Shadow Riders Guild
The Shadow Rider's Guild is a prestigious and noble knightly order renowned for its valiant and highly skilled members. What sets them apart from other knightly orders is their unique partnership with phase panthers, a bond that serves as a mark of their guild and station. The Shadow Rider knights are not only expert warriors but also seasoned panther riders, forging an unbreakable bond with their majestic companions.
United by their unwavering commitment to the protection of the realm, the Shadow Riders dedicate their lives to defending the innocent, upholding the law, and preserving the peace. With their panthers by their side, they possess a remarkable advantage in battles, swiftly navigating the land and striking fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Rigorous training and unwavering discipline shape the members of the Shadow Riders into exceptional fighters and skilled panther riders. The bond between knight and panther is a testament to trust, loyalty, and mutual respect, forming a partnership that exemplifies the harmony between rider and these majestic creatures.
As champions of the realm, the Shadow Riders are often called upon to face grave threats and challenges. Their bravery is well-known, and they stand as symbols of protection and justice for the people they serve. Through their panther companions, the Shadow Riders possess an exceptional advantage in reconnaissance, communication, stealth and mobility, making them an invaluable asset in times of war and crisis.
Upon receiving their assignment, the shadow rider and their panther travel to the designated Den. The journey is often an adventurous and challenging one as they traverse untamed landscapes, moving over mountain ranges, crossing expansive forests, and navigating treacherous waters. It is an opportunity for both the rider and their panther to bond further as they face various trials and experiences together. Though their path is spotted with safe houses against the sun, many riders have mapped the area for advantageous areas for Kindred riders and others with travel restrictions. Such locations are closely guarded secrets of the riders themselves. Once they reach the remote Den, they settle into their new post and establish a routine of vigilant watchfulness. The Den is a base of operations, providing shelter, sustenance, and essential resources for the panther and its rider during their tour of duty. The surroundings are wild and untamed, and the panther pack must always be prepared to face potential threats, such as rogue creatures, hostile invaders, or even dragons from opposing territories. During their tour of duty, the shadow rider and their companion diligently patrol the skies and surrounding regions, keeping a watchful eye for any signs of trouble or danger. They communicate with other Dens and the main guild headquarters to share information and coordinate their efforts in guarding against potential threats. While stationed at the remote Dens, the shadow rider also takes the time to deepen their knowledge of the territory and its inhabitants. They learn the behavior and migratory patterns of local creatures, helping them distinguish friend from foe. They may also befriend and form alliances with nearby settlements, earning the trust and gratitude of the people they protect. Throughout their tour of duty, the shadow rider and their companion continue to hone their combat skills, always staying prepared for any possible confrontations. The bond between the rider and panther grows stronger as they face challenges together, and the experience broadens their perspectives and understanding of the world around them. Once their tour of duty comes to an end, the shadow rider and their panther returns to the main guild headquarters, where they share their experiences and knowledge with other members of the Shadow Riders Guild. The tour of duty serves as a valuable opportunity for growth, fostering resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication to the Shadow Rider's mission of safeguarding the realms from threats. These tours typically last six months, though some shadow riders opt to do multiple tours.
On the rare occasion when a rider dies while their panther survives, it is an equally tragic event. The surviving panther will let out a roar of anguished loss, reflecting the deep bond they shared with their rider. In the aftermath of the rider's death, the panther will disappear, vanishing into another realm, carrying the body of their fallen companion with them. The fate of the panther after they disappear remains a matter of speculation and mystery within the guild. Some believe that the panther may die shortly after, unable to bear the loss of their rider. Others speculate that the panther may cross into an afterlife or another dimension where they are reunited with their rider, finding solace in their eternal bond. Regardless of the panther's fate, the loss of a rider and their panther leaves a lasting impact on the Shadow Riders and serves as a somber reminder of the risks and sacrifices involved in their noble quest to protect and serve.
Tour of Duty
A Panther packs tour of duty is a period during which a Shadow Rider and their panthers take on the responsibility of guarding one of the remote Dens located far from the main guild headquarters. These Dens are strategically positioned to protect and monitor the vast and distant territories, guarding against potential threats to the cities and settlements under the Shadow Rider's protection.Upon receiving their assignment, the shadow rider and their panther travel to the designated Den. The journey is often an adventurous and challenging one as they traverse untamed landscapes, moving over mountain ranges, crossing expansive forests, and navigating treacherous waters. It is an opportunity for both the rider and their panther to bond further as they face various trials and experiences together. Though their path is spotted with safe houses against the sun, many riders have mapped the area for advantageous areas for Kindred riders and others with travel restrictions. Such locations are closely guarded secrets of the riders themselves. Once they reach the remote Den, they settle into their new post and establish a routine of vigilant watchfulness. The Den is a base of operations, providing shelter, sustenance, and essential resources for the panther and its rider during their tour of duty. The surroundings are wild and untamed, and the panther pack must always be prepared to face potential threats, such as rogue creatures, hostile invaders, or even dragons from opposing territories. During their tour of duty, the shadow rider and their companion diligently patrol the skies and surrounding regions, keeping a watchful eye for any signs of trouble or danger. They communicate with other Dens and the main guild headquarters to share information and coordinate their efforts in guarding against potential threats. While stationed at the remote Dens, the shadow rider also takes the time to deepen their knowledge of the territory and its inhabitants. They learn the behavior and migratory patterns of local creatures, helping them distinguish friend from foe. They may also befriend and form alliances with nearby settlements, earning the trust and gratitude of the people they protect. Throughout their tour of duty, the shadow rider and their companion continue to hone their combat skills, always staying prepared for any possible confrontations. The bond between the rider and panther grows stronger as they face challenges together, and the experience broadens their perspectives and understanding of the world around them. Once their tour of duty comes to an end, the shadow rider and their panther returns to the main guild headquarters, where they share their experiences and knowledge with other members of the Shadow Riders Guild. The tour of duty serves as a valuable opportunity for growth, fostering resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication to the Shadow Rider's mission of safeguarding the realms from threats. These tours typically last six months, though some shadow riders opt to do multiple tours.
Shadow Rider Pride
A Shadow Rider Pride is a highly organized and skilled group of shadow riders who work together as a cohesive unit to accomplish various tasks and missions. Each squadron is led by a seasoned Shadow Rider, often a shade master or an experienced Shadow Rider of high rank. The squadron is usually composed of a diverse group of Shadow Riders with different skills and abilities, as well as their loyal panther companions. Members of a shadow rider pride undergo rigorous training to synchronize their actions with their panthers, ensuring seamless and effective teamwork. They practice complex formations, combat maneuvers, and communication techniques to enhance their coordination and combat capabilities. These skilled riders and their panthers forge deep bonds of trust, understanding, and respect, which are essential for the success of their missions. Shadow Rider Prides are tasked with various duties, such as defending their territory from external threats, patrolling borders, responding to emergencies, and assisting other guilds or settlements in times of need. They may also engage in reconnaissance missions, intelligence gathering, or support larger military operations. The pride often have distinct symbols, colors, or markings on their panther-riding equipment, uniforms, or banners to signify their unity and identity. They take pride in their squadron's history, accomplishments, and reputation, as well as the legacy of the panthers that came before them. In times of crisis or when facing formidable adversaries, multiple prides may join forces, creating a formidable force capable of handling even the most challenging situations. The cooperation and camaraderie among the squadrons strengthen their effectiveness and ensure they can tackle any threat as a united front.Death Among the Shadow Riders
The death of a panther is a deeply mourned event within the Shadow Riders, and it leaves a profound impact on both the rider and the guild as a whole. If a panther dies while its rider survives, it creates a loss that can never truly be filled. Many riders struggle to cope with the grief and often do not survive long after the death of their beloved companion.On the rare occasion when a rider dies while their panther survives, it is an equally tragic event. The surviving panther will let out a roar of anguished loss, reflecting the deep bond they shared with their rider. In the aftermath of the rider's death, the panther will disappear, vanishing into another realm, carrying the body of their fallen companion with them. The fate of the panther after they disappear remains a matter of speculation and mystery within the guild. Some believe that the panther may die shortly after, unable to bear the loss of their rider. Others speculate that the panther may cross into an afterlife or another dimension where they are reunited with their rider, finding solace in their eternal bond. Regardless of the panther's fate, the loss of a rider and their panther leaves a lasting impact on the Shadow Riders and serves as a somber reminder of the risks and sacrifices involved in their noble quest to protect and serve.
Structure
The guild follows a structured and hierarchical organization, with different ranks and roles defining the members' positions and responsibilities:
- Shadowcub: This rank requires time spent learning about the care and feeding of phase panthers. Biology, etc, as well as some combat training. This portion of the training is extremely rigorous and demands a strong body and a resolute determination.
- Shadow Squire: They are selected by Shadow riders to assist with care of equipment. Etc. Eventually they will be allowed to help with the Rider's phase panthers themselves, but usually only after the Panther has become familiar with the squire. It is very very rare that a squire is chosen by a Shade master or the Grandmane, but such an occurrence is a great honor. Combat training continues and the assistance with Shadowcub duties is still required.
- Shadow Rider: Once a Phase Panther has chosen a Rider, from the squires, the Squire is immediately promoted to the rank of Shadow rider. This rank does make up the bulk of the guild.
- Shade Master: The most skilled of the riders. These individuals are the elders of the Guild who have rather flexible duties in the guild. To be taught by a Shade Master is a rare honour.
- Grandmane: The Strongest of all the Shade masters. Nominated and voted on by the Shade masters themselves. This rank helps to oversee the health and wellness of the guild proper.
Who can Join
Membership in the Shadow Riders is open to individuals possessing expertise in martial combat, stealth, and investigation, coupled with a resolute commitment to justice. Panthers within this organization have been observed forming bonds with humans, a process not contingent on the spark of life. Interestingly, the absence of this spark proves advantageous, distinguishing it from the criteria observed in the Skysworn. Phase Panthers selectively bond with those touched by death, such as Vampires, though this selection process still hinges on the unique gifts wielded by potential riders. Guided by their instinctive prowess and attunement to otherworldly energies, Phase Panthers carefully choose riders based on their aptitude for establishing a robust and harmonious partnership.Culture
The culture of the Shadow Riders, the knightly order of phase panther riders, revolves around a deep respect for their panthers, a strong sense of duty, and a commitment to service and protection. They are a closely-knit community, bound by their shared bond with panthers and their common goal to safeguard the realm and its people.
- Respect for Phase Panthers: Phase Panthers are revered as majestic and powerful creatures, seen as stealthy and potent ancient beings with a connection to the mystical realms. Shadow Rider Guild members consider it a great honor to be chosen by a phase panther and treat their panther companions with utmost care and respect.
- Strength and Courage: The Shadow Riders Guild follow a strict code of strength and courage, upholding principles of bravery, justice, and personal betterment. They are dedicated to protecting the weak and upholding the values of the land. They are often regarded as paragons of stealth and strength for the realm.
- Unity and Camaraderie: The Shadow Riders Guild place great importance on camaraderie and teamwork. The close bond between a panther and its Rider is mirrored in the strong connections between members of the guild. They support each other in both times of triumph and adversity, fostering a sense of unity and family.
- Panther-Rider Partnership: The partnership between the panther and its Rider is at the heart of their culture. The Shadow Riders Guild believe that this bond goes beyond just a means of transportation and combat but extends to an emotional and spiritual connection that enriches both the phase panther and its Rider.
- Traditions and Ceremonies: The guild has various traditions and ceremonies to mark significant events in the lives of its members. From the first emergence of a panther from the birth den to the promotions of Squires to Riders, these rituals are important expressions of the guild's values and heritage.
- Courageous and Adventurous: Shadow Riders Guild members are known for their courage and adventurous spirit. They fearlessly face danger and protect the realm from threats. Their love for adventure, stealth and thrill-seeking is well-matched with their sleek panther companions.
- Learning and Wisdom: Education and continuous learning are highly valued within the Shadow Riders Guild. Members are encouraged to be knowledgeable in various fields, such as panther biology, combat techniques, history, and diplomacy. Shade Masters and retired Riders, serve as repositories of wisdom and experience, guiding and mentoring the younger generation.
- A Just and Fierce Presence: The Shadow Riders Guild strive to be a just and strong presence in the realm, not only through their panther-riding capabilities but also by actively aiding those in need. They often involve in the community are large to gain a better understanding of the people they serve.
Public Agenda
The public agenda of the Shadow Riders Guild is centered around the protection and welfare of the realm and its inhabitants. As phase panther riders, their primary goal is to defend the realm from external threats, be it marauding monsters, invading forces, or any other peril that endangers the safety and peace of the land.
They are often seen as the guardians of the people, and their presence brings reassurance and a sense of security to the communities they serve. The Shadow Riders Guild are renowned for their bravery and fearlessness in facing danger, and they are always at the forefront of information gathering and missions to ensure the realm's safety.
Additionally, the Shadow Riders Guild actively involve themselves in aiding those in need. They often undertake rescue missions and assist in disaster relief efforts. Their keen ability to get into places that others are unable to do so, enables them to be a great resource for the protection of the realm.
Beyond their martial duties, the Shadow Riders Guild also prioritize fostering safety and security before conflicts arise. They act as informants in conflicts, striving to resolve disputes before they occur by any means possible. Their role, on occasion can have them operating as ambassadors between different realms and factions helps build bridges and forge alliances for the greater good.
Through their public appearances and engagement with the realm's inhabitants, the Shadow Riders Guild aims to be a more covert branch of protection when compared to the Skysworn. They hold themselves to the highest standards of strength, integrity, and wisdom.
Assets
The Shadow Riders Guild possess a formidable array of assets that contribute to their strength and effectiveness as a knightly order. Foremost among these assets are their powerful panther companions, each one a magnificent creature with unique abilities and strengths. These panthers form a deep bond with their riders, creating a symbiotic relationship that enhances the skills and capabilities of both parties. The panthers' keen senses, trans-planar mobility, and combat prowess make them invaluable allies in defending the realm and carrying out missions.
Furthermore, the extensive knowledge and expertise of the Shadow Riders Guild members are essential assets. They undergo rigorous training in various disciplines, including combat, panther care, stealth, and strategic planning. The Skysworn maintain extensive libraries and archives, filled with ancient tomes, scrolls, and historical records, contributing to a vast repository of knowledge on phase panthers, creatures, and the realms they serve. The guild's vast network of connections and alliances is another significant asset. Through their diplomacy and impressive deeds, the Shadow Riders Guild have forged relationships with different kingdoms, factions, and communities. This network enables them to gather vital information, mobilize resources swiftly, and seek assistance when confronting challenges that require collective effort. Additionally, the Shadow Riders Guild's infrastructure and headquarters serve as critical assets in their operations. Their bases of operation are strategically located, providing easy access to different regions of the realm. These strongholds are equipped with training grounds, medical facilities, workshops for crafting equipment, and living quarters for members and their panthers. The public's trust and reliance are intangible yet essential assets. The Shadow Riders Guild's reputation as protectors and champions of the people grants them the cooperation and support of the populace. Citizens are more inclined to seek their aid and assistance, enabling the Shadow Riders Guild to swiftly respond to threats and emergencies. Lastly, the dedication, camaraderie, and unity within the Shadow Riders Guild itself are perhaps their most valuable asset. The strong bonds among its members create a cohesive and formidable force that stands unwavering in the face of adversity. Through their shared values, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment to their mission, the Shadow Riders form a united front against any challenge that threatens the realm and its inhabitants. This sense of unity and purpose is a driving force that propels them to face danger, ensuring that they remain an unyielding bastion of protection and hope for the world they serve.
The Shadow Riders Guild also maintains a close alliance with the Butlers Guild, ensuring that they members are able to conduct their roles appropriately. Due to the martial nature of the shadow riders guild, their assistance has been invaluable in assisting the wealthy dignitaries and individuals served by the Butler's Guild members. Additionally, the Shadow Riders Guild receives financial aid through donations and sponsorship from wealthy patrons who believe in their mission and wish to support their cause. These patrons may be individuals or influential organizations that see the value of having a strong and skilled shadow panther pride protecting the realms. During their tours of duty, the Shadow Riders sometimes come across valuable artifacts or rare resources. When deemed appropriate and necessary, the guild may sell these items to acquire additional funds to support their operations and provide for their members. The Shadow Riders Guild leadership and administrators also carefully manage the guild's resources, making wise investments and financial decisions to ensure the stability and sustainability of the organization. They prioritize the needs of the riders, ensuring that they are adequately compensated for their service and dedication. Overall, the Shadow Riders Guild maintains a careful balance between financial responsibility and their duty to protect the realms. Their financial support enables them to continue training new shadow riders, providing for the well-being of their panthers, and maintaining the necessary infrastructure to fulfill their mission of safeguarding the lands from threats and preserving peace and harmony.
Furthermore, the extensive knowledge and expertise of the Shadow Riders Guild members are essential assets. They undergo rigorous training in various disciplines, including combat, panther care, stealth, and strategic planning. The Skysworn maintain extensive libraries and archives, filled with ancient tomes, scrolls, and historical records, contributing to a vast repository of knowledge on phase panthers, creatures, and the realms they serve. The guild's vast network of connections and alliances is another significant asset. Through their diplomacy and impressive deeds, the Shadow Riders Guild have forged relationships with different kingdoms, factions, and communities. This network enables them to gather vital information, mobilize resources swiftly, and seek assistance when confronting challenges that require collective effort. Additionally, the Shadow Riders Guild's infrastructure and headquarters serve as critical assets in their operations. Their bases of operation are strategically located, providing easy access to different regions of the realm. These strongholds are equipped with training grounds, medical facilities, workshops for crafting equipment, and living quarters for members and their panthers. The public's trust and reliance are intangible yet essential assets. The Shadow Riders Guild's reputation as protectors and champions of the people grants them the cooperation and support of the populace. Citizens are more inclined to seek their aid and assistance, enabling the Shadow Riders Guild to swiftly respond to threats and emergencies. Lastly, the dedication, camaraderie, and unity within the Shadow Riders Guild itself are perhaps their most valuable asset. The strong bonds among its members create a cohesive and formidable force that stands unwavering in the face of adversity. Through their shared values, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment to their mission, the Shadow Riders form a united front against any challenge that threatens the realm and its inhabitants. This sense of unity and purpose is a driving force that propels them to face danger, ensuring that they remain an unyielding bastion of protection and hope for the world they serve.
Finances
The Shadow Riders Guild primarily sustains itself financially through a combination of different sources. The main source of income comes from the financial support provided by the cities and settlements they protect. These regions recognize the invaluable protection and security that the Shadow Riders Guild offers, and they contribute funds and resources to maintain the guild's operations.The Shadow Riders Guild also maintains a close alliance with the Butlers Guild, ensuring that they members are able to conduct their roles appropriately. Due to the martial nature of the shadow riders guild, their assistance has been invaluable in assisting the wealthy dignitaries and individuals served by the Butler's Guild members. Additionally, the Shadow Riders Guild receives financial aid through donations and sponsorship from wealthy patrons who believe in their mission and wish to support their cause. These patrons may be individuals or influential organizations that see the value of having a strong and skilled shadow panther pride protecting the realms. During their tours of duty, the Shadow Riders sometimes come across valuable artifacts or rare resources. When deemed appropriate and necessary, the guild may sell these items to acquire additional funds to support their operations and provide for their members. The Shadow Riders Guild leadership and administrators also carefully manage the guild's resources, making wise investments and financial decisions to ensure the stability and sustainability of the organization. They prioritize the needs of the riders, ensuring that they are adequately compensated for their service and dedication. Overall, the Shadow Riders Guild maintains a careful balance between financial responsibility and their duty to protect the realms. Their financial support enables them to continue training new shadow riders, providing for the well-being of their panthers, and maintaining the necessary infrastructure to fulfill their mission of safeguarding the lands from threats and preserving peace and harmony.
History
In the year 76AF, a remarkable Kindred by the name of ___ forever altered the course of history of New Angeles by discovering a pack of phase panthers out in the surrounding wilds. A powerful Gangrel, he was able to convince the pack to allow him the rare honour of being present during the birth of one of their litters. Spending many nights to gain their trust he was welcomed into their den. The knowledge of these rare creature was forever changed by the unprecedented feat that followed. A bond was forged between ____ and a newly born phase panther, shattering the belief that these creatures were simply mindless beasts. His unique bond with the panther opened up a new era for the understanding and cooperation between the world and these magnificent creatures. Through her teachings and strength, he inspired others and in 83AF, a small group of panthers riders formed the foundation of what would be recognized today as the Shadow Rider's Guild. This first pride is immortalized on the walls of the Guilds headquarters in a beautiful relief to this day.
As the new of the first Phase Panther Rider spread, more people began to seek out these mystical connections leading to the official formation of the guild. Though many, in the night preceding the foundation, would attempt to form bonds on their own improperly, the guild formed out of necessity for the safety of the populace and for education. With a strong focus on training, comradery and protection, the Shadow Riders Guild embraced the principles of strength, duty and discretion, aiming to foster a strong alliance with the other martial guilds, the cities of the Treaty of Rivershire and the people the land protects.
Throughout the years, the Shadow Riders Guild have grown in size and influence, expanding its ranks to include Quire, Shadow Riders, Shade Masters and the powerful Grandmane. The guild has played a pivotal role in maintaining the peace and wellbeing of the realm from external threats while nurturing the close bond between panthers and their riders. The Shadow Riders Guild is woven with legends and tales of bravery, wisdom, intrigue and the unbreakable bond between rider and their panthers. They continue to carry fourth their legacy of protecting the world they have in their charge.
In Shadow and Shade
Creature types that can Join: Vampire, Purified, Mortal
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