Neo

Rubesco was a cruel and ruthless lion. After Apedemak transformed Virii into a vicious husk of who he used to be, Rubesco was appointed the next heir to the throne. When Neo, surpassed his strengths however, Rubesco planned a mutiny to keep his future title.

This however backfired, and Neo chased his former teacher out of the pride. Virii was furious that Neo had done so without consulting him, and in blind rage, almost killed him. Neo came out of the incident scarred and just a little more distant.

Despite the scars that litter his body and the scowl he wears on his face however, he is at heart, a modest gentle-giant. He despises how the pride is ruled, and is currently next in line for the throne. He himself though, doesn't really desire to be king. While he enjoys the security of food, he's not all that interested in the kingly duties, mostly those of breeding. He finds the act difficult to think about to put it lightly.
He finds peace in being alone, or among smaller animals he finds. The only reason (outside of security) he's still here is thanks to Princess. She and him are romantically involved, but thankfully for him, not sexually.
He stays for now to protect her, and reluctantly take over eventually.