# Oblivion: Bears for the Legion

Book Information
ID | xx017518
| 2 |  | 2.0
Locations

Found in the following locations:

- Bear Riders' Lodge, in Gudrun's office

BEARS for the LEGION

This manual is commissioned to serve as a guide and reference for trainers of bears for the Imperial Legion

The bears used by the Legion are specially bred for the purpose. They have been selected over the years for their disposition, and preference has been given to paler coats, so that the current bears are almost white. In all other respects they retain the characteristics of their wild cousins, strength, fearlessness, and resolute will.
While the bears can sustain considerable damage in combat without complaint, they are quite sensitive to small irritations, such as plucking their long fur. It has been determined that plate and chainmail armor trap the fur of the animal's back and cause it considerable annoyance, making it hard to ride.
Their keen sense of smell makes fur and leather armor equally unacceptable to the bears. It is also believed that scent is the reason they prefer female riders to male. This was once thought to be more a matter of weight, but they'll carry a Nord woman, and throw off a male Bosmer.
These observations have led to the design of the current uniform for the Mountain Riders. Above the waist, they wear heavy plate, as this does not come into contact with the bear. Below, defense is primarily magical, with the Frost Shield serving a double purpose. The bears would prefer that the girls wear nothing, but a minimal garment is required to hold the enchantment, and the girls would refuse to wear less.
Use of a helmet is optional. Most, if not all, riders forgo one, as they already feel top-heavy in their armor, and many find the restricted view from a helmet a problem in the mountains It is however, part of the parade uniform for formal events. The rider may choose a weapon to suit their own style of combat, with the stipulation that it be Silver. Most choose a claymore for the reach.
Bears appear to share our own tastes in food, and will eat both meat and plant material. A particular fondness for berries and honey is usual, but individual bears may have different preferences. These will become apparent during the bear's training, and this information should be passed on to the rider.
While the bears will naturally reject riders wearing the wrong armor, they should also receive training in recognition of the Legion as their friends, to the point where they should permit any Mountain Rider to mount, not just their specifically assigned handler, but should refuse anyone who is not a member of the Legion. They should defend any Legion member, including any foresters that venture into the mountains.