A Cheetah's Joy

A Cheetah's Joy is a story by PrinceBalto.

Premise
This is the followup to A Cheetah's Shame. Here, we learn that Kion has survived and is filled with glee when he finally awakens. This follows the same format as the first story, and we also learn more regarding Kion and Fuli's relationship, including that, yes, they were boyfriend and girlfriend by the time that the Guard was brought together, but didn't officially become mates until their marriage as young adults. We also see a glimpse of when they met as babies. In my canon, Fuli's mom is named Tela, while her father is named Khoonda.

Story
This is how it feels to be Fuli, right now.

As you sit there, recovering from your deep sadness, something wonderful happens. Kion's eyes snap open. For a long moment, you are speechless. You thought that your boyfriend, whom you have been with since before the new Guard came together, is alive. You think back to the horror of Scar nearly killing him. You remember your tears and the feeling of powerlessness they brought on you. In one moment, however, all of that vanishes like the wind blowing away dust. It is replaced by an overwhelming sense of joy.

You can't resist nuzzling him.

Of all the members of the Guard, you have known Kion the longest. You knew him before you ever met Jasiri, Honey, Beshte and Ono. You two met as babies. That day, your mothers were taking you out for a walk when you all encountered one another. You cautiously approached the infant lion, looking at him intently, studying him. Then, in a second, you reached out and placed your paw on his nose, eliciting "aww's" from both Queen Nala and your mother Tela. As you grew into cubhood, something changed between you both. You became Kion's girlfriend. How could you say no when he asked you to be the Guard's fastest?

But, now, you are no longer in danger of losing him.

You smile cockily. Watch out, Scar. You failed to kill the lion cub who was both the leader of the Lion Guard and tetrarch of the Pridelands. At his side, you will stay. No one in the Pridelands can separate you two. Kion moves unsteadily to his feet, and you two look into each other's eyes. The deep love between you two, impressive for your age, is clearly visible. You ask Jasiri, Honey, Beshte and Ono to give you two some privacy. For a moment, you place your paw on his nose, a nodd to your first meeting. You both then reaffirm your love. He then responds by nuzzling you. Together, you two are unstoppable.

This is how it feels to be Fuli, right now.