One Last Easter Egg
04-08-2018, 04:42 AM
<b>Alpha:</b> <a href="http://ardently.org/member.php?action=profile&uid=1792">Iskra</a>
<b>Proposed name:</b> Empyreal
<b>Proposed color:</b> #DE2B3C (Pink)
<b>Proposed lands:</b> Algoma prairie and Gambit Briar
<b>Why You Should Vote for Me:</b>
While Empyreal’s ranking and governance system do not differ too strongly from those you’re used to, I believe the pack will be different greatly in culture and attitude towards other packs. It’s quite common to see packs whose interests reside mainly within their own borders. Empyreal will be different, in that they are more or less in the business of knowing what’s going on everywhere in Boreas. Knowledge is power and this pack intends to capitalize on that fact.
Next, their attitude towards training will be different from what we’re used to. Empyreal will greatly value creativity and betterment on one’s self, and back that stance up by expecting members to train frequently outside of mandatory trainings. If you want to level your character’s skills and are committed to making them go down in Ardent history, well Empyreal is a great place to do just that.
As for myself? I think we all know Iskra’s my main girl, and I don’t think I’ll have a problem letting her dominate my threadlist again and keeping activity up. I’ve played with the idea of creating a pack long ago but never had a character I wanted to do it with until now. Additionally, I do love drama, so Iskra and all my other chars are never entirely safe from harm and I think the fact that I’m willing to take risks or lose them makes for more exciting gameplay.
<b><u>PACK INFORMATION</b></u>
“The brave do not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all.”
Empyreal is a pack that ranges far across the board alignment-wise. They may be considered a Chaotic good pack, but it is not uncommon for them to show tendencies of other alignments ranging from Lawful Good to Chaotic Neutral. They stress the importance of information, knowledge, above all else and their ranks and behaviors reflect this greatly. They are the shadows lurking in the background, the spies, the ones you can always trust to know more about a pack than the members themselves. Emphasis on the chaotic aspect of good, this is a bunch of risk-taking informants who keep their allies appraised of the goings-on in the world of Ardent and watch their enemies’ every move with a calculating gaze. Loyalty is key if you wish to live among them, as well as a good worth ethic.
<b>Tier 1 Rank</b>: Commander (1)
<b>Description</b>: He or She is the ultimate authority in Empyreal. What this wolf says goes, though they should always strive to do what is in the best interests of the pack and it’s allies. The Commander has the final say in making all major decisions. While their Second and Champion may help with the responsibilities of leadership, anything that affects Empyreal’s future falls to the commander and the commander alone.
<b>Tier 1 Rank</b>: Champion (1)
<b>Description</b>: The right hand of the Commander, this wolf is their most trusted ally, though they may or may not be the commander’s mate. This wolf is expected to share all the responsibilities of the Commander, and may call meetings, promote or demote wolves up to tier three without consulting the Commander, doll out punishment and accept new members. Empyreal’s Champion acts as the voice of the Commander in meetings with other packs should the Commander be unable to attend. This wolf is the Commander’s most trusted ally, and because of this it is a rank impossible to obtain without establishing closeness with the Commander beforehand. They serve as the secondary leader of the pack, and are the only wolf allowed to fight in the Commander’s stead.
<b>Tier 1 Rank</b>: The Commander’s Second (1)
<b>Description</b>: The Commander’s apprentice, in essence. May or may not be a blood relative of the Commander. Their main job is to learn how to be the Commander in the event that the current Commander should pass. Extensive training in many fields of study is required, and if the current Second does not impress the Commander with their drive to succeed, a new one will be chosen to replace them. Once the Commander thinks them fit, and only then, the Commander’s second will be granted more or less the same power as the Champion, though the Champion will still outrank them.
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<b><u>Tier two</b></u>: The wolves under this Tier have the power to punish anyone who falls under their charge except in the case of major offenses. Promoting and demoting, hosting and keeping track of the training done by those they are responsible for are some of their most important duties. In the event that something happens to all wolves in Tier one, these wolves could be eligible to oversee the pack and potentially become the new commander.
<b>Tier 2 Rank</b>: Warmaster (1)
<b>Description</b>: Head soldier, it is this wolf’s responsibility to not only hold at the minimum bi-annual trainings for soldiers of all ranks, but they also must ensure that all wolves under their command train regularly and to aid the Elite Soldiers in making opportunities for Soldier ranks to bond and train together as well as see that the soldiers are being trained adequately, and assigning soldiers to Elites. Trainings could include minor festivals, games, competitions, and more. The warmaster should have a high skill rank(compared to the rest of the pack at any given time) OOC and need to regularly work on skill and training threads to prove they are keeping their skills sharp.
<b>Tier 2 Rank</b>: Emissary (2)
<b>Description</b>: Call them the Ambassador, if you will, as far as the other packs know this is the face of Empyreal when the Tier one ranks are unable to meet with other leaders themselves. The Emissary must have great knowledge of all friends and foes, and constantly be seeking to learn more about the world around them and keep up to date on current events in Ardent. The lesser-known duties of this rank include a heavy emphasis on espionage, they are the best of the best when it comes to spying on others be they friend or foe. It never hurts to have dirt on your pals, and the Emissary is the go to for such incriminating information. Darker duties like the assassination of traitors or important enemies fall on this wolf’s shoulders. They are in charge of all Informant ranks. If two wolves attain this role, they may divide the ranks tasks between themselves, more often than not assigning one to focus on duties outside the territory while the other focuses on internal affairs.
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<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Soldier (3)
<b>Description</b>: Their name says it all, really. These are the best fighters Empyreal has to offer, and as such they hold great responsibility. While the Warmaster is in charge of all soldier ranks, they do not oversee the day to day training the way an Elite Soldier does. Leading small groups of Soldiers, they’re expected to oversee their underlings training and ensure no one under their purview is slacking. Frequent sparring and fitness training is a must. As the fighters of the pack, they are in charge of organizing patrols, preparing defenses against attack or invasion, and ensuring the pack is war-ready at all times. While most scouting falls to informants, often times a soldier will accompany them in case things go wrong. The Elite Soldiers will assign Soldiers for such tasks. Their fighting skills should be reasonably high to reflect their ability.
<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Informant (3)
<b>Description</b>: The backbone of Empyreal, for it is not a pack focused on war or peace but rather the gathering of information. Elite Informants are required to have vast knowledge of the terrain, and have explored a vast number of lands in both continents before rising to this rank. Lots of exploring and skill collecting is a must for them. More often than not they will be traveling, leading groups of the lower ranking informants either on missions or for training. It’s not uncommon for ranks who stay within the borders to hardly know these wolves, for they are a busy lot with a great deal resting on their shoulders. Collecting information on both allies and enemies is imperative. Assigning scouting missions to Informants as well as coordinating with the Elite Soldiers to assign backup is only part of their job. Being familiar with the weather patterns in lands near and far is important, as well as seeking to become familiar with all of the territories of Boreas and Auster. In the absence of an Emissary, they must work with the higher ranks to plan what areas to scout most frequently depending on the state of Empyreal’s relations with other packs.
<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Hunter/Huntress (3)
<b>Description</b>: The men and woman who pride themselves on their tracking and hunting abilities, pack members owe these diligent and highly trained hunters for ensuring there are meals aplenty for the scout-heavy pack. As Hunters are not a main focus of Empyreal - but no less valued despite that fact - these are the highest ranked hunters in the pack and as such bear full responsibility for leading and training the other hunters. A vast knowledge of all prey in and around the pack is a must, as well as keen senses and unrivaled tracking ability. These wolves may also be called on to assist Informant ranks if a mission requires a great deal of tracking. Calling pack hunts as well as leading trainings for those they are charged with is important. They may also help see that all of Empyreal’s pups and adult members have a good grasp of hunting and tracking and can fend for themselves if needed. Joint training with other ranks is not uncommon.
<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Medic (3)
<b>Description</b>: Another underpopulated but highly appreciated line of ranks, the Elite Medics are akin to their hunter comrades in that they are the highest ranking in their job. As the doctors of this overly involved bunch, the Elite Medics are treated with utmost respect, unofficially acting as the highest rank in tier three. A vast knowledge of herbs and their uses for all kinds of ailments and afflictions is strictly required. They must prove themselves to the Commander his/herself as the best in their field to rise to this rank. Training all medics is one of their greatest responsibilities, along with doctoring any and all injured Emyreans. It is expected for the Elite medic to take on one or more apprentices and ensure that they have a second worthy of replacing them if something should happen.
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<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Soldier
<b>Description</b>: Well versed in the art of battle, these are the main fighters of Empyreal and often stand between the pack and disaster. Protecting the inhabitants of the pack, aiding other ranks on missions outside the borders, maintaining and patrolling the borders, as well as assisting in training apprentices are all duties of these fight-hungry wolves. They are required to train often, and help see that the wolves in other ranks have the basic ability to fight and fend for themselves. The image of Empyreal’s ideal of self-reliance, a Soldier should know a little of everything if they can pick it up, and always be working towards self-betterment and the possibility of ranking up to Elite.
<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Informant
<b>Description</b>: The bulk of the pack. An informant must know the pack lands so well they can walk it effortlessly with their eyes closed. Scouting and learning the terrain and weather-patterns of all surrounding territories is a must as well. The bulk of Empyreal’s activity belongs to them. The nosy, sneaky, sly Informants know anything and everything they can about the world around them. Scouting out other packs, checking on and helping to maintain relations and communicate with allies, investigating enemies or potential enemies, and keeping tabs on the current major events in Ardent are all their responsibilities. Since they leave the pack so often and work closely with each other training with comrades and forming close bonds is highly encouraged. Like the Soldiers, they should always be training and working to rank up. Ambition is rewarded in Empyreal if it is showed consistently.
<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Hunter
<b>Description</b>: Trackers and hunters, these wolves keep their senses sharp and the pack from going hungry. They report to the Elite hunters or another high rank if there is no Elite. These wolves are to be shown respect as they keep Empyreal in business. When the pack isn’t busy sticking it’s nose in everyone’s business, they have been known to trade with allies, which means hunters should not only feed the pack, but gather and save things that may be crafted into items of value. Hunters may accompany Informants on some missions as trackers, though they spend the bulk of their time nearer to the pack. Participation in hunts is mandatory for these wolves unlike the rest of the pack, and just like everyone else they must train and pull their weight to show they are working hard and keeping their skills sharp.
<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Medic
<b>Description</b>: What is a busy-body without someone to patch them up when they get hit? Medics are the doctors who tisk and bandage the other pack members when needed. They should always seek to expand their herbal knowledge, as well as ensure they are well versed on wolf anatomy and many methods of healing. Attending all meetings and trainings held by the Elite Healers is a must. If there is no Elite they should be busy vying for the place. Frequent trips in and out of pack lands to gather herbs and resources as well as ensuring the pack is well stocked with all it may need eat up a large amount of their time.
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<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Recruit
<b>Description</b>: New members of the pack and unranked adults. This is not a rank one is meant to hold for long if possible, but rather a point to pause in before picking and training for a certain path. Until they pick a path, Recruits must attend <i>all</i> trainings to help them decide, as well as perform any tasks a higher rank asks of them.If they cannot choose a rank, the Commander may assign them one, most often ranking them as hunters until something else appeals to the recruit in question.
<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Apprentice
<b>Description</b>: Adults and pups who are training with another wolf in an effort to learn to serve in a particular career. It is possible for young children to Apprentice early, though often times they wait until six months but may take no longer than a year. Apprentices are the sole responsibility of their mentor, and must listen to that wolf and train with them frequently to learn the skills they will need. When their mentor or another higher ranking member believe they are ready, they may test with their Mentor and the Commander or Champion to rank up to a tier 4 rank. If the Commander or Champion are not present, the test will not count.
<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Pup
<b>Description</b>: The children of Empyreal. They will be treated with love and kindness, but this does not mean that the youngsters can escape punishment if they do wrong. Exploring the territory, meeting pack members, and following other ranked members are encouraged to help the children choose their future path when it comes time for them to become Apprentices. Additionally, they must learn about Empyreal’s rules, and the basics of what every wolf must know to be self-reliant. No child of a capable age should be helpless if they are lost or alone.
<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Veteran
<b>Description</b>: The elderly members of Empyreal, these wolves have given what they have to offer and may now spend time in a less demanding rank. Of course they do not live without responsibility - sharing their knowledge, helping to teach the young pack members, and spreading wisdom are important duties for the Veterans of Empyreal. Treating them with respect is required, as they have earned it in full.
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<b>Tier 6 Rank</b>: Prisoner
<b>Description</b>: Those being held in Empyreal for crimes against the pack or it’s allies. Most often outsiders, they have a very limited range that they may travel within the pack lands to keep them from being able to share knowledge of Empyreal’s inner workings. Depending on their reason for being placed in this rank, it is possible for a wolf to work hard and become a true pack member, but only through <i>dedicated</i> effort on their part. If their crime is too great, they will only be in this rank long enough to await fitting punishment.
<b>Laws</b>:
►The Commander is the ultimate authority - All wolves in Empyreal have one undisputed leader and that is the Commander. What your leader says goes.
►Attendance is not optional - All meetings mandatory for certains ranks should be attended by all wolves in those ranks unless they have legitimate IC reason not to be there, or an absence is posted by the player. Empyreal will have a heavy focus on training, comradery within it’s ranks, and self-improvement which cannot be achieved without hard work, and good attendance.
►Just cause you want it doesn’t mean you’ll get it - While not specified in rank descriptions, it is possible to challenge for some ranks. All rank challenges should be okayed by the commander. If he/she does not see the challenger as worthy of the rank they want, it will not be allowed. Tier one ranks will never be up for challenge, and tier two ranks will require a wolf who most likely has a fair number of skill points under their belt.
►Learn, don’t share - Empyreal is in the business of knowing more than any other pack; it’s their thing. However, sharing pack-related information without the okay of a rank one or two wolf is a punishable offense. Telling other wolves who does or doesn’t live here is unacceptable considering Empyreal’s potential for making enemies as it could put pack members(or ex pack members) in danger. Additionally, members are not to share the packs numbers, ratio of ranks, or any other information that could reasonably be used to hurt the pack or those within it. This is risky business and we need not let anyone have an ounce of power to do Empyreans harm.
►Trespassers beware - Intruders may be attacked on sight. Unless there is reasonable evidence to suggest the wolf intruding within the borders is in need of help, is an ally with permission to enter, or is probably harmless, it is even required to attack potential enemies. Those without reason to enter uninvited should wait at the border or risk bodily harm.
►The more you know - Empyreal focuses heavily on those with Navigation skills unlike other packs. They are heavy in spies and trade in knowledge. Because of this, Informants must do their duty, and should spend a great deal more time outside the borders than most pack wolves do. If an Informant is not performing to the satisfaction of their higher ups they may be assigned a new rank or demoted until they can bring something interesting to prove their capabilities.
►Be wary - Enemies abound, and Empyreal is stationed purposefully close to the bridge between Auster and Boreas. This is to ease travel and situate the pack where they can easily keep tabs on who’s going where, however, it puts them in a vulnerable position. Whenever a member is within pack borders they should be doing patrols every other day if it is not their job, just to ensure there are more eyes to keep watch for potential threats.
►Treat your friends well - Allies are valuable, almost as valuable as knowledge. While they make enemies easily, Empyreal also works hard to maintain friendships. The Emissary and the Informant ranks should make regular trips to ensure friendly packs are doing well, and calls for Empyreals help will never go unanswered.
►Put your money where your mouth is - Lesser known ideals of Empyreal include self-reliance and consistent improvement. If you say you wanna be a great fighter, well, you better prove it you you probably don’t have a place here. Additionally, all wolves in this pack are required to learn the very basics of every skill. This is non-negotiable and it is not uncommon for higher ranks to ensure this is done by testing pack members randomly.
►Learn, learn, learn, train, train, train - That’s right, it should be obvious but the Commander still specifies clearly to every new member; you must attend every training required of your rank unless you are on death’s door or gone on a mission. No exceptions. If you’re in the recruit rank, then you better train with anyone and everyone to figure out what you wanna do and prove you can be good at it. Training outside of the group training called for by higher ranks is required to prove you are keeping your skills sharp and remaining a useful asset to the pack. Basically, don’t be lazy or you’re gunna face some consequences.
►Don’t start what the rest of us gotta finish - Creating unnecessary conflict with other packs is a punishable offense. Don’t do it. Unless you can justify your actions and <i>prove</i> it was reasonable to start shit with somebody, there’s no excuse.
►Sort it out - Conflicts between pack members are expected to be handled maturely. If members cannot work things out they must go to a higher ranking wolf for assistance with their dispute. If they do not and choose to fight, both will be punished.
►Babies - While Iskra doesn’t really wanna know about your sex life, she would like to be apprised of any new lives being brought into the pack, preferably before they are conceived. This is so Empyreal’s population can be monitored so it does not go over it’s maximum members. Of course accidents happen, but, avoid that.
►Think before you leave - While you don’t need to check in every time you leave, always ensure <i>someone</i> reasonably knows where you’re going. Empyreal is home to chaotic types, but not fools. If you’re leaving on a mission then obviously the one who assigned it to you knows, but if you’re a healer or hunter make sure you pass on your intentions so pack members know where to look for you if you’re gone too long!
►Traitor! - Turning one’s back on Empyreal is not something that is taken lightly. To betray them is to betray everyone in the pack. Traitors are to be maimed on sight if they attempt to return to Empyreal’s lands or are caught too close to its borders. As far as deserter or those who simply disappear? They may return but must explain their absence to the Commander’s satisfaction and prove themselves once more as capable, trustworthy members of Empyreal.
►Bonds beyond blood - More than anything, it is desired for members to become close-knit, form friendships and learn to work well in groups. Pack members are all treated as family, whether they are relatives or not. Family of pack members will be treated with similar kindness and often are more easily allied with than total strangers.
<b>Customs</b>
Recruitment festival - Every year Empyreal will host a grand festival meant to draw in new members, allow bonding with their allies, and the possible forming of new friendships and alliances. It takes place in the Prairie, in a select portion that is opened up for outsiders to enter freely for the duration of the festival. Many things occur during this particular festival, including but not limited to,trading with loners and other packs, drinking, recruiting of new members, games, spars, and even the occasional mystery challenge provided by the Commander. The winner of the Commander’s challenge gets a special prize. Rather than having many festivals, since they’re a rather busy bunch, Empyreal packs much of it’s partying into this single grand festival under the guise of wanting to attract new members.
The games - Games are not only for the festival, no, but rather are an important aspect of Empyreal’s training. Members take part in activities and competitions with one another frequently, sometimes led by higher ranks or other times thrown together by lower tiers as a means of both bonding and sharpening their skills. As a navigator-heavy pack group trips into surrounding lands are commonplace, and things like races to set destinations are among the most popular of the games played by members.
<b>Proposed name:</b> Empyreal
<b>Proposed color:</b> #DE2B3C (Pink)
<b>Proposed lands:</b> Algoma prairie and Gambit Briar
<b>Why You Should Vote for Me:</b>
While Empyreal’s ranking and governance system do not differ too strongly from those you’re used to, I believe the pack will be different greatly in culture and attitude towards other packs. It’s quite common to see packs whose interests reside mainly within their own borders. Empyreal will be different, in that they are more or less in the business of knowing what’s going on everywhere in Boreas. Knowledge is power and this pack intends to capitalize on that fact.
Next, their attitude towards training will be different from what we’re used to. Empyreal will greatly value creativity and betterment on one’s self, and back that stance up by expecting members to train frequently outside of mandatory trainings. If you want to level your character’s skills and are committed to making them go down in Ardent history, well Empyreal is a great place to do just that.
As for myself? I think we all know Iskra’s my main girl, and I don’t think I’ll have a problem letting her dominate my threadlist again and keeping activity up. I’ve played with the idea of creating a pack long ago but never had a character I wanted to do it with until now. Additionally, I do love drama, so Iskra and all my other chars are never entirely safe from harm and I think the fact that I’m willing to take risks or lose them makes for more exciting gameplay.
<b><u>PACK INFORMATION</b></u>
“The brave do not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all.”
Empyreal is a pack that ranges far across the board alignment-wise. They may be considered a Chaotic good pack, but it is not uncommon for them to show tendencies of other alignments ranging from Lawful Good to Chaotic Neutral. They stress the importance of information, knowledge, above all else and their ranks and behaviors reflect this greatly. They are the shadows lurking in the background, the spies, the ones you can always trust to know more about a pack than the members themselves. Emphasis on the chaotic aspect of good, this is a bunch of risk-taking informants who keep their allies appraised of the goings-on in the world of Ardent and watch their enemies’ every move with a calculating gaze. Loyalty is key if you wish to live among them, as well as a good worth ethic.
<b>Tier 1 Rank</b>: Commander (1)
<b>Description</b>: He or She is the ultimate authority in Empyreal. What this wolf says goes, though they should always strive to do what is in the best interests of the pack and it’s allies. The Commander has the final say in making all major decisions. While their Second and Champion may help with the responsibilities of leadership, anything that affects Empyreal’s future falls to the commander and the commander alone.
<b>Tier 1 Rank</b>: Champion (1)
<b>Description</b>: The right hand of the Commander, this wolf is their most trusted ally, though they may or may not be the commander’s mate. This wolf is expected to share all the responsibilities of the Commander, and may call meetings, promote or demote wolves up to tier three without consulting the Commander, doll out punishment and accept new members. Empyreal’s Champion acts as the voice of the Commander in meetings with other packs should the Commander be unable to attend. This wolf is the Commander’s most trusted ally, and because of this it is a rank impossible to obtain without establishing closeness with the Commander beforehand. They serve as the secondary leader of the pack, and are the only wolf allowed to fight in the Commander’s stead.
<b>Tier 1 Rank</b>: The Commander’s Second (1)
<b>Description</b>: The Commander’s apprentice, in essence. May or may not be a blood relative of the Commander. Their main job is to learn how to be the Commander in the event that the current Commander should pass. Extensive training in many fields of study is required, and if the current Second does not impress the Commander with their drive to succeed, a new one will be chosen to replace them. Once the Commander thinks them fit, and only then, the Commander’s second will be granted more or less the same power as the Champion, though the Champion will still outrank them.
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<b><u>Tier two</b></u>: The wolves under this Tier have the power to punish anyone who falls under their charge except in the case of major offenses. Promoting and demoting, hosting and keeping track of the training done by those they are responsible for are some of their most important duties. In the event that something happens to all wolves in Tier one, these wolves could be eligible to oversee the pack and potentially become the new commander.
<b>Tier 2 Rank</b>: Warmaster (1)
<b>Description</b>: Head soldier, it is this wolf’s responsibility to not only hold at the minimum bi-annual trainings for soldiers of all ranks, but they also must ensure that all wolves under their command train regularly and to aid the Elite Soldiers in making opportunities for Soldier ranks to bond and train together as well as see that the soldiers are being trained adequately, and assigning soldiers to Elites. Trainings could include minor festivals, games, competitions, and more. The warmaster should have a high skill rank(compared to the rest of the pack at any given time) OOC and need to regularly work on skill and training threads to prove they are keeping their skills sharp.
<b>Tier 2 Rank</b>: Emissary (2)
<b>Description</b>: Call them the Ambassador, if you will, as far as the other packs know this is the face of Empyreal when the Tier one ranks are unable to meet with other leaders themselves. The Emissary must have great knowledge of all friends and foes, and constantly be seeking to learn more about the world around them and keep up to date on current events in Ardent. The lesser-known duties of this rank include a heavy emphasis on espionage, they are the best of the best when it comes to spying on others be they friend or foe. It never hurts to have dirt on your pals, and the Emissary is the go to for such incriminating information. Darker duties like the assassination of traitors or important enemies fall on this wolf’s shoulders. They are in charge of all Informant ranks. If two wolves attain this role, they may divide the ranks tasks between themselves, more often than not assigning one to focus on duties outside the territory while the other focuses on internal affairs.
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<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Soldier (3)
<b>Description</b>: Their name says it all, really. These are the best fighters Empyreal has to offer, and as such they hold great responsibility. While the Warmaster is in charge of all soldier ranks, they do not oversee the day to day training the way an Elite Soldier does. Leading small groups of Soldiers, they’re expected to oversee their underlings training and ensure no one under their purview is slacking. Frequent sparring and fitness training is a must. As the fighters of the pack, they are in charge of organizing patrols, preparing defenses against attack or invasion, and ensuring the pack is war-ready at all times. While most scouting falls to informants, often times a soldier will accompany them in case things go wrong. The Elite Soldiers will assign Soldiers for such tasks. Their fighting skills should be reasonably high to reflect their ability.
<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Informant (3)
<b>Description</b>: The backbone of Empyreal, for it is not a pack focused on war or peace but rather the gathering of information. Elite Informants are required to have vast knowledge of the terrain, and have explored a vast number of lands in both continents before rising to this rank. Lots of exploring and skill collecting is a must for them. More often than not they will be traveling, leading groups of the lower ranking informants either on missions or for training. It’s not uncommon for ranks who stay within the borders to hardly know these wolves, for they are a busy lot with a great deal resting on their shoulders. Collecting information on both allies and enemies is imperative. Assigning scouting missions to Informants as well as coordinating with the Elite Soldiers to assign backup is only part of their job. Being familiar with the weather patterns in lands near and far is important, as well as seeking to become familiar with all of the territories of Boreas and Auster. In the absence of an Emissary, they must work with the higher ranks to plan what areas to scout most frequently depending on the state of Empyreal’s relations with other packs.
<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Hunter/Huntress (3)
<b>Description</b>: The men and woman who pride themselves on their tracking and hunting abilities, pack members owe these diligent and highly trained hunters for ensuring there are meals aplenty for the scout-heavy pack. As Hunters are not a main focus of Empyreal - but no less valued despite that fact - these are the highest ranked hunters in the pack and as such bear full responsibility for leading and training the other hunters. A vast knowledge of all prey in and around the pack is a must, as well as keen senses and unrivaled tracking ability. These wolves may also be called on to assist Informant ranks if a mission requires a great deal of tracking. Calling pack hunts as well as leading trainings for those they are charged with is important. They may also help see that all of Empyreal’s pups and adult members have a good grasp of hunting and tracking and can fend for themselves if needed. Joint training with other ranks is not uncommon.
<b>Tier 3 Rank</b>: Elite Medic (3)
<b>Description</b>: Another underpopulated but highly appreciated line of ranks, the Elite Medics are akin to their hunter comrades in that they are the highest ranking in their job. As the doctors of this overly involved bunch, the Elite Medics are treated with utmost respect, unofficially acting as the highest rank in tier three. A vast knowledge of herbs and their uses for all kinds of ailments and afflictions is strictly required. They must prove themselves to the Commander his/herself as the best in their field to rise to this rank. Training all medics is one of their greatest responsibilities, along with doctoring any and all injured Emyreans. It is expected for the Elite medic to take on one or more apprentices and ensure that they have a second worthy of replacing them if something should happen.
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<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Soldier
<b>Description</b>: Well versed in the art of battle, these are the main fighters of Empyreal and often stand between the pack and disaster. Protecting the inhabitants of the pack, aiding other ranks on missions outside the borders, maintaining and patrolling the borders, as well as assisting in training apprentices are all duties of these fight-hungry wolves. They are required to train often, and help see that the wolves in other ranks have the basic ability to fight and fend for themselves. The image of Empyreal’s ideal of self-reliance, a Soldier should know a little of everything if they can pick it up, and always be working towards self-betterment and the possibility of ranking up to Elite.
<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Informant
<b>Description</b>: The bulk of the pack. An informant must know the pack lands so well they can walk it effortlessly with their eyes closed. Scouting and learning the terrain and weather-patterns of all surrounding territories is a must as well. The bulk of Empyreal’s activity belongs to them. The nosy, sneaky, sly Informants know anything and everything they can about the world around them. Scouting out other packs, checking on and helping to maintain relations and communicate with allies, investigating enemies or potential enemies, and keeping tabs on the current major events in Ardent are all their responsibilities. Since they leave the pack so often and work closely with each other training with comrades and forming close bonds is highly encouraged. Like the Soldiers, they should always be training and working to rank up. Ambition is rewarded in Empyreal if it is showed consistently.
<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Hunter
<b>Description</b>: Trackers and hunters, these wolves keep their senses sharp and the pack from going hungry. They report to the Elite hunters or another high rank if there is no Elite. These wolves are to be shown respect as they keep Empyreal in business. When the pack isn’t busy sticking it’s nose in everyone’s business, they have been known to trade with allies, which means hunters should not only feed the pack, but gather and save things that may be crafted into items of value. Hunters may accompany Informants on some missions as trackers, though they spend the bulk of their time nearer to the pack. Participation in hunts is mandatory for these wolves unlike the rest of the pack, and just like everyone else they must train and pull their weight to show they are working hard and keeping their skills sharp.
<b>Tier 4 Rank</b>: Medic
<b>Description</b>: What is a busy-body without someone to patch them up when they get hit? Medics are the doctors who tisk and bandage the other pack members when needed. They should always seek to expand their herbal knowledge, as well as ensure they are well versed on wolf anatomy and many methods of healing. Attending all meetings and trainings held by the Elite Healers is a must. If there is no Elite they should be busy vying for the place. Frequent trips in and out of pack lands to gather herbs and resources as well as ensuring the pack is well stocked with all it may need eat up a large amount of their time.
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<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Recruit
<b>Description</b>: New members of the pack and unranked adults. This is not a rank one is meant to hold for long if possible, but rather a point to pause in before picking and training for a certain path. Until they pick a path, Recruits must attend <i>all</i> trainings to help them decide, as well as perform any tasks a higher rank asks of them.If they cannot choose a rank, the Commander may assign them one, most often ranking them as hunters until something else appeals to the recruit in question.
<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Apprentice
<b>Description</b>: Adults and pups who are training with another wolf in an effort to learn to serve in a particular career. It is possible for young children to Apprentice early, though often times they wait until six months but may take no longer than a year. Apprentices are the sole responsibility of their mentor, and must listen to that wolf and train with them frequently to learn the skills they will need. When their mentor or another higher ranking member believe they are ready, they may test with their Mentor and the Commander or Champion to rank up to a tier 4 rank. If the Commander or Champion are not present, the test will not count.
<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Pup
<b>Description</b>: The children of Empyreal. They will be treated with love and kindness, but this does not mean that the youngsters can escape punishment if they do wrong. Exploring the territory, meeting pack members, and following other ranked members are encouraged to help the children choose their future path when it comes time for them to become Apprentices. Additionally, they must learn about Empyreal’s rules, and the basics of what every wolf must know to be self-reliant. No child of a capable age should be helpless if they are lost or alone.
<b>Tier 5 Rank</b>: Veteran
<b>Description</b>: The elderly members of Empyreal, these wolves have given what they have to offer and may now spend time in a less demanding rank. Of course they do not live without responsibility - sharing their knowledge, helping to teach the young pack members, and spreading wisdom are important duties for the Veterans of Empyreal. Treating them with respect is required, as they have earned it in full.
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<b>Tier 6 Rank</b>: Prisoner
<b>Description</b>: Those being held in Empyreal for crimes against the pack or it’s allies. Most often outsiders, they have a very limited range that they may travel within the pack lands to keep them from being able to share knowledge of Empyreal’s inner workings. Depending on their reason for being placed in this rank, it is possible for a wolf to work hard and become a true pack member, but only through <i>dedicated</i> effort on their part. If their crime is too great, they will only be in this rank long enough to await fitting punishment.
<b>Laws</b>:
►The Commander is the ultimate authority - All wolves in Empyreal have one undisputed leader and that is the Commander. What your leader says goes.
►Attendance is not optional - All meetings mandatory for certains ranks should be attended by all wolves in those ranks unless they have legitimate IC reason not to be there, or an absence is posted by the player. Empyreal will have a heavy focus on training, comradery within it’s ranks, and self-improvement which cannot be achieved without hard work, and good attendance.
►Just cause you want it doesn’t mean you’ll get it - While not specified in rank descriptions, it is possible to challenge for some ranks. All rank challenges should be okayed by the commander. If he/she does not see the challenger as worthy of the rank they want, it will not be allowed. Tier one ranks will never be up for challenge, and tier two ranks will require a wolf who most likely has a fair number of skill points under their belt.
►Learn, don’t share - Empyreal is in the business of knowing more than any other pack; it’s their thing. However, sharing pack-related information without the okay of a rank one or two wolf is a punishable offense. Telling other wolves who does or doesn’t live here is unacceptable considering Empyreal’s potential for making enemies as it could put pack members(or ex pack members) in danger. Additionally, members are not to share the packs numbers, ratio of ranks, or any other information that could reasonably be used to hurt the pack or those within it. This is risky business and we need not let anyone have an ounce of power to do Empyreans harm.
►Trespassers beware - Intruders may be attacked on sight. Unless there is reasonable evidence to suggest the wolf intruding within the borders is in need of help, is an ally with permission to enter, or is probably harmless, it is even required to attack potential enemies. Those without reason to enter uninvited should wait at the border or risk bodily harm.
►The more you know - Empyreal focuses heavily on those with Navigation skills unlike other packs. They are heavy in spies and trade in knowledge. Because of this, Informants must do their duty, and should spend a great deal more time outside the borders than most pack wolves do. If an Informant is not performing to the satisfaction of their higher ups they may be assigned a new rank or demoted until they can bring something interesting to prove their capabilities.
►Be wary - Enemies abound, and Empyreal is stationed purposefully close to the bridge between Auster and Boreas. This is to ease travel and situate the pack where they can easily keep tabs on who’s going where, however, it puts them in a vulnerable position. Whenever a member is within pack borders they should be doing patrols every other day if it is not their job, just to ensure there are more eyes to keep watch for potential threats.
►Treat your friends well - Allies are valuable, almost as valuable as knowledge. While they make enemies easily, Empyreal also works hard to maintain friendships. The Emissary and the Informant ranks should make regular trips to ensure friendly packs are doing well, and calls for Empyreals help will never go unanswered.
►Put your money where your mouth is - Lesser known ideals of Empyreal include self-reliance and consistent improvement. If you say you wanna be a great fighter, well, you better prove it you you probably don’t have a place here. Additionally, all wolves in this pack are required to learn the very basics of every skill. This is non-negotiable and it is not uncommon for higher ranks to ensure this is done by testing pack members randomly.
►Learn, learn, learn, train, train, train - That’s right, it should be obvious but the Commander still specifies clearly to every new member; you must attend every training required of your rank unless you are on death’s door or gone on a mission. No exceptions. If you’re in the recruit rank, then you better train with anyone and everyone to figure out what you wanna do and prove you can be good at it. Training outside of the group training called for by higher ranks is required to prove you are keeping your skills sharp and remaining a useful asset to the pack. Basically, don’t be lazy or you’re gunna face some consequences.
►Don’t start what the rest of us gotta finish - Creating unnecessary conflict with other packs is a punishable offense. Don’t do it. Unless you can justify your actions and <i>prove</i> it was reasonable to start shit with somebody, there’s no excuse.
►Sort it out - Conflicts between pack members are expected to be handled maturely. If members cannot work things out they must go to a higher ranking wolf for assistance with their dispute. If they do not and choose to fight, both will be punished.
►Babies - While Iskra doesn’t really wanna know about your sex life, she would like to be apprised of any new lives being brought into the pack, preferably before they are conceived. This is so Empyreal’s population can be monitored so it does not go over it’s maximum members. Of course accidents happen, but, avoid that.
►Think before you leave - While you don’t need to check in every time you leave, always ensure <i>someone</i> reasonably knows where you’re going. Empyreal is home to chaotic types, but not fools. If you’re leaving on a mission then obviously the one who assigned it to you knows, but if you’re a healer or hunter make sure you pass on your intentions so pack members know where to look for you if you’re gone too long!
►Traitor! - Turning one’s back on Empyreal is not something that is taken lightly. To betray them is to betray everyone in the pack. Traitors are to be maimed on sight if they attempt to return to Empyreal’s lands or are caught too close to its borders. As far as deserter or those who simply disappear? They may return but must explain their absence to the Commander’s satisfaction and prove themselves once more as capable, trustworthy members of Empyreal.
►Bonds beyond blood - More than anything, it is desired for members to become close-knit, form friendships and learn to work well in groups. Pack members are all treated as family, whether they are relatives or not. Family of pack members will be treated with similar kindness and often are more easily allied with than total strangers.
<b>Customs</b>
Recruitment festival - Every year Empyreal will host a grand festival meant to draw in new members, allow bonding with their allies, and the possible forming of new friendships and alliances. It takes place in the Prairie, in a select portion that is opened up for outsiders to enter freely for the duration of the festival. Many things occur during this particular festival, including but not limited to,trading with loners and other packs, drinking, recruiting of new members, games, spars, and even the occasional mystery challenge provided by the Commander. The winner of the Commander’s challenge gets a special prize. Rather than having many festivals, since they’re a rather busy bunch, Empyreal packs much of it’s partying into this single grand festival under the guise of wanting to attract new members.
The games - Games are not only for the festival, no, but rather are an important aspect of Empyreal’s training. Members take part in activities and competitions with one another frequently, sometimes led by higher ranks or other times thrown together by lower tiers as a means of both bonding and sharpening their skills. As a navigator-heavy pack group trips into surrounding lands are commonplace, and things like races to set destinations are among the most popular of the games played by members.
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