//------------------------------//
// Episode 30: The Golden Zebra 
// Story: The Pony Guard (Season 5) 
// by MXCDarkHorse2020 
//------------------------------//


Episode 30:



The Queen’s Visit


As the dry season prolongs on longer and longer than everyone thought, water while a blessing to have when you need it. Though the need has greatly increased ever since the dry season began to the point almost everyone was there once the first party had left. Today it got to the point where a dispute happened between the giraffes and buffalos that called for the Lion and Pony Guard’s attention when the watering hole was starting to dry out nearly. 

“We were here first.”

“No, we were.”

One of the giraffes and buffaloes argued amongst one another until Kion and Sunset both stepped forward to speak up to him trying his hardest to settle the matter.

“Everyone please, stay calm." 

"You all get water but you need to wait your turn.”

“But what if there's nothing left by the time we get our turn?” Vuruga Vuruga argued. “I've never seen the water this low. What will we do when it runs out?”

“What will we do?”

“We all need water.”

Both the same giraffe and buffalo wondered in great worry as Sunset turned to the Lion Guard Leader to do the same hoping he had an answer too.

“I... I don't know.” Kion could only say at the moment. While it would be easier for them to offer the Ponyville pond up until the dry season ends, problem is Makuu and his crocs already placed their reservations for that place ever since the dry season began, so he had find another way to resolve this without causing another stampede there. “But don't worry, I'm sure the King has a plan.” He quickly assured.





Upon this situation being addressed to him in the Lair of the Lion Guard both Simba and Rafiki took a look at the paintings of the past for an answer since this the first in generations that this has happened.

“Surely, I'm not the first King of the Pride Lands to face a water shortage, Rafiki? Did any of the earlier kings find a solution?”

Despite looking around the paintings, even Rafiki couldn’t find an immediate answer nor solution to the problem. “If they did, the paintings of the past do not have many clues.” He replied while making the nearby paintings come alive before coming a particular one that caught the king’s eye. One that depicts a large pool of water in the share of three-fingered hand where zebras, giraffes, and gazelles all are enjoying the generous helpings it has to offer.

“Interesting. I'm not familiar with that watering hole. Do you know where it is?”

“Well, I do know it is not in the Pride Lands.” He replied.

“Well that’s reassuring.” Rainbow sarcastically commented in a whisper to the rest of the Guard.

“Shh…” Applejack hushed. “…I think they be onto something here.”

“Ooh…” Makini spoke up as it looks familiar to her. “I've seen a watering hole that looks like that.

“You have?” Simba asked as she moved to walk up to the painting.

“I saw it in the Back Lands. It's a big watering hole with lots of water. It was part of the zebra herds' grazing grounds.”

“Zebras?” Instantly he knew exactly who’s herd it is. “That must be Dhahabu's herd. I didn't realize there was such a big watering hole on her land. That's our answer.”

Upon seeing that they do have the solution they are looking for, the Lion and Pony Guard moved to approach the king about it.

“I knew my dad would have a plan.” Kion assured everyone as Bunga wasted no time in speaking to him about the potential quick fix.

“So you want us to take over their watering hole for the Pride Lands? You got it, bro.” He then quickly remembered his manners when he saw him giving him the glare for that along with ill-timed paw placement on his shoulder. “Uh, I mean, King Bro?”

“No, Bunga, that is not what I want.” He then turned to the leaders of the Lion and Pony Guard of what he is really thinking about in regards to properly approaching this manner. “Kion, Twilight, I want you both to talk to the zebra leader, Dhahabu. Ask her if she'd be willing to share her watering hole with us.”

“Oh, I guess that can work too.” Bunga said reluctantly.

“Do you think she'll say yes?” Twilight asked. “It is a pretty big request we’re asking of her.” 

“It is.” The king acknowledged. “So ask her if there's anything we can give them in return.” 

“That we can do, especially since the watering hole’s about to go dry here.”

“Desperate times call for desperate measures.” Kion said in agreement.

“Exactly! We need that water. And we need it soon.”

“Of course.” Twilight nodded while respectfully complying with his request.

“Don't worry, Dad, we won't let you down.” Kion assured with a smile before he and Twilight led the team on over to the Backlands to ensure the water crisis is resolved.





Sometime later the Lion and Pony Guard have made their way to the Backlands where they are all trying to be very quiet. Fluttershy-like quiet. Breezies-like quiet.

“Be alert, guys, girls. This part of the Back Lands is leopard territory.”

“So don’t make any loud noises to attract unwanted attention.”

Both leaders cautioned as they made their way by.

Bunga and Rainbow Dash however were quick to dismiss that to the sky.

“Leopards, schmepards. Big deal!”

”We can handle 'em, bring 'em on.”

No sooner than they dared, a familiar leopard appeared from one of the trees he was standing on and gave them a jump scare of their lives with his mighty roar.

"You just had to tempt fate didn't you?" Sunset asked the cocky duo rather annoyed.

“Makucha!” Fuli growled along with Kion as the other adopted their fighting stances.

“Wow, that was fast.”

“No kidding.”

Both Bunga and Rainbow commented clearly amazed even when caught off-guard there for a second.

“Hello, Fuli, Rainbow, Lion and Pony Guard. Long time no see.” He greeted with an eager vengeful smirk before eyeing the yellow and red unicorn accompanying them. "And I see you brought a new friend with you."

"Yep. That's me." Sunset returned without an ounce of friendliness in her tone while keeping her guard up and horn flared up with magic ready to use at her disposal. "Come closer you'll find what kind of "friend" I am."

Makucha scoffed in response at her defensive response. "I can tell she is not a fan of outsiders is she Kion?"

“Yeah, haven't seen you since we kicked you out of the Pride Lands.” Kion returned not interested in his attempted pleasantries not that Makucha or most bad guys they face even care.

“And I'm here to return the favor. You're in my territory now. So get out.” To make his point he attempted to bite both Fluttershy and Ono who both just barely dodged the attack.

Fluttershy whimpered as she slowly backed away until she was behind Applejack and Beshte for comfort while Ono counted his feathers to make sure he didn’t get the drop on them.

“One, two, three, four, five... I'm good.” Ono said in relief.

Seeing this had both the Guard’s Strongest taking action. 

“Hey, pick on somebody your own size.” Beshte moved to push Makucha away from them and into the nearby bush.

“Why don't you?” He angrily returned while emerging from the bush.

“There's nobody my size here.”

“Nor is there a pony not strong enough to take you down one on one, so don’t even think about getting us started.” Applejack further warned with her lasso at the ready when needed.

“And nobody but nobody treats Fluttershy like that!” Pinkie added with righteous anger.

“Easy, Makucha.” Twilight said to try to reason with him. “While we do apologize for interfering with one of your past hunts and for being in your territory right now, we’re not here to pick a fight so please back off.”

“Like what Twilight said, we don't want any trouble. We're just passing through.” Kion added taking the same stance as Twilight.

“You wouldn't want to mess with us anyways.” Fuli further warned. “It's thirteen against one.”

Makucha scoffed in the face of the whole Lion and Pony Guard army. “Ten and a half, maybe.”

Bunga took offense to that. “Hey!” He then turned to Ono before saying. “Oh, he means you.” He looks on annoyed in response.

“No I mean you…” Makucha corrected while pointing a claw at him. “…and her.” He added while pointing at Fluttershy who could only whimper in response much to her friend’s growing distaste for that remark.

“And what about me?! Huh?!” Pinkie demanded while getting right in his face. Am I just chopped liver?!”

“No! Just desserts!”

“Oh!” Pinkie then started laughing. “That’s good.” Makucha tried to bite her and narrowly did so with a yelp.

“Come on, Makucha. Just let us through.” Kion further pressed to make it clear this is his last chance to back off.

Even with everything considered Makucha refused to heed to his warning by making a move against Sunset. “I don't think so.”

"I warned you." Sunset remarked before firing her horn right at the guy's chest to kick start this fight.

He lunges toward the whole Guard and predictably gets his butt handed to him.

“Zuka Zama!” Bunga shouted before leaping onto the leopard’s head.

“Whee!” Before he knew he found himself leapt on again courtesy of the giggling Pinkie Pie. After that he ended up enduring a few punches and kicks courtesy of Twilight, Kion, Applejack, and Rarity.

“Huwezi!” Fuli shouted before knocking the leopard of his paws along with Rainbow delivering a super hard punch to finish him off.

And was enough to get the leopard to relent. “Fine, you win. For now, but pass through quickly. And don't come back.” He warned before leaving.

“Let's go.” Twilight stated while taking lead once more.

“But keep your guard up. I don't trust that guy.” Kion added.

“Me neither.” Rarity said in agreement while holding her head up high in response to his rude and hostile attitude he just displayed. “Apparently he hasn’t lived somewhere long enough to know how manners work around here.”

“You said it!” Applejack nodded while tucking her lasso around her body so she can be ready to use it if needed in an instant. “And here I though the Manehattan ponies at their worst were worse than him.”

The Lion and Pony Guard pressed through the Backlands but it didn’t take too long for them to spot what they think is trouble up ahead when Bunga thought he spotted Makucha again lurking in the nearby bushes rustling and shaking in front of them.

“You're right. There he is again.” Bunga pointed out as everyone got ready to resume fighting again.

"Where?!" Sunset demanded as she was quick to spark her horn with magic to throw whoever is lurking in the bushes again.

“Come on out, Makucha. We know you're in there.” Twilight barked out to who they think is him.

But what came out of the bushes was quite the opposite of what they thought was hiding in there.

“Makucha?

“Who's he?”

Two zebras, one male, one female, curiously and innocently questioned.

“Oh. Zebras.” Fluttershy said in delighted relief.

“Don't worry. We're friendly.” Beshte quickly assured to avoid any more confusion stirring up.

“Yeah, no need to panic and run.” Fuli added.

“Oh, we never panic and run.” The male zebra assured.

“We frolic and romp.” The female zebra added before they both proceeded to do so around the Lion and Pony Guard.

“Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp!”

“Wow!”

“Will you look at that?”

Already both Fluttershy and Beshte were taking a liking to these zebras.

“Dance party!” Pinkie giggled before leaping alongside the zebras too. “Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp!”

But at the same time, Fuli and Kyoga found it even more annoying than before.

“I think I like it better when they panic and run.” Fuli said to Ono standing next to her.

“Me too.” Kyoga agreed.

Sunset on the other hoof was pretty much on the neutral side of the fence on this one. "Okay...that sure is something."

While pleased to see good company greeting them, both leaders moved to press forward with their task.

“Excuse me, zebras? Sorry to interrupt.” Kion tried speaking up to them to no avail not helped that Pinkie’s having fun alongside them.

Twilight wanting to move this along floated up to shout in her Royal Canterlot Voice. “LISTEN TO ME!”

The two zebras and pink pony immediately stopped not even noticing the sheer annoyance from the two leaders.

“Okay.”

“Yes?”

“Please forgive me for that little slip of the tongue there but we're looking for a zebra named Dhahabu.” 

“Can you take us to her?”

“Of course we can.” Both zebras happily obliged to their request in unison.

Five seconds of just standing later…

“Um, will you take us to her?”

“As in now?”

Both leaders clarified more specifically.

“Well, of course.”

“Why didn't you ask us in the first place?” Twilight looked on blankly in response with an arched eyebrow. “Come on.”

The zebras replied before leading the way across the bushes much to the Guard’s utter confusion.

“What's going on?” Fuli was the first to ask before following after them through the bushes they went through.

“No idea.” Kion replied equally unsure of what to say about it either.

"I wish I knew." Sunset replied just as lost as everyone else.

“They’re certainly quite odd to say at the very least.” Rarity voiced her initial opinion.

“But at least it’s something.” Twilight said with their sole goal their primary focus the most important thing to worry about right now. 

“And they’re also at least fun!” Pinkie cheerfully added while leaping around everyone. “Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and…” She stopped when she saw the glare Twilight was giving her. “Right. Now is not for jokes.” She adopted a serious face to show for it. 

“Come on!”

“You ready?” The male zebra asked as they approached their home. “Hold on to your hippos.”

Bunga taking it quite literally grabbed onto Beshte. “Got him.”

“Me too!” Pinkie added with a giggle and squee.

“That was meant as an expression.” Applejack commented with a stoic look before looking aside as they all find themselves meeting with an entire herd of zebras in their grazing grounds.

Fabulous Dhahabu

The zebras all sang and danced together before their leader presented herself to them in her golden glory. Literally because she is literally a golden zebra who sang before them with her glimmering bright blue eyes happy to greet them before moving to frolic and romp with her fellow zebras following suit.

While this was going on, Bunga and Pinkie Pie were the only ones dancing to the beat much to both Fuli and Kyoga’s annoyance as evident by the dirty looks they shot them.

By the end of the song, the Lion and Pony Guard were in stunned awe at the leader’s appearance, especially Ono and Fluttershy who had to be restrained by Kyoga before she can get up in her face and gush all over her.

“Easy, Fluttershy.”

​“Hapana. Dhahabu is a golden zebra. They're incredibly rare. I've never seen one before.” Ono spoke first.

“She's really different and really pretty.” Beshte said already taking a liking to her.

“She's not pretty, she's incredible.” Bunga said already fawning over her. “You are un-Bunga-lievable.”

“I don't know what that means but I'll take it as a compliment. Thank you, little mongoose.” The zebra leader kindly returned.

“Um Dhahbu with all due respect, Bunga's actually a...” Rarity tried to correct her before being cut off mid-sentence by the honey badger much to her irritation.

“Mongoose. If she wants me to be mongoose, I'm a mongoose.”

“Very well, if you insist.” Rarity allowed but not without a huff in response to the backhanded interruption.

Both leaders of the Guard moved to introduce themselves with a bow to her with unfolded wings.

“Dhahabu, hello, my name is Kion and this is Twilight. We’re here with the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard...”

“The Lion and the Pony Guard?” Dhahabu interrupted mid-introduction. “Are you both here to guard me from lions and ponies?” Twilight looked on confused and a little put off while Kion could only return an look to Fuli to make it clear she doesn’t know what’s on her mindset anymore than everyone else. “You know, there aren't any lions and ponies in Dhahabu Grove.”

“There are now. Kion is a lion and Twilight is a pony along with her friends.” Fuli said while eyeing said ponies standing behind them.

“Hmm, interesting though I thought lions were bigger and didn’t have wings or horns.” Dhahbu remarked while said things on Kion’s head and back.

Seeing that this is veering to the sides, Twilight forced a smile before reintroducing themselves “Okay, let us start over. I’m Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Friendship, and the leader of the Pony Guard. And this is Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Sunset.”

“Howdy!” Applejack tipped her hat.

“Greetings!” Rarity bowed majestically.

“Hello!” Pinkie waved her hoof up excitedly.

“Hi!” Fluttershy kindly yet timidly greeted.

"A pleasure to meet you." Sunset casually yet respectfully greeted with a bow.

“How you doing?” Rainbow greeted casually while earning herself a jab to the ribs from Rarity. “Ow! I mean your majesty.” She said with a bow.

“And I’m Kion.” The prince then said introducing himself along with his team. “I'm the leader of the Lion Guard. And this is Fuli, Beshte, Bunga and Ono.

Much like with the Pony Guard.

“Hey.”

“Nice to meet you.”

“Hi.”

“Hello.”

"How are you doing?"

Fuli, Beshte, Ono, and Kyoga politely and casually greeted.

Bunga however pointed out a finger in response. “We've already met.” Suddenly receives a cleared throat and jab from Rarity. “Uh, I mean, hey how’s it going?” He gets jabbed again. “Ow! I mean your majesty.” He bowed much to Rarity’s satisfaction.

“That’s better.” She quietly said in satisfaction.

“Anyway…” Kion then continued. “…we're here for the Pride Lands because...”

“Pride Lands?” The golden zebra cut her off once again. “You came all the way from the Pride Lands? How exciting! Prance with me.” She proceeded to do so while leading the way.

“Whatever you say, Dhahabu.” Of course, Bunga wasted no time in following suit as she lead them towards another part in the Backlands.

“Seriously?” Fuli was the first to express her annoyance before following after her reluctantly but not without pressing the prince and princess of the current issue at hoof and paw. “Kion, Twilight, do we really have time for this? "We need to ask her about that watering hole.”

"Before the whole Pride comes causing a stampede." Sunset added in agreement.

“Yeah!” Rainbow agreed with the others in frustration. “The longer we wait the longer there will be more mouths to feed which is something the watering hole in the Pride Lands doesn’t need. So just ask her straight up now?!”

Fluttershy however spoke up unsure if that’s the best course of action. “Um, do you think that’s wise because I’m pretty sure it’ll sound like we’re more demanding her help than seeking of her help?”

“I think Fluttershy has a point, Fuli, Sunset, Rainbow Dash.” Beshte said understanding what she is saying. “If we get to know Dhahabu, she might be more willing to help us.”

“Beshte's right.” Kion agreed. “We need to talk to her and make friends. Just like my dad said.”

“And certainly what I would do if it were up to me.” Twilight also agreed. “After all I am the Princess of Friendship and Kion is the Prince of Friendship, so let’s try to be patient about all of this, okay?”

“Okay.”

Both the Guard’s Fastest along with Sunset all conceded to their leader’s wishes before pressing forward.

“Welcome to Dhahabu Grove, the happiest place in the Back Lands.” She said while eyeing the many happy zebras forlic and romping around while having a good time out in the open field.

“Wow, Dhahabu. Everyone really does seem to be happy.” Kion complimented.

“Of course. Good leaders keep everyone happy, and in return, everyone loves them. Right?”

“Right.” Twilight nodded. “I grew up with a princess as a mentor and she and her sister are both good leaders.”

“And so is my dad. Everyone loves him 'cause he tries to keep everyone safe.” Kion added.

“Hmm, really?”

“Yes, and that's why we're here.” Kion said deciding now is the most tactful time to try to put down their request. “The Pride Lands have had a tough dry season. We need more water.”

“Oh, that's so sad.” She remarked with genuine pity.

“It is. So my dad sent us to ask if we can share your watering hole.”

Hearing that request of his had the zebra leader looking on uneasy about it.

“Our... Watering hole?”

“You do have one, right?” Applejack asked the very hesitant zebra as she looked aside to which caught the truth seeker pony’s eyes along with Sunset's.

“Well...”

Both Starehe and Raha approached by her side to answer that for her not even noticing their leader’s current uneasy expression.

“Of course we do. It's huge. The biggest in the Back Lands."

“And it would be fun to meet the Pride Landers.”

Both zebras confirmed already liking the idea all open to meeting and greeting new friends from another kingdom.

“Can we share it with them?”

“Please?“

"It would mean a lot to many thirsty mouths in need." Sunset added in an encouraging manner to try to push for the answer they'd like.

“It would make my herd happy. But...” She said with great reluctance.

Figuring that it would come down this, Twilight then moved to allow her to ask them of something in return. “We'd be happy to do something for you in return. Just name it.”

Dhahabu gave it some good thought before answering. “Oh, I know! You can bring my herd a Tamboa plant.”

“A Tamboa plant?” Both zebras standing by her side gasped in excitement.

“A Tamboa plant?” Ono repeated though much more confused unlike the queen’s companions.

“Our favorite food. A real delicacy.” She explained while feeling quite sure it’ll take care of the issue. “But if you don't think you're up to the task, I quite understand...”

“You got it.” Pinkie quickly obliged to the task presented to them. “One Tamboa plant, coming up.”

“Really?” Dhahabu replied highly surprised by that response.

“Sure, whatever you want. Our pleasure.” Kion replied to assure it’s not a problem.

None of the less she accepted their answer before leading both zebras away from them. “Well, okay. Thank you. And good luck.” 

Both Applejack and Sunset let her be but still looking on mighty suspicious back at the golden zebra. It’s if she was trying to hide something from them along with truthfully not wanting to share the watering hole with them. It doesn’t take an honest pony and a pony who used to be dishonest in the past to see something’s up.

“Ono, you know what this Tamboa plant looks like?” Kion asked.

“Well, I saw one from the sky once. But they're incredibly rare.” Ono honestly replied. “It could take us days to even find one.”

“But we don't have days, do we?” Beshte asked.

“Nope.” Twilight shook her head. “So we better get going.”

“Twilight’s right. The sooner we find it the sooner we can get the Pride Landers more water.” Kion said in agreement before leading the team away. “Come on, Lion and Pony Guard.

“Bye, Dhahabu.” Bunga waved in the zebra’s direction before leaving.





With the search for a Tamboa plant underway, both Rainbow Dash and Ono scanned the skies from up high in order to find it faster.

“Any luck, Ono?”

“Find it yet, Rainbow?”

Their leaders asked.

“Not yet.”

“Negative!”

So far they haven’t found any sight of the rare plant.

“Ugh, we've been wandering through the Back Lands for hours.” Fuli was the first to express her annoyance at their so far futile search.

“Oh, well sorry I can’t find a Rarity of a plant so easily!” Rainbow equally annoyed returned before keeping her eyes focused on said plant.

“Come on, Fuli.” Beshte said trying to encourage her to cut them some slack. “Ono and Rainbow are doing their best.” 

“Ono did say Tamboa plants were rare.” Fluttershy added.

“Sorry, everyone, we’re still looking.” Ono apologized before continuing their search. Just then both fliers managed to spot something up ahead. 

“A-ha!”

“Well?”

“Did you find it?”

Both Kion and Twilight asked hopeful they spotted it out this time when both fliers landed before them.

“We’ve spotted a Tamboa plant, but it's very far away. And it'll be nearly impossible for us to get to it.” Ono reported.

Bunga and Rainbow both scoffed in response. “Since when does "impossible" stop us? We're the Lion and Pony Guard.”

“Exactly!” Rainbow agreed.

“I know, but...”

“We'll find a way.” Kion said certain they’ll figure it out. “A lot of animals are counting on us.” 

“Everyone huddle together!” Twilight called out to everyone while she, Sunset, and Kyoga focused their mind on Ono’s so they can pinpoint and teleport to the Tamboa plant. Once they had a clear mindset of the plant’s exact location they both worked their magic in teleporting the group on over there.





Once the group teleported on over there, they all found themselves with a thorn patch right behind them while both Twilight and Kyoga took a minute to regather their energy from the huge leap on over here.

“Are you both okay?”

“I think so.” Twilight replied still certain yet still a little winded from the group teleportation spell. “It’s admittedly a lot harder to teleport a group of eleven on over a large portion of the Backlands that just a simple transportation between Ponyville to Canterlot to the Pride Lands.”

"No kidding." Sunset said in agreement while shaking her head so her eyes stop spinning.

“I’ll say. At least that cut the journey in half, outside of that we’re going to have to transfer the plant on foot up until our magic fully charges back up again.” Kyoga said as she works up the magic to create a drink for both her and Twilight to have so their magic and energy can recharge back up again.

Never the less he was still satisfied that they are taking precautionary measures to rest themselves when they need it. “Good. ‘Cause I think we'll need you at full strength.”

And from the looks of the plant itself a very large green leaf plant with a big pink flower in the center of it they are definitely going to need every ounce they can muster up for the job.

“Oh my!”

“Goodness!”

Both Fluttershy and Rarity expressed in surprise at seeing the plant before them.

“That's a Tamboa plant?” Beshte asked as Kion turned his eyes to the Guard’s Keenest of Sight to make sure this is the right plant they are looking for.

"Sure looks like it." Sunset commented as she too observed the requested plant.

“Ono, you said it was rare. You didn't say it was huge.”

“It looked smaller from the sky.” Ono explained as the exact size of the plant is new to him.

“No kidding! That’s got to be as big as Princess Celestia there.” Rainbow agreed but then added to Twilight. “No offense.”

“None taken. Just don’t let Celestia hear you say that.”

Fuli upon getting the full scope of the plant is left wondering how they are going to handle this while exasperated already by the golden zebra’s request itself. “We're supposed to carry this thing back to the zebras? Seriously?”

Bunga however still remained confident they can do this. “Ah, leave it to me.” He moved to grab it by the leaves thinking he can just pull it out. “Come on, plantly lanty. Here we go.” He tried as hard as he could but the leaves itself were even too strong to be willing to be pulled alongside the heavy plant much to the shaking heads of both Fuli and Kyoga.

“How're we gonna get that thing out of the ground?” Fuli asked. “We’re without magic and we’ve got to carry it a long way back.”

“Not to worry, Fuli.” Applejack replied with an answer in the form of shovels and gardening tools. “That’s where these come into play along with whatever our hooves and claws can dig. Like my Granny Smith would say when life gives you sour apples make some sour candy. Or in our case when we don’t have magic to work with, we do the job ourselves.” She handed some of the other ponies shovels so they can help pitch in.

“Sounds good to me.” Kion said already liking the idea.

“Wait.” Bunga called out while still pulling the plant in vain. “Wait. I've almost got...Whoa!” He ended up loosing his grip and slide back towards the half-lion/alicorn prince because of it. “Digging's good.” He relented much to his friend’s amusement.

“Good idea.” Kyoga dryly remarked.

“Let’s do this!” Pinkie stated while conning construction gear and placing the flower around a perimeter…even though there is no one else around them.

It took some time, but they were steadily making progress in digging it out. While the Lion Guard used their paws to help dig it out, the ponies all used the shovels to help dig it out (Pinkie used her tail as a drill while wearing a hard hat to help dig). But with eleven sets of paws and hooves combined the job got done in half the time it would have taken had it been just the five of them. Once the job was done they all emerged with nothing but a little dirt on their fur.

“Phew! That’s got be the largest thing I have ever dug up since the day I made that prized winning apple for the Country Fair.” Applejack commented while wiping the sweat of her forehead.

One member of the Guard was still doing some more digging.

“Bunga, I think we're good.” Kion called out to him who is still needlessly digging in the hole.

“One more handful.” Said handful winds up getting thrown in Ono’s face by accident. “Oops. Sorry.”

“No problem.”

“You done.” Kyoga asked.

“Yes.”

Satisfied that they can move it, Twilight turned to both the Guard’s Strongest to get them to tackle the next part. “Beshte, Applejack, it's all you now.”

“You got it, Twilight.” Beshte happily obliged as both the hippo and pony both moved to opposite sides from each other so they can pick it off from the ground.

“Ready?”

“Let’s do this!”

Once they were ready they both used much of their strength so they can try to pick it up.

“Twende Kiboko.”

“Come on ya mighty buffalo, move!

After a few seconds they were able to pull it out from the ground and pick it up together.”

“Way to go, Big B.”

“You too, A.J.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie congratulated.

“Thanks!”

“One Tamboa plant, ready to go.”

They both said as they both moved to carry it together.

“Great job, Beshte, Applejack.” Kion also commended. Now let's get that plant back to Dhahabu.

”Ono, Rainbow, take the lead.” Twilight instructed of them who both did as they were told no problem.

But first thing’s first is the patch of thorns in front of them.

“So…how do we get by this?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well considering this is a thorn patch, darling, we’re just going to have to go around them to avoid it.” Rarity answered.

As much as Rarity is right, time is at the essence here. “We don't have time to go around.” Kion shook his head.

“So let's fly over it or go through.” Bunga suggested while moving to futilely break the thorns in front of them away.

Kion still shook his head at the idea “Not all of us have thick skin like you, Bunga. Or wings like me, Twilight, Ono, Kyoga, and Rainbow.” He then thought to himself some more. Come to think of it he’s hardly used his magic at all during this trip. So maybe he could do something about it so Twilight and Kyoga don’t have to this time. “Although…maybe we can go through.”

“Kion?” Fuli curiously asked as he focuses his magic while sporting a red colored aura glowing on his horn.

“Are you going to use the Roar?” Bunga eagerly asked.

"No." Sunset replied as she worked her magic to match what Kion's doing. "Just watch and learn, my friend."

“Shh.” Rarity hushed as they watched both Kion and Sunset work their magic into creating a powerful wave in blade shaped so they can clear a straight pathway for them cross.

“Follow me, everybody.” He told everyone before leading the way for them to get by the thorn patch safely.

“Poa!”

“Wow! Look at that!” 

Both Beshte and Rarity spoke very amazed with what they just did along with everyone else.

“Come on!” Kion called out to them while pressing forward up until the straight line path reached it’s end and they were all safely across the field without any thorns up their sides, literally.

Once they were all safely across, they all wasted no time complimenting the young lion and unicorn of magic themselves.

“All right!”

“Way to go, Kion! You too Sunset!”

Both Rainbow and Pinkie cheered.

“Nice job, Kion, Sunset!” 

“That was Un-Bunga-lievable.”

Fuli and Bunga complimented.

“I know!” Twilight proudly commented with an equally proud smile. “I taught him!”

“Me too!” Kyoga said feeling the same way. “Along with how to concentrate and focus that energy into his magic.”

"Along with having someone who taught me those moves...at least before moving away for a while." Sunset proudly yet awkwardly added.





Next up as part of their journey they moved to cross the rocky terrain of the Backlands accompanied with a narrow path for them to walk across.

“Ono, Rainbow, are you sure this is the only way?” Kion asked.

“Unfortunately, yes.”

“Though I wish we had enough magic to just teleport our way on over to the Golden Zebra.”

Both their path guides replied. If only a group teleportation was doable at this point but all four magic users needed the energy to at least be able to walk around, be ready to fight and defend themselves, and be able to get home no problem so they had to transfer the plant on foot.

Beshte and Applejack were the most nervous since they were both carrying the plant together and having a hard time keeping their balance on the dangerously narrow pathway.

“Twende Kiboko. Twende Kiboko. Twende Kiboko."

“Easy. Easy. Easy.”

“Beshte…”

“Applejack…you okay?”

Both Ono and Rainbow asked in concern.

“Yeah, I guess.” Beshte replied while stuttering.

“It’s a lot harder when carrying a heavy plant that’s wider than the path itself.” Applejack added as the rocks on the very edges started to give away at certain areas.

“Not to worry A.J., we got your back!” Pinkie quickly assured while staying close to them so they don’t fall. “If something’s about to happen my Pinkie sense will detect it!”

“Yeah, Big B. It's easy, see?” Bunga demonstrated his point by effortlessly walking backwards.

“Careful, Little B.”

“I don’t reckon that’s a good idea!”

Both Beshte and Applejack cautioned. Since this path is filled with twists and turns they really need to look where they are going.

“Bunga!” Pinkie said while shuddering due to her Pinkie Sense. “Stop!”

“Don't worry about me, I'm fine. Hakuna Matata... Ah!” He ended up losing his balance when he stumbled upon a cliff edge he didn’t see.

“Bunga!” Kion exclaimed while everyone else all looked on in horror when it seemed like he was going to fall.

Fuli was however was quick to ensure that was not about to happen even if he greatly annoys her. 

“Huwezi.” 

She quickly rushed over and pulled him away from the ledge and tossed him aside to safety.

“Thanks, Fuli.” Bunga gratefully said to his savior. “For a second there, I thought I was one gone mongoose.”

“Hakuna Matata, Bunga.” Fuli returned as it’s no trouble at all as no matter what they’re friends through and through.

“Though you might want to walk forward with your head up ahead.” Rarity advised before whisking him on forward with her magic so they can all get out of this potential death trap before anything happens.





Later back at Dhahabu Grove, every zebra there is doing a dance with their hooves along with their leader before she moved to prance ahead of them.

“We love you, Dhahabu!” Two zebras cheered in her direction.

“And I love you, my zebras.” She happily returned before it turned into a scream of sudden shock when she saw the plant itself arrive before her very eyes with the rest of the zebras all gasped in surprise upon seeing it.

“Let me guess. Now you're gonna panic and run.

Both Starehe and Raha said otherwise.

“Why would we do that?”

“We're just surprised to see a walking Tamboa plant.”

“That’s not the plant walking by itself silly.” Pinkie shook her head.

“It's Beshte and Applejack doing the walking, see?” Bunga pointed out as said hippo and pony emerged from underneath the plant once they had finally reached a good stopping point to put it down.

“Okay, Dhahabu. One Tamboa plant, as requested.” Kion happy reported with their request a success.

The golden zebra however was left stunned rather than pleasantly surprised to see that they actually did it. “I... I never thought you'd actually find one.” She admitted.

“Sorry, what?” Applejack sternly asked.

“You mean to tell us that you never actually expected us to actually do it.” Fuli also inquired sounding a bit angered to hear that this was actually a wild goose chase for them to pursue while she dodged their earlier request.

“I mean, I hoped you would. I'm just...surprised.” She quickly corrected herself but even then both Applejack and Fuli weren’t fooled.

“It wasn't easy. But we delivered our side of the deal so now it’s time for you to return the favor.” Twilight confirmed with a friendly smile. “So if you could show us the watering hole...”

The two friendly zebras were quick and ready to show them the way while excitedly stating.

“We will! We will!”

“No!” Dhahabu sharply stated much to their surprise before turning back to the Guard. “I'm sorry, the deal's off. We can't share our watering hole.”

Hearing this had everyone surprised and shocked by that statement.

“What?”

“But...why not?” Fuli suspiciously asked.

“What do you mean you can't share the watering hole?” Kion also asked trying to understand the zebra’s insist avoidance of it.

"After we went through all of that traveling just to carry that on over here!" Sunset added already starting to get heated herself.

“It's...It's, um, against the rules.” She weakly stammered and mustered up to the point that even her most loyal fellow zebras were confused themselves.

“What rules?” Raha asked.

“The... The, uh, secret rules.”

“We never heard of any secret rules.” Starhe said having no idea of what she is talking about.

“That's because they're secret.” She explained. “In fact, you're not allowed to go to the watering hole either.”

“Huh?”

“What?”

“That's right.” She firmly stated. “Nobody can use the watering hole. That's my decree.”

“Aw!” The zebras all said in disappointment.

“Are you sure?” Applejack asked as she approached the zebra who looked on nervously as she’s realizing she’s onto her. “Is it because this watering hole is so special you don’t want to share it with anyone even after we went through a tough journey just to get that plant there for you and your heard? 

"Or maybe you would want to share it with us when really there is no water in it and nobody here is the wiser to it?” Sunset added while gritting her teeth to avoid losing control of her anger.

“Of course I care about every zebra here.” Was all she could say as she felt cornered by the country pony.

“Well, if that’s true then you won’t mind if both Ono and Rainbow Dash take a look at your watering hole? You know, so we can truly understand what secret rules you have in place so we understand why you don’t want to sharing this here watering hole of yours, huh? 

"Because if we want to understand you calling off a deal when it has already been made, I’m gonna have to insist that you be more honest and specific with us about it.” Sunset sternly added in agreement with truth seer pony.

“Easy there, cowgirl. Just let’s ease off on the hard-hitting questions, okay. You too fire girl.” She attempted to say with a nervous smile. 

But by then, both Twilight and Kion have heard and seen enough to know something is up before turning to both Rainbow and Ono to nod at them to give them approval to fly on over there.

After flying on over there and getting a good look at the area, they both widen their eyes in shock with what they just discovered. A dried up and empty watering hole.

“Hapana!” Ono gasped before he and Rainbow flew back where the others were waiting. “Everyone, everyone...I know why Dhahabu doesn't want us to see the watering hole.”

“Why?” Kion asked.

“Because it's empty.” Rainbow answered. “The watering hole is all dried up.”

Hearing this sparked shock amongst the other zebras including the most loyal duo.

“All dried up?”

“It's empty?”

They both gasped.

“What? No.” Their leader tried to deny. “The bird and blue pony must be seeing things.”

Ono was quick to call her out on it. “I've seen things all right, but maybe they're things that you don't want anyone else to see.”

Rainbow was also quick to get in her face about it in her defense of her friend. “And while I may not be an egghead myself, I know my eyes can see just fine to know full well that you’ve been lying to us all this time. You knew about it and you sent us on that wild goose chase hoping we would never fulfill our end of the deal and that we would ever discover your little secret and save your precious reputation with the other zebras. Isn’t that right Miss, Goldly Stripes?!”

Dhahabu merely tried to laugh it off. “What a funny bird and pony they are.”

But nobody was close to amused nor looking the other eye with the truth clear for all eyes and ears to see and hear.

“Why didn't you tell us, Dhahabu?”

“This makes us really... unhappy.”

Both Raha and Starhe commented with severe disappointment before they led the other zebras away from her equally disappointed in her.

“Wait! Please, come back. We can frolic! And romp!” She desperately pleaded to no avail to the dispersing herd. Upon seeing that she has lost everyone’s trust she is only left to hang her head in shame.

“Not being generous enough sure hurts doesn’t it.” Rarity vocally commented with a frown of disappointment herself as what happened truly goes against her element.

“Yes.”

“So you knew the watering hole was dried up.” Kion asked as he approached her.

“Yes, I saw it a few days ago.” She honestly admitted and replied. “But I don't know where the water went.”

“Why didn't you tell your herd?” Twilight asked.

“I didn't want to make them unhappy.”

“But zebras can only go a few days without water.”

“And there’s also the fact you still managed to make them unhappy anyways.”

Both Ono and Fluttershy pointed out.

“What were you planning to do?” Beshte asked.

“I don't know. I guess I hoped it would fill itself up again.”

"You hoped it would fill itself up again?" Sunset repeated in disbelief at the golden zebra.

“Seriously?” Fuli looked on like she was crazy for even thinking miracles like that can happen.

“And you honestly didn’t think that what you did would end badly?” Kyoga pressed.

“No.”

Kion and Twilight while understanding of her reasons still firmly moved to give her much-needed advice with well-deserved stern words.

“A good leader tells her herd the truth, Dhahabu. Even if it's bad news.” Kion started.

“And when there's a problem, a good leader tries to help.” Twilight finished.

“You're right.” She came to see their point not denying she deserved to be chastised like that. “I just don't know what to do.”

“How about a hug?” Pinkie offered with the biggest grin she could give along with the widest span her arms would allow.

“There’s plenty of room!” Bunga also offered with wide open arms.

Twilight gently had the two stop before they could. “We can do better than that, Bunga, Pinkie.” She said before turning back to the zebra leader. “We'll go to the watering hole and see if we can figure out what happened to the water.”

“Do you think you can fix it?” Dhahabu hopefully asked.

“I don't know but if we can…” Kion replied unsure himself. “…will you agree to share it with the Pride Landers?

“Yes! Yes, yes, yes!” For doing all of that, that was enough for her to be willing to open up that generous heart locked inside of her.

“Lion and Pony Guard, let's go take a look.” Kion said to everyone as he and Twilight led everyone over there. 





“Any idea why it dried up? Twilight asked as she and Kion inspected the dried up riverbank.

“Well, there used to be a waterfall over there.” Dhahabu answered while looking up towards said area. “Could that have something to do with it?”

“Uh, yeah.”

"Definitely!"

Both Fuli and Sunset replied with a smirk that should tell it should be obvious at this point.

“Ono.”

“Rainbow.”

Both leaders asked of them before they both moved to fly up over there.

“Will do.”

“On it.”

They both flew and quickly spotted the problem up ahead before the waterfall area.”

“I see the problem.” 

“A rock slide blocked the waterfall.”

Both scanners reported.

Now they knew what to do from there. 

“Okay, maybe we can unblock it and let the water flow again.” Twilight voiced the best course of action. 

“Lion and Pony Guard, let's get to the top of that cliff.” Kion said before he and Twilight both took lead on over there with Dhahabu the only one who hasn’t followed after them.

“Wait!” The golden zebra called out to them. “That's leopard territory.” She warned.

“We'll take our chances.” Fuli briefly stopped to assure her that they're not worried about facing Makucha again.

“We do it all the time.” Rainbow added feeling equally confident as everyone else.

Seeing this willingness to step into action and brave the face of danger sparked courage in her heart. “Then take me with you.” She insisted stopping everyone in their tracks.

“Are you sure?”

“Um, I don't know if that's such a good idea.”

Both Twilight and Kion were the first to express feeling unsure about that request.

“Leopards usually aren't very nice.”

“Especially Makucha.”

Both Beshte and Fluttershy added to back them up there.

“Just leave it to us.”

“We can handle things from here, your majesty.”

Both Fuli and Rarity assured.

But the golden zebra leader still insisted that she tag along. “Kion, Twilight, you said "When there's a problem, a good leader does something about it." And I wanna be a good leader.”

Both leaders gave each a other so they can mentally decide for a second before returning their answer.

One nod from Twilight as she smiled and was the first to commend Dhahabu for her just displayed courage. “Very well, Dhahabu.”

“Come on.” Kion then said before they all pressed on forward into leopard territory while still not quite certain about it himself.

Sunset herself looked on impressed at the zebra's valor to join in, having been there before when dealing with her own redemption in the past before pressing forward.

It didn’t take them long before they reached the top of the waterfall and approached the blockage in front of them.

“There's the rock slide.” Ono stated upon being the first to spot it out.

“Thanks, Ono.” Kion thanked before turning to the Guard’s Strongest once more. “Beshte, Applejack you both think you can move those boulders?

“Sure thing, Kion.”

“Absoultely!”

“Don't even think it.” Makucha’s voice threateningly spoke to them from the nearby trees up ahead before they could even move a muscle on over there.

Dhahabu gasped when it happened. “That tree just spoke!”

“That wasn't a tree.” Rarity spoke while she and Fuli were the first to get in fighting stances.

And true to their word, said leopard appeared before them and approached them from his hiding spot. “No. It was me. I thought you were just passing through. Now you wanna take my water?” He growled furiously than before still holding resentment from their past encounters.

“We're not taking it, Makucha.” 

“We just wanna move the rocks so the zebras can have water too.”

Both leaders said trying to be as respectful, polite, and reasonable as possible about it.

But even still Makucha still wasn’t having any of it. “You don't get it, I don't share. Now get outta here before I make you.”

“I've got this.” The golden zebra assured both Kion and Twilight before stepping forward trying to pull the royalty card on him. “Perhaps you don't know who I am.”

“Actually, I do.” Makucha replied with Dhagabu briefly smiling thinking it worked until he added… “You're lunch.”

Dhahabu screamed in fright before ducking in cover in time so both Kion and Twilight could quickly knock Makucha away with their claws, hooves, and magic from her before he could sink his claws into her.

“Dhahabu, take cover.” 

“Beshte, Applejack, move the rocks.”

Both leaders said while giving orders to the Guard’s Strongest while the golden zebras quickly does as she is told with absolutely no hesitation.

“You got it, Kion.”

“One mighty drain plug pull coming up!”

But even still Makucha remained undeterred as he had something to say upon getting up to his paws. “Oh, forgot to mention. This time, I brought my friends.”

Said friends, ten more leopards emerged from the tree above them with two of them quickly swatting both Ono and Rainbow aside to the ground after being caught off-guard by their sudden appearance.

“Whoa!” Beshte exclaimed when one intercepted him.

“Hang on Big B! We’ll get him!” Bunga quickly assured while he and Fuli quickly sprung into action before the latter had another leopard intercept her too.

“Okay…” Applejack said as she adjusted her hat and lasso. “…you want to go that way? Fine. Bring it, you mean bull-dogs.”

“Um, their actually cats as in leopards.” Pinkie briefly popped in for a whisper much to the cowgirl’s annoyance.

“Not the time, Pinkie!”

Said leopard tried to swipe at the both of them before Pinkie quickly unleashed her party canon on the leopard and shot him a mile high and away from here with a super happy big grin.

“Out of the way, Leopard. Zuka Zama!” Bunga shouted before trying to wrap his arms around the leopard in front of him. Only for that to be in vain when the leopard simply tossed him away into the nearby tree followed by Sunset giving him a swift and solid kick to the ground from the branch she was standing on. Along flipping around to blast another leopard away and him in the skies screaming.

Twilight moved to charge at the leopard leader himself with nothing but her fully charged magic at her disposal along with her hooves and wings thus forcing him on the defense while Kyoga moved to swipe Makucha repeatedly off of his legs.

While Fluttershy quickly tended to Ono who was starting to come to, she and Ono were oblivious to the fact that one leopard is trying to pull a sneak attack on them from behind.

Fortunately for them, Dhahabu quickly spotted it. “Oh, no.” She gasped before calling out to them. “Ono! Fluttershy! Look out!”

This caught both Kion and Rainbow’s attention after they had just got done knocking a couple of leopards aside.

“Ono?”

“Fluttershy?”

Upon seeing what was about to happen they both quickly rushed over there and tackled them just before they could lay a claw on them.

“Hapana! 

“Oh my!”

“Thanks, Kion.”

“Thanks, Rainbow.”

Upon getting back into action, Fluttershy quickly unleashed her powerful stare on the leopard who tried to attack and was left cowed repeatedly blinking his eyes at the sight long enough for Ono to relentlessly peck at the predator in retaliation followed by Kion ramming away.

After smiling for their successful moment of teamwork they all spotted Fuli and Rarity in a dead-lock struggle with two leopards.

“Hey, leopard!” Bunga called out from atop of the same tree he knocked him onto. “You're not the only one who can jump out of trees. Zuka Zama!” Before the leopard knew it he was suddenly landed on top of his head.

Said distraction gave the opening Rarity needed to put an end to this struggle as she quickly karate punched and kicked the leopards aside to end the fight.

“Come on, Beshte. Applejack You can beat them.” Dhahabu encouraged of them as they find themselves cornered by the remaining leopards who moved to tackle them all while unaware that Makucha has strayed from the fight and has moved to sneak on her up from behind.

Sunset however who did notice what was going on moved to follow after him in secret since Twilight's got her hooves full with the leopard she is currently facing off against.

“Oh no you don’t!”

“Get off.”

They both stated before slamming into the nearby tree to force them to retreat along with the others when the fight is now starting to get too much for them to handle anymore bruises and punches. For good measure, Kyoga sent a wave of magic to send them up the hill faster.

“I think we got 'em all.” Kion said everyone feeling proud of themselves once they had all regrouped together.

“Think again.” Makucha said otherwise revealing himself right in front of the zebra who is cornered even with Sunset's magic at the ready to stop at the very second he tries to pounce on her again much to everyone else’s shock.

"Are you sure you want to bet on that?!" Sunset warned with her horn glowing from behind.

“You guys...I'm starting to think it wasn't such a good idea for me to come after all.” The zebra nervously expressed while literally in the middle of a standstill.

“Leave right now or the zebra gets it.” The aggressive leopard demanded.

“Let her go, Makucha.” Kion demanded.

“She didn't do anything to you.” Beshte protested.

"Lay one claw and or tooth on the zebra, and you're toast!" Sunset further stated threateningly.

“Don’t me use the Stare on you!” Fluttershy warned assertively.

“Take me instead!” Bunga offered.

Makucha himself shook his head in disgust. “Ugh, no thanks.”

“What about me?” Pinkie offered along with a “Please don’t eat the zebra, zebra.” cake.

Makucha simply swatted the cake aside and pushed the pony away equally disgusted. “Ugh, no thanks either.”

“I'm warning you, Makucha.” Kion said making it clear this is his final warning to leave her be. “Dhahabu's a good leader.”

Even while outnumbered, Makucha still won’t heed to his warning. “So? What do I care?”

“So…” Twilight spoke up with her horn still flaring. “…if there's a problem, a good leader does something about it. Right?” She turned to the others with a encouraging and supporting look as she smirked. “Isn't that what a good leader does?”

The others all getting the idea all chimed in.

“Oh, yeah, she doesn't just stand there.” Fuli said.

“No, not her.” Beshte said in agreement.

“She steps up and takes action!” Kyoga then stated.

“Indeed.” Ono also stated.

“Even as a lovely lady she is still a worthy zebra.” Rarity added.

“With nothing but a kind heart and an honest mouth.” Applejack further added.

“Yeah!” Pinkie agreed while raising a pumped hoof up.

“If you were I’d back off before its worse.” Rainbow advised with a sly grin knowing what’s about to happen.

"Because if that happens you're going to be in for a world of hurt." Sunset added with a smug smirk from just picturing what's going to happen in her head.

“Because a good leader does not take kindly to a mean, selfish, brute like yourself!” Fluttershy furiously added with a stern look ready to unleash her Stare on him should he refuse to leave Dhahabu alone. 

“Yeah!” But suddenly Bunga then got confused. “Wait, who're we talking about?”

Hearing all of this gave Dhahabu the push she needs into doing exactly that. “I am a good leader. And this is a problem. And I'm gonna do something about it!” 

She worked up the courage to charge up to the confused leopard who kicked him away from her and onto the nearby rock. She then effortlessly trotted her way up to him without fear and kicked him into the rock slide upside down causing the rocks to break forcing him to flee before he could get caught in a huge wave of water.

And just like that the rock slide broke apart and all of the water flowed smoothly through the riverbed and down the waterfall and into the big body of water down below.

“Dhahabu, you did it.” Kion spoke very impressed with how she handled that situation just seconds ago. “You unblocked the watering hole.”

“I guess I did, didn't I?” Dhahabu returned happily and humbly. Truthfully she could not believe it herself.

“Thanks for sharing, Makucha.” Rarity returned with a smug smile.

"Quite generous of you, honestly." Sunset called after him equally smug as the leopard now standing on the other side of the river snarled in response before fleeing.

“Speaking of sharing...” Dhahabu then said making good on her promise. “The animals of the Pride Lands are more than welcome to share our watering hole.”

“Thanks, Dhahabu.” 

“You really are a good leader.”

Both leaders commended while feeling very proud of what she just did and learned today.





Sometime later the Lion and Pony Guard lead by Kion and Twilight lead the thirsty Pride Landers on over to the queen’s grazing grounds along with her watering hole.

“This way, everyone.” 

“Dhahabu and her zebras have something special to share with you.”

The Pride Landers are gasped in delight upon seeing the watering hole in full glory. To them it is exactly how they imagined it would be a large beautiful pool of water for them to enjoy and bask in.”

“Welcome to our watering hole, everyone.” The queen of the herd happily greeted. “Plenty of water to go around.”

The Pride Landers all cheered in delight upon hearing that.

“This looks wonderful.” The buffalo leader said in delight.

“And I want you all to enjoy it. But first, you have to do something.” The queen then said with the last part with an expecting look on her face.

“Huh?” 

“What's that?”

Both leaders asked in surprise since they had just cemented a deal with her.

Thankfully, her expression turned into a friendly smile as the expectation itself is merely a friendly request. “You all have to frolic and romp!”

“Frolic and romp. Frolic and romp.” Raha and Starhe both cheered as they both did exactly that in the pool.

Vuraga Vuraga was the first ready to join in on their little dance. “Looks like fun, I'm in.”

“Come on, Lion and Pony Guard. You too.” Dhahabu encouraged.

Much of the Lion and Pony Guard simply shrugged before joining everyone else in the water. All expect Rarity and Fuli of course since they’re still not fond on leaping into the water nor doing something what they find it is quite dignified. All while laughing and chanting. 

“Frolic and romp. Frolic and romp.”

“Now this is what I call a party!” Pinkie happily said before leaping and prancing around like a zebra both in and out of the water.

“Watch this, Dhahabu.” Bunga called out from both Rarity and Fuli’s side with Sunset floating nearby on her back. “Zuka Zama!” He leaped into the water while performing a cannonball and ended up splashing water onto their bodies causing the former’s mane to get soaked and straighten up.

“Bunga!”

Both girls exclaimed in frustration while Sunset managed to duck by submerging underwater instinctively.

“Ah, come on, Fuli, Rarity. It's a party!” He urged her to let it slide while floating in the water while playing with his current and new friends.

Said unicorn chuckled in amusement. "For once, agree with the honey badger on this one." She encouraged before swimming backstroke from the edge of the pool.

“Fine.” 

“Very well.”

They both relented with the latter quickly performing a blow-dry job on her mane to return it to its curly state before they reluctantly did what all of the other zebras do. 

“Frolic and romp. Frolic and romp.” They chanted with minimal enthusiasm they can muster up along with the other zebras dancing and prancing along the way as the fun between everyone continues with new friends and friendships made this day with a very valuable leadership lesson learned today.