Enter the Monk

Born too small, and too sickly (premature) to survive traveling in winter tribal law dictated the child be left behind to die. Despite the feeble physical appearance, the nurse-maid who brought him into the world saw a spark in the child's eye that reflected a strenght of spirit and will to live that moved her to take pity on the child and delivered to the babe to a nearby monastary with the hopes that the monks there would be able to nurse the child to health.

The monks gave the child the name Shuzume, or Sparrow in the common tongue, and under their care he survived the harsh winter.

Life at the Monastary was good for Sparrow and he quicky grew into a kind, thoughtful, strong young man. He never balked at any of his duties and under the care and tutalage of the monks learned many things. The order practiced the way of the open hand and from an early age Sparrow showed great promise in this art form. Through rigorous training Sparrow learned to use not just his physical strength but also his strong mind and developed speed and agility that belied his size.

The monks also insisted that Sparrow understand his tribal heritage and he spent much time learning the ways of the land in the forest surrounding the temple. He learned to distinguish good fruits and nuts from bad, to build shelter and start fires, and to hunt, skin,and cook small game.

As is customary in the temple, now that sparrow has enetered adulthood it is time for him to learn the ways of the world at large. To explore both the world and himself outside of the safety of the temple walls and to use his gifts to aid others. It is also encouraged to seek out other temples of the order to continue his teachings.