[Location] The Courtyard of Jackals

[Colombina]

The Courtyard of Jackals In times of relative peace, all those seeking to join the combined soldiers and guards of Eyktol must petition the Courtyard of Jackals. The massive courtyard of both sand and paving serves as a training ground while the barracks and classrooms are in the surrounding structure. Becoming a Jackal is one of the few ways a person with no noble heritage can climb the ranks, growing prestigious enough to even have the Pressorah's ear. It is an honored position and a fully tutored Jackal is an intimidating warrior. Ranks The progression of rank goes from Fox to Jackal to Hawk. Foxes transition to Jackals after a year of service or an act that shows their merit. Hawks can be appointed only by the Pressor or Pressorah, who are usually advised by their current Hawks. Within the Jackal and Hawk level there are further ranks. Hawks move from 3rd (lowest) to 1st. Whereas Jackals have more colorful distinctions. Dira Jackals are the highest, named for the goddess's companions, followed by Striped Jackals, Sagal, then Red Jackals. Weapons and armor grow more elaborate as one progresses in rank. Daily Life and Training During training, Foxes and Jackals live in the barracks with little more than a bed and a chest to their name. Sexes are divided, but men vastly outnumber women. Training occupies them from sunrise to sunset, and three times a week they are sent on additional duties. Students are organized into classes called Skulks, a term that also applies to any grouping of guards. The classes of Skulks are distinguished by precious stones, so one may be a member of the Jade Skulk, the Obsidian Skulk, etcetera. Jackals learn how to handle glaives, khopesh and a third weapon of their choosing. Dual wielding is standard with shorter weapons. Chariots are preferred over horses in battle, but a Jackal will have a fair knowledge of how to control both. Additionally, Jackals are taught tactics and study important battles from various cultures. Learning the anatomy and weaknesses of various races is also a part of a Jackal's training. Surprisingly, female Jackals are trained in dance to make them more formidable and elusive opponents. Male soldiers do not receive the same luxury, but may choose to dabble in games of strategy as part of their training. The Courtyard strives to produce a sophisticated brand of soldier who disciplines himself. A soldier may never return to the barracks drunk or fraternize with female Jackals. Doing so would result in the public shaming and expulsion of all involved parties. Appearance Each rank wears helmets with long sides that depict their patron animal with the snout or beak protruding from the forehead. A face guard can be pulled down to complete the intimidating effect, but is commonly left open for better visibility. A band of leather webbing, sometimes woven with bronze crosses the shoulders. Metal bracers are worn on the arms and leather greaves on the legs. Materials vary as to rank, ranging from leather, bronze and decorative gold over iron.