Searching for the Pride...

[Mendoza]

Dorne's Biography

Wandering Pt. 1

[Mendoza]

Wandering Pt. 2

[Mendoza]

Lion Blade
In every army there are warriors who surpass the average cold-hearted mercenary, battle-scarred veteran, or wizened drill instructor, not only in their skill at arms but in their ability to inspire and lead others. Lion Blades are just such captains—deadly warriors to be sure, but ones who have honed the art of leadership to a keen edge and keep it as ready as their sword as a means to victory. Lion Blades come from the most secretive schools of the fighting arts, where members dedicate themselves to mastering a single weapon that he possesses a deep bond with.

In addition to training in combat and battle strategies, these schools teach a strong devotion to Nobanion and the tenants of his faith. A strong adherence to this faith is believed to be one of the main reasons for their deadly effectiveness. The devotion a Lion Blade pours into studying his weapon is so intensive he forgoes the use of other weapons almost completely. The intensive training focuses on strength, speed, and reflexes bordering on the supernatural, making them paragons among those who wield their chosen instruments. Lion Blades prefer crowded battlefields and are masters of motion, controlling both their own movement and those around them. Many find themselves in awe as they artfully, and brutally, decimate their enemies all while inspiring and leading vanguard about him on the battlefield.

There are less than three dozen Lion Blades in active service. Almost half of their ranks are comprised of wemics, the rest are humans, and a few elves. Most members of the Pride are rangers or fighters, but there are several priests, paladins, druids and even barbarians.

Hunt only when hungry and do not gorge without need.
Waste nothing and all shall have plenty.
The cycle of life links all living things into one being and that being is life itself.
The law of the wild is that only the strong survive, but they survive best by being leaders, not tyrants, and by protecting the weak, not bullying them.
All creatures have their strengths in their assigned roles and should be encouraged to find their niche.
From cooperation between beings of differing strengths comes the strength of teamwork and community, the strongest force of all.
By demonstrating compassion and tolerance and living within the land, all living creatures may find harmony with nature and one another.
By staying true to oneself and one's pride and conducting oneself with dignity and honor, the respect of one's peers may be earned.

Lion Blade initiates must undergo a series of rites and trials before they are considered a full fledged Lion Blade. First is the Rite of the Noble Hunt. The initiate is sent to an area or region of the known world that has not heard the dogma of Nobanion, most often places in turmoil. The purpose of this pilgrimage is to test the initiate's faith and training. The Initiate's goal is to lead by example and show the folk of the region the beauty in following the King of Beasts. Initiates are not told how long they are to spend on pilgrimage to ensure they focus solely on the task at hand.

The next trial is the Purification of the Hunter. During this rite, the initiate must spend an entire night in vigil over a grove of the Green Triad. Should the dawn of morning come and no harm has come to the grove, the initiate leaves the grove a full-fledged Lion Blade.

Lion Fang
A Lion Fang is the highest ranking and most elite member of the Lion Blades. The choosing of the Fang is in part done by Nobanion himself, in order to ascend to the Pride's top rank, the supplicant must pray in a grove of the Green Triad and receive a vision from Nobanion. An avatar of Nobanion appearing in the grove is a sign of the god's favor and bestows immediate acceptance into the sacred office. There is currently not a single Lion Fang in active service, a testament to the purity and willpower required to achieve the position.

[Mendoza]

Raid on Teleportation Encampment


As the group gathered around Reine in the Eastern Farmlands, everyone seemed tense in anticipation of the coming battle. Dorne fidgeted with various scrolls and wands, ensuring he would have easy access to them during the heat of battle. Reine begun a rousing speech of the coming battle and the reason for our assault on the lich encampment. She finished by stating simply, "She is the most important part of our plan, keep her alive else we will fail." Reine pointed in the direction of Acolyte Alesea Abott, the priestess carrying the lich-destroying scepter.

At this, Dorne undid his shield from his back and moved over to stand near Alesea. "My name is Dorne, miss. Lion Blade of Nobanion and your new bodyguard... I shall protect you with my life, should it come to that."

Alesea turned to regard Dorne with a smile, "My thanks, Sir. And hopefully it will not come to that."

[Mendoza]

Aftermath of the Raid / Shrine of Mielikki


Dorne stops by the shrine on his way south along the Trade Way towards Beregost. Upon noticing the defilement of the shrine, he immediately removes the necklace and drops to his knees in prayer. After several minutes, he rises to his feet and wipes a single tear from his cheek. He gently places the necklace in his pack, intent on seeing the item properly blessed and interred. Finally, he stands tall facing the statute, breathing steadily before speaking...

"This transgression will not go unpunished..."

He stalks off to the south towards the town of Beregost.


.....


The same man that has been visiting the Song of the Morning Temple several times over the past week or so, entered again early this morning. Although this time, there was clearly something wrong just by looking at the man's face and gait. He approaches the Priest and begins explaining to him the scene he found north of Beregost at the Shrine of Mielikki. After finishing, he carefully removes the necklace from his pack and explains to the priest that he does not know of any elves he could entrust this with to properly inter them. He asks, or begs depending upon one's interpretation, that the Priest assist him in properly blessing and burying them as would be accustomed for those of Corellon's children.


.....


He approached the Doron Amar sentries cautiously, calling out several times while moving slowly towards the encampment, hoping to make it known that he means them no harm.

Upon getting close enough to the first sentry to converse, he explains the reason for his presence. Introducing himself as Dorne, Lion Blade of Nobanion before he recounts the tale of how he found the Shrine of Mielikki near Beregost and its state of defilement. He carefully removes the necklace of elf ears from his pack and gingerly hands it to the sentry. He expresses his deepest condolences, and his regret at not being able to do more. He humbly requests that should he be able to help in anyway to track down the perpetrator of the crime that he be allowed to assist in bringing them to justice.

[Mendoza]

Battle for Baldur's Gate


During the battle for Baldur's Gate, Dorne found himself on the first day defending the Western wall with a number of other volunteers. Although the fighting was fierce and losses were had, they held out, only losing several catapults and a few towers. On the second day, Dorne was assigned to the North wall perhaps the commanders had sensed this area was weak or that the undead were most likely to attack there. Either way, it was a fateful decision. The undead attacked with renewed fervor and in far greater numbers than the previous day upon the Western wall. After the breach in the wall... Magmire herself showed her face. Dorne watched his friend Vendor Xon rush after her, sensing the opportunity to end the conflict. With no hesitation, Dorne followed his friend and traded blows with the General of the undead army.



Aftermath of the Battle for Baldur's Gate


Dorne spent some time with Vendor in the follow days. Their friendship only growing after fighting side by side against such insurmountable odds. After passing several Trials, Vendor invited Dorne to a sacred grove... Dorne spent the next few days there, taking in its' magnificence and feeling closest to his god, Nobanion, as he had been since leaving the Guthmere.

.....

Upon leaving the Grove, Dorne made his way south to Beregost. Hoping to feel closer to his mother's god as he had in the last few days with his father's. After spending several hours in prayer and meditation within the chapel at the Temple of the Morninglord. Dorne pulled out a quill and paper from his pack and immediately penned a letter to Dawnknight Eldarian, explaining his desire to officially join the church and honor his mother's memory in the same way he had been honoring his father's. Perhaps in a stroke of luck or divine intervention, the Dawnknight appeared the next morning in the chapel having received Dorne's note. Eldarian took Dorne to the upstairs of the Temple and quested Dorne rather thoroughly. After recanting his life story in rich detail, the Dawnknight accepted Dorne as an Initiate of the Twilight and invited him to take the necessary tests to officially become a Templar within the church. Without hesitation, Dorne accepted, knowing that his mother would want him to learn more of her god and perhaps grow closer to understanding who she was in doing so.

.....

After the meeting with the Head Dawnknight, Dorne immediately headed north to the Gate intent on being prepared for the tests to come and to offer whatever aid to the city he could while making those preparations. Upon arriving, he made his way to the Temple of the Broken God to speak with Brother Ameris. As always, Brother Ameris was extremely helpful. After a sizable (but unnecessary according to the Brother) donation to the Temple, Dorne procured a Diamond to be used in the upcoming tests. Later in the conversation, Brother Ameris asked if Dorne would consider acting as a protector and guardian of his wife, Telia, should she decide to make any trips outside the Gate. As Ameris went on to explain in detail, there were more than a few groups who would not hesitate to attack her if given the opportunity. After Telia agreed, Dorne quickly followed. After spending a decade being a bodyguard for a wizardess, he would know be a bodyguard for a sorceress, except this time it was his decision. Dorne extended the offer to Ameris as well, after realizing that the same threats against Telia are levied against Ameris. Dorne would have likely shown some hesitation to accept such a position, but the Brother of the Broken God had been one of the few people he could honestly call a friend since arriving on the Coast and he was, in some ways, honored at the request.

[Mendoza]

Rebuilding...


A man in a golden-yellow hood and cloak appears at the building in Baldur's Gate where the Orphanage has been temporarily moved to. Upon gaining entry, the man introduces himself and explains to the Sisters his willingness to train any of the children that wish to learn how to use a sword. He tells the attending Sister that Brother Ameris from the Temple of the Broken God has vouched for him. He waits in the front room of the building for the Sister's answer.

.....

[Mendoza]

Path to Dawn


For mother...

I am on a new path. One that, I hope, will give me a deeper understanding of why my mother devoted her life to the Morninglord. When father was ordained, he took a name to show deference to his new wife while also his own god. Perhaps in this my journey I will understand why he showed such deference and will gain new insight into my mother's journey those many years ago.

.....

Alesea uncorks the vial of holy water and swipes her thumb across the mouth of the glass. She reaches over to begin drawing a slaw, circular shape upon Dorne's brow under his hood. "Morninglord help us welcome each new day. It is a gift to us, a new creation, a promise of rebirth. May our hands do the work of good. May our eyes seek the truth and revel in the beauty. May we speak compassionately. Abundant and Infinite Light, make us an instrument of your peace. Where there is injury, let us sow forgiveness. Where there is doubt, faith. Where is sadness, joy. May this be especially true of Brother Dorne in his path of service to You. She completes the slow circle of anointing upon Dorne's brow. Where there is despair, let there be Hope. Where there is darkness, Your Light. Amen."

"Dorne, you are hereby granted the title of Initiate of the Stars under the authority of myself, Knight-Commander Eldarian Al'maire and the watchful eye of Lathander."

.....

I have completed the Second and Third Trial now. I have successfully defended Acolyte Abbot against the forces of darkness and ensured her safety as she conducted the ritual of cleansing. For the Third Trial, I sacrificed a precious ring that was given to me by the Elder Lion Blades. It had saved my life on several occasions since arriving on the Sword Coast, but I felt it necessary to take the faith I had in that material object and put it into faith in the Morninglord. He will guide me in these dark times and see that I return safely as the ring once did. I look forward to my Initiation Ceremony where I will officially become a Templar and take my rightful place amongst Lathander's sacred ranks. I believe mother would be proud and surely she will watch the ceremony at the Morninglord's side from the heavens.

[Mendoza]

Mentor, Protector


A new opportunity to spread the word of Lord Firemane and the Morninglord... Although I was unable to make the mark I wanted to during the Battle for Baldur's Gate, perhaps in the efforts to rebuild I will find that opportunity. I have been asked by the Order of Lions along with Brother Ameris and the Orphanage, to guard over the Pathfinders hall once some of the children are moved there. Until a new orphanage is built, we will have to make the best of the situation and try to make the children as comfortable as possible. While not standing watch, I will train any of the children who would like to learn the way of the sword. I will use the opportunity to impart what knowledge I have on these children. Not only will they learn to wield a blade, they will learn what it means to wield a blade and the responsibility that comes with it. Through the teachings of Nobanion and Lathander, they will learn strength, patience, and hope. I pray the gods assist me on this new journey and guide me along its righteous path.

.....

A man in a golden-yellow hood and cloak appears at the building in Baldur's Gate where the Orphanage has been temporarily moved to. Upon gaining entry, the man introduces himself and explains to the Sisters his willingness to train any of the children that wish to learn how to use a sword. He tells the attending Sister that Brother Ameris from the Temple of the Broken God has vouched for him. He waits in the front room of the building for the Sister's answer.

Sister Juna greets Dorne politely and after hearing him out, she leaves the man alone, while she retreats further into the building to talk with the other caretakers and guardians. Dorne can hear the typical sounds of children-filled rooms... giggles, yelling, loud thumps of running, little feet, some crying. What should catch man's attention is a fact that the clergy and Radiant Heart guards are spread thin and the kids are many.
Soon Sister Juna comes back with four boys in tow. They all look no more than 12 and no less than 10 years all and they form a proper line next to the Ilmateri.

"Sir, those are Nicholas, Riley, Andrew and Dannic. They expressed interest in learning some sword-play. Please keep in mind that they are still children" She gives the four boys a certain look before her attention is returned to Dorne "And they need very close supervision. I trust you will take a good care of them. Please escort them back here in three hours so they are not late for their chores and dinner."

The man nods along as Sister Juna speaks and maintains eye contact with her throughout. Once she finishes, he looks over to the four boys and examines them closely for a few seconds before walking over to the first, going to one knee before him.

Nicholas looks curiously at Dorne.

As he does so, he places one hand on the child's bicep, giving a light squeeze before moving his hand further up to the child's shoulder and again giving a light squeeze (someone with a good eye would discern the reason for this is to gauge the child's strength and specifically whether or not he could swing a sword).

The child would not mind the inspection, standing still, eyes trailing Dorne's doings carefully. Throughout the whole ordeal, Dorne would learn that the boy would have trouble with lifting a longer, bigger blade.

Simultaneously, he speaks in a soft, warm voice to the child asking why the boy would like to learn to wield a sword.

"I want to be able to protect the other kids, mister!" Nicholas would say with a resolve so apparent in his still childlike voice

He listens intently to his response before asking if the child has ever had to swing a sword before.

"No" The boy shakes his head, scratching his cheek with a sheepish smile showing "Sorry, mister"

Afterwards, he would stand and continue down the line of boys with the same action and questions for them all.

From the four boys, neither have ever wielded a real sword. The answers as to why they wish to learn how to do it would vary from child to child but one thing would be common for all of them. Motivation to learn.

Upon finishing his questions, he rises and addresses all the boys, "A sword is a weapon, not a toy. The training will not be easy, but... If you all listen to my instructions... You will wield a blade better than most others. Now, do you all agree to listen to my directions without question?"

Boys vigorously nod, muttering in agreement, still a little bit intimidated by the man.

After the boys respond, Dorne offers them a warm and comforting smile before nodding once. "Good. I have faith that you all will be excellent students."

Being offered a comforting smile the four pupils entrusted to Dorne straighten their backs, awaiting instructions.

After his short speech, Dorne walks over to Sister Juna. He leans in close as he speaks softly, hoping to ensure the boys do not overhear, "Sister, were there no girls who were interested? I would be more than happy to train them as well should they show similar interest."

The ilmateri turns to glance at the boys still standing in line before she answers Dorne. "Even if, for now I can't spare the girls. They are helping with the children. Once our situation improves we could revisit this." Juna nods to the Lion Blade offering a smile before she casts the last glance at her charges. With a mild concern visible in her eyes, the older woman returns to her duties.

After Sister Juna leaves, Dorne turns to the boys and addresses them again. "For our first lesson, we will visit our training room where most of the lessons will take place. As you may have heard some of the children will be moved to the Pathfinders Hall nearby. I have requested that you four be among the children selected. That way we don't have to travel far for lessons. And I can keep a closer eye on all of ye." The final sentence is muttered under his breath.

Boys would glance between one another, exchanging mischievous grins at the thought of leaving the Orphanage.

Before departing for the Pathfinders Hall, Dorne instructs them of the proper formation they must use while traveling. He tells them to form two single file lines. He moves Nicholas and Riley into one line and Andrew and Dannic into another. "Nicholas and Andrew will be in front on the way there and then Dannic and Riley can be in front on the way back." He tries to sound as fair and even-handed, knowing that young boys can be jealous over the most minor things. "Both lines will walk side by side and I will walk behind ye, centered between the two lines. And when I say 'Form up' ye will get into these lines directly in front me alright?"

"Aye Aye, sir!" Boys say in unison, saluting to Dorne with smiles plastered across their faces. It's clear they are enjoying themselves

Dorne utters the command, "Form up."

They rearrange themselves into the proper formation. It keeps its form even if a little unevenly.

"Excellent work! If ye continue to listen this well maybe I can arrange a sweet-snack at the kitchen in the Pathfinders Hall." He smiles warmly to the group and beams with pride.

Boys puff their chests up, trying to look proud. Which could make a bystander laugh.

After getting the lines to his satisfaction, Dorne leads the group of Lion Cubs towards the Pathfinders Hall. He gives them a short tour of the facilities including the upstairs and main floor.

Dannic and Andrew look around, admiring the soft carpets and painting on the walls, while Riley seems to be itching to check the door hinges that looked crooked to him. Nicholas' eyes, on the other hand, seem to be glued to the Lion Blade, tracing his every step.

Finally, he leads them down to the basement. "Down here is where the training room is and where we will be doing most of our lessons." He walks them into the training room and stands silently for several moments, letting the boys examine the room for themselves.

Which the lucky four does, surveying the space and equipment.

He breaks the silence once all the boys have satisfied their curiosity, "You all ready for your second lesson?" He awaits their response before continuing.

His question is met with four, very determined nods.

"Good, now when I saw 'Stand at attention' you all will form a single line facing me. Alright? Now, stand at attention." He waits patiently for the children to form the proper line.

Kids form a proper line

Upon completing the task, Dorne speaks up with a comforting smile, "Excellent work!... Now, there are several things I must teach you all before we get to swordplay... Your minds must be as sharp as your blades, young ones. That is the difference between a good swordsman and a great swordsman. Do you understand?" He awaits their response before continuing.

Four heads offer a solemn nod to the teacher.

"Good, now I believe we should have a name for our group and seeing as I am Lion Blade and we are in the Order of Lion's guildhall, tis only fitting that I call ye Lion Cubs. How does that sound?" He smiles warmly and awaits their response.

Andrew roars, trying to imitate a lion for which Riley smacks him across the head.

"Cubs are small lions" Nicholas says in a thoughtful tone. "We are small, but we will grow. I like it." He looks to his friends. Boys smile to Dorne nodding their heads in agreement.

"Excellent. I know you all will make me proud and if ye listen well to me words, you will all become the greatest sword wielders in the land." Upon finishing the lesson, he gives the command to 'form up', then arrange some snack for the children before escorting his pupils back to the Orphanage.

.....

First encounter and lesson with the Lion Cubs went about as well as could be expected. They are eager to learn and I am eager to impart my knowledge to those who show such willingness. I have contacted Maltz regarding the necessary supplies for the training. Hopefully by the time they arrive the children will be ready for sword practice... For now, they must learn what it means to wield a blade then we will move to footwork and movement. The preparations for the children's' arrival seems to be going extremely well. One generous donor gave 600,000 gold pieces to the cause. My jaw nearly hit the floor when the man offered the coin. I suspect he may be a Duke, but who knows. I had never seen him before nor have I seen him since.

[Mendoza]

Simon the Lion: A new Dawn


It is with a heavy heart that Simon was moved from his temporary home at the Pathfinder's Hall to the Elder Circle's grove.... It is clear to me that those who call the Hall home had become accustomed to Simon's presence and he will be missed sorely. However, it is my responsibility to look past this and see that this child of the Oakfather be returned to his rightful place in nature.

After arriving at the Grove, High Druid Nai was able to heal the old lion. His teeth and claws were regrown and he may yet become self-sufficient enough to leave the Grove. For now, we must be thankful for the progress he has made thus far. I will continue to check-in on him whenever I can.

Simon has been blessed with a new dawn and it shines upon him as bright as the first day of Spring...

[Mendoza]

Mentor, Protector -- Second Lesson

Several days after their first lessons, Dorne appears at the Orphanage shortly before mid-morning. He greets the Sisters and guardsmen from the Radiant Heart, then goes to Sister Juna and inquires if there is anything she needs or he can do to help.

Instead of Juna, Dorne meets Anne amidst a group of children. The young woman greets Dorne with a relieved smile. "Just in time! Please take these additional three rascals with you." She points to a small group - two boys and a girl - by the window, that seem to be trying to wrestle one another to the ground. "After hearing the offer from Greyfox they want to be worthy of going and can't stop talking about swords and fights." She tries to settle down a crying toddler.

"Splendid, I am sure they will be as eager to learn as the others."He then begins gathering the Lion Cubs and tells them to 'Form up' before they exit the Orphanage and make the short journey to the Pathfinders Hall.

Lion Cubs with ridiculously, for a bunch of children, serious faces move in proper formation after the Father Lion.

As they arrive, he ushers them to the basement and into the training room. While on the way down, he again, makes a comment to the cook to prepare a snack for when the children are finished. Once Dorne and all of the children are inside the room. He utters the command, "Lion Cubs, Stand at attention.... Now, the lesson today will be on footwork. The key aim of any combat stance is to be secure and strong. That's true for both Paladins and Pirates. You don't want an enemy to be able to throw you off balance. Now, is everyone right-handed?

Seven heads barely growing their lion manes nod in response.

"Good, good. To get into a proper stance, you start with your feet slightly more than shoulder-width apart. You take a good sized step forward with your left foot. You want at least one 'foot length' between the back of your left foot and the heel of your right foot. Also, you want at least a foot length between your two feet. You want to balance your weight so it's evenly spread between both feet." As Dorne instructs, he makes the same movements to demonstrate properly for the Cubs. As each child slowly makes the right movements, he continues instructing, "You want to stay on the balls of your feet for better balance and mobility. Your back foot is used to help anchor you, and your chest is upright. This gives you the ability to rebalance yourself no matter which way your enemy comes at you and pushes you, and also presents a smaller area of attack to your enemy." He smiles warmly to the Lion Cubs as they each slowly make the proper movements. "You all look like seasoned warriors! Now, let us try something a little more difficult: the proper footwork for an advance and retreat."

The seven cubs have their attention fixated on Dorne.

Dorne moves towards the center of the room for his demonstration. As he gets to the appointed spot, he begins instructing again, "The basic advance and retreat are there to keep you as balanced as possible and as protected as possible. You start in the combat stance. To advance, you start by moving your -back- foot forward slightly, in a straight line forward, as if you are gliding. You do not want the toes of your back foot to cross the line made by your front foot's heel. That is, you do not want to lose any stability by getting yourself into an off-balance position. You stay on your toes as you do this. Once the back foot is re-planted, you kick your front foot forward to resettle into a new standard stance." Again, he demonstrates for the Cubs as he speaks to help ensure they understand exactly what he is doing. He patiently waits for each child to mimic his movements.

It seems that his exercise confused the little warrior cubs, most of them seem to not be able to repeat the sequence. Some trip or bump into another. Few angry comments fly around and before anyone can blink the only girl in the group headbutts Dannic.

Dorne immediately does his best to defuse the situation. He walks over to the girl and Dannic and separates them before speaking loud enough for all the children to hear. "Enough! We will -not- fight one another. A warrior who allows his emotions to control his actions is weak. These lessons will be difficult but we must work together and encourage one another. Do you think I learned how to bring down a giant in one day? Of course not, it takes -practice-." He then goes over to each child individually and guides them through the motions until they have it down. He spends extra time with the three newest Cubs. He makes a point to remind each child that as long as they try their hardest, they will succeed. He also emphasizes that, as difficult as it may be, they must remove any emotion from their mind and focus.

The troublesome trio proves to be quite a handful. There is a lot of tension and aggression in their every move and remark. It's apparent at this point that these three will need much more time to understand the concept of discipline.

Afterward, he continues the instruction, "In retreat, you start by moving your -front- foot back slightly, in a straight line back, again as if you were gliding down in a straight line. Again, you do not want the front foot to come back so far that it nears the plane of the back foot. Once the front foot is re-planted, the back foot moves back to regain your normal stance. For both advance and retreat the chest must stay upright. No leaning or swaying which leads to off balance. The head should seem to move in a straight even line, to keep your sight firmly focused on your opponent." For the final time, he stands patiently and awaits every child to successfully mimic the movements.[/i]

Again some confusion shows in the way the kids react to the instructions. It appears the Father Lion will have to spend much more time breaking it down for the very inexperienced cubs.

"Do not be discouraged Lion Cubs. This is no easy task even for a full-grown man, but with -practice- you all will be able to execute these movements with ease."Again, he goes over to each child individually to demonstrate the proper technique. Once every child is fluidly advancing and retreating, he asks that each Cub advance to one side of the room then retreat back to the other side, ten times each. He watches each child closely to ensure they are successful.

Children start to make some progress, but their movements and understanding, not to mention fluidity is far from perfect. Some of them, especially the new trio seem to be having a hard time accepting how hard this exercise actually is.

Despite the minimal progress, Dorne encourages them and explains that he is proud of the progress they are making before he goes about to each Cub individually and corrects their mistakes in a soft and comforting voice. As the children finish their drills, he tells them to get some water and take a short break. He addresses the entire group as they rest, "I asked each of you why you wanted to learn to wield a sword and each of ye gave me a different answer. Nicholas... you said you wanted to protect the other children."

And the boy nods with a serious, thoughtful expression.

He then speaks to the three newest Cubs. "You three want to join the Greyfox Tribe and you each understand that such a life requires you to be able to defend yourself... You all must remember your reasons for being here wanting to learn. Clear your mind of any other thoughts and focus on why you are here. Let that reason motivate you during the hard lessons that will be taught."

Future wannabe tribe members straighten up, proud and perhaps closer to understanding than before.

Upon finishing, he smiles and says, "Ten more and we will be done for the day. Come on Lions hop to, ye all can do it!."

Children move to repeat the sequences. Small progress would be visible although there is a long way before they will be able to conduct this exercise without hiccups, stumbling and slip-ups. The last two repetitions seem to be performed at a very slow pace. Fatigue showing on cubs' faces.

He watches proudly as they finish drilling. "Excellent work today, all of you. This is what you all must come to expect from our lessons: they will difficult but ye must remain focused. Each one of you is making good progress and that is because you are trying ye hardest. In time and with practice, each one of you will be able to execute these drills without faltering. And should you falter, I will be there to pick you up and put you back on the right path." As he finishes, he instructs them to 'Form up' and ushers them to the pre-planned snack and then finally back to the Orphanage.

[Mendoza]

Subject: Church of Ilmater RP

There seems to have been some disturbance in the temple of Ilmater two nights hence.

After a sharp discussion with a bearded visitor, Dorne, Telia and Brother Ameris were seen leaving in much tension, and heading towards the harbour.

They returned later, accompanied by Eldarian, Berea and Aeric; with Ameris supporting a seemingly injured Father Marcus into the infirmary. There, Eldarian and Berea were seen helping treat the priest.

Conversation took place between Brother Ameris and Sister Rachel, with the view being expressed that Ilmatari priests should not leave the temple unaccompanied, either moving in pairs or asking for a Brother of the Radiant Heart who happened to be present to accompany them.

Ameris makes sure to share this conversation with the other Adorned, making clear there is a risk of kidnapping.

[Mendoza]

Mentor, Protector -- Third Lesson

After fetching Nerys at her campsite outside the city walls, Dorne and the emissary from the Greyfox make their way to the Orphanage near the temple of Illmater. The pair gather up the few Lion Cubs staying there before heading towards the Pathfinder's Hall. Once there, they gather up the remaining children. He makes sure to point out to Nerys the three potential trio who showed interest in the Greyfox.

Nerys greets them all with a smile saying, "Cool winds, lion cubs". Her smile lingers a bit longer on the three children.

The whole group greets both Nerys and Dorne with waves, nods and smiles.

When all the Lion Cubs are finally present, Dorne instructs them to stand at attention. He then introduces Nerys to them, "Lion Cubs, this is Nerys Greyfox. She will be joining us for our lesson today. You all will listen to her and follow her instructions as if they were coming from myself, is that understood? He patiently waits for a reply from the group before continuing.

"Understood!" There is no confusion among the kids.

"Today, we will not be practicing. Instead we will be taking a small field trip around the Gate to visit the various monuments of those who bravely gave their lives to defend this city." After explaining today's lesson, Dorne commands the Cubs to Form Up and they exit the Pathfinder's Hall.

Lion Cubs assume their positions keeping the formation more or less. Nerys being there slightly confusing them in the first few moments.

Nerys brings of the rear of the formation, gently guiding any who wander back to their place.

The group makes their way towards Ragefeast's tower in the Palace District. As they get closer, Dorne steers the Cubs towards the black obelisk next to the tower. "This is our first stop." He lets several moments pass, allowing the children to examine the monument before he speaks up. "Can anyone tell me who this obelisk is meant to honor?" He patiently waits for one of the children to reply.

Neither of the little warriors has any idea. They look to one another, then to Dorne.

"It is important that each and every one of you remember these brave men. They fought and died for something greater then themselves. Nobanion teaches us that we should protect those that are weaker than us. This memorial is honoring soldiers who did just that, and we must honor them by never forgetting their sacrifice."

Nerys finally speaks up, "A death in battle is the most honorable death of all. This stone is a constant reminder of them. In my tribe, we share stories or songs to honor the fallen."

Some of the kids turn a bit sad, others thoughtful or even mildly irritated but they remain silent. War and the lost that comes with it brings different memories in everyone.

The group then makes their way to the second stop in the Palace District near Mudd. Again, Dorne allows the children to gaze upon the monument before speaking. "Can anyone tell me who this statue is meant to honor?" He patiently waits for one of the Lion Cubs to reply.

Riley looks at the others then speaks quietly, "I think it's a priest blessing us."

"You must know yourself and your enemy. If you do this, you will be in a thousand battles and will have a thousand victories. This memorial honors those who fell in battle. Those who fell did not know themselves or did not know their enemy, that is why it is important to train your mind and heart as well as your sword-arm."

Nerys continues the thought, "What Dorne says is true, for true strength comes from your heart." She pats her chest. "Those with a fire in their blood can become warriors if that is the path they choose. Also, those we honor here are also the victims of the battle. Many citizens of this walled village died in the battle along with their defenders. It is not their fault. Sometimes the enemy is stronger. There is no loss in honor if you are defeated by a stronger enemy. Our spirits are all honored the same in that case."

Few of the kids turns somber for a moment, but the mood shifts quickly when they are abou to move further.

After finishing at the second memorial, the group makes their way back to the East District. They steer towards Aello's shop and stop at the nearby memorial. Once again, Dorne asks, "Can anyone tell me for who is this statue meant to honor?" Dorne patiently waits for one of the Lion Cubs to respond.

"Last war." Anika looks to the group then to Dorne.

"The dead and the living from last war" Andrew adds.

"It does not take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle. You must use your fear, Lion Cubs. Fear of the unknown, fear of failing... Use it against those that would seek to hurt you or those whom you fight for. A warrior's mind is his greatest ally, but can be his greatest enemy as well. Do not let your thoughts be clouded with doubt. Focus on your mission and remember your training."

Nerys continues, "We practice being warriors so that we are better warriors, as Tempos, the Lord of Battle teaches us. The flag with the fiery sword is the symbol of Tempos. The red on my shield and sash are in honor of Tempos. The red fire represents the fire burning hot in my blood and heart, where my true strength is found."

Afterwards, the group makes one final stop at the fountain-memorial near the Pathfinder's Hall. Dorne allows the children several moments to examine and enjoy the watery spectacle before speaking up, "Can anyone tell me who this memorial is meant to honor?" As usual, he patiently waits for one of the Lion Cubs to respond.

Nicholas speaks up, "Its a soldier with a sword and all, so it must be about them."

"Never has a man who lived a life of leisure left a name worth remembering. These men have a name worth remembering as do all the men who are honored by the memorials we visited today. For they all headed Nobanion's words, and so loved the ones they sought to protect that they accepted death. Always remember my lion cubs, those that fell may be dead but they live on in each one of our heart's, and their names are engraved upon honor's crest for eternity."

"No one builds statues for the soft and weak. Remember true strength comes from within. It is not how tall or strong you are. I'm not that tall and certainly not as strong as Dorne, but we are both strong of heart, which is what truly matters. It should matter for you, lion cubs, also."

As the lesson concludes, he ushers the Lion Cubs into the Pathfinder's Hall.

Nerys brings up the rear again, answering any questions the children might have for her.

Kids in rather serious and slightly grim mood stay silent, nodding their goodbyes. Even the rowdy trio seems much less laud and unusually thoughtful.

///OOC: Big thanks to Duster for your involvement! And as always, big thanks to DM Arrakeen!