War Lions

Of all the beasts that prowl within the mysterious forests of the Elven realm of Chrace, the white War Lions are perhaps the best renowned. These fearsome beasts are deadly hunting cats, powerful creatures with a muscular frame and a sharp, cunning mind. Almost as tall at the shoulders as an elven steed, a War Lion is far stronger, able to break bones with each sweep of its claws and shatter even helmeted heads with a single chomp of its fanged maw. When War Lion prides hunt, none within their chosen grounds are safe. They will range far and wide, coordinating by instinct, in search of prey. A War Lion's loyalty is to its kin, first and last. This fidelity, along with their incredible ferocity when they attack, has given rise to a great many songs and poems throughout Ulthuan, and it is with a clear measure of pride that the Phoenix King's bodyguard have adopted the famed White Lions of Chrace as their namesakes.

The High Elves of Ulthaun do not regard the War Lions as evil creatures, but rather savage beasts to be feared, respected, and occasionally, in the case of hunters of Chrace, nurtured. When preparing for war, it has been known for High Elf Mages to bind a pride of War Lions to their will. Such a gesture is not without risk, for the lions of Chrace are intelligent and patient beasts, and they are not easily controlled. Even when armoured for war and bound by powerful magic, White Lions maintain a lethal predatory instincit, and they remain vigilant against any threat, constantly ready to pounce should danger present itself.

Whilst Scrolls of Binding will unify and direct the War Lions for a time, a cunning Mage will strive to bond with her predatory companions. Once accepted by the pride, the War Lions will remain loyal to the wizard long after the rites of binding have dissipated and all magical bonds are gone. One who has been adopted by a pride of War Lions in this way can find herself with a bodyguard that even the Phoenix King himself might envy.

Source

 * Warhammer: Storm of Magic -- pg. 100