Episode 23:

The Hyena Resistance:

It hasn’t been long since Scar attempted to take over the Crystal Empire, and after a series of surprising events that didn’t go his way, he has now been more aggressive than before by ordering more attacks on the Pride Lands, one that the Lion and Pony Guard are currently facing now, one in regards to both Kiburi's float and Janja's clan now putting up another attack.

“We mean it!”

“Get outta the Pride Lands, Kiburi.”

The leaders of the Guard angrily told the crocodile as they tried to surround the whole team once more.

“It's only the Pride Land 'cause we haven' taken it over.. Yet.” Kiburi hen proceeded to kick start the attack by going after Kion himself.

It didn’t take more than two seconds until the alicorn prince was able to quickly shoot a direct blast right at him to force him back. Twilight then followed it up with a quick whip to knock him off of his legs with Fuli going in for the pounce.

“You're not going anywhere, Kiburi. Except back to the Outlands!”

“And that goes for your whole float!” Kion then proceeded to attack Tamaka as he tried to attack him once more.

Cheezi himself broke out into crazed laughter as he goes after Bunga and Pinkie Pie who both are all ready for him.

But just as he approached them, Bunga raised a paw to get him to stop. “Hey, wait!”

“Wait!” Pinkie commanded of the hyena who quickly obeyed.

“Huh?”

Pinkie turned to her honey badger friend. “You ready now?”

Bunga proceeded to pick up the stick sitting next to him. “Okay, I'm ready. Bring it! Hee-yaa!” He proceeded to unleash some karate style moves as he used the staff as a staff, but when he did, he accidentally hit himself in the face and fell on his back “Ow!”

Upon seeing this both Cheezi and Chungu shared a laugh together.

“Honey badger on a stick! That's hilarious!”

“I’ll say. Now let’s eat him.”

But before they can get anywhere near him, Pinkie was quick to come to his defense. “Actually I have a better idea…” She then pulled up a couple of pies. “...eat this!” She slammed two pies right in their faces before using her party cannon to blast them away.

“Wow! I love pie!”

“Me too!”

The two laughed before passing out from what they’ve just endured.

Janja himself happened to notice this and was quick to try to get them to keep it up. “Cheezi! Chungu Quit laughing and playing around and start fightin'!” But at that moment Rarity was quick to seize on the hyena’s momentary distraction by giving him a swift karate kick. One that sent him flying and into Beshte who likewise used his snout to slam him away into the rest of his pack.

From the shadows of a hidden area of rocks, Jasiri herself having happened to have witnessed this, giggled at the sight as she watched from a distance.

By then, Applejack and Rainbow Dash have managed to tie up the crocodiles with Kiburi being the sole exception given that he on the other hand was just finished getting his tail handed to him by both Twilight and Fuli.

“Uhh, that's enough for one day!” Janja stated upon recovering. “Let's get outta here, fellas!”

“Janja! Wait for us!” Cheezi called after him when he first ran ahead.

Upon recovering Kiburi did the same but not without turning to Kion to swear vengeance upon him and the Guard, “Crocs, we're leaving. But don't worry We'll be back.” He said while trying to keep himself from looking at Twilight due to the fear of her still running up his scales before finally making his leave.

After the two groups had left, that just left one outstanding matter on their minds, the jackals who were attacking another area in the Pride Lands. Fortunately for them, they didn’t need much help considering the jackals were now running off in fear seconds later.

“Come on, boys, girls! Let’s get out of here!”

“Right behind you dear! Anything but seeing that scary look in her eyes!”

Both Reirei and Goigoi screamed with the other jackals following after them.

By then, said Guard members taking care of the jackals happened to be Starlight, Kyoga, and Fluttershy with no questions wondering what and why the jackals were so terrified after their latest encounter.

“Everyone okay?” Kion asked of everyone after all is said and done.

“All good.”

“Affirmative.”

“Yep.”

“No complains here.”

“Me neither.”

“Just fine, darling.”

“Nothing like a little magic and combat to send the jackals packing.” Starlight herself assured while blowing the smoke off of her horn.

“Along with a powerful Stare to send them running.” Fluttershy can only meekly look aside in response as she is not a fan of doing it, but she had to because the safety of the kingdom depends on it.

Then Kion noticed someone wasn’t with them. “Where's Bunga and Twilght?”

“Right here.” Twilight called out while walking alonside the honey badger now limping.

“Never felt better.”

“What happened Little B?” Beshte asked in concern.

“Because you like me just after having a boulder land on my hind legs.” Applejack then pointed out.

“I've been, uh, workin on one of Rafiki's moves.”

“And how did that go?” Fuli asked while expecting the obvious answer.

“Uh, great. See, I was facing of with Cheezi... And then I did thi crazy cool move I saw Rafiki do. Hee-yaa!” He twirled his stick once more only to suffer a repeat of what he just endured. “Well, almost did it.”

“And injured his back while doing so...again.” Twilight added while working her magic on the honey badger...again while everyone else looked on in concern.

“You sure you're okay Little B?” Beshte asked once more.

“Sure I'm sure.”

Kion however didn’t take his word for it as he moved to give him some advice. “I don't know, Bunga. Looks like it hurts. Maybe you should ask Rafiki to take a look at your back.”

“Or give you some tip on how to swing a stick.” Fuli also advised while resisting the urge not to laugh herself.

“Which I’d be more than happy to teach you.” Rarity then offered while doing the same as Fuli in trying to keep a straight face while doing so.

“I'm fine. I'll jus walk it off in no time.” But while trying to do so he still moaned in pain, forcing Twilight to use her magic to freeze him so she can continue healing him with her magic.

“I'm pretty sure being able to walk is a crucial part to the "walking it off" process. Let alone flying it off.”

“I’d hate to say it, Bunga. But the bird’s got a point.” Rainbow added while agreeing with the others. “It wasn’t until after the holidays we were finally able to fully recover from the injuries we endured back during our Wonderbolt debut performance. So you’re getting help whether you want it or not!”

The Lion and Pony Guard then continued their way forward while passing by Flat Ridge Rock. Along the way Jasiri tackled Kion by surprise with the sound of her giggling laughter accompanying her sudden presence.

“I'll save you, Kion.”

“Me too!”

Both Bunga and Pinkie were quick to rush over to him only to be held back by both Fuli and Twilight.

“Easy, Bunga. It's just Jasiri.”

“Yep. And she is on our side, now.”

“Oh! Ooh!” Pinkie giggled. “I get it now.”

“What?”

“She is in the Pride Lands now, even though she normally lives in the Outlands. You just made a borderline joke there!”

Twilight herself giggled along with Fuli. “Yes, I did didn’t I.”

“How about that.”

“Scared you?” Jasiri asked the lion she had just pounced on.

“You wish. If I wanted a sudden scare I’d just ask Pinkie to do it.”

“Hi!” Pinkie happily greeted while suddenly appearing before which caught them both by surprise.

“See?”

“Hello, Pinkie. Good to see you again. It’s been a while.” Jasiri greeted with a hug before turning to the others. “So, Kion, Twilight. Is that how you start every morning? Taking on crocs and hyena at the same time?”

“Along with jackals going off on their own while others are busy.” Kyoga added with a weary sigh. “Which considering they have been doing that every morning it’s definitely the case nowadays.”

“Along with every afternoon.” Ono added. “At least the vultures weren’t around today.”

“I've noticed.” Jasiri commented. “The hyenas, crocs, jackals, vultures. They all seem to be working together lately. What's going on, Kion, Twilight?”

Twilight moved to answer her question honestly. “Scar is what’s going on.”

“Scar?” Jasiri asked before laughing at the moment. “I know all about the legend of Scar. I am a hyena after all.”

Kion shook his head to assert otherwise. “It's not just a legend, Jasiri. Not anymore. Scar's back. He appears to Janja and the others inside the volcano. He's behind these attacks. Sorry I didn't tell you sooner.”

Jasiri was quick to forgive him understanding that they haven’t stayed in touch long enough to make time for that. “Don't be. I know now. But I'll need to warn my clan.”

“If you want I could ask for your clan to stay here in the Pride Lands. Until we defeat Scar.” Kion then offered.

“If not there is also Equestria.” Twilight chimed in.

“Asante, Kion, Twilight. Thank you.” Jasiri gratefully returned before moving to decline the offer. “But we can't abandon our home.”

“You sure?” Beshte asked.

“Nobody's safe in the Outlands now that Scar's back.” Fuli pointed out.

“Especially considering that Kinyonga herself narrowly got herself killed by Scar once.” Fluttershy also brought up.

“And trust me when I tell you that Scar is not someone you want to be anywhere near if you’re on his bad side.” Starlight added while speaking from experience. “One time when the hyenas failed to kill Beshte and Applejack, Scar really let them have it by eviscerating them in a fiery rage. And another time after turning on him and helping Twilight and Kinyonga escape he nearly killed me. I had to be prepared and use a duplicate of myself to dodge dealing with death there.” Even from today, Starlight herself could remember that very moment when an angry Scar himself dealt with the hyenas after their first failure.

“One simple task is all I ask of you hyenas and not only did you fail at it you BUCKING fouled it up!” Scar angrily berated the terrified trio huddled together at the cliff side from a safe distance to avoid being burned by the rising flames from the volcano and instead pushed roughly downwards and away from from the edge.

“We’re sorry, Scar. We don’t know how we managed to allow that to happen.” Janja could only say as he apologized for his inexcusable failure while he and others moved to walk back up the cliffside.

“I don’t either. And the only thing I can say right now is, you and your clan better step it up going forward unless you all want to serve yourselves as a replacement. Is that understood, Janja?”

“Yes, Scar.” Janja emitted a terrified gulp in response.

“Good. Now get out.”

Janja and his clan were quick to scurry their tails on out of here, but not without briefly stopping when Cheezi and Chungu felt the need to ask this.

“So just out of curiosity….”

“...Does this mean we’re not going to get to eat anything we’d like?”

“OUT!”

The three hyenas all got the heck out of dodge immediately.

“You just had to ask him that now?”

“What? We were hungry.”

“And we still are,”

“Ugh.”

Starlight who along with Ushari looked on at seeing this violent outburst could only look on feeling terrified herself to the point she made a personal vow not to report any failures going forward even upon finding out that Janja and his clan failed to take care of Jasiri and her clan. Something that she personally left out when recalling said memory today with the same nervous look on her face.

Even with the descriptive warning in light, Jasiri remained sure they can take their chances. “I think we can hold our own. Besides, I have a better idea. Come on.” Jasiri then led the way on towards her home in the Outlands, one where Scar himself never bothered to look at.

Along the way. Starlight moved to ask her friends in the Lion and Pony Guard a certain question on her mind. “So is they any other reason why Jasiri won’t take up the offer to live in safer territory even with having every reason to? Or she is somehow really stubborn inside?”

“Not unnecessarily.” Twilight answered. “It’s just one of things of having a difficult time moving on to a different home when one has been accustomed to it for a while. I mean I wouldn’t blame her considering it took me quite a while to get adjusted to my new castle after my old one got destroyed.”

“Really?” Twilight nodded. “Oh, I’m sorry to hear that.”

“And not only that…” Kion then said next. “...it’s also a matter of the fact that my dad himself isn’t fond of hyenas, especially considering that other hyenas who used to live here happened to help Scar take over the Pride Lands, years ago. Even when he got to met her briefly after saving Kyoga from Zira and her clan, he still wasn’t keen on enjoying hyenas for company even when she displayed she isn’t like the hyenas he dealt with back then.”

“Phew.” Simba sighed to himself just after seeing to it that Zira and her followers have retreated for now. “I’m glad that’s over with.”

“Asante, Kion. You too your majesty.” Jasiri thanked just when passing by.

“You’re welcome, Jasiri.” Kion kindly returned.

“Kiom.” Simba spoke up upon seeing their interaction together. “This is your friend in the Outlands?”

“Yeah, remember. The good hyena I told you about earlier.” Kion returned while trying to understand why his father is looking on like he is playing with fire here.

Simba could barely mask his dislike towards the hyena before moving to walk by his son. But not without. “Kion…” He motioned to pull his son aside for a quick word. “...while I greatly respect you wanting to advocate for your friends. I don’t feel comfortable with you being around this new friend of yours.”

“Huh?” Kion returned feeling confused by what he just said. “But Dad, I said earlier she’s a friend of mine not an enemy. She doesn’t bite nor wants to if that’s what you’re thinking.”

“Yes, I do see that. But you must understand that I don’t see it that way. Because said hyenas when I was young actually helped Scar take over the Pride Lands and tried to kill me at one point when I couldn’t fight back.” Simba then explained to his son. “Even if there are ones that are willing to stand by your side it doesn’t guarantee they’ll turn on you if you manage to pick the wrong bone with them. And that’s exactly how Scar met his end.”

“But I thought he died while accidentally flying into the fire at Pride Rock?” Kion asked now confused with this revelation in light. “That’s what the stories and paintings said, right?”

“Right, but that’s mainly because no one else saw nor witnessed what had really happened between them. Given my earlier fight and confrontation with Scar at that moment, I was the only one who managed to find out and see what had really happened to him in the end.”

“But still, Dad.” Kion spoke up still trying to assert his point. “Jasiri is not like the hyenas you’ve faced before. She’s about my age unlike the ones you’ve faced off against in the past. Even though we’re different on the outside, on the inside we’re the same, or as Jasiri would put it “Sisi Ni Sawa.”

“You and Jasiri are the same?”

“Yeah, Dad. At least thank her for helping me out when I got lost here in the Outlands that one time.”

“Okay.” Simba sighed before turning back to the hyena in question. “Jasiri, it’s a pleasure to meet you and you’re welcome for the assistance my son and his friends could provide you.”

“You’re welcome, your majesty.” Jasiri returned like it’s nothing new to her. “He’s just lucky I am the kind of hyena that is willing to help others when needed even when we’re on different sides.”

“He sure is, and for your assistance in helping him back there you have my thanks as well.” Simba then continued as he tries to be fair and firm with what he had to say next. “But don’t think that guarantees a hero’s welcome in the Pride Lands. After all, it isn’t like you managed to save my son’s life from great danger.”

While taken aback a little by that statement, Jasiri still accepted his reasons. “I understand your majesty. Although it would be nice if we could at least be friends going forward. After all, I’m not exactly one of those bad hyenas like Shenzi, Banzai, or Ed and truly mean no harm to you or any of your friends.”

“I wish I could believe that myself. But I just have a hard time accepting that given of what the hyenas before you have done in regards to helping the wrong ruler take over the Pride Lands. Maybe someday, but not today.”

“Very well.” Jasiri sadly sighed before masking a smile for the younger lion. “I better get going home, and it was nice seeing you again, Kion.” She then left and regrouped with her clan, while the young prince can only look on disappointment that carrying on to the present day as Kion finished telling said memory to his unicorn friend.

After hearing that story, it left Starlight feeling relieved yet pity for Jasiri. “If only Simba could see her the same way he sees me now, then maybe we wouldn’t be having this problem.”

“It’s probably for the best now.” Twilight assured it couldn’t have gone any better even if they had wished for it. “And if this works out then it won’t hurt to have someone on the inside.”

“Assuming Jasiri knows what she is doing.” Starlight said to herself to which Twilight looked on knowing and feeling the same way given the last few times they tried their luck on that which resulted in near death experiences and close calls they wish hadn’t happened.

When they got to Jasiri's Watering Hole, Jasiri moved to perch on a tall rock alongside Twilight and Kion before addressing her clan.

“Scar has returned.” The hyenas listening predictably gasp in shock and worry at the very mention of his name along with some uttering “Oh no.” to showcase the dread they are now feeling. “But the Lion and Pony Guard is working to stop him. And I have a way for us to help. Scar may know about me and the little ones. But he doesn't know about all of us. While the Guard is protecting the Pride Lands, we can ruin Scar's plans here. In the Outlands. Together, we can be a Hyena Resistance!”

“Us? A Hyena Resistance?” Madoa asked feeling unsure at the idea itself.

“We can't take on Scar.” A male hyena pointed out. “He’ll kill us before we even try to lay a claw on him.

“I know it sounds scary.” Jasiri acknowledged before reassuring them she has a way to combat his forces. “But this is our home. And we need to defend it. Kwetu Ni Kwetu. Home is home.”

Kwetu Ni Kwetu

From 0:34 to 2:22

She then proceeds to sing to emphasize their importance in this very role even when they are enemies nearby lurking. Sure enough, she got the whole clan to dance and sing along to her rhythm before regrouping with the Lion and Pony Guard who all look on smiling to see they are all onboard with helping them.

“Kwetu Ni Kwetu.” The whole clan said together after finishing singing.

“So does this mean you all are in?” Twilight asked Jasiri.

“Of course we are.” Jasiri confirmed. “Whenever we hear of whatever Scar is planning next whether it’s through one of his follower, Madoa will report you about it right away.” She briefly turned to her friend. “You think you can handle that?”

“Of course I can.” She nodded.

“Great!” Twilight then proceeded to lead everyone back home. “See you all soon!”

“Look forward to it!” Jasiri happily returned as the Guard took their leave.

Upon returning to the Pride Lands, Beshte was the first to speak voicing his liking of the idea. “Poa. A hyena resistance in the Outlands.”

“Sounds like a great idea!” Rainbow said already eager to get to work with them.

“I just hope Jasiri knows what she's doing.” Starlight expressed still feeling concerned herself.

“Me too.” Fluttershy timidly shared feeling the same way. Something that Twilight herself silently agrees with.

“You kidding, Starlight?” Bunga laughed it off like it’s a joke. “She's un-Bunga-lieva..” But when he moved to jump his bones cracked causing him to double over in pain. “Ow!”

“Bunga, are you sure you're okay?” Kion asked once more.

“Who? Me? Of course! I'm fine.” He tried to assert and laugh it off before wincing from the pain of his bones cracking once more and upon seeing Twilight looking on not impressed nor buying it, he relented. “Okay, okay. I'll go see Rafiki. But only to ask him how to swing this stick.” Upon seeing the look once more. “I mean along with getting my back some much needed help.”

“And believe me you’re getting tips from me whether you like it or not, Bunga.” Rarity then chimed in, deciding now is the time to make sure his skills have improved to the point a folly like this never happens again.

Later on, Bunga made their way to Rafiki's Tree where Rafiki himself sees Bunga’s repeated demonstration with Rarity around for company.

“Ow!” Bunga shouted before falling over once more.

“Yes. You do have a problem.” Rafiki noted.

“That's what I said. Every time I swing the thing, I hit my face and fall over.”

“You have much spirit, honey badger.” Rafiki complimented.

“Thanks, Rafiki.” Bunga smiled.

“But, your form is horrible.” Rafiki however critiqued.

“My form?” Bunga complained.

“Yes your form, darling.” Rarity firmly repeated just when Rafiki moved to help Bunga with his back by performing a stretch that helped make his bones stop cracking and feel better.

“Ooh! That's better.” Bunga smiled now feeling the back pains are now gone. “Hey, does this mean my form's better too?”

“Not even close.” Rarity shook her head. “Form cannot be so easily fixed. In order to master it you must learn balance, and technique.” She proceeded to display said techniques in her moves to perfection.

“Exactly!” Rafiki agreed while smiling in approval with the unicorn’s skills. “And if you wish to want to master it, you need to study closely.” He then motioned of Bunga to move closer. “Come. And watch closely.” He moved to show a move of his own by performing a perfect split. “Backward Baboon Bend. Go!”

Bunga moved to try to replicate it, only to suffer another repeat. “No! Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow!”

At the same time despite finding the moves a little cringe-worthy Rarity managed to perform the technique flawlessly.

“Spinning Scorpion Sweep. One of my favorites.” Rafiki spun his staff around before using it to sweep the honey badger off of his feet. He then performed another technique of his own. “Prancing Porcupine Pose. Go!” Bunga moved to do so and for once actually managed to get that one down to form. “Yes! Prance, honey badger! Prance!”

Bunga continued prancing while swiftly avoiding Rafiki sweeping him off of his feet with his staff. And so far, he was gaining more learning confidence out of it. “Hey! I'm good at this one. Woah!” Once more he found himself swept off of his feet again.

Rarity sighed before smiling. “It was still a good start to a good effort, Bunga.”

“Yeah…” Bunga agreed before deciding they need to leave. “Maybe later when I have more free time because I better go see if the Guard needs me.”

“Probably for the best. To be continued until next time.” Rarity moved to follow after him before turning back to Rafiki. “Nice talking with you, Rafiki.”

Rafiki himself waved after them. “My pleasure, young pony. And remember, young honey badger. Practice. The key to good form is to stick with it.”

“Yeah, yeah. Okay Rafiki. I'll stick with it.” Then he realized a joke was made out of it. “Oh, I get it. Stick with it. 'Cause I've got a stick.” Just then he stepped on another stick that bumped in the face. “Ow!” He complained while rubbing his nose in pain.

Rarity smirked in response. “You deserved that, Bunga.”

Inside the Outlands Volcano, Scar now in his fiery form had Janja, Reirei, and Kiburi present, and judging from the look on his face, his overall demeanor hasn’t improved since the attempted siege of the Crystal Empire.

“So in light of the recent events that had happened at the Crystal Empire, now is the time to make progress on taking over the Pride Lands piece by piece. So here’s how we’re going to do it as we make our next move on Mizimu Grove. Reirei, you and your jackals attack from the left side. Kiburi, you and your crocs will attack from the right side. And Janja, you and your hyenas will take the middle. Surely, your training has paid off to the point that this is something you can handle on your own by now.”

“Of course.”

“We’re quite sure.”

“As the best of the best, we can handle them together.”

The three leaders vowed.

“Good. Because I want to be able to send a message to the Lion and Pony Guard immediately to being them back down to earth and remind them that the Army of Scar is not to be trifled with even after a loss.”

“And that’ll we make sure of it, we guarantee it.” Rerei also vowed.

“And believe me when I tell that you as the best fighters we know how to rebound after losing, and when this is all over, the Lion and Pony Guard will think twice before underestimating us.” Kiburi confidently albeit somewhat arrogantly added.

“See to it, Reirei, Kiburi. I want an immediate report after this is all over.” With the meeting over and all three leaders about to go their seperate ways, but before Janja can do the same… “Hold on, Janja. I need you to hang back a moment.” He spoke up wanting a quick private word before he leaves.

“Okay.” Janja nervously returned before turning back to face him. “What’s up?”

Once the other two leaders had left, Scar then spoke of what’s on his mind. “As you know, you and your clan haven’t had the best track record in regards to your success since you’ve been asked to step up to the challenge. So that said, with you taking the middle in this upcoming attack, I want to personally inform you that I expect the very best of you going forward, especially after Sombra decided to have a last second change of heart at our expense.” Scar had to resist flaring up as the memory and emotional wound is still raw to him. Janja himself felt very uneasy as he recalled having to standby as Scar raged after the fallout of said attack on the Crystal Empire which was truly a frightening experience more so than getting disciplined for his previous screw ups. “Surely, that won’t be a problem, right Janja?”

“Of course not! I mean have we ever failed to please you?” Scar’s eyes narrowed in response. “I mean…” He realized what he said. “...I know we actually have more than enough times, but I’m absolutely sure we can’t mess this up this time, we guarantee it, Scar.”

“See to it, Janja. For once it would be nice if you can actually dispose of something when gift-wrapped to you as opposed to playing with your food one too many times. Because I have killed traitors to the crown and I can do the same towards those who dare to turn on me and the last thing I want to do is kill one of my own to set an example for the others should they try the same thing. Is that understood?!”

“Yes, Scar.” Janja nervously and obediently replied.

“Good. Now, you may go.”

Janja was quick to do so almost bolting out the caldera before anything else happened. As if what happened with Sombra wasn’t bad enough, extra pressure has been placed on him in order to ensure victory when it matters. So with Sombra now no longer of help. It has been made clear to him, that he needs to starting stepping up and succeeding in his tasks because Scar is not tolerating failure from him anymore.

Later on, Janja met up with his clan before leading them on over to the Pride Lands. “Listen up, fur brains. I just got Scar's new plan to take over more of the Pride Lands. This time it's Mizimu Grove. He wants us to attack from three sides.” From above, Jasiri spied on them as he reveals said plan. “The jackals will take the left side, and the crocodiles, the right. And, as Scar's favorites, we will take the middle.”

“A three sided attack? The Hyena Resistance will see about that.”

Upon hearing and seeing what was needed, Jasiri raced back to her watering hole where she reported it to Madoa. “Go warn the Lion and Pony Guard, Madoa. I'll get everyone ready here.”

“I'll be back before you know it.”

As soon as Madoa had left Jasiri then addressed the rest of their clan. “All right, everyone. Our first mission as Hyena Resistance. We're going to stop Janja's clan before they reach Mizimu Grove. And here's how we'll do it...”

Back in the Pride Lands with the Lion and Pony Guard…

“I've really got it this time.” Bunga told everyone while perching on a nearby rock. “Backward Baboon Bend.” He proceeded to move and do it this time around.

“Nice.” Twilight complimented. “Another improvement on your skills.”

“Thanks.”

Just then Madoa came running towards them. “Lion and Pony Guard! Lion and Pony Guard!”

“Madoa. News from the Resistance?” Kion asked.

“Yeah! Jasiri overheard Janja talking. Scar's sending a three sided attack to Mizimu Grove.”

“He must be planning to take it over. Just like Kilio Valley and Hakuna Matata Falls.” Fuli deduced.

“Sure sounds like it.” Applejack saw no reason otherwise.

“But Jasiri has her own plan.” Madoa assured. “We're going to stop Janja's clan before they ever leave the Outlands.“

“That still leaves, one…” Bunga then tried and failed to count properly.

“And two sides for us.” Ono finished to which Bunga didn’t appericate.

“I was gettin' there. Two sides for us.”

“Right. The jackals and the crocs.”

“Shouldn’t be a problem for us.” Starlight said feeling sure about their chances now.

“Okay. Thanks, Madoa.” Kion thanked.

“No problem. Now I should get back to help Jasiri. Good luck.” With that Madoa left the Pride Lands once more.

Back in the Outlands, Janja and his clan made their way towards the Pride Lands ready to carry out their part in the attack. “Come on, boys. We'll show those jackals and crocs how us hyenas get things done.”

Unfortunately for them at that moment is when Jasiri and her clan moved to push the nearby rocks over the path they are walking on, causing a massive rock slide than forced Janja and his clan to retreat. Once the danger had passed, Janja tried and failed to climb rockslide that’s too unstable to maintain a solid claw grip on.

“Uh, Janja? Is this how us hyenas get things done?” Cheezi asked.

“No, fur brains. This is how hyenas don't get things done. Now, come on.” Janja angrily returned before doing the only thing they can do by retreating in the opposite direction.

“Actually, it's how good hyenas get things done.” Jasiri commented proudly while watching as they part in the counter plan succeeded.

Elsewhere at Mizumi Grove, the Lion and Pony Guard is already there awaiting for the other Outsiders arrival.

“Ono? Rainbow?”

“Any sign of them yet?”

Their leaders asked of them.

“Not yet. Wait!” Ono zoomed his eyesight on the border where he managed to finally spot them out. “I see Reirei and the jackals.”

“And Kiburi's float. It's just like Madoa said.”

“Okay. Bunga, Beshte, Rarity, Kyoga, Pinkie, Fluttershy you take the jackals.”

“Fuli, Ono, Starlight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, you're with us. Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Shortly after leaving the border, Twilight, Kion, Fuli, Ono, Starlight, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were quick to appear right in front of them.

“Stop right there, crocs.”

“You keep forgetting where the Outlands end, Kiburi.”

“And now it is butt kicking time!”

Even still Kiburi was not about to go out without a fight. “Just you wait, cub and pony. Soon the Outlands will stretch all the way to Pride Rock along with all of Equestria.”

Kion growled in response before tackling Kiburi himself.

Along the way, Twilight and Fuli were swiftly able to use their super speed to sweep the crocs off of their hooves while Applejack and Rainbow Dash were quick to tie them up. In addition, Starlight was quick to send a series of magical beams right at the crocodile leader himself. While he managed to evade each and every one them, he wasn’t prepared for the true attack. The one that knocked him backwards when the unicorn shot him square in the chest before swinging her body weight to punch and spin kick Kiburi away alongside the rest of his winded float.

At the same times the jackals advanced on the Lion and Pony Guard members facing them. Along the way, Goigoi got distracted when he spotted a butterfly flying right by him. And that was before seeing Bunga perched on top of a rock with his new stick staff in his paws.

“Hey, Goigoi. I've got something for you.”

“For me? What is it?” He asked like he is hoping it’s a present.

“Prancing Porcupine Pose.” But much like many of the previous times, Bunga ended up hitting himself with the stick and fell backwards again.

Even still he felt it was an interesting move. “Wow! Teach me. Teach me.”

“Goigoi.” Reirei quickly scolded. “What are you doing? Get 'em!”

“You got it, pumpkin paws.”

But before that can happen Pinkie suddenly appeared right in front of them to protect her friend. “I don’t think so! Because today’s special is a pumpkin pie filled with a jackal filling.” She then quickly spun around like a spinning top before splaterring them all in the face with pumpkin pies.

Then as soon as the pies got off of their faces they were karate kicked then swiftly slapped down by both Rarity and Kyoga.

And before Reirei could do anything about, she was left no time to prepare for Beshte charging towards her. “Twende Kiboko!” She could only scream before being body slammed hard and away.

Kiburi now seeing that this is a losing battle turned to Reirei to make note of this. “The Lion and Pony Guard is too much for us. This was supposed to be a three sided attack.”

“Yes.” Reirei agreed. “We need to tell Scar, Janja and his hyenas never showed. Come on, boys.”

The jackals and crocs moved to retreat back to the Outlands while the Lion and Pony Guard look on proudly with another victory in battle.

Later, Janja has returned to the volcano where Scar has remained since this morning.

“Back so soon, Janja? Am I to assume that's because you've defeated the Lion and Pony Guard easily?”

“Not exactly. We, uh, didn't make it to the Pride Lands.” Janja hesitantly explained nervously and honestly. “We were on our way, but there was a rock slide…”

“A rock slide?” Scar’s tone and voice rose in anger to which had the hyena leader step back upon sensing that anger again. “You let a measly rock slide stop you?!”

“It was a pretty big rock slide?” Janja merely defended with a forced smile which did little to help things for himself.

With his growing frustration reaching a head once more, he roared angrily causing a small eruption in the volcano with the force of the very roar pushing and tumbling Janja backwards and off of the ledge he was standing on.

At that moment is when both Reirei and Kiburi arrived who both equally look frightened with Scar’s violent outburst. “I do hope you have better news than Janja.” He then said to them, actually hoping that was the case.

Alas, they didn’t with what they had to say.

“Without the hyenas, the plan was ruined.”

“The Guard forced us out before we even got to Mizimu Grove.”

“And here I thought crocs were the best fighters.” Scar replied in a rather cranky and disappointed tone of voice.

“We crocs can fight just fine.” Kiburi defended but not without glaring at Janja himself. “But when things don't go according to plan…”

Janja then turned back to Scar who once more angrily glares at him for his failed participation in the earlier attack. “It was just a bit of bad luck, Scar. Really!” He insisted while pleading of him to show him mercy.

It took a second for Scar to consider doing just that as he relented. “Very well. We will try again.” Janja smiled briefly in relief with that decision. “But this time, Kiburi and his float will take the lead. Attacking Big Springs.”

Later at the watering hole in the Outlands, Kiburi spoke to his fellow crocs as he gets them all motivated in their next attack.

“Scar wants us to try again. But this time, we crocodiles will take the lead. So, who's ready?”

“Yeah!” The crocs all cheered all while unaware that Jasiri herself is watching from afar having heard and seen everything that is needed to use against them.

“Then the Hyena Resistance will be ready, too.”

The crocs made their way to the Pride Lands, where along the way they ened up coming across the sound of brustling and cracking branches.

“You hear that?” Before anyone could figure it out, the whole float found themselves plopping down into a pit that the Hyena Resistance had personally set up for them. Said hyenas smirk as they all watch as their little counter plan succeed with flying colors.

Back inside the caldera...

“You let the Lion and Pony Guard stop you again?!” Scar angrily questioned the trio as he appeared bursting into flames once more which had them cringing in fear at the sight. “Reirei. I trust the jackals can do better.” Said leader of the jackals smiled confidently feeling she can do just that.

Inside their cave, Reirei moved to address her clan. “Listen up everyone. Scar ain't happy. Both Kiburi and Janja have messed up his plans. But now it's our turn to take the lead. We're gonna to take over Ukuni Woods. And ain't nothing gonna stop us.” After sharing a laugh with her clan, they all proceeded to carry out their part in that very attack…

...at least before Jasiri and her clan who were already ahead managed to push a giant rock in front of the cave to plug up the entrance, thus trapping them inside.

“What?”

Jasiri and Madoa shared another delighted giggle together with yet another success in their paws.

With the jackals trapped and unable to carry out their part of the attack the Lion and Pony Guard were able to easily chase off the other Outsiders once more out of the Pride Lands.

“And this time, stay out!” Bunga declared as he twirled his stick before accidentally bumping the stick in his face and then fell on his back once more. “Oh!”

Twilight simply shook her head before proceeding to work her healing magic on the honey badger once more.

Just then Jasiri and her clan appeared on a nearby slab of rocks overseeing the border while seeing to it that the Outsiders are far away from it with their leader giggled in delight with their current success.

“Jasiri.” Kion said as he floated over to her.

“Looks like the Hyena Resistance is a success.”

“It sure is.”

“We can’t thank you enough.”

Both leaders returned with great gratitude for what she has done for them so far.

“No need to thank us, Kion, Twilight.” Jasiri returned humbly as always. “We're all in this together now. Actually, it's kinda fun messing up Scar's plans.” She then admitted.

“Heck, yeah it is!” Rainbow was quick to agree with her there. “After all of those close calls it’s about time we finally got some wins under our belt.”

Jasiri along with Kion and Twilight all shared a laughed together alongside a very eager Rainbow Dash for that comment.

While this was going on at the border, both Shupavu and Njano managed to spot out and witness this scene before making their way back towards the volcano where Scar is waiting for them with Janja present there as well.

“Skinks! What news do you have?” He asked of them as they approached the edge of the cliff.

“It's that hyena. Jasiri.” Shupavu reported to which had Janja widen his eyes in shock with the very mention of that name.

“She and her whole clan have been working with the Lion and Pony Guard.” Njano then added. “They've been messin' up your attacks.”

“They call it the Hyena Resistance.” Shupavu chuckled finding the name amusing herself.

With this news in light, Scar turned to the hyena in front of him with a very pressing question he wants an answer to now. “Janja?” He spoke calmly but furiously as the hyena nervously smiled in response once more. “I thought you said you took care of that hyena.”

“Yeah…” Janja briefed looked aside before admitting. “...I might have not told you the whole story.”

“As I recall, you said she and some cubs fell in a steam vent.” Scar then inquired still speaking politely and delicately yet coolly with narrowed eyes. “Was there more?”

“Oh, uh, did I forget to mention the part where the Lion and Pony Guard showed up and saved 'em?”

“Yes. You did forget to mention that little detail.” Scar angrily gritted his teeth visibly livid as he also remembers that Starlight herself left out telling him herself.

“Oh!” Seeing this had the skinks were quick to leave before getting caught in another ugly interaction between the two as Janja himself can only look as he once more expects the worst from him.

“But now you can make up for it.” Scar then said next while still gritting his teeth. “Take care of her and her clan.”

“Oh, uh, sure, sure. Um...” But he still couldn’t help but ask. “How were you thinking I...”

“By playing her own game!” Scar sharply answered while briefly raising his voice. “Go!” He then commanded after returning to his calm tone of voice. “Tell your clan that the plan is to attack Mizimu Grove again. Then, while the Guard is waiting in Mizimu Grove, you'll surround Jasiri's clan.”

But Janja is still confused. “But how're we gonna surround Jasiri if we were in Mizimu Grove?”

“You won't be in Mizimu Grove.” Scar irritably corrected. “The plan is to make the Hyena Resistance THINK…” Said with emphasis. “...you're going to be in Mizimu Grove.”

It was there, Janja now gets it. “Oh! But instead we'll go after Jasiri and her clan.”

“Correct!” Scar smiled. “And, you'll take the jackals and crocs with you.”

“Okay. You got it, Scar.” Janja laughed sinisterly before setting out to do so.

“And Janja?” Scar quickly spoke up in a sing song tone, catching the hyena before he could leave. Once he had his attention his smile dropped into a stern frown as he then coldly warned him. “Don't disappoint me, again.” Janja himself had his ears lowered in fright as he sees now that he is facing a fight he has to win this time around.

Sometime later, Jasiri and her clan managed to get a hold of this information before relying it to the Lion and Pony Guard with Madoa serving as the group messenger to report it.

“And then Jasiri heard Janja say it would be their biggest attack yet.”

“Thanks for the warning Madoa.”

“And thank Jasiri, too.”

Both leaders of the Guard thankfully returned.

“Of course. See you next time.” Madoa then turned and headed back to the Outlands so she can regroup with her clan.

“Well, here we go again.”

“Come on, back to Mizimu Grove.”

The leaders then said before leading everyone on over there.

Back in the Outlands, Madoa had just returned and regrouped with her fellow hyenas.

“Madoa, how'd it go with the Guard?” Jasiri asked.

“Great. They're waiting for Reirei and Kiburi now.”

“Oh, are they?” Janja asked with a mean smirk and chuckle while appearing from behind alongside the rest of his clan.

Seeing this caught them all by surprise as they all returned defense growls and gritted teeth in return.

“We'd hate to keep them waiting.” Kiburi added in a taunting manner while laughing maliciously at their predicament along with appearing right in front of them.

And as if it wasn’t bad enough, Reirei and her pack showed up to cover up the remaining side to utterly showcase they are all surrounded and have no means of winning nor escaping this time.

“That's right. Going somewhere?”

Jasiri now can only grow defiantly as all three groups surrounded them all in a circle.

“Doesn’t look like it.” Scar himself said as he suddenly and magically appeared outside of the circle which sparked a sudden jolt of fear inside the good hyenas hearts upon seeing and meeting him for the very first time. He then proceeded to approach them while using his magic to create a wall of fire and a magical dome around them to personally ensure that there is zero chance of any escape this time.

“Scar.” Jasiri gasped.

“Hello, Jasiri.” Scar returned with an evil chuckle and vicious grin.

Elsewhere at that very moment the Lion and Pony Guard themselves are already there awaiting for the arrival of the Army of Scar who all so far are not appearing on the very horizon from their point of view.

“It sure is taking them a long time to get here.” Beshte was the first to comment.

“I’ll say!” Rainbow impatiently agreed. “Are we sure they're coming?”

“Maybe they heard about my unstoppable move and decided not to come.” Bunga suggested while smiling proudly and feeling full of himself.

“Somehow, I doubt it.” Fuli returned while rolling her eyes in annoyance which surprised the honey badger himself.

“Especially considering they still are bold and brazen enough to try to attack Twilight herself even after scaring them to death.” Applejack chimed in to remind him of that very fact. “Twilight?” She then asked hoping she didn’t strike a nerve by saying that when she didn’t turn to look at her. “I hope you know I meant nothing personal by that.”

Instead, she looked on ahead as she thinks about what and why this is happening with what is really happening now clicking in her head. “Oh, no!” She quietly gasped.

“What is it, darling?”

“What’s happening?!”

Both Rarity and Fluttershy asked in great worry already sensing what’s wrong.

“Jasiri and her clan are in danger!”

“What?!” Ono also realized just when she and Rainbow used their keen sight to take a look at what’s going on up ahead. “Hapana! They're not after Mizimu Grove.”

“They're after Jasiri's clan. And they have them surrounded! Along with Scar himself.” Rainbow urgently added.

“Oh, poop!” Pinkie meekly chimed in already feeling dread in her spine.

“We better hurry.” Kion then stated. “Till the Pride Lands end…”

“Wait!” Twilight was quick to stop him before he could take off along with Rainbow Dash. “Not like this!”

“We could if you let go of us!” Raimbow retorted while struggling to free herself.

“No!” Twilight firmly refused to let go of her grip as she talks sense into them. “We do it like this, Scar will capture and kill us too! And he is not like the other Outsiders we’ve faced before. We need to be smart about this.”

“But how?!” Kion asked now feeling desperate with time running out.

“Yeah, what’s the new game plan, team captain?!” Rainbow also asked equally annoyed.

“With Scar around, we need to call in extra help. Meaning Princesses Celestia, Luna, and of course…” She turned to Kion. “...your dad.” Kion groaned in response knowing full well of what he thinks he is going to say about him helping other hyenas. “Kion, I know what he is going to say, and I know you don’t want to, but we need every advantage we can get.”

“But he was also responsible for not allowing them the opportunity to live here in the first place! You were there when it happened!”

“I understand, Kion. But desperate times call for desperate measures.” Twilight then turned to Spike. “Send a message out to Princess Celestia quickly and have her and Princess Luna meet us at Flat Ridge Rock.”

“You got it, Twilight.” Spike quickly got to work writing before using his breath of fire to send the message as soon as it was properly written.

“The rest of you stand by until Kion and I get back with King Simba and no matter what, do NOT engage with the enemy. We cannot afford to make any mistakes going forward. Is that clear?!”

“Yes.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Understood, Twilight.”

“No mistakes.”

“We won’t do anything without your say-so.”

“You got, Twilight.”

“Affirmative.”

“Mmm-hmm.”

“But...”

“Is that clear, Rainbow Dash?!”

Rainbow sighed before responding and relenting to her order. “Yes, Twilight.”

“Good.” Turning to Kion. “Now let’s go.” The two alicorns then flew off towards Pride Rock together so they can recruit Simba and get him to help the Hyena Resistance.

In a flash of magic, both Kion and Twilight managed to appear on the edge of Pride Rock where Simba just happened to be around along with Nala.

“Kion! Twilight!”

“Dad!”

“Simba!”

“What’s going on?!”

“What’s happening?!”

Both friends took turns rapidly explaining the whole situation.

“Jasiri the good hyena formed a resistance group that helped us gain a head’s up on Scar’s latest attempts to take over more of the Pride Lands…”

“...but after a while Scar managed to catch on to what was really going on and has managed to corner her and her clan alongside his army and is preparing to kill them all on the spot right now!”

“Okay, so why are you both coming to me about it?” Simba asked still confused while Nala looks on like he should know by this point.

“Because we need your help! Scar is there himself too to personally finish them off.”

“I...I don’t know if I can.”

“Look, Dad! We don’t ask you for much, we never have, but this is Scar we’re talking about here. Someone who can and will kill them and us if we try to go in there and try to save them alone!”

“Please, Simba. I know you didn’t grow with the friendliest experience to hyenas. But these hyenas are very different from the ones who have dealt with.” Twilight then implored of him. “We have to save them and we can’t do it without you.” Upon seeing that this approach isn’t going anywhere, she tried something else. “Remember when you once told us the Circle of Life extends to animals in the Outlands. While it may not apply to those who don’t wish to respect it, it does towards those who do, and Jasiri is one of them.”

“But she…”

“She whether you like it or not is one of us. So are ponies who just so happen to lead the first ever Guard consisting of non-lions.” Twilight further reminded. “And this is coming from someone who once told us to be willing to protect those even if they’re not in the Pride Lands.”

“And that someone is you when there was a jackal pup being chased by hyenas before the Kuptana Celebration.” Nala also recalled. “Because of that, that also saved Kyoga herself. And now she is part of the Guard helping to defend the Circle of Life too.”

“I know, but…” Simba struggled with how to defend his case now. “...past wounds are not easy for me to let go of.”

“I know. But that shouldn’t stop you from doing the right thing even if it hurts and goes against your initial stance. Now, will you please go and help save them?”

After a moment of consideration along with the pleading and insistent looks from the three, Simba gave his answer. “All right. Let’s go!”

“Thank you!”

“Gather around!”

The four quickly did so before Twilight worked her magic for a quick teleportation spell to make up for lost time.

Inside the Outlands, Scar and the outsiders still have the Hyena Resistance surrounded with their leader himself circling around them up close.

“How very interesting. To think that this whole time today, the lingering problem and thorn on my paws was hidden inside the Outlands this whole time.” Scar said as he found himself chuckling for a moment. “At least, until now of course.”

“Yes. And you know what, Scar? We’re not sorry we helped the Lion and Pony Guard because you’re the one who’s doing more harm than good like you did before.” Jasiri defiantly returned.

“You know about Scar?” Janja asked highly surprised himself with her current knowledge.

“Yes, for only he can come up with this little scheme, himself.”

Scar simply chuckled once more while gesturing Janja to stop talking before he can pick a needless argument with her. “An amusing spin on things.” He then frowned while getting serious. “But since you and your clan have chose to poke me at the worst possible time, I have to take action against you all for your crimes against me and my army and if you’ve heard about the legend surrounding me, I’m sure you know what’s in store for you all for high treason and illegal espionage. The death sentence.”

“Wouldn’t expect anything less from a lion like you. Not that you cared for the Circle of Life, anyway.” Jasiri returned still not cowering nor begging for mercy,

“Who cares?” Kiburi responded just wanting to get this over with. “Your days of spying for the Lion and Pony Guard are over.”

“So very over.” Reirei sinisterly added with a mean laugh as Scar works his magic to lift Jasiri up by the throat before preparing to off her head off with a magical blade. All while the rest of her clan can look scream in horror along with shielding the little one’s eyes helplessly with what’s about to happen next…

“That's close enough.” Twilight's voice called out getting everyone’s attention as she bravely stood on top of high ground with Kion by his side.

“Now back off of Jasiri's clan.” He then ordered.

“Ah, Twilight, Kion. The fearless leaders of the Lion and Pony Guard. Here to enjoy the show?”

“No. We’re here to save them from you.”

“And if it means stopping you, we’ll do it.”

Janja himself spoke up to scoff at this very attempt and front they are putting up. “Nice try, Kion and Twilight. But even you two can't save the Hyena Resistance now. We got 'em surrounded. And there is a magical dome here to ensure you can’t break it.”

“On the contrary, we’re not alone…”

“...And we have you surrounded.”

To back that up the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard along with Princesses Celestia and Luna, and King Simba all appeared from higher ground all while surrounding Scar and his army.

“Hiya, croccidy-crocs.”

“Surprised to see us, Reirei?”

“Ready to get your butts and tails kicked?”

“Because we are ready to bring it!”

Bunga, Fuli, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity all said while making their appearances known.

While the Army of Scar along with their leader barely batted an eye towards the Guard they however looked on surprised and unsure with the royals here and ready to fight them. Their leader however, saw this as one more annoyance to him aside from trying to comprehend while his nephew of all lions would want to come to the Hyena Resistance’s aid.

“Last chance, Scar. Give us the hyenas or face the consequences.”

“And you better hope your magic is still as powerful as it was before because we’re ready for you this time."

“And don’t even think it’s going to be an easy match this time.”

“Because it’s not.”

The four royals all firmly stated.

“We’ll see about that.” Scar stated in response before teleporting outside of the dome so he can personally handle the alicorns and fully grown lion himself.

Simba growled before leaping down from his position before lunging right at his treacherous uncle, who likewise leaped up and lunged at him too. Both traded claws with each other mid-air before landing back down on the ground. Upon landing, Scar found himself surrounded four ways by Simba, Nala Luna, and Celestia all ready to do whatever they can to try to bring him down. Scar himself isn’t fazed as he has the skill and mindset to navigate through this as evident when he managed to deflect various magical beams and attacks even dodging attempted lungs from each of his attackers in a quick and effective matter.

At the same time with Scar occupied, the Lion and Pony Guard made their move towards the ones in trouble.

“Now!” Kion along with Twilight, Starlight, and Kyoga worked to combine their magic to create a powerful blast hard enough to crack and shatter the barrier of Scar’s dome before lunging and attacking Janja himself. At the same time Twilight along with Starlight and Kyoga worked together to sweep his hyena clan off of their feet.

Fuli herself made a charge down the rocks like stairs before tackling and tussling with the jackals herself with Rainbow Dash to fly right by them and knock them off of their feet like bowling pins.

The sole jackal, Goigoi found himself running and begging for mercy when Ono came flying right at. “Nice birdie, nice birdie.”

The crocodiles moved to charge at Beshte along with Applejack standing their ground and proceeded to charge back at them.

“Twende Kiboko!”

“Hippo and pony!” Tamaka can only scream before getting body slammed and then tied up by the country pony’s lasso.

“That’s right! Both here for the rodeo!” She then tussled and swung them around before flinging in a different direction. “Here they come Rarity and Bunga.”

“You ready for this, Bunga?” Rarity asked with a smile as she got on her haunches ready to bring it.

“Ready.”

The two leaped in action by unleashing their moves including Rafiki’s moves as they proceeded to swiftly take down each and every crocodile in their direction. And it was there that Kiburi himself took an interest in.

“You're mine, honey badger. You too, unicorn.”

“Guess again, ugly croc.” Rarity retorted before ducking the charging enemy’s attempted attack before delivering a powerful uppercut to the throat. It was then followed by Bunga flinging his stick staff into his mouth just before he could try to snap his jaws on the unicorn who simply didn’t feel frightened with what was about to happen.

Among the chaos, Janja having managed to escape the leaders of the Guard for now, tried to use the cover he had just used to try to implement some sneaky maneuvers and tactics of his own. “Let me show you how a real hyena fights.”

But before he could do so, he found himself the unfortunate victim when a crocodile got intimated by Fluttershy’s stare he ended up unable to defend himself from Pinkie giving him a good tail slap which accidentally sent the hyena screaming and falling into the nearby steam vent which was larger than the one Jasiri was once trapped in.

At the same time, Scar continued holding his own against Simba, Nala, Celestia, and Luna for some time. They all each put up some good moves and connected on a few attacks but Scar himself is so skilled and powerful he was treating this like its another workout for him. Soon enough Scar was able to put an end to the fight by performing a spiral motion of paws that allowed him to take out all four of his opponents at once.

By then, their battle strategy in ensuring that the Hyena Resistance had escaped had worked leaving Scar disgruntled with what had just happened. He then made his leave but not without telling the defeated crew this. “Well played you four. But mark my words your majesties, another piece of the Pride Lands will definitely pay for this. Ukuni Woods specifically to serve as an example of your act of treachery against me. Not to mention I want the Hyena Resistance out of the Outlands immediately, so if you were all I’d get to it and get out of here while you still can.” He then used his magic to disappear in a flash but not without marking his territory on the land he swore to take over without them and the Lion and Pony Guard around to stop him.

After seeing and enduring enough, Reirei decided they need to make some necessary readjustments to their current battle strategy. “We need to regroup.” She instructed of Kiburi who still had the stick holding his jaw open.

“You need to leave.” Twilight commanded of the Outsiders.

“Not this time.” Reirei stated in refusal to listen to the Princess of Friendship still focused on their task to do what they were sent here to do.

Kiburi snapped his jaws to finally break the stick as he too refused to back off. “That's right. We're not going back to Scar without defeating the Hyena Resistance.”

“We'll see about that.” Kion stated before locking and narrowing his eyes at them. Like before he unleashed the Roar of the Elders to blast away the Army of Scar sending them all screaming.

After the danger had passed even with the battered bruises the princesses and king had endured, they had just managed to save the Hyena Resistance’s lives from Scar’s clutches. Even though he had managed to obtain another part of the Pride Lands out of it, he still didn’t come out with more blood on his paws. And that was enough to give everyone rounds of applause and cheers.

“Yeah! You did it!” Madoa congratulated.

“We did it.”

“We sure did.”

Both leaders of the Guard shared as the Hyena Resistance all managed to come out from the hiding spot they were guided into while this whole battle was going on.

But at that moment, they heard a certain cry for help from the nearby steam vent. “Little help here?”

Jasiri gasped before making her way to said vent in shock and worry. “Janja?”

Said hyena could only grunt and strain before finding himself about to slid down and fall towards the lava below him. Fortunately and luckily for him, Jasiri had the heart and decency to grab onto and drag him back up to safety before that could happen. Much to the surprised astonishment from the heroes watching on.

Even Janja himself could not believe that she is the reason why he is still alive right now. “Why? Why did you help me?”

“I'd help any hyena, Janja.” Jasiri replied as if he is like a friend to her. “Sisi Ni Sawa.”

“We're the same?” Janja translated still touched by the gesture itself.

“You and your clan don't have to be on Scar's side, Janja.” She briefly turned back to her pack before continuing. “You could join us. The Hyena Resistance, and help defeat him.”

“Hmm, uh…” Janja gave it some thought as it actually seems like he would be better off doing so. But at the same time he then thought about what Scar said he would do if he considered which made up his mind on the matter. “...I don't think so.” He angrily returned before making his leave. “We ain't the same Jasiri.”

Jasiri despite the rejection remained optimistic he come around eventually. “We'll see.” And deep down so does Twilight, Fluttershy, Celestia, Luna, Starlight, and even Simba. While it’ll still take a little while longer, he’ll defintely come around sooner or later.

Unbeknownst to anyone, the skinks happened to nearby and had witnessed this interesting interaction.

“Ha! For a second I thought Janja was gonna join up with them.” Njano expressed to his partner.

“Yes…” Shupavu noted. “Scar will wanna hear about Janja's hesitation.”

Njano laughed in delight. “I can't wait to tell him.” The two then slinked away before they could be spotted.

After the danger had passed, Simba himself turned to Jasiri with something important he needs to say now with everything all said and done. “Thank you again, for coming to me and the Guard’s aid. It really means a lot to us.”

“Asante, your majesty.”

“That said I would also like to apologize for not treating you like a friend I can trust.” Simba then said next with a regretful and remorseful look to match. “I was so caught up in my old mindset that I could never see that you were someone I could trust from the start."

“It’s okay.” Jasiri returned to assure all is forgiven. “Past trauma is not always something to overcome easily. Espeically since it’s something you’ve held onto ever since you were young.”

“But even still I shouldn’t treated you the way I did back then, so that said you’re more than welcome to come stay in the Pride Lands. You and your whole clan.” Simba then offered. “And after all that has happened it is the least I can do now.”

“And I’ll gladly take you on that offer.” Jasiri happily accepted. “Of course until after all of this is over.”

“Are you sure?” Kion asked as if she said no. “Scar knows about your whole clan now. He'll come after you again. Not only that…” Suddenly he realized what she said. “...wait, what?”

“I said I would come to live with you in the Pride Lands, Kion.”

“Really? What changed your mind? After all of that talk about Kwetu Ni Kwetu?”

“I know, Kion. Home is home. And the Outlands will still our home. That hasn't changed. But at the same time now knowing just how dangerous Scar really is along with the fact that we would have been goners had you all not shown up had me reconsider my intial stance. At least up until Scar is defeated.”

“You sure you’ll be okay with it?” Twilight asked to make sure.

“Absolutely.” Jasiri assured with a nod.

“Great.”

With that everyone made their way back to the Pride Lands and Equestria. Along the way Beshte had time to ask one of his best friends this question.

“So Little B? How'd Rafiki and Rarity's moves go this time?”

“Great!” He happily replied. “Turns out the stick was holding me back. Watch. Cranky Crocodile Kick!” He moved to try to replicate it like Rarity showed her earlier only to slip and fall on his back again. “Oh! Guess I need to keep practicing.”

“Indeed you do, Bunga. Indeed you do.” Rarity giggled along with everyone else all while making their way home together.

Later that day late into the evening, Scar himself reappeared in the open beach nearby rocky terrian. Once he arrived he moved to work his magic in setting up a lounge chair along with a refreshing drink and sunglasses to have handy while he tries to wind down by enjoying the sunset right in front of him.

"Busy day in the Pride Lands, Scar?" Zira spoke up to him as she approached the half lion/alicorn just getting settled in.

"A tough one I must admit. Not to mention a long week to month before that." Scar admitted before allowing the lioness to pull up a lounge chair herself so she can sit side by side with him, complete with a drink and sunglasses to go with it. "But I made sure I made my message to Simba, Celestia, Luna, Twilight, and Kion perfectly clear not to feel so sure after we suffered a loss in battle."

"Is this about losing the Crystal Empire or losing Sombra?" Zira asked in concern.

"Both." He honestly replied before venting a little. "We had victory right in our grasps. I even gave Sombra everything he could ever ask for. He was pratically the friend I never thought I would have in years. And he ends up throwing it all right when we were just about to lay claim to it, no strings attached. Well, almost none, at least."

Zira seethed herself as she recalled that very memory. "Yes, it is unforunate indeed. Even to this day I fail to comprehend why he did what he did. All in the name for preserving the magic of friendship and doing the right thing. Or in his words, doing the right thing, making his own destiny?"

"That's what he said before I had to do what I did for his treachery." Scar said before moving to continue on. "And with the additional new recruits around here still have a ways away before they are ready for battle, the army I have near home is what I have to work with. It's not a complete team like before but it's the next best thing."

"Are you sure there is nothing either me or Chrysalis can do to help?" Zira asked wanting to be able to do more than train with their new allies until the time is right to strike.

Scar gave it some time while sipping his drink before giving his answer. "I might have a plan for you both to carry out together later on. But for now, we need to have an extra pair of eyes on the Crystal Empire to keep tabs on Prince Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, along with their infant daughter, Flurry Heart. So that when we make another move on them, we'll be ready for them."

"Okay, that we can do, Scar. Anyone in partiuclar well suited for the job?"

"A job like this requires someone that can get in and out undetected, and worst case scenraio someone than can talk their way out a tight space when caught in a corner. Someone close to them that a shred of mercy in their eyes will have them look the other way."

Zira chuckled before speaking what she's thinking. "Well other than brother of that changeling that defected which the queen would be more than happy to put him up to the task, I think I might have just the one up for the task and it is someone close to family to the point this one can get herself out of the corner no problem."

"And I think I know just who you're thinking of." Scar then said with a listening look and smirk. "Someone else who just so happened to defect at the same time when Thorax did."

"Correct, Scar."

With the sun setting and disappearing over the horizon, both Scar and Zira shared some evil laughter together with a new plan ready to be set in motion while the ongoing war back in the Pride Lands and Equestria drags on...

Author's Note

For starters since today is the day Friendship is Magic all started exactly 14 years ago, Happy Anniversary.

And this episode just so happened to be ready in time for the occasion, since this one definitely needed some note worthy work to make it happen. Mainly of how the friendship and trust Simba has Jasiri happened since it happened off-screen in canon. To which I added a couple of scenes in order to make it happen something that said show sorely missed out on showing.

In addition there were more additional scenes involving Scar where we get to see another reminder of why servitude to him is bad when you fail to which Janja and his hyenas get the burnt of back then along with the events in this episode (largely due to the emotional wounds from the failed Siege of the Crystal Empire still raw in his mind). Not only that, I added in one more scene where Scar has a talk with one of his allies outside of Equestria, as they make new plans in order to prepare for their next big attempt going forward.

Outside of that there is of course of what happens as the Army of Scar continues making more attempts to take over the Pride Lands which all failed until the last one gave them territorial gain on their end. Along with Bunga of course trying to learn how to fight better which goes as well one would expect with him even with Rafiki and Rarity's guidance and teachings.

Fortunately, Jasiri and her clan make it out alive in addition they are now welcome in the Pride Lands along with Equestria with open arms to which they gladly accepted. Which also is helped unlike in canon Scar can actually get them and touch them should they ever be caught again. So it all works out for everyone.

Next up we have Rainbow and Twilight journey to the upcoming Daring Do convention where they find themselves in for another Daring Do adventure along with a very nit-picky fan who has a divided stance on her books so until then stay tuned...