Fardrinden

Fardrinden, meaning "far riders" in the Elk tongue, are satellite groups of younger riders from each herd that serve a number of purposes for their parent herd.

First and foremost, fardrinden act as an early warning system, spotting threats or hazards well before they can affect the main herd, or exploring the terrain in front of and around the main herd and signaling the main herd when they find meat, water, or good grazing spots.

The fardrinden also act as skirmishers when the herd commences hostilities, nipping at the flanks of an enemy and giving the primary riders time to equip heavier armor and weapons for their devastating charges.

The fardrinden need not worry about riding out of sight of their herd thanks to the system of communication that the Elk use to stay in contact over long distances. The designated leader of the fardrinden carries a bugle made from the curling horns of the sheep that can be found in the foothills surrounding Elk lands.

These bugles are loud, piercing, and require a degree of fortitude to use properly. When given the appropriate wind, an Elk bugle can be heard for miles, with each herd and fardrinden using different calls and patterns to send messages.