The Lion Guard: An Intense Conversation

It was a beautiful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling Kilio Valley.

“How are Timon and Pumbaa?” Ono asked.

“They’re fine.” Bunga answered.

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.

Meanwhile, Kiara had met up with Vitani and Marigold inside Kora and Vitani’s cave.

They were settled down amongst the moss.

“Did you enjoy the hunt?” Kiara asked.

Vitani nodded.

“Belee and Kia are doing very well.” She said.

“They certainly are.” Kiara answered.

She and Vitani watched Mari nestle against Vitani’s pelt.

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

“May I come in?” She asked.

Vitani and Kiara exchanged a glance.

“Mari needs to leave.” Vitani said.

Kiara nodded.

“Daddy’s in our den.” She said.

She glanced at Marigold.

“Sweetheart, go join Papa.” She said.

Marigold nodded.

She stood up, and bounded out of the cave.

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

“Nita hasn’t joined the hunting party yet.” She said.

Vitani sighed.

“She doesn’t want to hunt. Her father and I respect her wish.” She said.

“The other older female cubs are learning. She shouldn’t be excused from it.” Kata snapped.

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

Kiara curled her tail around Vitani’s shoulders.

“Easy, Tani.” She said soothingly.

Kata scoffed.

“Even Prince Kion knows how to hunt.” She said.

“Kion wanted to learn. Nita doesn’t.” Vitani said.

“She’s still a cub. She shouldn’t have a choice in the matter.” Kata said.

“She’ll always have a choice.” Vitani snapped.

Kiara cleared her throat.

“I think it’s best if you leave. Now.” She said.

Kata stood up, and exited the cave.

Vitani sighed.

“Why does this happen?” She said quietly.

“I don’t know, Tani.” Kiara said gently.

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

She was helping him count juniper berries.

“How is your family?” Rafiki asked.

“Everyone’s fine.” Nita answered.