The Lion Guard: A Promising Friendship

The Lion Guard: A Promising Friendship

Kion was playing baobab ball in the meadow with Denahi.

He didn't know that wondrous things would soon be coming to him.

He didn't know that Rafiki was observing him from the shadows of the mango tree.

Rafiki chuckled to himself, he hopped out of the tree and made his way to Pride Rock.

"It is time" Rafiki said.

When Rafiki approached Pride Rock he went inside and embraced Simba and Nala.

"What can we do for you Rafiki?" Nala asked politely.

"Ahh.. Nala I'm here about Kion" Rafiki said.

"What about Kion?" Simba asked.

"He is ready.. To lead The Lion Guard" Rafiki said.

He led Simba and Nala inside the den to explain further.

Meanwhile Kion and Denahi were deeply engrossed in their game of baobab ball.

Kion whacked the ball and sent it flying over Denahi's head.

"Good shot Kion" Denahi said.

"Thanks Denahi" Kion said.

Suddenly the ball bounced over into the Outlands.

"Oh No" Kion said.

He and Denahi peered into the Outlands.

"Oh no, game over" Kion said.

"Says who, I'm not afraid of the Outlands" Denahi said.

"Neither am I, it's just my Dad and Kiara say we shouldn't go there" Kion said.

"Mom and Grandpa are big scaredy cats when it comes to the Outlands" Denahi said.

"They have a good reason to be" Kion said.

"You know what our uncles always say" Denahi said.

Kion rolled his eyes.

Denahi moved back a few paces before running forward and hopping down the stones to the Outlands.

Kion watched his nephew anxiously.

When Denahi landed safely on the ground he began to look around for the fruit.

Finally he spotted it and reached out to grab it with his teeth.

Kion who had been watching from above gasped as he recognized a familiar shape behind Denahi.

"Denahi!, heads up!" He shouted.

Denahi glanced up at his uncle.

"Relax Kion, Hakuna-" Denahi's sentence was cut off as he was lifted up into the air.

Kion gasped as he recognized the hyenas.

"'Matata" Denahi finished.

Jaja and Shenzi had him in a death grip.

Denahi struggled to free himself.

"Hyenas. Let Denahi go. Pick on someone your own size" Kion ordered.

"Kion, you want the lion cub?, come and get him" Shenzi cackled.

"Let him go, you hyenas don't want any trouble with my Dad" Kion ordered again.

He then roared so loudly that Denahi dropped from Shenzi's mouth with surprise.

Kion blinked with confusion at the power of the roar.

He waited for Denahi to join him back on the ledge before running back to Pride Rock.

"Kion what was that?" Denahi asked.

"I don't know Denahi, I'm sure Dad will" Kion said.

As they entered the den Simba, Nala, and Kiara ran over to them.

"Are you ok Denahi?" Kiara asked.

"I'm fine Mom" Denahi said.

Rafiki and Simba exchanged a glance.

"Dad?, what's going on?"' Kion asked.

Simba glanced over Kion's shoulder at Kiara.

Kiara nodded and came up to sit next to Kion.

Simba cleared his throat.

"Son. Rafiki has informed me that you are ready, to lead, The Lion Guard" Simba said.

"What's The Lion Guard?" Kion asked.

"It's the team of lions that protect the Pridelands, it's led by the second cub of the monarch, but since I'm going to become queen, you get to lead it Kion" Kiara explained.

"The Lion Guard was led by your great Uncle Scar, but he abused his power and tried to take down Grandpa Mufasa, the leader of The Lion Guard is gifted with the Roar of the Elders, it makes them the fiercest animal in the Pridelands, however if you abuse it like Scar did, you'll lose it forever" Simba continued.

"Woah" Kion said.

Kiara draped a paw over Kion's shoulder and drew him closer to her.

"It's a big responsibility Kion" she said gently.

"I'm ready for it" Kion said.

Kiara chuckled lightly and gently cuffed him.

"I'm sure you are Kion" she said.

Simba cleared his throat to bring his children back on track.

"Kion I need you to assemble a team of the bravest, strongest, fastest, and keenest of sight" Simba said.

Kion nodded.

"Go on Sweetheart" Kiara said.

Kion wove his body through her legs affectionally, then ran off.

"Mom can I go with him?" Denahi asked.

"Sure Denahi" Kiara said.

Denahi instantly ran off.

Once he was out of sight Kiara turned to Simba with a worried expression.

"Daddy are you sure Kion can handle this, he's just a cub" she said.

Simba rubbed his muzzle against her cheek affectionally.

"Kiara I have faith in him, and besides he won't be alone, he'll have his amazing big sister to help him" Simba said.

"Thanks Daddy" Kiara said.

Simba smiled affectionally at her.

"Anytime my love" he said.

Kiara went over to where Kovu was laying in a patch of sunshine.

She settled down next to him and buried her muzzle into his mane.

"Is something wrong Kovu?" She asked.

Kovu shook his head distractingly.

"I'm fine Darling, I just have a lot on my mind" he said.

"Kovu you've been laying there since midmorning, don't you want to get up and stretch or take a walk or hunt or something?" Kiara asked.

Kovu glanced over her shoulder at where Belee was laying with Vitani.

"I am a little hungry" he said.

Kiara smiled.

"I'll go hunting" she said.

She pressed her muzzle to his cheek before getting up and after informing Simba and Nala, set off to hunt.

Once she had gone, Kovu sighed, glanced up at the sky briefly, and then transferred his gaze to his daughter.

Belee felt her fathers eyes on her and turned to Vitani.

"Aunty is Daddy upset about something?" She asked.

Vitani hesitated, she knew what was bothering Kovu but she didn't know if Belee would understand it.

Finally she sighed.

"Daddy has a lot on his mind Darling" she said.

"What can I do to help?" Belee asked.

"Show Daddy how much you love him" Vitani said.

Belee nodded and bounded over to Kovu.

Meanwhile Kion and Denahi had ventured into the meadow.

"Kion I think I have someone for your team" Denahi said.

"Who Denahi?" Kion asked.

"His name is Bunga, he's Timon and Pumbaa's adopted nephew" Denahi said.

"Let me meet him first" Kion said.

Denahi nodded and led Kion to a small tree.

"Bunga!, come down I have someone I want you to meet!" He shouted.

Bunga hopped down and stood in front of Kion.

Kion smiled at him.

"Hi I'm Denahi's uncle, his mother is my older sister" he said.

Bunga held out his paw and Kion shook it.

"It's a honor to meet you, Denahi talks about you a lot" Bunga said.

"Anyway I'm supposed to lead this thing called The Lion Guard and Denahi tells me you'd be great for it, would you be interested?" Kion asked.

"Isn't The Lion Guard supposed to be made of lions?" Bunga asked.

Kion shrugged,"Hakuna Matata, it won't do any harm to break tradition" he said.

"Good point, why don't you two come inside" Bunga said.

Denahi and Kion followed him inside a hole in the tree.

Meanwhile back at Pride Rock, Belee had joined her father in the sunshine.

"Daddy, you and Mama have always been there for Denahi and I when we needed you, I want to be there for you, is something wrong Daddy, you can tell me" Belee said.

Kovu sighed and smiled gently at his daughter. "Sweetheart, I've been having to deal with a stressful situation that's all, I don't know if there's anything you can do my love, I appreciate the concern though" Kovu said gently. Belee rubbed her head against Kovu's foreleg.

"Aunty said you had a lot on your mind" she said.

Kovu chuckled lightly.

"Aunty is right darling.. As usual" he said.

Belee chuckled.

"I should go find Kia and Nita, we were gonna visit Rafiki today" she said.

Kovu nodded.

"Have fun darling" he said.

He bent down and rasped his tongue over Belee's ear.

Belee nuzzled his foreleg before bounding off.

Meanwhile Denahi and Kion had just finished explaining what had taken place that morning.

"Woah.. Zuka.. Zama, and if your looking for more members I know a few" Bunga said.

Kion blinked with curiosity.

"Who?" He asked.

"Beshte, Fuli, and Ono" he said.

"Who are they?" Kion asked.

Denahi stepped forward.

"They're friends of Bunga's, Beshte is a hippo, Ono is a egret, and Fuli is a cheetah" he said.

Kion nodded.

"I'll have to meet them too, but I can guarantee a spot on the guard for you Bunga" he said.

Bunga beamed.

"Come on Kion" Denahi said.

Kion nodded.

"Bunga lets go meet those friends of yours" he said.

Bunga nodded.

"Follow me" he said.

He led them to a watering hole.

Meanwhile Belee had joined up with Kia and Nita.

"I'm worried about Daddy" Belee said.

Kia lightly brushed her tail along Belee's flank comfortingly.

"Aunty Tani said he had a lot on his mind" she said comfortingly.

"I'm sure Uncle Kovu is fine" Nita said.

Belee nodded.

"Come on let's go to Rafiki's" she said.

Kia and Nita nodded and followed her to Rafiki's tree.

Meanwhile Bunga had led Kion and Denahi over to a lake to introduce them to Beshte.

Beshte was halfway submerged in the water.

"Beshte!, I have someone for you to meet" Bunga said.

Beshte raised himself out of the water and smiled at the newcomers.

"Oh hi Bunga. What's up?" He asked politely.

"This is Kion Beshte, Denahi's uncle" Bunga said.

Beshte nodded politely.

"It's nice to meet you, Denahi talks about you a lot" he said.

Kion smiled.

"I'm supposed to lead The Lion Guard, Denahi and Bunga tell me you'll be a good addition to it, would you like to join?" Kion said.

Beshte thought for a moment.

"Isn't it supposed to be made of lions?" He asked.

Kion shrugged.

"I'm breaking tradition" he said.

Beshte nodded.

"I'd love to join" he said.

Kion and Bunga beamed.

"See you later Beshte" Bunga said.

Suddenly a a egret flew up to them.

"Hi Bunga, hi Beshte" he said.

"Who's this?" Kion asked.

"His name is Ono" Denahi said.

"He has the best sight of anyone I know" Bunga added.

"Hmm. Would you like to join The Lion Guard, I know it's supposed to be made of lions but I'm breaking tradition" Kion said.

Ono thought for a second.

"Sure I'd love to" he said.

"Bunga I think we should introduce him to Fuli next" Denahi said.

Bunga nodded.

"Who's Fuli?" Kion asked.

"She's the fastest cheetah in the Pridelands" Denahi said.

Kion raised a eyebrow.

"Let me meet her" he said.

Bunga nodded.

Kion turned back to Beshte and Ono.

"Can you guys meet me in the meadow in a hour to discuss this?" He asked.

Beshte and Ono nodded.

Kion turned back to Denahi and Bunga.

"Let's go meet Fuli" he said.

They said goodbye to Beshte and Ono before bounding off.

Meanwhile back at Pride Rock, Kiara was pacing nervously back and fourth in the entrance to the den.

Simba and Nala were watching their daughter from inside the den.

Nala leaned towards Simba.

"Kiara seems worried about something doesn't she?" She whispered.

Simba nodded.

"'Kovu's been pretty quiet lately" he said.

Nala's eyes were filled with concern.

"I'll go talk to her" she said.

Simba nodded.

Nala got up and after nuzzling Simba, went over to Kiara.

Kiara glanced up and smiled when she saw Nala walking towards her.

Nala smiled back at her daughter and settled down next to her.

"Are you ok Kiara?" Nala asked.

Kiara sighed.

"I'm worried about Kovu Mom" she said.

She shifted so she could lean her head against Nala's shoulder.

Nala pressed her muzzle to Kiara's forehead.

"I'm sure everything will work out Sweetheart" she said.

Kiara nodded.

Meanwhile Bunga had led Denahi and Kion over to a lake.

Fuli was running circles around the lake.

"Hey Fuli!!" Bunga called.

Fuli halted in her tracks.

"What do you want Bunga!?" She called back.

"I have someone that wants to meet you!" Bunga answered.

Fuli growled and walked over to them.

As she drew nearer to them, Kion was stunned by her beauty.

"Hey Fuli" Denahi said.

"Hi Denahi" Fuli said.

"Fuli, this is Kion, Kion this is Fuli" Bunga said.

Fuli smiled politely at Kion.

"Hi Kion, Denahi talks about you a lot" she said.

Kion was too stunned to answer.

Fuli, Denahi, and Bunga waited twenty minutes for Kion to answer.

Finally Denahi whacked Kion on the shoulder.

"Huh?..What?" Kion stammered.

Denahi rolled his eyes.

"Do you have something to ask Fuli?" He asked patiently.

"Oh. Right" Kion said.

"Go ahead and ask" Denahi said.

"I'm supposed to lead this group called The Lion Guard, and I was wondering if you'd wanna join it, I already recruited Ono, Beshte, and Bunga, but I need another member, would you like to join?" Kion said.

Fuli thought for a second.

"Isn't The Lion Guard supposed to be made of lions?" She asked.

Kion shrugged.

"I'm breaking tradition" he said.

Fuli nodded.

"I'd love too" she said.

Kion beamed.

"Meet us at the meadow in a hour" he said.

Fuli nodded.

Meanwhile back at Rafiki's tree, Kia was examining the herbs with Belee, and Nita were examining the images.

Rafiki was painting a new image on his tree.

Nita slowly went over to him.

"What are you drawing Rafiki?" She asked.

Rafiki turned to her with a smile.

"Come and see for yourself Nita" he said.

Nita moved closer to him and examined the painting.

She blinked in surprise as she recognized the image.

"Is that Kion?" She asked.

Rafiki nodded.

Belee and Kia abandoned the herbs and went over to Nita.

"That's Kion" Kia said.

"What's he doing?" Belee asked.

Rafiki chuckled.

"You'll find out soon enough" he said.

"I feel like somethings is gonna happen" Nita said.

Rafiki chuckled again.

"Well Honey, you just might be right" he said.

Meanwhile back at Pride Rock Kiara had joined Simba who was standing at the peak watching the kingdom.

As Kiara gazed at her homeland she felt a surge of love and pride ripple through her body.

She turned to Simba.

"Daddy Kion's been gone a long time" she said.

Simba nodded.

"I'm sure he's busy assembling his team" he said.

"He's been gone for three hours" Kiara said.

Simba shrugged.

"Daddy I don't know if Kion's ready to lead The Lion Guard, he's just a cub" Kiara said.

Simba sighed patiently.

"Kiara he's almost twelve months old" he said.

"Kion is still a cub, I love him to death but I don't know if he can pull this off" Kiara said.

Simba pressed his muzzle to her cheek.

"Go and find him" he said.

Kiara licked his cheek and bounded off.

Simba chuckled and went inside the den.

Meanwhile Kion and Denahi had said goodbye to Bunga and were heading back to Pride Rock.

Kion had a slightly dazed look on his face as he reflected on how Fuli had looked at him.

He was so lost in his thoughts he didn't notice Denahi calling his name until his nephew whacked him on the head.

"What Denahi" Kion hissed irritably.

Denahi rolled his eyes.

"Kion I can tell something is on your mind, don't deny it you can't keep anything from me" Denahi said.

Kion sighed.

"I was thinking about Fuli" he said.

"Why were you thinking about Fuli?" Denahi asked.

"she's so beautiful and smart. I think I'm in love Denahi" Kion said.

Denahi groaned.

"Kion have you gone insane, you can't be in love with Fuli" he said.

"Why not Denahi" Kion said.

Denahi facepawed.

"Kion don't you see it, she's a cheetah and your a lion, besides she's way out of your league" Denahi said.

"Denahi I don't care, don't you remember the stories your parents told you, they came from completely different families and yet they have this special connection" Kion said.

Denahi sighed.

"That's different" he said.

"How?" Kion asked.

"Oh I don't know, maybe because they're both lions" Denahi said.

"Denahi please don't tell anyone, especially Kiara, she'd never understand" Kion pleaded.

Denahi sighed.

"Ok fine" he said.

Kiara stepped out of the grasses.

"Tell me what?" She asked.

Kion and Denahi exchanged a startled look.

Kiara waited for them to answer.

"Nothing Kiara" Kion said.

He bounded over to her and rubbed his muzzle against her leg.

Kiara licked the top of his head.

"It's time to go home" Kiara said.

Denahi and Kion nodded and followed her back to Pride Rock.

Kiara gestured for Denahi to go ahead of them and gently guided Kion over to a clump of ferns.

"Kion I can tell you're keeping something from me, please don't, I thought we didn't keep secrets from each other, Kion you know I love you and you can tell me anything" Kiara said.

Kion sighed.

"Kiara I love you but I can't tell you" he said.

"Why can't you tell me?" Kiara asked.

"You wouldn't understand" Kion said.

"Come on let's go home" Kiara said defeated.

Kion sighed and followed her back to Pride Rock.

When they reached Pride Rock, Kiara sent Kion inside to go to sleep while she made her way over to Kovu.

She settled down next to him with a sigh and pressed her muzzle to his.

Kovu glanced up and smiled.

"Is something wrong my darling?" He asked.

Kiara sighed.

"Kion's keeping something from me" she said.

Kovu sighed sympathetically.

Kiara shifted so she could press her body against Kovu's.

"Kovu I don't want my baby brother keeping secrets from me, I don't keep secrets from him" Kiara said.

Kovu rasped his tongue over her ears affectionally.

"I know Kiara but I don't think there's anything you can do about it, Kion obviously doesn't want you to know what's bothering him" Kovu said.

Kiara sighed.

"Denahi knows but it's useless to get it out of him, he's Kion's best friend and he wouldn't betray his trust even to me, I'm just gonna have to find out on my own what Kion's hiding from me" Kiara said.

Kovu nodded.

Just then Belee and her cousins entered the den.

Nita wandered over to her parents, Kia went over to Nala, and Belee bounded over to Kiara.

Kiara's gaze softened as she embraced her daughter.

"Did you have a good day Belee?" She asked.

Belee nodded excitingly.

"We visited Rafiki, and Nita discovered a image of Kion on Rafiki's tree" Belee said.

Kiara and Kovu exchanged an amused glance.

"Sweetheart Rafiki painted a image of Kion on his tree when Kion was born" Kiara explained.

Belee shook her head.

"It's a different image" She said.

Kovu and Kiara exchanged a look.

"What was Kion doing in the image Belee?" Kiara asked.

"He was roaring" Belee said.

Kovu and Kiara exchanged a startled look.

"Sweetie are you sure?" Kovu asked.

Belee nodded.

"Kovu do you think Rafiki knew Kion was supposed to lead The Lion Guard?" Kiara asked.

Kovu thought for a moment.

"It's possible but he would have told us if he knew, he wouldn't have been able to keep a big secret from us" Kovu said.

Kiara glanced at Belee, who was listening intently.

"Belee, I need to talk to Daddy, why don't you go and find Nona" Kiara said gently.

Belee nodded and bounded off.

Kiara turned back to Kovu.

"Kovu I think we should go to Rafiki's and ask him if he knew about this" she said.

Kovu nodded.

"That's a good idea" he said.

Kovu and Kiara informed Simba and Nala of where they'd be before heading to Rafiki's tree.

When they reached Rafiki's tree, Kiara called up to him.

"Rafiki I need to talk to you!"

Rafiki poked his head out of the branches of his tree and smiled.

"Ahh Kiara what can I do for you my love?" He asked.

"Belee tells me that you painted a new image of Kion on your tree, I want to see it" she said.

Rafiki nodded.

"Come on in" he said.

Kiara and Kovu climbed up the slope and entered Rafiki's home.

Rafiki gestured to a image.

Kovu touched Kiara's shoulder with his tail and they followed Rafiki over to the image.

As Kiara studied the image she was stunned to discover that Belee had been right, it was Kion.

She and Kovu exchanged a glance before Kiara turned to Rafiki.

"Rafiki you knew Kion was supposed to lead The Lion Guard didn't you?" She asked.

Rafiki let out a sigh and nodded.

Kiara growled and sank her claws into the earth.

"How long have you known?" She growled through clenched teeth.

"Since Kion's birth" Rafiki said.

"Why.. Didn't.. You.. Tell.. Us?" Kiara growled.

Kovu quickly curled his tail around Kiara's neck.

"I'm sorry Kiara but I didn't have a choice" Rafiki said.

Kiara sighed.

"I already have Kion keeping a secret from me I don't need anyone else I love keeping secrets from me" she said.

Rafiki sighed.

"Mufasa was the one that informed me of Kion's destiny" he said.

"Grandpa knew?" Kiara asked.

Rafiki nodded.

Meanwhile Kion and Denahi had regrouped with the rest of The Lion Guard in the meadow.

"Thanks for agreeing to be a part of my team guys" Kion said, struggling to avoid looking into Fuli's eyes.

"So what do we do now Kion?" Bunga asked.

"I'm not sure Bunga" Kion said.

Denahi gestured for Kion to follow him.

Kion followed his nephew over to a clump of ferns.

Once they were concealed in the ferns Denahi turned to Kion.

"I think you should tell Fuli how you feel" he said.

Kion sighed.

"You're right but what if she doesn't return my love?" He asked.

"I'm sure she will Kion you just have to ask her" Denahi said.

Kion nodded.

He walked back to the group and gestured for Fuli to follow him.

Fuli followed Kion to the clump of ferns.

"Did you want something Kion?" She asked.

Kion gulped.

"Fuli.. I-I- I have somthing to tell you" he said.

Fuli glanced at him curiously.

"What is it Kion?" She asked.

Kion nervously kicked a pebble.

"I.. I love you Fuli, I've loved you since I first laid eyes on you, you're beautiful, kind, intelligent, and honest" Kion said.

Fuli glanced down at her paws.

"I love you too Kion, I always have" she said.

Kion breathed a sigh of relief.

"I'm guessing we're a couple now, like Kopa and Clea and Kovu and Kiara?" He said.

Fuli nodded slowly.

"I don't think we should tell anyone yet" she said.

Kion nodded in agreement.

"My parents wouldn't understand, Kiara wouldn't approve" he said.

Fuli nodded.

"We shouldn't tell our friends either" she said.

Kion nodded.

Fuli slowly moved forward and pressed her muzzle to Kion's cheek.

Kion gently returned her affection.

"We should get back to the group" he said.

Fuli nodded and they walked back to their friends.

Denahi shot a questioning glance at Kion.

Kion nodded slightly at his nephew.

"I guess we can go home for the day, nothing exciting is happening" Kion said.

"Ok Kion" Beshte said.

"See you guys later" Denahi added.

He and Kion bade goodbye to the group, and Kion exchanged a significant meaningful glance with Fuli, before starting to walk to Pride Rock with Denahi.

Denahi thumped Kion's shoulder triumphantly.

"Good job Kion" he said.

"Thanks Denahi, you have to promise me you won't tell anyone even Kiara" Kion said.

Denahi sighed.

"I promise" he said.

Kion grinned.

"Race you back to Pride Rock" he said.

Before Denahi could respond Kion had bolted off.

Denahi growled playfully and bounded ahead of his uncle.

Kion gasped as Denahi ran past him.

"I'm older then you Denahi you know I'll win" he called.

Denahi rolled his eyes.

Finally they reached Pride Rock.

"I win!!" Denahi boasted.

Kion rolled his eyes.

"I let you win" he said.

Denahi smirked.

"Sure Kion" he said.

"Remember Denahi you can't tell anyone about me and Fuli" Kion warned.

Denahi sighed.

"I promise" he said.

Kion beamed.

"Let's go inside" he said.

"Are you and Fuli gonna meet in secret tonight?" Denahi asked.

Kion nodded.

Denahi eyed Kion skeptically.

"Kion you sleep right next to Mom, how are you gonna slip away without her noticing?" He asked.

Kion thought for a second.

"I'll figure it out" he said.

When they entered the den Kiara ran over to them.

She sent Denahi over to Nala to be bathed before pulling Kion aside.

"Kion are you sure you don't want to tell me what's bothering you?" She asked.

Kion nodded.

Kiara sighed.

"I'll always be here if you want to talk" she said.

Kion rubbed his head against Kiara's leg affectionally.

"I love you Kiara" he said.

Kiara nuzzled his cheek affectionally.

"I love you too Kion" she said.

She straightened up and motioned for him to go to their sleeping place.

"It's time for bed" she said.

Kion nodded and followed her over.

They settled down and went to sleep.

Three hours later Kion awoke and carefully crawled over Kiara and slipped out of the den.

He and Fuli had arranged to meet at the meadow.

Kion made his way to the meadow excitingly.

When he reached the meadow he was both relived and overjoyed to see Fuli waiting for him.

He felt a surge of affection as he gazed at her.

"This must be what love feels like" he muttered.

He bounded over to Fuli excitedly.

Fuli glanced up and smiled warmly.

"Hi Kion" she said.

Kion pressed his muzzle to her cheek.

"Hi Fuli" he said.

"What do you want to do?" Fuli asked.

"Let's look at the stars" Kion suggested.

"Ok" Fuli agreed.

They leaned close together and admired the sky.

"My older sister says that the Great Kings and Queens Of The Past are in the stars, and that whenever we feel lonely we can look up at the stars and they'll guide us" Kion said.

Fuli glanced up.

"Your older sister sounds amazing Kion" she said.

Kion smiled.

"She is amazing, but I don't think she realizes I'm a not a little cub anymore, I know she loves me and she wants me to be safe but I can take care of myself" Kion said.

Fuli leaned her head on Kion's shoulder.

Kion licked her forehead affectionally.

"I love you Kion" Fuli said.

"I love you too Fuli" Kion said.

Suddenly they heard a twig snap.

They glanced up with alarm.

"What was that Kion?" Fuli asked.

Kion shrugged.

"It's probably just a animal on a late night hunt" he said.

Fuli nodded.

They returned to leaning against each other.

Suddenly Kiara stepped out of her hiding spot.

Instantly Kion and Fuli jumped apart.

"Kiara!!" Kion gasped.

Kiara's usual affectionate expression was replaced with a hard stare.

"Kiara I can explain" Kion said desperately.

Kiara slowly stalked towards them.

"I woke up in the middle of the night to find your spot empty, I follow your scent and what do I find, you in a relationship with a cheetah, Kion have you lost your mind, Fuli isn't one of your species, you're too young to know what love is anyway, I thought I taught you better then that" Kiara growled.

Kion turned to Fuli with a apologetic look on his face.

"Fuli I think it's best if you go home now, I need to talk to my sister, I'll see you tomorrow" Kion said.

Fuli nodded.

Kion flicked his tail on her shoulder affectionally before Fuli bounded off.

Once Fuli had gone Kion turned back to Kiara.

"Kiara I love Fuli and I'm not sorry I defied the Circle Of Life, Fuli is beautiful, intelligent, independent, and honest, you and Kovu always tell Belee and Denahi the stories of how you two fell in love and defied Dad's law by running away to be together, how is this any different, Kiara, please just let me grow up, I love you but I'm not a baby anymore, I know you want to protect me but I don't need your protection all the time, I'm capable of being a good leader, I can handle a crisis, I'm almost twelve months old" Kion said.

Kiara sighed.

"Kion I'm only trying to protect you" she said.

Kion walked closer to her.

"Kiara you don't need to protect me, don't you remember what Dad taught us, don't you remember what you and Kovu taught Dad?" Kion asked.

Kiara sighed.

"Of course I remember, Kovu and I taught him Love Will Find A Way" Kiara said.

"What did Dad teach us?" Kion prompted.

Kiara sighed.

"We Are One" Kion said.

"Kion that doesn't apply to everything" Kiara reasoned.

"It applied to you and Kovu, and it'll apply to me and Fuli" Kion countered.

Kiara sighed and lightly brushed her tail across her belly.

Kion failed to notice the movement.

"Kiara you can't tell anyone about this" Kion said.

Kiara opened her mouth with shock.

"What about Kovu?" She asked.

Kion shook his head.

"You can't tell Kovu either" he said.

Kiara sighed.

"I tell Kovu everything" She said.

"You can't tell him about this" Kion said.

Kiara sighed.

"Ok Kion, let's go home" she said.

Kion nodded and followed her back to Pride Rock.

When they reached Pride Rock Kiara sent Kion inside to bed while she walked to the peak.

She flopped down and gazed up at the sky.

"Grandma Uru I feel so confused, Kion is in love with a cheetah, he doesn't want me to tell anyone, I don't want to betray his trust but I can't keep this inside me, Please give me guidance" Kiara sighed.

Suddenly Kiara heard a familiar voice in the sky.

"My Darling, I know how you feel, it can be hard keeping a secret about someone you care about, I think you should trust your instincts and let your heart guide you, Although I do think you should tell your mate" Uru said.

Kiara blinked up at Uru gratefully.

"Thank you Grandma" she said.

Uru's spirit embraced her warmly before disappearing.

Kiara smiled and went inside the den.

Early the next morning Kion was the first to awake.

He yawned and glanced around the den.

He smiled as he gazed at his family.

He snuggled deeper into Kiara's side and fell asleep.

When Kiara woke up she glanced over at Kovu.

She sighed as she noticed how peaceful he looked.

She lightly caressed her belly with her tail.

She sighed and pressed her muzzle to Kovu's cheek.

"Kovu I need to talk to you" she whispered.

Kovu opened his eyes.

"Kiara!?, what's wrong, are you hurt!!" He asked.

Kiara shook her head quickly.

"I'm Fine Sweetheart. I just need to talk to you" she said.

Kovu nodded.

"Come outside with me" Kiara said.

Kovu got up and followed her outside.

When they were outside Kiara led him to the peak.

They settled down and Kovu turned to Kiara with a worried expression.

"Darling what's the matter?" He asked.

Kiara sighed.

"Kion's in love" she said.

Kovu exhaled sharply.

"He's in love with a cheetah" Kiara said.

Kovu gasped.

"Are you sure Kiara?" He asked.

Kiara nodded.

"I witnessed it myself tonight" she said.

Kovu sighed.

"Have you told Simba?" He asked.

Kiara shook her head.

"I can't betray Kion's trust" she said.

Kovu nodded.

"Come on back inside Dear" he said.

He touched his tail to her shoulder briefly.

Kiara pressed her muzzle to his flank.

"Ok" she said.

They entwined tails and went inside the den.

When they reached the den they noticed their children were still asleep.

They chuckled and walked over to the sleeping place.

When they reached it they settled down and began talking.

Meanwhile Kion had regrouped with his team in the meadow.

"Good Morning everyone" he said brightly.

They glanced up and smiled at him.

Fuli shot him a affectionate glance.

Kion smiled and returned her gaze.

Bunga rolled his eyes.

Kion cleared his throat.

"I think we should take a walk around the Pridelands and see if anybody needs our help" he said.

Ono, Beshte, and Bunga nodded in agreement.

"Good idea Kion" Fuli said.

Kion smiled at her.

"Thanks Fuli" he said.

Bunga sighed.

"If you guys are done flirting can we get a move on?" He asked.

"We're not flirting Bunga" Kion said.

"Let's go already" Fuli said.

They rushed off.

Meanwhile Vitani had awakened and was gently rousing her daughter.

"Nita it's time to wake up" she crooned.

Nita groggily opened her eyes.

"Good Morning Sweetheart" Vitani said.

She leaned over and nuzzled her.

Meanwhile Kion and his friends had started a patrol.

Kion sighed.

"What's wrong Kion" Fuli asked.

Kion glanced at her.

"I'm feeling confused, I need some time to think" Kion said.

Fuli nodded.

"Take all the time you need" she said.

Kion nodded.

"I'll be back in a second" he said.

He bounded away from the group and headed to the meadow.

He glanced up at the sky.

"Grandpa, I'm not sure if you can hear me, I'm not sure what to do" He called.

Suddenly Mufasa's spirit appeared in the clouds.

"I'm always here for you Kion" he said warmly.

"I need some advice" Kion said.

Mufasa smiled.

"What can I do for you little one?" He asked.

Kion sighed.

"I'm sure you've heard that I'm the new leader of The Lion Guard, well I'm not sure I can handle it, and to top it off I'm in love with a member of my team, a cheetah named Fuli, and I defied tradition by choosing members that aren't lions, I just don't know what to do" Kion said.

Mufasa sighed patiently.

"I know about The Lion Guard Kion, I'm the one that informed Rafiki about it when you were born, I'm proud of you Kion for taking your new responsibility seriously, I'm sure that you'll be a wonderful leader for The Lion Guard, and once Kiara and Kovu end their reign a wonderful King for the Pridelands, as for your love for a cheetah, let your heart guide your actions and trust your instincts, The Roar of The Elders will always be here to guide you.. And so will I.. Until the end of the Pridelands" Mufasa said.

Kion smiled gratefully.

"Thank You Grandpa" he said.

Mufasa's spirit disappeared back into the clouds.

Kion beamed as he returned back to his friends.

Fuli smiled warmly at him.

Kion smiled back and gestured for her to follow him to a small bush.

They concealed themselves in the ferns.

Kion pressed his muzzle to Fuli's cheek.

Fuli licked his cheek affectionally.

"Want to meet back at the meadow tonight?" She asked.

Kion nodded.

Fuli leaned her head on his shoulder.

Kion rasped his tongue over her ears.

"Bunga suspects something" he said.

Fuli sighed.

"We just have to be careful" she said.

Kion nodded.

"Come on we should get back to the others" he said.

Fuli nodded and they emerged from the bush.

They rejoined their friends.

"So what can we do Kion?" Ono asked.

"Let's walk around the Pridelands" Beshte suggested.

"Good idea Beshte" Kion said.

They began to walk through the Pridelands.

Suddenly Ono heard a noise.

"Hmm, I think something's wrong" he said.

"What do you see Ono?" Kion asked.

Ono flew higher and observed the scene.

"It's a stampede!!" He shouted.

The rest of the team gasped.

"What do we do Kion?" Bunga asked.

Kion thought for a second.

"Ono can you see what's causing the stampede?" He asked.

Ono nodded.

"It's the hyenas" he reported.

Kion groaned.

"Come on let's get this sorted out" he said.

Suddenly Denahi ran up to them desperately.

"Kion!!" Denahi shouted.

"Denahi what's wrong?" Kion asked.

"Belee's caught in the middle of the stampede" Denahi said.

Ono, Beshte,and Fuli gasped.

"Who's Belee?" Bunga asked.

"She's my niece" Kion said.

"She's caught in a stampede" Denahi repeated urgently.

Instantly Kion jumped up.

"Come on gang we need to go" he said.

The Lion Guard raced into action.

"Until The Pridelands End!" Kion shouted.

"The Lion Guard defends" Ono, Beshte, Fuli, and Bunga chorused.

The team raced to the meadow.

When they reached it they were horrified at what they saw.

"Ono fly up and see if you can spot Belee" Kion ordered.

Ono nodded and did as Kion asked.

Kion spotted Kovu and Kiara standing under the baobab and mango tree with Simba and Nala.

He and Denahi rushed over to them.

Kiara was pacing frantically back and forth.

Simba and Nala were watching the stampede.

Kovu was comforting Kiara.

Denahi joined Simba and Nala, while Kion went over to Kiara.

"Are you ok Kiara?" He asked.

Kiara glanced at him.

"Kion, my daughter is trapped in a stampede like Grandpa was" Kiara said.

Kion rubbed his head against her leg.

"I'll get her to safety I promise" He said.

Kiara smiled.

"Thanks Darling" she said.

Kion turned back to his team.

"Ok we need a plan" he said.

"I'm the fastest animal in the Pridelands Kion, but what do I do once I get near your niece?" Fuli asked.

Kion thought for a moment.

Before he could speak Bunga suddenly spoke up.

"Fuli I have a idea" he said.

"Bunga?" Kion asked skeptically.

Bunga waved a paw absentmindedly.

"Don't worry Kion I got a plan" he said

Kion nodded.

"Beshte and Ono you're with me, Fuli and Bunga you do Bunga's plan" he said.

The team nodded.

Fuli shot Kion a affectionate gaze.

Kion returned it briefly, before gesturing for Beshte and Ono to follow him.

He led them to where the hyenas were grouped.

Jaja and Shenzi glanced up and cackled.

"Well if it isn't Kion and his little group" Shenzi sneered.

Kion rose to his full height.

"We're the Lion Guard, we defend The Circle Of Life, you and your hyenas aren't welcome here, you set off a stampede that put someone I care about in danger, that isn't right Jaja, I need you and your sister and the hyenas to leave. Now" Kion ordered.

Jaja cackled.

"And what will you do if we don't?" He asked.

Kion turned away from his friends.

He roared loudly.

His roar sent the hyenas flying in all directions.

Beshte and Ono cheered.

Meanwhile Fuli and Bunga were in the middle of the stampede.

"Ok Bunga I hope your plan works" Fuli said.

"Relax Fuli it'll work" Bunga said reassuringly.

He hopped onto a gazelle and slowly made his way to Belee.

Belee glanced up in surprise.

"Who are you?" She asked.

"I'm Bunga, I'm a friend of Kion's" he said.

"Ok do you think you can help me, Mommy told me stories about how my great grandfather died in a stampede" Belee said.

Bunga smiled.

"Don't worry Belee I'll help you" he said.

He called for Fuli to join them.

Fuli ran over to them.

"Fuli do you think you can hold Belee in your mouth?" Bunga asked.

"I can try" Fuli answered.

She bent down and gently grasped Belee with her teeth.

Bunga climbed onto her back.

"Ok Fuli go back to Kion" he said.

Fuli nodded and raced off.

Bunga reached down and held Belee steady.

When Fuli reached Kion she halted in her tracks and gently released Belee.

Kion rushed forward to embrace his niece.

"I'm so glad you're safe Belee" he said.

Belee nodded shakily.

Kion smiled gently.

"Go to your parents Belee they're worried about you" he said.

Belee nodded and bounded off.

When she reached her parents and Denahi they greeted her with relief and affection.

"My Darling I'm so glad you're safe" Kiara said as she nuzzled her.

Kovu rasped his tongue affectionally over Belee's ear.

Denahi gently nudged his sister.

Kion gestured for Fuli to follow him over to a clump of bushes.

Once they were concealed in the ferns, Fuli leaned her head on Kion's shoulder.

"I'm proud of you Kion" she said.

Kion smiled.

"Thank you" he said.

"You really showed how much you love your niece when you threatened the hyenas and saved her life" Fuli said.

Kion smiled.

Behind them they heard a loud roar.

"What was that Kion?" Fuli asked.

Kion twitched his ears.

"It's Dad's roar to stop the stampede" he explained.

Fuli nodded.

"When will we tell your parents?" She asked.

Kion sighed.

"It won't be long Fuli I promise" he said.

Fuli nodded.

"Come on we need to get back to the others" she said.

Kion nodded and they emerged from the bush.

When they regrouped with the others Kion cleared his throat.

"Ok Guys we need to find a meeting place, Kiara's told me about a cave that the original Lion Guard used, it's located in Pride Rock" he said.

Beshte, Ono, Bunga, and Fuli nodded.

Kion beamed at his friends.

"Good Job today Guys" he said.

"Thanks Kion" Beshte said.

"Kion we need to go home" Denahi said.

Kion nodded.

He and Denahi bade goodbye to their friends before rejoining their family.

Kiara walked over to Kion.

There was a expression of pride and affection on her face.

She leaned down and rubbed her muzzle against Kion's cheek.

"Thank you Kion" she said.

Kion smiled.

"You're welcome Kiara" he said.

Kiara brushed her tail across her belly.

Kion failed to notice the movement.

Simba stepped up to his son.

"I'm very proud of you Kion" he said.

"Thank You Dad" Kion said.

Simba glanced behind him at the Lion Guard.

He blinked with surprise.

"Kion those aren't lions" he said.

"Yeah Dad about that I-" Kion started to explain.

Simba cut him off.

"Kion I asked you to assemble the new Lion Guard, instead you're just playing with your friends" he said.

"Dad I'm not playing, my friends are the new Lion Guard, Fuli's the fastest, Beshte's the strongest, Ono is the keenest of sight, and Bunga's the bravest" Kion said.

Simba sighed.

"The Lion Guard has always been made of lions, do you really think that a Lion Guard with only one lion can protect the Pridelands?" Simba continued.

"Well Actully-" Kion started to say.

Simba cut him off again.

"Kion listen, it's not a game, it's serious. The Circle of Life and your life will depend on who you choose for your team, I need you to take your responsibility seriously, just as seriously as Kiara takes her's " Simba said.

"Daddy!!" Kiara whispered sharply.

Nala whacked Simba on the shoulder.

"Simba you owe them Belee's life, she could have been killed in the stampede like Mufasa was, I'm sure Kion knows what he's doing, just trust him" Nala reasoned.

"Daddy Please" Kiara pleaded.

Simba sighed.

"Ok I guess we can give them a chance" he said.

Nala and Kiara smiled.

Suddenly they heard a voice in the sky.

"Well Done My Son" Mufasa said.

Simba smiled.

"Hi Dad" he said.

Mufasa's spirit warmly embraced him.

Kiara and Kion smiled at each other.

"Hi Grandpa" they said in unison.

Mufasa smiled.

"Hello my Darling Kiara, and Kion how's leading The Lion Guard going?" He asked.

Kion smiled at him.

"It's going fine Grandpa" he said.

Belee and Denahi raced over.

Mufasa chuckled.

"Hello my precious Belee, and this must be Denahi" he said.

Belee smiled.

"Hi Grandpa" she said.

She then turned to Denahi.

"Denahi this is Grandpa Mufasa, he's Nai Nai's mate" she said.

Denahi bowed his head respectfully.

"It's a honor to meet you Grandpa" he said echoing what Kovu had said when he first meet Mufasa.

"Grandpa how's Grandma Uru doing?, she gave me advice a few days ago" Kiara said.

Mufasa smiled at her.

"She's doing just fine darling" he said.

Simba cleared his throat.

"Mom misses you a lot Father" he said.

Mufasa sighed.

"I miss her as well" he said.

Nala touched her tail to Simba's shoulder.

Mufasa turned back to Kiara with a smile.

"Congratulations Kiara" he said.

Kiara smiled and brushed her tail along her belly.

"Thank You Grandpa" she said.

Kion beckoned his team forward.

"Grandpa I have some animals I want you to meet" he said.

He touched his tail to Bunga's shoulder.

"This is Bunga, he's Timon and Pumbaa's adopted nephew" Kion said.

Mufasa smiled gently.

"Hello Bunga" he said.

Bunga bowed.

"It's a honor to meet you King Mufasa" he said.

Kion moved over to Fuli and after exchanging an affectionate glance with her he gently rested his tail on her shoulder.

"This is Fuli, she's the fastest cheetah in the Pridelands" Kion said, "she's also my girlfriend" he added silently.

Mufasa smiled warmly.

"Hello Fuli" he said.

"Mufasa" Fuli said politely inclining her head.

Next Kion turned to Beshte.

"This is Beshte, he's the strongest" Kion said.

Mufasa chuckled.

"Hello Beshte, I believe you're Basi's son, I knew your father very well, he was a good friend of mine" Mufasa said.

Beshte nodded.

"Thank You your majesty" he said.

Kion moved over to Ono.

"This is Ono, he's the keenest of sight" he said.

Ono bowed deeply.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Mufasa" he said grandly. Mufasa inclined his head.

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well" he said.

Suddenly Nala stepped forward.

Mufasa smiled at her.

"Mufasa how's my father?" She asked shakily.

"He's doing fine Nala, he wishes he could have been there to meet his grandchildren" Mufasa said.

Nala sighed.

Simba touched her shoulder with his tail.

Suddenly they heard a rustling from behind Kiara.

They turned to see Sarabi emerging from the grasses.

"Simba?, I need to talk to you-" she started to say before she stopped dead at the sight of Mufasa's spirit.

Kiara exchanged a brief glance with her parents before rushing over to Sarabi.

She pressed her muzzle to Sarabi's cheek.

Sarabi slowly returned her affection.

"Kiara is that who I think it is?" She asked shakily.

Kiara nodded.

Sarabi slowly started to walk forward, but she stumbled slightly, Kiara quickly steadied her and guided her over to their family.

"It's ok Nai Nai, it's his spirit, he wanted to visit us" she said.

Sarabi nodded shakily before locking gazes with Mufasa.

"Hello Mufasa" she said.

Kiara pressed her body against Sarabi's.

Mufasa smiled affectionally at Sarabi.

"Hello my love" he said.

Sarabi shuddered as Mufasa's spirit embraced her.

Simba moved forward so he was standing next to Sarabi.

"Mom, you wanted to talk to me about something?" He asked.

Sarabi shook her head.

"It's not important it can wait" she said.

She turned to make her departure.

"Sarabi" Mufasa called.

Sarabi glanced over her shoulder.

"Yes Mufasa?" Sarabi asked.

Mufasa beckoned her forward.

Sarabi walked over to him.

"I'm sure you know how much I love you and how sorry I am that I can't be with you today to watch our grandchildren grow up, I'm proud of you for being a loving mother and grandmother and keeping my memory alive within our pride" he said.

Sarabi inclined her head.

"Thank you my dear" she said.

She suppressed a shudder as Mufasa's spirit embraced her once more before disappearing.

Belee rushed over to Sarabi.

"Are you ok Nai Nai?" She asked.

Sarabi smiled warmly at her granddaughter.

"I'm fine Sweetheart" she said.

Simba and Nala smiled at each other.

"Simba?" Nala prompted gently.

Simba nodded.

"Nala..Kion is ready.. It Is Time for The Lion Guard" he said proudly.

Nala entwined her tail with his.

Kion abandoned his friends and approached his parents.

"Mom, Dad?, I'm the leader of The Lion Guard but I need to know that I have you when I need you, I can ask advice and help from you whenever I need it" Kion said.

Simba and Nala exchanged a smile.

"Of course Kion" Simba said.

"Sweetheart you'll always have it" Nala added.

Kion stepped over to Kiara and Kovu.

"I want to know that I have your support too" he said.

Kiara bent down and licked his cheek.

"Honey when have you not had my support?" She asked.

Kion nuzzled Kiara's leg.

"Kion we love you and we'll always be here for you" Kovu added warmly.

Denahi nudged Kion playfully.

Belee nuzzled Kion's cheek.

Simba and Nala were watching the exchange with an affectionate and amused look in their eyes.

Kion bounded over to Sarabi.

"Nai Nai I need to have yours and Nona's support as well" he said.

Sarabi chuckled lightly.

"You've never lost it Sweetie" she said.

Suddenly Sarafina, Kopa and Clea rushed over to them, followed by Kenai, Kia, Vitani, and Nita.

Kopa and Clea joined Simba and Nala, Kia and Nita instantly joined Belee, Sarafina joined Sarabi, and Kenai went to Denahi.

Kion went over to Vitani.

"Tani I'm the new leader of The Lion Guard, I want to know that I have your support when I need it" he said.

Vitani chuckled.

"Kion I love you I'll always be here for you you're like a brother to me" she said.

Kovu cleared his throat loudly.

Vitani ignored him.

She bent down and nuzzled Kion.

Kion returned her affection before turning to Kiara.

He gestured for Fuli to join them before leading them to the clump of ferns.

"Kiara I love you and I want you to accept Fuli as a part of my life, I want you to be friends with her, please Kiara" he said.

Kiara sighed.

"Ok Kion" she said.

Kion turned to Fuli.

"I want you to accept my older sister as a part of my life" he said.

Fuli nodded.

"Ok Kion" she said.

Kion smiled and led them back to the others. As Kion gazed at his family and friends he felt a strong surge of love.

"I love you guys" he said.

Kiara smiled at him.

"We love you too" she said.

Simba and Nala came forward to embrace their son.

Kopa and Clea joined them, closely followed by Kovu and Kiara.

Vitani heisted for a moment before following Kiara.

Belee, Nita, and Kia watched them curiously.

"Why are they hugging Kion?" Nita asked.

Belee turned to face Nita.

"Apparently he's the new leader of the Lion Guard" she said.

Nita nodded.

"Should we hug him?" She asked.

Belee nodded.

"Come on" she said.

She led the way over to their family to join the hug.

Kia and Nita followed her.

After they'd embraced Kion, Belee wandered over to Sarabi and Sarafina, Kia went to Clea and Kopa, and Nita went over to Simba and Nala.

Simba and Nala smiled warmly at her.

"Did you have a good day Nita?" Nala asked.

Nita nodded.

"Yes Nana, I had a good day" she said.

Simba and Nala exchanged an affectionate look.

"Come here Sweetheart" Simba said, as he held a paw out.

Nita went over to them and crawled into Simba's paws.

"I love you Papa and Nana" she said.

"We love you too" Nala said.

Meanwhile Kion beckoned for Fuli to join him in the clump of ferns.

Once they were concealed in the ferns, Kion licked Fuli's cheek.

"Today sure has been a eventful day" Fuli said.

Kion nodded.

"I assembled a team of animals to protect the Pridelands, I fell in love with a beautiful cheetah, I saved Belee's life, I stood up to Jaja and Shenzi, and I proved to Kiara that I'm growing up" he recounted.

Fuli chuckled.

"I'm sure you'll be a wonderful leader for The Lion Guard" she said.

Kion beamed.

"Thank you Fuli" he said.

Fuli smiled.

"You're welcome" she said.

Suddenly Kion heard Kiara calling him.

"I'm coming Kiara!" He called back.

He and Fuli emerged from the bush.

"It's time to go home" Kiara said once Kion had joined her.

Kion glanced behind him at his friends.

"They have to go back to their herds but you'll see them tomorrow" Kiara said.

Kion nodded.

"See you later guys" he said.

He touched his tail briefly to Fuli's shoulder before following Kiara back to Pride Rock.

When they reached Pride Rock, Kion, Denahi and Kenai raced inside to get the baobab ball before running to the meadow.

Kia, Nita, and Belee exchanged a glance.

"Wanna go to Rafiki's?" Kia asked.

Belee and Nita nodded.

Kiara cleared her throat.

"Aunt Kiara can we go to Rafiki's?" Nita asked.

Kiara smiled.

"Sure darling" she said.

Belee, Nita, and Kia instantly raced off.

Kiara exchanged an amused glance with her parents before following Kovu inside the den.

Once Belee, Nita, and Kia had made it to Rafiki's they rushed inside.

Rafiki glanced up in surprise, he was bent over his herb collection counting juniper berries.

"Well hello Darlings and what brings you to old Rafiki's dwelling today?" He asked.

Belee and Kia glanced at each other, then at Nita, Nita's gaze was locked on the herbs.

"We thought you'd tell us a story or we could help you with something" Belee spoke up.

Kia nodded in agreement.

Rafiki turned to Nita.

"Nita?" He asked.

Nita appeared to not hear him, her gaze was still locked on the herbs and she was muttering under her breath.

Belee gently tapped Nita on the shoulder.

"Nita is something wrong?" Kia asked.

Nita shook her head.

"Rafiki what herb is that?" She asked.

Rafiki glanced up.

"It's called juniper berries Darling" he answered.

"It.. It cures bellyache, and eases troubled breathing doesn't it?" Nita asked.

Rafiki nodded.

Belee and Kia were eying Nita with admiration, concern, and affection.

"Rafiki can you tell us a story?" Kia asked.

Rafiki nodded.

"Which one do you want to hear?" He asked.

"Tell us one about Grandpa Ahadi" Belee said.

Rafiki chuckled.

"I know the perfect story" he said.

He gestured for them to gather around him.

"This story takes place many years ago, when your Great-Great Grandfather was King, It takes place during a horrible drought, Your Great- Great Grandmother Uru bravely set out to find a source of water for the kingdom, while Ahadi stayed behind to tend to Mufasa and Taka.

I was just a lonely traveler at the time, I went around exploring the Pridelands and gaining knowledge, Scar who was known as Taka back then was bitterly jealous of his older brother, for Mufasa had been chosen to become the next King, I overheard a plot Taka had schemed up to stir up trouble for Mufasa, I rushed to inform Mufasa of the plot and stop Taka's treachery, Taka had convinced a buffalo named Boma to aid him in his plot, this ultimately led to Taka receiving his scar, Mufasa rushed to aid his brother, Ahadi soon arrived with a small band of Pridelanders to sort out the problem, they took Taka back to Pride Rock and I healed his wound, Taka felt terrible because of his actions and requested to be called Scar from that day on, Ahadi appointed me the chief adviser and shaman of the Pridelands, he appointed Zazu's mother Zuzu the majordomo of the Pridelands, eventually Uru returned to her family and all was well"

Once Rafiki had finished the story Belee, Nita, and Kia exchanged a glance.

"Thank you Rafiki" Belee said.

"Rafiki I know I'm not kin to Nana and Papa but I love them" Nita said.

Rafiki chuckled.

"There's nothing wrong with loving Simba and Nala my darling, they love you very much and they will always be there for you" Rafiki said.

Nita nodded.

Belee glanced up at the sky.

"It's getting late we should head back" she said.

Kia and Nita nodded.

Meanwhile back at Pride Rock, Simba and Nala were curled up together talking quietly, Kopa and Clea were deeply engrossed in a conversation with Sarafina.

Kovu and Kiara were cuddled together.

Kovu was brushing his tail along Kiara's belly.

"I'm so glad Kovu" Kiara said.

Kovu smiled.

"I am too" he said.

Kiara leaned up and licked his cheek.

"I love you Kovu I'm glad I get to experience this with you" she said.

Kovu rasped his tongue over her ear.

"I love you too" he said.

Suddenly Belee ran into the den, closely followed by Nita and Kia.

Instantly Kovu and Kiara sat up.

The three cubs huddled together in a brief conference before splitting up, Nita went over to Simba and Nala, Kia joined Sarabi, and Belee bounded over to her parents.

When she reached them, Kovu and Kiara smiled at her.

"Hello Sweetheart" Kovu said.

"Hi Daddy" Belee said.

Kiara leaned over and nuzzled her daughter.

"Did you have a good day Sweetheart?" Kiara asked.

Belee nodded.

"What did you do today?" Kovu prompted.

"Kia, Nita, and I visited Rafiki, I was almost killed in a stampede like Grandpa Mufasa, and I watched Kion become leader of The Lion Guard" Belee recounted.

"What'd you do at Rafiki's?" Kiara asked.

"We listened to him tell a story about Grandpa Ahadi, and Nita knew what one of his herbs was" Belee said.

Kiara smiled and beckoned Belee forward.

Belee crawled over and curled up next to Kiara's belly.

She breathed in Kiara's familiar scent and closed her eyes.

Kiara gently stroked Belee's back with her tail.

Kovu watched his mate and daughter with a affectionate look in his eyes.

He leaned over and rasped his tongue over Kiara's ear.

Belee cuddled deeper into Kiara and fell asleep.

Kiara pressed her muzzle to Belee's forehead before joining her.

Kovu rubbed his muzzle against Kiara's cheek before joining his mate and daughter in slumber.

Kenai, Kion and Denahi crept into the den sleepily.

Kenai went to Clea and Kopa, Denahi went to Sarafina, and Kion went over to Nala.

He cuddled close to his mother and fell asleep.