Envoy

An Envoy serves the interests of Aodh abroad, acting as ambassadors to other herds.

**Envoys are a limited rank, and require a monthly activity check.**

## Overview

Envoys are the official emissaries of Aodh to other herds, chosen to represent the King’s interests. They seek to integrate with their chosen herd, getting close to their leaders. Although not spies per se, Envoys are expected to keep an eye out for interesting details, and report anything they discover posthaste to Aodh.  Their main duties are negotiating trade deals and maintaining polite relations with the hosts.

Envoys will often spend months, sometimes even years at a time away from Aodh, and communicate home mostly by letter (or blessings, if possible). They are expected to keep regular contact, although the limitations of Hireath’s communication networks make exchange of information slow. Envoys will generally be assigned to an Adviser whose duty it is to receive and respond to their letters, keeping them up to date in the matters of their home herd, and any requests that may have been brought up by the King.

Envoys have to use their best judgement in day-to-day interactions with their host herd. This means they’re largely alone in navigating the issues that may arise during their stay. When waiting for an answer from the King is not an option, they have the authority to represent Aodh - even in international matters such as wars or treaties. While their actions are almost always later validated by the King, they are held responsible for any mistakes they make while on the job.

Due to vast differences in lifestyle and luxury between Aodhian nobility and nearly every other herd, Envoys commonly experience culture shock on their first visits to their host. Envoys are expected to try to fit in and integrate with the hosts - without ever forgetting that they are Aodhian, and serve only the King.

## Becoming an Envoy

Unlike most other herds, Aodh does not value experience and age in their diplomats, but instead breeding and loyalty. Envoys are usually hoof-picked by the King from loyal noble families, most often Great Houses, but may also be appointed based on the recommendation of an Adviser or Royal Family member. Only the King can appoint Envoys to their task.

The position is unsuitable for a Head of the House due to the copious amount of time spent away from Aodh. Envoy is a position usually sought by slightly younger, enterprising nobles with few or no other responsibilities; Envoy is considered by many to be a good pathway to becoming an Adviser later in life.

**Requirements**

* Must be a legitimate member of a noble House; preferably a Great House
* Preferably a legal adult (18 or older); younger possible with recommendation
* No major criminal history
* Literate

### **Envoy Training**

Envoys will ideally receive some training before being sent out for the first time, although sometimes circumstances make this impossible. An Envoy should be mentally prepared to be sent out at the first opportunity with little to no additional training - as such, one applying to the position should preferably already know the basics of their future host herd.

When possible, an Envoy will be tutored by a previous Envoy to the same faction, who will teach them what to expect and how to deal with issues that may arise with the host. Additionally, an Adviser will provide coaching on the royal interests in the host country, and make sure the Envoy is as up to speed with current politics at home as possible.

## Creating an Envoy

When you create a new Envoy character, you can decide whether to join an existing House, or make your own. To make an Envoy with a Great House, you must join an already existing family (as of April 1st 2021). All existing Houses are player owned creations, and to join one or use them in your backstory, you must consult with the owner of said House.

The other option is to create your own House. This must be a Lesser House, and your House info will be judged as a part of your application - so make sure it’s lore friendly!

Aodhian Nobility is recommended reading for people creating a noble character.

### **Current and Previous Envoys**

* War Forged: Eliina; previously Paris & Amias (1700-1701); Geremia (1699-1700)
* Breim (Umare): Open; previously Balthamel (1699-1701)
* Serora: Iulia; previously Iscah (1699-1700)
* Talori: Currently no Envoys being chosen; previously Tiffany (1700-1701)
* Rogues: Tiffany

## Rank Levels

* **At 25 AP |** An Envoy must know how to rub foreign diplomats the right way… or at least know a thing or two about their culture. You may gain your **Tier 1 Talent** early (for your first talent only).
* **At 50 AP |** As a representative of Aodh, it’s important to look your best. Receive either a **Circlet or Collar**, as well as a **Cloak** for free.
* **At 75 AP |** Non-Aodhians may be a bit… simple, but you should still keep your guard up when it comes to politics. Receive **+15 SP** to cunning or wisdom.
* **At 100 AP |** You need a way to send your reports both quickly and efficiently. If your familiar spot is free, receive a **Aodhian** **Mythical Familiar** from the Eithne region.