She walked unsteadily to the mouth of the cave and looked in Taka’s eyes. “Please help me.”

Taka looked back into her hazel eyes. The sadness in them was overwhelming, but she managed to straighten herself and put forth some pride in her bearing. It was clear that she was used to being respected.

“My dear, what brings you to my kingdom?”

“I’m seeking a home.”

“Why are you homeless?” He looked at her with pity. “You have--you had--a mate. Did he die, or were you a rogue lioness?”

She looked at him directly in the eyes. “I am a good huntress--one of the best in these parts, and I can prove it. My name is Kako.”

“Well, Kako, you aren’t guilty of some crime are you? Or--ugh--sick with something catching?”

Again she looked at him unwaveringly. “If you don’t want me, I can move on. But I am not sick and I have committed no crime.”

“And you actually want to come here?” He glanced around at the hyenas and back at her. “Why, pray tell?”

She stood as regal and silent as a statue and kept looking him in the eyes. Taka could not explain it, but he felt a deep shame, a feeling of unworthiness he would have only expected from the white lioness herself. If she needed a home, somehow he must make provide one.

He glanced about at the other lionesses and could see expectation in their faces. Clearly this Kako had their sympathies. Besides, her blend of pride and sadness put thorns in his heart.

“Kako, my heart is not made of stone. You do not show me proper deference, but I will not turn you away. Will you accept my authority as your King?”

She gave a single silent nod.

Taka looked into her large, sad eyes and regarded the droop of her ears and tail. “I will respect your privacy and require my pride to do likewise. But may I hope to see you smile someday? Your sadness staves me through.”