Kion, second cub and only son if King Simba and Queen Nala of the pridelands, had been leader of "The Lion Guard" for over 2 years.
In that time, he had grew emotionally and physically - he was a powerful male, and actually larger than his father - he was closer in size to his grandfather, Mufasa.
He would have made a magnificent king, but it was not to be - as second born, he was second in line to the throne, the first in line being his older sister, Kiara.
Oh, he didn't mind - he was very happy for her and saw she would make a wise and fair queen...but - he did have a taste for being a leader, and the lion guard was very, very rarely needed now. They also had had to replace Fuli the cheetah when she became a mother to her first cubs.
Cheetah's were solitary creatures, and so Fuli spent all of her time either hunting or looking after her babies, Laya and Miza.
The pridelands were in good shape, and Kion grew restless.
Sighing one day, he made a decision and went to see Simba.
The king himself was lying on top of pride rock, very relaxed and pleased.
He was 5 years old now and in his prime. He had many years left in him, and hoped they would be peaceful.
His children had grown into strong and wise adults, and he was proud of them.
His ears pricked as he heard the sound of powerful paws coming towards him.
Smiling, he turned to his beloved son.
"Good morning, Kion. Are you ok?"
Kion smiled in return and rubbed his head against Simba's affectionately, before collapsing happily next to him.
"Father...there is something I have come to talk to you about."
Simba raised up a little so he was comfortable and attentive.
"What is it?"
"Well...life here is wonderful. As a cub, I enjoyed many adventures leading the lion guard, and the pride lands are healthy and happy.
Life has moved on quickly - Fuli had her cubs three months ago, and Kiara is getting ready to go on her first hunt soon. Look...I'm so, so happy for her, you know? Being first in line for the throne - I know she will be a fair and kind queen. But...I have the bloody of you and Mufasa, not just in my body but in my very soul - it was my destiny to lead, which is why I was good with the lion guard. Father - I love you all so, so much, and I love these lands - but...there is something more for me out there. I have come to ask for your blessing. I want to go out and find my own land - my own pride to rule…"
Simba was listening intently and sighed out thoughtfully.
"Oh Kion - you truly are my son - and Mufasa's grandson! You are right - you have the blood of a leader in you. I want you to know that you will be sorely missed by all of us. Perhaps when you find your own land and pride you will send word for us to visit? And of course you must come back to visit us!"
Kion's eyes had began to swim with tears and he pressed his head hard into his father's, and they stayed that way for several minutes.
Finally, they separated, both clearing their throats.
Simba also had tears in his eyes and breathed out.
"Son - before you go...I need you to know that I love you with all my heart and I am SO proud of you!"
Kion looked down and smiled.
"Thank you, father - I love you too. I will stay for another few days and say my goodbyes to everyone...and then, I will go."
Simba nodded proudly, and together they went to find the pride and tell them the news.
Nala was saddened to lose her son, but also very proud of him and respected his decision. She knew she would see him again one day.
Kiara was also upset to see her only brother leave.
Secretly, she always sought his council, and worried about her ability to lead without him.
"Kion - what will I do without you?" she whispered after hugging him.
He looked her in the eyes.
"You will lead, like the queen you were born to be."
Kiara smiled and nodded through her tears.
With a last, sad look at his family and friends, Kion nodded goodbye, and left to find his future.