Kion

"Hevi kabisa!"

- Kion's catchphrase

Kion is the son of Simba and Nala, the younger brother of Kiara and the prince of the Pride Lands. He is the fiercest member and leader of the Lion Guard, a group tasked with preserving the Circle of Life and protecting his residence.

Appearance
Kion is very similar to his father in many aspects. He has a light golden pelt and paler golden paws, underbelly, and muzzle. He has a small mane, not yet fully grown in, of bright red hair on his head that has several crimson streaks running through it and curves back in tufts, with a bushy tail tip that is the same color as his mane. His eyes are orange-brown, with dark, thick eyebrows located above them. He possesses a sepia brown nose and dark brown whiskers, with brown rims along the side of his light red-brown inner ears and black rims along the top. At the base of each of his legs, Kion has numerous spots in a darker shade than his main fur color.

His Mark of the Guard is imprinted in orange on his shoulder.

Personality
Before becoming leader of the Lion Guard, Kion was a playful and rather carefree lion. It was remarked by Simba that he hoped Kion would grow up someday, implying that he was immature.

Currently, Kion is a fierce lion who has a great sense of responsibility. He takes his position as leader of the Lion Guard very seriously, and strives to make sure that he never goes down the path that his great uncle Scar did. He is very hesitant on using the Roar of the Elders for anything other than protecting the Pride Lands as a result. Kion doesn't seem to care much for tradition, as shown by his desire to assemble a Lion Guard made up of much more than just lions. This also shows that he is open to change, so long as it is for the better. Kion understands that not all hyenas are bad. He doesn't believe that fighting isn't always the answer to everything, and is trusting enough to give strangers a chance even if they cause trouble.

Kion is very observant and skilled at piecing together information. He has faith in his friends and dislikes seeing their feelings, which he is sensitive to, hurt. Kion also cares deeply for his mother Nala, his father Simba, and his sister Kiara. He cares for all of the Pride Landers, and respects the Circle of Life. However, when driving unwanted animals out of the Pride Lands, he becomes very forceful and fierce, unafraid to be harsh. His courage is undeniable, as he will face any adversary for the good of the Pride Lands, its inhabitants, or his friends. Kion is a true leader, authoritative and willing to give orders to anyone, whether they are his friends, his family, or his enemies.

The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar
Kion and his best friend, Bunga are playing on Pride Rock, where Kion's father, the ruler of the Pride Lands, Simba, is teaching his daughter Kiara about her future as queen of the Pride Lands. Kion and Bunga's game of Baobab Ball get in the way of his lesson, much to his sister's irritance. After Simba points out the importance of the lessons, the two take their fun into the Pride Lands to avoid further disturbances. The two continue their playing their game of baobab across the plains, but soon the Baobab rolls off into the Outlands. Kion is hesitant to go down, since his father strictly prohibited him from venturing there. Bunga, on the other hand, has no fear of the Outlands, and gladly leaps down. However, shortly after reclaiming the fruit, two hyenas - Cheezi and Chungu - grab Bunga, and plan to hand him over to their leader, Janja, for his lunch. Worried for his friend's safety, Kion lets loose a huge roar, which leaves the hyenas in shock, and giving Bunga a chance to climb back to safety. Bunga is curious as to how his friend produced such a roar, and Kion admits that he doesn't know how.

Meanwhile, Simba and Rafiki overhear the Roar. Simba at first does not believe that his son is ready, with him being a cub still. Kion and Bunga then arrive back at Pride Rock. Simba and Rafiki lead them both to a secret lair hidden within Pride Rock- The Lair of the Lion Guard. Simba explains to his son that his great uncle possessed the Roar of the Elders, and that he lost it by using it for evil by destroying his Guard. He also explains that it is now his turn to lead the guard, and that he must assemble the fiercest, bravest, fastest, strongest and keenest of sight. Kion doesn't hesitate to begin his mission, and immediately selects his friend Bunga, claiming that he doesn't know anyone braver than him. As Bunga rushes to tell his uncles, a vulture named Mzingo overhears the news of a new Lion Guard, and relays the news on to Janja, the leader of the hyenas. The pair concoct a scheme to take down as many animals as they can before the new Lion Guard is formed, starting that same day. Meanwhile, Kion has assembled a group which he believes best fit the criteria for being a member of the Lion Guard. This includes Fuli the cheetah, Beshte the hippopotamus and Ono the egret. Fuli wishes to see the fiercest member, to which Bunga encourages his friend to show her the roar. Kion is hesitant, as he does not wish to abuse his power like Scar. However, when he attempts to use it just for this occasion, all he can manage is a tiny squeak. Simba then arrives to see the new Guard, but soon tells Kion that the Lion Guard has always been made of lions. Kion, needing to be alone, wanders around the Pride Lands. A voice calls him from the clouds, and Kion peers up to see his grandfather, Mufasa there. Kion conveys his concerns to the King of the Past, believing that he is not ready for the responsibility yet, as well as his fear of turning out like Scar. Mufasa tells Kion to believe in himself, and promises to watch over him, before vanishing.

Bunga calls Kion, and tells him that the hyenas are attacking the gazelle. Kion and Bunga then rush off to find the rest of the Lion Guard. Once they are all together, Kion places his paw on each of his friend's shoulders, to give them the Mark of the Guard. The Guard quietly make their way down to the gazelle's grazing grounds, before launching a surprise attack with Kion at the front of the group. With Ono taking care of Mzingo, the rest of the group focus on the hyenas. The hyenas soon start to make a desperate retreat. Simba, Nala, Tiifu and Rafiki arrive just in time to see the new Lion Guard chase the hyenas away.

Although they assume that their work is done, it turns out that his sister Kiara is still in danger. Kion quickly starts to wonder what they could do, though Bunga soon tells him that he can deal with it, along with Fuli. Kion tells Ono to go find Kiara, which he does so. Bunga manages to clear the gazelles away with a giant fart, rescuing Kiara in the process. With Kiara safe, the Lion Guard approaches Janja's clan. As Janja taunts Kion, the lion cub makes it clear that the Lion Guard is there to defend the Pride Lands. He lets out the Roar of the Elders, and the hyenas scramble back to the Outlands. After witnessing the whole event, Rafiki assures Simba that he is ready. As Kion and his Guard rush back to Pride Rock, Simba is happy to accept the new Lion Guard, acknowledging that it is now their time.

Never Judge a Hyena By Its Spots
Janja, Cheezi and Chungu are out chasing oryxes, until the Lion Guard arrive to scare them off. Kion tells his friends to calm the herd down, whilst he tackles the hyenas personally. He chases them back to the Outlands across a log. However, whilst standing on the same log, it breaks, and Kion falls downstream.

Ono soon sees Kion in trouble, holding onto the log of the tree that snapped off with him, heading downstream. Ono quickly alerts the rest of the Lion Guard, and they run down to find Kion holding on for dear life. Bunga, desperate to save his friend, leaps in, but Beshte soon jumps in to take him back to land as the current proves to be too strong. Fuli orders Ono to go ahead and check on Kion, who struggles against the current himself and loses his log.

He eventually manages to paddle to safety and onto land, just as his friends catch up on the other side. Kion confirms that he's okay. Ono lands beside him and voices his concern, as Kion has landed in the Outlands. The young lion cub knows that, but also knows how to get back. With no choice thanks to the fast current, Kion tells everyone to meet him at Flat Ridge Rock. Bunga tells everyone that he knows where that is, and leads Fuli and Beshte off. Kion tells Ono to go with them, just in case Bunga doesn't really know the way. Once the egret has left, Kion starts to climb the rocks behind him, as a figure watches from the shadows.

Back in the Outlands, some falling rocks startle and alert Kion to another's presence. A hyena leaps down, and Kion protests, calling her 'hyena' when she comments that he 'didn't know (she) was up there'. She starts to mock him slightly, before revealing that she knows who he is. Kion asks her if she is part of Janja's clan, and she responds with slight disgust. She asks him what he's doing in the Outlands, and Kion explains that he's headed to Flat Ridge Rock, referring to her as 'hyena' once again aggressively. She becomes annoyed at this, and introduces herself as Jasiri, before informing Kion that he's headed the wrong way. Refusing to believe that a hyena can be trusted, even after she tells him that she wants him out of her territory, Kion continues in the same direction, with Jasiri following him.

Later, Kion notices that Jasiri is still following him, and is becoming increasingly annoyed. She warns him again that he's going the wrong way, but Kion leaps up the rocks anyway, just in time for Jasiri to tell him that it leads to a dead end. Kion slips and winds up trapped in a thorn bush. Jasiri begins to laugh ominously, and growls as she approaches the fearful Kion. Much to his surprise, Jasiri starts to break the thorn bush away. She is disgusted when Kion once again shows his belief that all hyenas are bad. She manages to make Kion smile as she makes a joke, and continues breaking the bush.

Jasiri finally gets Kion loose, and admits that she could have told him earlier, but wanted to see him fall. Kion is unimpressed, though also confesses that he is lost, and asks for help. Jasiri tells him the path to get home, and Kion begins to walk away. However, Jasiri notices that the lion cub is limping, and decides to accompany him, since it was technically her fault in the first place. On the way, Kion notices a chameleon eating a fly, and mentions the Circle of Life. Jasiri responds defensively, informing Kion that she knows all about it already, and that hyenas do play a part themselves. She then tells Kion that they're the same, and although at first he disbelieves it, Kion soon starts to understand that not all hyenas are bad, and not to judge all of them by their species.

They soon reach Janja's territory, and Kion thanks Jasiri. He also tells her that if she ever needs any help, to let him know as he leaves. Kion begins to climb out of the Outlands, but hears a commotion, and returns down. He finds Jasiri pinned to the ground by Janja and surrounded by Janja's clan, and he lunges at Janja, knocking him off of his new friend with a single swipe. He and Jasiri team up and battle the hyenas, but soon, the clan manages to corner them. Kion tells Jasiri to get behind him, and uses the Roar of the Elders to knock back Janja's clan, who retreat straight after. Jasiri and Kion are amused by the sight of their fleeing opponents, and Jasiri remarks that she never thought a lion would help a hyena, giving Kion a friendly push. Kion is at first shocked, then smiles and responds that not all lions are alike.

Fuli, Beshte, Bunga and Ono then arrive. Fuli, noticing Jasiri, becomes defensive. Jasiri retaliates, but Kion steps between them and explains everything, telling the Guard that Jasiri is a friend. Fuli is surprised, and Bunga reminds Kion that Jasiri is a hyena, but Kion tells them that not all hyenas are bad, and recalls the ferocity with which Jasiri took on Janja's clan. Fuli becomes much more friendly, and the Lion Guard soon make their way back to Flat Ridge Rock. Kion says goodbye to Jasiri, hoping to see her again sometime. He catches up to the rest of the Guard, and they leave.

The Rise of Makuu
In The Rise of Makuu, Kion, Fuli, Beshte, Ono and Bunga rushing to the cry of an animal in trouble. Once they get close enough, they are disappointed to see that it is in fact a Hyrax stuck inside a thorn bush. Kion reminds them that their duty is to protect the Circle of Life, even if it means that some of their duties are less exciting. Bunga and Fuli save the hyrax, though the hyrax is soon repelled by Bunga's scent. Although Ono is disgusted by the scent, Kion tries to assure everyone that Bunga has always been a bit 'fragrant', whilst also holding back his own repulsion.

The crew decide to visit Big Springs, as Beshte gives them a demonstration of how he gets clean. With Beshte's father, Basi, explaining how the Circle of Life works for them. Bunga dives in, soaking Kion and Fuli, but the fish scatter away from his smell. Everyone laughs, until Pua arrives. As Basi invites him to come back next week when the fish should hopefully be ready, one crocodile, Makuu, shows annoyance at their leader's submission to the hippos. He challenges him to a Mashindano, which Basi explains to the youngsters is a fight to determine the leader. Kion immediately becomes concerned, and returns home.

Back home, Kion forwards his concerns to his mother and father. His sister Kiara asks her father if there's anything he can do after hearing her brother's concern, but Simba states that each animal has their own way of handling things, much to Kion's disappointment, and that he absolutely cannot interfere with an event such as this.

The Mashindano soon begins, with most of the Pride Landers coming to watch, constantly chanting as the two crocodiles face off. The battle rages on, with Pua using many techniques to pull Makuu down. Kion secretly cheers for Pua, not wishing to see Makuu in power after what he had witnessed from him back at Big Springs. However, Pua soon grows tired, and Makuu's youth secures him the victory, much to Kion's further disappointment. Simba congratulates Makuu on his win, and thanks Pua for his services over the years. Defeated, Pua leaves, as Basi explains that the loser is banished from the Crocodile Float. Kion watches Makuu slink into the water, worried more than ever.

In The Lair of the Lion Guard, the Lion Guard are relaxing, with Ono still trying to clean Bunga. Kiara suddenly appears with a worried expression on her face. After Beshte asks her what's wrong, she explains that Zazu has just informed her that a herd of giraffes have moved into the baboons' forest, and Simba is out hunting with Nala. With no one else to turn to, Kion quickly rushes out with the rest of the Lion Guard quickly, with Ono scouting out the areas.

Ono soon reveals that all of the animals in the Pride Lands have shifted their homes, with the apparent root of the problem being the crocodiles now living in Big Springs. Kiara then realizes that when the crocodiles pushed the hippos out, they in turn caused the other animals to move about in order to find a new home. Kion decides to talk with Makuu personally.

Kion and the Lion Guard make their way over to speak with Makuu, who, after being told to leave, refuses, stating that they were there to stay unless Kion wanted to fight. Although the rest of the Lion Guard are up for a fight, Kion refuses, stating that not everything needs to be settled with a fight. Although Makuu's taunts almost cause Kion to lose it, he regains control and walks away, reminding his friends that his roar could easily kill all the fish there anyway. He suddenly gains an idea, and locates Pua.

Kion asks Pua to challenge Makuu to another Mashindano, though Pua refuses, informing him that sometimes you have to accept that you have been beaten, even if you don't like it. He gives Kion the advice to just back down, telling him that Makuu is still young and can learn. The Guard refuse to back down, and decide to return to Pride Rock for advice from his father.

When they return, Kiara informs them that they're still out. In the meantime, the baboons have taken over Pride Rock, and Kiara's not sure what to do. Ono then tells everyone that he has a solution... for Bunga's problem.. However, Kiara reminds them that they have bigger problems. Kion tells everyone to go back to the lair, and that he needs time to think.

Alone, Kion calls for his grandfather, who appears shortly. Kion explains the problem, and Mufasa points out that he can't back down. Kion agrees, but doesn't like the idea of fighting. Mufasa tells him that standing your ground doesn't always involve fighting, which gives Kion an idea.

He returns to the lair, and tells everyone that if Makuu wants a fight, then he needs to know that the Lion Guard can bring him one. Only Kion hopes that a demonstration will be all that is needed. Beshte mentions that the Grove of Trees near the Big Springs has no one living there, and that he could use it there. Kion sends Bunga, Ono and Fuli off to check the area is still free from animals, whilst he and Beshte approach Makuu.

Kion and Beshte have approach Makuu, and start to talk whilst Ono, Fuli and Bunga clear the area of the lone hyrax. Ono gives Beshte the signal, who in turn gives Kion the all clear. Kion warns Makuu one more time, before using the Roar of the Elders on the trees to blast away all the leaves. Stunned, Makuu agrees that it's time to move on, and leaves Big Springs.

Kion and the Guard watch with relief as everyone returns to their usual habitats. As Bunga reveals the hyrax has become attached to him during this time, they laugh together, happy that normality has returned to the Pride Lands.

Bunga the Wise
In Bunga the Wise, Kion and the Lion Guard are out in a storm, trying to save some baboons in a tree that is gradually breaking. Kion has an idea, and orders Bunga to scare the baboons out of the tree. Kion's plan works, and the Guard manages to save the baboons. With the storm subsided, the Lion Guard decide to rest nearby. Kion leaves the group briefly to seek advice from his grandfather, saving a butterfly along the way. When Mufasa appears, he tells Kion that often a quick fix is not the best solution. When Kion returns to the guard, he sees a large stream of water heading straight for them. He wakes them up, and asks Ono to check out what's going on. He informs him that Lake Kaziwa is too full, causing a leak which is getting worse. Kion realises that they need to do something, and Bunga has the idea of blocking the water with rocks.

Other animals arrive and compliment Bunga on his good idea. Kion, however, is not so sure that the quick fix is a good idea. A small amount of water leaks out, and Bunga is quick to stick a stick in it. Rafiki overhears this nearby, and mentions that honey badgers are the smartest animals, before his baobab fall from his hands. As Bunga rushes off to tell his uncles, Kion and the rest of the Lion Guard chase after him, and miss the final part of Rafiki's wisdom as well as the stick becoming loose.

Kion and the rest of the Lion Guard continue chasing after Bunga, but halt when they realize that they forgot the turtles. They turn them the right way up, and then rush off to help the Porcupine Brothers. They push their log over to release the water contained within, then set off to help Ushari and the other cobras. Unfortunately, only Bunga is small enough to get in the hole. Just then, Ono flies over, telling the gang to get to Hakuna Matata Falls.

When they arrive, many animals have gathered together. Timon and Pumbaa explain that Bunga is giving out advice, though Bunga proceeds to give them terrible advice. Kion tells Timon that they need to speak with Bunga. Annoyed, Timon allows them access. They speak with Bunga, who reminds them of Rafiki's words, and that he is now the smartest and bravest animal in the Pride Lands, and that he plans on giving all the animals advice. Timon then ushers Kion and the rest of the Lion Guard out, since other animals are waiting for Bunga's advice.

The Lion Guard sans Bunga are roaming the Pride Lands, when they see an ostrich with her head stuck in the ground, and help her out. They ask what she's doing, and she informs them that she's following Bunga's advice. Ono then sees some Brushbacks eating some pink flowers, and Beshte rushes over to destroy them. Once again, it turns out that they were following advice from Bunga. They then hear a distress call, and find an oryx trapped near a cliff. After Kion and Fuli rescue him, it again turns out to be Bunga's bad advice, having told him the quickest way to the other side was to jump down.

A herd of animals singing Make Way for Bunga the Wise grabs their attention. They run over, to find out that Bunga is taking his advice all over the Pride Lands. As they're talking, the temporary dam bursts and the animals run. Kion tells the Lion Guard to follow him, as he rushes to save some nearby animals.

Kion orders the buffalo and zebras to follow him as they race away from the water. At a junction point, Kion asks Ono which way to go. As Ono sees one route leading outside where the water can follow, he tells them left, though soon realises that he has sent them to a dead end. The other animals look to Bunga for advice, but he confesses that Kion knows best. Kion tells everyone to get behind him, and performs the Roar of the Elders, which pushes the water back and out the other way, with rocks falling down to secure their safety.

The animals and the Lion Guard are finally able to relax near a waterfall that was created when Kion used his Roar. Kion is seen lying contentedly next to Fuli.

Can't Wait to be Queen
Kion is seen facing off with his sister Kiara as the two cubs argue over a tree. Kion says that his sister can't tell him what to do, but his father arrives and says that she can. Simba goes on to explain that he is going to attend the funeral of an old friend, Aminifu, and that Kiara will be acting as temporary queen, much to Kion's surprise. Later, Kion waits for Ono to show up for morning patrol, saying that it isn't like him to be late. When Ono arrives, however, he flies straight over Kion and the rest of the Guard, heading towards Pride Rock. The Lion Guard goes to investigate and discovers that Ono is going to give Kiara the morning report. Kion is very annoyed by this, and as soon as Ono finishes, he asks if he can "have Ono back now". Kiara, however, is thinking about Ono's report that new beehives are being built along a path that the elands are migrating across. She says that the bees might sting the elands, causing chaos, and sends Kion and the Lion Guard to move the elands.

When Kion arrives on the scene, he says that it seems rather silly to move a whole herd of eland over little bugs like bees, and decides to move the bees despite Kiara's order to move the elands, believing he knows more having led the Guard longer than she has been queen. His plan backfires, and the Lion Guard ends up colliding with the eland herd. The Lion Guard returns to Kiara, badly stung by the bees. She scolds Kion for not listening to her, and he argues back.

Later, Mzingo approaches Kiara and offers a peace proposal from Janja. When she tells Kion, he protests, saying that she shouldn't go. However, Kiara says that she might be right like she was about the bees. Kion tells her that this is different, but she refuses to listen and Kion storms away, saying she'll have to do this on her own. He seeks advice from his grandfather, Mufasa, who tells him that Kiara will always need his support, especially when she's wrong. Kion thanks him and rushes to stop Kiara, only to discover from her self-declared advisers, Tiifu and Zuri, that she has already left. He snaps at them and runs to get the Lion Guard.

Meanwhile, in the Outlands, Janja's clan has begun to attack Kiara. She manages to dodge their attacks but is eventually pinned down by Janja. Kion shows up just in time, knocking Janja off of his sister. But Janja's clan still outnumbers them, and the hyenas prepare to attack again. The Lion Guard arrives to stand with their leader and the queen, and Janja flees, not liking the even numbers.

When Kion's parents return, he and Kiara have made it back to the Pride Lands safely. Simba asks if there was any trouble while he was gone, to which Kion replies that it was nothing they couldn't handle.

Eye of the Beholder
The Lion Guard are out in the middle of a wildebeest stampede, trying to locate Janja and the hyenas. Janja is about to make his move on Kion when Ono alerts the cub, and Kion gets the upperhand in the battle despite being pinned down. He pushes Janja against a wildebeest which in turn throws Janja across to the side. As Janja leaves, Kion orders Ono to make certain that they leave the Pride Lands. However, as he's following them up the cavern, his eye is hit by a rock, and in turn he falls all the way back down. Kion sends him to Rafiki.

Rafiki is painting in The Lair of the Lion Guard when the Guard arrive. Rafiki knows just what to do, and gets to work. He gives Ono a green eye patch, advising him to stay out of trouble for 3 days, despite Ono wishing to assist his friends. Kion and the Lion Guard soon start to marvel at Rafiki's paintings, though Rafiki isn't happy with his work. Kion asks Ono what he thinks, but Bunga doesn't believe that Ono can see anything. Ono takes off in a huff, and Kion and the rest of the Guard chase after him.

Ono shoots through the sky, and despite the Lion Guard's protest, he is adamant that he can fly (and see) just fine. He views the setting beneath him, but misses sight of an impending vulture, whom he crashes into. The Guard show concern for their friend, and Kion insists that Ono rest up. Ono is visibly upset, though understands.

Back in the Lair, Kion is posing dramatically for Rafiki, who is still painting. Still not happy with the outcome, Bunga suggests that Kion poses 'more like a lion', and attempts to move his body around for a more powerful pose. Rafiki becomes increasingly annoyed, and Bunga then suggests painting him instead, launching himself into a variety of dynamic poses until a coconut shell covers his head. Kion laughs, though Rafiki's annoyance does not diminish. Kion apologizes, but Rafiki ushers Kion and the Guard and begins to meditate, stating that he needs some peace. His peace is disturbed almost immediately much to his disappointment, as Beshte comes charging in. He explains that his friend Kulu's cousin overheard a buffalo talking about something his sister saw earlier in the day at the canyon near Chakula Plains. When asked what it was, he at first forgets, before telling them that she saw Janja and the hyenas at the edge, overlooking the plains. Kion knows Janja is up to something, and Beshte reminds him that the zebra herds are grazing there. Kion then orders the Lion Guard out, leaving Ono behind, much to his upset.

The Guard arrive at the canyon, and, as they pass, the hyenas push a large stack of rocks in their path. The Guard are about to turn around and return to take the longer path, but Janja pushes a bigger rock nearby, which causes a minor landslide to block the other way. Beshte manages to hold up a steep rock, which the rest of the Guard hide under. Despite Bunga's enthusiasm to do it all over again, Kion knows that the whole scenario is Janja's doing. He confirms this, and taunts the Guard, watching as the lion cub futilely tries to escape. Janja, Cheezi and Chungu then leave, to cause mayhem with the zebra. Bunga urges Kion to use the roar, though Kion refuses, pointing out that the rocks will likely hit the zebra. The other way is also out of bounds, as it would take them too long to reach the herd. Kion shows concern for Beshte when his own attempt to move the rocks fails. Ono then arrives, and gives Kion an idea. He tells Ono to get the zebras to move out of the way, so that he can blast the rocks away.

Ono soon arrives and gives Kion the all-clear. As always, he tells his friends to get behind them, before using the Roar of the Elders to blast the rocks away. The rocks initially land on the hyenas, before they get swept away themselves. With the zebra safely away, Janja makes a retreat with Cheezi and Chungu, and Kion thanks Ono, who is just happy to be back.

Meanwhile, Rafiki has finally finished his portrait. Kion and the rest of the Lion Guard watch as the pictures re-assemble together to form a pyramid-like structure. Rafiki closes by saying that this Lion Guard is better off together.

The Kupatana Celebration
The Lion Guard is seen relaxing with Simba on the day of the Kupatana Celebration when they hear a distressed yelping sound and hyena laughter from the distance. Ono flies up and reports that there is a young jackal pup being chased by Janja's clan. Kion is hesitant to help the pup, seeing as he is an Outlander, but his father encourages him to go save the jackal. Kion and the Guard race to the Outlands, where they find Janja's clan charging at the pup. Kion leaps at Janja, knocking him over and pinning him to the ground. Kion scolds Janja and orders him to stay away from the pup, and Bunga agrees, reminding Janja that it's the day of Kupatana. This appears to please Janja, who laughs and says that if Kion wants the pup, he's all his. This surprises Kion, and he steps off of Janja, who retreats further into the Outlands with his clan, laughing all the while. As soon as they're out of sight, the jackal pup introduces himself as Dogo and thanks the Guard enthusiastically. Kion assures Dogo that he's safe, and warns him to stay away from Janja's territory. Dogo asks if he can come to the Pride Lands with the Lion Guard, saying that he's all alone when Beshte inquires about his family. Kion agrees, and the Lion Guard brings Dogo into the Pride Lands. They take him to a hillside and tell him that he may stay there. Kion then splits up the Lion Guard so that they can patrol the Pride Lands. He leaves with Ono and Fuli. Not long after, Kion is alerted to Beshte and Bunga shouting his name. He has Ono see what the problem is, and Ono replies that Kion had better see it for himself. Puzzled, Kion agrees, and travels back to the Watering Hole, where he encounters a large number of jackal pups and a couple of angry aardvarks. Two adult jackals approach him, introducing themselves as Reirei and Goigoi, Dogo's parents. Kion has Dogo separate himself from his siblings and answer as to why he said that he had no family. Dogo corrects Kion, reminding him that what he actually said was that he was all alone, which he had been at the time. Reirei assures Kion that it was all a misunderstanding, and as Kion considers this, he hears a call for help. Ono takes wing and spots Mbeya the rhino stuck in the mud. Kion permits Reirei to stay with orders to stay away from the aardvarks' dens before going to save Mbeya. However, when Kion and the Guard return after rescuing Mbeya successfully, coated with a sticky layer of mud, they discover even more infuriated Pride Landers, with the jackals at the bottom of the issue. Reirei reasons with Kion again, saying that it's difficult to be in a strange place, and that she wants to be accepted into their community. Kion tells her about the Kupatana Celebration, and Reirei expresses an interest in attending. Kion is slightly uncertain, and he says that she may come only if she can treat everyone in the Pride Lands with respect. Reirei agrees, and Kion and the Guard go to clean the mud off of themselves before Kupatana.

When the time of Kupatana arrives, Kion stands alongside his family. He watches the baobab flower bloom in awe, glancing at his sister with a quiet "Wow". But before the animals can celebrate, the jackal family attacks, causing chaos. Simba asks Kion what's going on, and Kion explains that it's Reirei and her jackal family, blaming himself for the problem. He calls out to the Pride Landers, telling them that they can help the Lion Guard by defending each other. Simba agrees, and the Lion Guard charges into action.

Kion attacks Reirei as she chases a hyrax, accusing her of lying to him. She attempts to lie her way out of the situation, but Simba arrives and orders her to leave, roaring at her when she protests.

After the jackals flee, Kion apologizes to Simba for letting the jackals into the Pride Lands. Simba protests, reminding Kion that it was he who encouraged Kion to save Dogo, adding that Kion's mistake was made in the spirit of Kupatana. He explains that they'd seen Kupatana in action that night. Kion agrees, then assumes aloud that this year's Kupatana Celebration is over. Bunga protests and begins to eat the flowers that had fallen from the baobab tree. The other animals copy him, and the celebration begins. Kion watches them with his family, and Simba notes that everything has its place. Kion agrees, and the two of them wish each other a happy Kupatana.

Fuli's New Family
The Lion Guard are rounding up some buffaloes, and Kion orders Fuli to guide them. He notices another buffalo stuck in the mud, and calls for Beshte and Bunga to sort it out. During the process, Bunga is bitten by Ushari, a venomous snake. Kion is very concerned for his friend, and decides to take him to Rafiki. By the time they get to the Rafiki's Tree, Bunga is acting very dramatic, and appears to be close to death. They discover, however, that it was a false alarm when Rafiki reveals that honey badgers are immune to snakebites. Timon and Pumbaa are delighted by this news, and invite everyone to Hakuna Matata falls for dinner. Kion denies, as he needs to hunt with his family. Fuli denies as well, explaining that female cheetahs hunt alone. Hearing this, Timon insists that she accompanies them for dinner, saying that friends don't let friends eat alone. Kion is concerned by these words, questioning his friendship with Fuli with the other members of the Guard. Kion suggests inviting Fuli to join them in whatever they're doing when they see her alone.

He puts his plan to action later near Pride Rock as he watches Bunga bounce a porcupine on his head. Kion spies Fuli stalking a gazelle, and invites her to hunt with his family. Fuli is excited by this, and thanks Kion for inviting her. She expresses doubt when she discovers that she'll be hunting with Tiifu and Zuri, but Kion explains that they're like family. Fuli stalks the gazelle at Kiara's side, but when she pounces, Nala calls the hunt to a stop. Fuli is annoyed upon discovering that the hunt was only practice, but Kion believes that hunting with friends was enough. Fuli replies angrily, irritated that the guard keeps interrupting her hunt, and rushes away, leaving an upset Kion behind her.

Kion later meets up with the Guard. He asks anyone if they've seen Fuli, and together, they decide that perhaps their friend is best left alone sometimes. However, not knowing where she is, the Guard searches for her. Ono flies up high and spots both her and Bunga in the Outlands, floating down a river of lava. He reports back to the Guard, and they rush to the Outlands to rescue their friend. They arrive just in time, and Kion orders Beshte to push over a tree. The tree lands in the lava, providing Fuli with and escape. Janja's clan tries to follow, but Fuli leaps off of the log, trapping them in the river of lava.

Back in the Pride Lands, the Guard decides to cool off at the Watering Hole, but Kion remembers that Fuli likes to be alone and tells her that it's okay if she'd rather not. Fuli explains that whilst she likes to be alone while hunting, she does in fact enjoy hanging out with them, and that she considers them her family. Fuli even allows Beshte, Bunga, and Ono to hug her, and invites Kion to join in.

The Search for Utamu
Ono locates some buffaloes who have moved away from their herd, reporting back to Kion and the rest of the Guard. Thy can't see the problem, but Ono points out that they're standing right next to a geyser. They question Ono after he explains to them what a geyser actually is, until it erupts. Fuli rushes to save the buffalo ahead of the rest of the Guard. Kion is surprised to see how well she handled it alone, having thought she needed the rest of the Guard. Suddenly, a voice cries for help, and Ono alerts them to some galagos who are hanging from a tree. Much to Kion's surprise, Fuli handles it alone once again.

The team then begins walking home. Bunga notices that the water has reached the trees of Mapema Rock and tells them that it's the peak of the rainy season, meaning that it is time for the Utamu grubs to come out. Just as he starts to inform the Guard of their tastiness, a cry for help causes them to divert their attention. Ono spots a serval in trouble, and rushes off to save him. When the Guard catches up to her, Kion is visibly annoyed. He questions why she didn't wait for them, though Fuli reminds him that she is the fastest. Kion reveals that he is concerned that she'll get worn out, to which Fuli replies that they don't. Bunga interrupts as he walks away, declaring his search for the Utamu grubs and asking who's in. When Fuli tries to follow him, Kion refuses her, telling her to rest. She becomes annoyed, though Beshte backs up Kion's words. The Guard leaves with Bunga (sans Fuli).

Soon, Kion asks Bunga where to go, and he tells them to follow the dung. Noticing their confusion, Ono explains that they're dung beetle larvae, and that the dung beetles will lead them to their home. Kion is surprised that Bunga knew that, but soon get right on track. As the Guard follow the dung beetles (at an incredibly slow pace), Beshte questions what's so special about the grubs. Bunga explains that they were the reason he met Timon and Pumbaa, and begins to tell the tale to Kion, Ono and Beshte. After hearing his tale, they are happy to help. Luckily for them, despite the dung beetles leaving during the tale, the Guard are right next to the tree regardless.

Having found the tree with the grubs, Bunga begins to scale it, though Kion is concerned that the dead tree won't hold him. After a branch breaks off, the team breathe a sigh of relief as Bunga has already made it to the next branch. However, the tree starts to bend as Bunga approaches the branch containing the grubs. Kion orders Beshte to hold the tree, and Ono to hold the branch. However, Ono then sees the circling vultures in the distance, and informs Kion, who calls the trio back. Eventually, Bunga is returned though without his utamu grubs. Kion apologizes, but points out that they need to see what the vultures are up to. They leave, and Kion asks Ono to keep an eye out for Fuli.

Just then, Ono sees Fuli in danger. The Guard rushes to her aid, with Kion pushing Mzingo out of the way, as the others attack the remaining vultures. Mzingo calls for his group to reconvene, and Kion steps forward. He tells the vultures that when you mess with one member of the Guard, you mess with the whole Guard. He then uses the Roar of the Elders to blast the birds away. Fuli is grateful for the help, though also a little embarrassed. Kion tells her not to be, though Fuli admits her mistake in trying to do everything on her own. When Bunga becomes a little upset, Kion and the Guard move on to Hakuna Matata Falls.

Bunga returns to his uncles empty handed. Timon and Pumbaa explain to him that the only real reason they have Utamu grubs on this day is to celebrate the day they met him. They share a hug, which makes Beshte happy. Timon then reveals that they managed to get the grubs this year themselves anyway - because a branch containing the Utamu had fallen on top of them. Ono says that he can easily believe it, and Timon, Pumbaa and Bunga celebrate their friendship by eating the Utamu as Kion and the other members of the Guard watch with happiness.

Follow That Hippo!
After hearing several Pride Landers yelling about a hyena attack, Kion and the Guard arrive on the scene. They sight an area of shaking grass blades, and Kion orders the Guard to surround it. He demands that the hyenas show themselves, and two young animals, Gumba and Kambuni, reveal themselves. They explain that it was all a game, and the baboon adds that it was Mtoto's idea. Kion turns to a young elephant and has him confirm that he is Mtoto before ordering Ono to inform the Pride Landers that it was a false alarm. He then asks the young animals about their game, and they explain that they take turns pretending to be members of the Lion Guard. Kion and the Guard explain that there are hyenas in the Pride Lands, and that is why everyone got so upset. Mtoto soon suggests that the real Lion Guard plays their game with them, but Kion declines, explaining that the Guard needs to train.

Kion, Fuli, Bunga, and Ono reach their destination before Beshte does. When Beshte arrives, he explains that he brought Mtoto along, and Kion accepts this before announcing that they are going to do an obstacle course. Mtoto asks if he can run it, and Kion allows it, but tells Beshte to stay with him. The first obstacle involves jumping over boulders, and Kion completes the task quickly. The second involves running through a shallow pool of water. Kion comments that Fuli with "love this one" before he crosses. Fuli choses to leap over the water, and Kion notes that she'll do anything to stay dry. Mtoto attempts to complete the obstacle, but ends up spraying water out of his trunk. Kion manages to avoid getting wet, but Fuli is soaked by the blast.

Kion then decides to try a stealth training course in which the other members of the Guard try to sneak up on him. He asks Ono to fly up and look for hyenas while he hides. Fuli and Bunga both complete the task, though Bunga choses to jump on Kion outright rather than remaining stealthy all the way through. Beshte then rushes to them in a panic, exclaiming that he cannot find Mtoto. Mtoto announces his presence atop a tall rock, but trips and falls. Beshte manages to rescue him, but Kion decides that it is time for Mtoto to head home.

The next stage of training is a racing course. Kion watches Bunga race Fuli and lose, but assures him that as long as they're both faster than hyenas, that's good enough for him. Once again, he asks Ono to search for hyenas, and adds that he should look for Beshte while he's at it. Ono soon returns to them and reports that he failed to find Beshte. Knowing that something's up, Kion and the Guard begin to search for their friend. They discover via Mtoto's friends that Beshte went to save Mtoto from hyenas, and go to help him.

The Guard arrives to discover Mtoto and Beshte heading straight for hyenas, with crocodiles pursuing them. Kion leaps forward as Fuli and Bunga deal with the hyenas, landing on the crocodiles' snouts and forcing their jaws shut, allowing Beshte and Mtoto to make it safely onto shore. The hyenas, now trapped in the water, flee as the crocodiles begin to chase them, to the amusement of Kion and the others. Back with Mtoto's friends, Kion notes that the kids had experienced quite an adventure. He announces that they've earned the Mark of the Guard, and dips his paw in mud before pressing it to Mtoto's shoulder, leaving a muddy imprint that resembles the mark. Mtoto's friends surround him, begging to be given the mark next.

The Call of the Drongo
Kion and the Lion Guard are approached by a panicky hare, jerboa, and Muhangus. Kion asks them what's wrong, and each yells out the name of a villain- Makuu, Goigoi, and Janja. Kion divides the Guard into groups to take care of the problem, deciding to deal with Janja himself. He follows Mr. Aardvark back to where Janja's voice was heard and crouches down beside him, pouncing where Mr. Aardvark reported Janja to be, but discovering that nobody is around. He examines the area, but does not locate any trace of the hyenas, however, Mr. Aardvark finds that is lunch of bugs has vanished. The rest of the Guard rejoins him, reporting that they too did not find any of the villains that they were looking for. Bunga suggests that the villains heard them coming and left, but Kion doubts this, pointing out that he was unable to find even tracks of the hyenas. Fuli and Bunga mention that they didn't find any jackal or crocodile tracks either, and Kion notes that Janja does not eat bugs. He asks the Pride Landers if they were sure that they had seen Makuu, Goigoi, and Janja, and they admit that they only heard their voices saying "I'm gonna eat you". Kion is unsure that Makuu, Goigoi, and Janja all said the same thing, and points out that something strange is going on. He asks Ono to scout the Pride Lands, but just then, they hear Janja's voice yelling and go to find out what is going on.

Upon reaching the area from where Janja's voice was heard, Kion notices a the leaves on a bush trembling. He stalks forward, but Ono lands on the bush and points out that it is only a drongo, who introduces himself as Tamaa. Kion tries to reassure him that he is safe, and Tamaa reports that Janja and his hyenas ran off and shows the Guard the direction in which they went. The Guard rushes off to find the hyenas, but Ono stops them and circles back. Kion is puzzled by this, but follows him. They return to Tamaa and spot him imitating Janja to scare off a hyrax. As Tamaa approaches the hyrax's lunch, Kion stops him. Tamaa explains his "talent" to the Guard, and Kion realizes that he has been using it to scare animals in the Pride Lands. Tamaa eventually admits that he did, but makes excuses for himself and further explains his talent. Kion lectures Tamaa briefly and adds that if he had an amazing talent, he would use it for good. Tamaa concedes and promises to use his talent only for good. Suddenly, the Guard hears the sound of hyena laughter, and Ono reports that Janja and his hyenas are after a herd of impalas. Irritated that the Guard has been wasting time with Tamaa, Kion orders Tamaa to no longer imitate before going to rescue the impalas.

The Lion Guard stops the hyenas, allowing the impalas to escape. Kion gives the hyenas until the count of three to leave, and Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu are quick to flee. Once they are gone, Kion hopes aloud that Tamaa keeps his promise. The Guard is later approached by Thurston, who tells them to head for the Outlands, as they are the "only safe place to be". When Fuli asks where he got such an idea, Thurston reports that it was Kion who gave it to him. Kion denies this, but Thurston insists that he heard Kion saying it to the impalas. Kion has him confirm that he only heard Kion's voice, but did not see him. Beshte wonders why Tamaa would tell the impalas to go to the Outlands, and Fuli adds that it sounds more like Janja's doing, and Kion says that perhaps it was Janja and Tamaa together, adding that Tamaa may not have had a choice about helping Janja. He leads the Guard as they run towards the Outlands, and soon hears the sound of Bunga's voice coming from the direction in which they are running.

When Kion arrives in the Outlands, he finds Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu confronting Tamaa. Kion orders them away from the drongo and pounces on Janja, pinning him to the ground. Janja claims that they were only trying to help the lost impalas, and Kion declares that he and the Guard will take care of the herd. He allows Janja to escape and leads the impalas back to their home. Once they are back in the Pride Lands, Kion compliments Tamaa on his courage, and Tamaa says that he will now stick to his promise and only imitate others for good.

Paintings and Predictions
Kion and the Guard arrive on the scene when a young gazelle gets his hoof stuck under a rock. Kion asks Ono to see if the gazelle is all right, and Ono informs Kion of the gazelle's predicament. Kion gives the Guard instructions, and Bunga manages to pull the gazelle free, but the pair of them end up sliding down a steep slope. Kion races after Bunga, who manages to grab the gazelle, and takes his friend's tail between his teeth. He unsheathes his claws and pulls, stopping the gazelle just before he falls off of a cliff. It begins to rain, and with the gazelle finally safe, the Guard heads to the Lair.

At the Lair, Beshte dives into the water, splashing Fuli. Kion chuckles, but Fuli is not amused. They do not manage to relax long, however, and Ono soon flies in bearing news. Kion asks if the baby gazelle is all right, and Ono confirms that he is, but tells Kion that the zebras are stampeding. Fuli points out that it's one of "those days", and Kion agrees, calling the Guard to calm down the zebras before they injure somebody. They race out of the Lair and catch up with the running zebras. Ono flies above and tells Kion that the zebras are stampeding towards a hyrax family, and Kion realizes that the zebras need to be stopped before they reach the hyraxes. He is soon alerted to a second issue; a rock is about to fall where the zebra herd is running. Kion instructs Fuli to turn the herd, and she does so successfully. He then tells the Guard to slow the herd down, and soon the zebras are grazing safely. Kion reports that the hyraxes too are safe, and Bunga leaves with Beshte to show him something back at the Lair.

Kion asks Thurston what caused the stampede, and Thurston recalls that they heard a "great big boom". Ono explains that he probably means thunder, and reassures them that they no longer have anything to worry about. Kion adds that they can all go home, and Thurston asks where home is. Kion tells Ono to make sure that the zebras get home safely, and though at first Thurston doesn't know how to follow Ono, he soon runs after his herd. Kion and Fuli return to Pride Rock, where Fuli wonders aloud if the zebras made it home safely. Kion reminds her that Ono is keeping an eye on them. Bunga calls his name, and Kion asks him what he was showing Beshte as the pair of them approach. Bunga claims that Rafiki's paintings predict the future, and Kion says that he doesn't believe it. Ono interrupts him, reporting that the hyenas are chasing the zebras. Kion realizes that there's no time to waste, and orders Ono to lead him to the zebras. Bunga tries to remind him of the paintings, but Kion tells him that there isn't time.

Upon seeing the zebras, Kion gives instructions to the rest of the Guard, telling them to leave Janja to him. He runs after Janja, who chases a zebra around a large boulder. Noticing a bent-over tree at the top of the boulder, he begins to climb it. As he steps across the branch, Bunga collides with him and knocks them both off, causing them to land right on top of Janja. After making sure that Janja leaves, Kion demands of Bunga why he knocked him off of the tree. The rest of the Guard joins them, and Ono reports that three zebras are missing. Kion makes sure that the hyenas didn't get to them, and Ono explains that they're stranded at Maji Baridi Falls. Kion says that they need to get them back, and asks Ono to lead the way. Along the way, Kion leaps over Ushari. Bunga ends up tangled with the cobra, and Kion orders him to leave Ushari alone. Ono lands on a tree and tells Kion that the zebras are visible from there, and Kion begins to climb it, but is stopped by the rest of the Guard, to his confusion. Ono informs Kion that he knows of a shortcut to the zebras, but Bunga declares that he knows a shorter shortcut and pushes Kion in a different direction.

After swimming through a creek, Kion spots the zebras from across a fast-moving river. He notices a tree with a branch hanging over the river, and begins to step across the branch, calling the Guard over to join him. Ono lands in front of him, stopping him, and Fuli, Beshte, and Bunga climb onto the branch. They end up launching Kion off of it and onto the other side, and Kion demands to know what is going onThe Guard explains that Rafiki's paintings pictured Kion falling off of a tree branch, and Kion dismisses this, saying that it's impossible for the paintings to tell the future and that they should focus on the zebras. However, Beshte bumps into a boulder, which rolls towards the zebras. They manage to escape, but fall into the river, which carries them towards Maji Baridi Falls. Kion decides to use the Roar of the Elders from a branch over the waterfall, and goes through with his plan despite Bunga's protests. Kion's plan works, and the zebras are saved. He slips from the branch, but lands on a ledge right below.

Back at the Lair, Rafiki explains that his paintings only show the past, and that the painting that Bunga mistook for Kion was actually Kion's grandfather. As Bunga scrubs the floor of the Lair due to having spilled paint all over it, Kion laughs with Rafiki and the Guard.

The Mbali Fields Migration
Ono reports to Kion and the Guard that there is trouble with the zebras and the gazelles. Kion doubtfully repeats that there is trouble with both of them, and Ono explains that they are the trouble, as they are fighting each other. Kion realizes that the Guard had better check out the situation, and leads them to the grazing grounds of the two herds. Upon seeing the battling animals, Beshte remarks that the zebras are led by Muhimu and the gazelles by Swala, and that the pair of them are friends. Kion notes that something isn't right, and asks Ono if he can see Muhimu and Swala. The egret reports that they're in the middle of everything, and Kion decides to go to them. He approaches the two leaders and orders them to stop, then asks what is going on. They inform him that the trouble was about their grazing grounds, and Kion tells them that there's plenty of grass for all of them. Ono, however, reports to Kion that there is no grass other than where they're standing. Kion decides that they need to find a place with enough grass for both herds, and goes to ask his father where such a place is.

Kion returns to Pride Rock and speaks with Simba, inquiring if there is a place with enough grass for the zebras and gazelles to share. Simba points out Mbali Fields, and Kion wonders aloud if the herds will be able to make it that far. Simba declares that he will send the Lion Guard with them, and tells Kion that he can do whatever he puts his mind to. Kion thanks his father and vows not to let him down. Before the trip begins, Ono alights in front of Kion and reports that everyone is ready. Kion asks about the route they will be taking, and Ono says that it's pretty simple, to Kion's relief. He then announces to the herds that he will try to lead them to Mbali Fields safely, and Muhimu calls out that they trust him. Kion thanks them and asks Ono to point the way. The migration begins, and after a while, Kion asks Ono how it's going. Ono tells him that it seems everyone is slowing down, and Kion tries to encourage the herds, informing them that it isn't much further. However, Muhimu is too eager to wait, and dashes ahead, causing a stampede, despite Kion's attempts to warn the herds about the steep slope.

Kion and the Lion Guard race forward to stop the zebras and gazelles. Ono points out a rock about to fall, and Kion runsin front of the herds and halts them, telling them to run back. Once the animals are safely out of the way, Kion examines the fallen rocks. He determines that they'll need to go around them, and asks Ono to scout out a route. Ono manages to find one, but unfortunately, it leads through the Outlands. Kion declares that if they must go through the Outlands to get the herds to Mbali Fields safely, then they will. Soon after he speaks, a storm begins. As the Guard leads the herd away from the fallen rocks, Kion overhears the animals making negative comments about his leadership. Fuli notes that the water level is rising, and is quick to alert Kion of an approaching flash flood. Kion instructs the herds to head for higher ground, then gives orders to the Guard. He pulls Swala out of the fast-moving waters, but once everyone is safe, he hears her saying that it was his fault she was in danger in the first place.

Bunga asks Kion what to do next, and Kion replies that he doesn't know. He tells the Guard to watch over the herds, and goes to seek advice from his grandfather Mufasa. He explains his problems, saying that he thinks the animals may be right in saying that he's a bad leader. Mufasa tells him to trust himself and to be confident, and Kion thanks him before returning to the herds. He is immediately approached by Swala and an angry zebra, who confront him about not being at the new grazing grounds, and Kion reassures them that they aren't there yet, but that they will make it. Muhimu declares that she trusts him and promises to make things easier from now on. Kion thanks her and announces that they're going to head through the Outlands, and promises to keep the Pride Landers safe despite the dangers there.

In the Outlands, Kion tells the herds to be as quiet as they can. However, Muhimu cries out and reveals that she is about to give birth. Kion decides that the Guard should split up, and though Fuli is at first reluctant, she eventually agrees. Once Muhimu's Son is born, Kion gazes at him in awe and says, "Whoa."

Suddenly, Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu charge at the zebras, who panic and run. Kion orders them to stick together, and though they first ignore him, Muhimu tells them to listen to him. He and the zebras form a circle around Muhimu, and when Janja lunges, Kion meets him midair and pins him to the ground. However, he is knocked away by Chungu, who Kion overpowers and swings in a circle before flinging him away. Janja, having being overpowered by Muhimu's newborn foal, flees with Cheezi and Chungu on his tail.

The migration ends safely, with the herds being led to Mbali Fields. Kion remarks that nothing went as expected, but that they succeeded anyway. Kion laughs along with Fuli, Beshte, and Ono as Bunga talks to Muhimu's son.

Bunga and the King
Nala summons Kion and Kiara, reminding them that they don't want to be late for a concert performed by the elephants, and Simba agrees, noting that the elephants find it insulting if the royal family isn't present for the first song. Kion declares that the first song is the best part, and eagerly runs after his sister when she challenges him to a race. However, Ono halts him, reporting antelope stuck in the mud near Chekundu Cliffs. Kion asks if anyone was hurt, and Ono reports that they weren't, but that they're really stuck. Kion tells his father that he'll have to miss the elephants' concert, and both Simba and Nala permit him to go. Kion follows Ono to the stuck antelope, where he and Fuli are soon trying to haul an antelope out of the mud by the antlers. They hear a loud sound, and Ono flies up and reports that it appears the king has fallen into a sinkhole. Kion is concerned for his father, and Fuli encourages himto go check it out, assuring him that the Guard will take care of the antelope. Kion thanks Fuli and tells Ono to lead the way. Upon reaching the sinkhole, Kion rushes over to his mother and asks if Simba is okay. Nala informs him that his father is stuck, and the rest of the Guard arrives on the scene. Heedless of Kion's warning to wait, Bunga dives into the sinkhole. Kion calls down, asking Bunga and Simba if they're okay, and Simba explains that Bunga is fine. Kion inquires what happened, and Simba simply tells him that he fell into a sinkhole. Kion assures his father that they'll find a way to get both him and Bunga out of the sinkhole, and orders Ono to fly down and take a look. When Ono returns, Kion asks him if he was able to sight any way for Bunga and Simba to get out of the sinkhole. Ono responds that he wasn't, then requests that Kion not to send him down there again, and Kion agrees. Suddenly, the ground begins to shatter beneath them, and the group flees to safer ground. Kion declares that everyone needs to stay back, and Nala agrees. As Kion hears Simba shooting down Bunga's ideas from within the sinkhole, he remarks that it doesn't sound like they're getting along. Nala says that she's not surprised, and Kion asks what she means. Nala and Kiara explain that Bunga can be somewhat trying, and Kion tells them that while Bunga can be stubborn, he's still his best friend. Kion rushes to the edge again when he hears another crash, but it turns out that Bunga and Simba and both fine, and that Bunga had attempted to climb out. This gives Kion an idea, and he leads the Guard away, returning with a long tree trunk that he is pushing with the rest of the Guard. Kion tells his father that they're going to push the tree into the hole so that Bunga and Simba can climb up, but the plan fails, with Kion remarking that it didn't work as well as he thought it would. Bunga notices a hole, and Simba realizes that it might lead to Nandembo Caverns. Kion decides to take the Guard there and meet them, warning them to be careful. However, the Guard proves unwilling to enter the Caverns, and Kion decides to take Timon along with them. In the Caverns, Timon and Pumbaa prove to be very upset that the two animals they raised are trapped, and Kion has to explain to Fuli why he decided to bring Timon along. Timon eventually composes himself and leads Kion and the others along, apologizing for having lost control. He stares in slight confusion as Pumbaa and Timon explain what it's like to have kids. Suddenly, Kion hears Bunga and Simba's voices and calls out to them. He hears them call back and rushes forward, but finds that a gorge lies between them. He watches in disbelief as Bunga climbs onto Simba's back and Simba leaps the gorge. He begins to remark on the change in their relationship, and Bunga declares that they're brothers, to Kion's confusion.

Kion and the others arrive at the elephant concert just after the song finishes. He sings Hakuna Matata with the Guard and his family.

The Imaginary Okapi
While playing hide-and-seek, Kion leaps onto Fuli, meaning that it is now her turn to be it. She questions why they're playing hide-and-seek, and he explains that it's a tracking training exercise. They approach Bunga and Ono, and Bunga declares that Kion found him right away. Kion notes that Bunga laughed as he walked by. Ono adds that the lion cub found him quickly as well, and Fuli asks if Kion has found Beshte. Kion informs her that he has, but he hasn't told Beshte, and calls for Beshte to come out from behind some rocks. Kion orders Fuli to count so the others can hide, and she complies. No sooner has she called for the group to hide do Kion and the others vanish. Fuli soon calls for the others, ending the game early, and Kion rushes over to her and asks her what for. She points out some tracks, which Kion recognizes as leopard tracks. Ono notes that there aren't any leopard Pride Landers, and Kion tells him that there is one now, though they don't know where, and has him fly up to look for it. Ono descends and reports that the leopard is stalking gazelles, and Kion tells him to lead the way. The Guard reaches the herd, and Kion slides in front of the leopard, ordering him to get out of the Pride Lands. The predator introduces himself as Makucha and dashes away, the Guard in pursuit. Makucha evades them by outrunning Fuli leaping over a ravine, causing Kion to realize that the leopard will be difficult to catch. When Ono remarks that the gazelles didn't appear frightened of Makucha at all, Kion explains why Makucha must be stopped; none of the gazelles are away that leopards are hunters. He decides that the Guard should split up to cover more ground, and in doing so realizes Beshte has yet to rejoin them. Bunga and Ono soon bring Beshte back, and Kion states that he's pleased that they found him and tells him about Makucha. Beshte becomes distressed, saying that he told Ajabu that there were no leopards in the Pride Lands. Kion questions who Ajabu is, and Beshte winds up tromping through the bushes looking for his "new friend". Kion asks Bunga what's going on, and the honey badger tells Kion that Beshte has an imaginary friend. Beshte and Bunga begin to quarrel, and Kion stops them, declaring that they have no time for such things at the moment, as they need to catch Makucha. Kion begins tracking Makucha by following his prints, and locates the way he went before the leopard's traces vanish in the tall grass. Beshte yells that he sees him and rushes forward, with Kion and the others following. The Lion Guard winds up running through a flock of flamingos, to no avail other than being covered in feathers. Kion asks if Beshte was sure that he saw Makucha, but Beshte informs the Guard that he was searching for Ajabu. Bunga and Beshte begin to argue once more, and Beshte ends up leaving, causing Kion to scold Bunga for hunting their friend's feelings, asking why Bunga and Ono don't believe the hippo's claims. When asked if he believes Beshte, Kion notifies them that he does, adding that Beshte doesn't make things up. He points out that that Beshte's new friend was said to be chased by a leopard and suddenly there is a leopard in the Pride Lands, and the others believe him. Kion is pleased when the others decide to apologize to Beshte. Once they do, Kion reminds them that they have to believe Makucha is hunting for Ajabu. Beshte rushes off to find Ajabu before Makucha does, and Kion calls for his friend to wait up as he follows. Not long after, the cries of a zebra herd alert him to Makucha's nearby presence, and he leads the Guard forward. As they pursue the leopard, Kion notes that it's odd that the leopard didn't attack any of the zebras. He has Beshte confirm that the leopard was likely after Ajabu, and declares that as Makucha and Ajabu are in the Pride Lands, the Lion Guard will protect them. Just then, Ajabu runs by with Makucha running after him. Kion leads the Guard after the two newcomers. After Beshte knocks Makucha to the ground, the leopard asks the Guard to mind their own business. Kion states that this is their business and tells him that it's time for him to leave. Kion growls and bares his teeth as Makucha stalks forward, but Beshte bellows and charges at him, causing the leopard to flee with Bunga clinging to his tail. Kion orders his friend to let go, and Bunga complies. Beshte introduces the group to Ajabu, who declares that he doesn't know how to thank them for saving him, to which Kion simply responds that it's what they do. When Ajabu reveals that he has nothing to do but go to his home, where Makucha is surely waiting, Kion has an idea. He takes Ajabu to his parents and explains that the okapi needs their blessing to stay in the Pride Lands. They welcome him, and the Guard decides to play hide-and-seek with him now that he's a Pride Lander.

Too Many Termites
Kion and the Guard rushes to the aid of Muhanga and Muhangus. Mugangus to very greatful to see them, and Kion declares that they came as fast as they could. Muhangus explains that their den is full of hyenas, and Fuli recalls that they've had to chase away hyenas every night of the week, causing Kion to state that he knows something that will scare them away for good. He leads the Guard forward until they see the hyenas, then orders everyone to remain behind him. He climbs onto a rock and orders the hyenas out of the Pride Lands, then uses the Roar of the Elders to send them flying back into the Outlands, adding for them to stay out once he's finished.

Later, in the Lair of the Lion Guard, termites are crawling everywhere. Kion kicks a branch filled with them over to Bunga for him to eat. Ono flies in, calling for their attention, and Kion asks what's wrong. The egret informs them that a tree is falling apart at Mekundu Cliffs. Kion tells Ono that's not really an emergency, but Ono explains that the Mekundu Bats are inside. Kion assures him that he was right to fetch them and leads them to the Cliffs. Kion asks Ono for the fastest route, and Ono tells him across a tree that's balanced on either end of a ravine. The Guard makes it across, and no sooner have they does the tree split apart and fall. Kion goes back and looks over the edge of the ravine, exclaiming his catchphrase at the sight of the shattered log. The Guard begins to discuss how it fell, but Kion reminds them that they still have to save the Mekundu Bats.

Once the Guard reaches the fallen tree, a branch falls, forcing them to jump back. Kion realizes that the whole thing is about to come down, and that they must awaken the bats. He and the rest of the Guard begin shouting, but when Kion presses his ear against the tree, he hears nothing. Bunga goes in loudly orders the bats out, and this time they wake up and obey. Kion cries his friend's name, but the tree crumbles before Bunga can emerge. However, the honey badger is safe, chewing on the termites that the tree is packed with. Fuli remarks that she's not okay with all the trmies around, and Kion agrees. He thinks that they may have eaten through the tree branch as well as the whole tree, causing it to collapse. He decides to consult his father.

Simba understands why they came, are Kion states that they don't know why there are so many termites. Simba suggests that they consult the aardwolves, who control the termite population in the Pride Lands. Kion decides to make sure that they're okay, and asks his father where they live. Simba informs him that they like to sleep in aardvark dens, causing Kion to exchange a wide-eyed glance with Fuli. Kion inquires as to what aardwolves look like, and Simba explains that they look a lot like hyenas, and Kion exchanges another look with Fuli. He confesses to his father that he may have mistakenly kicked the aardwolves out of the Pride Lands, and blames himself more than the rest of the Guard, as he was the one who roared at them. He apologizes, and Simba nudges him, telling him that it's what one does to correct their mistakes that matters. Kion thanks him and promises to make things right before heading out of the Pride Lands in search of the aardwolves.

As they track the aardwolves through the Outlands, Kion soon notices that the scent is getting stronger. Bunga finds the aardwolves, but they run away, for a reason unknown to Kion. He realizes that they must convince them to return to the Pride Lands. He notes that they're fast, and though Fuli tries to stop them, she fails. He makes sure she's okay, then realizes that the aardwolves are afraid of them, because they don't know that his roaring at them was a mistake, and that they must convince them that the Guard has good intentions. Ono spots an aardwolf running towards a cliff, and the Guard approaches him. Kion apologizes and explains his mistake and informs him that they want the aardwolf pack to return to the termite-overrun Pride Lands. The aardwolf proves eager to help, and Kion calls for him to wait as he leads them forward.

They find where the aardwolves are hiding, and Kion realizes that they need a new plan. Kion asks Mjomba to enter the cave and tell the others that the Guard means no harm, and orders him to simply stick his head out when he's certain that they won't run. However, the cave soon shuts from the outside. Kion wonders why the aardwolves did this, and, remembering his promise to his father, leads the Guard to the cave. He has Ono see if there's a crack, and the bird complies, soon reporting back with a single word, "jackals." The Guard breaks into the den, and Kion orders Reirei away from Mjomba. He pins her to the ground, and she admits that she wishes he'd come later. He believes this, and after making sure that Bunga has Goigoi, orders Reirei to go home, permitting Bunga to release Goigoi. Mjomba asks if he can go home and eat, and Kion declares that's the best idea he's heard all day.

Back at the Lair, Kion asks an apathetic Bunga how he's doing. Ono gives him some termites, a gift from the aardwolves, and Bunga declares that he feels better, causing Kion and the Guard to laugh.

The Trouble With Galagos
At Hakuna Matata Falls, Kion and the rest of the Lion Guard are happily relaxing, whilst Bunga performs a few dives for them. Before Bunga can continue his demonstration, a group of galagos cry for help and rush past him to speak with their leader. One galago, Laini, leaps onto Kion's muzzle and pleads for his help. Beshte approaches Laini and asks her what's wrong whilst she continues her hold on Kion's face. She worriedly informs them that a leopard has moved into their tree. Although Ono disputes this, Laini is positive of what she saw, and again pleads for Kion's help. After Kion's muffled voice reminds her where she is, the galago finally removes herself from his mouth and he agrees to help. Kion orders them to stay at the Falls, though Laini insists on travelling with the Lion Guard for their safety. Kion, disagrees, gently setting Laini down on the ground as he reminds her that they will be safer away from the leopard.

Just then, a cry for help emerges nearby. Ono scans the area and reveals a giraffe is stuck in a tree. Kion is about to order the Guard away, when Laini becomes slightly hysterical, crying out that Kion had promised to deal with the leopard. Kion confirms that he will, and that they just need to save the giraffe first, before leaving with the rest of the Guard in tow.

They rush to the scene, where Shingo has his neck trapped in the tree. He explains that he was trying to get the last of the leaves from the acacia tree, but as he extends his tongue again to reach them, it too, becomes trapped in the twigs. Kion sends Bunga up to help out. Bunga does so, freeing his tongue and then freeing his neck as Kion watches.

Just then, screams alert them to the galagos' presence, where the galagos once again stampede over to the Guard, grasping them in similar locations once more, and even ambushing Shingo in their panicked frenzy. When Kion demands to know why they did not stay, Laini tells them how they heard a 'pfft' sound, followed by an awful smell. After it is revealed to be Pumbaa, Kion orders them to return to the Falls. Despite this, they insist once again on joining the Lion Guard. Back at the galagos tree, the Lion Guard spot the sleeping leopard. Kion tells the galagos wait behind whilst they deal with the leopard. Laini reminds Kion that the leopard is fierce, but Kion confidently reminds her that so is he. The Lion Guard approach the tree, and Kion orders the Guard to surround it for when the leopard wakes up. Kion gives the go ahead, and Ono startles the leopard who drops down to the ground, growling intimidatingly at the Lion Guard. As Kion and the Guard approach, the leopard becomes jittery and wails loudly, pleading with the Guard not to hurt him. He explains that he thought they were baboons, since they were chasing him in his dream and introduces himself as Badili, the big, friendly leopard. When Kion questions him on why he kicked the galagos out of his home, he asks what they are with slight fear. When presented with the galagos, he is charmed by their cuteness, and attempts to say hello. However, the finicky creatures see his claws and shriek in fear. When Kion notices this, Badili informs him they shouldn't be afraid, and that it was an accident since he had nowhere else to go. Kion asks about his own home, and Badili confirms that it's in Mirihi Forest, where Ono recognises is from the Back Lands. Badili praises the Pride Land trees, and asks if he can share the tree with the galagos. However, at the sight of his teeth, the galagos refuse, and Kion agrees that Badili can't stay there. Badili once again tries to persuade them by stating that he's lots of fun and offers a game of tag. Becoming frustrated, Kion asks if there's a reason why he refuses to return, and Badili answers nervously that he just wanted to try a new home. After Beshte offers to walk them home, Badili responds with a feigned euphoria. Kion seems suspicious, but confirms that the galagos have the tree again and soon starts to walk Badili home.

The Lion Guard escort the leopard home, but when Ono sees Mirihi Forest just ahead, Badili mentions that he's parched and that there's a watering hole he wishes to check out that they saw a little earlier. Kion asks why he keeps making excuses, but Badili assures him that there's nothing wrong. He slinks away, thanking them for accompanying him. As he leaves, Kion leads the Lion Guard to a small bush nearby, where they watch Badili from a distance.

Although Bunga is itching to leave, Kion is adamant about staying. They watch Badili scratch his claws on a nearby tree, when suddenly another leopard named Mapigano leaps down and roars, frightening Badili. Mapigano begins to browbeat Badili, and Kion realises that Badili needs someone to stand up for him. After a while, the Lion Guard decide to intervene. The Lion Guard intimidate Mapigano, who eventually decides to retreat after insulting Badili and claiming that they were 'friends'. When Mapigano leaves, Badili is excited and thanks the Lion Guard. Kion is certain he won't return now that the Lion Guard has his back, and the Guard part ways with Badili.

Soon, the Guard are back to their patrol, with Ono confirming that Embamba Canyon is clear. Kions comments that they'll finish patrol early, when suddenly Laini and the galagos rush up to up to Kion. Sure enough, it turns out that Badili is back in their tree. The Lion Guard approach the sleeping leopard, and awaken him from his slumber. Badili reveals that Mapigano returned. Although Kion believes that getting rid of him was the wrong thing to do, Badili is adamant that it was actually the right thing to do, and asks if they will do it again. Kion rejects his request, stating that they need to teach Badili how to stand up for himself, since Mapigano did not need a fight to run away. Badili reminds them that they're the Lion Guard, though he is reminded that Mapigano did not know that - all he saw were animals that would not back down. Kion also informs Badili that their confidence stems from their belief in themselves. Kion agrees to teach him how to be fierce, and when Ono can't decide on what to teach him, Kion recommends teaching him about eye contact, which would boost his sureness. Badili eventually comes around to the idea. The Lion Guard soon teach Badili how to find his roar, with Kion narrowing his eyes towards the leopard. This causes Badili to dispel his doubts and let out a mighty roar. Kion asks if he's ready, and Badili confirms that he is. On the way back to the forest, the Guard double check Badili and what his actions will be. When Kion is happy with the answers, he sends the leopard away, before crouching in a bush with the rest of the Guard to watch for themselves.

At first, Badili shows his newfound confidence well. But soon, he starts to break and becomes daunted. Fuli is about to step in until Kion calls her back. He explains that he has faith in Badili, and further states that he can do this alone. Sure enough, Badili regains his confidence, and ultimately drives Mapigano out of his territory. Kion and the Guard congratulate Badili, and although he thanks them for believing in him, Kion informs Badili that he believed in himself. With the situation over, Kion and the Guard return to the Pride Lands.

Back at Hakuna Matata Falls, Kion, Fuli, Beshte and Ono relax together. Suddenly, Laini rushes over, expressing her concern over someone in her tree. They return to the tree to find Bunga cuddling the galagos. He leaps down to give Laini a cuddle, and the rest of the Guard laugh as the poor galago wonders if the leopard would be a better choice than Bunga.

Janja's New Crew
The Lion Guard is traipsing through some mud. Kion notes that after the previous night's storm, he's glad the mud is their only issue. Suddenly, Janja the hyenas slides down a muddy slope, landing right in front of the Guard and asking what they're doing in the Outlands. Kion tells him that they both know they're in the Pride Lands and that Janja doesn't belong. Cheezi and Chungu arrive and reveal Janja's plan, and Kion reacts by using the Roar of the Elders to force the hyenas out of the Pride Lands.

As they continue on their way, Fuli wonders why they are doing this. Kion reminds her that need to ensure that the Pride Lands' trails are safe. Spotting a cliff about to collapse, he calls a warning to his friends and makes it out of harm's way. As the mudslide now blocks a trail, Kion realizes that the Guard will need to clear it. He assigns tasks to the other members of the Guard, deeming that Fuli and Beshte are to stay with him and help rid the trail of the debris. Later, Beshte pushes the last tree off of the trail, and Kion leaps over it. He compliments the hippo's work and decides that the trail is safe.

Ono then flies over, reporting two animals stuck in a mudslide when Kion asks what's up. The Guard races to the aid of the animals, and Kion orders Beshte to block their path. He tells Bunga to grab the smaller one while he and Fuli rescue the larger of the two. Once the muddy animals are safe, Kion spits and notes that they had a close call and asks if they're all right. The creatures shake off the mud, revealing themselves as Cheezi and Chungu, to Kion's surprise. He realizes that if they're around, Janja must be somewhere nearby, but it turns out that Janja kicked Cheezi and Chungu out of his crew. Kion still feels that they shouldn't stay, but eventually consents, as they could help out the Circle of Life- and it's the nice thing to do. He tells the two hyenas that they may stay, and adds for them not to make the Guard regret it before heading back to their patrol. On the way, Kion orders Ono to keep an eye on them.

Ono is quick to report an antelope stampede. Kion tells Ono to lead the way, and they soon manage to bring the herd to a halt, with Kion being able to conclude that it was caused by hyenas due to the scent they left behind. He blames the Guard for the stampede, feeling that Chungu and Cheezi started it. However, they find the duo peacefully asleep. Kion sharply awakens them and demands to know why they started a stampede. As Cheezi and Chungu try and explain, everyone hears Janja's voice. Kion leads the way, and they find Janja stuck on a ledge below them. Kion asks Janja what his plan is, but Janja informs him that it was the new hyenas. Kion shouts Ono's name, and the egret flies up and spots the pair chasing after a herd of oryxes.

The Guard arrives on the scene just in time. Kion shoves Tano away from the oryxes. The two guess that Kion is going to use his Roar, and he remarks that they are smart as he uses his gift to blast the hyenas away. He then returns to Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu, planning to get them off of the ledge and back to the Outlands, only to find that the ledge has collapsed. He calls their names and discovers that they are unharmed, then tells them to go home.

The Day of the Crocodiles
After the Pride Lands are flooded, Kion asks Ono what is going on. Ono explains that due to a blocked waterfall, the river is overflowing and the crocodiles are free to go where they please. Kion remarks that the animals of the Pride Lands are in danger, and Beshte points out that Zuri is trapped with crocodiles around her. Kion adds that it is lucky that the crocodiles cannot reach Zuri, as she is on a rock. Kion decides to talk to Makuu, calling him the "head of the gang". He shouts at Makuu to get his attention and informs him that is is breaking the rules by leaving the territory of the crocodiles. However, Makuu responds that the territory of the crocodiles is wherever the water is. Bunga tells Kion to use the Roar, but Kion, glancing at Zuri, explains that it could blow up the rock. Fuli and Beshte each present an idea to Kion, leaving him to choose.

When Kion chooses Fuli's idea, he declares that the most important thing is Zuri's safety. He points out that if she jumps on some branches near the rock she is on, the Lion Guard could rescue her. However, Fuli observes that the branches are too high, so Kion decides to climb the branches himself. He scales the branches, and standing on one next to Zuri, tells her to jump. She comments that she thought she would be stuck on the rock forever, and he responds that perhaps she is overreacting. After they is safely down, he roars at the crocodiles. Bunga bets that Zuri will want to thank Kion, but he is not sure, replying that Zuri and Kiara treat him like a toddler. However, Zuri does thank him, and he greets her. But when she starts rubbing against him, he is disgusted, announcing that he liked it better when he was not noticed.

When Kion chooses Beshte's idea, he announces that they are to get rid of the crocodiles and save Zuri. Ono asks where he is going, and Kion replies that he is going to the waterfall, as he already knows what to do. They are blocked by floodwater, strewn with rubble. Kion notes that if the falls were unblocked, the river would return to normal. He is able to jump from stone to stone and get across. When he reaches the other side, he comments that the rocks cannot move past a log. He pushes the log away, and as the water rushes forward, he lands on a log with an, "Oof!" However, Beshtre arrives, and he jumps onto his friend's back. Zuri is saved because the crocodiles were washed away. Bunga announces that she will want to thank him, but Kion replies that Bunga does not know Zuri. After Zuri scolds him for getting her fur muddy, Kion remarks that Zuri will never change, even if he is a hero.

Abilities

 * Roar of the Elders

Family

 * Simba: Father
 * Nala: Mother
 * Kiara: Sister
 * Mufasa: Paternal Grandfather
 * Nala's Father: Maternal Grandfather
 * Scar: Great-Uncle

Friends

 * Fuli
 * Bunga
 * Ono
 * Beshte
 * Jasiri
 * Badili

Trivia

 * Kion's original marking was a lion paw in a shade of brown.
 * Kion's catchprase, Hevi kabisa, means "totally intense" in Swahili.
 * It is currently unknown what the age gap between Kion and Kiara is.