The Lion Guard: A Difficult Relationship

It was a peaceful day in the Pridelands.

The Lion Guard was patrolling Ndefu Grove.

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

“She’s with Tani and Dad.” 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." Kion 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 Bemba.” Simba said.

Mari nodded.

“Yes, Papa.” Mari said.

She stood up, and bounded out of the cave.

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

“Where is Nita?” Kata asked.

“She’s at Rafiki’s.” Vitani said.

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

Maya scoffed.

“She shouldn’t spend so much time with that old mandrill.” Maya said.

“That’s not your concern.” Vitani snapped.

Simba curled his tail around Vitani’s shoulders.

“Easy, Tani.” Simba said.

“My granddaughters should’ve been princesses.” Kata said.

“Kora and I didn’t want that for them.” Vitani said.

“You should have.” Maya said.

“It’s our 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 den.

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.

Vitani leaned her head against Simba’s shoulder.

“You are very special, Tani.” Simba purred.

“Thank you, Simba” Vitani said.

Meanwhile, Nita had met up with Rafiki at his

tree.

She was helping him count juniper berries.

“How is Mari?” Rafiki asked.

“She’s fine.” Nita answered.

She leaned over, and nuzzled Rafiki’s cheek.

“I love you.” Nita said.

Rafiki’s expression softened.

“I love you too.” Rafiki said.