In Disney’s 1998 animated film Mulan, the guardian Mushu was supposed to awaken is the Great Stone Dragon.
After Mulan leaves home, the Fa ancestors order Mushu to awaken the Great Stone Dragon so it can protect her. Mushu strikes the stone monument’s head with a gong, but the statue breaks instead of coming to life. Mushu then decides to pretend that he is the family’s guardian dragon.
This event explains Mushu’s unusual position. He is not the Great Stone Dragon; he is a former family guardian who has been assigned to tend the ancestors’ shrine. His deception becomes the starting point of his journey with Mulan.
The Great Stone Dragon is a statue rather than a living character with dialogue. It is therefore different from Mushu, who speaks, moves, and accompanies Mulan throughout the central adventure.