Mbatian the Great Laibon
Mbatian was the most powerful laibon (spiritual leader) in Maasai history, a descendant of the Inkindongi clan. His prophetic powers were legendary — he could predict droughts, locate lost cattle, and communicate directly with Enkai. As he grew old, Mbatian had to choose which of his many sons would inherit his powers. His favorite, Senteu, was trained in the sacred arts, but his younger son Lenana proved more cunning. On his deathbed, Mbatian announced that whichever son he called to his bedside would inherit his powers. Lenana tricked a messenger into calling him first, usurping his brother'