The Lion Guard: A Tense Confrontation

It was a peaceful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was doing a patrol in Ukuni Woods.

“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 and Vitani exchanged a glance.

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

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

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

“Can 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 gently.

“Mari needs to leave.” Vitani said.

Simba nodded.

He glanced at Marigold.

“Sweetheart, go find Diku.” Simba said.

“Okay, Papa.” Marigold said.

She stood up, and rushed out of the cave.

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

“I suppose Nita is at Rafiki’s.” Kata said.

“Yes, she’ll be home at sundown.” Vitani said.

Kata scoffed.

“She spends too much time with that old mandrill.” Kata said.

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

Simba pressed himself against Vitani’s pelt.

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

Vitani sighed.

“Nita is Rafiki’s apprentice. It’s important for her to learn from him.” Vitani said.

“Nita needs to learn how to hunt. That’s the main purpose of a lioness.” Kata said.

Vitani growled quietly.

“Nita prefers to spend time with Rafiki.” Vitani said.

“She shouldn’t have a choice.” Kata said.

Simba cleared his throat.

“That’s enough. Leave now, Kata.” Simba said.

“Very well.” Kata said.

She 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, darling.” Simba said.

He rubbed a paw against Vitani’s cheek.

Meanwhile, Kenai and Kia had met up with Bemba at the Meadow.

They were settled down underneath the baobab tree.

"How was the hunt?" Kenai asked.

"It was fine." Bemba answered.