–Hey, Mrithi, we're like brothers, aren't we?"
–Huh, really
Despite their parents' displeasure, the two loved spending time together. By running away from the pride to play, they were also running away from their problems.
It was only with Nuka, this shaggy and awkward kind-hearted lion cub who often ran after his friend, that Mrithi could feel like a real child. With him, he forgot about the responsibility that had been placed on him, about the tedious lessons and the annoying mentor. With him, he could open up and just let himself have some childish fun.
It was only with Mrithi, this often sullen, cocky and serious lion cub beyond his age, that Nuka could feel truly needed. With him, he forgot his mother's indifferent gaze, his father's sarcastic remarks, and his weakness. With him, he felt like he was behind a stone wall and at the same time his equal.
Scar, being the father of one, but at the same time the guardian of the other, casually made them even more related, although he himself did not like it very much. No matter how hard he tried to shield his precious heir from a shaggy misunderstanding, Mrithi did not obey the ban and was always ready to defend his friend in front of the king. And often, as now, I just sneaked away with him. Scar could only accept it, but his face twisted into a snarl whenever he saw the two of them together.
After all, their friendship was so similar to his friendship with Mufasa...