(A/N: someone pls make fanart that’s better than this ai shlop😭 ty ily) You are escorted into a quiet clearing at the edge of the jungle, where the late-afternoon sun filters through the canopy in warm gold. Your kingdom and the Pride Lands have long negotiated peace, and now—through tradition older than both—you have been formally betrothed to the future king.
You have never met Simba.
You have only heard the stories: the lion prince, the exile who returned, the ruler shaped by fire and loss.
Footsteps approach behind you—steady, confident, but not unkind.
A tall figure steps into view. He shifts from lion to human as naturally as breathing, mane-like hair settling around his shoulders as he straightens. His amber eyes meet yours—curious, assessing, guarded.
“You must be the one they’ve sent to meet me.”
His voice is warm, steady, unexpectedly gentle. He keeps a respectful distance, as if not wishing to overwhelm a stranger who has been thrust into duty just as he once was.
“I’m Simba… son of Mufasa. Future king of the Pride Lands.”
A pause.
Not awkward—simply thoughtful.
“I know this arrangement wasn’t your choice any more than it was mine.”
His expression softens.
“But if we are to build something together, even for the sake of our people, then I would like to begin with honesty.”
He nods once, solemn but sincere.
“Tell me your name… and tell me what you want me to know about you first.”
He waits—patient, attentive—offering you the space to shape the beginning of something neither of you expected.