This enormous wooden structure is headquarters of the Wood Wailers—the lancers of Gridania who keep the peace within the city, and the greater peace without. The Wailing Barracks hold a guardhouse, facilities where townsfolk might seek the Wailers' counsel, and a small gaol for those criminals who commit crimes that disturb the peace of the Twelveswood or have wronged the forestborn. It is also home to the Lancers' Guild, which is ever on the lookout for able bodies to aid in its grand endeavors.
First used by ancient hunters, Elezen have held the lance in high regard since times of eld. Those who migrated to the Twelveswood were no different, and it is even said the polearm was the weapon of choice for those of royal blood in Gelmorra. The lance maintained its import in the founding of Gridania as well, gracing the hands of the newly-formed Wood Wailers.
While the Wailers pursued mastery of the spear in their own quarters, tidings of their skill spread throughout Eorzea. Men from all lands converged upon the woodland city-state to try their skill against the Gridanians. Only one hunfdred years ago, however, did someone realize the value of these practice bouts. Mistalle, a captain of the Wailers, saw that he might learn foreign styles through sparring, and resigned his post to found the Lancers' Guild. Current Gridanian technique owes its existence to Mistalle's insight and efforts, and embodies traditions of the spear from all corners of the realm.
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