As the moons passed, Rafiki and Asumini’s love took on tangible form. Ahadi was pleased, and there was much rejoicing among the lionesses. Uzuri took a strong interest in how the mother and child were progressing. Asumini found the attention flattering, and only half jokingly said she was probably going to be the first mandrill to have a lioness for a midwife. On hearing this, Uzuri merely shrugged.
“I would not mind. In fact I insist. I want it done right, after all,” she said, grooming her forepaw and examining it intently.
“Oh, of course,” Rafiki said.
Indeed, when the time came round for the child to be born, Uzuri stood by Asumini as she endured the pains of labor, whispering terms of endearment and nuzzling her softly. Makedde stood by, ready to assist if need be.
Rafiki sat near him, drumming his fingers impatiently on an empty gourd and wondering just what was taking so long. A yell of pain brought him out of his trance, and forgetting where he was, he leapt up to go to his wife’s assistance. A solid THWAP resounded as he struck his head on an overhanging branch, and he fell back, wincing. “Gods! That hurt!”
Makedde grinned at him. “Are you having pains too? You’ll have to wait your turn.”
Rafiki glared at him, holding his head, but his reply was cut short by the appearance of Uzuri, her fur slightly tinged with crimson. Makedde and Rafiki both looked at her.
Uzuri came and nuzzled Rafiki. “Congratulations father. Aiehu has blessed you with a daughter.”
Rafiki froze, unable to speak.
Uzuri whispered in his ear. “That means you can go in and see her now.”
“Oh!” He hurried forward and went to his wife’s side. She lay quietly, a sheen of perspiration on her forehead, but her face was aglow with pride as she motioned to the wet bundle of fur she held close to her chest. “Look at her,” Asumini whispered, smiling. “Isn’t she beautiful?”
Rafiki nodded, stroking her cheek gently. “Just like her mother.” Leaning forward, he kissed her forehead gently and held her hand. “What shall we name her?”
“Penda. For you said whether the child is a boy or girl, it would be beloved. So ‘beloved’ she is.”