Ranks

Salsola's ranks are simplistic and strict in hierarchy, drawing primary inspiration from both Sicilian mafia and older primitive civilizations that often tended to base superstition. There are seven primary castes within the societal structure: The Mafiosi, the Sotto Capo, the Inner Ring, the Central Ring, the Outer Ring and the Servitori.

In addition to holding a rank, an individual Salsolan may also hold two lesser jobs - these are secondary indicators of usefulness, proving functionality and particular skill whereas the rank of an individual signifies their caste and status within the hierarchy.



Mafiosi (Leadership)

See the Leadership page for more information.

The Mafiosi rank consists of only two members: the Boss and their second in command. They are the leadership of Salsola, and the highest-ranked members of the pack. Their relationship often corresponds as a mentor/mentee type role.


The Boss (1)

Leader; King/Queen

Also commonly referred to as the King or Queen, the Boss is the true leader of Salsola, and the highest ranked member of the pack. In more recent epochs there has been heavy bias toward a matriarchal ruler, as modern Salsola favors women in leadership. The Boss' duty is to oversee the running of their people, to promote order and loyalty without mercy or weakness. The Boss' word is known as the Law within the kingdom, and can overrule any cultural tradition or stigma already in place. The Boss primarily deals with the Ambassador and the Crone regarding broad-view pack matters, delegating a lot of the remaining daily work to their second in command.


The Second (in Command) (1)

Subleader

The Boss' second is chosen by the Boss - for each new Boss to assume the mantle of leader, there will be a new second. It is important to note that the official title of the second is specific to that individual, and will change per each Salsolan to hold the rank (examples of past titles include: Protege, Cicerone, Lord Commander, Hierophant). They are highly regarded within the pack; Their voice carries the unquestionable authority of the Law, and is always obeyed. The second works closely with the Director and the Gamekeeper to manage the daily running of the kingdom. In the absence of the Boss, the second takes entire control of Salsola, and is called the Regent until a new Boss (and a new second) is chosen.



Sotto Capo (The Captains)

Underbosses

Often regarded as the high councilors or lords of Salsola, these four elite pack members make up the most trusted advisers of the Boss and their second in command. Each individual covers a specialised area of the running of the kingdom, fulfilling necessary duties for the ongoing prosperity and well-being of Salsola. They command attention and respect, and are at the pinnacle of the noble ranks. All four have the power to accept new members into the pack, and cast judgements on crimes.


The Crone (1)

Master of the Sanctus Faction

The spiritual leader of Salsola is feared by most for their mysterious connections to the ethereal beyond. The Crone rank was traditionally held by women alone, due to the belief that women have a greater connection to arcane power - However, due to circumstance and providence the rank has also been held at one time by a gender-neutral man. The Crone is expected to offer spiritual guidance to the leadership, giving advice that is driven by their deep and personal understanding of magics and religion. The Crone is considered to be the patron of Salsola’s witch coven. They are the head of the Sanctus Faction.


The Director (1)

Master of the Shield Faction

As Salsola’s need for secrecy grew, so did its use for espionage and military protection. To this end, a position of strategist, organizer, militante and adviser in matters of pack secrecy and security was created. The Director is expected to be knowledgeable on all the goings-on within Salsola, and regularly inform the Mafiosi as to such matters; They are also expected to be up-to-date on pack relations in both the mainland and peninsula including any relevant Outsider news. They are the one that decides what political information is important enough to be brought to the attentions of the leaders, and what can be handled or used at a lower level. They are the head of the Shield Faction.


The Gamekeeper (1)

Master of the Ranger Faction

One of the most important roles within Salsola’s structure, the Gamekeeper is not a rank selected lightly. This individual has the tiresome duty of overseeing all livestock and game within Salsola’s territory; Monitoring the levels of local prey to ensure the land is not being over-hunted, taking tally and care of the domesticated animals, maintaining records of the realm’s own breeding stud and the purchase of new livestock all fall within their jurisdiction. The position requires collaboration with the Ambassador, in the event that more livestock or prey needs to be traded for to boost the kingdom’s herds. The Gamekeeper is responsible for maintaining the highest quality of animals within Salsola’s stock, particularly encouraging the continued prosperity of Salsola’s horse breeding program. They are the head of the Ranger Faction.


The Ambassador (1)

Master of the Merchant Faction

The final member of the Sotto Capo is responsible for the pack's glowing reputation as wealthy traders, firm allies and an indomitable political force. Due to Salsola's strong connections with a variety of merchants abroad, the Ambassador is often required to make regular trips to the Portland docks and the Salsolan Outpost to retrieve important items for levy or trade. They work closely with the Mafiosi and the other advisers to ensure that the pack is well-stocked on necessary items, overseeing that the stores are kept stocked and prepared for the continual purchase and sale of goods. In addition to these tasks, the Ambassador is also the political and mediating face of Salsola, sent only to high-profile outsider events as a delegate for the leadership. Working closely with the Director, they monitor relationships with the other packs, and promote or defend them as necessary. They are the head of the Merchant Faction.



Faction Tiers (Specialised)

Elite Tier

The Luperci within these ranks have made an outstanding effort to utilise their unique, specialised skills to the benefit of the kingdom. Their value to Salsola has earned them a privileged position within the elite circle, serving directly under one of the Sotto Capo. These individuals will often be called upon by leadership for their selective mastered talents. The rest of the pack looks upon them with admiration and respect for their merciless drive toward utility and perfection. All Faction members, save Apprentices, are essentially equal in their hierarchical standing.



Sanctus Faction (The Occult)


Cleric (1)

Doctor

The Cleric serves Salsola as its master-doctor. Although the pack may have multiple healers or medics, the Cleric is responsible for monitoring the training and skill of said healers, as well as being expected to maintain the overall health of the pack. Their medical prowess is considered second to none. Although considered a practical role, the Cleric is heavily encouraged (by their faction head, the Crone) to incorporate spirituality into their practice, as Luperci primitivism still leads to many medical mysteries unanswerable by archaic science.


Alchemist (1)

Potions Master

With the uprise of Salsola’s cultural mysticism, the Alchemist serves a special role crucial to the spiritual order of the realm. Since its founding, the kingdom has cultivated a humble propagation of mushrooms on its singular Isle. The Island, once free land, is now specifically the realm of the Alchemist - they serve in the harvest of this unique fungi, and live solitary on the island where no lesser ranked civilian may roam. More so, they are specialised in the creation of potions, tinctures and panaceas that aid in hallucination, meditation, brevity - and even poison.


Seer (1)

Priest/Priestess

Salsola’s Seer functions as a spiritual advisor, prophet and companion for the Crone. They act as a close associate of the Sanctus Faction head, assisting in the preparation of almost all rituals (by gathering or trading for the necessary components and/or participating in the rituals themselves). The Seer is often privy to the Crone’s confidences, and holds an esteemed place within Salsola’s ranks. They are solely dedicated to the spiritual realm, and are seen as detached from the political maelstrom of the Salsolan court. Some pack members may fear them for their associations to the supernatural world, whilst others will seek them out for a vision or a boon.


Bard (1)

Entertainer

A musical scholar and entertainer, the Bard functions as Salsola’s jester and storyteller. Due to their natural enigmatic skill at entertaining or thrilling the populous, the Bard can often be found at the heart of important pack events. They are canny and quick-witted, and should know how to please any crowd, and talk (or sing!) their way out of any trouble! Due to this skillset, the Bard is often requested to accompany members of the Merchant faction in meetings with other pack delegates. Whilst seemingly acting the part, their political sharpness and ability to spin propaganda makes them one of the Mafiosi’s most useful tools.


Acolyte (1)

Master Craftsman

The power and providence of Salsola’s coven and religious sects are growing. Because of this, a number of holy and sacred sites have been designated as appropriate spaces for communal worship. It is the reverent duty of the Acolyte to attend any places of spiritual power, ensuring that they are kept unsullied by daily interference and use. They are also required to assist in the creation of new shrines or altars at the behest of the Crone. Their creative ability to sculpt, carve, or otherwise build also lends itself to the creation of smaller religious idols, jewelry and trinkets, infused with stones, runes or artifacts significant to the theology of the relic. Adhering to no singular religion themselves, the Acolyte treats all worshippers equally regardless of their varied faiths, and is expected to have detailed understanding of a number of the local religions. They have a special combination of piety and skilled craftsmanship that is tailored to their role.


Sanctus Apprentice (1)

Assistant

The Sanctus Apprentice (commonly referred to simply as ‘Apprentice’, in accords with the apprentices of the other factions) is a temporary role filled by a pack-member seeking to assist, and possibly be promoted to, one of the more respected Sanctus ranks. They are expected to be available to the Crone, Cleric, Alchemist, Seer, Bard and Acolyte, as both an advisor and an assistant. They should have a general knowledge of two or more of the other Sanctus ranks, and may be required to fill in for a Sanctus Faction member in the event of their absence.



Shield Faction (Defense)


Emissary (1)

Spy

The eyes and ears of the eyes and ears, the Emissary is a role that requires extensive loyalty and trust. If something is happening, the Emissary knows about it. They are expected to have the most current intel on Salsola’s neighbors, friends or foes, and be a reliable and continual source of information. They are often away from home, searching the mainland or the peninsula in their hunt for intel - Truly, they are a master spy, and deception must come easily and familiarly to them.


Paladin (1)

Elite Fighter

A “jack of all trades” when it comes to combat, the Paladin is expected to be well versed in a notable variety of fighting styles and weapons. They are responsible for the training and organization of all other militant-style ranks, and should be available to any Family member seeking to better their weaponry or combat skills. The Paladin also functions as ‘muscle’ for the Sotto Capo, and can be requested to accompany any pack convoys or political envoys for protection.


Enforcer (1)

Assassin

When a faceless show of condemnation is needed, but finesse required, the Enforcer is sent. This member is extremely talented in the art of assassination, and even more talented at getting away with it. Though the Enforcer most commonly works outside of the pack, there are sometimes treasonous whispers of covert internal-cullings as well. If this is true, this individual - sworn to the highest secrecy upon attaining their rank - will never tell. The Enforcer is highly skilled with a small range of stealth weapons, often preferring items that can be easily concealed and used for quick, ruthless kills.


Striker (1)

Elite Scout

Without question, the Striker is the most talented long-distance fighter or sniper in the pack. They should be a master in at least one long-range weapon, such as a bow or slingshot, but often work with many. Something of a “first response”, a Striker is sent when close combat can be avoided and often serves double-time as the elite scout. In wartime they are required for shooting down enemy birds and canvassing for rival encampments. The Striker should have an excellent knowledge of both the pack terrain and the surrounding area, and be familiar with places of high ground that suit their ranged skills.


Guardian (1)

Bodyguard

Since its inception, Salsola has survived a number of wars, and bears residual foes in almost every corner of Nova Scotia. It is a dangerous time to be Mafiosi; As such, the Guardian rank was created. A skilled lone fighter extremely dedicated to the protection of the leadership, the Guardian may be a master in any kind of combat, so long as it can be utilised to the surveillance and escort of an individual. Due to the nigh-daily placement of their role, the Guardian often develops a close working relationship with the Boss and their second, and can be privy to confidential secrets of the upper echelons. They are chosen for their loyalty, prowess and dedication above all else.


Shield Apprentice (1)

Assistant

The Shield Apprentice (commonly referred to simply as ‘Apprentice’, in accords with the apprentices of the other factions) is a temporary role filled by a pack-member seeking to assist, and possibly be promoted to, one of the more respected Shield ranks. They are expected to be available to the Emissary, Paladin, Enforcer, Striker and Guardian, as both an advisor and an assistant. They should have a general knowledge of two or more of the other Shield ranks, and may be required to fill in for a Shield Faction member in the event of their absence.



Ranger Faction (Game & Livestock)


Jagermeister (1)

Master Hunter

Entirely focused on Salsola’s wild prey, the Jagermeister is the pack’s most talented hunter. They by and large function as a solo unit, often spending extensive time observing and taking careful note of the local populations before a hunt. For larger animals, and group hunting, the Jagermeister will take responsibility for the organization and success (or failure) of such an event. This is especially important proceeding The Last Supper.


Admiral (1)

Naval Specialist

Since expanding to encompass Amherst, Salsola has inherited an old shipping dock situated on the loch. This calls for a tidemaster, someone experienced with everything the wide bodies of water have to offer. The Admiral has extensive knowledge of the sea and/or great inland lakes; From ships, to fish, and even to the heavenly constellations by which they navigate. The stars and the water are the heart of this individual, and their expertise is widely sought after.


Shepherd (1)

Livestock Handler

Salsola’s Shepherd is responsible for the care of the non-equine domestic animals within the pack. They are expected to have a wide range of experience with livestock, given that any number of oddities might make their way into Salsola. They work closely with the Equinest to ensure that the herds are frequently rotated through grazing areas, and will often be partial to the Merchant Faction’s trading efforts of livestock. They are most at home in the rolling green fields of Tantramar with their flock.


Equinest (1)

Horsemaster

This role is one of the most esteemed in Salsola. The Equinest is responsible for the quality of Salsola’s horses, and oversees all aspects of their care. They make crucial decisions regarding breeding and selective characteristics in stud stock, ensuring the next generation of Salsolan steeds will be superior to their predecessors. They work closely with the Vaqueros, and also conduct dealings through the Merchant faction for the trading of valuable horses to influence the bloodlines of Salsola’s herds.


Beleaguer (1)

Inventor

A true eccentric genius is required for this role, as above all else it calls for intelligence and creativity. The Beleaguer is responsible for the creation, maintenance and installation of Salsola’s border defenses - most notably, their traps. These traps range from lighthearted and clever to downright gruesome, and it is the Beleaguer who must constantly improve upon them to ensure the lasting safety of Salsola’s secrets. The unfortunate Ranger Apprentice is often called upon to test this inventor’s newest mechanical marvels.


Ranger Apprentice (1)

Assistant

The Ranger Apprentice (commonly referred to simply as ‘Apprentice’, in accords with the apprentices of the other factions) is a temporary role filled by a pack-member seeking to assist, and possibly be promoted to, one of the more respected Ranger ranks. They are expected to be available to the Jagermeister, Admiral, Shepherd, Equinest and Beleaguer, as both an advisor and an assistant. They should have a general knowledge of two or more of the other Ranger ranks, and may be required to fill in for a Ranger Faction member in the event of their absence.



Merchant Faction (Trade)


Bursar (1)

Master Merchant

Great wealth can only come from hard work; Indeed, Salsola’s riches are often largely in due to the Bursar, whose tireless merchantry efforts are renown throughout the realm. A smooth talker with the heart of a loan shark, this canny trader can smell the best deal from a mile away. Often working in conjunction with the Salsolan Outpost, the Bursar oversees all large-scale trade on behalf of Salsola, keeping record of sales and working closely with other Faction members to ensure they have all the items and materials they require for their respective tasks.


Partisan (1)

Diplomat

Fully at home when the spotlight is on them, nobody is more charming in company than the Partisan. Their easy graces and amicable attitude make them hard to dislike, and cover the careful manipulation that hides beneath their words. The chosen delegate between Salsola and all other packs, the Partisan is responsible for spinning the story that the Mafiosi want Outsiders to believe. In political conversations and debates they have no match, save perhaps for the head of their Faction, with whom they work closely to present Salsola’s best political face.


Quartermaster (1)

Provision Control

The Quartermaster is responsible for the mammoth task of maintaining Salsola’s goods, a position which does not come lightly. They are expected to know how to read and write and keep extensive and meticulous notes when it comes to Salsola’s materials, stocks and products in order to best manage them. The storage shed by the Ruins is the Quartermaster’s domain, and organisation is their key attribute. They work closely with other members of their Faction to facilitate trades and gifts. Looking for something specific? See the Quartermaster!


Proctor (1)

Lawman

Every growing civilisation needs the law, and the law needs lawmen to keep true to the path of civility. The Proctor is a judiciary with a keen eye for wrongdoings and a nose for trouble. Their (supposedly) unbiased outlook allows them the brevity to keep a stern eye on any individual, even those of their own rank. Small disputes and claims are often settled by the Proctor, who is adept at handing out suitable penitence to fit any crime. Their level-headedness and clear insight are an attribute of an individual with impeccable self control, which can be hard to find among the corrupting luxuries and sins of Salsola. With the scales of justice in one hand, and a lash in the other, this is one individual you don’t want to cross.


Treasurer (1)

Banker

An esteemed but risky position. The Treasurer is an individual of impeccable fidelity, and unswayable conscience. They are given the tremendous task of overseeing and hosting the pooled riches of Salsola. These items are considered too valuable to be left in Storage, and consist of jewelry, coins, gems and other rare luxuries. The Treasurer may also be placed in charge of the Mafiosi’s personal wealths, if they are found trustworthy enough. One seeking to create an inheritance for their descendants or settle a private debt should accede to the wisdom of the Treasurer.


Merchant Apprentice (1)

Assistant

The Merchant Apprentice (commonly referred to simply as ‘Apprentice’, in accords with the apprentices of the other factions) is a temporary role filled by a pack-member seeking to assist, and possibly be promoted to, one of the more respected Merchant ranks. They are expected to be available to the Bursar, Partisan, Quartermaster, Proctor and Treasurer, as both an advisor and an assistant. They should have a general knowledge of two or more of the other Merchant ranks, and may be required to fill in for a Merchant Faction member in the event of their absence.



Inner Ring (High Ranks)

Individuals within these ranks are considered to be among some of the most loyal and respected within Salsola. They are the noble class of Salsola, esteemed long-time members who have proved themselves as useful and valuable to the leadership.


Arbiter (∞)

Elite Upper Class

The Arbiters are Salsola's show of power and value. Their function is to intimidate outside of Salsola, presenting the pack as a strong, wealthy and united kingdom. They generally possess sharp cunning, and have a range of developed talents. Along with their presence as members of Salsola’s elite, Arbiters often spread extensive propaganda regarding the kingdom to whatever end the upper echelons wish. Arbiters ensure the internal conscience and peace of Salsola, employed by the Leadership to mete out advice where needed and council their fellow pack-mates as appropriate.


Henchman (∞)

Elite Fighter Class

Trained for quick immobilization skills and immediately nullifying threats, Henchmen are the brute protection and intimidation force of Salsola. Well known for their skill in the sly and dangerous arts most valued in Salsola, these members are very much prized within the pack. They obey only the Mafiosi and Sotto Capo ranks and are hand-picked for their impressive obedience and loyalty. Henchmen are required to act in the interest of Salsola first and foremost and are well-versed in Salsola's codes and traditions.


Warden (∞)

Noble Class

As their name suggests, Wardens are the protective guardians of Salsola, keeping an eye on anything which might disturb the pack's peace. They are often charged with the protection and guidance of lesser members, or hopeful Associates, as they are trusted to instruct newcomers properly in the ways of the Thistle Kingdom. Wardens are expected to have a clear understanding of the political and cultural details of the pack. Only the most attentive, cunning, devoted and ambitious Tradesmen are promoted to Wardenship, and it is a signal of true elevation and purpose.



Central Ring (Medium Ranks)

All members within the Central Ring are the heart of the hierarchy, consisting of trusted members and youths. This is "The Family" itself, the deeply secretive center and beating heart of Salsola. Members ranked Family and above may sponsor a newcomer for Salsola's joining and trial process. See Sponsor for more. Only individuals ranked Family and above are able to hold the debt of an Indentured Servant.


Tradesman (∞)

Trading Class

Holding the trust and interest of the higher ranks, Tradesmen are given more freedom than those ranked below them, allowing them to barter and exchange goods beyond the territory without suspicion. With the blessing of the Inner Ring, Tradesmen are allowed to go to haggle and sell on the behalf of the pack. They are also encouraged to recruit potential new members found on their travels beyond the Thistle Kingdom, and indoctrinate them into the ways of the Family.


Confidant (∞)

Trusted Class

A Confidant is prized in Salsola. Confidants are exceptionally hard working, depended upon by many higher-ranked members and next in line for the Tradesman ranks. They strive to display loyalty to the higher ranks and show great ambition to claim a place in the Inner Ring. Confidants should seek to train with the Tradesmen ranks and get to know the leadership; a strong relationship with these members is crucial for further promotions.


Family (∞)

Standard Rank

This is the standard rank; Family members are dedicated and intelligent, adhering to the Salsolan culture and gloating in the surety of the Associates’ envy. Though Family members should display strong loyalty to the higher ranks, they may be prone to bickering amongst themselves for personal hierarchy. Members of the Family are encouraged to begin specialising their skills - those who seek to be promoted will need to prove their additional value! Mateship and Co-ranks are encouraged.


Bambino (∞)

Children

This is the standard child rank. One remains a Bambino until they reach shifting age. At that time, these hopeful youths undergo the Cueponi ceremony to try and gain the respect of the adulthood ranks. Generally, those under seven months are accepted to this rank.



Outer Ring (Low Ranks)

Life is more difficult for those who have not been accepted into the Family rank. Those in the Outer Ring are generally looked down on by other pack members, and may be viewed with suspicion and distrust. They are often kept in the dark regarding interpersonal and pack matters, and will likely be kept in this rank until they have proven themselves worthy of additional respect.


Associate (∞)

New Recruits

See the Associates page for more information.

Those of Salsola's entry rank are treated with general disdain and condescension, though certainly not to the extent of those in servitude. As they are generally still considered Outsiders in the early weeks of their initiation, other Salsolans may view them with distrust. Associates should have an ambitious desire for promotion, and should aim to please those of higher rank and prove themselves as true Salsolans. Mateship to a higher-ranking member is an immediate induction into The Family rank.


Serf (∞)

Omega

This Omega rank consists of the lowest canines still retaining their membership, often used as a punching bag or entertainment by other Salsola members. Individuals in this rank are either there by misfortune or carelessness; Lawbreakers or indolents may find themselves stagnating without effort as a Serf, yet freed servants will rise to this status only after great hardship and toil. This rank is marginally better than those among the Servitori, as they have no measurable debt to the kingdom. On the fringe of polite society, they receive only the impoverished scraps of Salsola’s wealth.



Servitori

These sad individuals have been taken into servitude by the whims of Salsola. They are required to serve until they have paid the entirety of their “debt” to the pack - this debt can take any number of form. Common examples include: Outsiders who are saved by a Salsolan from death or greater persecution, such as immense physical harm, and are then required to serve an amount of time of equal length to the value of their life or prevented suffering; Outsiders who are purchased from slavery, and are then required to serve an amount of time equal to the value of their purchase price; Individuals who commit a grievous crime (i.e. trespassing, kidnapping, rape, murder), and are then required to serve an amount of time equal to the severity of their crime.

The amount of time in which a servant must obey and toil is measured in approximation to their debt. This is quite clearly a biased and corrupt system, and patrons may often largely overstate the debt that is owed them so as to keep an individual in the bonds of servitude for longer. However, it is very unusual that an individual should serve for their whole life. Fair or merciful patrons may even absolve a servant of their debt entirely for good behaviour, an act of valor or docile willingness, freeing them from the remainder of their sentence. Those who complete the payment of their debt, or are elsewise absolved of it, are immediately promoted to the Serf rank, where they can begin to rise through the ranks like any other free Salsolan.


Mendicant (∞)

Communal Servant

An individual taken into servitude for the general kingdom. As they serve no singular patron, they should be supplicant to all ranked members of Salsola. Their debt is considered owed to the pack as a whole; The amount of time they are required to serve to pay their debt is set by any member of the Inner Ring or above, in accordance to and judging by the reason for their servitude.


Indentured Servant (∞)

Private Servant

An Indentured Servant serves only one patron, to whom their debt is owed. Their patron may for example have bought them, saved their life, or been the victim of their crime; They are the one who determines the length of the servitude as payment of the debt. When the Indentured Servant has served enough time to absolve them of their debt, they become a free member of Salsola.