Wakipanda

Wakipanda- Swahili for "ascending"

Born during the era of Matamanio the Resolute.

Queen Wakipanda is in fact not directly descended from the previous queen, though royal blood still flows in her veins. Tragically, Queen Ushindi's final litter, from which an heir would be chosen as per custom, was stillborn. Shaded Stones was thrown into a panic, and the elders were called upon to consult the bark of the Pridetree, upon which the history of the pride is etched. It was discovered that Bingwa, the grand-niece of the queen, would be the most suitable choice, and a match was arranged for her as quickly as possible. Thus, the new Queen, Wakipanda, was born.

Wakipanda grew up under much pressure - she was constantly aware of the circumstances of her birth and the fact that the pride was essentially leaderless until the time that she came of age. She found escape from her stresses in learning about lions of other cultures, particularly those who lived in tropical climates. As queen, she was afforded the ability to travel due to diplomatic relations, and was excited to be able to visit the lands that fascinated her so. While there, she adopted some of the traditional dress of the locals, and continues to wear the bright decorations even now.

"As you two greet each other, Wakipanda moves away when you get too close. You try to approach her again, and she begrudgingly accepts the friendly nuzzle you offer her. She looks a bit bothered about it, though."
"You wonder where Wakipanda found that really cool bug she is playing with. When you ask her, though, she just invites you to play. Alrighty then."
"You went up to Wakipanda to ask how hunting practice went today. She instead told you all about a cool bird she saw on the way. You guess she doesn't really want to talk about it. Ah well."