Bast is an ancient feline goddess revered by several of Earths oldest civilizations, considered a special ally of humanity. Sometimes referred to by the name Orisha, Bast occupies a unique niche in the pantheon of Wakanda. In some legends it was Bast in the guise of the Panther God who guided the great warrior Bashenga to the site where a meteorite brought vibranium to Earth. Bast blessed his lineage to become Wakandas eventual rulers after they united its tribes. The strength of Bast flows into the panther, who in turn guides and protects his people. Throughout Wakandas cities and particularly in places for public gatherings or spiritual services, great statues of panthers are erected. These are sculpted by the nations most accomplished artisans, and many of these statues have special history or commemorate individual heroes or past sovereigns. Endeavoring to honor both Bast and Wakandas royal line, the greatest of these statues feature vibranium interwoven into the sculpted stone. This creates an effect that is aesthetically striking but also augments their enduring legacy, making these sculptures nearly immune to the ravages of time. Woe betide any interlopers who bring violence to the sacred spaces where Bast peers through the eyes of her panther icons.