The next morning, Ono flew out to Avani with Kion's request that they all come and join him.
As they waited, everyone caught up with the events of the past year, and Simba could not express how proud he was of both his children - they were both strong, responsible leaders, and he knew had raised them right with Nala.
Around dusk, Ono at last settled back on Kion's shoulder and informed him the pride was entering the pridelands.
Joyfully, Kion ran to meet them.
"DAD! DADDY!" "PAPA!" the cubs cheered, running to him when they saw them.
He embraced them fiercely, nuzzling them with much love.
"Hello, my love." Zainabu greeted, nuzzling him gently.
Kion sighed and nodded happily at Eshe, Bina and Jaha, who bowed back.
"Come everyone - come meet my birth pride...and you're grandparents and aunty and new uncle!" he said, directing the last part to his cubs.
They didn't hesitate to obey.