The Lion Guard: A Deep Resentment

It was a peaceful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was doing a patrol in Kilio Valley.

“What’s Mari doing today?” Fuli asked.

“She’s with Dad and Tani.” 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." 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 the den.

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.

“I love you, Papa.” Marigold said.

Simba’s expression softened.

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

He rubbed a paw against Mari’s cheek.

“Did Mari behave on the patrol?” Vitani asked.

Simba nodded.

“She always does, Tani.” Simba said warmly.

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

“May I come in?” Kata asked.

Vitani sighed.

“Yes, come in.” Vitani said reluctantly.

Simba pressed his muzzle against Vitani’s cheek.

“It’s okay, Tani.” Simba said reassuringly.

“Mari needs to leave.” Vitani said.

Simba nodded.

He glanced at Marigold.

“Mari, please go find Ma.” Simba said.

“Yes, Papa.” Marigold said.

She stood up, and bounded out of the cave.

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

“Where is Nita?” Kata asked.

“She’s at Rafiki’s.” Vitani said.

“She’ll be back at sundown.” Simba said.

Kata scoffed.

“Why do you let her spend time with that old mandrill?“ Kata asked.

“Rafiki is her mentor. It’s important for Nita to spend time with him.” Vitani said.

Simba curled his tail around Vitani’s shoulders.

”Easy, Tani.” Simba said soothingly.

“She’ll never be able to contribute properly to the pride.” Kata said.

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

“Nita doesn’t want to learn about hunting. It’s her choice.” Vitani said.

Simba cleared his throat.

“You need to leave now, Kata.” Simba said.

Kata stood up, and exited the den.

Vitani sighed, and nestled against Simba’s pelt.

“Are you okay?” Simba asked gently.

Vitani nodded.

“I love you, Simba.” Vitani said.

Simba’s expression softened.

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

Vitani leaned her head against Simba’s shoulder.

“I'm the future king's sister. I should be treated with respect.” Vitani said.

“I know, Tani.” Simba said.

He rubbed a paw against Vitani’s cheek.

“Will you join the evening hunt?” Vitani asked.

“Of course I will.” Simba said warmly.

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

She was helping him count juniper berries.

“How’s Midnight?” Nita asked.

“She is fine.” Rafiki said.

Nita moved closer, and nestled against him.

“I love you.” Nita said.

Rafiki’s expression softened.

“I love you too.” Rafiki said.