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The ruler of the Tree of Life is the formal title given to the reigning monarch of the Tree of Life. Being an absolute monarch, the king or queen is vested with full executive and judicial control.
Duties[]
Regulation of food[]
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The monarch dictates how much prey an animal resident may have. They enforce the Circle of Life by regulating prey consumption and forbidding hunting for sport. If the monarch deems that an animal is in violation of the Circle of Life, they may forbid that animal entry to the Tree of Life.[1]
Banishment and citizenship[]
| “ | Varya: I've heard the Tree of Life could be a safe place to raise my cubs. Is that true? Rani: That's up to the queen. |
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Janna accepts Kion and Ono for healing.
The monarch has ultimate authority over who is allowed to live and hunt in the Tree of Life's territory.[2] In many cases, the monarch must determine if an animal is in dire need of healing or sanctuary, though they may also accept animals who simply wish to visit or live there.[1] Additionally, the monarch must determine where best to house an animal in need. At times, they may need to negotiate with prey residents who have concerns about living alongside predators. In this way, the monarch reinforces the Circle of Life within the Tree of Life's borders.[2]
Healing[]
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If the monarch is a healer, it is their job to channel the Tree of Life's healing powers to heal any injured or sick animal who requires it.[3] They may also designate someone else to oversee a sick or injured animal's healing journey, like Janna tasked Nirmala with healing Kion.[1]
Leading the Night Pride[]
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Some monarchs are also tasked with leading the Night Pride. In this role, they are expected to reinforce the Tree of Life's borders and protect its animal residents.[2]
Succession[]
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Rani is anointed queen.
The order of succession in the Tree of Life monarchy is hereditary. Presumably, it is based on equal primogeniture, meaning inheritance by the oldest surviving child without regard to gender. The heir apparent is the eldest child of the reigning monarch.[4]
In order to ascend to the throne, the heir apparent must walk to the base of the Tree of Life, where they are anointed with a blue painted marking on their forehead by a Royal Mjuzi. They are then accepted by their subjects as well as the Night Pride.[2]
Known rulers of the Tree of Life[]
References[]
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