Kion X Rani: Tough Love

Chapter 25: First day as King/ Surprising News

As the sun gracefully ascended, painting the horizon with hues of gold and pink, Kion and Rani stirred from their slumber, awakening to embrace the dawn of their reign as the sovereigns of the majestic Tree of Life.

As the sun's first light gently touched the sky, Kion roused from his slumber to find Rani nestled against him, her purrs resonating softly. With a gentle lick to her forehead, he sought to awaken her. After a few tender licks, Rani stirred, her eyes blinking open as she yawned, greeting the new day with a soft murmur.

With a tender smile gracing his features, Kion turned to Rani, his eyes alight with affection, and whispered, "Good morning, beautiful." Rani's heart fluttered at his endearing words as she returned his gaze, her voice soft yet filled with admiration, "Good morning, my big, strong, handsome lion." Rani said as she wrapped her arms around Kion and pulled him into a kiss.

After a while, both lions emerged from their den, ready to embark on their royal duties. "So, what's the plan for today?" Kion inquired, turning to Rani for guidance. "Typically, the King oversees the protection of the Tree of Life's exterior, while the Queen handles internal affairs," Rani explained, her tone carrying a sense of authority blended with warmth. "Ah, so I'll be patrolling with my guard then," Kion deduced, piecing together his role for the day. Rani nodded in agreement. "And what about the Night Pride?" Kion inquired further, curious about the nocturnal guardians of their realm. "They'll be on duty during the night," Rani replied matter-of-factly, her eyes reflecting the confidence of a capable ruler. "Got it. Thanks, Rani. I should get moving," Kion remarked, preparing to depart.

"Kion wait!!" Rani called out, halting Kion in his tracks.

He turned to see her sprinting towards him. With a playful yet affectionate gesture, she pinned him to the ground and planted a kiss on his lips. "Have a good day. If you need any assistance, just let me know," Rani whispered, her words carrying a sense of reassurance. Kion couldn't help but blush, reciprocating the kiss before they reluctantly parted. "Thanks, Rani. You too. And if I need anything, I'll be sure to find you," Kion replied, his voice filled with gratitude and affection as he headed towards where his guard was stationed for the day.

As Kion made his way toward his guard, he found them engaged in lively chatter, their camaraderie evident in their animated gestures and laughter. "Hey, guys," Kion greeted with a smile, drawing their attention. Before anyone could respond, Bunga dashed forward, bowing dramatically before him. "Good morning, Your Majesty," he declared with a mischievous glint in his eyes. Kion rolled his eyes playfully. "Bunga, come on. You know you don't have to do all that in front of me. I'm still just Kion," he said, his tone laced with familiarity and affection.

"But I must, Your Majesty," Bunga teased, his grin widening as he teased his friend. Kion shook his head, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "Okay, say that one more time and see what happens," he challenged, feigning severity.

"Hah! I fear nothing, Your Majesty," Bunga retorted, his playful demeanor undeterred. Kion raised an eyebrow, playing along with the banter. "Alright, you asked for it. I hereby banish Binga from the Tree of Life," he declared with mock solemnity, his eyes dancing with amusement.

Bunga's eyes widened in mock horror. "NOOO! Okay, okay, you win. I'll call you Kion, just spare Binga," he pleaded dramatically, dropping to his knees in a theatrical display. (Bunga had met Binga when they arrived at the Tree of Life after evacuating from the Pride Lands).

Kion chuckled at his friend's antics. "Hmm, fine. Binga gets to stay," he relented, unable to resist Bunga's infectious enthusiasm. Bunga's face lit up with joy. "ZUKA ZAMA!" he exclaimed, leaping into the air with unabashed happiness.