The Lion Guard: A Harsh Conversation

It was a peaceful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling Urembo Meadows.

“How's Mari?" Fuli asked.

"She's fine." Kion answered.

Kion glanced at Ono.

Ono nodded, and took to the sky.

He returned a moment later, and settled down on Beshte's back.

"It's all clear." Ono said.

"Thanks, Ono." Beshte said.

Kion pressed his muzzle against Fuli's cheek.

"I love you." Kion said quietly.

Fuli's expression softened.

"I love you too." Fuli answered.

Meanwhile, Simba had met up with Vitani and Marigold inside Kora and Vitani’s cave.

They were settled down amongst the moss.

“How was the hunt, Tani?” Simba asked.

“It was fine.” Vitani answered.

She watched Mari nestle against Simba’s pelt.

“Do you want to hunt with me tonight?” Vitani asked.

Simba nodded.

“I’d love too, Tani.” Simba said warmly.

Vitani glanced up, and groaned as Maya entered the cave.

Simba pressed his muzzle against Vitani’s cheek.

“It’s okay, Tani.” Simba said gently.

“Mari needs to leave.” Vitani said.

Simba glanced at Marigold.

“Go find Ayla, sweetheart.” Simba said.

Marigold nodded.

She stood up, and bounded out of the cave.

Maya cleared her throat.

“Where is Nita?” Maya asked.

“She’s with Rafiki.” Simba answered.

Maya scoffed.

“She needs to spend more time with Mother and I.” Maya said.

Simba and Vitani exchanged a glance.

“She’s needed most at Rafiki’s.” Vitani said.

“You shouldn’t let her spend so much time away from her family.” Maya said.

“That’s not your decision.” Vitani snapped.

Simba pressed himself against Vitani’s pelt.

“Easy, Toni.” Simba said soothingly.

“Leave now, Maya.” Vitani said.

Maya stood up, and exited the cave.

Vitani sighed, and nestled against Simba’s pelt.

“Are you okay, Tani?” Simba asked gently.

Vitani nodded.

“I love you, Simba.” Vitani said.

Simba’s expression softened.

“I love you too, sweetheart.” Simba said.

He rubbed a paw against Vitani’s cheek.

Meanwhile, Nita had met up with Rafiki at his tree.

She was helping him count juniper berries.

“I’m really glad Mosi visited.” Nita said.

Rafiki’s expression softened.

“I am glad too.” Rafiki said.

Nita moved closer, and nestled against him.

“I love you.” Nita said.

Rafiki pressed a palm against Nita’s cheek.

“I love you too, my darling.” Rafiki said.

“Mosi’s really special.” Nita said.

Rafiki nodded.

“He certainly is, as are you.” Rafiki said.

“Thanks, Rafiki.” Nita said.