Falconry (sage study)

Falconry is a sage study in the field of Animal Training, concerning the cultivated relationship between a trained bird of prey and its handler. Practised for both recreation and utility — be it in the hunt, on the battlefield or as a mark of station — the study reflects a disciplined and deeply personal union between human and bird. The animal itself, whether a falcon, hawk, eagle or owl, remains a creature of instinct and independence. Though shaped by training to respond to command, it is not domesticated in the true sense; the bird retains its natural temperament and autonomy, particularly in the act of striking prey. It is obedient, but not tame — responsive, yet wild.

Falconry also carries significant social weight. The possession and handling of a bird of prey is a cultural signal, traditionally reserved for individuals of rank, education or noble bearing. Mastery of the art is associated with refinement, patience and an elevated sense of honour. The abilities granted by this study reflect not only the practical capacities of these birds in service to their handler, but also the symbolic connection that enhances the character's standing in certain circles. The bond between falconer and bird is built over time and is not a casual or mechanical relationship — it is grounded in mutual recognition, habitual interaction and a shared instinct honed through repeated training and trust.

While many species of bird may, in theory, be trained within the framework of this study, present understanding of the discipline is not yet sufficient to fully distinguish the nuances between them. For purposes of gameplay, it is assumed that the character begins with a bird of prey — typically a falcon or hawk — whose characteristics are sufficiently alike to be treated as functionally interchangeable. Specific traits of eagles, owls or other less typical raptors may be addressed as the study evolves and more detailed rules are codified.

A character who enters play with an amateur level of knowledge in falconry is presumed to already possess a trained bird, with which a bond of no less than one year has been established. The bird is assumed to be accustomed to the handler's commands, routines and environment and may be relied upon to act within the limits of the character's knowledge and the bird's capability.

The following outlines what the character is able to accomplish within this study, representing the practical, tactical and social utility of falconry as both a technical skill and a meaningful companionship.

Sage Abilities

The sage abilities below are those acquired by a character through the study, according to status.

Amateur Status

• Bird Companionship: gains personal satisfaction and modest experience bonuses from the presence and interaction with a falcon. Benefits from steadiness of routine and emotional grounding while the bird is nearby and healthy. Sustains morale and focus in both rural and uncertain environments.

• Rouse to Hunt: awaken or excite the falcon and prepare it mentally and physically for the hunt. This may involve gentle movements or sounds to alert the bird and get it ready for the upcoming activity. Once the falcon is roused, the falconer releases the bird with the intention of it pursuing and catching prey.

• Train Falcon: allows the falconer to instruct a young or untrained bird through repetition and discipline. Establishes dependable behavioural responses to command. Prepares the falcon for advanced use in future abilities.

• Waken Regard: Gains the attention and interest of local figures of influence through the display of the falcon. Leverages the bird as a sign of status, culture and control. Secures access to dialogue or opportunity with persons otherwise beyond reach.

Authority Status

• Bird Strike: gives the falcon an advantage when ordered to attack a designated enemy. Increases the chance of a successful hit and permits the possibility of a wound if a critical blow is achieved using the bird’s talons. Enables the falcon to serve as a viable combatant in certain tactical situations.

• Find & Catch Birds: allows the character to identify nesting sites and breeding grounds of wild birds of prey. grants the skill to approach, capture and secure fledglings or juveniles suitable for training. supports the expansion of a personal aviary or breeding program.

• Rouse Admiration: captures the attention of nobles, commanders or rulers through a precise and elegant falconry display. impresses onlookers with the discipline and harmony between falconer and bird. gains social openings, favour or influence from those who value skill and bearing.

• Send Home: sends the falcon with a small written message to a known and previously trained destination. ensures swift and silent communication across distances without relying on human messengers. functions only between fixed points the bird has learned and grown familiar with.

Expert Status

• Bird Whispering: gains the natural ability to communicate with birds of all kinds through tone, gesture and instinct. allows the falconer to interpret basic intents without magical aid. enables simple conversation, warnings or requests to be understood by avian creatures.

• Breed Falcon: raises falcons and similar birds with care and precision to encourage the development of superior traits. selects for strength, temperament, eyesight or obedience depending on intent. improves the quality and potential of future generations through guided pairing and rearing.

• Counsel Bird Loyalty: gains the ability to approach and befriend unnatural or magical birds, such as the giant eagle, griffon or hippogriff. builds rapport through respect, body language and shared instinct rather than force. permits companionship and eventual service, though not automatic control.

Sage Status

• Falcon Familiar: empowers a falcon with supernatural gifts through ritual bonding and shared essence. grants the bird heightened awareness, resilience or other magical qualities beyond its natural form. establishes a deeper link between falcon and falconer, extending the bird’s role in both mystical and practical tasks.

See also,
Assassin Sage Abilities
Fighter Sage Abilities
Paladin Sage Abilities
Ranger Sage Abilities