The Lion Guard: A Harsh Encounter

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.

"Great job, Ono." Beshte said.

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.” He said warmly.

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

“May we come in?” She asked.

Vitani sighed.

“Yes, come in.” She said reluctantly.

Simba pressed his muzzle against Vitani’s cheek.

“It’s okay, Tani.” He said gently.

“Mari needs to leave.” Vitani said.

Simba nodded.

He glanced at Mari.

“Mari, go find Ma.” Simba said.

“Yes, Papa.” Mari said.

She stood up, and bounded out of the cave.

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

“Where is Nita?” Kata asked.

“She’s visiting Makini.” Vitani said.

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

Maya scoffed.

“She and Mari need to spend more time with Mother and I.” Maya said.

“That’s for Kora and I to decide.” Vitani said.

“We’re their family.” Maya said.

“You’re not positive influences.” Vitani said.

Simba curled his tail around Vitani’s shoulders.

“You’re not raising them right.” Kata said.

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

Simba cleared his throat.

“Both of you need to leave” Simba said.

Kata sighed.

“Come, Maya.” Kata said.

She and Maya stood up, and exited the cave.

Vitani sighed, and nestled against Simba’s pelt.

“Are you okay?” Simba asked gently.

Vitani nodded.

“I love you.” Vitani said.

Simba’s expression softened.

“I love you too” Simba said.

He rubbed a paw against Vitani’s cheek.

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

“Thank you, Simba.” Vitani answered.

She leaned her head against Simba’s shoulder.

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.

“I caught an antelope.” Kia said.

“That’s wonderful, Kia.” Kenai said warmly.