Leadership (sage field)

Leadership is a sage field available to fighters and paladins, a practical and necessary skill, centred on maintaining order and ensuring the prosperity of the group or community. Leaders are expected to bear the responsibility for decisions that affect the well-being of their people, from military actions and political negotiations to economic management and moral guidance. In a world without centralized bureaucracies or widespread literacy, leadership often falls to individuals who can provide clear direction and stability in times of uncertainty.

Military leadership is among the most critical roles. Armies in this period rely on leaders to provide not only strategic guidance but also the charisma and presence to inspire their troops. Success in battle often depends on the loyalty and cohesion of forces, which leaders cultivate through personal relationships, promises of reward and demonstrations of courage on the field. Leaders also ensure the provision of food, weapons and shelter for their troops, often organizing extensive supply chains and negotiating with allies or vassals to secure the resources needed for prolonged campaigns. Without effective leadership, even the most well-equipped armies risk mutiny or collapse.

In addition to these practical aspects, leadership carries a significant moral component. Leaders are often seen as stewards appointed by divine will and their legitimacy is tied to their perceived ability to protect and care for their people. During times of crisis, such as famine or plague, leaders are expected to provide guidance and relief. Their actions in such moments secure the loyalty of their subjects or lead to their downfall. The moral expectations of leadership extend to personal conduct as well, as leaders who fail to embody virtues such as courage, justice or piety risk losing the respect of their followers.

Studies

The field includes the following sage studies:

• Heroism: a philosophy rooted in the pursuit of reverence and glory, achieved through acts of great courage, sacrifice and selflessness, while fulfilling a social and moral ideal. Heroes take on extraordinary risks, often placing their lives in peril to protect their people or achieve monumental goals that serve the greater good. These deeds inspire loyalty and respect, as they embody the virtues of bravery, honour and determination. It serves as a guiding principle for leaders and warriors alike, tying personal ambition to the broader values of their community or kingdom.

• Judgment: enables the character to have good sense in selecting those who serve under their authority, ensuring that hirelings and followers are assigned duties that suit their skills and reliability. This ability accentuates discernment and insight, allowing the character to build trust and loyalty while avoiding unnecessary risks or failures due to poor delegation. By evaluating the strengths, weaknesses and motivations of those they command, the character ensures that their team functions efficiently and cohesively.

• Logistics: provides the character with practical expertise in the management and organization of supplies, ensuring the sustainability of long-term campaigns or the effective provisioning of smaller parties. This includes understanding the storage, transport and distribution of food, equipment and other necessities, as well as anticipating shortages or inefficiencies. The ability allows the character to plan strategically, minimize waste and maintain the morale and effectiveness of those under their care.

• Motivation: enables the character to inspire and elevate the morale of hirelings and followers, rallying them to face danger in combat and fostering loyalty toward the leader's actions and decisions. This ability extends beyond immediate associates, allowing the character to influence larger groups of willing individuals, whether within a settlement, across a province or even throughout an entire kingdom. Through speeches, actions or personal presence, the character can unify disparate groups under a common purpose, inspiring resolve and dedication in the face of adversity.

See also,
Fighter Sage Abilities
Paladin Sage Abilities