. Mrembo watching as her breathing slowed.

Things were going to be different now. She could feel it. She just wished she knew what that meant.