Difference between revisions of "Falconry (sage study)"

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[[File:Falconry-study.jpg|right|560px|thumb]]
 
[[File:Falconry-study.jpg|right|560px|thumb]]
'''Falconry''' is a [[Sage Study|sage study]] in the [[Sage Field|field]] of [[Animal Training (sage field)|Animal Training]], which describes the gallant union between the character and bird, pursued for sport, for war — and for the companionship that results. In essence, the falcon (hawk, eagle or owl) exists in a state of semi-captivity, a wildness that is tempered by training.  They are, naturally, commanded; but as the bird retains its capacity to act alone, and with ferociousness in attacking its prey, it is not correct to think of the [[Animal|animal]] as "tame.
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'''Falconry''' is a [[Sage Study|sage study]] in the [[Sage Field|field]] of [[Animal Training (sage field)|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.
 
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Additionally, the falcon serves as a status symbol, for the mastery of these birds is viewed as a sign of quality lineage and personal worth. The sage abilities below reflect this, as well as the practical application of both lesser and greater birds as friends, servants and as a source of passion and love.
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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.
  
There are many types of bird that can be affected by the study; but until more research is accomplished, enabling a comprehensive deconstruction of the practice, it is presumed the character is in possession of a falcon or hawk and that these are, for game purposes, interchangeable; when possible, a distinctive clarification of how each type of bird will operate will be incorporated into these rules.
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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.
  
If a character enters into the campaign with an amateur [[Knowledge Points|knowledge]] in this study, it is presumed that a trained and familiar bird is already in the character's possession, and that the two have developed a companionship of at least one year.  
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A character who enters play with an amateur level of [[Knowledge Points|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 abilities below describe the possible actions within the study.
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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 ==
 
== Sage Abilities ==
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=== Amateur Status ===
 
=== Amateur Status ===
* '''[[Bird Companionship (sage ability)|Bird Companionship]]''': gain personal satisfaction and increased experienced bonuses from the presence and use of falcons.
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:* '''[[Bird Companionship (sage ability)|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 (sage ability)|Rouse to Hunt]]''': send the falcon to hunt for game [[Food|food]].  
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* '''[[Train Falcon (sage ability)|Train Falcon]]''': allows the falconer to educate a young bird so that it will perform as desired.
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:* '''[[Rouse to Hunt (sage ability)|Rouse to Hunt]]''': sends the falcon to seek game [[Food|food]], in addition to leading the character towards larger game to be hunted.
* '''[[Waken Regard (sage ability)|Waken Regard]]''': gain opportunities to meet and conspire with persons of local authority.
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<br>
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:* '''[[Train Falcon (sage ability)|Train Falcon]]''': allows the falconer to educate a young bird so that it will perform as desired.
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:* '''[[Waken Regard (sage ability)|Waken Regard]]''': gain opportunities to meet and conspire with persons of local authority.
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=== Authority Status ===
 
=== Authority Status ===

Revision as of 20:20, 14 April 2025

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: sends the falcon to seek game food, in addition to leading the character towards larger game to be hunted.
  • Train Falcon: allows the falconer to educate a young bird so that it will perform as desired.
  • Waken Regard: gain opportunities to meet and conspire with persons of local authority.


Authority Status

  • Bird Strike: gives the falcon bonuses when striking at an enemy; critical hits with the falcon's talons are capable of causing a wound.
  • Find & Catch Birds: locate the birthplaces of wild birds, for training and breeding.
  • Rouse Admiration: capture the attention and impress persons with great power and status, gaining opportunities.
  • Send Home: send the falcon with a message to a location and person the bird has been trained to recognize.


Expert Status

  • Bird Whispering: gain the natural ability to speak with birds of all kinds.
  • Breed Falcon: raise and manipulate falcons and other birds with skill in producing superior offspring.
  • Counsel Bird Loyalty: gain the friendship of unnatural birds, such as the giant eagle, griffon, hippogriff and so on.


Sage Status


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