The Lion Guard: A Tense Discussion

It was a peaceful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling Kilio Valley.

“What’s Mari doing today?” Fuli asked.

“She’s with Mom 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.

“It’s been really quiet lately.” Bunga said.

“That’s a good thing, Bunga.” 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, Nala had met up with Vitani and Mari inside Kora and Vitani's cave.

They were settled down amongst the moss.

"Did you enjoy the hunt, Tani?" Nala asked.

Vitani nodded.

“I’m very proud of Belee and Kia.” Vitani said.

Nala’s expression softened.

“I am too.” Nala said.

She watched Mari nestle against Vitani's pelt.

Vitani glanced up, and groaned as Maya entered the den.

Vitani and Nala exchanged a glance.

"Please get Mari away from here." Vitani said.

Nala nodded, and turned to Marigold.

"Sweetheart, go find Bemba." She said.

Mari nodded.

“Yes, Nana.” Marigold said.

She stood up, and bounded out of the den.

Kata moved forward.

“Why hasn’t Nita still not learned about hunting?” Maya asked.

Vitani sighed.

“Because she wants to focus on her duties as Rafiki’s apprentice.” Vitani said.

“Learning about hunting should be more important.” Maya said.

“Kora and I respect Nita’s devotion to her duties as Rafiki’s apprentice.” Vitani snapped.

Nala pressed her muzzle against Vitani's cheek.

"Easy, Tani." She said soothingly.

Vitani cleared her throat.

“I’d like you to leave now, Maya.” Vitani said.

Maya turned, and exited the den.

Vitani sighed, and leaned against Nala’s pelt.

“Are you okay, Tani?” Nala asked.

Vitani nodded.

“I’ll never prove myself to them.” Vitani said.

Nala leaned over, and nuzzled Vitani’s cheek.

“Darling, you don’t have to prove yourself to them, or anyone else.” Nala said gently.

“I love you, Nala.” Vitani said.

Nala’s expression softened.

“I love you too. I always will.” Nala said.

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.