A Celebration in the Pride Lands

**A Celebration in the Pride Lands** is the second episode of Legends of the Lion Guard: Protectors of the Pride Lands

## Synopsis

Mhina and his family celebrate their first Kupatana with the Pride Landers.

## Transcript

On a beautiful clear day in the Pride Lands, Kion and the Lion Guard were relaxing in the Lair.

"Isn't Kupatana tomorrow?" Fuli asked.

Kion nodded.

“It's Mari's first Kupatana. Mhina and his family want to celebrate it with us." Kion said.

“That'll be exciting. Mhina will get to meet all of our friends and family.” Beshte said.

“And we'll get to meet his family.” Ono added.

Kion nodded.

"Nona and Grandpa Hasani are looking forward to meeting Mhina's parents.” Kion said.

“What about you? We all know you and Mhina have a crush on each other.” Fuli said teasingly.

“I'm looking forward to meeting Mhina's family too. He's told me a lot about his siblings.” Kion said.

He glanced up as Vitani appeared at the entrance to the cave.

“What's up, Tani?” Kion asked.

“Can you and the Guard look after Mari tomorrow? She'll enjoy her first Kupatana more if I'm not hovering over her.” Vitani said.

Kion exchanged a glance with his friends.

“Sure, Tani. We'd love to look after her.” Kion said.

“Thanks, honey. Also, Simba needs to see you, about Mhina and his family coming here tomorrow.” Vitani said.

“I'll be right there.” Kion said.

He watched as Vitani bounded off.

Fuli's expression brightened.

“We get to look after Mari tomorrow. She's the most precious of your nieces, Kion.” Fuli said.

Kion chuckled.

“You can have the main responsibility of keeping an eye on her, Fuli.” Kion said.

Bunga cleared his throat awkwardly.

“What does the rest of the pride think about Mhina's family coming here to celebrate Kupatana?” Bunga asked.

“They're okay with it. Dad will reprimand Kata and Maya if they make a fuss tomorrow.” Kion said.

“You should go see what King Simba wants, Kion.” Ono said.

“Okay, I'll be back in a little bit.” Kion said.

He bounded out of the Lair, and headed up towards the peak.

When he reached the peak, he saw Simba, Nala, and Kiara settled down outside the den.

Kion bounded forward, and stretched to nuzzle Simba's cheek.

"What is it, Dad? Tani said you wanted to see me, about Mhina's family." Kion said.

"Come here, sweetie. Sit down." Nala said.

She watched as Kion settled down beside her.

“I just wanted to remind you that Mhina's family is also coming to reaffirm the treaty and alliance that we made with them. It's not just about you and Mhina hanging out.” Simba said.

“You'll have time to spend together, they'll be here early tomorrow. “ Kiara said quickly.

“You and the Guard will be responsible for entertaining Mhina and his siblings.” Simba said.

“Sure, Dad. We can do that. Tani wants us to look after Mari tomorrow too.” Kion said.

"Excellent. Thank you, son." Simba said.

"You're welcome, Dad." Kion said.

Kiara rubbed a paw against Kion's cheek.

“Are you excited?” Kiara asked.

Kion nodded.

“Tomorrow will be really great.” Kion said.

He glanced up as Sarafina approached them.

“Hi, Nona.” Kion said.

“Hi, sweetheart. Are you excited for tomorrow?” Sarafina asked.

Kion nodded.

“Seeing Mhina will be fun.” Kion said.

“We're all excited to see him and his family, honey.” Nala said.

Simba cleared his throat.

“It's almost sundown, and we have a big day tomorrow. Let's get ready to sleep.” Simba said.

He led the way into the den.

The next day, Kion and the Guard assembled at the border near the watering hole.

“Zazu said that the Leopon Plains majordomo sent word that Mhina and his family were on the way.” Kion said.

“This Kupatana will be unBungalieveable.” Bunga said.

“Yeah, it will be.” Kion said.

From his spot perched on Beshte's back, Ono cleared his throat.

“I can see Mhina's family. They're here.” Ono said.

Kion and Fuli exchanged a glance.

“Okay, everyone. Let's go greet them.” Kion said.

“I'll fly back to Pride Rock and tell your parents, Kion.” Ono said.

“Thanks, Ono.” Kion said.

He watched as Ono spread his wings, and flew off.

Kion bounded forward, and approached Mhina.

“Hi Mhina.” Kion said.

Mhina cleared his throat.

“Hey, Kion. Thanks for inviting us.” Mhina said.

“You're welcome.” Kion said.

He glanced behind him as Beshte, Bunga, and Fuli approached.

“Where's Ono?” Mhina asked.

“He went back to Pride Rock to tell my parents you've arrived.” Kion said.

From behind Mhina, Ajani cleared his throat.

“We're all so pleased to be here, in the Pride Lands to celebrate Kupatana.” Ajani said.

“We're glad to have you all. This will be a special Kupatana for everyone.” Kion said.

From behind him, Fuli cleared her throat.

“We'd better be heading to Pride Rock, Kion, so your family can see Mhina's.” Fuli said.

“You're right, Fuli.” Kion said.

He glanced at Ajani and Ayo.

“Follow me, your highnesses. I'll take you to see my parents.” Kion said.

“All right, Kion.” Ajani said.

Kion led the way to Pride Rock.

When they arrived, they saw that a small crowd of animals had gathered at Pride Rock.

“Wow, there's a lot of animals here.” Mhina said.

Kion chuckled.

“There'll be a lot more animals at the celebration later. Follow me.” Kion said.

He led them towards the peak.

Simba, Nala, Kiara, Nguruma, Rafiki, Ono, and Makini were settled outside the entrance to the den. The rest of the pride was assembled behind them.

“Mom, Dad, I've brought Mhina and his family to greet you.” Kion said.

Simba and Nala exchanged a glance, and Simba moved forward.

"On behalf of the royal family. I welcome our friends and allies, the Tumaini Pride, to the Pride Lands to celebrate Kupatana." Simba said.

Ajani cleared his throat.

“My pride and I are extremely pleased to be welcomed in the Pride Lands. We hope that our friendship will flourish, and extend for many seasons to come.” Ajani said.

Simba glanced behind him at Kion.

“My son, and his Lion Guard will be pleased to entertain your children today, whilst we discuss our treaty. The Kupatana celebration will commence, at sundown.” Simba said.

“We look forward to celebrating with the inhabitants of your kingdom, Simba.” Ajani said.

He glanced at Mhina, Tatu, Kopa, and Kicheko.

“You all behave today.” Ajani said.

“Yes, Dad. We will.” Mhina said.

Kion cleared his throat.

“Come on, Mhina. My friends and I will show you and your siblings our lair.” Kion said.

“Okay, Kion.” Mhina said.

He, Tatu, Kicheko, and Kopa followed Kion and the Lion Guard towards the lair.

Once they'd gone, Simba turned to Ajani.

“Shall we go inside the den and discuss our treaty?” Simba asked.

“Of course, your majesty.” Ajani said.

He, Ayo, Amali, Atiena, Kamaria, Sapphire, and Anika followed Simba, Nala, Kovu, and Kiara into the den.

Meanwhile, Kion, the Guard, and Mhina, Tatu, Kicheko, and Kopa had ventured to the Water Hole.

“What're we going to do today, until the celebration?” Mhina asked.

“We can do whatever you want. We do have to look after my youngest niece tonight, at the celebration.” Kion said.

“Okay.” Mhina said.

Tatu cleared her throat.

“Maybe we can play baobab ball.” Tatu suggested.

“That's a good idea.” Bunga said.

Unbeknownst to them, Waza was watching them from a tree branch.

“I'd better tell Shupavu that the leopon pride has come to the Pride Lands.” Waza muttered.

He slipped down the tree trunk, and moved towards the Outlands border.

When Waza arrived at the border, he saw Shupavu and Reth waiting.

“What news do you have, Waza?” Shupavu asked.

“The leopons from Leopon Plains have arrived in the Pride Lands to celebrate Kupatana with the royal family.” Waza said.

“You mean that Mhina, and his family, don't you?” Reth asked.

“That's exactly who I mean.” Waza answered.

“Hmm. I believe that the celebration could use a few more guests. I'll gather my pride.” Reth said.

He glanced at Shupavu.

“Find Slash, and tell her.” Reth said.

“Of course, Reth.” Shupavu said.

Meanwhile, back at Pride Rock, Ajani, Ayo, Amali, Atiena, Kamaria, Sapphire, and Anika had joined Simba, Nala, Kovu, and Kiara inside the den.

“I'm glad you and your family are here, Ajani. This peace treaty will benefit both of our lands, and our prides.” Simba said.

“Yes, Ayo and I are so pleased to have negotiated this treaty with you. We hope it flourishes and strengthens the relationship between our kingdoms.” Ajani said.

Simba cleared his throat.

“I'm pleased that the Pride Landers, and my family have a chance to know you and your family better.“ Simba said.

“We've all been looking forward to seeing your kingdom, and celebrating Kupatana.” Ajani said.

“I can assure you that nothing wrong will happen tonight.” Simba said.

Meanwhile, the Lion Guard, Mhina, Tatu, Kopa, and Kicheko had finished their game of baobab ball.

“So, what do we do now?” Kicheko asked.

“We should all probably head home, and get ready for the celebration tonight.” Kion said.

“Okay, Kion.” Mhina said.

Kion glanced at Beshte, Ono, Bunga, and Fuli.

“We'll see you later, at the celebration.” Kion said.

“See you then, Kion.” Fuli said.

She watched as Kion led Mhina, Kicheko, Tatu, and Kopa towards Pride Rock.

When Kion, Mhina, Kicheko, Tatu, and Kopa arrived at Pride Rock, they saw Simba and Kiara waiting outside the den.

“I'm glad you're back. It's time to head to Mizimu Grove for the celebration.” Simba said.

“Okay, Dad.” Kion said.

Simba glanced behind him at the assembled pride.

“Okay, everyone, let's go.” Simba said.

He began to lead the way to Mizimu Grove.

When they arrived, they saw that the Pride Landers had already gathered.

Simba stepped forward.

“Before we begin, I'd like to welcome someone to the Circle of Life.” Simba said.

His expression softened as he glanced at Marigold.

“My grandniece, Marigold.” Simba said loudly.

Fuli gently nudged Marigold forward to stand beside Simba.

The animals cheered loudly, and Simba gestured for silence.

“Today also marks another momentous occasion, the establishment of a bond of friendship with the Tumaini Pride of Leopon Plains.” Simba said.

Ajani stepped forward.

“It is our wish that this friendship bring a new period of peace and prosperity to our kingdoms.” Ajani said.

From behind Simba, Kata scoffed loudly.

“The only thing that will come of this alliance is ruin. Leopons are not to be trusted or respected. They are not like us.” Kata said.

“My mother speaks the truth. This alliance will bring chaos to the Pride Lands.” Maya said.

Simba's expression hardened.

“Both of you leave at once. I will not tolerate such disrespect to honored guests in my kingdom.” Simba said.

“Come, Maya.” Kata said.

She and Maya headed towards Pride Rock.

Once they'd gone, Kora cleared his throat.

“I apologize for the behavior of my mother and sister. I can assure you that they do not speak the truth.” Kora said.

“We are all honored to have you here.” Simba added.

“Thank you, your majesty.” Ajani said.

From her spot beside Fuli, Marigold yawned.

“The celebration will be over soon, Mari. Just a little while longer.” Fuli said gently.

She rubbed a paw against Marigold's cheek.

“I'm tired, Fuli.” Marigold said.

“I know. You'll get to sleep soon.” Fuli said.

Unnoticed by them, Reth and his pride were observing the gathered Pride Landers from behind a bush.

“All right, everyone. The plan is in motion. We will attack the Pride Landers when they least expect it.” Reth said.

“Then we will rule over the Pride Lands ourselves.” Slash said.

“Okay, everyone. Follow me.” Reth said.

He stepped out from behind the bush, and cleared his throat.

“Look at this. The Pride Landers have gathered to watch flowers bloom.” Reth said.

“But now they are trapped, with nowhere to hide.” Slash added.

Simba's expression hardened.

“You have no place here. Leave at once. You will not spoil this celebration.” Simba said.

“Dad, let me and the Guard handle this.” Kion said.

He glanced at his friends.

“Fuli, you stay with Mari. Keep the animals safe. Ono, you help her. Beshte and Bunga, you're with me.” Kion said.

“You got it, Kion.” Fuli said.

Kion glanced at the assembled animals.

“Everyone! Don't be afraid! You can all help the Lion Guard by defending each other!”  Kion said.

Simba cleared his throat.

“Kion is right. If we stand together, no one can defeat us.” Simba said.

“We'll fight for what's right. Pride Landers unite.” Kion said.

He glanced at Simba.

“Stay with the pride, Dad. The Guard can handle this.” Kion said.

Mhina cleared his throat.

“Let my siblings and I help, Kion.” Mhina said.

“I can't ask you to do that. This isn't your fight. Reth is attacking the Pride Landers.” Kion said.

“The Tumaini Pride is allied with the Pride Landers now. Any fight of yours is our fight too.” Mhina said.

“Thank you, Mhina.” Kion said.

“We'll help Fuli and Ono keep the animals safe. You handle Reth.” Mhina said.

“Okay.” Kion said.

As Kion moved towards Reth, Marigold pressed herself closer to Fuli.

“I'm scared, Fuli.” Marigold said.

“Don't worry, Kion won't let Reth hurt you, or anyone else. You're safe.” Fuli said gently.

“Okay.” Marigold said.

Fuli watched as Kion approached Reth.

“You have one chance to leave peacefully. If you do not, I will use the Roar.” Kion said.

Reth chuckled.

“Why should we leave a party?” Reth asked.

“Because you aren't welcome.” Kion said.

“My pride and I aren't going anywhere. This celebration brings together animals of all species. It's perfect for us to feast on.” Reth said.

“I will not let you harm a Pride Lander, or the leopons of Leopon Plains.” Kion said.

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

He braced himself, and performed the Roar.

It sent Reth and his pride flying backwards.

Kion watched as they stalked off.

He glanced at the assembled animals.

“You are all safe now. Reth and his pride are gone.” Kion said.

Simba cleared his throat.

“It is time for the baobab flowers to bloom.” Simba said.

Rafiki stepped forward, and waved his staff.

Mhina moved forward to stand beside Kion.

“Happy Kupatana, Kion.” Mhina said.

“Happy Kupatana.” Kion said.

The next morning, the Tumaini Pride, and Simba's pride gathered at the base of Pride Rock.

“We are grateful for your warm hospitality, and the chance to witness a beautiful celebration in your kingdom.” Ajani said.

“I hope that this celebration will be the first of many gatherings between our prides.” Simba said.

“We hope that as well.” Ayo said.

Behind them, Mhina approached Kion.

“I'll see you soon. I had a lot of fun at the celebration.” Mhina said.

“I had fun too. I can't wait to see you and your siblings again.” Kion said.

Ajani cleared his throat.

“Come on, everyone. Let's go.” Ajani said.

He led the Tumaini Pride towards the border.

Kiara moved forward to stand beside Kion.

“Are you okay?” Kiara asked.

Kion nodded.

“I want to talk to Grandpa. I'll be back later.” Kion said.

“Okay.” Kiara said.

She watched as Kion bounded off.

When Kion reached the Watering Hole, he glanced up at the sky.

“Grandpa Mufasa, are you there?” Kion asked.

He shivered as Mufasa's spirit embraced him.

“I'm here, Kion. What is it?” Mufasa prompted.

“Do you believe that the treaty with the Tumaini Pride will bring peace to the Pride Lands?” Kion asked.

“Yes, I do. It will bring peace, and so much more.” Mufasa said.

“What more will it bring?” Kion asked.

“That is for you to discover on your own.” Mufasa said.

## Appearances

### Characters

* **Henry Kaufman** as Mhina
* **Max Charles** as Kion
* **Joshua Rush** as Bunga
* **Diamond White** as Fuli
* **Atticus Shaffer** as Ono
* **Dusan Brown** as Beshte
* **Rob Lowe** as Simba
* **Gabrielle Union** as Nala
* **Eden Riegel** as Kiara
* **Jason Marsden** as Kovu *(cameo)*
* **Matthew Broderick** as Kora
* **Lacey Chabert** as Vitani
* **Ivy Bishop** as Nita / Juhudi *(cameos)*
* **Fiona Hart** as Marigold
* **Landry Bender** as Belee *(cameo)* / Makini *(cameo)* / Tatu
* **Lyons Luke Mathias** as Denahi / Nguruma *(cameos)*
* **Bailey Gambertoglio** as Na'Zyia *(cameo)*
* **Gene Miller** as Atka *(cameo)*
* **Kari Wahlgren** as Dara / Marali *(cameos)*
* **Maisie Klompus** as Merah / Madoa / Itanya *(cameos)*
* **Penny Johnson Jerald** as Sarafina
* **John O'Hurley** as Hasani *(cameo)*
* **Jack McBrayer** as Mheetu *(cameo)*
* **Alfre Woodard** as Sarabi *(cameo)*
* **Khary Payton** as Rafiki / Muhangus *(cameos)*
* **Heather Headley** as Kitendo / Fila / Naanda *(cameos)*
* **Christopher Jackson** as Fikiri *(cameo)*
* **Mekai Curtis** as Kopa *(cameo)*
* **Noah Baird** as Vuai *(cameo)*
* **Jeff Bennett** as Zazu *(cameo)*
* **Kevin Schon** as Timon *(cameo)*
* **Ernie Sabella** as Pumbaa *(cameo)*
* **Fiona Riley** as Shabaha *(cameo)*
* **Kimiko Glenn** as Amira / Asante *(cameo)*
* **Maia Mitchell** as Jasiri *(cameo)*
* **Hudson Yang** as Kicheko / Xolani / Shauri *(cameos)*
* **Lou Diamond Phillips** as Ajani
* **Meghan Strange** as Ayo *(cameo)* / Alasiri *(cameo)* / Shupavu / Muhanga *(cameo)* / Mbuni *(cameo)* / Kinyonga *(cameo)*
* **Marieve Herington** as Kenene / Zigo *(cameos)*
* **Lana McKissack** as Anika / Sukuma / Nyeupe / Zuzu / Anenih *(cameos)*
* **Vyvan Pham** as Amali *(cameo)*
* **Shohreh Aghdashloo** as Sapphire *(cameo)*
* **Aaron Daniel Jacob** as Koti *(cameo)*
* **Tiffany Espensen** as Dwala / Atiena *(cameos)*
* **Ana Gasteyer** as Diku *(cameo)* / Maya
* **Paget Brewster** as Kamaria / Kubariki *(cameos)*
* **Kate Micucci** as Mahuluti *(cameo)*
* **Moira Kelly** as Kata
* **Rachel Crow** as Imara / Tishala *(cameos)*
* **Savannah Smith** as Kasi *(cameo)* / Slash
* **Sophie Reynolds** as Tazama *(cameo)*
* **Julie Kavner** as Ma *(cameo)*
* **Charlie Adler** as Max *(cameo)*
* **Justin Hires** as Reth / Waza
* **Phil LaMarr** as Shingo *(cameo)*
* **Johnny Rees** as Kariuki *(cameo)*
* **Jorge Diaz** as Ekene *(cameo)*
* **James Earl Jones** as Mufasa
* **Phil Lester** as Umande and Mpya *(cameo)*
* **Justin Felbinger** as Mtoto *(cameo)*
* **Ogie Banks** as Cheka *(cameo)*
* **Matthew Yang King** as Ajali / Fababa *(cameos)*
* **Nick Watt** as Nane / Zito *(cameos)*
* **Dee Bradley Baker** as Kibwe / Masikio *(cameos)*
* **Mckenna Grace** as Kambuni *(cameo)*
* **Alex Cartañá** as Twiga *(cameo)*
* **Lynette DuPree** as Ma Tembo *(cameo)*
* **Tania Gunadi** as Mchuzi *(cameo)*
* **Ace Gibson** as Johari / Haraka *(cameos)*
* **Natalie Coughlin** as Lulu *(cameo)*
* **Virginia Watson** as Pembe *(cameo)*
* **Jacob Bertrand** as Chama *(cameo)*
* **Andrea Libman** as Nayeli / Ekwensi *(cameos)*
* **Deb Doetzer** as Tama *(cameo)*
* **Sarah-Nicole Robles** as Kubali *(cameo)*

### Groups

* The Lion Guard
* Simba's Pride
* Fikiri's Troop
* Tumaini Pride
* Kubariki's Clan
* Reth's Pride
* Sukuma's Flock
* Max's Colony
* Muhangus's Armory
* Mbuni's Flock
* Twiga's Herd
* Ma Tembo's Herd
* Masikio's Drove
* Shupavu's Group
* Pride Landers *(uncredited)*

### Locations

* Pride Lands
	+ Pride Rock
	+ The Lair of the Lion Guard
	+ Mizimu Grove
	+ Watering Hole
* Outlands

### Animals

* Leopons
* Lions
* Honey Badgers
* Cheetahs
* Egrets
* Hippopotamuses
* Mandrills
* Hornbills
* Meerkats
* Warthogs
* Hyenas
* Eagles
* Skinks
* Porcupines
* Elephants
* Aardvarks
* Ostriches
* Giraffes

## Trivia

* This episodes marks the introduction of the characters owned by Ginnyharry4ever, which are used with permission.
* In the original version...
	+ Mhina is a lost prince and a lyena who doesn't know his family; however, this was changed to prevent major consistency errors with Ava15's current universe.
	+ Kanapkuba's characters were present in the original version, but were removed because they didn't fit into Ava15's universe. Ava15 also didn't want to use them in the updated version of the story.