The Lion Guard: Nala's Affection

It was a peaceful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling Mizimu Grove.

"How's Mari doing?" Fuli asked eagerly.

Kion's expression softened.

"She's fine. She's been keeping Zuri company" he said.

"How is Zuri?" Beshte asked gently.

Kion sighed.

"She hasn't left Pride Rock in nearly a fortnight" he said.

"She's still grieving?" Bunga asked.

Kion nodded.

He glanced at Ono.

Ono nodded and took to the sky.

He returned a moment later and settled down on Beshte's back.

"All clear" he said.

"Thanks Ono" Fuli said warmly.

Meanwhile, Nala had met up with Belee and Denahi at the Meadow.

They were settled down underneath the baobab tree.

"Why aren't you leading the hunt?" Belee asked.

Nala rubbed a paw against Belee's cheek.

"I wanted to spend time with you" she said.

"Who is leading the hunt?" Denahi asked.

"I think Nona is. Your mother wanted to hunt with your father" Nala explained.

Belee stretched to nuzzle Nala's cheek.

"I love you Gran" she purred.

Denahi nodded in agreement.

"I love you both very much, and I'm proud of you" Nala said.

"Really?" Denahi asked.

Nala nodded.

"You've both grown up remarkably" she said.

"Do you want to try playing Baobab Ball with us, Gran?" Belee asked.

"It's really pretty easy" Denahi said.

Nala nodded.

"I've watched all of you do it, I'm sure I can figure it out" she said warmly.

Denahi stood up, and padded over to the baobab ball.

He bent to grasp it with his teeth.

Nala nudged Belee to her paws, and they padded over to join him.

Meanwhile, Kovu and Kiara had met up at Pride Rock.

They were sharing a thrush outside of the den.

"I love you. I'm glad I get to spend time with you" Kiara said.

Kovu rubbed his muzzle against her cheek.

"I love you too. I'm proud of you're hunting skills" Kovu said.

"Really?" Kiara asked.

Kovu nodded.

"I'm proud to stand beside you" he said.

Kiara bent her head to take a bite of the thrush, and pushed it towards Kovu.

"Do you want the rest?" She asked.

Kovu shook his head, and pushed it back to her.

"It's all yours" he purred.

"Thanks, my love" Kiara said.

She bent her head, and neatly devoured the remains of the thrush.

Meanwhile, Nita and Rafiki had met up at Rafiki's Tree.

"How's Zuri feeling today?" Rafiki asked.

Nita sighed.

"She still hasn't left the den. Kula asked Nana to excuse her from the hunting party until further notice." She said.

She bent her head, and began counting juniper berries.

"Really?" Rafiki asked.

Nita nodded.

"Aunt Kiara's really worried about her" she said.