Legends of the Lion Guard: Battle for the Pride Lands: Chapter 9

Chapter 9 is the ninth chapter of Legends of the Lion Guard: Battle for the Pride Lands.
==Synopsis==
A deadly attack from Scar's forces leaves the Lion Guard - and their allies - deeply shaken.
==Transcript==
On a calm day in the Pride Lands, the Lion Guard had gathered the Pride Landers at Pride Rock.
“Everyone, I'm grateful that you've all agreed to come to Pride Rock today. There's some news that must be shared.” Kion said.
The animals exchanged confused glances.
“Does this have anything to do with the meeting between the rulers?” Bupu asked. 
Kion hesitated, shifting his paws awkwardly. He felt Kiara come up to stand beside him, wrapping her tail around his shoulders.
“Yes, it does. As you all know, the Outlanders have been staging attacks frequently. My Lion Guard has called upon recruits from other kingdoms to help defeat them.” Kion said nervously.
Kion felt Kiara's tail tighten around his shoulders.
“The Outlanders appear to have a motivation behind these attacks…and don't intend to give up without a fight.” Kion said, stammering slightly.
Simba and Rafiki came up to stand beside him.
“Recently, Kion and Rafiki found a mark in the ground, close to Mapango Cliffs. Rafiki has consulted the Spirits of the Past, and found the meaning behind it." Simba said.
Rafiki stepped forward, and cleared his throat.
“The mark is in a shape of a scarred eye. The Spirits of the Past have informed me that it means horrifying evil has made its way to the Pride Lands." Rafiki said.
“What is this evil?” Ma Tembo asked.
Simba moved closer to Kion, brushing his tail along Kion's spine.
“Tell them, son.” Simba said gently.
Kion hesitated, and cleared his throat.
“Scar has returned, as a spirit…He intends to destroy the Pride Lands, and disrupt the Circle of Life.” Kion said slowly.
The gathered animals gasped, exchanging shocked glances.
“What do we do?” Bupu asked.
“Is there a way to defeat Scar, and restore peace?” Makuu asked.
“We believe there is, we just need to discover it.” Kion said.
“The kingdoms have all agreed to join forces against Scar, and prepare for battle. We must all train.” Simba said.
“Each member of the Lion Guard will take a group of animals to Urembo River, Ndefu Grove, and Maji Baridi Falls to begin training. I will train a fifth team in Chakula Plains. We will all meet there later.” Kion said. 
Suddenly, Makuu stepped out from the crowd of animals.
“I am pleased to offer my assistance in the training, Kion.” Makuu said.  
“Thank you, Makuu.” Kion said.
Meanwhile, in Leopon Plains, Ajani and Mhina had assembled the animals in Msafiri Forest.
“Something's happened in the Pride Lands that you all should be aware of, as it affects us just as much.” Ajani said.
“Rafiki discovered a marking in the earth near Mapango Cliffs. It's a scarred eye. He's discussed with the Spirits of the Past to learn what it means.” Mhina said.
He and Ajani exchanged a glance.
“Scar has returned. He plans to destroy the Pride Lands, and damage the Circle of Life.” Ajani said.
“What will be done, your majesty?” Amali asked.
“The kingdoms will all prepare for battle. We will fight beside the Pride Landers, and defeat Scar.” Ajani said.
Mhina glanced behind him at Tatu, Kopa, and Kicheko. 
“Can you three take teams to Bwawa Marsh, Jangwa Desert, and Dragon Island? I'll train a team here.” Mhina said.
Tatu nodded.
“Sure, Mhina.” Tatu said.
She, Kopa, and Kicheko began to assemble teams of animals.
Mhina glanced at Ajani.
“Dad, do you think the Guard will be all right without me helping them today?” Mhina asked.
Ajani nodded. 
“Don't worry, son. Kion will be fine.” Ajani said. 
“I hope you're right.” Mhina said.
----
Meanwhile, at the Tree of Life, the animals had gathered outside the tree.
“Thank you all for coming. The reason I've asked you all to gather today is because something's happened in the Pride Lands that you all should be aware of, as it affects us just as much.” Jivin said.
Beside him, Maya cleared her throat.
“Rafiki has discovered a very mysterious mark. He's been talking with the Spirits of the Past, and they've informed him of the meaning behind it.” Maya said.
“What does the mark mean, Mom?” Baliyo asked.
“It is terrible news, son. Scar has been brought back. He plans to destroy the Pride Lands and corrupt the Circle of Life if nothing is done to stop him.” Jivin said.
The animals gasped, exchanging shocked glances.
“The kingdoms will all prepare for battle. We will fight beside the Pride Landers, and defeat Scar.” Jivin said.
Rani and Baliyo exchanged a glance.
“Can you take a team to train in Marsh Forest?” Rani asked.
Baliyo nodded.
“Danyal can take another team to Bamboo Woods. I'll train a team in Desert Plains.” Rani said.
“You got it, sis.” Baliyo said.
Meanwhile, in the Back Lands, Chifu had gathered the animals in Mirihi Forest.
“Everyone! There is urgent news that must be shared with you.” Chifu said.
He glanced up as Bukali, his Majordomo flew up to him. 
“Bukali, would you like to share what you've discovered with the Pride Lands Lion Guard?” Chifu asked.
She nodded.
“After a recent battle with the Outlanders, Kion and Rafiki noticed a marking in the earth at Mapango Cliffs.”
The gathered animals exchanged confused glances.
“What do you mean, Bukali? What sort of mark?” Okereke said skeptically.
“Scar has returned as a spirit. King Simba and Kion believe he wants to destroy the Pride Lands and the surrounding kingdoms," Bukali replied.
“Thank you, Bukali. Today, we will train for battle, to help the Pride Landers combat this evil. They will not face it alone.” Chifu said.
Mshale stepped forward.
“My Lion Guard will be training all of you today, in order to be ready to help defeat the Outlanders.” Mshale said.
He glanced at Soyinka and Ishi.
“You two will take a team to the Iroko Tree. Show them how to leap down onto enemies, but with sheathed claws.”  Mshale said.
“You got it, Mshale.” Soyinka said.
He and Ishi moved amongst the crowd of animals, assembling a team. Mshale watched as they headed towards the Iroko Tree.
Mshale glanced over at Okereke and Magoro.
“I want you two to take a team to the canyons. Show them partner fighting, with sheathed claws.” Mshale said.
Okereke scoffed.
“Why should we help that little honey badger and his friends? They should be able to handle this on their own.” Okereke said.
“Okereke, we are allies with the Pride Lands. We come to their aid when they need help.” Chifu said sternly.
“Would you really want your Lion Guard privileges to be suspended, again? If you don't help us, you're barred from patrols for two moons.” Mshale said.
Okereke scowled, as he followed Magoro amongst the crowd of animals. Mshale watched as they headed towards the canyons.
He glanced up at Bukali.
“Will you train the Back Lands birds?” Mshale asked.
She nodded.
"Of course, Mshale."
Meanwhile, in the Pride Lands, Kion, joined by Simba, had assembled a team in Chakula Plains.
He and Simba were demonstrating a battle technique to the gathered animals.
Kion partially turned while in mid-air, raking his paw softly along Simba's belly. He rolled a few times on the ground before getting up, shaking off dirt. Simba looked at him proudly.
“That was excellent, Kion. I'm very proud of you.” Simba said warmly, as he moved forward, and knelt down to nuzzle Kion's cheek.
“Thanks for helping demonstrate, Dad. You did well too.” Kion said.
Simba's eyes shone as he gazed at the assembled animals.
“I have no doubt that we will triumph over Scar, and end this war!” Simba said loudly.
Unbeknownst to them, Shupavu was spying on the training from a tree branch. Her tail twitched side-to-side as she watched. 
“So, King Simba has decided to hold a training session for the Pride Landers. Scar must hear about this!” Shupavu said.
She slithered off the tree trunk and headed towards the volcano.
When Shupavu arrived at the volcano, she slipped through the entrance to the caldera.
“Ah, Shupavu. What news do you bring?” Scar asked. 
Shupavu walked up to the edge of the caldera, facing Scar. 
“Scar, I have urgent news. Every kingdom is training and rising up to defeat you. It appears there is an alliance. I've just saw a demonstration between Kion and his father.” Shupavu said.
“So the Pride Landers are training for battle to defend themselves against me?” Scar said.
“That's right. It appears they've formed quite an alliance with the other kingdoms.” Shupavu said.
“Pride Landers working together, with inter-kingdom alliances could pose a threat to my plan.” Scar said.
“What do you want me to do, Scar?” Shupavu asked.
“Fetch me Janja's Clan, and Reth's Pride. They will stage attacks, to weaken Kion and his Lion Guard, and leave Simba's kingdom vulnerable.” Scar said.
“Of course Scar.” Shupavu said.
Meanwhile, in Chakula Plains, the Lion Guard was observing a demonstration between Makuu and Ma Tembo.
“This move is called the reverse reverse trunk whip.” Ma Tembo said.
She swung her trunk towards a fallen tree branch, sending it flying.
Kion and Makuu watched as it landed several tail-lengths away.
“Excellent. That was a very impressive move.” Makuu said.
Ma Tembo inclined her head, her eyes shining with pride.
“Well done, Ma Tembo. It's your turn now, Makuu.” Kion said.
“Mfukoni will be aiding me in this demonstration, as a sparring partner.” Makuu said.
Mfukoni stepped out from the crowd of animals, and faced Makuu. 
“Remember, no real injuries.” Kion said.
“I'd never hurt a member of my float, Kion.” Makuu said.
He whipped his tail toward Mfukoni, gently hitting her, and she rolled onto the ground. Makuu pinned her, then Mfukoni surged upward, throwing him off. The two then faced the crowd watching them again.
"Hevi kabisa! That was impressive." Kion said.
“Thank you, Kion.” Makuu said.
Meanwhile, Ono flew in the air, surveying the skies. Suddenly, his eyes widened, as he caught sight of a commotion.
"Hapana! Kion, we have an urgent situation!" Ono said frantically.
“What's wrong, Ono?” Kion asked.
“Reth's Pride is going after Makini, Nguruma, and Frerin at the watering hole. They're outnumbered, and need help!” Ono said.
“Hevi kabisa! We need to save them.” Kion said.
Suddenly, Ono's eyes widened. 
"Kion, there's another problem!" Ono said.
Fuli groaned.
“Of course there is.” Fuli muttered.
“What's this problem, Ono?” Kion asked.
“Janja's Clan is going after Masikio's Drove, at Lake Shangaza! They need help too.” Ono said.
Kion sighed.
“I wish Mhina was here.” Kion said quietly.
Fuli cleared her throat pointedly.
“What'll we do, Kion?” Fuli asked.
“You, Ono, and Bunga go help Masikio's Drove. Go as fast as you can.” Kion said.
“Did you forget who you're talking to?” Fuli asked teasingly.
Kion glanced at Beshte.
“We'll go help Nguruma, Makini, and Frerin.” Kion said.
Suddenly, Ma Tembo stepped forward, and cleared her throat. Makuu, Laini, and Bupu were beside her, Laini was perched on Bupu's head.
“This is what we trained for. Where do you need us, Kion?” Ma Tembo asked.
“Laini, you and Bupu go with Fuli, Ono, and Bunga. Ma Tembo and Makuu, you two are with me and Beshte.” Kion said.
Fuli glanced at Bupu.
“Do we have to say please?” Fuli asked.
Bupu chuckled.
“You just did.” Bupu said.
“Okay, everyone. Let's fight for what's right! Pride Landers unite!” Kion called.
He began to rush towards the watering hole, followed closely by Beshte, Ma Tembo, and Makuu.
As they approached the watering hole, Kion saw Frerin being backed towards the edge, surrounded by Alasiri and Ekene. As Kion watched, Frerin stumbled, and he went under the water's surface, making Kion gasp. Bubbles appeared on the water, and Frerin re-emerged, soaking wet. He scrambled to fight, but found himself weighed down from being underwater. 
“Beshte, hurry. Go help him.” Kion said urgently.
“Twende Kiboko!” Beshte said.
Kion watched as he rushed forward, and dove into the water, swimming quickly towards where Frerin was struggling to remain above the water. His eyes widened as Alasiri slipped into the water, and swam towards where Frerin was dragging himself onto Beshte's back.
“I shall do an underwater ambush.” Makuu said.
He slipped into the water, swimming towards Beshte and Frerin.
Suddenly, Kion's heart twisted, as he heard Nguruma shriek from behind him.
He swung around, and stared in horror as he saw Slash and Reth cornering Makini and Nguruma against a boulder. Makini was standing in front of Nguruma, desperately swinging her staff. Suddenly, Reth lunged towards her, knocking her away from Nguruma, and grasped her staff, breaking it in half.
“No!” Makini shrieked.
Slash grasped Nguruma's scruff, and dragged him towards the water, pushing him underneath the surface.
Kion growled and lunged towards Reth.
"Back off from my brother!" Kion snarled. He jumped at Reth, attempting to strike him, but Reth knocked him away. He then hit Kion hard on the cheek with his paw, sending him collapsing to the ground.
“Stay away, Kion. This isn't a fight you can win.” Reth said.
“I'm not letting you kill my brother, or Makini.” Kion said, as he struggled to his paws.
Ma Tembo, seeing that Nguruma was struggling, decided to step in. 
She waded quickly into the water, making her way to where Slash was holding Nguruma down underneath the water.
"Lion!" Ma Tembo called.
Slash looked up at her. 
“I believe you're looking a little parched.” Ma Tembo said.
She sprayed water at Slash's face, and Slash yelped, struggling to see with water dripping into her eyes.
Ma Tembo grasped Nguruma with her trunk, placing the semi-unconscious lion onto her back. She headed back to the shore, placing him gently on the ground.
“It's all right. You're safe now.” Ma Tembo said, gently stroking her trunk along Nguruma's spine.
Kion rushed towards them, falling to his paws beside Nguruma. Makini was close behind him.
He gently nudged Nguruma's cheek, pressing himself against Nguruma's drenched pelt, feeling Nguruma shiver against him.
“I'm so sorry, little brother.” Kion said, his voice shaking with emotion.
Nguruma coughed, and water dripped down his chin. His body convulsed violently.
“We need to get him home.” Kion said.
Suddenly, Beshte, Frerin, and Makuu came hurrying towards them. 
“What happened!?” Beshte asked, his eyes wide with horror as he watched Kion start gently lapping at Nguruma's drenched pelt, Nguruma shivered, and closed his eyes. Makini moved closer, and bent down to listen to Nguruma's heartbeat.
“His heart is racing. My staff is gone, so I won't be able to treat him until we get him to Pride Rock.” Makini said shakily, her tone filled with fear.
Suddenly, Ma Tembo cleared her throat. 
“If you'll excuse me for a heartbeat, I believe there's some villains that must be dealt with. I'll be right back.” Ma Tembo said.
“I'll join you.” Makuu said.
Ma Tembo stood up, and she and Makuu advanced towards Reth's Pride, who had gathered near an acacia tree.
Ma Tembo sucked up dust from a patch of dirt on the ground, aiming it at Reth's Pride.
“I strongly suggest you leave now, before anyone else gets hurt.” Makuu said, his tone filled with venom.
Reth and Slash exchanged a glance, their expressions filled with fear.
“Back to the Outlands, everyone. Now.” Reth ordered.
The pride began to rush towards the border.
Suddenly, Fuli, Ono, and Bunga approached, followed by Bupu and Laini.
Fuli stopped suddenly when she caught sight of Nguruma, who was laying against Kion's side.
“What happened!? Is he okay!?” Fuli asked, her eyes wide with horror and concern. 
“I'll explain later. He needs to be taken home. Now.” Kion said.
“Did you handle the hyenas?” Beshte asked.
“Affirmative. They're all headed for the Outlands.” Ono said. 
Makuu, Bupu, and Laini exchanged a glance.
“If everything is handled, I must return to my float, to observe their training.” Makuu said.
“Laini and I must leave as well.” Bupu said.
Kion nodded.
“Thank you for your help, you've all trained excellently today.” Kion said.
“Be sure to let us know when Nguruma recovers.” Makuu said.
“I will.” Kion said.
He watched as Makuu, Bupu, and Laini began to head towards Urembo River.
Kion glanced at Nguruma, who had fallen asleep, gently stroking his tail along Nguruma's flank.
“Let's get him home.” Kion said.
Ma Tembo carefully grasped Nguruma with her trunk, placing him gently onto her back. With a nudge from Beshte, Makini climbed up onto Ma Tembo's back, pulling Nguruma over to rest against her.
Kion began to lead the way to Pride Rock, his heart twisted with concern and fear.
When they arrived at Pride Rock, Kion led the others into the den.
Simba and Nala were settled down in a mossy nest. Kiara and Mahuluti were settled down behind them.
Simba and Nala glanced up, and immediately leapt to their paws.
“What in the Pride Lands!” Simba exclaimed.
“What happened, Kion?! Is he all right?!” Nala asked, her voice shaking.
"Nguru-Nguruma was attacked by Reth and his pride. Slash tried to d-drown him, and-" Kion stammered, his paws shaking.
Ma Tembo knelt down, and Fuli and Makini carefully pulled Nguruma off of her back, settling him into a mossy nest. They settled down on either side, pressing themselves against him.
Kiara's eyes widened with shock as she gazed at Nguruma.
"Is he...Is he dead?" Kiara asked shakily.
Beside her, Mahuluti's eyes were wide, her gazed fixated on Nguruma. 
“Nguruma!” Mahuluti called, her tone frantic.
She moved over, and crouched down beside Nguruma. Fuli was gently licking Nguruma's flank, her tail wrapped around his shoulders.
Suddenly, Rafiki appeared at the entrance to the cave.
“I have come to escort Makini home to Ukuni Woods…” Rafiki said, his voice trailing off as he caught sight of Nguruma. 
“What's this? What has happened to young Nguruma?” Rafiki asked.
“Reth's Pride almost drowned him. He needs help.” Kion said, moving to settle down close to Nguruma. 
“He needs me, Uncle Rafiki. I'm not leaving him.” Makini added, pressing closer to Nguruma.
Rafiki moved forward, and knelt down to listen to Nguruma's heartbeat.
“He needs thyme leaves, and poppy seeds. I will make an herb mixture.” Rafiki said.
He moved to grasp an herb wrap, and unwrapped it, dropping the herbs into a gourd filled with water. He mixed the herbs, and came over to to the nest. 
Simba, Nala, and Kiara had settled down around the nest, their gazes fixated on Nguruma.
Rafiki glanced at Makini, who was still pressed close to Nguruma.
“Will you shift his head, honey? I must pour the mixture into his mouth.” Rafiki said.
“Of course, Uncle Rafiki.” Makini said.
“I'll help.” Fuli said.
She and Makini carefully shifted Nguruma's head, and Rafiki poured the mixture into his mouth. Fuli tenderly stroked her tail along Nguruma's spine, feeling his whole body shudder.
As Nala watched, she felt her heart clench with emotion.
“Rafiki, will our boy be all right?” Nala asked.
Beside her, Simba brushed his tail along Nala's spine, his eyes wide as he gazed at Nguruma. 
Rafiki gently ruffled Nguruma's head tuft, and glanced up at Simba and Nala.
"I am not certain. He will need time." Rafiki said.
Kion's heart twisted, and he pressed himself closer to Nguruma.
==Appearances==
===Characters===
*Max Charles as Kion
*Cade Sutton as Mhina
*Joshua Rush as Bunga (cameo)
*Diamond White as Fuli
*Bryana Salaz as Anga (cameo)
*Atticus Shaffer as Ono
*Dusan Brown as Beshte
*Rob Lowe as Simba
* Moira Kelly as Nala
* Eden Riegel as Kiara
* Landry Bender as Makini / Tatu
* Lyons Luke Mathias as Nguruma / Frerin (cameos)
* Meghan Strange as Ayo (cameo) / Shupavu / Alasiri (cameo) / Laini (cameo)
* Lou Diamond Phillips as Surak (cameo) / Ajani
* Gene Miller as Regandi (cameo)
* Maisie Klompus as Merah / Madoa / Itanya (cameos)
* Khary Payton as Rafiki 
*Nick Watt as Zito (cameo)
* Behzad Dabu as Azaad (cameo)
* Amber Hood as Chausiku (cameo)
* Mekai Curtis as Kopa (cameo)
* Noah Baird as Okereke
* Jeff Bennett as Zazu (cameo)
* Kimiko Glenn as Asante (cameo)
* Maia Mitchell as Jasiri (cameo)
* Ace Gibson as Jivin / Johari (cameo)
* Shohreh Aghdashloo as Sapphire / Janna (cameos)
* Erica Luttrell as Queen Maya / Boboka (cameo)
* Peyton Elizabeth Lee as Rani
* Hudson Yang as Baliyo / Kicheko (cameo) / Danyal (cameo)
* Bailey Gambertoglio as Aminia (cameo)
* Miki Yamashita as Nirmala (cameo)
* Marieve Herington as Kenene / Zigo (cameos)
* Lana McKissack as Anika (cameo)
* Kate Micucci as Mahuluti
* Vyvan Pham as Ullu (cameo) / Amali 
* Aaron Daniel Jacob as Kingiza (cameo)
* Paget Brewster as Kamaria (cameo)
* Frances Conroy as Janja (mentioned)
* Evan Kishiyama as Ganda (cameo)
* Blair Underwood as Makuu 
* Rachel House as Mfukoni (cameo)
* Lynette DuPree as Ma Tembo
* Grace Young as Wimbo (cameo)
* Michael Dorn as Bupu
* Gary Anthony Williams as Chifu
* David Oyelowo as Scar / Kumbutana (cameo)
* Henry Kaufman as Mshale
* Beau Black as Magoro (cameo)
* Christopher Willis as Ishi (cameo)
* Ron Funches as Soyinka
* Justin Hires as Reth
* Dee Bradley Baker as Masikio (mentioned)
* Jorge Diaz as Ekene (cameo)
* Savannah Smith as Slash (cameo)
* Nolan North as Krud'dha (cameo)
* Eric Bauza as Pãgala (cameo)
* CCH Pounder as Jahaira (cameo)
* Virginia Watson as Pembe (cameo)
* Sarah-Nicole Robles as Kubali (cameo)
===Groups===
* The Lion Guard
*Kion's Army
* Simba's Pride 
* Makuu's Float
* Laini's Group
* Bupu's Herd
* Ma Tembo's Herd
* Kubariki's Clan
* Pride Landers 
* Back Landers 
* Nyuma Pride 
* Tumaini Pride 
* Night Pride 
* Janja's Clan (mentioned)
* Reth's Pride 
* Masikio's Drove (mentioned)
* Spirits of the Past (mentioned)
* Pãgala's Mob
===Locations===
*Pride Lands 
**Pride Rock
**Ndefu Grove (mentioned)
**Chakula Plains
**Maji Baridi Falls (mentioned)
**Watering Hole
**Urembo River (mentioned)
**Lake Shangaza (mentioned)
**Ukuni Woods
**Mapango Cliffs (mentioned)
*Tree of Life 
**Bamboo Woods (mentioned)
**Desert Plains (mentioned)
**Marsh Forest (mentioned)
*Leopon Plains
**Msafiri Forest 
**Bwawa Marsh (mentioned)
**Jangwa Desert (mentioned)
**Dragon Island (mentioned)
*Back Lands
**Mirihi Forest
**Iroko Tree (mentioned)
**Back Lands Canyons (mentioned)
===Animals===
*Lions
*Leopons
*Cheetahs
*Hippopotamuses
*Honey Badgers
*Eagles
*Egrets
*Skinks
*Hyenas
*Mandrills
*Elephants
*Antelope
*Galagos
*Crocodiles
*Hornbills
*Mongeese
*Wallabies
==Trivia==
* This chapter was released on Av's 15th birthday.
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Category:Legends of the Lion Guard: Battle for the Pride Lands
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Category:Legends of the Lion Guard: Battle for the Pride Lands Chapters
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