The Lion Guard: A Harsh Discussion

It was a beautiful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling Hapuna 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." Fuli 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.

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

Simba nodded.

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

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

“May I come in?” Maya asked.

Vitani sighed.

“Fine, come in.” Vitani said reluctantly.

Simba pressed his muzzle against Vitani’s cheek.

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

“Mari needs to leave.” Vitani said.

Simba nodded.

He glanced at Mari.

“Darling, go find Nada please.” Simba said.

“Yes, Papa.” Mari said.

She stood up, and bounded out of the cave.

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

“Where is Nita?” Maya asked.

“She’s at Rafiki’s.” Vitani said.

Maya scoffed.

“Being an apprentice shouldn’t exclude Nita from learning about hunting.” Maya said.

Vitani sighed.

“Kora and I respect Nita’s desire to focus on her duties as Rafiki’s apprentice.” Vitani said.

“Nita shouldn’t have a choice. I enjoyed learning about hunting when I was Nita’s age.” Maya said.

Vitani growled quietly.

“We decide how Nita is raised.” Vitani snapped.

Simba curled his tail around Vitani’s shoulders.

”Easy, Tani.” Simba said soothingly.

Simba cleared his throat.

“You need to leave” Simba 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.

“You and Kora are wonderful parents.” Simba said.

“Thank you.” Vitani said.

Simba extended a paw, and Vitani nestled against him.

“Never let anyone convince you otherwise, Tani.” Simba said gently.

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

She was helping him sort borage leaves.

“How is Mari?” Rafiki asked.

“She’s fine.” Nita answered.