The attendant shows you a mirror. You gaze in wonder at the costumed lion you see reflected in the mirror. This is perfect, you think.
"Would you like to go out and meet the lions?" the attendant asks with a wide smile on her face.
"Of course!" you exclaim, and follower her out, still wearing the costume.
As you walk back into the lion enclosure full of napping lionesses, a male lion who was keeping himself out of sight suddenly steps into view. The attendant smiles. "That's Zuri, the top male of the pride. I think he likes you."
Sure enough, Zuri pads toward you, rumbling quietly. He lifts his muzzle to sniff at you in the costume. Though you feel nervous at first, for a moment you suddenly feel very relaxed and at ease. Zuri rubs himself against you like a very large cat and begins to walk toward his hiding spot. And before he gets there, he looks back at you to make sure you're following.