Scene 7: A New Rank

GM Information

When the recruits return to Virkin, they’re given a few days of relative rest and remain under medical supervision. “Rest” does not mean “idleness,” however. For one week, they’re assigned to duties such as kitchen work, camp labor, guard duty, and so on. The physical strain is reduced at first, but they stay active.
During this time, Beron will speak with each recruit privately. He asks about their experiences, impressions, and any notable behavior—positive or negative. Hold this conversation with each player in a separate room or, in online play, in a private channel. Take notes and choose one player who might be capable of leading a small squad.
A squad normally consists of three warriors. Since clear leaders rarely emerge during the recruit phase, squads may be larger. Once everyone has recovered from the hardships of the past days, Beron calls the unit to assemble. He has selected at least three recruits whom he believes could take on a leadership role.

Read aloud After you’ve lined up in front of your barracks, Beron thunders: “Stand at attention! Just because you’re being spared for the moment doesn’t mean you can slack off in your discipline!”
Everyone immediately straightens even more. Beron nods, looking from one to the next, then calls out just as loudly: “Skeldar Watch-Eye! Step forward!” As Skeldar steps out, he already calls the next name: “(player character’s name)! Step forward!” And finally: “Lynka Winterclaw! Step forward!”
Skeldar and Lynka glance at Beron, then at (player character’s name). Their expressions are puzzled—why were they chosen? Beron steps in front of the three and says: “Every unit needs leaders. Based on what I’ve heard so far, you seem the most suitable candidates. Turn to face your comrades!”
Once they’ve turned, Beron asks each of them loudly in turn: “Do you accept this honorable duty, Recruit Skeldar?” “Do you accept it… Lynka? – (player character’s name)?”

GM Information

Since a player character’s reaction is unpredictable, you may need to improvise. Perhaps the hero feels uncomfortable in this role, perhaps they like it. Regardless: Beron does not accept a “no”. If a recruit refuses the leadership role, Beron will give them a stern lecture. Orders are to be followed. Leading a squad is an honor. Beron knows their skills are not yet refined—that is precisely why training begins now.


If the player character continues to grumble or resist, speak with the player outside the game. They should understand that their hero must at least temporarily take the position until it becomes clear whether they are truly unsuitable. If that still doesn’t help, choose a player character who is absolutely not suited for leadership. Beron will call them forward with the words: “Since (Player Name 1) is unwilling to take responsibility, you, (Player Name 2), will take their place. (Player Name 1) will be assigned to you so they can still learn something.” Beron intends to provoke the originally chosen hero into action through the likely poor decisions of the new squad leader. Each squad leader receives at least three subordinates—more if needed. Try to place all players into a squad.

Read aloud
Beron turns back to the remaining recruits and assigns them to the three new squad leaders. Those assigned step behind their leader. Once everyone is placed, Beron walks to each leader and pins an additional bone token marked with the symbol for squad leader to their chest. They are now officially provisional non-commissioned officers.


“Each squad leader will choose a squad name together with their subordinates. It should be short and striking. This name will be announced at tomorrow’s roll call. From now on, my orders go to the squad leaders—and they pass them on to their squad. Learn to watch over your squad and your comrades—and to show respect to your leader.”


Beron gives you one last stern look, then bellows: “Dismissed!”

The recruits have entered their second year of training. A regular recruit will now introduce themselves as: “Name: Brynn Teeth-Grinder, Rank: Recruit, Squad: Iceclaws, Unit: 2nd REC, stationed at Fort Virkin.”
The squad leader: “Name: Skeldar Watch-Eye, Rank: Recruit Squad Leader of the Iceclaws, Unit: 2nd REC, stationed at Fort Virkin.”