The Lion King/Guard : Survive from Death

Part 7 - Peril at the Tree of Life: A Battle for Harmony

Vitani and the Lion Guard completed their morning patrol around the Pridelands and began making their way back to their lair for some much-needed rest. "Thanks to the great king, the Pridelands are safe once again," Vitani remarked, her voice filled with pride.

Shabaha, one of Vitani's loyal lioness friends, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, we owe our gratitude to King Simba for ensuring our safety."

Kasi, another lioness member of the Lion Guard, voiced her concern. "But I can't help worrying about the border of the Outlands. It has been unusually quiet lately."

Imara, the fourth lioness in the group, reassured them. "Let's not dwell on that. We should be grateful that the Pridelands are secure."

Meanwhile, high above the savannah, Zazu soared through the sky, diligently checking on the various herds of animals to ensure their well-being. Satisfied with what he discovered, he made his way back to Pride Rock to deliver the news.

Inside Pride Rock, Rafiki attentively tended to the wounds of Simba, Kion, and Kovu, who had sustained injuries during the recent battle. Kion winced in pain as Rafiki gently bound a healing leaf to his chest. "Thank you, Rafiki. I hope these wounds heal quickly," Kion said appreciatively.

Rafiki patted Kion's shoulder affectionately. "Be patient, my young prince. Healing takes time. Rest and allow nature to do its work."

After bidding farewell to Rafiki, Zazu landed before Simba and bowed respectfully. "Good morning, Your Majesty. I bring tidings of good news," Zazu announced.

Simba nodded, signaling Zazu to continue.

"The herds are safe and accounted for, and the Outlands' border has been surprisingly calm," Zazu reported, his voice filled with a hint of curiosity.

Furrowing his brow, Simba pondered aloud, "That's peculiar. There are usually hyenas guarding the border. I wonder what could be causing the absence."

Zazu took his leave, soaring out of the den to resume his duties.

However, in the distant lands of the Tree of Life, a different and more sinister scene was unfolding. Cheka and his nefarious army had launched an attack on the Day Pride and the Night Pride, threatening the peaceful existence of the Tree of Life.

Surak, the leader of the Day Pride, confronted Cheka with a stern and commanding voice. "What brings you to the Tree of Life, intruder?"

Cheka, seemingly unfazed, gazed at the majestic tree and inquired calmly, "Is this the Tree of Life?"

Surak's voice brimmed with suspicion as he responded, "Yes, it is. State your purpose here immediately!"

A sly grin spread across Cheka's face as he replied, "I merely seek to revel in the magnificence of the Tree of Life... and claim it for myself. Attack!"

With that command, Cheka's army lunged forward, engaging in a fierce battle with the defenders of the Tree of Life, the Day Pride, and the Night Pride.

Back in the Pridelands, Kion, Rani, and Kovu arrived at Pride Rock, their paws still echoing the urgency of their journey. Just as they were about to enter the den, Ullu, a wise and vigilant owl, appeared before them with an expression of deep concern.

"King Kion, Queen Rani!" Ullu exclaimed, her voice filled with urgency.

Rani's eyes widened in alarm. "What's the matter, Ullu? You seem troubled."

Ullu gasped for breath, her wings slightly fluttering as she relayed the distressing news. "There... *panting*... there's an enormous horde of hyenas attacking the Tree of Life!"

"Dad, I must return to the Tree of Life," Kion asserted, determination gleaming in his eyes, despite the wounds he still bore.

Simba's voice filled with both worry and understanding. "Your wounds have yet to heal, Kion. Why do you need to go?"

Rani interjected, her voice unwavering. "Cheka and his army are attacking the Tree of Life, Simba. It appears my instincts were correct about their intentions."

Nala, unable to contain her emotions, rushed to Kion, her voice choked with tears. "Please, Kion, be cautious. I cannot bear the thought of losing you." She embraced her son tightly, unwilling to let go.

Kion hugged his mother, his voice filled with love and reassurance. "Don't worry, Mom. We'll face this threat together, and we'll return safely."

After bidding a heartfelt farewell to their loved ones, Kion, Rani, and Ullu prepared to embark on their perilous journey back to the Tree of Life, where their presence was urgently needed to confront Cheka and protect the harmony of the Circle of Life.