The Lion Guard: Questioning The Past

Disclaimer: The song Rafiki and Nita sing is from Brother Bear 2.

It was a beautiful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling the Pridelands.

Kion and Fuli were walking together.

"Dad said he had something to show me" Kion announced

Fuli smiled.

"Do you want to go to Pride Rock and see Simba?" she asked.

Kion nodded.

"I'll meet you back at The Meadow" he said.

He bounded over to Pride Rock.

Simba, Kiara, and Rafiki were waiting for him.

Kion bounded over to Kiara excitingly.

He rubbed his muzzle against her leg affectionally.

Kiara chuckled and bent down to nuzzle him.

"Hi Kion" she said.

Simba cleared his throat.

Kion glanced up at him expectingly.

"This way Kion" Simba said.

He gestured for Kion to follow him.

Rafiki led the way to a small enclosed cave behind Pride Rock.

Kion stopped dead and stared at it.

"It's a bunch of vines?" Kion asked skeptically.

"Rafiki" Simba prompted.

Rafiki shook his staff and opened the vines up.

Simba smiled at Kion and walked inside.

Kion and Kiara followed him.

Once they were inside Kion glanced around.

"How'd I not notice this place?" He asked with amazement.

Kiara chuckled.

"Daddy tell him what this place is" she said.

Simba moved over and stood next to Kion.

"This is The Lion Guard Lair, it's the secret meeting place for the members of The Lion Guard" Simba said.

Kion stifled a cough.

"Maybe they need to think about fixing the place up" Kion said.

Rafiki chuckled and shook his staff.

Instantly the dust and dirt evaporated.

Kiara chuckled.

"Rafiki you should show that trick to Timon and Pumbaa" Kiara suggested.

Rafiki chuckled and whacked her shoulder gently with his staff.

Kion bounded around Simba.

"Dad, tell me about Scar's Lion Guard" Kion said.

Simba and Kiara exchanged a glance.

"Go on Daddy" Kiara urged gently.

Simba sighed.

"When Grandpa Mufasa was king, Scar was the Leader of The Lion Guard, and as such was bestowed with The Roar Of The Elders, but the roar made Scar feel powerful and it went to Scar's head. He began to think that he should be king instead of Mufasa, so Scar ordered The Lion Guard to help him take down Mufasa and when they refused Scar was furious and used the Roar to destroy them. But Scar didn't realize that because he'd used the roar for evil he would lose it completely" Simba explained.

Kion blinked.

"Hevi kabisa" he whispered.

Kiara curled her tail around Kion's body.

"The Roar is a very powerful gift Kion, it can be used for great good or it can lead to terrible evil" Kiara explained.

"I'll never be like Scar" Kion declared.

"I'm glad to hear that Son" Simba said gently.

Kiara bent down and pressed her cheek to Kion's.

"Kion, I'm going to be with Belee at Hapana Vally if you need me" she said.

Kion nodded.

Kiara pressed her muzzle to Simba's cheek before bounding off.

"I'm going to rejoin my team" Kion said.

Simba nodded.

Kion bounded off.

Meanwhile Kiara had met up with Belee at Hapana Vally.

"Belee, I have something important to tell you" Kiara said.

Belee glanced up curiously.

"What is it Mama?" She asked.

Kiara sat down, easing her growing belly to one side until she was comfortable.

She gestured for Belee to do the same.

"Belee, I'm going to tell you about Nuka, Daddy and Aunty's brother" She said.

Belee nodded.

"Nuka hated Daddy, He didn't like how much Zira fawned over Daddy, He attempted to murder Grandpa in order to gain Zira's affection and trust, This eventually led to his downfall, Nuka's relationship with Aunty was just plain hatred, Daddy didn't want to tell you about Nuka because he didn't want to bring back the bad memories, Belee  listen you can't tell Daddy that I told you ok" Kiara explained.

Belee nodded.

Kiara pulled her into her paws.

Meanwhile Kion had regrouped with The Lion Guard.

"Everyone, I've found a meeting place"

Kion announced.

Fuli glanced up curiously.

"Where is it Kion?" she asked.

"At Pride Rock" Kion said.

He gestured for Fuli to follow him.

They disappeared into a thorn bush.

Kion smiled warmly at Fuli.

Fuli smiled back and nuzzled his cheek.

"Don't we need to tell our friends about our relationship?" she asked.

Kion sighed.

"Yes, I guess we have too" Kion admitted.

They emerged from the thorn bush and found, Bunga, Ono, and Beshte staring at them.

Fuli facepawed and Kion gulped nervously.

Beshte's smile was encouraging, Ono's intense stare was inquisitive,and Bunga's smirk was amusement.

Kion moved closer to Fuli's side and entwined his tail with hers.

"Fuli and I are together" Kion announced.

Beshte whistled, Ono cheered, and Bunga burst out laughing.

Suddenly Kion heard the sounds of a animal in trouble.

Kion glanced at Ono.

"Ono fly up and see what's going on" Kion ordered.

Ono nodded and flew into the sky.

He was back within seconds and settled down on Beshte's back.

"Ono, What do you see?" Kion asked.

Ono sighed.

"Nothing thrilling, it's just a hyrax stuck in a thorn bush" Ono said.

"Seriously?" Fuli growled.

"That's not so bad" Beshte said.

"We're supposed to rush all the way across the Pridelands for a hyrax?" Bunga asked.

Kion sighed.

"Bunga The Lion Guard's duty is supposed to defend the Circle Of Life.. Even if it means helping a hyrax out of a thorn bush" Kion explained.

Bunga nodded.

Kion turned to Ono.

"Lead the way Ono" Kion instructed.

Ono nodded and began to fly towards the disturbance.

Kion and The Lion Guard followed.

When they reached the hyrax Kion was pleased to find out that it was Sitka, one of Denahi's friends.

Bunga began pulling the thorns away from the hyrax.

Sitka squeaked and began moving away from Bunga.

Beshte stepped forward.

"Uh Little B I think Sitka is trying to avoid being shredded by the thorns" he advised gently.

Bunga thought for a moment.

"Kion use the Roar and flatten the thorn bushes" he suggested.

Fuli rolled her eyes.

"If Kion flattens the the thorn bushes with the roar, what'll you think will happen to Sitka?" she  asked.

Bunga's shoulders slumped.

"I didn't think about that" Bunga admitted.

Fuli scoffed.

"You don't think about anything" Fuli  muttered.

Kion jabbed his paw into her shoulder gently.

"We'll just pull the thorn bushes aside" Kion said.

Bunga nodded and shoved the remains of the bush aside.

He prodded the hyrax in an attempt to make it move.

Fuli darted forward and snatched the hyrax.

She gently set it down and it rushed off.

Kion smiled.

"Come on let's go to the Lair" Kion said.

Fuli nodded and followed him back to Pride Rock.

Meanwhile Nita and Rafiki were in Rafiki's Tree sorting herbs.

"Rafiki, how do you want me to store the borage leaves?" Nita asked.

Rafiki glanced over at her.

"Just roll them up and put them in the turtle shell Honey" He instructed gently.

Nita nodded and bent over the leaves.

"I'm surprised Belee and Kia didn't want to help old Rafiki today" Rafiki commented.

"They're hunting with Aunt Kiara and the other lionesses" Nita said.

Rafiki chuckled.

"And you didn't want to go with them?" he asked.

Nita shook her head.

"I'd rather help you" she said.

She bent over the leaves and began sorting them into piles.

Rafiki hummed to himself as he started counting juniper berries.

"Welcome, magic

Welcome sweet sun ray Love is no secret, Look all around you Welcome to this day"

Nita's head jerked up as she recognized the song.

Slowly she began to sing the next verse.

"Waking up in the light

Of a shining new day Giving thanks to the moon For guiding my way There is no greater gift to the soul Lie in each breath that my body can hold So great spirit Hear my voice, today"

Rafiki and Nita exchanged a smile before joining their voices for the next verse.

"Life is simple and clear When you make the right choices It’s true that you’re here When you find your own voice"

Once they'd finished the song, Nita moved over and pressed her muzzle to Rafiki's shoulder.

"Mama used to sing that to me when I was younger" Nita admitted.

Rafiki gently embraced her before turning back to the herbs.

Meanwhile Kiara and Belee had joined up with Nala and the lionesses.

Belee weaved through the lionesses untill she found Naanda.

"Hi Nada" Belee said warmly, pressing her muzzle to Naanda's foreleg.

Naanda bent down and rasped her tongue over Belee's ear.

"Hello Precious" she said.

Kia was standing next to Nala.

"Are you ready Belee?" Kia asked.

Belee nodded excitingly.

Kiara chuckled.

"She's been excited for this for a moon" Kiara said.

Nala cleared her throat.

"Everyone, I'm sure you realized that Belee and Kia have joined us today, they're going to begin their lessons about hunting for the Pridelanders" Nala announced.

Naanda curled her tail around Belee's flank proudly.

“Don’t expect too much on your first hunt,” she warned gently, "There’s a lot for you to learn"

Belee nodded confidently.

"I'm ready Nada" she said.

Nala began leading them into the Savannah.

"Stay close to me and be careful" Vitani whispered from her spot beside Belee.

"I can do this Aunty" Belee insisted stubbornly.

Naanda padded over to Nala.

"Are we going to hunt at The Owl Tree or The Great Sycamore?" she  asked.

Nala glanced at Kiara.

"What do you think Kiara?" Nala asked.

"Great Sycamore" Kiara answered instantly.

Vitani bent her head to whisper into Belee ear.

"That's your Mom's favorite place to hunt" She explained.

When they reached The Great Sycamore, Nala arranged them into formation.

Belee and Kia crouched underneath Vitani and Naanda's flanks.

"Belee can you scent anything?" Vitani asked.

Belee's pelt tingled. She could smell prey. Birds chattered in the branches above her head. Fallen leaves rustled at the base of the sycamore, stirred by wind or small creatures.

"Yes Aunty" she answered.

Nala was already crouching behind the bush, her belly flat to the earth, peering through the low branches toward the roots of the sycamore.

“Get down,” she whispered.

Belee crouched next to Vitani, Kia and Naanda beside her. She squinted through the bush, wondering what she was supposed to be looking for.

Suddenly she heard the skitter of paws on bark. She froze. Glancing sideways, she spotted a squirrel sitting on a tree root with a nut between its paws. It was gnawing busily, absorbed in its tasty morsel.

Belee dropped into a crouch. Raising her belly and lifting her tail so it just skimmed the leaves, she began creeping toward it, silent as a snake on a rock. She was trembling with excitement; her heart was pounding so hard, she thought the squirrel must hear it.

But the squirrel only carried on gnawing until Belee was so close, she could hear its teeth scrape the nut. Holding her breath, she stopped and pressed her backside to the ground, tensing the muscles in her hind legs.

The squirrel had no time to move. She knocked it from the root, pinned it to the ground, and sunk her teeth into its neck. The warm tang of blood surprised her as the squirrel went limp beneath her paws.

“What’s happened?” Kiara leaped onto the root behind her, her pelt bristling.

Belee  sat up with the heavy squirrel hanging from her jaws.

Meanwhile Kion was approaching Pride Rock with his friends.

"The Lair is behind Pride Rock" He said.

He led his friends to the path and they circled Pride Rock.

Kion ducked underneath the moss curtain and entered the Lair.

Fuli followed him eagerly.

She stood beside him as they observed the cave.

"It's big" she observed.

Kion chuckled.

He swept his tail along her flank affectionally.

Beshte, Ono, and Bunga clustered in behind them.

Meanwhile the lionesses had returned from the hunt, apart from Belee's squirrel, they'd caught three rabbits, two rats, four chipmunks, and two fish, Kia had managed to take down two mice and a wagtail.

They dragged their prey to Pride Rock and deposited it at the fresh kill pile.

Belee spotted Kovu deep in conversation with Simba on The Peak.

She rushed over to them, excited to tell them about her first prey.

Kovu and Simba glanced up and smiled when they spotted Belee.

"Hello Sweetheart" Simba said warmly.

Belee climbed into Simba's paws.

Kovu leaned over and pressed his muzzle to her cheek.

"How was the hunting lesson?" Kovu asked.

"I caught a squirrel" Belee announced.

Simba purred, and Kovu flicked Belee's ear with his tail affectionally.

"That's wonderful Sweetheart" Simba mewed.

"What did you and Mommy talk about?" Kovu asked.

"Mommy told me about Nuka" Belee admitted.

Kovu's head jerked up and he gave a startled gasp.

He got up and after pressing his muzzle to Belee's cheek, he went inside to find Kiara.

He spotted her sitting next to Nala in her nest.

"Kiara" Kovu's gentle mew was more like a growl. “I’d like to speak with you outside.”

The fur along Kiara's spine bristled as She hopped out of the den.

Kovu led her over to their hideout and stepped aside as she slipped in.

He slipped after her and settled down in the moss.

"Kiara, Belee tells me that you told her about Nuka" Kovu said.

Kiara sighed.

"Kovu I had to, Belee and Denahi deserve to-" Her explanation was cut off as Kovu turned to face her.

"Kiara we agreed to not tell them about Nuka, I never wanted them to know about Nuka" Kovu growled.

Kiara's tail slumped.

"I'm sorry Sweetheart" she said.

Kovu sighed as he gazed into her deep reddish-brown eyes.

He extended a paw and allowed her to snuggle into his embrace.

Kiara snuggled into his embrace.

"I can't stay mad at you Sweetheart" Kovu admitted.

Kiara chuckled.

"I know" she  said.

Meanwhile Belee and Kia had retreated to their hideout.

"I'm glad Aunty convinced Ni-Ni to let us hunt" Belee said.

Kia nodded.

"I am too, but I wish Nita could have joined us" Kia said.

Belee sighed.

"She's been helping Rafiki sort herbs all day" She complained.

Kia sighed.

"Belee you saw the way she was when we visited Rafiki after Kion became the Leader of The Lion Guard" she said.

"I know, She's been helping Rafiki nonstop since then" Belee added.

"Belee, we know Nita loves us, We'll just have to accept the fact that she's having more fun helping Rafiki right now" Kia advised gently.

Belee sighed.

"She could have invited us to come with her" Belee grumbled.

Kia ran her tail along Belee's flank comfortingly.

Meanwhile Kion and The Lion Guard were settling down in The Meadow.

Kion suddenly got a idea.

"I'm going to go back to Pride Rock, I'll be back soon" he said.

Fuli brushed her muzzle against his jaw.

"Stay safe" she murmured.

Kion touched his muzzle to her ear affectionally before bounding to Pride Rock.

When he got there, Kion scrambled onto his ledge.

"Grandpa I don't know if you can hear me, But I'm not sure what to do" Kion said.

Kion smiled as he felt Mufasa's spirit embrace him.

" I'm always here for you, Kion" Mufasa said warmly.

"Grandpa, I'm not sure what to do with The Lion Guard, We haven't had any major disasters since the stampede, except for rescuing a hyrax, What do I do now?" Kion asked

Mufasa chuckled.

"The answer is simple Kion, keep patrolling the Pridelands and make sure to keep a eye out for danger my dear grandson" Mufasa advised.

Kion dipped his head.

"Thank you Grandpa" He said.

He bounded away and went back to The Meadow.

When he reached it he found Fuli waiting for him.

Kion skidded to a halt.

"Where's everyone?" He asked.

"Basi came and took Beshte back to Big Springs, Ono's Father summoned Ono for a hunt, and Denahi came to get Bunga" Fuli recounted.

Kion chuckled.

"I guess it's just the two of us" Kion purred.

Fuli curled her body around Kion's.

"I'm glad I get to spend some time alone with you" Fuli purred.

Kion bent to lick her ears.

"I am too" Kion said.

Fuli snuggled against his body.

They stayed like that for several moments before breaking apart.

"I have to watch Ameba" Fuli said.

Kion nodded and started on the route back to Pride Rock.

Fuli watched him disappear from sight before bounding towards her cave.

When Kion reached Pride Rock he found Simba deep in conversation with Timon and Pumbaa.

Kiara and Kovu were laying in their nest.

Kion brushed his pelt against Simba's foreleg affectionally and went inside to greet his sister.

Kiara got up and went over to Kion.

She rubbed her muzzle against Kion's cheek and guided him over to her nest.

She slipped into her nest with a sign of contentment.

She curled her body around Kovu's and drifted off to sleep.

Kion snuggled down next to Kiara and closed his eyes.

Kion was the first to wake up the next morning.

He glanced over at Simba and Nala before shaking Kiara awake.

"What is it Kion?" Kiara asked.

"I wanna play at The Meadow" Kion explained.

Kiara glanced outside at the rising sun.

"It's early Kion" she pointed out.

Kion shrugged.

He grasped her foreleg in his teeth and began dragging her out of the den.

Kiara chuckled and hoisted him onto her back.

They began a race towards The Meadow.

When they got there they began to wrestle.

Meanwhile at Pride Rock Vitani made her way over to where Kora was laying next to a plump vole.

She bent down and pressed her muzzle to Kora's cheek.

Kora smiled warmly at his mate.

"Would you like to share this vole with me?" Kora asked.

Vitani nodded and bent down to take a bite.

She swished her tongue over her mouth to savor the taste of the vole.

Kora bent down and rasped his tongue over her ear.

Vitani felt a faint stirring in her belly, and she curled her tail protectively around her flank.

"How's our little one doing?" Kora asked.

"She should arrive at any moon" Vitani said happily.

"I'm glad Nita gets the chance to become a big sister" Kora said.

"I'm glad too" Vitani agreed.

She leaned her head against Kora's shoulder.

Meanwhile Kiara had joined her parents on The Peak.

She wove herself in between their soft pelts.

Simba and Nala smiled warmly at their daughter.

"I'm so proud of Kion" Nala said.

Kiara purred with agreement.

"I am too, I'm always proud of him" She said.

"I'm proud of the choices he's made for the benefit of the Pridelanders and the a animals of the kingdom" Sinba added.

"Kion has made some wonderful choices hasn't he?" Kiara stated.

Simba and Nala nodded in agreement.

Nala's gaze flickered up to Silverpelt before glancing at Kiara.

"Your father and I are proud of you Kiara" Nala said warmly.

Kiara leaned over to nuzzle Nala.

"Thanks Mama" she said.

She leaned her head on Nala's shoulder and soaked up Nala's love and warmth.

Simba and Nala exchanged an affectionate look above her head.

Sarafina and Sarabi were sharing a thrush outside of the den.

"Sarafina, I'm very proud of Kion" Sarabi said.

Sarafina nodded thoughtfully.

"I'm proud of him too" she agreed.

"He's bringing Mufasa's legacy alive" Sarabi mused.

Sarafina brushed her muzzle against Sarabi's cheek.

Kion and The Lion Guard had met up with Twiga in Hapana Vally.

Kion was bursting with excitement as he greeted his childhood friend.

"Hi Kion" Twiga said.

Kion beamed.

"Hi Twiga" he said.

Fuli cleared her throat loudly.

Kion chuckled as he glanced behind him.

"Twiga these are the other members of The Lion Guard, Bunga, Beshte, Ono, and Fuli" He said.

Fuli stepped up beside him.

"I'm also his girlfriend" she added.

.

Kion rolled his eyes.

A few moments later Kion bounded back to Pride Rock.

When he got there he found Denahi and Belee deep in conversation outside the den.

He called a greeting to his niece and nephew as he rushed inside.

Belee and Denahi smiled.

"I'm sure Kion just finished saving the Pridelands" Denahi said.

Belee nodded in agreement.

"Kion's growing up so much" she added.

Denahi's gaze flickered up to Silverpelt.

"I'm sure Grandpa's proud of him" He mused.

Belee's eyes gleamed with affection.

"I'm sure Grandpa's proud of all of us" She said gently.

Denahi nodded.

"I'm going inside to take a nap, are you coming?" he asked.

Belee shook her head.

"I'm going to find Aunty" She said.

She sat up and brushed her muzzle against Denahi's jaw.

"By Denahi" she said.

Denahi touched his nose to her ear before going inside.

Belee bounded over to The Meadow to find Vitani.

She spotted her aunt sharpening her claws on a tree branch.

Belee bounded over to her excitingly.

"Aunty, How are you feeling?" Belee asked.

Vitani glanced down at her swollen belly.

"I'm fine Sweetie, It won't be long until you have a new cousin" Vitani said.

Belee's tail twitched with excitement,

"Should we go home and get you something from the fresh kill pile?" Belee asked.

Vitani's eyes gleamed with affection.

"I'm fine why don't you go and play?" She suggested.

Belee nodded and scampered off.

Meanwhile Fuli had rejoined her parents and Ameba.

She smiled as she bent down and pressed her muzzle to Ameba's cheek.

Beba and Kesho watched the exchange with affection.

"How was your day Sweetheart?" Kesho asked.

Fuli turned to her parents.

"It was fine" she answered.

Beba padded over to her daughter.

She beamed with affection as she nuzzled Fuli.

Fuli returned her mother's affection.

Kiara had decided to visit Rafiki.

She eagerly made her way to Rafiki's tree.

When Kiara got there she  was greeted affectionally by the old baboon.

"Hi Rafiki" Kiara said.

"Kiara.. Such a pleasure to see you" Rafiki said warmly.

Kiara smiled as she entered Rafiki's Tree.

She glanced at the herbs stacked against the wall.

"I can see Nita's been here" Kiara  said.

Rafiki chuckled.

"Yes, precious Nita was here this morning helping me sort herbs" Rafiki explained.

Kiara smiled warmly.

"I hope Nita hasn't been bothering you" Kiara said.

Rafiki waved his palm absentmindedly.

"She's a great help to old Rafiki" He chuckled.

"Rafiki, Are you going to appoint her as your apprentice?" Kiara asked.

Rafiki sighed and glanced up at Silverpelt.

"I'm waiting for a sign from Mufasa" he said.

Kiara nodded.

She bent down and examined a leaf.

Meanwhile Kovu had joined up with Kora   and Kopa in the Meadow.

He smiled and settled down on the grass.

"Kora, you and Vitani must be proud of Nita" Kopa said.

Kora nodded.

"I'm very proud of my daughter" Kora said.

"She's developing a knack for collecting and sorting herbs" Kovu added.

Kora's tail twitched.

Meanwhile Kion had joined Kiara at Rafiki's Tree.

"Hi Rafiki" He said.

Rafiki beamed.

"Hi Kion" He said.

Kiara cleared her throat.

"Hi Kiara" Kion said.

Kiara bent down and rubbed her muzzle against Kion's cheek.

Kion returned her affection.

"Kiara I need to talk to Rafiki" he said.

Kiara glanced behind her at Rafiki.

Rafiki nodded.

"I'll go back to Pride Rock" She said.

She pressed her muzzle to Rafiki's shoulder and Kion's cheek and bounded off.

Kion approached Rafiki.

"Rafiki, Do you have a dandelion?" He asked.

Rafiki glanced at him questionably.

"I want to give Fuli something" Kion explained.

Rafiki smiled.

"I think I have one in my stores" He said.

He hopped over to the herbs stacked against the walls and begin sorting through them.

Finally he turned back to Kion holding a dandelion.

Kion examined it curiously.

"It's beautiful" He said.

He bent down and carefully picked it up.

He said goodbye to Rafiki before bounding off.

As Rafiki watched him, he felt a breeze ruffle the air.

He smiled.

"Hello Mufasa" Rafiki said.

Mufasa's scent wreathed around him.

"Rafiki, I'm very proud of Kion, I knew I made the right choice when I decided not to let Kiara have his destiny" Mufasa said.

Rafiki chuckled.

"Kiara has a destiny of her own" he added.

Mufasa nodded.

"Speaking of destinies, How's Nita doing?" Mufasa asked.

"She's doing fine, I'm still waiting for a sign from you" Rafiki said.

Mufasa sighed.

"The sign will come, I promise" Mufasa said.

Rafiki glanced behind him at the stacked herbs.

"I hope so Mufasa" Rafiki said.

Meanwhile Kiara had returned to Pride Rock.

She padded over to Vitani, who'd chosen a piece of rabbit from the fresh kill pile.

She settled down beside her with a sigh.

Kiara bent down to take a bite of rabbit.

"Kovu and I are proud of Nita" Kiara said.

Vitani's eyes gleamed.

"Thank you Kiara, Kora and I are too" Vitani said.

Vitani's tail flicked proudly.

Kiara curled her tail around Vitani's shoulders.

Meanwhile Kion had met up with Simba on The Peak.

"Hi Dad" He said.

He rubbed his muzzle against Simba's foreleg affectionally.

Simba's eyes gleamed with affection as he gazed at his son.

He ran his paw lightly down Kion's spine.

"Hi Son" he said.

"What are we doing today?" Kion asked eagerly.

Simba chuckled.

"I thought I'd take you along on the evening patrol" Simba said.

Kion's tail flicked excitingly.

Simba beamed and led him out of the den.

They headed for the border that separated the Pridelands from The Outlands.

As they approached the boundary line, Kion glanced ahead of him at The Outlands.

"Dad, Is this really where Kovu and Tani were raised?" He asked.

Simba's eyes narrowed.

"Yes Kion you've heard enough stories to be able to know that" he said.

"Janja's Clan, and Helga's group live there now" Kion said.

"Watch this Kion" Simba said.

He padded over to a tree stump and lifted his tail to spray his mark.

Kion watched with amazement.

He stepped up beside Simba and lifted his tail to spray his own mark.

Simba's eyes gleamed with pride.

"Good job Kion" Simba praised.

Kion smiled.

Simba led him further down the boundary line.

Kia had joined Nala at the entrance to the den.

"Hi Ni-Ni" Kia said warmly.

Nala bent down to nuzzle Kia.

"Hello Sweetheart" she said.

"What are you doing?" Kia asked.

"I'm just resting Honey" Nala answered.

Kia laid down and pressed her body against Nala's flank.

"Can I rest with you?" She asked.

Nala nodded and pulled Kia into her embrace.

Meanwhile Nita had joined Rafiki at his tree and was bent over the herbs.

She carefully arranged them into a pile.

Nita bent down to count juniper berries.

As Rafiki watched her, his eyes gleamed with affection.

Nita's gaze was intense as she sorted the herbs.

She tossed aside a few bruised berries before placing the fresh ones in the shell.

Then Nita bent over the marigold leaves.

"Rafiki, Mama and Daddy said I get to pick the name for my new sister" she announced.

"What will you name her Sweetie?" Rafiki asked.

Nita glanced down at the marigold leaves.

"I'm going to name her Marigold" Nita said quietly.

Rafiki smiled.

"That's a beautiful name" he commented.

Nita beamed.

She bent over the leaves and began chewing them into a pulp.

Meanwhile Kion had led Fuli to The Meadow and they'd settled down in the moss.

Kion's pelt tingled as he laid snuggled close to Fuli.

He could feel her warm scent wreathed around him.

"I love you Fuli" Kion said quietly.

Fuli bent down and rubbed her muzzle against his jaw.

"I love you too" she purred.

Kion sat up and pulled her into his embrace.

Fuli's eyes gleamed with amusement as She tucked herself into Kion's side.

"Why the sudden burst of affection Kion?" Fuli asked.

Kion shrugged.

"Kovu and Kiara do this all the time, I want to make you happy" He admitted.

Fuli's eyes were full of affection as she  gazed at Kion.

"Kion.." She started to say gently.

He pressed against her flank.

“I’m so happy just being with you, it feels like nothing can hurt me.” Kion admitted.

“Really?” Fuli asked.

“Really,” he promised.

Fuli cuddled her body into his embrace gratefully.

Kion bent down and rasped his tongue over her ears.

Back at Pride Rock, Kovu and Kiara were laying in the entrance to the den talking.

Kovu was telling Kiara about Simba taking Kion on a patrol.

Kiara turned and pressed her muzzle into Kovu's chest.

Kovu's expression was full of affection as he gazed at Kiara.

Moving as one they stretched their necks forward; for a heartbeat their noses touched, and their muzzles brushed together.

Kiara shuddered and tucked herself into Kovu's side.

Kovu bent to lick her ears.

"I love you Kovu" Kiara said drowsily.

"I love you too" Kovu answered.

Meanwhile Belee and Denahi were inside the den.

They were discussing Kion and The Lion Guard.

"I wish Kion had asked me to join it" Denahi admitted.

Belee nuzzled his cheek comfortingly.

"I'm sure he will" she murmured.

Denahi glanced behind him.

He sighed and transferred his gaze back to his sister.

Belee was shredding the moss lining her nest.

Denahi rolled over until he was sprawled on his back.

He sighed.

"Kion's my uncle and best friend, I know he loves me and I trust him but I wanted to be a member of The Lion Guard. I wanted the respect of the Pridelanders" Denahi confessed.

Belee glanced up and purred sympathetically.

She leaned over and pressed her muzzle to Denahi's shoulder.

Meanwhile Rafiki and Nita were clustered inside his tree.

Rafiki was painting a image of Nita on the base of his tree.

Nita beamed as she oversaw Rafiki's progress.

"Rafiki it's beautiful" she praised warmly.

Rafiki smiled.

"Thanks Nita" he said.

"It'll stay beautiful until Nefu comes and messes it up" Nita grumbled.

Rafiki chuckled.

"My nephew can be stubborn. Sometimes I find it hard to believe we're kin" he mused.

Nita purred.

"He's nothing like Mosi. Mosi's such a precious darling." She said warmly.

Rafiki nodded and turned back to his painting.

Nita tilted her head and studied the image.

"How's your baboon troop?" She asked.

Rafiki sighed.

"They've settled well in Babbon Forest, my sister is thankful for a safe place to raise Mosi and Nefu" he said.

Nita smiled.

She nuzzled Rafiki's shoulder and bounded off.

Nita paused at the entrance to Rafiki's tree before deciding to head towards Pride Rock.

Meanwhile Simba was doing a border patrol along the eastern border.

He was accompanied by Timon and Pumbaa.

They were snuffling the ground searching for beetles.

Simba chuckled as he observed them.

"Timon?, Pumbaa? You know you're supposed to be helping me with the patrol right?" Simba asked playfully.

Timon glanced up.

"Simba hunting for grubs is more fun" he stated.

Simba rolled his eyes.

He glanced behind him and sighed.

Pumbaa padded over to him and brushed his tail along Simba's shoulder.

Simba smiled.

"What's wrong Simba?" Pumbaa asked.

"I'm thinking about Kion" Simba admitted.

Timon and Pumba exchanged a glance.

"I'm sure Kion's fine" Timon said gently.

Pumbaa nodded in agreement.

Simba gazed at his friends with pride.

"Come on let's go home" Simba said.

Meanwhile Kora and Vitani were nestled together inside the den.

Kora was rasping his tongue over Vitani's ear.

"I'm so proud of Nita" Vitani purred drowsily.

Kora nodded in agreement.

He bent down to lick the fur on her neck.

"Kora I can't wait to give Nita a sister" Vitani mewed.

"Me too Tani" Kora said.

Vitani shifted so she could press her muzzle into Kora's mane.

When Nita reached Pride Rock she found Kiara stretched out outside the den.

"Hi Aunt Kiara" Nita said.

She bounded over and nuzzled Kiara's foreleg.

Kiara bent down to nuzzle Nita's cheek.

"How's it going Sweetie?" Kiara asked.

Nita purred.

Kiara bent down and grasped her gently by the scruff.

She stood up and retreated into the den.

She padded over to her nest and bent down to release Nita.

Nita smoothed the fur on her scruff.

"Aunt Kiara I could have walked by myself" she grumbled.

Kiara flicked her tail over Nita's ear.

"I know." She said.

She settled down and pulled Nita into her paws.

Nita glanced down at Kiara's swollen belly.

Her eyes narrowed as a thought flickered through her.

Suddenly Nita glanced up at Kiara.

"What's wrong Nita?" Kiara asked.

Nita shook her head distractingly.

"I'm fine Aunt Kiara" Nita  said.

She backed away and ran back to Rafiki's Tree.

Rafiki glanced up with surprise as Nita rushed inside his tree.

"What's wrong Nita?" Rafiki asked.

Nita ignored him rushed over to the herb supply.

Rafiki hobbled after her.

"Nita.. What's the matter?" Rafiki asked again.

Nita glanced at him with a stricken gaze.

"Grandpa.. I need you" she called.

She shuddered as Mufasa's spirit embraced her.

"What's wrong Nita?" he asked.

Nita glanced behind her at Rafiki.

"Grandpa.. What's wrong with Aunt Kiara's unborn cub?" She asked slowly.

Mufasa sighed.

"I'm sorry Precious I can't tell you, You'll find out soon enough" He said gently.

Nita sighed.

"Yes Grandpa" Nita said.

Mufasa's spirit embraced her warmly before disappearing.

Nita turned to face Rafiki.

"Bye Rafiki" She said.

She nuzzled Rafiki's shoulder before bounding off.

When Nita reached Pride Rock, She found Sarabi sitting inside the den.

Nita beamed and rushed over to her.

She climbed into Sarabi's paws.

"Hi Nai Nai" She said brightly.

Sarabi bent down to nuzzle Nita's cheek.

"Hello Precious" Sarabi purred.

Nita curled up in Sarabi's paws.

Sarabi bent down and rasped her tongue over Nita's ear.

"Sleep well my lovely, I'll be right here when you wake up" She purred

Nita closed her eyes and snuggled deeper into Sarabi.

Meanwhile Kion and Vitani were enclosed in The Meadow.

They were enjoying a game of baobab ball.

"Kion I haven't had this much fun in a long time" Vitani admitted.

Kion beamed.

"I love spending time with you Tani" he answered.

Vitani beamed and drew Kion into her embrace.

"I love you Kion" She purred.

Kion nuzzled her foreleg affectionally.

Vitani released Kion and they began wrestling.

Meanwhile Simba and Nala were spending time together in Hapuna Vally.

They were discussing Kion's success.

"Kion makes me proud everyday" Simba purred.

Nala nodded in agreement.

"He's making excellent choices for the benefit of the Pridelanders" She mused.

Simba turned and faced Nala.

He reached over and pressed his muzzle to hers.

Nala's eyes gleamed as she returned his affection.

Simba grasped her scruff and pulled her into his paws.

They curled up and settled down.

Meanwhile Sarafina had joined Sarabi in The Meadow.

They were discussing their grandchildren.

"I'm proud of Kion Sarafina" Sarabi said quietly.

Sarafina's gaze was full of sympathy and concern as she observed Sarabi.

"I am too" She answered.

Sarabi sighed and rested her chin on her paws.

Sarafina leaned over and brushed her muzzle against Sarabi's jaw.

"Aren't you proud of Nita too?" she asked gently.

Sarabi nodded.

"Nita's very intelligent" She observed.

Sarafina pushed a vole towards Sarabi.

"Share this with me" Sarafina urged.

Sarabi smiled and bent down to take a bite.

She raised her head and swiped her tongue over her jaws.

Meanwhile Kion had rejoined Fuli in their hideout.

They were curled up in the nest.

The tip of Kion's tail was tracing Fuli's soft golden pelt.

Fuli arched her back as Kion's body wove around hers.

"I love you Kion" She purred.

Kion beamed.

"I love you too" He answered.

Fuli shuddered as Kion rasped his tongue over her ear.

She curled up and pressed her muzzle into his pelt.

Meanwhile Kiara had isolated herself in Hakuni Woods.

She glanced up at Silverpelt anxiously.

"Grandpa!.. I need you" She called.

She shuddered as Mufasa's scent wreathed around her.

"What's troubling you Kiara?" Mufasa asked.

Kiara sighed.

"Mom and Daddy want me to sing a song for Kupatana" Kiara admitted.

She turned away and began walking towards The Meadow.

As Kiara walked she began to hum a song under her breath.

" Even those who are gone

Are with us as we go on Your journey has only begun Tears of pain, tears of joy One thing nothing can destroy Is our pride, deep inside We are one.

We are one, you and I We are like the earth and sky One family under the sun All the wisdom to lead All the courage that you need You will find when you see We...are...one"

Kiara glanced up when She heard pawsteps.

She beamed when Kovu came into view.

Kiara bounded forward eagerly.

She pushed her muzzle into Kovu's mane.

"Are you ok Kiara?" Kovu asked.

Kiara glanced down at her swollen belly and nodded.

Kovu curled his tail around her shoulders.

"Come. I'll take you back to Pride Rock" He insisted gently.

Kiara nodded and leaned into his embrace.

Kovu patiently began guiding her back to Pride Rock.

When they reached Pride Rock Kovu stepped aside and let Kiara enter the den ahead of him.

Kiara hobbled into the den and crawled into her nest.

Kovu slipped in and curled his body around hers.

Simba and Nala slipped into the den and went over to their nest.

They smiled at the sight of Kovu and Kiara's mingled pelts.

Nala sighed and brushed her muzzle against Simba's cheek.

Simba turned his head and nuzzled Nala's cheek affectionally.

He curled his tail around Nala's shoulders and guided her into their nest.

"Kovu and Kiara have a wonderful relationship" Nala observed.

She and Simba watched Kovu lick dried mud from behind Kiara's ear.

Simba bent down and rasped his tongue over Nala's ear.

He propped Nala's head against his shoulder and they watched Kovu lick Kiara's cheek.

Nala shifted and leaned her head on Simba's shoulder.

They glanced up and smiled as Kion entered the den.

Kion bounded excitingly over to Nala.

Simba and Nala exchanged an amused glance.

"Hello Darling" Nala purred.

She bent her head and rasped her tongue over Kion's ear.

Kion ducked away and padded over to Sarafina.

Simba nudged Nala's shoulder with his muzzle.

Nala turned and pressed her muzzle to Simba's affectionally.

She and Simba settled down and began dozing.

Meanwhile Kovu was rasping his tongue over Kiara's ear to remove the traces of mud that clung to it.

"Thanks Kovu" Kiara said.

Kovu bent down and nuzzled Kiara's cheek.

"Always" Kovu answered.

He bent his head and licked Kiara's cheek to remove a speck of mud.

Kiara curled up and pressed her body against Kovu's flank.

Kovu rubbed his chin on the top of her head.

Meanwhile Nita and Rafiki had busied themselves in Rafiki's Tree sorting herbs.

Nita was bent over the juniper berries and Rafiki was shredding moss.

Nita glanced up.

"Rafiki why are you shredding the moss?" Nita asked.

Rafiki chuckled.

"I'm making it easier to be stored" He explained.

Nita nodded thoughtfully.

"When will you take me to see Midnight and the Moonpool so I can become your apprentice?" She asked.

Rafiki sighed.

"I'll take you as soon as Mufasa gives me a proper sign" He promised.

Nita nodded.

"Hurry up Grandpa" She muttered.

Meanwhile The Lion Guard has assembled in the Lair.

Kion cleared his throat.

"I'd like to thank everyone for their help in protecting the Pridelands" he announced.

Fuli beamed.

"You're Welcome Kion" She purred.

Kion padded forward and pressed his muzzle to hers.

Beshte and Ono exchanged a glance.

Bunga cleared his throat.

Kion and Fuli broke apart.

"What Bunga?" Kion asked.

Bunga facepawed.

Kion smiled.

"I'll see you guys later" Kion said.

He nuzzled Fuli's cheek and bounded off.

Fuli bade goodbye to Beshte, Bunga, and Ono before racing towards her cave.

When She got there Fuli found her parents and Ameba clustered inside.

Fuli smiled and padded forward to greet her sister.

She pressed her muzzle to Ameba's forehead.

"Hello Ameba" Fuli purred.

Kesho and Bebo exchanged a glance.

"Hi Fuli" Ameba answered.

Bebo stepped forward.

She nuzzled Ameba's cheek before pressing her muzzle to Fuli's cheek.

"How was your day Fuli?" Kesho asked.

"Fine Daddy" Fuli said.

Kesho bent down and rasped his tongue over Fuli's ear.

Fuli broke away and gently led Ameba  towards her nest.

She nestled Ameba amongst the bracken and feathers and settled down next to her.

Kesho and Bebo entwined their tails and padded towards their own nest.

Meanwhile Kion had joined his family at Pride Rock.

He padded inside and nuzzled Kiara's foreleg.

Kiara chuckled and gently bowled him over with her paw.

Kion squealed and pounced  on her.

Kiara gave a exaggerated moan of shock and crumbled underneath Kion's paws.

Kion began churning his paws against her stomach.

Simba and Nala chuckled as they witnessed the affectionate exchange.

Nala twisted her head and nuzzled Simba's cheek.

Kiara gently shoved Kion off of her.

"Ok Darling. You win" Kiara panted.

Kion squealed and bounded off.

Kiara staggered over to Simba and Nala.

She collapsed against Simba's side and tucked herself into his flank.

Simba bent down and nuzzled Kiara's cheek.

Kovu padded into the den clutching a rabbit in his jaws.

His expression brightened as he spotted Kiara and he padded forward eagerly.

He dropped the rabbit and bent down to nuzzle Kiara's cheek.

Kiara's eyes lit up and she stretched her neck to nuzzle Kovu's cheek.

"I love you" She said drowsily.

Kovu settled beside her and curled his tail around her shoulders.

Simba and Nala smiled as they observed the affectionate exchange

Meanwhile Belee and Kia had isolated themselves in Hapuna Vally.

Belee glanced up at Silverpelt

"Wanna talk to Grandma?" She asked.

Kia nodded.

Belee stood up.

"Grandma!. We wanna talk to you" She called.

Belee shuddered as Uru's spirit embraced her.

"Hi Grandma" Kia said.

"Hello Sweethearts" Uru purred.

"How's it going Grandma?" Belee asked.

Uru smiled warmly.

"It's going fine Darling" she said.

Kia and Belee exchanged a glance.

Uru's spirit embraced Belee.

"I love you Grandma" Belee said.

"I love you too Precious" Uru answered.

Kia glanced behind her then turned. back to Uru.

"Grandma. We're proud to be your kin" Belee said.

Uru's eyes were filled with affection as She gazed at them.

"Oh my Precious Loves, I wish I could spend time with you" She purred

"Mama talks about you often Grandma" Belee said.

"Yes Darling I serve as Kiara's spiritual guide" Uru explained.

Belee and Kia exchanged a glance.

Kia shuddered as Uru's spirit wreathed around her.

Uru smiled warmly and faded away.

Meanwhile Rafiki and Nita had decided to travel to Midnight's Cave.

"Rafiki what if Midnight isn't home?" Nita asked as they struggled up the slope.

Rafiki chuckled and bent down to hoist her up.

"I'm sure Midnight will  be home Honey" He reassured her.

As they passed Rock's Cave, Nita groaned as Rock came lumbering out.

She and Rafiki stopped walking and waited for Rock to speak.

"Too many voles. Not enough exercise. I was enjoying a doze when y'all came thundering past. Don't they raise you with manners anymore?" Rock asked.

Rafiki and Nita exchanged a glance.

"We're going to visit Midnight" Nita explained.

She sank her claws into the earth beneath them.

Rock growled.

He turned around and lumbered back inside his cave.

Nita and Rafiki continued on the path until they reached Midnight's Cave.

When they reached it Nita bolted inside to greet Midnight.

She'd met the old badger once before a few weeks after her birth when Rafiki took her to the Moonpool to introduce her to Mufasa.

They'd instantly struck up an affectionate bond.

Midnight smiled warmly.

"Hello Precious" Midnight rasped.

Nita pressed her muzzle to Midnight's shoulder.

Rafiki padded forward to great Midnight.

Midnight straightened up and smiled at Rafiki.

She gestured for them to enter her cave.

Meanwhile Simba had isolated himself in Hapuna Vally.

He glanced up at Silverpelt.

"Gramps?. I want to speak with you"  He called.

Mohatu's spirit appeared in the sky.

"Hello Simba" He said.

Simba smiled faintly.

"Hi Gramps" Simba said.

He dipped his head respectfully.

"What can I do for you?" Mohatu asked.

"I'd like some advice on how to handle my youngest son's new role" Simba explained.

Mohatu chuckled.

"Kion is growing up Simba. Trust him to make the right decisions and follow his own judgement" He said.

Simba nodded.

"What if he falls in love like my daughter?" Simba asked.

"Embrace it Simba. Let Kion follow his heart" Mohatu continued.

"You're right Gramps" Simba said.

He turned around and went back to Pride Rock.

Meanwhile Kovu and Kiara were curled up in their nest

Kovu was rasping his tongue over Kiara's ear which still had traces of mud clinging to it.

"Thanks Kovu" Kiara said.

She reached up and nuzzled Kovu's cheek.

Kovu bent down and pressed his muzzle to hers.

"You're welcome" Kovu said.

They exchanged an affectionate look.

Kiara propped herself up and leaned against Kovu's flank.

Kovu rasped his tongue on Kiara's cheek.

"How's everyone doing?" He asked.

Kiara chuckled.

"Tifu and Zuri are squabbling. Kula has her paws full with Koda. Mom and Daddy are supportive of Kion. Vitani and I are close to the end of our pregnancy. Nada helped Belee with the hunt" Kiara recounted.

Kovu chuckled.

"Simba took Kion on a border patrol. Kora, Kopa, and I discussed Nita. I found out you told Belee about Nuka" Kovu added.

Kiara smiled.

She pressed her muzzle to Kovu's mane.

They stayed for several moments curled up together.

Kiara curled up and pressed her muzzle into Kovu's pelt.

Meanwhile Kion had joined Nala at Pride Rock.

They were settled together in Nala's nest.

Nala pressed her muzzle to Kion's cheek.

"I'm so proud of you My Darling" Nala purred.

Kion tucked himself into Nala's flank.

"Thanks Mama" He said.

Nala nuzzled Kion's cheek.

"Your father and I are so proud of everything you've accomplished. We love you and we can't wait to see what happens next in your journey" Nala continued.

Kion pressed closer to Nala and closed his eyes.

Nala rasped her tongue over Kion's ear.

Denahi and Kenai were playing Baobab Ball in The Meadow.

Denahi whacked the ball and sent it flying over Kenai's head.

Kenai chuckled and raced after it.

He grabbed it and bounded back to Denahi.

Denahi beamed at his cousin.

"Good catch Kenai" Denahi said warmly.

Kenai smiled at Denahi's praise.

"Thanks Denahi" He said.

"I wish Kion was here to play with us" Denahi said wistfully.

Kenai sighed.

"He's the leader of The Lion Guard. He doesn't have time to spend with his nephews." He said gently.

Denahi nodded.

"I know" He said.

He padded over to Kenai and nudged him affectionally.

Kenai returned his affectionate gesture.

Meanwhile Simba and Nita had met up at Pride Rock.

They were settled on The Peak overlooking the kingdom.

"Papa?. What's it like ruling a kingdom?" Nita asked.

Simba chuckled and drew Nita closer.

"It's a big responsibly Sweetheart" Simba said.

Nita nodded and snuggled closer.

Simba rubbed his chin on Nita's forehead.

"I'm proud of you Sweetheart" Simba said.

"Thanks Papa" Nita said.

"Do you like helping Rafiki?" Simba asked.

Nita nodded excitingly.

"Yes Papa" She answered.

Simba smiled.

"Has Rafiki taken you on as his apprentice?" He asked.

Nita shook her head.

Simba purred sympathetically.

"I'm sure Rafiki will Nita" he assured.

Nita nodded.

"Papa?. Will I lose yours  and Nana's love when my sister is born?" Nita asked.

Simba shook his head.

"Of course not Nita. Nala and I love you" Simba explained gently.

Nita nodded and curled up against his flank.

Simba bent down and nuzzled her cheek.

Naanda and Kia were in Hapuna Vally spending time together.

"Nada tell me what Grandpa was like when He was younger" Kia begged.

Naanda chuckled and settled down amongst the moss.

"Simba was curious, adventurous, and almost foolishly brave. He was  good at heart and longed to become the wise

king that Mufasa was. Simba also had an ego the size of the Serengeti." She began.

"Aunty says that Grandpa was overprotective of her. Is it true?" Kia asked.

Naanda chuckled.

"Simba was overprotective of Kiara to the extent of breaking a promise to her in order to keep her safe" She said.

Kia's eyes widened.

She pressed her body Naanda's flank and closed her eyes.

Belee and Vitani were curled up together in The Meadow.

"Aunty?. What'll happen when you give birth to another cub?" Belee asked.

Vitani bent down and licked Belee's ear.

"I'm still going to be your Aunty. I'll always be here for you. Nothing will change it" She said gently.

"I don't want to be replaced in your life Aunty. I love you" Belee confessed.

Vitani pressed her muzzle to Belee's cheek.

"You'll never be replaced my precious" she murmured.

Belee purred and nuzzled Vitani's cheek.

"I love you Aunty" she said.

Vitani blinked affectionately at Belee and a purr rose in her throat.

She drew Belee closer to her with a paw and pressed her against her flank.

"Aunty tell me about The Battle" Belee pleaded.

Vitani chuckled.

"After Nuka's death Mother declared a battle against the Pridelanders. We were all eager to fight. Pula and I were especially eager to impress Mother with our battle tactics. Kovu and Kiara had fallen in love and run away to find each other after Simba exiled Kovu.

When we entered The Pridelands we found Simba and the Pridelanders waiting for us. Instantly we thrust ourselves into position. I targeted Nala and began to scuffle with her.

Then Mother and Simba faced off and began to fight. Before they could inflict blows on each other, Kovu and Kiara leapt in front of them to stop the battle. Kiara reminded Simba about We Are One and Simba was instantly convinced to cease the fighting. Mother wasn't to easily convinced. She ordered me to attack Simba but I refused. I'd recognized the wisdom of Kiara's message and I stepped over to join the Pridelanders. Mother lept at Simba herself and they tumbled down the ravine. I didn't see what happened after that but later Kiara told me that she'd tried to offer assistance to Mother and Mother had refused her help and fell into the river.

Simba took the Outsiders back to Pride Rock and we witnessed Kovu and Kiara's marriage ceremony" Vitani said.

"When did you and Mom became friends?" Belee asked inquisitively.

Vitani thought for a moment.

"About three days after the battle. Kovu encouraged us to spend time together in The Meadow and we'd discovered that we've several things in common. Like our devotion to Kovu for instance. Kiara's becomes sister to me. She and I get along better then Kora's sister and I do. Maya and I can't stand each other because of the differences in our upbringing. However I encourage Nita's love for both Maya and Kata even though I can't stand them" Vitani explained.

Belee nodded.

"That makes sense Aunty" she said.

Vitani bent down and licked Belee's cheek.

"Aunty why do you have a close bond with Tante Clea and Mom. Yet you're not getting along with Maya?" Belee asked.

"Well Bele, Maya and I are complete opposites in terms of personality. We're trying to get along for Nita's sake though. I know Maya doesn't trust me because I was raised in the Outlands. Kiara and Clea love me for who I am. They don't judge me because of my background or family" Vitani explained patiently.

Belee nodded.

She nudged closer to Vitani's flank.

Vitani pressed her muzzle to Belee's forehead.

They settled down and began dozing.

Beshte had rejoined Basi and Lulu at Big Springs.

They were halfway submerged in the water.

"Dad. How long have you known Mufasa?" Beshte asked.

Basi chuckled.

"I've known Simba's father since I was about Lulu's age" Basi confirmed.

He gazed fondly at his daughter.

"Where's Mom?" Beshte asked.

"She's with Beba" Basi answered.

Beshte nodded.

He waded over to Lulu and touched his muzzle to his sister's forehead.

"How was your day Lulu?" He asked.

Lulu began prancing around Beshte excitingly.

"Fine" She answered.

Basi beamed as he witnessed the exchange between his children.

Beshte stooped down and Lulu clambered onto his back.

Beshte began to swim circles around Basi.

Muwa waded over to them.

She affectionately nudged Basi.

"Hello sweetheart" she said.

Basi turned his head and nudged her muzzle.

"Mama I'm hungry" Lulu said.

"Would you like a mouse Lulu?" Beshte asked.

Lulu nodded eagerly.

Beshte waded over to the prey-pile and fetched a mouse for his sister.

He threw it and Lulu caught it in her jaws.

Lulu's jaws crushed the mouse and she  let out a sigh of satisfaction.

Meanwhile Zazu and Rafiki had gathered in Rafiki's Tree to spend time together.

"Zazu I'm grateful for your faithfulness in keeping Kion's destiny a secret" Rafiki said.

Zazu dipped his head.

"You're welcome Rafiki" Zazu said.

"I'm proud of Kion's success" Rafiki commented.

Zazu nodded.

"I'm proud of him too" he said.

Rafiki bent over his herb collection and began counting yarrow leaves.

"When will you make Nita your apprentice?" Zazu asked.

Rafiki sighed.

"I have to wait for a sign from Mufasa" he said.

Zazu nodded and began counting juniper berries.

Kion had bade goodbye to his friends and headed back to Pride Rock.

He padded sleepily into the den and curled up next to Kiara.

He nudged into her flank and fell asleep.

Kiara nuzzled him affectionally.