Hearing Kovu’s question, yet holding in his response until the two had made their way over to where his daughter was caring for Taraji, Simba took a seat in front of the future royal pair before he addressed his son-in-laws inquiry.
”You know, I wish I could tell you that there was a simple formula to solve that problem Kovu, but if I knew the answer to that myself, there would be no need for Nala and I to slip away on this little private exhibition, as we would have had plenty of time to discuss these matters together if that had been the case. I’d really like to tell you that things get easier in this aspect, but the truth of the matter is, finding time to spend together, while still keeping your priorities in line, it’s a very delicate balancing act that requires a great deal of patience and understanding on both of your parts. As king and queen, a lot is expected of you and sometimes it feels as though there aren’t enough hours in the day to even handle every little thing that comes up, but most of the time, the little moments you two will get to share together, particularly at night, will just seem that much more special to one another.”
Glancing over at his daughter for a moment, watching her fuss over Taraji, who seemed to have had quite the bad dream by the looks of her, Simba returned his gaze back to Kovu before he resumed speaking.
”In all honesty Kovu, I think you have nothing to fear about ruling our lands for a few moons. I hope I don’t sound too straight forward when I say this, but you’ve already done much more amazing things with your life. You’ve overcome an extremely vile family situation with your mother and turned out to be a role model member of this pride. You’ve made my daughter the happiest I’ve ever seen her and you’ve stood in as a perfect father figure for a cub that’s not even your own flesh and blood. In my eyes, playing King for a few days seems quite minor compared to your other achievements in life. I know you’ll do fine Kovu and I couldn’t ask for my pride to be left in better paws. Just remember to use your better judgment and you’ll always make the right decision. Look how far it’s brought you now. You must be doing something right, don’t you agree?”
As if to punctuate her father’s words, Kiara nodded and leaned over to give Kovu a loving nuzzle before both Kiara and her father noticed Taraji’s sudden jolt, causing the golden furred princess to speak up to her shaken daughter in a soothing voice.
”Easy there Cutie. You must have been having a bad dream. It’s okay, you’re safe. Mommy and Daddy are here. Relax Cutie.”
Gently reaching out a fore paw, Kiara carefully brought her distraught daughter back to her side as she nuzzled her softly, leaving a bit of room for Kovu to join in the comforting session as well. Speaking quietly to the crystal eyed cub, Kiara licked away the small beads of sweat that trickled down from Taraji’s adorable little head.
”Want to tell us what scared you Cutie? It was only a dream though. Nothing’s going to hurt you.”
Seeing that both Kovu and Kiara had their paws full at the moment, Simba rose to his paws as he inquired politely to Kovu.
”Is there anything else you’d like to discuss with me Kovu or are we all set here?”