AURUM EMPIRE

"Inaction breeds doubt and fear.
Action breeds confidence and courage.."

With the taking of a new name this Empire seeks to usher in a new era. With footholds established and their presence immovable, Aurum aims to become a place where followers of the Fallen god whether raised from puppyhood or newly minted in adulthood may reside and grow themselves. A place where fighters may sharpen their battle skills, healers may grow their knowledge to heights unsurpassed, and wolves of all kinds may study the teachings of the great ancestor of the Abraxas. Every member must have a desire to improve his/herself to the best of their ability and raise themselves and their pack to greatness.

Aurum retains many of it’s old aims; to support the Risen Empire in their endeavors, to help its members better themselves, and to retain only those few who can remain unobtrusive and controlled. However, straying from the dramatic entry of the Empires, Aurum does not profess to seek conquest. They seek instead to hold fast to a new purpose - training and acting as support for all packs under Abraxas rule, by developing the physical, mental, and spiritual strength of all it’s members. To create strong and capable wolves of both godly and mortal blood.

Pack color: #e8320b
Claimed territories: Bent Canyon
Former leaders: Ashiel

Pack Roster

TIER 1
Razi	Aurum Empress
-	General
-	Heir
TIER 2
Ashiel	Colonel
-	Ambassador
-	Sage
TIER 3
-	Lieutenant
Pyralis	Spy
-	Tracker
-	Shaman
TIER 4
Typhon	Soldier
-	Scout
Czernobog	Hunter
Zinnia	Hunter
Seth	Healer
Aranea	Healer
TIER 5
-	Elder
Phenex	Commoner
Asharya	Commoner
-	Apprentice
Seiran	Pup
Shilah	Pup
TIER 6
-	Captive
-	Criminal

Pack Ranks

Tier 1

— Aurum Emperor (1) - The ruler of the Aurum Empire and the highest authority in the pack. The Emperor's word is law. This wolf is in charge of making the most important decisions in the pack such as determining alliances, dealing out punishments, and promoting and demoting members within the pack. He or she has been blessed by the Fallen god and gets the final say in who can join the empire and who will be turned away.

— General (1) - The General is second only to the Emperor himself. The General is tasked with overseeing the Eclipse Empire in its entirety and communicating with the Lead General of the Risen Empire when necessary. This position is considered a lead advisory position and this wolf also serves as a second-in-command to the Eclipse Emperor. Their job is to make sure the pack is running efficiently as a cohesive unit and to assist the Emperor with the general tasks of running the pack. They may accept new members, deliver punishment as they see fit, and call meetings.

— Heir (1) - The Emperor-in-training, the Heir may be a child of the Emperor or no relation at all. The role of this wolf is to learn the in's and out's of ruling the Empire and continuing the Abraxas' mission. This wolf will be ambitious and driven to follow the will of the Fallen god and do what is best for the family. When they are deemed ready to begin practicing what they have learned the Heir will have the ability to accept new members, deliver punishment as they see fit, and call meetings.

Tier 2

— Colonel (1) - The most respected fighter in the pack, the Colonel serves as an advisor in matters regarding battle and war. This wolf is in charge of the Lieutenants and Soldiers of the pack. They are expected to hold at least bi-annual training sessions and to work out the best training methods to keep the soldiers skills sharp and the pack at the top of it's game. The Colonel is expected to communicate frequently with the Lieutenants and assist them where needed. In addition they are also responsible for making sure the apprentices going into their field are being adequately trained. The Colonel may discipline the wolves under their command as they see fit as well as call meetings and training sessions.

— Ambassador (1) - An important advisory position, the Ambassador is in charge of communication and intelligence. They are expected to communicate frequently with other packs and conquered lands and ensure that the Spies and Scouts are attending to their duties. They are also responsible for ensuring the apprentices going into their field are adequately trained. The Ambassador is expected to make frequent reports to the Emperor and to develop methods for training those under their care and calling meetings when necessary to collect information. The Ambassador may discipline the wolves under their command as they see fit as well as call meetings and training sessions.

— Sage (1) - Wise and patient the Sage is a talented healer with a wide and thorough knowledge of plants used not only to heal but as well as to harm. This wolf is expected to have an astute understanding of wolf anatomy and of the common ailments and injuries that his or her pack mates may experience. This wolf is expected to hold healing sessions at least annually to ensure that the Shamans and Healers are keeping their skills sharp and that the herb stores are well stocked. In addition the Sage is responsible for educating others about the Fallen god and sorting out religious disputes between members as well as easing new members into the faith.  They are expected to hold an annual meeting or story-telling festival to discuss the faith and strengthen it. This position is also an advisory position and the Sage is expected to keep the Emperor informed on the packs health both physical and spiritual. They are also in charge of making sure the Apprentices going into their field are properly trained. They may discipline the wolves under their command as they see fit as well as call meetings and training sessions.

Tier 3

— Lieutenant (2) - High level fighters the Lieutenants of the pack have had their skills in battle recognized. They may be given special missions, enlisted to help organize raids (along with the Colonel), and are expected to assist the Colonel with training the Soldiers as well as making sure the borders are secure. They may call training sessions and lessons as they see fit, particularly if the Colonel rank is unfilled. While War Bands are not currently a part of the culture of the Eclipse Empire they may be instilled in the future if the warrior population warrants it.

— Spy (2) - Exceptional Scouts that have proven their skills may be promoted to the rank of Spy. Spies are expected to be familiar with the lands of Auster and Boreas as well as the workings of the mind. Masters of stealth and deception these wolves are responsible for gathering information on other packs, their status and their members through scouting along borders, diplomacy and even infiltration. In addition, general knowledge of the land and weather patterns is also important. Reports on newly discovered lands as well as approaching weather patterns are important to the Empire's information network and ability to plan for travel and threatening weather conditions. Spies are expected to assist the Ambassador with training the Scouts and they may call training sessions and hand out assignments as they see fit, particularly if the Sage rank is unfilled. ((Note: Spies will likely not introduce themselves as such but may instead refer to themselves as 'Advisor'))

— Tracker (2) - Notably skilled hunters, Trackers are well versed in prey species of all kinds as well as the environments they are found in and the best way to hunt them. Tracker's are expected to call bi-annual pack hunts and make sure the pack is well fed. They may also be called onto special missions as bounty hunters to help track down criminals and threats to the empire. Tracker's are expected to communicate with the Colonel when necessary, particularly in regards to hunting down other wolves. Trackers manage the Hunters and are responsible for making sure the apprentices in their field are properly trained. They may discipline the wolves under their command as they see fit and call hunts and training sessions as they will.

— Shaman (2) - Expert healers and mystics the Shamans should be familiar with a wide variety of illnesses and injuries and how best to treat them. They are expected to keep the pack well stocked with herbs and poisons, and assist the Sage in training the Healers. They are free to be creative in how they gather plants, whether through traditional gathering or cultivation the Shamans are encouraged to expand the Empires knowledge in these matters. They are also tasked with keeping an eye out for signs from the Fallen god and for prayer to him. Shamans are encouraged to call training sessions, assign herb-gathering tasks and religious events, particularly if the Sage rank is unfilled.

Tier 4

— Soldier (∞) - The warriors of the Eclipse Empire. These wolves are tough as nails and twice as sharp. They are expected to answer the call of the higher ranks and attend all mandatory training sessions and meetings. The Soldiers of the Eclipse Empire must learn to fight on a variety of terrain from the flat fields of the battlefield to the treacherous terrain of their canyon home. Soldiers must be vigilant as part of their primary responsibility is to defend the pack's borders as well as any pack members who may wish for extra protection while out gathering herbs, relaying information, etc. On some occasions they may also be asked to escort criminals and prisoners.

— Scout (∞) - The eyes and ears of the Empire, Scouts should soak up knowledge of their environment and those around them like a sponge. They are expected to gather intelligence in all it's forms whether it is on terrain, weather patterns, other packs, loners or general gossip. They are expected to answer the calls of their superiors and attend all mandatory gatherings and may be given special tasks if there is a particular event or person of interest to the higher ups.

— Hunter (∞) - The hunters of the Eclipse Empire are observant and clever. They are expected to answer the call of the Trackers and those of higher rank as well as attending all mandatory meetings and hunts. Their mission is to make sure the pack is well supplied with fresh meat. More than just killers and cooks, Hunters are expected to have a wide and intimate knowledge of their prey including how to prepare unconsumed parts of their victims such as fur and bones for comfort, decoration and religious rituals.

— Healer (∞) - Calm and enduring, the Healers of the Eclipse Empire are expected to answer the ranks above them whenever that wolf calls together healing meetings or gatherings. They are tasked with making sure their pack mates are in good health and that the dens are well stocked with herbs and poisons. Scouring the land for herbs not only to help but also to harm will be necessary and Healers are expected to constantly learn and expand their knowledge of how to use, preserve, store and transport their findings.

Tier 5

— Elder (∞) - The Elders are older wolves who are ready to retire and live out their final days in some peace. With few duties to tend to the Elders only expectation is to provide wisdom and advice to younger members of the pack. In particular they will be expected to pass on the history of the Abraxas and the legacy of the Fallen god.

— Commoner (∞) - Wolves who have just joined or who are still determining a path for themselves. These wolves are expected to help with any tasks the higher tiers assign to them. In particular they will be expected to participate in pack hunts. Those that linger in this rank to long may risk the Emperor choosing a path for them. The rank of Commoner is meant to be a temporary step on the way to a more purposeful life.

— Apprentice (∞) - Young wolves or those wishing to learn a new trade, these wolves are eager to learn and will be assigned a mentor in the field of their interest. Pups may choose to apprentice with an older wolf when they are 6 months old. When apprentices feel they are ready they may test to see if they can be promoted to a Tier 4 rank.

— Pup (∞) - The young of the pack and the packs future. Pups are to be well-cared for and tended to. They will be encouraged to learn, explore and get a feel for what they would like to be when they are ready to apprentice.

Tier 6

— Captive (∞) - These wolves have been claimed by one of the higher ranks of the Eclipse Empire or may even be members that have fallen from grace and find themselves being held captive. These wolves are expected to do as their told and to behave respectfully. The are required to stay within the pack's borders and may not have contact with outside wolves unless supervised. Through hard work and practiced devotion it may be possible for a Captive to join the ranks of the Eclipse Empire but this is an unusual case.

— Criminal (∞) - These are wolves who have broken the laws of the Eclipse Empire or who have gone against the pack in some way. This rank is intended to be temporary until judgement has been passed and punishment served. Afterwards, depending on the crime, the wolf may either be moved to the Commoner rank to be re-assimilated into the pack, enslaved, or exiled.

Pack Rules, Culture, & History

Loyalty and Respect are King - Loyalty is of great importance to the wolves of the Eclipse Empire. Members of the pack are expected to take pride in their pack and protect their fellows regardless of rank, regardless of mortality. Once a wolf has sworn themselves to the Empire and the ideals of the Fallen god they become more than the common rabble of the surrounding realms. Wolves of the Eclipse Empire are expected to be in it for the long haul and to respect those that outrank them. Respect is also important from those that might visit the Empire. Trespassers and those 'flirting' with the border are expected to be dealt with harshly.

A Conquest of Ideas — As an arm of the Risen Empire the Eclipse Empire seeks to further the goal of spreading the word and belief of the Fallen god. Those that join the pack are expected to respect this dominant belief system and to participate in any rituals surrounding it. Speaking ill of the Fallen god is a quick way to earn his wrath with the Abraxas as the spear. At the moment the Eclipse Empire is unusual in its tolerance of other belief systems in part to the Emperor's personal curiosity. But that is only if the belief systems coexist peacefully with those of the Fallen god and are kept mostly to the practicer's self and the practicer still participates in the rituals surrounding the Fallen god.

Hardwork and Common Sense — If you want to get anywhere in the ranks and earn the admiration of your fellows you'll need to work hard to better yourself and your skills. The Empire is a place for those of a strong backbone or those looking to strengthen theirs. Bloody paws and sweat-stained brows are the badges here. Laze-abouts can expect to be cast from the pack. The wolves of the Eclipse Empire will also be expected to think before they act. The Empire will only stick it's neck out so far for members that compromise the security of the pack.

Hey Baby! — Ashiel is a 'Quality over Quantity' minded individual and as such couples wishing to bear offspring need to make the intent known to Tier 1 wolves so that they can make sure there is enough resources to care for the incoming litters. Failing to do so will result in punishment. Adult wolves are welcome to form any consensual relationships they like with other adults within the pack. Those that form serious relationships with loners or wolves outside the pack will be expected to have their lover join the Empire to minimize split loyalty. Casual flings aren't anything to worry about, have fun kids! Do note that those that breed by force or with minors will be severely punished. Also if you play an Abraxas make sure to read up on Fox's rules regarding those. Namely that Abraxas are meant to be purposeful and picky in choosing mates and that the pups are to be raised within the Empire.

Internal Strife — Disagreements and fights between packmates are bound to happen and the wolves involved are expected to work it out whether verbally or through dominance challenges.  If a dispute can't be readily settled between those involved they are expected to bring it to a higher ranking officer.  The higher-ups will then do their best to help find a peaceful solution to the problem.

POSTING REQUIREMENTS: At the moment there are no requirements beyond what is requested in specific ranks. However, activity will play a strong part in climbing the ranks and in Ashiel's opinion of your character. If deemed necessary posting requirements may be added at a later date. Should the pack begin to become saturated those deemed less active will be the first to be kicked out.

Customs:

As a branch of the Risen Empire, the Eclipse Empire also shares it's customs including the following festivals.

The Full Moon Festival — (Spring: Healing) This festival will take place on the during the night of the first Full Moon of the spring season, once the petals and leaves have emerged. Healers from within the pack and other interested parties will be able to gather together for a string of lessons and tasks led by Tier 1-3 members. (Skill Festival)

The Rising Sun Festival — (Summer: Fighting) This Festival will take place throughout the morning on the longest day of summer. Soldiers will be roused before dawn for a marathon of tasks, spars, and mock battles. Warriors from across the land will be invited to the tourney to pit their skills, and worthy competitors may very well be offered places of rank for a good show. (Skill & Recruitment Festival)

The Land's Bounty Festival — (Autumn: Hunting)This festival takes place after the first frost of the season. With plants and herbs beginning to wither and die, healers will be encouraged to range far and wide to gather what resources the pack yet needs for the winter. Hunters will mass together to provide a feast for those in the Empire and any willing to join their ranks. (Skill & Recruitment Festival)

The Starlit Race — (Winter: Scouting) This gathering is meant for the navigators, spies, and scouts of the pack. During the new moon closest to the winter solstice, they will be given a challenge by a ranking member of the pack that must be completed before the sun rises the following day. This may be a mission or strategy, a riddle, a quest to find an item of sorts, or something else entirely. Each year the challenge will change.

BI-ANNUAL MEETINGS:

Like the Risen Empire the Eclipse Empire will also have Bi-Annual meetings. On occasion these may be join meetings with the Risen Empire.

Vernal Gathering: Transition of Winter to Spring // A trade festival centered around meats/furs/other non-perishable items such as jewelry and items that have lasted through the colder months. It is considered a chance for the Empire to show of it's wealth and power, and it is expected the members put on a good show. Violence is not permitted at this festival.

Autumnal Gathering: Transition of Summer to Autumn // A trade festival centered around the exchange of herbs and intelligence. Finer goods and exotic items such as alcohol, metalwork, tinder supplies, etc are more likely to be on display. The purpose of this festival is for the Abraxas to gather information and parry wits with members from other lands and perhaps enemy packs as well. Violence is not permitted at this festival.

Pack History:

• Ashiel defeats Dragon in battle, wining the pack challenge. In the bloody light of a lunar eclipse he lays claim to the Bent Canyon and begins his empire.
  
  

PACK RELATIONS & NEWS

Allies/Standings:

Abaven — Unknown
Celestial — Unknown
Lirim — Unknown
Niente — Unknown
Risen Empire — Allies
Ruina — Unknown

Pack News:

5-05-18 » Ashiel hold the hunt for the Full Moon Festival
4-15-18 » Ashiel and Malleus call the Risen and Eclipse Empires together for the Full Moon Festival!
4-14-18 » Ashiel calls the pack together to discuss future plans and expanding into a new territory
2-15-18 » The Eclipse Empire is founded! Ashiel has defeated Dragon in battle and raised a new pack from the ashes.