The Lion Guard: Protecting Zazu

It was a peaceful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling the Flood Plains.

"How's your family, Kion?" Beshte asked.

"Everyone's fine." Kion answered.

Kion glanced at Ono.

Ono nodded, and took to the sky.

He returned a moment later, and settled down on Beshte's back.

"Janja's Clan is attacking Zazu." Ono said.

Kion and Fuli exchanged a glance.

"Where are they, Ono?" Fuli asked.

"They’re at the Water Hole." Ono answered.

"Come on, Lion Guard." Kion said.

He led the way to the Water Hole.

When they arrived, Kion bounded forward.

"Leave him alone, Janja!" He called.

Janja cackled.

"You came to help the majordomo?" He asked.

Kion shook his head.

"I came to help someone I care about." He said.

Kion glanced at Fuli.

Fuli nodded, and moved forward.

She gently pushed Zazu towards Beshte.

Kion unsheathed his claws, and sank them into the earth underneath him.

He braced himself, and performed the Roar.

It sent Janja's Clan topping backwards.

Kion watched them stumble towards the border.

He glanced at Zazu.

"Are you okay?" He asked.

Zazu nodded.

"Thank you, Lion Guard." Zazu said.

"You're welcome." Kion answered.

He watched Zazu sigh, and glance up.

"What's wrong, Zazu?" Fuli asked gently.

"I've never been late before." Zazu said.

Kion's expression softened.

"Dad will understand." He said.

"It isn't your fault." Beshte added.

Kion and Fuli exchanged a glance.

"Let's get you to Pride Rock, Zazu." Fuli said.

“All right, Fuli.” Zazu said.

Fuli and Kion bade goodbye to their friends, and followed Zazu to Pride Rock.

When they arrived, Mari rushed to greet them.

She was followed closely by Simba.

"I was just starting to worry." Simba said.

Fuli moved forward, and knelt to nuzzle Mari’s cheek.

She led Mari into the den.

"There was a minor encounter with Janja, but Zazu's fine." Kion said.

Simba nodded.

"I'm relieved to hear that." He said.

Zazu cleared his throat.

"I'm ready to give the morning report." He said.

Simba chuckled.

"It's almost sunhigh, but fire away." Simba said.

"All is clear along the borders." Zazu said.

Kion moved forward, and settled down beside Simba.

He leaned against Simba's side.

Simba curled a paw around Kion's shoulders.

Meanwhile, Kenai and Kia had met up with Bemba at the Meadow.

They were settled down underneath the baobab tree.

"How was the hunt, Grandma?" Kenai asked.

"It was fine." Bemba answered.