THE AUSTERIAN KINGDOM
HERD INFORMATION
Gender Terms:
Males = Stags
Females = Does
Young = Fawns
Typical Build:
Light, Light-Medium, Medium
Height Range:
16-19 hands (Stags), 16-18 (Does).
Preferred Coat Colors:
Anything silver or solid!
MAGIC TYPES
Common Magic:
Laurel Magic
Uncommon Magic:
Earth Magic
Rare Magic:
Poison Magic
Extra Rare Magic:
Esprit Magic
(Traditionally Queen's Line Only!)
HERD SPECS
Automatic Mutations:
Branching Tines
Magic-based Mutations
Herd Mutations:
Deer-like Features
(Cloven Hooves, Deer Tails, Deer Noses, Deer Fangs, etc!)
Diet:
Herbivorous
Territories Held:
Auster Wood
Carlin Forest
DEITIES & LEADERS
Queen of Auster:
King of Auster:
Crown Princess of Auster:
Not Yet Named
Ambassador:
None
Introduction
Beneath the proud boughs of a primeval forest lies the kingdom of Auster, home to the deer-like Austerian herd!
A peaceful herd, those that live in Auster are an honorable but private race that generally keep to themselves. In fact, historically, the doors to their forest used to be completely closed to outsiders! After the hostile takeover of the forest by the Shadow Alliance in the spring of the year 1994 and the massive battle to reclaim it in the winter of the year 1996, the Austerians have opened up avenues of trade and commerce to all inhabitants of Anomalous. The Austerians are the only herd to be led by a Queen, oversees the safety and welfare not only of the people but of all forms of life within the forest - as well, of course, as the forest itself!
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Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of the Austerian culture is the fact that they live not in dens but in elaborate homes built into the trees themselves! With skilled Laurel and Earth mages capable of manipulating both plant and stone, these homes are whimsically crafted into the trees with magic. These Austerian homes are, in fact, still living so require constant maintenance to keep them from overgrowing.
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Arguably one of the oldest herds in Anomalous, the Austerians have an intricate social system based on pedigree - though all Stags and Does are considered EQUAL within their ranks, there is no gendered hierarchy within the herd! Thus, bloodlines are carefully tracked, as some are considered 'more pure' than others due to their supposed relation to the very first Queen of Auster, the demigoddess Vitae'a. Those who can claim (even distant) relation to this 'Queen's Line' are given luxurious titles such as 'Lord' or 'Lady' and enjoy the perks of the well-to-do. The bulk of the herd, however, is made up of the common folk - though their lack of a fancy title doesn't stop them from having their own fun!
Because of the painstaking collection of familial records, monogamy is highly encouraged (especially among the royals) and marriages, when they occur, are taken quite seriously! While an Austerian may have a number of flings throughout their life without retribution, the moment they take on a husband/wife they make a commitment for life. Marital affairs in the highest ranks are seen as incredibly scandalous and can even result in execution or exile! Commoners of the herd have little fear of this, however, as their bloodlines are considered more common, and less subject to scrutiny.
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Pre-marriage flings in ranks of Lord/Lady or below are not punished officially (as mentioned prior), nor is producing a foal out of wedlock - aside from snubs and gossip from their betters, of course! However, Princesses are held to a higher standard (They are closely related to the queen, afterall!), and having foals before marriage is HIGHLY frowned upon - Social stigmas and the eyes of the Queen go a long way to deter this kind of frivolous behavior.
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While Austerians can commit to a number of occupations, the most prestigious position - aside from being a Queen, of course! - is to be a member of the Austerian guard. The guard is, perhaps, one of the most well-trained groups in Anomalous and individuals tend to be skilled in both physical and magical combat. It is considered quite honorable to serve in the guard and, while royals and commoners alike take great pride in serving the forest as a guard, the guard offers those of the lower class a chance to earn themselves higher positions/titles in society! Both stags and does can enter the guard but it takes a year-long squire-ship to even be considered, so it isn't for the faint of heart.
General Appearance
Austerians are, perhaps the herd with the closest ties to their equine ancestors. With only deer-like mutations to be found here, Austerians - much of the time - can look very much like the legendary unicorns of lore.
Extremely tall and light of frame, the Austerians are never shorter than 16 hands and tend to have lighter builds, although heavily-framed individuals are not uncommon. Stags average 16-19 hands (with a rare few reaching heights in excess of 20 hands) while does seem to keep within the 16-18 hands range.
Loud and excessive coat colors - such as paint patterns - are deemed quite unfortunate, as they tend to look quite messy while solid coats with minimal/symmetrical white markings are considered quite attractive; for an Austerian, appearing clean-cut and sharp is a must! To be considered truly beautiful, though, is to be born with a coat of silver and have green eyes (especially in does) as the first queen of the forest had a similarly colored coat.
Austerians have quite refined, angular features and it is this austere countenance from which their herd pulls its name!
Diet & Habitat
Diet Type: Herbivore
Austerians are the only herd left in Anomalous that eats an entirely meatless diet! It is also this vegan diet that is believed to be the cause of the extended lifespan of an Austerian, although others will argue it is the presence of so many skilled healers. Austerian meals are made up of a variety of greens, fruits, and vegetables with feasts featuring vast buffets of different salads and breads.
The Austerians live in the lush, old growth forests of the Auster Wood and Carlin Forest. The trees are massive here, growing larger and faster than normal thanks to the abundant Laurel and Earth magic users that inhabit the forest. There are very few predators in the forest (the guard chased out most of them centuries ago) although from time to time a bear or wolf pack will manage to wander into the forest! There are hundreds plants species that inhabit the forest, some of which are deadly, so unless you are familiar with the flora it is best to leave things well alone.
Of all the herds, Auster's forests experience the most varied seasons. The forest stays lush and warm during the spring and summer, cool and garbed in an array of autumnal colors during the fall, and sometimes heavy snowfall during the winter! Thanks to the plentiful Laurel and Earth mages in the forest, regardless of the season the forest stays in full bloom. It is also thanks to this ability to grow their own food that Austerians never have to worry about going hungry and are one of the largest exporters of plant-based foods.
Trade Market Note!
When it comes to trade items, the Austerians are most-well known for their exquisite wines, plant-based foods, and wooden furniture of extremely high quality!
Austerian Deities
Vae’a is the goddess of the forest and of all living things, a deity often appearing in the form of a silvery colored doe with brilliant, wide eyes as green as the forests set in a deer-like skull. Vae’a is worshipped by all Austerians as the Mother of all things living. Every spring they have a grand festival in her honor, in which they plant fresh oak sapling for each new fawn born to the herd to pay homage to the sapling that she gave her mortal form to save.
According to legend, Vae’a sacrificed herself to save a young oak sapling when a vicious fire wrecked through her forest. When her burned and bloodied mortal form was found by a young, dark-coated mortal mare, the wounded goddess made the mare promise to watch over the forest in her stead and, upon the mare’s agreement, imbued the mare with her spirit and power. As Vae’a’s power flowed into her veins, the dark mare’s coat took on the silvery and doe-like appearance of the forest goddess and became the first Austerian Queen, Vitae'a!
Vitae'a, according to Austerian records, led her people through an ancient civil war that ravaged Anomalous after a divine fire swept over the land and destroyed anyone and anything in its path. Regrettably, it was this civil war that fostered the roots of the Shadow Alliance, whose jilted ancestors held enough of a grudge to aspire to, one day, take back the forests that they deemed as theirs.
Vae'a, Primary Deity
Goddess of the Forest
Vitae'a, Demigod
The First Queen of Auster
Austerian Leaders
While both a king and a queen are acknowledged within the kingdom of Auster, it is the Queen who holds all the power! Believed to be a direct descent of the demigoddess, Vitae'a, the Queen handles any and all issues within the herd as well as ensuring the safety of the forest.
The King and Queen are a monogamous pair who must produce at least one son and - more importantly - one daughter to continue their line and inherit the title of Queen. Adultery between the king and queen is seen as high treason and a massive betrayal to the herd. Sons of the King and Queen are named princes and, while they are raised in a life of finery, are expected to join the guard’s elite; if they fail, they are seen as a failure! When the Queen has birthed a daughter - dubbed a princess - a grand celebration is held! The eldest daughter of the King and Queen is named the Crown Princess and is immediately groomed to one day become Queen. When a Crown Princess becomes of breeding age, she may choose a mate for herself from among the most worthy stags of the guard. However, she must choose carefully as it is he that will one day help to lead the Austerian guard!
Neither the Queen, King, nor the position of Crown Princess may be challenged for. Once held, the position is a commitment for life. Attempts on the life of any of these individuals results in immediate execution - always.
Queen of Auster
King of Auster
Crown Princess
None Named
Ambassador of Auster
None
Magic Types
Common:
Laurel
Laurel magic gifts a caster with the ability to manipulate all manners of plant-life around them! Laurel mages are responsible for the exaggerated growth in Austerian forests and, because of their ability to bring plants to life even in the thickest snows, the herd never has to worry about going hungry! While seen as a peaceful magic in practice, in the wrong hands it can be quite destructive.
Uncommon:
Earth
Earth mages have the ability to manipulate the very earth upon which they stand! Earth mages cannot manipulate plants like their Laurel brothers and sisters but they can increase the fertility of the soil itself and, at higher levels, control massive earthen golems! Earth mages are the backbone of the prestigious Austerian guard - after all, diamond-hard tines that never shed are quite imposing.
Rare:
Poison
Poison magic doesn't crop up all that often within the Austerian herd but, when it does, the mages tend to catch a bad rep due to the potent toxins they can secrete! While such powers can corrupt an individual, Poison mages who mean well can actually be extremely accomplished healers capable of combating nearly every poison currently found in Anomalous! Poison mages wok closely with plants and, as such, often become accomplished herbalists in their own right.
Extra-Rare:
Esprit
Esprit magic originated from the goddess Vae'a, when she gifted it to the silver doe who served as the first queen of Auster and brought peace to the herd during a time of destructive civil war. With the ability to not only heal severe wounds and boost the magic of others around them but also shield both magical and physical attacks, this magic strain is quite powerful in its own right if wielded cleverly! Only those of the Queen's Line, historically, have this magic but - from time to time - it crops up within the commoner class. This magic type is seen as a blessing for all of those who inherit it!
Mutations
Remember!
Automatic Mutations are mutations that nearly every purebred Austerian character will have - in fact, it would be deemed extremely odd if they didn't have these mutations! Herd Mutations are mutations that can only be found in a particular herd. Common Mutations are mutations that are commonly found across Anomalous. For more information on mutations, see the Mutations journal.
Herd Mutations | Deer-Like Features
The mutations of an Austerian can morph equine features into those of a deer. From cloven hooves to even a tufted deer tail, it is this cervine appearance for which the Austerians are known! Austerians have no prejudice against having out of herd mutations in their herd!
Branching Tines (Automatic)
Regardless of their coat color, all Austerians (or, at least, most of them) are born with the largest antlers to be found in Anomalous! While other herds never see horns with more than three pairs of tines, an Austerian can easily have a 12-point rack - or more! Stags and does alike can carry beautifully branched tines, although the racks of does tend to be much more quaint and delicate in appearance than those of an Austerian stag. Horns do not typically begin to grow in until an individual's fifth year but these tines will continue to grow in size and grandeur through the rest of their lives. In the spring, stags/does alike lose their horns and it is considered a season of peace/life for the herd. The only stags/does who do not lose their antlers are the Earth mages who, thanks to their stone-like antlers, never lose their racks! However, this means that any damage to an Earth mage's tines is permanent!
When a new fawn is born beneath the trees of the Auster Wood, the fawn’s forehead is immediately checked for a mark known as the ‘Auster’. It is a simple, white mark in the shape of the Northern Star that quickly fades within the fawn’s first weeks of life. The presence of this mark on a fawn’s brow indicates that they will eventually sprout horns! It is seen as a tragedy/curse if a fawn is born without an Auster. It is hotly disputed amongst the Austerians whether fawns born without an Auster are truly cursed but, regardless, an Auster-less fawn can never hope to join the prestigious Austerian guard. In the lower class, being born without an Auster is not uncommon!
* Small note about Auster-less Austerians! *
Being born without an Auster is seen as a tragedy/curse as superstitions state that the fawn will never grow a rack! For your ease, if you choose to have an Austerian who was born without an Auster, here are your options! Remember, this option is completely at your discretion and we do not force you/RNG an option for you UNLESS you would like us to!
Option 1
Horns will never grow.​
Option 2
Horns will grow, although it will be deformed/misshapen (particularly with Laurel users).
Option 3
​Horns will grow and, despite superstition, will be just fine (particularly with Earth users).
Magic-Based Mutations (Automatic)
In addition to their deer-like appearance, another quirk exclusive to Austerians is the physical representation of magic upon their bodies! While Laurel users may be covered head to toe in leafy growths, Earth mages often have racks made of gemstones - making them highly prized members of the prestigious Austerian guard. Esprit magic users typically have fewer magic-based mutation features or some combination of other, herd-based magical mutations. See the chart below for more information! Magic-based mutations can cover an individual's entire body or be almost non-existent. The way that each
Laurel-Based
Laurel casters with the Magic-based Mutation can gift a character with any manner of plant-based mutations! From a flowery mane to a set of horns that grows succulents on a whim, creativity is your only boundary here! Bark, moss, leaves, etc will replace the fur where they grow and will hurt if plucked from the skin! Laurel-based mutations can shift with the passing of seasons if you so desire.
Earth-Based
Earth-based mutations can have a number of effects upon the coat of an Austerian! Gemstones that stud an Austerian's coat, a permanently dusty appearance, or rock-like scales are just a few ideas of what an Earth mage's magical mutations might look like. Regardless of what other ways their magic may manifest, all Earth mages with the Magic-Based Mutation will have rock-hard tines that never shed that can even be made of gemstones!
Poison-Based
Poison mages tend to have magic-based mutations similar to Laurel casters - with a toxic twist! While they can have glowing green saliva if you so desire, far more often the plant-like growths (such as leaves) that grow upon a Poison caster's coat might appear completely normal but might be incredibly toxic! Thankfully, Poison mages can also create antidotes in case anyone accidentally gets poisoned!
Esprit-Based
Esprit's magical mutations can equally be the most simple or most complex of the bunch! Esprit's magic mutations might be as innocent as glittering dust that falls off of them like dandruff or a permanent, oil-like sheen that gives the individual's coat a rainbow-y appearance but can also be a complex mix of Laurel and Earth mutations! Generally, Esprit users don't shed their tines during the spring unless they are females.
Herd Celebrations
Common Events
Princess Ceremony
Occurs whenever a princess has given birth to a new princess!
The new princess is presented to the herd for the first time and is often given toys or gifts by those seeking the princess’s favor. The ceremony is held in the evening where a dinner of edible petals is consumed. When the princess has been put to bed, the adults of the herd often stay up long into the night dancing and celebrating and telling stories. When the mother of the new princess retires, most choose to follow suit. A similar version of this ceremony occurs upon the birth of a new princess from the Queen! However, this event is much bigger and often lasts for up to a week as various royals try to outdo one another in an effort to earn the Queen's favor.
Coronation Ceremony
Occurs in three different circumstances!
When the eldest princess of the Queen comes of age (~ Spring of 3 years of age, when she is proven to possess Esprit magic) and can be appointed as Crown Princess, when the Queen retires and the torch is passed to the Crown Princess, or when a King is chosen! Since these events do not happen very often, it is a source of mass pomp and celebration. Held in the afternoon with a hors d'oeuvres of fresh fruits, the ceremony itself is rather quick and straight forward beneath the boughs of the White Oak. However, the rest of the day is spent partying and socializing with the newly crowned heir, queen, or king! Business and trade of any sort on this day is seen as rude, as all those belonging to the herd are expected to attend - regardless of rank - and bestow their congratulations and loyalty to the newly crowned individual!
Royal Wedding
Occurs with the marriage of the new king and queen!
It isn't often that a Queen marries and so, when she does, it is a grand affair, sometimes even featuring goods specially imported from the other herds (Linxian grog, anyone?). The marriage is held in the evening and lasts all through the night! All herds members are invited and expected to attend to congratulate the newly married couple. The queen and her new king are lavished with gifts, especially from royals hoping to find favor with the queen and king.
Promise Ceremony
Occurs when two Austerians get married!
Weddings are filled with guests close to the couple or those seeking to win the couple’s favor (especially when concerning those of the Queen’s line)! Can be held at any time of day and in any season. At the minimum, hor’doeuvres are expected to be served by the newly weds for their guests. Among the royals, lackluster meals or entertainment can often lead to gossip and shaming of the quality of the marriage! The Promise Ceremony is a public announcement of their commitment to one another and is a time to be celebrated.
Seasonal Events
Celebration of Spring's Coming
Occurs on the first day of spring.
As soon as the snows of winter begun to melt away, it is time to shake off the snow and bring the forest back to life! Spring's Coming is a time of excitement for the herd where royals and commoners alike unite to dance through the forest and wake up the trees from their winter slumbers. Austerians decorate themselves in flowers and streamers in pastel colors and dance through the forest, using the combined efforts of magic to bring the plants back to life. It is a grand, herd-wide affair and the forest echoes with the laughter of those who gallivant through the forest, leaving all manner of things green in their wake. For royals, it is fair near a requirement to participate, as this was the duty of the first royals - to bring the forests out of winter and, especially among the commoners, fawns from the year before are tasked with finding colorful eggs adults have painted and hidden through the forest!
Sapling Ceremony
Occurs at the end of every summer.
At the end of summer, when all the fawns for the season have been born, a sentimental ceremony known as the Sapling Ceremony is held. A new oak sapling is planted for every fawn born during the birthing season and it is one of the few times were the entire herd is present! Parents of new fawns plant the sapling together and, after the last sapling is planted, a feast of prepared fresh greens is had at sunset and a lighthearted dance is held. It is a time of peace and, with horns that have shed in velvet, young stags and does hoping to find romance in the following seasons often use this dance to let potential suitors aware of their interest!
Guard Ceremony
Occurs every fall.
This ceremony honors all does and stags who have successfully moved from the ranks of the hopeful to the proud station of Guard! It is a formal ceremony that the Queen and King attend but it is not a ceremony required to be viewed by the herd in its entirety and most often consists of family members, friends, or those seeking favor in the eyes of the Guard! This ceremony is held at sunrise and a brunch is served in their honor. Often the ceremony is called to a close by the afternoon, although the newly appointed guards often party into the night with close friends.
Winterspar
Occurs every winter.
With the forests coated in a layer of snow, it is imperative to keep oneself limber! Thus was born the Winterspar, a winter tournament within which stags and does alike compete to prove themselves! It is quite the affair, with stands set up on either side of a sparring arena. Royals with connections get the best seats at the higher rungs while, down below, commoners jam together at the arena's edge to get a better view! Competitors are tasked with a joust-like spar aiming to trip up their opponent - honorably, of course! Stags and does that perform well here often catch the eye of potential mates while others use it to settle scores and vendettas against enemies. Wine barrels are pulled out by the dozens for the spectators so, by the end of the night, it can be quite a drunken affair and, predictably, fights do break out but, with a heavy guard presence ready and waiting nearby, fights are not allowed to get bloody!
Herd Bloodlines
As aforementioned, the Austerian culture is perhaps one of the most intricately organized of all the herds of Anomalous. Based on carefully tracked bloodlines, some family lines are considered more 'pure' than others as they supposedly can be tracked to the line of queens! Note that royals of all ranks are closed for creation without a token/reward purchase. Remember, these titles are not necessarily occupations - a Lord can also be a member of the guard, a Commoner can also hold a job as a healer, etc.
Please note that there is no rank difference between Stags and Does. A Lord and a Lady are EQUAL, as are Dukes and Duchesses, Knights and Dames. etc. There is NO gendered rank difference in the Austerian Kingdom!!
Prince/Princess
Requirements: Prince/Princess Locked Rank.
The princes and princesses of Auster are the gems of the forest! Born out of princess mothers, both princes and princesses automatically inherit the precious Esprit magic that the Austerian royals hold so dear. While princesses are forbidden from breeding outside of their marriage, princes have no such constraints - although they are encouraged to not to do so. While princes have a small chance of being able to pass along Esprit magic to their offspring, a prince's children will hold the title of Lord/Lady unless he himself marries another princess. Sons/daughters out of a Princess will, however, always be Princes/Princesses. Those who are lucky enough to marry a prince or princess automatically experience a rise in rank themselves and ensure that their children will be princes and princesses themselves! Prince and Princesses have direct ties to the Queen's Line since their mothers were all princesses - quite an honor indeed!
Lads/Maidens
Requirements: At least one PC parent with the rank of Knight/Dame + Commoner Rank unlock if not born IG.
While not truly members of the guard, it is worth mentioning that characters with at least one PC parent can claim the calling of Lad (males) or Maiden (females). This affords an individual some respect - especially if they are of commoner roots - but can also put on the pressure for them to perform just as well as their parent did. The rank of lad/maiden does not pass on further through the generations.
Lord/Lady
Requirements: Lord/Lady Locked Rank.
Lords and ladies are the keepers of the forest. While the guard protects it, it is the duty of the Royals to keep the forest itself strong, pristine, and in full bloom even in the dead of winter. They are expected to have strong magical talents if nothing else. Royals who fail to perform their expected duties may even be stripped of their rank! The oldest families have tree-houses so extensive that they can span across several trees or even whole sections of forest! Most tree-houses have bridged pathways between each household to allow for easier travel but the more private families may prefer to keep only one entrance. Remember that Lords/Ladies are distantly related to the Queen's Line (cousins, sons of princes, etc).
Commoner
Requirements: Commoner Rank Unlock
While commoners cannot claim to be directly related from a past Queen, the commoners make up the bulk of the herd and can hold a wide variety of jobs without the stresses of royal shenanigans! From farmers and doctors, to musicians and servants, the lower class is the glue that keeps the herd together. While there is pressure from the upper class and the guard to make sure that they perform their duty to the herd, the lower class have less to lose should things go awry! Commoners may have a higher frequency of fawns born without horns (which can cause conflict with the old Royal families), but overall, they live a happy, regimented life at the base of, or within, the trees.
Duke/Duchess
Requirements: Duke/Duchess Locked Rank.
Generally, Dukes and Duchesses are stags and does who have taken a lord or a lady as a spouse! They can also be the child of a lord or lady who has not been claimed by one parent or the child of a lord/lady out of a duke/duchess or commoner. The oldest families frown upon Dukes and Duchesses as they find them ‘impure’ but, since they are given their title out of love, most of the herd think they’re just fine! (Who cares what those inbred old ninnys think anyway!?) If the mate of a Duke or Duchess dies, they are permitted to keep their title as Duke or Duchess. If they take a new spouse of a lower class, their children will take on the rank of Duke or Duchess!
Knight/Dame
Requirements: At least three years of in-game service within the guard + at least 1 Master Skill (15+ Years)
The titles of Knight or Dames are honorary titles given to those who have served faithfully over the course of many years or have shown great bravery in battle. Akin to royalty, this rank is a new honor crafted by Queen Cadhara in the Spring of the year 1997 to honor those who have dedicated their lives to the safety and welfare of the forest and its people. While Knight/Dames are treated with the respect of lords and ladies regardless of their birthrights, these titles are earned only by those who earn it - therefore, it is an honor that cannot be passed down to the next generation! To honor the proud stags and does who have earned this title, their direct descendants (aka, sons/daughters) are given the honorary calling of Lads to sons and Maidens to daughters. This title will not pass to grandchildren.
Breeding Rank Possibilities
Lost on if a fawn will be royalty or not? What if the dam only claims them and the lord doesn't? Or want to create a scandalous fawn of an affair? You can use this handy spreadsheet laying down all possibilities! If you're still not sure about something, feel free to note the group or the questions channel in Discord.
Herd Ranks
Austerian Guard
The guards that patrol the Austerian borders are some of the most skilled and disciplined soldiers in all of Anomalous. Stags and does of all ranks (even Prince and Princesses!) may become guards but it takes a lot of work and skill to become a guard of Auster. All that hard work is worth it though; those who successfully pass the rigorous training enjoy the benefits of an upper class lifestyle and can even earn themselves titles when, otherwise, they would have none. Ranks are determined according to their skill and experience. Those that are truly worth their salt can even aspire to join the ranks of the Queen's Guard - a rank afforded only to the most skilled guards of Auster!
In order to join the guard, a year-long squire-ship is required to be completed. During this time, aspiring guards - called squires - tag along with other experienced members of the guard on patrols so that they can learn the in's and out's of the position. At the end of the year, squires are given an evaluation and those who successfully complete their preliminary training course are promoted to guards in the fall at a grand ceremony! The Queen and King themselves are present and, as a 'thank you' for the life of service that they will enter, the Queen gifts them with a one-time permanent boost in magic!
Squires (Aspiring Guards)
Requirements: None (3+ years of age).
Squires are the brave young stags/doe who aspire to join the guard! Squires must complete a year-long trial period within which they serve alongside an experienced member of the guard who evaluates their potential. In the fall following their year-long squire-ship, those that have proven themselves worthy are inducted into the guard in a grand ceremony before the herd. While not everyone succeeds the first time around, squires are given three chances - aka, three years - to impress their mentors. If a squire fails all three squire-ships, they are no longer eligible to join the guard.
Brigadier
Requirements: At least two skills at Advanced level (12+ years of age)
Lieutenants that show promise in a leadership role can hope to become Brigadiers! Brigadiers are tasked with commanding a force of two to three Lieutenants and, by extension, all those that fall under the command of those individuals! For many, this is a true test of their ability to lead. It takes honor and a true sense of responsibility to be a respected Brigadier but those that reach this rank are well on their way to becoming generals. Brigadiers can organize campaign patrols of the farther reaches of the forest and take orders directly from Generals that they serve beneath.
Guards
Requirements: Year-long squire-ship (5+ years of age).
Those who have graduated from the rank of squire can officially call themselves members of the Austerian guard! This is only the beginning of a surely lucrative career if one dedicates themselves fully to the guard. Guards, as the lowest level within the guard's hierarchy, are often saddled with the most grueling/laborious jobs, such as cleaning the barracks and going on the farther reaching patrol routes. Oftentimes, these green guards are referred to as 'grunts' by the higher-ups! While it may not be as glamorous a job at the moment, if you do you duty with minimal complaints, surely a higher-up will notice you and have you promoted swiftly.
Generals
Requirements: At least two skills at Master level (15+ years of age)
After many years of service, guards can hope to one day become Generals! Generals are the leaders of the pack, so to speak, and take orders directly from the Queen and King themselves - however, for the most part, generals are responsible for the day-to-day responsibilities that are assigned to those below them. Generals are afforded immense levels of respect from the herd, as many of them entered the guard at a mere five years of age and have, at this point, served the guard for at least a decade! Generals are given the responsibility of commanding up to five Brigadiers each and, by extension, all those that fall beneath them - all told, this can add up to a maximum of seven scores of guards to command! While being a General is no cup of tea, those who have risen to this rank are afford extreme amounts of respect by the herd and, thus, must act with honor and integrity. Within the guard, there is no higher leadership one can hope to achieve!
Colonel
Requirements: At least one skill at Medium level (6+ years of age)
Guards who have proved their worth are promoted to the rank of Colonel! While still one of the lower ranks within the guard, colonels do not hold very much power but no longer have to do as much grunt work as they did when they first entered. Colonels are often given the responsibility of leading small patrols of up to five new recruits and, as far as guard hierarchy goes, have garnered at least some respect from their fellow compatriots.
Queen's Guard
Requirements: At least three skills at Master level (15+ years of age)
Individuals who have proven themselves to be worth their salt in the guard but perhaps aren't inspired to pursue the rank of General can shoot to aim for the Queen's Guard. The individuals of the Queen's Guard are specially chosen by the Queen herself to be a member of this prestigious task force. While it is an incredible honor to be a member of the Queen's Guard, they do often deal with the most dangerous tasks/missions - these individuals may even be saddled with special operation missions that are top secret! Queen's Guards take orders from the Queen herself but do not command anyone beneath them. Those that are a part of this specially trained force are sworn to keep their missions entirely classified, thus it can be a rather stressful job. However, those that make it as a Queen's Guard are automatically given a Knight/Dame title - an honorary title akin to royalty!
Lieutenant
Requirements: At least one skill at Advanced level (10+ years of age)
It takes many years of service but those who have dedicated to the guard for the long-haul can hope to reach the rank of Lieutenant! Lieutenants often have already been serving in the guard for a number of years by the time they reach this position and, as such, finally have risen to a rank within the guard that affords them some power! Lieutenants often head units comprised of two-three Colonels who themselves command up to five guards! While Lieutenants generally complete the orders of their superiors, they do have the responsibility of organizing patrols and training those under their command. For many, the rank of Lieutenant is the first taste of true leadership a guard may have and, if they prove themselves here, stags and does may very well prove themselves worthy of another promotion.
Other Ranks/Occupations
It takes a village to keep the cogs of the Austerian kingdom turning. While not every can claim to be a lord or lady or the realm or doesn't have the drive to become a member of the guard, there are plenty of other occupations within which an Austerian can make a name for themselves. Note that, while we have listed out a few occupations below, this is by no means a complete list! Want your Austerian to run a zoo? Why not, go for it! We encourage creativity and do not wish for you to feel limited.
Ambassador
Requirements: None (10+ years of age)
After the established peace treaty between Auster and Saraph, the title of Ambassador was formed as a necessity by Queen Cadhara in order to ensure that the terms and conditions are actualized in Saraph nation. Whether a doe or a stag, they are assigned to represent their kingdom and will play a vital part of the political game. They are the ears and eyes of Auster, expected to report back to their Queen on a regular basis, providing her with information whether the workers are paid the correct amounts or are treated fairly. While they are given a unique experience to learn and travel to a foreign nation, a lot of pressure is laid on their shoulders and not everyone can handle the weight. The amount of classified information that they carry is one of the greatest responsibilities that an Austerian can take on, which on the other hoof will reward them with a lot of respect and admiration in the eyes of their herd.
Vignerons
Requirements: Laurel magic.
Vignerons are a sub-class of Gardeners who specialize specifically in the growing of wine grapes! In most cases, Vignerons are commoners who grow wine grapes and sell them to the royals who have not only the time but the funds to turn the grapes into fine, Austerian wines. A vigneron who can grow a prime wine grape can become enormously wealthy by selling their grapes or exporting them to other lands!
Hoofmaiden
Requirements: Female only!
Hoofmaidens are a small sub-class of the servant rank who serve as a royal doe's personal maid. Hoofmaidens are, oftentimes, allowed to live within their charge's home in exchange for constant care. Skilled hoofmaidens are, in fact, quite in-demand as they can help to keep a royal doe's appearance ship-shape! Hoofmaidens are expected to be well-mannered and educated so, if a servant is lucky enough to be hired for such a position, she can be ensured a proper education!
Crafter
Requirements: None.
Crafters use their artistic skills to craft unique pieces such as jewelry or paintings! This is a popular occupation for not only commoners but also for royals (especially does) who have love to express themselves through art. Crafters whose wares become rather popular can attain great wealth by selling in demand items.
Groundworker
Requirements: Earth magic skill at Medium level.
Groundworkers are Earth mages who have chosen to use their earth magic to improve the quality of the soils around the forest. It can be quite a messy job (after all, they are working hands-on in dirt) but, without Groundworkers, the soils of the forest would quickly become barren of nutrients with the amount of food that is grown in Auster. Groundworkers often work closely with Gardeners and Woodworkers, both improving the quality of the soil that the plants feed upon but also providing solid foundations to the massive tree-houses that Austerians live in. Groundworkers are almost exclusively of the commoner class and, while it can be difficult to carve a living out as a Groundworker, those that prove themselves with an eye for hte earth can earn a pretty penny!
Undertaker
Requirements: None (Earth magic recommended).
Undertakers have the somber job of preparing bodies for burial in the Austerian graveyards. It is a job that not everyone can handle but Undertakers - while sometimes a bit odd or eccentric in personality - are given plenty of respect for what they do. Once a body has been prepared, funeral arrangements are made and a grave is dug. After the body is placed in the ground and covered, a tree sapling (most often grown from the seeds of the family's treehouse) is grown upon them as the ceremony is held. A funeral someone who had been of a high rank is quite a formal affair. Those who cannot afford an expensive burial may not be able to afford an Undertaker's full services.
Entertainer
Requirements: None.
This rank encompasses a broad variety of entertainers, such as musicians, singers/songwriters, dancers, etc. Especially skilled entertainers may even be asked to perform for important events such as a coronation or a marriage - a high honor indeed! While some royals do decide to become entertainers, this occupation is especially popular among the common-folk, who have long thrived on storytellers and their ability to make trinkets in order to make some extra cash.
Healer
Requirements: Medium skill in Herbs/Medicine, Esprit, or Poison magic (6+ years of age)
Those who dedicate themselves to the life of a healer may come from many walks of life. Whether they use their Esprit or Poison magics to their advantage or prefer to use the healing properties of the plants around them, healers seek to heal the wounds or ailments of those around them. Healers of higher levels can, in fact, have some level of renown in the forest regardless of their bloodline. Poison mages can do quite well as healers, since their magic allows them to be able to combat various poisons and toxins.
Woodworker
Requirements: Laurel magic skill at Medium level.
Woodworkers are craftsman that specialize in using their Laurel magic to build not only fancy wooden furniture and items but also the very tree-houses that Austerians live within! It takes years to become an accomplished woodwork but, when they are masters of their craft, they can charge high prices for their services to royals who are all to willing to pay! Woodworkers often form construction teams with skilled Groundworkers, who are able to keep the earth around the tree roots both nutritious enough to feed the living tree homes and to solidify the foundations they stand upon.
Gardener
Requirements: None. (Laurel magic recommended!)
Gardeners use their green thumbs (hooves?) to cultivate plants in high demand for either consumption or healing remedies! While the best gardeners do, indeed, have Laurel magic, non-Laurel individuals can use their herbal know-how to raise plants in even the coldest months (besides, they can always hire other Laurels to green things up for them if need be!). Gardening, among the royals, is generally only a hobby but for many commoners it can be a way of life. Gardeners often work closely with Groundworkers, who keep the earth that their plants feed upon nutrient-rich!
Servant (Butlers/Maids)
Requirements: None.
Those who make a living as a servant are almost exclusively of the Commoner class and are hired by the rich royals who can't be bothered to maintain their extravagant houses. Butlers (male servants) and maids (female servants) can hold a wide variety of jobs, including but not limited to housekeeping, food preparation, baby sitter, or anything else a royal can think of! Butlers and maid are generally hired on contracts that last for various amounts of agreed-upon time but, should the butler or maid fail to perform the job for which they were hired, a royal can fire their servant at any time. While it may not always be the case, servants are expected to be treated with respect - after all, they are doing jobs that a royal can't be bothered to do!