Nubia

overview

Nubia is an honorable Amazon warrior and formerly the guardian of Doom's Doorway. After Hippolyta abdicated, Nubia was appointed the new queen of Themyscira and, later, the queen of all Amazons.

history

orgins: Before becoming an Amazon, Nubia was Zahavah, princess of an ancient kingdom on the African island of Madagascar. She served as a general to her people, and led them in a war against the Kingdom of Aridai. During battle, she was betrayed by her compatriot, Lieutenent Azariah, after she faltered and refused to kill the prince of Aridai, still a baby boy. Afterwards, Azariah slew her mother and father, and took the throne for himself. Guardian of Doom's Doorway: For many long years, Nubia was the solitary guardian of Doom's Doorway in the underground caves of Themyscira. At least once, a monster escaped her watch and the island, fleeing into the world of men; she pursued it into Man's World, eventually catching up with it in Chicago, USA. During a school visit to a city museum, Nubia saved Ms. Knight and many schoolchildren from the Manticore's attack, and later saved Ms. Knight from the harassment of an unknown man on the street. They quickly found themselves attracted to each other, and started a relationship that, unfortunately, was doomed to end too soon. Return Of The Amazons: When the mythical Olympian world collapsed and Grail usurped the throne of Queen Hippolyta, Nubia pretended to betray the Queen and support Darkseid's daughter until the Amazons could once again rally and fight for Themyscira's recovery.

history

Infinite Frontier: With Diana's departure at the end of the great battle that redefined the Multiverse, some Amazons fought each other for the title of Wonder Woman. Queen Hippolyta wisely imposed a test of courage, saying that the next Wonder Woman would be the one who dared to look at the head of the Gorgon Medusa inside a bin, and only the one whose heart is just and whose mind is not clouded by ambition would survive the petrifying gaze of the monster. Only Nubia, without hesitation, agreed to undergo the test, but inside the bin instead of Medusa's head she found a golden crown. Hippolyta made her the new Queen of the Amazons while she herself would go to the World of Men instead of any other. The other Amazons were pleased by Hippolyta's choice, who also passed the royal scepter to the new queen. Nubia and the Amazons: Early into her reign Nubia was faced with several strange developments to Themyscira, for the first time in decades five new Amazons sprung up from the Well of Souls, the seer Penelope received a grave vision of Themyscira's destruction, and Doom's Doorway was no longer watched by a dedicated Guardian. The later would result in the spirit of Medusa escaping the Doorway and possess several Amazons as she searched for her severed head. The turbulent situation would lead to a few Amazons to question Nubia's position as Queen but she still received firm support from Philippus, Hippolyta's chief advisor. Eventually Nubia tracked down Medusa to Doom's Doorway and offered her head in exchange for the safety of the Amazon Medusa had possessed. With her head returned to her body Medusa was restored to her full strength and battled Nubia but was eventually defeated by the Staff of Understanding, a magical weapon newly forged for Nubia by her lover Io. With the use of the Staff Nubia was able to reconcile with Medusa, lifting her curse that turned her into a Gorgon, and accepted her as a new Amazon.

history

Trial of the Amazons: While Nubia was able to quell the initial crisis on Themyscira, her victory was short lived. Hippolyta returned to the island with the news that Princess Diana had returned to the world of the living but she was shortly followed by some Amazons of Bana-Mighdall and a seperate group of the Esquecida who had each recently been attacked by monsters that had escaped from Doom's Doorway. Despite the past animosity between the two groups, Nubia allowed the Bana-Mighdall to enter Themyscira. Diana, Donna Troy, and Cassie Sandsmark also joined the convergence on Themyscira. In light of the monsters' attacks, Nubia hosted a tournament amongst all three tribes of Amazons to decide who would succeed her as guardian to Doom's Doorway. The stakes of the tournament would be further heightened when Queen Faruka of the Bana-Mighdall demanded that the winner would not just be named guardian of Doom's Doorway but that the ruler of their tribe would also be given the authority to rule all Amazons, a condition which Nubia accepted. Nubia shortly named Philippus as the champion for Themyscira while Faruka and the Esquecida selected Donna Troy and Yara Flor respectively while Diana entered the Trail independently. The already tense political situation was worsened when Nubia discovred that Hippolyta had been poisoned that evening. Not wanting to risk more danger Nubia decided to go ahead with the Trail and tasked Cassie Sandsmark to find Hippolyta's killer. Nubia was also able to persuade Diana to surrender the Lasso of Truth in order to maintain her trust with the Bana-Mighdall and Esquecida, even if it meant delaying finding Hippolyta's killer.

history

Despite Nubia's best efforts the start of the Trail was met with calamity as the primal God of Chaos escaped from Doom's Doorway to destroy Themyscira. Right before the attack Nubia gathered the Amazon leaders to the throne room where Cassie Sandsmark revealed that Artemis of Bana-Mighdall committed Hippolyta's murder, who Nubia swiftly sent to Reform Island. As more monsters flooded out of Doom's Doorway Nubia mustered the three tribes of Amazons in an attempt to hold of Chaos. Eventually the enemy was defeated but only at the cost of Hippolyta's sisters, Atalanta and Antiope, who sacrificed themselves in order to close Doom's Doorway.

history

Queen of the Amazons: Ironically, Chaos' attack intended to destroy the Amazons had the opposite effect and finally reunited the three tribes. At a feast following the battle Queen Faruka recognised Nubia as queen of all Amazons, not just those on Themyscira. Shortly afterwards, Nubia held her coronation at the Themysciran Embassy so that the dignitaries of the Patriarch's World were also able to attended the ceremony, which was conducted by Diana. Afterwards Nubia left Philippus in charge of Themyscira while she went on a diplomatic tour of the Patriarch's World, first stopping at the Hall of Justice where Hawkgirl joined her entourage. Nubia attended a rally against illegal logging in the Amazon but was ambushed by a paramilitary group during her speech.

personality

Strength and Resilience One of Nubia’s most defining traits is her strength—both physical and emotional. As an Amazon warrior, she embodies the ideals of bravery and resilience. Her background as a general in her native kingdom on Madagascar showcases her strategic mind and combat skills. Despite facing betrayal and personal trauma, including being subjected to violence in some storylines, Nubia emerges as a figure of empowerment. This resilience allows her to confront challenges head-on, whether they come from external threats or internal conflicts within Themyscira. Leadership Qualities Nubia’s ascension to the role of queen after Hippolyta signifies not only her capability but also the respect she commands among her peers. She demonstrates strong leadership qualities characterized by wisdom, compassion, and fairness. For instance, during crises such as the return of Medusa or the turmoil involving different Amazon tribes, Nubia shows an ability to unite disparate factions under a common cause. Her decisions often reflect a balance between strength and empathy—she seeks to protect her people while also understanding their fears and aspirations. Compassionate Nature Despite her warrior persona, Nubia possesses a deeply compassionate side. Her relationships with other characters—such as Io and Ms. Knight—reveal her capacity for love and connection. These relationships are not merely romantic; they also highlight her ability to form bonds based on mutual respect and understanding. Nubia’s willingness to reconcile with Medusa after defeating her illustrates this compassion further; instead of seeking vengeance, she opts for understanding and healing.

personality

Courageous Spirit Nubia’s courage is another hallmark of her personality. She willingly faces daunting challenges without hesitation—such as when she accepted Hippolyta’s test involving Medusa’s head or when she confronted monsters escaping from Doom’s Doorway. This fearlessness is not just about physical battles; it also extends to moral courage—the willingness to make difficult choices for the greater good. Evolution Over Time Throughout various comic arcs—from Pre-Crisis portrayals where she was depicted as Wonder Woman’s “black twin sister” created from black clay to more recent interpretations where she becomes queen—Nubia’s personality has evolved significantly. Each iteration adds layers to her character: from being manipulated by Ares in earlier stories to becoming an independent leader who fights for justice on behalf of all Amazons.

appearance

Skin Tone and Hair: Nubia is characterized by her dark skin, which highlights her heritage as a Black woman and distinguishes her from other Amazons. She typically has long, flowing black hair that is often styled in a way that emphasizes her warrior persona. In some depictions, her hair may be worn loose or in braids, showcasing both strength and femininity. Armor and Attire: As an Amazon warrior, Nubia often wears armor that is both functional for battle and representative of her royal status. Her outfits usually incorporate elements like breastplates, gauntlets, and other protective gear made from materials that suggest durability while allowing for mobility. The color palette of her attire frequently includes golds, reds, and greens—colors associated with royalty and the Amazonian culture. Physical Build: Nubia is portrayed with a strong and athletic build, reflecting her training as a warrior. She embodies the ideal of physical prowess expected of an Amazon, with well-defined muscles that convey both power and agility. Her stature is typically tall, further emphasizing her commanding presence. Accessories: Nubia often carries weapons such as swords or staffs that complement her role as a guardian and warrior. These accessories are not only practical but also serve to enhance her regal appearance. Additionally, she may wear jewelry that signifies her royal status among the Amazons. Facial Features: Nubia’s facial features are often depicted as strong yet beautiful; she has high cheekbones and expressive eyes that convey determination and compassion alike. Her expressions can range from fierce during battle to serene when at peace or in moments of leadership.

powers and abilities

Superhuman Strength Superhuman Durability Flight Superhuman Reflexes Superhuman Speed Superhuman Agility Superhuman Stamina Healing Superhuman Senses Hand-to-Hand Combat