ARROW REDESIGNED 03: LEAGUE FIELD TRAINING
Story Author's Notes:
The Arrow Redesigned AU plot bunny attacked me when I was beyond frustrated with the character portrayal on Arrow. I revisit as when I need for a happier trio. The Arrowverse is not the DCU. I know this, but that doesn't mean I like all the decisions the Arrow writers made. This is not a Revenge Fic. There are no basic canon S3 flashbacks in this part. Minor and Major DCU characters are used. This perspective shift is to show the training, not show DCU characters in a positive light.
Part 03 is the third part of MY AU. The Trio completed League basic training. Now they are separated and sent to complete their field training. Each has a different focus for their training. Oliver is training his sight. Laurel is training her technology aptitude. Thomas is training his leadership. They each encounter different obstacles and challenges.
Remember that the League is DIFFERENT. Ra's al Ghul is DIFFERENT. Check out part X to read more about my world building for the League. The training is brutal. Realistically, it is not much different from joining any military branch… including the indoctrination part.
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For reference:
One of the main things I did with this AU was change the timeline and alter the past. This is my vision of these characters. Part X details the AU differences. The characters' attitudes are different. Read parts 1-4 for the main differences. Each are updated before each new story is posted.
The ages of our main characters are different in this series. The yacht departed in Jun (not Sep). Part 3 is the start of their second year lost.
[Part 1 (June-Dec 2012): Oliver, Laurel, and Tommy are 20. Thea is 11. Sara is 17.]
[Part 2 (Jan-Jun 2013): Oliver, Laurel, and Tommy are 21. Thea is 12. Sara is 18.]
[Part 3 (Jul-Dec 2013): Oliver, Laurel, and Tommy are 21. Thea is 12. Sara is 19 (Started college).]
League names (or English codenames) are used in speech, but their given names are referenced in text. In this story, they are fully invested in the League. They have been in the League long enough to react instinctively by their new names.
[Oliver: al Sah-him, Arrow]
[Laurel: al Aldire, Shield]
[Thommy (Thomas for this AU): Yad Alqadar, Hand of Fate, Alqadar, Hand, Fate]
Oliver has the Ruya—the sight. This is one way for me to introduce fourth-wall information. This gift allows him to commune with the planet on Nexus points and to see ghosts. He is trained to listen to his intuition to guide him.
World Building of the League of Assassins (The League). The League is MASSIVELY different from both the Arrowverse and DCU. Part X contains details on this version of the League. Most of this culture was introduced in my previous AU stories for this series.
Malcolm Merlyn: I tried to stay true to Malcolm's Arrowverse character more than his DCU version. However, he has several key differences.
[Malcolm disappeared when Rebecca was killed for six years (The League time). He returned when Oliver, Laurel, and Tommy were 14 years old. This significantly impacted Tommy's relationship with Malcolm.]
[Malcolm created Tempest six years before the start of my AU. This is less time to corrupt the city.]
[Malcolm's martial skill have not degraded much in six years. It HAS degraded, just not much (I disagree with making Malcolm OP. To train, challenge, and grow your skill, you need to practice that skill against combatants of that level. He was 20 years out of practice on the show. Unrealistic).]
[Malcolm took six years to earn his martial skill (more realistic time frame). Yes, he was still a Horseman, but that rank is different in this AU. The horseman (Fasir) are not the most skilled fighters. They are the one of the best leaders. There are always at least four Horseman and an Heir (The Hand of the Demon). This is the advising council for Ra's al Ghul. (World Building for the League in Part X).]
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Original Posting: 2022/11/25
Edit: 2024/01/30 (added Laurel and Tommy's training, spelling, grammar)
Edit: 2024/07/13 (enhanced narrative and dialogue, minor text edits, spelling, grammar)
Edit: 2024/11/22 (minor text edits, readability, spelling, grammar)
Edit: 2025/04/21 (minor text edits, readability, updated names in text, spelling, grammar)
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Chapter 1: Arrival
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Speech Notes:
"Normal" – Normal speech in English, if not otherwise noted. Foreign language noted in text. If you don't get it, it is probably an idiom. Let me know and I'll add it to the Acronyms, Terms, and Translations list.
"Italics" – Audio broadcast. Radio or television. Indicates person not physically present talking. Word in italics or bold indicate emphasized word.
-Normal- – Mental speech or telepathy. Used to converse with the Nexus.
Italics – Thoughts. Vision. Internal POV thoughts. POV listed in paragraph. A vision is a long text sequence in Italics.
Underline - Written. This is used for text messages, computer messages, signs, and paper notes or reports. Instead of underlining long paragraphs, I underlined the first part of the paragraph. Assume that the whole thing is written. For written word in foreign language, the language used is noted in the text.
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Chapter Author's Notes:
The trio are separated and sent to three different parts of the world for advanced training. The headers will tell you where and who the trio character is (Laurel, Oliver, Tommy). Dates are roughly in order. Many of the briefings are similar. This is intentional. Most military training starts with the same concept brief and then tailors it to the location. The similarity is comforting to people outside their comfort zone.
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DEMON'S VENOM: PERU, LIMA - LIMA AIRPORT: 4 JUL 2013
SAH-HIM (OLIVER)
The flight from Nanda Parbat was long. It took almost a full day to arrive at Lima, Peru. Oliver and Tayir Alfiniq were too tired to take in their new surroundings. They just blindly followed their new Fasir, al Hamsa.
Al Hamsa was escorting them to their assigned Branch of the League. Daghn al Ghul. The Demon's Venom. They would spend the next six months as apprentices. Their mentors were responsible for their Shadow Warrior training. At the end of six months, they would be Eadi. Shadow Warriors.
This wouldn't be the only training they received. Oliver needed training on his gift. His sight. The Ruya. He wanted a better understanding of his gift. He wanted to understand what he was, how to use it, and how to ensure he could hunt evil with it.
During their first flight, Hamsa directed them to change into civilian clothing. They changed League planes three times during their travel to Lima. They slept poorly, if at all. The lack of sleep caught up to them. They struggled to grab their gear and stumble after their new Fasir.
"Come," Hamsa ordered the two of them one last time as he exited the plane. "We are nearly there." He strode toward a small private vehicle parked at the bottom of the stairs. A man leaned casually against the side of the vehicle, waiting for them.
Oliver followed al Hamsa down to the car. He was exhausted. He struggled with his bags. Tayir was right behind him. They placed their bags in the trunk of the vehicle and climbed in the back seat. Hamsa nodded and then climbed into the passenger side of the car. The other man climbed into the driver's seat.
"Welcome back, al Hamsa," Haraq greeted Hamsa.
"Thank you, Haraq," Hamsa returned the greeting. Haraq served as the second in command for the Venom. When Hamsa was away, Haraq took over his duties. "Take us to the Fort. We will save their orientation for tomorrow."
"It will be done, Fasir," Haraq replied with a slight smile. He started the car and drove into the night.
Lima was still shrouded in darkness. The city sparkled in the early hours of morning. The street lights illuminated the night sky. Oliver and Tayir were too tired to do more than stare blankly out the window. They were just trying to stay awake. They would crash once they arrived.
The car arrived at a parking garage. Al Hamsa and Haraq directed the tired pair towards a concealed tunnel entrance. From there, they shuffled their newest apprentices down into the tunnels beneath the city. Haraq showed them the location of the restroom and their quarters. Then told them to rest. Someone would come get them tomorrow. Well, later today. Until then, they were expected to rest.
Tayir disappeared into his room. Oliver sank onto his bed mat. He pulled off his boots and curled up to sleep. He didn't even take off his clothing.
~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~
DEMON'S HORN: ITALY, ROME - ROME AIRPORT: 4 JUL 2013, 1 PM
ALDIRE (LAUREL)
The flight from Nanda Parbat was short. Only a few hours. Laurel and al Dafdae departed a day later than the other trainees because of length of the trip. They quickly collected their bags and exited the aircraft after their Fasir; al Khafifa. Khafifa was escorting them to their assigned Branch of the League. Qarn al Ghul. The Demon's Horn. She directed them to change into civilian clothing soon after boarding the plane. She warned them they would be exiting the craft in a large airport. A friendly man greeted them at the bottom of the stairs.
"al Khaba, it is good to see you," Khafifa greeted the man with a smile.
"Fasir," Khaba replied with a smile. He walked beside Khafifa toward a small private vehicle parked nearby. "I see we have gained members."
"We have," Khafifa replied. She turned to the two new apprentices. "Secure your baggage," she directed Laurel and Dafdae. "al Khaba will take us to the Temple."
"It will be done," the girls chorused as they moved to secure their gear in the trunk of the car. Khafifa waved them to enter the back seat as she climbed into the front. Khaba started the car.
"Welcome back, Fasir," Khaba said as he started the car.
"I prefer being home," Khafifa replied. "Has all been well here?" she asked.
"Yes, you were not gone long," Khaba replied with a smile. "Some are seeking guidance on planned hunts. Most of the Solstice visions need additional direction."
"They usually do," Khafifa replied with a tired sigh. "I am still glad to be back. If I am away too long, things go wrong," Khafifa said with a smile. "Will you settle the apprentices?" she asked him. "I will collect their mentors."
"I will," Khaba replied.
"Good," Khafifa replied. "It is best to complete orientation quickly. The sooner started, the sooner done."
"It will be done, Fasir," Khaba replied with a slight smile.
Rome was a bright and bustling city. The city glowed in the sunshine. The great monuments bustled with tourist activity. Laurel looked at the passing town with interest. It was so very different from Hong Kong. Al Dafdae sat next to her in fascination.
They arrived at a parking garage not far from the Vatican City entrance. Al Khafifa and al Khaba directed the pair towards a concealed tunnel entrance. They entered the code for entry and ushered Laurel and Dafdae inside before sealing the entrance behind them.
From there, they shuffled their newest apprentices down into the catacombs beneath Rome. Once they had arrived at their destination, al Khaba showed them the location of the restroom and their quarters. They placed their gear in their new rooms.
Al Khaba led them back to the meeting room. "You will both wait here until the Fasir returns," Khaba told them.
"It will be done," they chorused before they sank to the carpeted ground to kneel.
After watching them for a moment, al Khaba departed the room.
They sat in silence for a time before Laurel spoke up. "Is it normal to be excited and afraid at the same time?" she asked her classmate.
"I hope so," Dafdae replied. "Hong Kong was so overwhelming, but I was glad to be outside of Nanda Parbat. This place... It seems quieter than Hong Kong. That quiet... It makes me nervous."
"I get that," Laurel replied. "Hong Kong was overwhelming, but I miss the others. I'm afraid to do this without them."
"You mean Sah-him and Alqadar," Dafdae replied with a nod. She saw how the three of them were constantly together throughout training. Except in Hong Kong. But… Sah-him worked well without them beside him. "You did well in Hong Kong. You did not have them with you then. Sah-him seemed to do well without you both by his side. Even Alqadar operated well for his teacher. I am sure it will be the same here."
"Right," Laurel replied with a grimace. "I... Hong Kong was different. We weren't alone. Not really. I knew they were close by, but this... They are so far from me now. They will be gone for so long."
"You are still not alone," Dafdae replied with a smile. "I am here, but I still want a sperate room," she teased.
Laurel smiled back at her. "You are here. That's a comfort. You can keep your room," she replied with a grin.
Al Khafifa entered the room with two other people. One was a man and one was a woman. Both were wearing League uniforms. The woman had blue piping on her left shoulder pad. The man had red piping.
Laurel and al Dafdae immediately stood erect. Showing their respect for the presence of the Fasir. Al Khafifa nodded to them both.
"You may both relax. Today, I will escort you through the facilities here at the Demon's Horn. It is not often I receive two new apprentices, but the Demon's Horn is the best place for you both. Especially to learn about technology," Khafifa told them with a nod to Laurel. "I have passed your training reports to the mentors, but your training will not start until tomorrow. I will be showing you around the Temple today and the Qas will finish your orientation." She gestured to the man with red piping.
"I am Ikram," the man introduced himself. "I will be training al Dafdae in the Warriors Path. The Majahid. Once you complete your apprenticeship, you will have the fighting skill needed to assume a role as Eadi for any branch." He nodded to the woman next to him.
"I am al Mai," the woman introduced herself. "I am to train al Aldire in the Technology Path. The Hasub. Once you have completed your apprenticeship, you will be a Journeyman Hasub. You will be trained as far as a mentor can assist. Additional training from the outside world may be required. Only experience can enhance your learning from there. You can achieve the rank of Master Hasub after seven years."
"I am al Dafdae," Dafdae introduced herself to her mentor, Ikram.
"I am al Aldire," Laurel introduced. Al Mai nodded at her.
"Again, welcome," al Khafifa said. "You will begin your apprenticeships tomorrow. Meet your mentors here. This is the Meeting Room." When she received nods from the two apprentices. She turned to Ikram and al Mai and dismissed the two mentors. They left the room. "Now, follow," Khafifa told the two apprentices. "We will walk for the facility tour."
Al Khafifa walked around the large Meeting Room. "We will start here. This is the Meeting Room. This is where we gather. Large groups of the Horn will meet in the larger room," Khafifa explained. She pointed to the smaller rooms. "These smaller rooms are also meeting rooms. They are numbered to allow smaller groups to coordinate their meetings. The Qas and groups of Eadi use them for hunts and training."
Al Khafifa led them out of the meeting room to the hallway. She led them to the area reserved for the Qas. "This is our Sacred Place. Our Qas keep this place. It is for all of us to use. We have five Qas here at the Demon's Horn. Qas Ghataa is the oldest. Qasisa Tawaraa is his second. Qas Taena, Qasisa Katm, and Qasisa Waqa' are also our Qas.
"The Qas maintain our library. This includes all information about past hunts from all branches, historical information, information from the outside world on specific topics, like technology, languages, and history. They have resources and computers for you to use while typing your reports," Khafifa told them. She pointed out the rooms for the computer stations. "If you have any questions, the Qas will answer your questions. When you have completed a hunt, you will report to me and file a report. These computers are available for this purpose. The Qas will ensure it is filed properly. A Qas will complete your orientation today after our tour of the Temple." The three of them left the Sacred Place and followed Khafifa.
"This..." Khafifa said as her arms took in the large room. "...is our Dining Area. Every Shadow Warrior is in the duty rotation. The Support Staff ensure we eat, we have clothes, we have weapons, and the common areas are clean. Your duty rotation will assist the Support Staff in these duties. The only ones exempt from rotation are those recovering from injury. All members of the Horn are on duty rotation for the kitchen, security, and laundry."
"If you are in residence at the Temple, you are in rotation. As apprentices, you will not be tasked with security, but I will task you with other duties. Here..." he pointed to a board on the wall inside the common dining area. "...is the posted duty schedule. The schedule is posted weekly, but changes occur daily. Check the schedule when you get your morning meal. You will report to the Demon Support leader of that section at the indicated time. They will direct your duties."
Al Khafifa allowed them to check the schedule. She knew they only arrived that morning and would not be on it yet. They both surged forward to check the schedule, but looked confused that their names were absent.
"We are not on the schedule," Laurel said with some concern. She wanted to be ready to assist.
"Correct," Khafifa replied. "You arrived this morning. The schedule is completed weekly, but you will be added tonight for tomorrow." She led them out of the Dining Area and down the hallway to another common area.
"This is the main hallway. You can locate each of the main areas from this hallway, including the training areas, the armory, and the forge," Khafifa said. She turned them down that hallway. The hallway wound through the stone for some time before it opened up to additional rooms. Khafifa stopped at a door. "This is one of the practice training areas. This is the larger area. Three smaller areas and a range are also available," she said. "They are open to use for all Shadow Warriors. You will use them with your mentors." She let them look inside.
Inside they could see two Shadow Warriors sparring with knives in one corner of the large open area. A second pair were sparing with quarterstaffs. Al Khafifa turned and led them to another doorway further down. "This is our Range," she told them. Inside she turned on a light switch to illuminate the range. It was several enclosed archery ranges side by side with a short wall between them. Each range had a small device that appeared to shoot rubber balls in it. There were no standing targets.
Once they had time to view the range, Khafifa flipped the switch off and led them down to the end of the hallway. Near the end of the hallway were several doorways. Each one labeled with the symbol of a weapon. Al Khafifa opened the door with the symbol of a sword. "Each of these doors leads to a different armory. The armory contains weapons that are currently available for your use. After our orientation tour, you will both return to these rooms and select your preferred arms. You will use these arms for your entire stay as apprentices," Khafifa told them. "Store your arms in your quarters. You will maintain them. Supplies for maintaining them are within each armory."
"It will be done," they replied in chorus.
"Damaged weapons will be sent to the forge. Replace any broken weapons with those in the Armory," Khafifa told them. She led them to the door at the end of the hall. "This is the forge," Khafifa told them as she motioned them to look. The furnace was lit, but not blasting. No one was currently working in the forge. "Broken weapons are placed in this room for repair or to melt down and reforge into new weapons. Demon Support will make new weapons," she told them. She then pointed out the area that held several broken and damaged swords at one side.
Khafifa led them out of the weapons hallway. She finally led them to the last of the public areas. They returned to the main hallway. They walked away from the Dining Area to a series of narrower hallways. "These are the restrooms." She gestured to the two smaller doors. "al Khaba showed them to you. Over here..." she led them across the hallway to a large double door, "...is the Bathing Room." He motioned them into bathing room. It was like the one at Nanda Parbat, but smaller. The water was only about waist deep. Steam filled the room flowing from the pool. "A hot spring feeds this pool. It is slightly warm to bathe in, but it is much better than a cold bath."
Al Khafifa led them back out of the Bathing Room to the main hallway. "That hallway leads to your quarters," Khafifa indicated one of the hallways beyond the restroom and bathing room. "Go and collect your arms and supplies now. Move them to your quarters. When you have completed that task, return to Meeting Room Two." [1]
"It will be done," they chorused before Khafifa left them outside the bathing room.
"Come," Dafdae said with a smile. "I remember the way to the Armory."
"Good," Laurel replied. "I hope they have all of my preferred weapons."
"If they do not, you can request some are made or shipped from Nanda Parbat," Dafdae replied. "Most of the weapons are forged at Nanda Parbat. The Sagh are located there. Usually only one or two are located at a headquarters. They facilitate the transfer of broken weapons. They are good to know wherever you are assigned."
"That's good news," Laurel replied. "Let's go."
They both turned and headed back down to the Weapons Hallway.
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DEMON'S VENOM: PERU, LIMA - THE FORT: 5 JUL 2013
SAH-HIM (OLIVER)
Oliver slept late. He felt groggy from sleeping late. He panicked as he tried to remember where he was, what he was doing, and what he missed. Then the memories flooded back. The long flight. The short naps on the planes. The collapse into a bed mat in a strange room.
Alone. I'm alone again. Oliver felt disoriented. Adrift. No! I'm not alone. They are with me. Always. We are separate, but not alone. I can last for now.
Oliver got up and stretched. He scanned his room. He hadn't even looked at his room the night before. It was bare. The bed mat was in one corner. An empty shelf-unit in another corner. It looked like the shelves were for his clothing and armor. Empty weapon stands stood next to it. Shelves were set in the walls for gear and books. The back of the door had four hooks on it. Everything was empty. There was no window. The walls and the floor consisted of stone.
Small. Functional. Lonely. Oliver thought with a sigh. That depressing thought spurred him into motion. He put his gear and clothing away. He had no weapons. All his weapons had been returned at Nanda Parbat. He did have a book. His father's journal. He set it on the highest shelf. He set the thumb drive next to it with his father's message. They had a place of honor. I haven't forgotten you, Dad.
Oliver ventured to the restroom for his morning routine. He was finishing up when Haraq found him.
"Good, you are awake," Haraq said. "I have come to fetch you."
Oliver nodded. He followed Haraq out of the bathroom and back down the hall to Tayir's room. Haraq retrieved Tayir Alfiniq and led them both to a large carpeted room lined with smaller rooms. He deposited them in one of the smaller rooms.
"You will both wait here," Haraq told them. "al Hamsa will return shortly with your mentors." Then he departed.
Oliver let out a breath of air. "I feel like… I don't know… like training is starting all over again," he told Tayir. Venting his frustrations.
Tayir nodded. "I know the feeling," he replied. "This is the part where we learn about our gifts. That is the part I am most afraid of learning," he said in a sad tone.
"Afraid?" Oliver asked. "I don't know how to use my gift, but I've been trying. I'm not afraid of it."
"Yeah," Tayir replied. "My gift is different. My gift… it killed my family. I killed my family…" Tayir let his voice fade with his despair. Heartache apparent.
Oliver didn't know what he would do if his gift was responsible for the death of his family. He felt guilty enough surviving when his dad died. "I… can see how that would hurt," Oliver replied quietly. "I can see why you are afraid, but if you don't learn, how will you learn to control it?" he ask Tayir.
"I do not know," Tayir replied sadly. "I learned how to shut it off, but... To use it? That makes me afraid."
"Fear can be a good thing," Oliver told him. "Use it. You are named after the Phoenix. Become one. Rise from the ashes of your old life."
"Very insightful," Hamsa said as he entered the room with two other people. A man and woman. Both were wearing League uniforms. The man had purple piping on his shoulder pads. The woman had orange piping on her shoulder pads.
Oliver and Tayir Alfiniq immediately stood erect in the presence of the Fasir. Al Hamsa nodded to them both. "You may both relax. Today, I will escort you through the Demon's Venom. You are both apprentices with gifts. Most Eadi do not require training in your skills," Hamsa told them. "Your mentors have your training reports. Your apprentice training will begin tomorrow. We will tour the Fort today." He gestured to the woman.
"I am al Najwa," the woman introduced herself. "I will be training Tayir Alfiniq in the mystical arts of magic to become Barkih. Once you complete your apprenticeship, you will be able to control your magic. You will have all the skills needed to perform as a Journeyman Barkih. You can return to the Venom for extra training under a Master Barkih for one year. This will allow you to progress in rank from Journeyman to Master," She nodded to the man next to her.
"I am al Namla," the man introduced himself. "I am to train al Sah-him in the sensing arts of the Ruya. You will be trained as a Journeyman Wahy. You can serve in any branch of the League once your apprenticeship is over. Five years of field experience can bring you to the rank of Master Wahy. To teach the next generation."
"I am Tayir Alfiniq," Tayir introduced himself to al Najwa.
"I am al Sah-him," Oliver introduced himself to al Namla.
"Good," Hamsa said. "They will begin your apprenticeship training tomorrow. You will meet them in the large Meeting Room." When he received nods from the two new members. He turned to Namla and Najwa. "Dismissed," he told the two Masters. They bowed and left. "Now, come," Hamsa told the two remaining apprentices. "We will walk the rest of this tour."
Hamsa walked them on a tour of all the facilities at this headquarters of the Demon's Venom. He highlighted the duty rotation roster in the Dining Area. He spent extra time at the Sacred Place and highlighted the three Qas assigned to the Venom. He briefly highlighted the training rooms, armories, and the forge. He led them to the bathrooms and the Bathing Room before dismissing them to collect weapons.
"Alright," Oliver replied. "We can do this task easily enough."
"Yeah," Tayir replied. "I hope I remember where my room is."
"I know where mine is," Oliver replied. "Yours is next to mine."
"Good," Tayir replied. "I'll stick to you."
They both turned and headed back down to the Weapons Hallway.
~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~
DEMON'S SPINE: NEW ZEALAND, CHRISTCHURCH - THE CHURCH: 4 JUL 2013
YAD ALQADAR (THOMAS)
Thomas was wired from the long flight. They had taken four flights to get from Nanda Parbat to Christchurch, New Zealand. Even with the multiple flights, it had taken over a day to reach their destination. Al Samita had been unable to sleep much during the journey. She was dragging in exhaustion. However, Thomas dropped off almost instantly on each flight. Unfortunately, they arrived just after nightfall. Thomas resigned himself to being too awake to sleep.
During their first flight, al Qirsh directed them to change into civilian clothing. Something they were thankful for when they changed League planes. He warned them they would be exiting the aircraft in a busy airport. After they changed, Thomas missed the familiarity of his League uniform.
Al Qirsh was escorting them to their assigned branch of the League. Shakwa al Ghul. The Demon's Spine. They would spend the next six months as apprentices. Their mentors were responsible for their guiding Shadow Warrior training. At the end of six months, they would be Eadi. Shadow Warriors. Thomas hoped that he would get more than just warrior training. He knew Laurel was enhancing her technology training. Oliver had the whole sight thing he was training on. Thomas just wanted to feel useful. He knew he would be useful as a Shadow Warrior, but he wanted to do more for them. For his bonded.
"This way," Qirsh directed them off the plane. "We will finish our travel overland." He guided them toward a small private vehicle parked at the bottom of the stairs. A man waited for them next to the car.
"You have returned, al Qirsh," Alhariba greeted Qirsh.
"Thank you, al Alhariba," Qirsh replied stiffly. "We must return to the Church quickly. The tour and the orientation of the apprentices can wait until morning. I have an answer from Ra's about the Cult of Blood."
"It will be done, Fasir," Alhariba replied with a grim face. He started the car and drove into the night. The city of Christchurch was settling down for the night. People were slowly disappearing into their dwellings as the vehicle moved through the city.
Thomas noted the city parking garage they entered, but instead of heading to the upper levels. Their vehicle descended to the lowest sublevel of the garage. Alhariba entered a code in a hidden security panel. The solid stone wall ascended and they maneuvered the vehicle into a small hidden parking level.
From there, al Qirsh and al Alhariba guided the two down a series of the tunnels. Alhariba showed them the location of the restroom and their quarters. Then told them to rest. Someone would come get them the next day. Then he rushed off to join his Fasir to hear the latest orders from Ra's al Ghul.
Al Samita disappeared into her room. Thomas explored his room before he finally felt tired enough to sleep.
~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~
DEMON'S SPINE: NEW ZEALAND, CHRISTCHURCH - THE CHURCH: 5 JUL 2013
YAD ALQADAR (THOMAS)
Al Alhariba retrieved Thomas and al Samita the next morning. He showed them where to eat and where to wait for al Qirsh to find them. Then he departed a second time. Thomas and Samita ate a quick morning meal and then waited in the large room for Qirsh.
Thomas was bouncing on his feet. He was more vocal than his silent companion, but he kept his more vocal bouncing to himself. Finally, he couldn't take it anymore.
"I'm ready," Thomas told her.
Al Samita just raised an eyebrow at him and his antics.
"I know," Thomas continued to narrate to her. "This is just more weapons training. I get that. But… We are halfway there. We can do this. I want to do this. Al Aldire and al Sah-him will need my support. I won't let them down."
Al Samita just gave him a sad smile and shook her head.
"You think I'm over thinking it," Thomas continued. "You're probably right."
"Good. You are here," Qirsh said as he stormed into the large Meeting Room. They both snapped to standing when Qirsh entered with a second man. He had two red stripes on his shoulder pads.
"Fasir," they respectfully greeted their assigned leader.
"This is al Asim," Qirsh introduced the second man. "He will be your mentor. He will give you a tour of the facility. You will meet the Qas after your orientation tour."
"I am Yad Alqadar," Thomas introduced himself to his new mentor.
"I am al Samita," Samita introduced herself to her new mentor.
"Thank you, Fasir," Asim nodded at Qirsh. "They are in good hands."
"Good. I'll leave you to it," Qirsh replied before he strode out of the Meeting Room.
"You will need to forgive him," Asim told them. "He is rushing to carry out Ra's' orders. He is usually not so abrupt. Today will only be about familiarizing yourselves with the Church. We will not begin your apprenticeship training until tomorrow."
"As our Fasir said, I am al Asim," the man introduced himself a second time. "I will be evaluating you both for the next month or so. This evaluation is to help the Fasir place you with the proper mentor. I am more of a master mentor. I will be determining the best path for you. The Warrior's Path. Majahid. The Raven's Path. Ghurab. The Command Path. Qayid."
"You have both been sent to the Spine to be evaluated for possible inclusion in the rank of the Qayid or Ghurab. That is my task," Asim told them with a grin. "If you do not gain inclusion, do not fear. You may be evaluated again in one year if that is your desire."
"What are Qayid and Ghurab?" Thomas asked curiously.
"To explain the Qayid and the Ghurab, it is best to start with an explanation of the Majahid," Asim started. "All Shadow Warriors are Eadi. Yet there are some who are more skilled than others. Everyone starts as Eadi. Once you have completed your apprenticeships at the end of the solar cycle, you will be Eadi regardless of your path."
"In three years, a service Eadi earns his Journeyman stripe. In seven years, the Eadi earns his Master stripe. If an Eadi has no other skill trained, they are Majahid. The Warrior's Path," Asim continued. "Other paths maintain their warrior skills. In this sense, all Shadow Warriors are the soldiers in the army of League."
Thomas nodded. Al Samita just looked stunned with her eyes wide open.
"As an army, the League requires commanders. That is what the Qayid are. If you have leadership skill, it is trained and honed," Asim told them. "An army also requires intelligence. That is what Ghurab are. If you have exceptional infiltration skill, it is further trained and honed."
Al Asim paused to allow them to absorb that information. "If you are accepted as Qayid, you will receive a different mentor. If you are accepted as Ghurab, you will receive a different mentor. Your mentor is to assist you in learning about your chosen path. Be that the Command Path, the Warrior's Path, or the Raven's Path."
"Now, let me put faces with the training reports I have reviewed," Asim said with a hint of a smile.
"I am Yad Alqadar," Thomas introduced himself to Asim.
"I am al Samita," Samita introduced herself.
"Well met to you both," Asim replied. "Again, we will begin your apprenticeship evaluations tomorrow. You will meet me here… in the large Meeting Room." When he received nods from the two new apprentices. "Now, follow. It is time to experience the Church," Asim told the two apprentices.
Al Asim walked them on a tour of all the facilities at this headquarters of the Demon's Spine. He highlighted the duty rotation roster in the Dining Area. He spent extra time at the Sacred Place and highlighted the four Qas assigned to the Spine. How they had materials for the many languages in the Spine. He briefly highlighted the training rooms, armories, and the forge. He explained that they would be visiting these rooms often. He led them to the bathrooms and the Bathing Room before dismissing them to collect weapons.
"Well… that was exhausting," Thomas told his fellow apprentice. "At least we can have arms now."
"Yes," Samita replied. "I feel better being armed."
"I know," Thomas replied. "I just wish I could carry my sword all the time. Nothing makes me feel safe like having a sword."
"I prefer knives," Samita said with a smirk. "Easier to draw without gaining the attention of the room."
"Oh, I see how it is," Thomas snarked. "Kill me before I even get my sword out…"
"Of course," Samita replied with her quiet smirk.
They both turned and headed back down to the Weapons Hallway.
~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~
USA, WA, STARLING CITY - LANCE HOME: 5 JUL 2013
Sara Lance stood by the car as her mother packed the last of her bags in the trunk. The loading van left. It pulled out and headed down the road. I know I can't convince her to stay anymore, Sara thought sadly. I wish I knew why she is determined to leave us.
"I guess this is it," Sara said sullenly to her mother.
"I guess so," Dinah replied as she came around to Sara. "I know I can't convince your father to leave that awful department of his," she started. "But I was hoping to convince you to come to Central City University with me." She still hoped she could convince her remaining child to leave this dreadful city.
"You know I can't, Mom," Sara replied. "I already explained why."
"That girl," Dinah said with vehemence. Why the hell would my child want to be associated with that wicked family, I have no idea. "She has no business in this family. She is best left behind with the rest of the bad memories." This evil city is full of bad memories. Worse than Gotham.
"Mom," Sara whined. "I refuse abandon Thea. I love her. I will continue to support her. In every way I can." What is mom's problem with Thea? The child has done nothing to her. Ever.
"She isn't family!" Dinah spat. "She is a reminder of that damn family!" I will forever curse the Queens. They killed my child. I am justified in my hate.
"No, she is family! My family." Sara replied with equal vehemence. "She is a 12-year-old girl who lost her father, her two brothers, and my sister. She is in pain. I am in pain. We need each other. I intend to be there for her. If you can't or won't, then leave."
"Humph," Dinah replied. She is not MY family. She is no innocent. She is related by blood to those damn Queens. "I won't stay where I am not wanted." I can't believe my blood would choose that girl over her family. Absurd!
"Mom," Sara sighed. I shouldn't have said that. I don't want to drive mom away. Why is she making this so hard? Why is she making me choose? If I must, than I choose Dad and Thea. They need me. Mom doesn't. "It's not that we don't want you… but you don't want us. I am tired of you ignoring dad and me. So, GO… Live your life! Let us live ours, but this is our family. You choose not to be a part of it. Goodbye, Mom."
Dinah had a shocked look on her face. She really wants to choose others over blood. She schooled her face to the mask of a teacher. "Very well. Goodbye, Sara," Dinah said with dignity. Then she marched around to the driver's side of her car and climbed inside. She started the car and pulled away from the curb. I can't wait to leave this damn city behind me. Everything will be better in Central City. I'll make sure of it. Then I can forget this city exists.
Sara watched her mother drive away. She sighed. Why do I feel like I will only see my mother again on her terms? She is only going to go to Central City, isn't she? Damn it!
~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~
Chapter Endnotes:
[1] Facility Orientation Note: If you have ever served in the military… any military… then you are familiar with how a new posting will conduct orientation for new members. Arrow canon stated the League of Assassins was the largest army in the world, but only showed us a few members. TV limitations suck. This is my fix to their oversight. It seems pointless to rehash the arrival orientation three times, but my intent is to show how each location is the same and slightly different. The Qas Orientation is similar in the next chapter. It focuses on the mental orientation, rather than the physical orientation.
~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~AU~