Day One of the Journey


The golden hues of dawn painted the horizon as the royal procession began its journey to Birdstain. Simba led the group, walking with Nala by his side. Kiara and Kovu followed closely behind, their heads held high, while Kion and the Lion Guard flanked the group for protection. The air was crisp, filled with the songs of early birds as they set off into the savanna.
“This feels like the start of something grand,” Kiara said, glancing back at Kovu. “It’s not every day we attend a coronation in another kingdom.”
Kovu smiled, his amber eyes shining with excitement. “It’s more than that—it’s a chance to strengthen alliances, meet new faces, and see how other kingdoms live.”
Kion, walking ahead with the Lion Guard, nodded toward his sister. “And let’s not forget that it’s a long journey. We’ll need to stay vigilant and look out for each other along the way.”
The Pride Lands’ grassy plains gradually gave way to drier terrain. The once lush greenery faded into a more arid, dusty expanse—the familiar landscape of the Outlands. The group tread carefully, the change in terrain serving as a reminder of the harsh conditions beyond their borders.
As they approached a small ridge, a familiar scent reached Kion’s nose. He paused, his ears perking up as he scanned the horizon. Moments later, two familiar figures emerged from the shadows: Jasiri, the friendly hyena leader, and Janja, who had long since reformed from his mischievous ways.
“Kion!” Jasiri called out, her voice cheerful as she bounded toward the group, followed closely by Janja and several members of their clan. “It’s good to see you again!”
“Jasiri!” Kion exclaimed, his face breaking into a smile as he moved to greet her. “What brings you all the way out here?”
Jasiri grinned, her tail swishing with excitement. “We’re heading to Birdstain, just like you. We got our invitation from that messenger falcon a few days ago. Thought we’d catch up with you along the way!”
Janja stepped forward, offering a sheepish grin. “Yeah, figured it’s safer to travel together. Plus, who can say no to a fancy royal event, huh?”
Simba approached, his expression softening at the sight of Jasiri and her clan. “It’s good to see you, Jasiri. Your presence will be a welcome addition to the journey.”
Jasiri dipped her head respectfully. “Thanks, Simba. It’s an honor to be included in such an important event. Zazu’s invitation mentioned something about strengthening bonds between kingdoms, and we’re all for that.”
Nala stepped closer, her warm smile directed at the hyenas. “It’s been a long time since our kingdoms have shared a journey like this. It’ll be good to have your company.”
Janja’s grin widened, his confidence growing under Nala’s kind gaze. “Don’t worry, Queen Nala, we’ll pull our weight. No trouble from us this time.”
Kiara chuckled softly. “We’re glad to have you along, Jasiri. And you too, Janja.”
The group paused briefly, allowing the hyenas to integrate into the procession. As they continued their trek, the once-arid plains began to show signs of life—a few scattered shrubs and the occasional acacia tree provided small patches of shade. The Outlands were not entirely barren, and the journey’s rhythm grew more relaxed as the two groups shared stories.
“So,” Jasiri said, walking beside Kion as the midday sun climbed higher. “What’s Birdstain like? I’ve heard it’s a kingdom built in the trees. That’s gotta be amazing to see.”
Kion nodded, his expression thoughtful. “It is. I’ve only been there once, but it’s unlike anything else. Their palace is set in the tallest tree, and the way they navigate the branches—it’s like they’re flying even when they’re walking.”
Janja let out a low whistle. “A palace in the trees? That’s something. Bet the view’s worth the climb.”
Simba, overhearing the conversation, added, “It’s not just the view. The birds of Birdstain have a way of seeing the world from above—both literally and figuratively. Their perspective on leadership is inspiring. King Zazu has always been a wise ally.”
The group pressed on, the heat of the day settling over them as they traveled. As the sun began its slow descent, painting the sky with streaks of orange and gold, they reached a small watering hole. Simba signaled for a break, and the group eagerly gathered to rest and drink.
Kiara approached Jasiri, her curiosity piqued. “So, how has your clan been adjusting? Things have been peaceful in the Pride Lands, but I know the Outlands can still be a challenge.”
Jasiri nodded, her expression turning serious. “It’s been a lot of work, but we’re making progress. The Outlands are tough, but we’ve managed to create some stability. That’s why this trip to Birdstain is so important—to show that even the Outlands can be part of something greater.”
Janja chimed in, his usual bravado tinged with sincerity. “Yeah, it’s not easy, but Jasiri’s a great leader. She’s taught us a lot about trust and working together. This journey feels like the next step for us.”
Simba, overhearing the conversation, smiled. “Your presence here speaks volumes about the progress you’ve made. The Outlands are in good hands under your leadership, Jasiri. And Janja, your willingness to embrace change is commendable.”
Janja rubbed the back of his neck, a rare moment of humility crossing his face. “Thanks, Simba. That means a lot.”
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the land in twilight, the group settled down for the night. They would rise again at dawn, ready to continue their journey toward Birdstain. For now, the Pride Landers and the hyenas shared stories and laughter around a small fire, the bonds between their kingdoms growing stronger with each passing moment.
As the morning sun peeked over the horizon, the group set out once more, their steps crunching against the dusty terrain of the Outlands. The air was cooler in the early hours, and the distant calls of birds echoed faintly across the plains. The Pride Landers walked side by side with Jasiri’s clan, their camaraderie deepening with every shared moment of their journey.
Kion walked near the front, his sharp eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of trouble. Beside him, Jasiri kept pace effortlessly, her cheerful demeanor a welcome contrast to the arid landscape.
“You know,” Jasiri began, breaking the silence, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen the Outlands so calm. It’s almost… peaceful.”
Kion chuckled, glancing at her. “Maybe that’s because you’re here to keep things in order. You’ve brought a sense of stability that wasn’t here before.”
Jasiri nudged him playfully. “Flattery will get you everywhere, Kion.”
Behind them, Janja ambled along with Bunga, the two exchanging animated banter.
“So, Janja,” Bunga said, tilting his head, “do you think the food at this Birdstain place will be worth the trip?”
Janja smirked, his sharp teeth glinting in the sunlight. “You know, honey badger, that’s the first thing you’ve said that makes sense. I’m betting they’ve got something fancy up in those trees. Maybe a feast fit for a king.”
Bunga puffed out his chest. “Or a feast fit for a Lion Guard hero, like me!”
“Keep dreaming, Bunga,” Fuli called from ahead, her pace steady and graceful. “I doubt they’re preparing anything special just for you.”
“Oh, come on, Fuli,” Bunga replied, jogging to catch up to her. “You know they’ll have something amazing. Zazu’s always so proper; he wouldn’t let us go hungry.”
Janja laughed, his raspy voice echoing. “Well, if they don’t, I’m blaming you, Bunga.”
Simba and Nala, walking with Kiara and Kovu near the center of the group, exchanged quiet words as they observed the interactions around them. Nala’s eyes softened as she watched Kion and Jasiri share a laugh.
“They’ve grown so much,” Nala said, her voice tinged with pride. “It feels like just yesterday they were cubs, finding their place in the Circle of Life.”
Simba nodded, his gaze distant for a moment. “They’ve all found their paths, in their own ways. Kion’s leadership has strengthened the Lion Guard, and Kiara’s proven herself to be a compassionate queen-in-training. Seeing them like this… it’s a reminder of what we’ve been working toward all these years.”
Ahead, Kiara slowed her pace to walk alongside Kovu. She tilted her head toward him, her curiosity evident. “What do you think Birdstain will be like, Kovu? I’ve heard so many stories about it, but I can’t quite picture a kingdom built in the trees.”
Kovu’s brow furrowed thoughtfully. “It sounds… different. But in a good way. I imagine it’s a place where the sky feels closer, where everything is connected through the branches. It must be incredible to live like that.”
Kiara smiled. “I think you’re right. And it’ll be exciting to meet their new leaders. Zazu’s children must be remarkable to follow in his footsteps.”
“They’d have to be,” Kovu agreed. “Zazu’s dedication to his role as majordomo has always been impressive. If his children are anything like him, Birdstain is in good hands.”
As the group continued their journey, the terrain began to shift subtly. Small clusters of rocks and sparse vegetation appeared, breaking up the monotony of the dry plains. Jasiri gestured toward a distant rise, where a faint shimmer of water glinted in the sunlight.
“That’s the edge of one of our watering holes,” she explained. “We’ve worked hard to maintain it, even during the dry seasons. It’s one of the few reliable sources of water around here.”
Simba looked impressed. “You’ve done well, Jasiri. Protecting resources like that is no small task.”
Jasiri shrugged, her modesty genuine. “It’s a group effort. My clan knows how important it is to keep the balance. We’ve had our challenges, but we’re learning.”
Beshte, walking nearby, chimed in with his warm voice. “It’s inspiring to see how much you’ve accomplished, Jasiri. Keeping everyone working together isn’t easy, but you’ve made it happen.”
Jasiri beamed at the compliment. “Thanks, Beshte. That means a lot coming from you.”
As they crested a gentle slope, the group paused to take in the view. Below them, the Outlands stretched out in all directions, the vastness of the land reminding them of the journey still ahead. In the distance, a faint outline of a greener horizon hinted at their destination.
“We’re making good progress,” Kion noted, his tail flicking with determination. “If we keep this pace, we’ll reach the Birdstain border by tomorrow.”
“Good,” Fuli said, her sharp eyes scanning the horizon. “I’m ready to see this place for myself.”
Bunga grinned, his excitement palpable. “And ready to eat, right? Come on, Fuli, you’ve got to admit you’re curious about the food!”
Fuli rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress a small smile. “Fine, Bunga. Maybe a little.”
The group shared a laugh, their spirits lifted by the lighthearted moment. As they began their descent, Simba turned to Jasiri.
“Jasiri, when we reach Birdstain, I’d like for you and your clan to join us in the royal procession,” Simba said. “You’ve earned your place among the kingdoms, and your presence will send a strong message.”
Jasiri’s eyes widened with surprise and gratitude. “Simba… that’s an honor. Thank you. We’d be proud to stand with you.”
Janja, overhearing, scratched the back of his neck. “Guess that means I’ve got to behave, huh?”
Kion smirked. “Don’t worry, Janja. You’re doing fine so far.”
The sun climbed higher as the group continued their journey.
As the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, the group continued to trek through the Outlands. The journey had been long, but the steady pace kept their spirits high. Kion glanced up at the horizon, his keen eyes scanning the vast landscape. The landscape had grown drier, with the scent of dust lingering in the air. The sun's rays softened as twilight descended, casting long shadows over the plains.
Kion’s mind briefly wandered to the territory they were approaching—the Backlands. His thoughts shifted to Makucha, his once cold and reserved mate, now an accepted figure in the Pridelands, living in the Tree of Life and occasionally spending time with Kion and his family.
Kion reflected on the years that had passed since he had first encountered Makucha, when the leopard had been a rival, a threat to his kingdom. But time had changed their relationship. Despite Makucha’s cold demeanor, the bond they shared had only deepened. It wasn’t an easy connection—there had been moments of tension and distance—but it was real. Kion had come to understand Makucha in ways no one else had, seeing beyond his aloof exterior.
Their relationship had not been conventional. While Kion had mates in many corners of the kingdom—like Chuluun, Makucha’s wife and also Kion’s mate, or Yun-Mibu and Badili, both of whom were cherished members of his heart—it was with Makucha that he had developed a unique, complicated bond. The lion often thought of the days when Makucha had been a far-off figure, an outsider in his world. But now, he stood as an important part of Kion’s life, even if their interactions were brief at times. The rest of the Pride, including Simba, had accepted Makucha and his other mates—Chuluun, Yun-Mibu, and Badili—and Simba had made it clear that Kion’s relationships, despite their complexities, were his own to navigate.
But tonight, as the group walked steadily through the Outlands, the presence of Makucha, Chuluun, and the rest of Kion’s partners seemed far away. Kion was aware that their destination lay ahead, and though his thoughts momentarily lingered on his complex relationships, he focused on the task at hand. Their journey was far from over, and they needed rest.
“Alright, everyone,” Kion called to the group, breaking the silence of the journey. “We’re approaching the Backlands, but we’re not quite there yet. It’s best to rest here for the night.”
The group murmured in agreement, their tired bodies grateful for the reprieve. They had been walking since dawn, and the thought of a night’s rest was more than welcome.
Simba, Nala, Kiara, Kovu, and the rest of the Pride Landers paused, looking to Kion for guidance.
“Good call, Kion,” Simba said, his voice steady. “We don’t want to take any chances in Makucha’s territory, even if he’s not close by. A good night’s rest will make tomorrow’s leg of the journey easier.”
Nala nodded. “And it gives us time to prepare for whatever lies ahead. The Backlands can be unpredictable.”
Jasiri, ever the pragmatist, adjusted her stance and stretched her legs. “We’ll be fine. The Outlands might be dry and harsh, but it’s nothing we haven’t handled before.”
“I agree,” Kovu added, looking around as the rest of the group settled. “We should make camp here for the night.”
With their decision made, the group began to spread out, finding their spots for the evening. Kion stood at the edge of their makeshift camp, eyes scanning the sky as darkness began to settle. The air cooled rapidly, and the distant howls of wild animals filled the space. Though there were no immediate signs of danger, Kion knew that the night was when things could change. The Outlands were never fully safe, and the Backlands even less so.
Fuli, who had been moving silently through the area, came over to Kion with a glint in her eye. “I think it’s time for a hunt, don’t you?”
Kion’s gaze shifted to the cheetah, who stood with her usual sharp focus. “Sounds like a good idea, Fuli. We’ll need to restock for the journey ahead.”
Azaad, the young gazelle who had joined the Pride’s ranks recently, perked up at the suggestion. “I’ll join you,” he said, his voice eager. “I’ve been practicing my speed. I can help track.”
“I’ll join too,” Fuli replied with a smile. “We’ll make a good team.”
Kion looked at them both, impressed. “Alright. Bring back something good. We’ve got a long road ahead.”
The two of them darted off into the night, swift and silent, blending with the darkness of the Outlands as they set off to hunt.
Meanwhile, the rest of the group began settling in. Kiara and Kovu shared quiet words, while Simba and Nala stood together, observing the horizon. Kion remained at the edge of the camp, contemplating the journey they had undertaken and the challenges ahead. As the sound of Fuli and Azaad’s footsteps faded, the lion’s thoughts turned again to Makucha.
Though their relationship had evolved into something meaningful, it had not been without its struggles. There were still times when Makucha withdrew, hiding behind his walls of coldness, but Kion had come to understand this behavior over time. He respected it, knowing that Makucha’s heart was not as open as Kion’s own. They shared moments of intimacy, brief but intense, where the walls between them came down.
Kion smiled to himself, recalling their last encounter. He had seen a different side of the leopard then—vulnerable, almost tender—but he knew that Makucha would never speak of it. He had always been reserved about their relationship, but Kion accepted that. The bond they shared didn’t need to be defined by words or declarations. It was built in the quiet moments, the unspoken understanding that passed between them.
Chuluun, Makucha’s wife, had never once questioned Kion’s relationship with Makucha or with any of his other partners. The lion had found in her a kindness and acceptance that helped smooth over the complexities of his life. As for Yun-Mibu and Badili, they had their own unique ways of connecting with him. Each relationship was different, each mate offering Kion something special—something he had come to cherish in ways words couldn’t fully explain.
But for tonight, the focus was on the journey, on getting through the Outlands and into the Backlands. Kion knew that once they entered Makucha’s territory, things would change. But for now, they were safe. They had to trust that the peace of this night would carry them through.
Fuli and Azaad returned to the camp shortly before dawn, each with their catch in tow. Fuli’s movements were swift and graceful, a stark contrast to the slow, deliberate steps of Azaad, who carried a large gazelle in his mouth.
“We got a good haul,” Fuli said, dropping her catch to the ground. “Azaad helped track down a few of the more elusive ones.”
Azaad smiled sheepishly. “I did my best.”
Kion gave them both a proud nod. “You did great. That’ll make the journey tomorrow a lot easier.”
As the rest of the group gathered around the food, Kion felt a sense of accomplishment. They had made it through the Outlands and were now closer than ever to Birdstain, to the coronation, and to whatever awaited them in the future. He was grateful for the bonds they had forged on this journey—the friendships, the alliances, and the quiet understanding that had come from their shared experiences.
But as they ate and shared stories of past hunts and memories, Kion knew that tomorrow would bring new challenges. The Backlands were a place he had not ventured into lightly, and though Makucha’s territory was peaceful for now, nothing in the Outlands could ever truly be trusted.
With the stars overhead and the sounds of the night around them, Kion closed his eyes for a moment, letting the calm of the evening wash over him. He was grateful for this time with his family, his friends, and his mates, even if their relationships were complicated. They had all chosen this journey together, and that was what mattered.
Tomorrow, the journey will continue. But for tonight, they rested, united in their purpose and in the bonds they had forged.
Resting Under the Stars
As the night deepened, the group settled around the campfire, the crackling of the fire filling the silence that had settled over the Outlands. The air was cool, the stars above scattered across the sky like scattered diamonds. It was a peaceful night, one that seemed to offer respite after the long day’s journey. The camp was quiet except for the occasional rustle of the wind in the distant brush, the fire’s gentle crackle, and the murmurs of the Pride Landers and their companions as they relaxed together.
Kion sat at the edge of the group, his gaze focused on the dancing flames. The flickering shadows of the fire played across his face, highlighting the tiredness in his eyes, but also the quiet determination that had guided him throughout this journey. He had been the one to call for the rest, to suggest they pause before entering the Backlands, but even as he sat there, his thoughts were far from the immediate concerns of the journey.
Around him, the other members of the group were laughing, talking, and sharing stories of past adventures. Simba and Nala sat close together, exchanging quiet words as their daughter Kiara, and son Kovu, joined in the conversation with some of the others. Jasiri and Janja, who had been a part of the group since they first set out, stood together at the edge of the camp, keeping a lookout for anything unusual in the distance. Despite their less conventional backgrounds, the alliance between the Pride Landers and the hyenas felt comfortable now. Kion appreciated how far they had come, how unity had grown from distrust.
Fuli, ever the sharp-eyed and speedy one, leaned against a tree nearby, her tail flicking lazily behind her as she exchanged playful banter with Azaad, who had returned from the hunt with her. The young gazelle had proven himself a capable and willing ally during the journey, and Fuli had taken a liking to him, her typically cool demeanor softened by his easy smile and enthusiasm.
Kion glanced at the fire, and his thoughts once again drifted to Makucha, as they often did during moments of stillness. His mate’s presence, though not physically here, felt constant. He thought back to their encounters in the Tree of Life, their brief but intense moments together, and the peace that Makucha had found within the Pridelands, despite his earlier years as a distant and cold figure. Kion smiled softly to himself. There was something comforting about knowing Makucha was no longer just a shadow in his past but a presence in his present life—a part of his family, even if it was a family that defied conventions.
Simba’s deep voice broke Kion’s reverie. “It’s strange, isn’t it? How much has changed since our first days in the Pride Lands.”
Kion looked over at his father. Simba’s gaze was distant, reflecting on years of leadership and the changes they had seen in the kingdom.
“I remember when things were simpler,” Simba continued. “When everything seemed so clear—when we knew exactly what our paths were supposed to be. But now...” His voice trailed off, and for a moment, Kion could see the weight of the years in his father’s eyes.
Kion nodded. “I know what you mean, Dad. It hasn’t been easy, but... it feels right, doesn’t it? The way we’ve come together. The alliances. The family we’ve built.”
Simba chuckled softly. “Right or not, sometimes it feels like one big, complicated mess.” He paused, as if searching for the right words. “But I think that’s the beauty of it, Kion. It’s the journey. It’s about finding a way through the chaos and still coming out stronger on the other side.”
Kiara, overhearing the conversation, smiled. “Well, no one said being a leader would be easy.”
Nala, her voice soft and wise, added, “It never is, sweetheart. But the important thing is that you have each other.”
Kovu, who had been quiet for a while, spoke up then, his voice filled with thoughtfulness. “I think we’ve all learned that it’s the connections we make that truly matter. Not just bloodlines, but the bonds that form through shared experience, trust, and understanding.”
There was a comfortable silence that settled between them, and Kion couldn’t help but reflect on those words. He thought about all the relationships they had forged—how the Pride Lands had transformed, not just physically but emotionally. His own relationships, complex as they were, had shaped who he was today. And tonight, as the fire crackled and the stars shone overhead, he felt a profound sense of gratitude for everyone who had become part of his journey.
The hyenas—Jasiri and Janja—had come to join the group around the fire. They were an unexpected part of this new family, but in some ways, that made them even more valuable. Jasiri sat down beside Kion, offering him a knowing smile.
“Quite the journey we’ve got ahead of us, huh?” she remarked. “Who would’ve thought we’d be invited to a royal coronation like this?”
Kion laughed softly. “Yeah, not the first thing I expected when we started this.”
Janja, always the cynic, added with a smirk, “Just don’t get too cozy, Kion. I’m still figuring out this whole ‘family’ thing.”
“Yeah, me too,” Kion replied, his eyes gleaming with humor. “But we’re in this together. And that’s what matters.”
As the night continued, the sounds of the Outlands—chirps of distant creatures, rustling leaves, and the gentle flow of wind—mingled with the laughter and conversations around the fire. The group shared stories of their past adventures, of battles fought, alliances made, and moments of triumph and loss. Each tale added a layer to the bond they had formed during their time together.
“I remember the time we first crossed into the Outlands,” Kiara said, her voice filled with nostalgia. “It felt like we were entering another world, so foreign and dangerous.”
“It’s not all that different from how it is now,” Kovu responded. “The Outlands are still unpredictable, but we’ve learned to face them head-on.”
Fuli laughed lightly. “And we’ve got a good team to back us up.”
“There’s still a lot ahead of us,” Azaad said quietly, looking at the horizon where the first glimmer of dawn was beginning to edge the sky. “But we’re making it through.”
Kion took a deep breath and looked up at the stars, feeling the peace of the moment. It was as if the vast, endless sky above them was a reminder of how much there was to see, to explore, to learn. And it was clear now that this journey was not just about the coronation ahead, but about everything they had built and would continue to build together.
The fire flickered, casting its soft glow across their faces. Kion felt a deep sense of belonging, surrounded by those who had become not just his allies, but his family. He knew the road ahead would be challenging, but for tonight, at least, they were safe, they were together, and that was enough.
As the night deepened, the group grew quieter, the conversations fading into peaceful murmurs. Kion allowed himself to relax, leaning back against a rock as he let the sounds of the night and the warmth of the fire lull him into a state of calm. It was a rare moment of peace before they would face the trials of the next day. And for tonight, Kion was content.