Imperial Harriers

  Falconguard 

Birds are a traditional symbol of the Southmaren Empire, and the "Imperial Harriers" are the most highly ranked servants in the Emperor's court. One attends him at all times as bodyguard and loyal adviser. Starting at breakfast, a Harrier advises the Emperor of weather, morning news, and messages brought by carrier birds with silver-belled feet. Naturally, these airborne messages are written in code, and can only be deciphered by a Harrier. The Harriers also have an elaborate language of bird whistles used for secret communication, and some say they can even speak with spy birds to foresee danger to the Emperor.

Since their youngest age, the Imperial Harriers are instructed in training and bonding with their falcons. The bond forged between them is mystical and beyond common understanding, but two-edged, for the loss of his faithful companion would be a heartrending experience like no other.

The livery of an Imperial Harrier is soot gray and black, with a tall, soft hat. They bear the mark of the Emperor, gold and black falcons, on a chain of office, a hunting horn, and hunting knife. Most also carry a brace of pistols--the few weapons allowed in the presences of his Imperial Majesty. Lastly, the Emperor has sponsored many of his Imperial Harriers to become trained in "Black Wizardry".

Falconguard (updated 2004/01/14)

The Falconguard are a small, elite order of the Imperial Harriers trained to ride the winds on the backs of the Ippogrifo, or Hippogriff. Long ago, the Southmarens of Harnendor made pacts with the ancient avian gods, and the Hippogriff of the Riphaean mountains were bound to serve certain bloodlines. To this day, the newly anointed members of the Falconguard take oaths to serve not only the Emperor but also the "Lords of Air".

The Falconguard act as scouts, battle commanders, and the Emperor's eyes over all the land. Known to travel a hundred miles a day, they also serve as speeded couriers carrying messages that cannot be entrusted to birds alone. Often trained in "Black Wizardry", they also employ a variety of spells for communication, travel, and directing troops from the air.