Jaglon the orphaned tiger is tended by the tiger fairies until he is old enough to fend for himself. As he grows, the memory of their assistance fades, though they still watch over him. Jaglon spares the life of little Flitter, the lizard who vows to stay near his protector and repay his kindness. The tiger accepts his friendship, but maintains he requires no favor from the lizard. Jaglon meets with many temptations, but continues to grow in character and nobility until he decides to leave his home for the Inner Circle where tigers have been outcasts for generations.

Nao the tiger fairy charges Flitter with watching over Jaglon the night before he is to challenge the cruel Avok, the Lion King. Thus Flitter is able to repay his debt to his friend. The next day, Jaglon vanquishes Avok and earns the respect of the forest folk as their new king.