[I/T] UKUHLWA'IZWE - THE OUTLANDS (Joining Open!)

[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || UKUHLWA'IZWE || ◈
the outlands

Welcome! First, I just want to give a huge THANK YOU to the SoA community for the sudden interest in seeing an Outlands reboot. Although it was not originally my pride (a huge shout out to Kisoni and Granny Niblo), I was the one entrusted with it last and am ultimately the one that let it die quietly when interested waned. This time around I have tried to stay true to many of the ideals that the pride valued while also attempting to give it some new love and flair that I think you will all enjoy.

I apologize in advance if it is a bit much to read but please let me know what you think - any and all feedback is greatly appreciated, as are plots and ideas that you might want to toss my way.

Notes & Announcements:

• I am in need of a new cert image! Please contact me if you are interested in helping out - I do not have much but I am willing to pay!
  
• I could also use headers, dividers, and general pretty thread graphics.
  
• If you see a typo or something generally doesn't make sense, please let me know! Text walls tend to blur together and I can proof read as much as I want to and still not catch everything.


Contact:

• Owner: Felyn
  
• Discord: Felyn #3392

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[b]Pack/Pride Name:[/b] UKUHLWA'IZWE ;[url=https://www.gaiaonline.com/guilds/viewtopic.php?t=25218049]Link Here[/url]
[b]Current IC Owner(s):[/b] Felyn
[b]Current OOC Owner(s):[/b] Felyn
[b]Default ranks:[/b] Unbranded (Adolescents); Shield (Adult)
[b]Current Pride/Pack Members, and Rankings of Each:[/b]
[spoiler]1. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/vulzrs8be8tjc4f/Ashiki_Cert.png?raw=1]Ashiki[/url]; Queen
2. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/0nti5igqseeogqp/Khethiwe.png?raw=1]Kethiwe[/url]; Crown Prince
3. Amachwane; Prince
4. Azisa; Princess
5. Isigidi; Prince
6. [url=https://i.imgur.com/djciYx8.png]Ska[/url]; Consort
7. [url=https://i.imgur.com/U4jcq91.png]Ebbe[/url]; The Monarch's Claw
8. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/ifucl51h4ovchz0/Kat adult cert.png?raw=1]Katiti'manina[/url]; The Monarch's Eye
9. [url=https://i.imgur.com/l5s5hpo.png]Marionet-dido[/url]; Vizier Apprentice
10. [url=https://i.imgur.com/Uekpe5n.png]Shetani[/url]; The Monarch's Mind
11. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/iik9xzqm4j3tohu/Azzan_Cert.png?raw=1]Azzan[/url]; Claw
12. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/6x9pvgoapoli88z/Majuto.png?raw=1]Majuto[/url]; Scar
13. [url=https://cdn.nickpic.host/images/ppQmwD.th.png]Nokhalo[/url]; Scar
14. [url=https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/353096810388258828/404377525733556234/waarheid.png]Waarheid[/url]; Scar
15. [url=https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/353096810388258828/398020278120087552/hazina.png]Hazina[/url]; Scar
16. [url=https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/353096810388258828/404377377544601612/zawadi.png]Zawadi[/url]; Scar
17. [url=https://i.imgur.com/PU9Evdw.png]Ajani[/url]; Scar
18. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/3afzzpw5p4xnuoq/Aithne_Cert.png?raw=1]Aithne[/url]; Shield
19. [url=https://postimg.org/image/jrju4madh/]Tahani[/url]; Shield
20. [url=https://postimg.org/image/dzobb7pxh/]Yaya'Uqui[/url]; Shield
21. [url=https://cdn.nickpic.host/images/ppQvjP.png]Hapana[/url]; Shield
22. [url=http://starlit.waywarddreaming.net/Breedables/SoA/Main/Certs/Jhosef.png]Jhosef[/url]; Unbranded
23. [url=http://starlit.waywarddreaming.net/Breedables/SoA/Main/Certs/InamUlHaqq.png]Inam'Ul Haqq[/url]; Unbranded
24. [url=http://www.runewater.com/gaia/soa/certs/tamdaadultcert.jpg]Tamda[/url]; Unbranded
25. [url=https://s5.postimg.org/5wb7x4m8n/Roguedevmay-1.png]Dev'May[/url]; Unbranded
26. [url=https://s5.postimg.org/g6dmwdz9j/Mila_zpsjidlqn4w.png]Miulau[/url]; Unbranded
27. [url=http://i.imgur.com/nRpwocy.png]Mdalasini[/url]; Unbranded
28. [url=http://i.imgur.com/lx0ttoL.png]Siri[/url]; Unbranded
29. [url=https://i.imgur.com/Zm4enYQ.png]Caia[/url]; Unbranded
30. [url=https://chaost.s3.amazonaws.com/BCPets/SoA/nisimefull.png]Nisime[/url]; Unbranded
31. [url=https://imgur.com/wOvT8wU.png]Gizi[/url]; Unbranded
32. [url=http://i.imgur.com/9vXnWQD.png]Mtambaazi[/url]; Unbranded
33. [url=https://i.imgur.com/MfrDw6e.png]Nuwayrah bint Tyrngah[/url]; Unbranded
34. [url=https://postimg.org/image/tuxtj4rg9/]Ngozi[/url]; Unbranded
35. [url=https://img-cache.cdn.gaiaonline.com/3947270d4384e01d0f443abc353f187c/http://i981.photobucket.com/albums/ae297/SoAstuff3/Meep/Rogue/zawadiadolcert.png]Zawadi[/url]; Unbranded
36. [url=https://i.imgur.com/2ZVrong.png]Harufu[/url]; Unbranded
37. [url=https://i.imgur.com/LshrxwT.png]Kufutwa[/url]; Scryer
38. [url=https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/353096810388258828/419737316744101899/utajiri.png]Utajiri[/url];Scryer
39. [url=http://www.runewater.com/gaia/soa/certs/conlaodhadultcert.jpg]Conlaodh[/url]; Vessel
40. [url=https://postimg.org/image/f64xkxtvp/]Daucallion[/url]; Vessel
41. [url=http://runewater.com/gaia/soa/certs/kidogobawaadultcert.jpg]Kidogo'Bawa[/url]; Consul
42. [url=https://chaost.s3.amazonaws.com/BCPets/SoA/Oarona.png]Oarona[/url]; Eye
43. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/0ozx4cfhwcb34qf/Zakiya.png?raw=1]Zakiya[/url]; Guide
44. [url=https://i.imgur.com/bFyYET1.png]Eve[/url]; Guide
45. [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/ho6565utiyvgqdq/Telal.png?raw=1]Telal[/url]; Broodling
46. [url=https://postimg.org/image/y4cw4w2id/]Anikki[/url]; Broodling
47. [url=https://cdn.nickpic.host/images/pUNF3X.png]Marama[/url]; Broodling
48. [url=https://cdn.nickpic.host/images/pA5PFO.png]Dafari[/url]; Broodling
49. [url=https://cdn.nickpic.host/images/pA5JLN.png]Senka[url]; Broodling
50. [url=https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/seakibucket/SS/Zombikii1.png]Chausika[/url]; Tarnished[/spoiler]

[b]Links to at least five [i]current[/i] RPs:
[url=https://www.gaiaonline.com/guilds/viewtopic.php?t=25238501]Ashiki & Katiti[/url]
[url=https://www.gaiaonline.com/guilds/viewtopic.php?t=25237521]Shetani & Ajani[/url]
[url=https://www.gaiaonline.com/guilds/viewtopic.php?t=25237709]Ashiki, Azzan & Kethiwe[/url]
[url=https://www.gaiaonline.com/guilds/viewtopic.php?t=25238505]Ashiki * Ebbe[/url]
[url=https://www.gaiaonline.com/guilds/viewtopic.php?t=25238507]Azzan & Chau[/url]
[b]Brief Description of your Pride/Pack: [/b] After many long years the pride has at last been able to return to the lands of their forefathers. One by one, each group of their exiled members have returned and they are ready to finally show the world the might and determination that flows in the veins of the true Outlanders.
[b]Familiar Rules:[/b] Yes, but only if they are bonded to an existing member.
[b]Cert Background Large Image:[/b] [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/rd9flst6sdgg5yz/outlandscert.jpg?raw=1]Here[/url]
[b]Pride Symbol for Cert:[/b] [url=https://www.dropbox.com/s/hcan40lvrdizmv0/outlandsemb.png?raw=1]Here[/url]
[b]Any Extra Information:[/b] n/a
[b]Pride/Pack History:[/b] The Ukuhlwa'Izwe are the remnants of the old Outlands pride. Ashiki, the Queen, made the hard decision to force her pride members into a rogue existence while they waited for the lands to recover after the earthquakes of the past decimated their hunting grounds. After many long years they have finally returned.
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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || The Path of Our Ancestors || ◈
our story

Quote:

The years have passed and with them, a legend carries from mouth to mouth, twisted bit by bit over the passage of time and spoken only in hushed whispers by those that will soon take the truth of it to their grave. It is a tale of two brothers - one raised to glory and revered by all those that would utter his name and the other, outcast and robbed of his rightful place as King, spoken of only with misplaced disgust born of rotten lies.

This is not a story about your golden, glorious, deceitful Mufasa. This is a story about the forgotten crown prince, the one true heir, Taka; the Scar of the Pridelands, the wound you would lick and heal and forget.

Denied his birthright, Taka lived a life in squalor among his pride. He was ignored by those he loved the dearest and rejected by those he sought to protect and serve. As Mufasa rose to fame and glory on a throne he did not earn, Taka plunged himself into thankless duties, wearing himself to the bone for the greater good of his people. As time passed, his noble heart grew heavy and distant and his body grew weak with overwork and worry. When the plague finally broke the borders and swept through the Pridelands to ravage both herdbeast and hunter alike, he was taken from us, never to regain what he had lost. Even the greatest souls are subject to the circle of life.

Surviving their father were a single pair of children - a son that would disappear into the ranks without so much as a thought at what he had lost, content with bucking duty and tradition in favor of a guilt-free life, and a daughter who would serve her father's glory until her last dying breath.

Like the beginning of our story, Taka's resurrection begins with a pair: Serafina and Tahka. Twins of the soul and two parts of a finely tuned weapon, they would see their grandfather's legacy live on through disease, disaster and failure. They abandoned those that had turned their back upon him and fled the Pridelands with a vow to return stronger and better than those that had denied him and led him to a death fraught with regret. His scions forged a place for themselves in a land the Pridelanders thought too unforgiving, taking back the part of their heritage that the great Mufasa was too careless and lazy to nurture. If they could survive in the shadows of an unwanted land and rise to greatness then they were truly the blood of Scar and the rightful bloodline of the noble Pridelands. In their hearts they knew there was no truer mark of a King or Queen than one made by blood, sweat and tears. Their resolve would be tested again and again, just as Mufasa's betrayal had tested Taka's heart and Taka's death had tested his children.

Mere years into their reign saw a tragedy that shook their newfound pride to its core: The Earthquake that Destroyed Lives. The throne had passed from Serafina to her half-sister, Ashiki, a lioness who matched her sister for her cold calculation and ruthlessness. The numbers of the pride had swelled and at last, it seemed, they might make a move to begin taking back bits of their homeland piece by hard fought piece, when the earth itself rose up to defy them. As the world shook, debris and disaster surrounded them, separating families and killing their loved ones. Worst of all, however, was the loss of their prey. A great migration path ran along the backside of their forgotten lands and fed their lions like lifeblood from a vein - somewhere farther up it became blocked, dispersing the herds and starving the pride dry. After weeks of scrounging for food to feed her brethren and worried for the survival of their bloodline, Ashiki ordered her pride members to disperse through the rogue lands so that they might grow strong once more. She assured them that when the time came, when she knew that they could return home and thrive once again, she would send for them all.

Once again the Blood of Scar was rejected and cast out, forced to wander foreign lands so that they could simply hope to survive. A few stayed behind to safeguard their new home and to keep a watchful eye on the shifting of the herds but even that life seemed like a pale ghost of what they were. Time passed, the story of Taka was brushed aside, and the Pridelands forgot. Some of their bloodline moved on, weak of will and patience, and forgot. Yet Ashiki wandered, hopeful, refusing to give up, until at last the Seer came to gather her Queen back to the lands. They had survived their trial, they had remembered their duty, and it was once again time to reclaim what was their birthright.

This is the story of our King and our kingdom. We never forgot, nor will we ever forgive.

The Outlands will begin anew.

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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || The Forgotten Lands || ◈
our home

The Outlands members have taken up a position very close to the original home of their forefathers and are considered to be (mostly) unwanted neighbors by the Pridelands, located just south of their unwilling sister pride. The towers of buzzing termite mounds (a nuisance that generally deters most other lions) is the barrier between their lands and those of their golden brethren. These skyscrapers are used by the pride members to navigate and are often greeted with warm hearts by those that travel and return home being that they are visible long before the pride lands themselves.

West of the termite mounds is a large desert of rolling dunes, filled with deep gorges and canyons that give way to rising cliffs jutting out from the golden sands. Along the desert's south side where it butts into the more fertile lands of the crossing rivers, the pride makes its home in caves and upon stone outcrops. These are made of hard, red and banded rock, weathered by years of water and rain.

South of the desert and the fertile rivers is the Savannah - this is where most of their hunters travel to get food for the pride and is the only direction from which to access their pride heart with any ease.

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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || The Way of Life || ◈
our culture

The Ukuhlwa'Izwe, more commonly referred to as The Outlands, is the rebirth of the old pride Awatupa'Viwanja. The original incarnation of the pride in Shadows of Africa was founded by the scions of Scar, Serafina and Tahka, who were the children of his daughter, Tiah. Scar himself actually died in the plague that swept through The Pridelands in one of the shop's very first metaplots and thus never saw his descendants bring the pride to fruition (but they believe he would be very, very proud). Serafina ruled the pride for a time and then the throne was passed onto her younger half-sister, Ashiki, also of Tiah's and Scar's bloodline. She ruled through the great earthquakes that shook the world and saw the greatest tragedy befall them since their creation - a very important migration route was cut off due to debris and they were starved out of their pride lands and forced to turn rogue to survive. It has taken many years but the Outlands has recovered, the prey beasts have returned, and Ashiki has decided it is time to begin anew. The call has been carried far and wide by other members, beckoning their brethren home once more.

Although he never technically belonged to the pride, they are unerringly loyal to Scar's memory and to his cause. All those that live in The Outlands or seek to join are either his direct descendants or supporters of the idea that it was Scar and not Mufasa that should have inherited the throne of the Pridelands. Their opinions may vary when it comes to the minute details, as will their distaste for Pridelanders as a whole, but that one fact can not be disputed among pride members openly. To claim Scar and his bloodline are not the true heirs to the Pridelands within earshot of any true blooded Outlander is heresy and cause for exile, if you're lucky.

Their belief in the protocol of inheritance has trickled down into all aspects of their life and they have become a very strict pride with a rather militaristic flair. One does not step out of line or disrespect their members or their rules, one does not attempt to change or defy their rules, and one does not expect to be forgiven for trespasses against their system. If your lion can't follow rules and operate within a systematic environment then the Outlands is no place for them - their culture is not as sweet and kind as their unwilling sister pride and they will not take kindly to those that wish to upset tradition.

Scar's blood must always hold the throne.

◈ Government and Structure ◈

The pride is very strict about the progression of their members from cub to adult and they take great lengths to train and teach them in all aspects of what it means to belong to The Outlands. Their lions are meant to be as tough as the canyon rocks, as unforgiving as the shifting sands, and as regal as the towers that loom above them. The pridal structure itself is broken up into three categories: The Royal Family, the Three-Fold-System, and the Unsorted roles


I. The first, and arguably most important category, is the Royal Family. This consists of the current Monarch, their heir, and any of their cubs. If an heir is old enough to produce cubs before they take the throne, their litters will be included in this category and their eldest will be named 'Heir Apparent'. Once a litter has reached adolescence they will be entered into the three-fold-system (although generally still referred to as a prince or princess) unless they are the eldest and named heir. In addition to the Monarch, Heir and Cubs is the Monarch's mate - the Consort. Although they are not forbidden to hold any ranks within the pride, the Consort is not required to participate in the three-fold-system while their mate is alive if they do not wish to.

If a Monarch dies, their Heir will inherit the throne immediately and all royal cubs of their predecessor and the Consort will be demoted to regular pride members.

II. The second category is the Three-Fold-System. This is their tried and true method for sorting all members into their most useful roles within the pride. Each branch of the system is led by a Vizier that is considered to be a living, physical extension of the current monarch - The Monarch's Claw, The Monarch's Soul, and The Monarch's Mind. Each Vizier may only ever serve a single Monarch and will lose their position as soon as the throne is passed on; generally this means they will retire to a position called 'Wise One' unless they otherwise choose to devote themselves to the pride and opt back into the Three-Fold-System.


- Military: These lions are the battle-hungry warriors who do anything from training and hunting to guarding and battling. They are the most physical and the greatest assets to the pride's offense and defense. Every adolescent and new pride member (who does not show prior battle experience) will be required to serve a three month term at the beginner's level of the Military, no matter what branch of the system they eventually choose. For adolescents, they will graduate out once they grow to adult.

- Clergy: These are the religious members of the pride whose job it is to interpret and pass on the will of the ancestors through a study of the stars and general astronomy. It also includes tried and true seers but never, ever gods (because they do not recognize their authority). In addition to interpretation of the ancestor's will, certain ranks will also sit trial with the Monarch and the Monarch's Soul to determine the fate of those who trespass against pride tradition.

- Academy: The studied, thoughtful members of the pride who are responsible for anything in the realm of study. This includes, but is not limited to, teachers, strategists, and record keepers. They are the primary source of information for the entire pride and spend a great deal of their time educating cubs for the future to ensure that ignorance does not rum rampant.


III. The third and final category is for the Unsorted Roles. This is the category that all cubs will begin in and, when it is necessary, the category that disgraced pride members may temporarily or permanently end back up in.

◈ Religion and Death ◈

Religion in the Outlands is a bit a of misnomer. It comes in two parts - the circle of life and a particular sort of faith termed ancestor worship. They do not believe in gods in any form and take comfort only from the will and wisdom of those that have come before them. Unlike the Pridelands who once claimed that only the kings and queens of their realm would gain membership, the Outlands have always and will always believe that any lion that lives a respectful, dutiful life will be rewarded with their place among the stars.

Due to their belief of ancestors among the stars, the Outlands often names stars after their deceased ancestors and large constellations will often be named after their most renowned warriors and monarchs. Typically the greater a lion's ranking, the larger their star tribute. It is the job of the Clergy (and somewhat the Academy) to memorize these tributes so that they are not forgotten and all ancestors are remembered with the proper honor.

Not uncommonly, specific lines and families may look up to their own family ancestors with greater reverence than those of other lineages and often will reuse the names of the deceased for new Broodlings. However, if a lion was renowned for something specific in life (ie: killing a great threat, saving an important member of the pride, or being particularly fertile) then a lion of any family may seek their wisdom and guidance.

Scar is the one lion whose star tribute is honored by all and the one lion whose name may not be used in future Broodling litters - there will never be another Taka.


Prayer
Lions may seek to pray alone or may ask a member of the Clergy for their guidance. There are no idols and no physical manifestations of worship ever allowed - the ancestors are beings without physical boundaries and to assume they want anything of the mortal world is to deny them their right as a being beyond mortal concept.

Prayer is typically done in a wide open field, over a large watering hole, or atop a tall cliff. The point is simply that it is somewhere that a lion feels they can be at peace with the stars and those that came before, uninterrupted.


Death
When a lion dies, there is a seven day period of mourning over the deceased. The day-to-day schedule varies between families but there are several rules that may not be broken during this period:

• No duels can be initiated by or against a member of the family.
  
• The pride will provide food for the family.
  
• Any member of the family will be excused from duties.
  
• Any trial against a member of the family will be postponed.
  
• If there is an exiled member of the family, they may return to the pride for that seven days (if they make it in time).


On the first day of death, the family member is taken to an isolated cliff that overlooks the river. At last light on the seventh day, the body is left alone and no one may return to the cliff until the next pride member passes away. This cliff is where the bodies of ancestors are consumed by the circle of life (vultures and scavengers mostly) in full view of the ancestors that have passed before them so that they may be inducted properly into the stars beyond.

◈ Day-to-Day Life ◈

Beyond religion, the Outlands has a very particular culture based in respect, renown and the physical being. They are very battle oriented due to their belief in pushing the physicality of the mortal being AND being ready to eliminate threats to their throne and way of life. More than that, and perhaps due to Mufasa's traitorous theft of the throne, they have a peculiar sense of honor that extends to their family and pride above all others. This means that within the pride they do not believe in crossing one another or sabotaging their pride's way of life in any way that could be deemed disrespectful.

Their behavior outside of the pride towards non-members is an entirely different and unregulated story. Outsiders, and particularly Pridelanders, may find them to be a surly, aggressive type of lion. Whatever they do and whatever fights they pick beyond pride borders with non-members is no concern of their pride - other creatures should know how to take care of themselves and if not, well, they'd better learn.


Absolute Oaths
Due to their devotion to one another, it is not uncommon for pride members to swear oaths to one another. These oaths should not be taken lightly - they are considered unbreakable once they are made and violating them may be as serious as being taken to court and having one's soul judged by the Clergy.

Oaths can take many forms and be spoken for many reasons, but all absolute oaths will be sealed with the phrase: By blood and bone.

Some common oaths are as follows:

• Marriage
  
• Repayment of debt (being saved or aided by another pride member)
  
• Repayment of honor (in instances where accidental dishonor has been incurred)
  
• Attempts to incite trust/prove loyalty

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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || The Scars from Our Claws || ◈
our honor

As previously mentioned, the lions in the Outlands are based in physicality and strength. Due to this, battling is a matter of honor and pride among Outlanders to the point that it is used as a method of ranking, dispute resolution, and may even be the end result of a trial. They believe in the strength of the body and of the claw - it is the only thing that separates them as mortal beings from the ancestors above and it would be a waste of their life not to push it to the fullest while it is theirs.

Duels
Duels may be initiated for any number of reasons, from plain boredom to personal squabbles among pride members. If one refuses a duel, the pride will generally look upon said lion with a certain level of disrespect and disappointment since refusing to fight is generally not in their nature, even for members that are not a part of the Military structure.


Rules and Regulations

• The dueling system we use will be 5 rolls of 6 sided die. You may roll these all in the beginning post or you may roll each one individually, it does not matter how or when it is done, only that there are 5 rolls with 6 sided die.
  
• For a duel to count toward any purpose in the pride it absolutely must be completed, meaning at least 5 posts by each person with the posts filled out (no placeholders or one-liners).
  
• You may only participate in ONE duel per MEMBER that you own at a time and you may not start another for that member until the first is completed. This is primarily to prevent people from abusing the system. As a failsafe, if a duel takes longer than a month to complete then you may begin another and finish the first at any point.


There is a very specific system within the pride to allow any and all members to gain respect and renown after time spent competing in (and in theory) winning duels. This system is not limited to Military members since ALL members should be familiar with battling and war. With your membership post (recorded in the memberlist thread) you will keep track of your lion's dueling points. The points are awarded as follows:

• For every duel your lion wins, no matter by how much, you will get 2 points.
  
• For every MAJOR scar your lion incurs, they will get 1 point. This must be recorded in a duel. To suffer a MAJOR SCAR in a duel there must be (3) six-point dice rolled AND KEPT by your opponent. Your lion may not accumulate more than one point-scar per duel.
  
• For every (3) MINOR scars your lion incurs, they will get 1 point. This must be recorded in a duel. To suffer a MINOR SCAR in a duel there must be (3) four-or-greater-point dice rolled AND KEPT by your opponent. Your lion may not accumulate more than one point-scar per duel which means to get three minor scars there must be at least three duels.


After a lion wins a certain amount of points, they begin to accrue BONUSES in their dueling battles that are meant to be a direct translation of the skills and renown they have learned in character. This means that ICly, they are expected to out perform those with fewer points and lesser rankings! Your points MUST be recorded in your membership post with links to support them in order to use your bonuses accordingly. At this time, these are the bonuses the pride offers:

• At 10 points, your lion will be able to roll ( 6 ) six-sided die and may keep the top 5 rolls.
  
• At 20 points, your lion will be able to roll ( 7 ) six-sided die and may keep the top 5 rolls.
  
• At 30 points, your lion will be able to roll ( 8 ) six-sided die and may keep the top 5 rolls.
  
• At 40 points, your lion will be able to roll ( 9 ) six-sided die and may keep the top 5 rolls.
  
• At 50 points, your lion will be able to roll ( 10 ) six-sided die and may keep the top 5 rolls.
  
  ADDITIONALLY: At 50 points, your lion will now earn the right to add 'Exalted' to their rank name. (ie: Exalted Claw, Exalted Eye, Exalted Guide)
  
  • Any rank (other than Unbranded, Tarnished, and Broodling) can earn the Exalted title and will carry it with them if they rank up or down.
    
  • Unbranded may not earn the Exalted title until they graduate from the rank but they may begin earning points in the duel system and carry them on to their next rank.
    
  • Tarnished can't earn dueling points, participate in duels, earn the Exalted title, or keep their title while Tarnished. It is possible to regain their title after their sentence is served but it will be dependent on each circumstance and the plot.
  
  
• Titles - For every 50 points your member earns, they may claim ONE title. Much like the titles that royalty carries, these are used to denote lineage, accomplishments and power. To claim a title, please PM this mule with a link to your membership post (you MUST have records for all 50 points). Your chosen title should have some relevance to your character.
  
  Example 1 - Bob has reached 50 points and in his past he killed an unbranded denying the Ancestors that had escaped the Clergy before sentencing. He is now known as Bob, the Exalted Claw, Slayer of Heretics.
  Example 2 - Bob has reached 100 points, since his last benchmark he led a war party to challenge and defeat a group of Pridelanders hunting in the Outlands territory. He is now known as Bob, the Exalted Claw, Slayer of Heretics and Champion of Scar.
  
  Additionally, certain event-specific titles may be given out in pride events and meta plots.
  
  When a lion dies, they will be remembered by their ancestors with their titles so that they take on an almost legendary status. It is not uncommon for the stories pertaining to their titles to become family legends told as part of their ancestor worship.



(DISCLAIMER: Please note that we reserve the right to add to, alter, or remove any bonus as the pride grows larger and the system is tested. Additionally, these bonuses ONLY count toward duels within the pride lands and are not shop-wide unless this use of the system is agreed upon by the other dueling party. Even if the dice system is used outside of pride lands, only duels WITHIN pride borders will count toward point accumulation.)


Military Service
As previously mentioned, all adolescents and SOME new members will be required to serve in the military for a period of (3) Months. For adolescents, this is the time it would take for them to age up to their adult stage. For new members, there are TWO ways that they can opt out of this if they so choose and the opportunity is applicable to them:

• Scars - If they have proof of battle scars, it is enough to skip both the military service and duel requirement. These scars MUST be present on their official lineart (obtained through the shop or an official mini-shop) at the time of their joining. Scars are seen as badges of honor among pride members and are proof that a lion has gone to battle and survived.
  
• Duel - A joining lion may use the duel system and fight a basic level member (ie: a member with no accrued bonuses) but they must win. Losing will not prevent membership, it will simply necessitate that they serve three months as an Unbranded.
  **These Duels DO count toward the dueling point system.**

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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || The Blood and The Bond || ◈
our family

In days of old, flings were considered something of a no-no and accidents were corrected by forced marriages. During their travel in the rogue lands, Ashiki and her kin have realized both that marriages do not always end well and the blood of Scar and their founders must always continue if they hope to keep their ancestors placated. It may be a sore point among their older members but Ashiki has decided that with this founding, marriages are not prerequisites to having cubs and that those who do not wish to tie themselves should not be required to do so.

This change does not negate a parent from the responsibility of raising their cubs nor does it mean that reckless abandon will go unchecked. While the Academy will be primarily responsible for educating their Broodlings and the Military will be primarily responsible for training their Unbranded, each parent is solely responsible for teaching their offspring the importance of family, honor and loyalty. Any parent found to be neglecting their parental duties can face trial for neglect and any parent found to be spreading themselves too thin by procreating recklessly may earn the ire of the pride around them.


Marriage
Marriage is still treated as the ultimate form of loyalty within the pride but is suggested only for their older members that are certain of their hearts and ambitions. It is a commitment to binding two lions together to create a new family that will, in essence, combine two lines of ancestors for the greater good of their descendants. It is not to be treated lightly and is considered to be a very tough choice.

Regulations

• Marriages are primarily for the benefit of the two lions committing to their bond but must be performed in the presence of a Clergy member (any rank will do) to mark it in their family history and ensure it is not forgotten (additionally, it must be recorded in your membership post).
  
• An absolute oath must be taken, including the words "By Blood and Bone".
  
• Each marriage is defined by the lions entering it and they may lay their own foundations for what they expect out of one another during the ceremony, binding it with this oath.
  
• It is not necessary for them to be of opposite sex.
  
• It is not a requirement that they are monogamous UNLESS that is included in the marriage vows.


Breaking any oath made to one another during a marriage is cause for trial before the Monarch & Clergy. It is taken that seriously and your lion would do well to remember such. For this reason, young lions that choose to take an oath will be looked upon oddly and NO adolescent may take an oath before they have graduated beyond the rank of the Unbranded.


The One Rule
Although many things have changed for the pride in terms of breeding and marriage, there is one absolute rule that must be obeyed by all members without question:

NO HYBRIDS.

Non-lions are not honored in the pride, they are not cared for by the ancestors, and diluting an Outlander's bloodline with a lesser being is a cause for treason. Hybrids themselves are considered abominations for their tainted blood and their general inability to procreate and no lion of the Outlands is ever expected to treat them with kindness and absolutely forbidden from partaking in activities that will create them.

If a male has fathered hybrids outside of the pride and has been found out, he will be exiled. If a female gives birth to hybrids inside of the pride, she will be exiled and any pride member is given permission to try and kill the halflings.

(Obviously we will not power play cub murder so if you would like to plot a lioness having a hybrid litter, please reach out to a pride owner but do not abuse this just because. Additionally, we will not tolerate 'secret births' or 'secret litters' as a plot device - you either inform us or you do not pursue a hybrid litter.)

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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || The Binding Laws || ◈
our obedience

Crimes come in all shapes and sizes in the Outlands but are generally categorized as either a matter of dishonor or a matter of treason. Punishment can vary depending on the type and severity of the crime but the one constant in any matter is the Court and the necessity for a lion to have his or her honor weighed by the Clergy and (in serious instances) the leaders.

Each Court hearing is done in the presence of several Clergy members, always including at least (1) Justice and/or The Monarch's Soul. In instances of great dishonor or treason, this will also include the Monarch themselves. Generally, however, The Monarch's Soul is accepted as an extension of the Monarch and thus capable of making the decision that the Monarch would themselves. If you find out your hearing is to take place with the Monarch in attendance, you have royally fudged up.

If you wish to have your lion stand trial as part of a plot device, please contact one of the Pride Owners or the owner of an appropriately ranked Clergy member.

Hearings and Punishment
As previously stated, punishment varies depending on the type of crime that has been committed, as does the lion that will preside over the judgement.

Minor Crimes - Reviewed by at least (1) Justice

These are the most common types of crimes among Outlands. Minor crimes include, but are not limited to: Minor disrespect toward other pride members, failure to perform parental duties, or failure to perform pridal duties. Repeated minor crime offenders may find themselves judged more harshly.

If found guilty for a minor crime, a lion can expect a variety of small punishments such as fighting a duel against the lion they have disrespected (or their chosen champion in instances where they are no longer capable) or losing their hard-earned battle ranks (points).


Intermediate Crimes - Reviewed by at least (1) Justice and The Monarch's Soul

These are less common in the Outlands and are where things start to get serious for pride members. Intermediate Crimes include, but are not limited to: Major disrespect toward other pride members, cheating in battle, or breaking small absolute oaths. Repeated intermediate crime offenders may find themselves judged more harshly.

If found guilty for an intermediate crime, a lion can expect a variety of medium punishments such as fighting a duel against the lion they have disrespected (or their chosen champion in instances where they are no longer capable), being stripped of hard-earned battle ranks (points), or being temporarily demoted to the rank of Tarnished.

If a lion breaks a Marriage vow they will always be demoted to at least (3) months as a Tarnished and may be awarded a more unique punishment equivalent to the vow they have broken if the presiding Clergy member sees fit.


Major Crimes - Reviewed by at least (1) Justice, The Monarch's Soul and the Monarch themselves.

These are really the sorts of crimes your lion does not want to commit. These include, but are not limited to: Major disrespect to the royal family, willing creation of hybrids, endangering the pride or another pride member, and all acts of determined treason. It may also include very serious breaches of an absolute oath (such as those made to a royal family member or sworn upon the ancestors). A lion will not get a chance to be a repeated major crime offender.

If a lion commits a Major Crime, the punishment is always severe. This includes but is not limited to exile (temporary or permanent), a lengthy or permanent term as a Tarnished, or possibly even a death sentence. Do not commit a major crime lightly.


The Tarnished
The tarnished is a very specific but (usually) temporary ranking among Outlanders. It is reserved almost specifically for those that commit crimes against the pride and will always be doled out after an official hearing witnessed by the Clergy.

Tarnished pride members are used as work mules by other members of the pride and may not utter a single word during the duration of their sentencing. Refusing a task or speaking may lengthen the term OR cause a member to be exiled from the lands.

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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || The System that Guides Us || ◈
our ranks

[The Royal Family]
All those that inherit the blood of Taka are held in high esteem, however, the line that inherits is revered the most.


• The Monarch - Queen Ashiki (Scion of Taka, Daughter of Tiah, She of the Eternal Faith, Binder of Oaths); Felyn
  The Monarch of the pride is a direct heir of Taka's line. In the event that they were to reclaim the Pridelands, they would take the throne back in the name of their ancestor. There is no gender requirement, only that of blood. Their bloodline and accomplishments are immensely important to them since they do not believe in Kings or Queens taking a throne without proof of greatness and over time they will add more flair to their names that denotes this. Often they begin only with the titles of their heritage and claim to the blood. To earn a new title, it must be bestowed upon them by one or more of their Viziers.
  
  
• The Crown Prince - Kethiwe; Felyn
  The Crown Prince or Princess is usually, but not always, a child of the current monarch and by right of birth should be the eldest of their litter. They are typically chosen in adolescence and subjected to rigorous training with all three of the current Viziers. They may begin to earn titles from the Monarch's Viziers at this stage though it is not common. In the event that the Monarch dies, they will be crowned and sometimes may inherit certain titles from their predecessor such as 'Scion of Taka'.
  
  The Heir Apparent - NONE
  
  
  
• Princes/Princesses - Amachwane (???); Azisa (???); Isigidi (???)
  A Prince or Princess is a child of the current Monarch that is NOT the heir to the throne. Although they will enjoy this title throughout the reign of their mother or father, they will lose it and be shuffled into a pride role once a new monarch is chosen. Although all blood of Taka is important to them as a whole, only the direct line of the Monarch will be revered. For this reason, it is wise for all princes and princesses to find their place before their parent passes on.
  
  
• Consort - Ska; *Greenie
  The mate of a Monarch is considered to be a part of the royal family by the choice of the Monarch themselves but, in the event that the throne is passed on or the Monarch dies, they mean very little to the pride apart from being a vessel from which their line has continued.




[The Viziers]
The Viziers are an appointed council, considered to be an extension of the Head Monarch in their respective field of expertise. They are always chosen by the King or Queen themselves and should be respected above all others except the actual Monarch. They can only be replaced in two instances: death of the Vizier themselves OR death of the Monarch, as no Vizier may be considered an extension of two different Monarchs.


• The Monarch's Claw - Ebbe; KasaiLoki
  The Claw of the Monarch is the leader of his or her warriors. They are the ultimate General in a time of war and oversee the training of every member of the pride. They are the Monarch's consult on all things related to battle and combat.
  
  Apprentices: NONE
  
  
  
• The Monarch's Soul - Katiti'manina; Krysin
  The Faith of the Monarch is the leader of his or her priests. They are the interpreter of the stars, ancestors, and those that came before. They are the Monarch's consult on all things related to the will of the Circle and are directly responsible for any failures to interpret future tragedy.
  
  Apprentices: 1. Marionet-dido (*Greenie); 2. n/a
  
  
  
• The Monarch's Mind - Shetani; MangoMeow
  The Mind of the Monarch is the leader of his or her scholars. They are the keeper of oral record, master of strategy, and expert of diplomacy. They are the Monarch's consult on political decisions, history, and may be the most important advisor in the Monarch's arsenal as they navigate their role as ruler.
  
  Apprentices: NONE
  
  
  
• Wise Ones - Retired Viziers
  Wise Ones are only created when a Monarch dies or passes on their throne. Their Viziers will then enjoy a life of peace as a sign of respect for their service although they are not required to go into retirement if they would prefer to re-enter the Three-Fold-System and commit themselves to their pride once more. These lions are generally taken care of by other members.
  
  Retirees: NONE




[The Military]
The Military is led by The Monarch's Claw, who answers directly to the Monarch themselves. Beneath them are the variously ranked warriors, hunters and fighting positions. All members of the pride are required to train with The Military unless they have prior fighting knowledge.


• Claws - Generals (1 per every 5 Scars OR Shields)
  These are the Generals that report to The Monarch's Claw and their numbers are determined by how many active Scars (warriors) are within the pride itself. They are responsible for carrying out the orders of the Monarch's claw which may be anything from war tactics to training drills.
  
  Members of This Rank: Azzan (Felyn);
  
  
  
• Scars - Warriors & Hunters (unlimited)
  Adults may take on the rank of warrior and become Scars, called such as both a great honor to the warrior Taka himself but, too, because scars are the pride of those who endure battles and hunts. There is no distinction truly made between warriors and hunters as they both require similar skills. Any lion that wishes to become a Claw, apprentice or even The Monarch's Claw must first be a Scar.
  
  Members of This Rank: Majuto* (Krysin); Nokhalo* (Vesale); Waarheid* (Andranis); Hazina (Andranis); Zawadi (Andranis); Ajani (MangoMeow)
  
  
  
• Shields - Guards & Scouts (unlimited; default adult rank)
  Shields, while not the most glorious rank of The Military, are still a valuable part of their system as the first line of defense against outside attacks. They are responsible for patrolling the borders, investigating odd occurrences on the outskirts of their lands, and maintaining scent markers that would deflect would-be wanderers from entering the borders uninvited.
  
  Members of This Rank: Aithne (Felyn); Tahani; (Tonberry Queen X); Yaya'Uqui (Tonberry Queen X); Hapana (ChaosTheories);
  
  
  
• The Unbranded - Adolescent/New Member default rank (unlimited; required)
  This rank is reserved for cubs who age up to adolescence OR for new members who join the pride but have no evidence of battle scars/battle training. The purpose of this rank is to force all would-be weaker links to endure rigorous combat training and make the pride stronger as a whole. The minimum required time in this rank is three months (adolescents will automatically age out of it at adult).
  
  Members of This Rank: Jhosef (Peppermint Coffee); Inam'Ul Haqq (Peppermint Coffee); Tamda (Safaia); Dev'May (Chi Honda); Miulau (Chi Honda); Siri (Silver Lutz); Mdalasini (Silver Lutz); Caia (KasaiLoki); Nisime (ChaosTheories); Gizi (Alpaca Chobi); Mtambaazi (Alpaca Chobi); Nuwayrah bint Tyrngah (Alpaca Chobi); Ngozi (Uta); Zawadi (Ruler of Everything); Harufu (Lightning Shadow X)




[The Clergy]
The Clergy is led by The Monarch's Soul, who answers directly to the Monarch themselves. Beneath them are the variously ranked religious members of the pride whose responsibility it is to determine and give voice to the will of the ancestors. Although these are very prestigious and valued ranks, it should be noted that they are not to be taken on lightly. In times of trouble, they may earn the ire of the pride for not passing on the proper warnings. It should be noted as well that religion to the Outlanders is not typical to other prides. (For more information, see the Way of Life post.)


• Justices - Appraiser of the Soul (1 per every 5 Scryers OR Vessels)
  In cases where a lion has committed a trespass against the pride, a Justice will be called upon to attend their trial and advise the Monarch and The Monarch's Soul on the judgement of their error. As masters of ancestor interpretation, it is their job to judge how serious the crime is and though they do not always pass the final judgement, their input will greatly influence the Monarch's decision.
  
  Members of This Rank: NONE
  
  
  
• Scryers - Interpreter of the Stars (unlimited)
  After many years of tragedy, the Monarch and Viziers have decided to take an active roll in interpreting the will of the ancestors. Scryers are responsible for memorizing, mapping and interpreting the movement and map of the stars.
  
  Members of This Rank: Kufutwa* (KasaiLoki); Utajiri (Adranis)
  
  
  
• Vessels - True Seers (unlimited but with prerequisites)
  Vessels are shop-recognized seers, lions in the pride that have a penchant for being able to accurately predict or recall events that no mortal soul would otherwise have known. They are called thus because they are considered to be mortal vessels through which the ancestors make their wills known. To become a vessel one must prove themselves to The Monarch's Soul.
  
  Members of This Rank: Conlaodh (Safaia); Daucallion (Tonberry Queen X);




[The Academy]
The Academy is led by The Monarch's Mind, who answers directly to the Monarch themselves. Beneath them are the variously ranked academic members of the pride who are committed primarily to diplomacy and knowledge. They are sometimes considered to be the least physical members of the pride but outsiders should have no doubt of their prowess as they are still trained to take up a warrior's mantle should the need arise. Additionally, they are responsible for the education of younger generations and that is not always such an easy feat with rowdy Broodlings.


• Consuls - Diplomats (1 per every 5 Keepers, Eyes OR Guides)
  Consuls are the crème de la crème of Keepers, the lions of the pride who are best versed in history, lore and the intricacies that have defined the Outlands over time. In times of decision, they will be called upon by The Monarch's Mind to help consult with the Monarch and may also be sent as ambassadors on minor missions outside of the pride.
  
  Members of This Rank: Kidogo'Bawa (Safaia);
  
  
  
• Keepers - Masters of Pride Knowledge (unlimited; must first study as an Eye)
  Keepers are those that have committed their life to learning all that they can about The Outlands, the world, and their place in it. As a rule of thumb, they are the best versed members in pride lore, tradition, and law. They are essentially the walking, talking books of the Outlands.
  
  Members of This Rank: NONE
  
  
  
• Eyes - Gatherers of Knowledge (unlimited; prerequisite to Keepers)
  Eyes are members of the pride that work in tandem with Shields and Claws (for safety) as they study the borders, herd patterns, and important things that affect the pride beyond the safety of the pride's heart. They are akin to scouts in other prides but are required to answer to Keepers so that their knowledge may be retained in oral records and passed on to the Clergy and Military. A lion must practice as an Eye for six months before they can graduate to a Keeper.
  [Members of This Rank: Oarona* (ChaosTheories)
  
  
• Guides - Teachers & Nannies (unlimited)
  Guides are the lions of the pride that have devoted their life to teaching the younger generations who they are and what they stand for. As a rule of thumb, they are also nannies, as they spend the majority of their day watching and guiding the cubs of lions that are fulfilling other roles. They are often fond in the company of Eyes and Keepers so that they can share the role of lecturing the fresh minds on their pridal knowledge.
  Members of This Rank: Zakiya (Krysin); Eve (MangoMeow)




[The Unsorted]
These are the unsorted lions in roles that do not belong (yet) to one of the three systems.


• Broodlings - Default Cub Rank (unlimited)
  These are the cubs of the pride, typically found in the care of a Guide or their parents. They are cared for with delicacy as they are the future of the Outlands. Once they reach adolescence, they will automatically become one of the Unbranded and subject to vigorous training.
  
  Members of This Rank: Telal (Felyn); Anikki (Tonberry Queen X); ; Marama (ChaosTheories); Dafari (Ecavi); Senka (- Mynsed -)



• The Tarnished - Disgraced Pride Members (unlimited; plot required)
  For one reason or another, these lions have temporarily or permanently been removed from service and demoted to a life of thankless labors. They are often assistants to Guides or Shields and will not often be allowed outside of the pride borders. They may only be condemned to this rank through a trial and may eventually earn back enough grace to be brought into the folds of the three systems once more.
  
  Members of This Rank: Chausika (Z o m b i k ii);





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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

◈ || Petition the Monarch || ◈
join us

Joining is OPEN for the I/T! However, before you copy that form down there and fill it out, I do have a few rules and regulations that I need you to understand and follow.


• The Outlands is a LION ONLY pride. (Hybrids do not count and will be killed on sight)
  
• New members will be assessed for their battle experience. They will never be turned away but losing a duel will require them to serve as an Unbranded (the default adolescent rank) for three months while they learn how to fight. They can opt out of this if they have shop art with scars.
  
• Returning members do not have to submit to a duel, they may simply choose a rank so long as it can be proved they were in the original pride OR they are a 'Gen 1' (in terms of not having official parents) and you would like to plot them as being original blood. For the later, please contact Felyn so we can work it out!
  
• There are NO color restrictions, although naturals (especially dark ones) are most traditional and preferred. Please try not to add an overwhelming amount of color!


Lastly, if you would like to apply for a Vizier position OR one of the top ranks in the three-fold-system (claw, justice, or consul) you may note that on your joining form but please choose one of the basic ranks that does not have a prerequisite. The pride will ABSOLUTELY be choosing higher ranks right out of the I/T but due to the nature of the system it requires us to have a certain number of members at the basic rank before I can determine how many we need at the higher ranks.

Now that we've got that out of the way, let's get this party started! If you would like to join, copy and paste this form below.

[size=18][b][color=#983217]By Blood and Bone[/color][/b][/size]
[b]Lion's Name[/b]:
[b]Owner's Name[/b]:
[b]Returning or New Member[/b]:
[b]Desired Rank[/b]: If your lion will require a duel, please put UNBRANDED - DUEL DESIRED.
[b]Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking?[/b] Yes or No & tell me what rank!
[b]Image:[/b][img]CERT URL HERE[/img]
[spoiler][img]UNCERT URL HERE[/img][/spoiler]

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[Ukuhlwa Izwe]

...and, open!

<3  

[Krysin]

By Blood and Bone
Lion's Name: Katiti'manina
Owner's Name: Krysin
Returning or New Member: Returning
Desired Rank: Monarch's Soul
Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking? >: ) she is
Image:

show spoilerhide spoiler

By Blood and Bone
Lion's Name: Majuto
Owner's Name: Krysin
Returning or New Member: Returning
Desired Rank: Scar -> General (future)
Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking? Yes (though not necessary).
Image:

show spoilerhide spoiler

By Blood and Bone
Lion's Name: Zakiya
Owner's Name: Krysin
Returning or New Member: Returning
Desired Rank: Guide
Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking? No
Image:

show spoilerhide spoiler

 

[Bronze Coffee]

By Blood and Bone
Lion's Name: Jhosef
Owner's Name: Peppermint Coffee
Returning or New Member: New
Desired Rank: Scar; hunter
Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking? No thanks
Image:

show spoilerhide spoiler

By Blood and Bone
Lion's Name: Inam'ul Haqq
Owner's Name: Peppermint Coffee
Returning or New Member: New
Desired Rank: Scar; hunter
Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking? No thanks
Image:

show spoilerhide spoiler

 

[chi honda]

By Blood and Bone
Lion's Name: Dev'May
Owner's Name: chi honda
Returning or New Member: new member
Desired Rank: UNBRANDED - DUEL DESIRED.
Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking? Sure.
Image:



By Blood and Bone
Lion's Name: Miulau
Owner's Name: chi honda
Returning or New Member: new member
Desired Rank: UNBRANDED - DUEL DESIRED.
Would you like the opportunity for this lion to be high ranking? Sure.
Image: