The Lion Guard: An Intense Confrontation

It was a beautiful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling Hapuna Valley.

"How's your family, Kion?" Beshte asked.

"Everyone's fine." Kion said.

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." Kion said.

Meanwhile, Simba had met up with Vitani and Mari 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 and Simba watched Mari nestle against her.

“I hope Mari behaved on the patrol.” She said.

Simba’s expression softened.

“She’s a wonderful cub, Tani.” He said.

He leaned over, and nuzzled Vitani’s cheek.

From the entrance to the cave, Kata cleared her throat.

“May I come in?” She asked.

Vitani and Simba exchanged a glance.

“Mari needs to leave, now.” Vitani said.

Simba nodded.

“Nala’s in our den with Belee.” He said.

“Can Mari join them?” Vitani asked.

“Of course.” Simba said.

He turned to Mari.

“Honey, go to the den.” He said.

Marigold nodded.

She stood up, and bounded out of the cave.

“Come in, Kata.” Vitani said reluctantly.

Kata entered the cave, and settled down amongst the moss.

“Where’s Maya?” Vitani asked coldly.

“She’s on a hunt.” Kata answered.

Vitani unsheathed her claws, and sank them into the moss underneath her.

Simba pressed his muzzle against Vitani’s cheek.

“Easy, Tani.” Simba said quietly.

“Shouldn’t you be hunting?” Kata asked.

“I’ve done the morning hunt.” Vitani said.

Kata scoffed.

“It’s a shame Nita can’t hunt.” She said.

“Kora and I respect her wish to not learn about hunting.” Vitani snapped.

“Nala and I do as well.” Simba added firmly.

“Will Mari learn about hunting?” Kata asked.

“When she’s old enough to learn.” Vitani said.

“Isn’t she old enough now?” Kata asked.

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

Simba curled his tail around Vitani’s shoulders.

“It’s okay, Tani.” He said soothingly.

Kata sighed.

“Where is Nita?” She asked.

“She’s at Rafiki’s.” Simba said.

“She will be home at sunset.” Vitani said.

Kata cleared her throat.

“I’m going to find Maya.” She said.

She stood up, and exited the cave.

Vitani sighed, and nestled against Simba’s pelt.

“I love you, Simba.” She said quietly.

“I love you too” Simba said.

He rubbed a paw against Vitani’s cheek.

“I’m so sorry, Tani.” Simba said gently.

“It isn’t your fault”. Vitani answered.