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Ita has served as the pride's chief broodmother for most of her life, despite technically being Ilanga's apprentice. She; famous for her compassionate and accepting disposition. Still, any cub that's been protected by her knows that trying to take advantage of that kindness is an awful idea; after all, one doesn't become head broodmother by being a pushover.
Even grown lions in the pride know not to spark Ita's temper. Doing so could result in anything from an hour-long lecture to being stuck in the time-out corner (which, according to her, is most certainly not just for cubs). Having raised many of his offspring, Ita gained the full trust of King Zidlayo, a privilege which she used to the best of her ability until his demise. She's trying to do the same with Masizi, but it's taking some time for him to warm to her after his bloody takeover.
During the Golden Age, Ita viewed herself as responsible for the entire pride, not just the cubs she'd been entrusted with. She made it a point to ensure the happiness and health of all her peers; this led many to view her as more of a queen than Ilanga. Once the Golden Age gave way to the Age of Bone, however, it became impossible for her to look after them the way she had before. She still tries, of course, but there's only so much she can do. It's said that seeing all the death and sorrow created by Masizi and his Queen has sent her into a depressive spiral that she'll never quite recover from.
Wherever she goes, Ita is always accompanied by an African Wild Dog named Mpenzi. Always. Few lions have ever seen her without him glued to her side. She rescued him when he was a young, orphaned pup aimlessly wandering the Savannah. She was little more than a cub herself at the time, but with the help of her mentor and closest friend, Ilanga, she managed to convince King Zidlayo to let her keep him. While most pride members were originally wary of allowing the dog near their cubs, Mpenzi quickly proved himself a loyal and helpful addition to the broodmothers' clique; he's endlessly patient and treats every cub as though it were his own. His boundless energy also makes it easier to keep the little monsters entertained, for which Ita and Ilanga were eternally grateful.
Mpenzi has never spoken to anyone, but he certainly seems to understand what others were saying, leading to some contention over his intelligence. Still, most lions treat him as a respected member of the pride, both because they appreciate his work and because they don't want to get on Ita's bad side.
[1/10/16] - When you greet her, Ita makes sure to remind you to visit everyone else in your pride today.
[1/28/16] - Ita approaches you and starts licking your muzzle, cheek and ear. You obviously should look your best today.
[3/12/16] - You apparently ate something bad last night, and you just flop on the ground. Ita comes up to you and asks if you want anything. She brings you some grass and water, and sits next to you until you feel better.
[11/13/16] - Ita asks if you have invented any new, adorable cub names yet.
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