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There have been questions about seeking vassals, and the role of a paton. Here are some personal observations: Inputs welcome...:)
The allegiance system in Asheron’s call is truly unique. It allows people to set up monarchies to accomplish goals, adventure with reliable (honest) people, and generally assist each other with items, corpse recovery, quests, and the like.
Like the feudal system of old, nobles swore allegiance to the Monarch in return for land and title. In return, they pledged their military support. This led the feudal system of Nobles, Knights, Squires, and Men-at-Arms. All this rested on the peasant, which worked the Land and provided the essential monetary support. Generally, the serf class in the feudal society was fairly well off. They (generally) were not abused, starved, or mistreated. They had certain rights, (compared to a slave) and enjoyed the protection of the Lord during time of war or conflict. Although their life was hard and sometimes not very rewarding, it was better than dying on some distant battlefield.
This brings us to the allegiance system in Asheron’s Call. It is composed of 3 classes.
The Monarch - Any person who has vassals but is without a patron is considered a monarch. The Monarch’s job is difficult at best. Usually these are people who have devoted a significant portion of their free time to handle the duties and associated jobs of running a monarchy. They set the tone of the monarchy, determine general rules of decorum, and handle any issues within the group that cause friction. Most monarchs provide support in a number of other ways such as Internet websites, real life assistance (for in game issues), and ensure functions supported by the monarchy run smoothly.
The Patron - Once another character swears allegiance to you, you are a patron. The patron’s job can be easy or demanding dependent upon the type of vassal. Most people who become patrons do so to help others in the game that have just started, or wish to join an established group. Simply put, the patron’s job is to ensure their vassals are successful. They do this in a number of ways, from providing starting equipment, money (when needed), and advice on character advancement, hunting spots, spell formulae’s, etc. How much is given is dependent upon the patron/vassal relationship. This relationship earns the patron a degree of experience based on loyalty/leadership traits. Obviously, the more vassals the patron has, the greater experience gained.
The Vassal - To a new character, navigating the world of Dereth is a formidable challenge. Setting out to forge your path with minimal starting equipment can quickly lead to repeated trips to the Lifestone and frustration. Thus, most people realize the value of a patron and readily swear allegiance. Most people (in a vassal relationship) are looking for their patron to help get them started. Many have numerous questions, but most prefer to walk their own path. For their part, vassals have the most to gain, while risking very little. More information about allegiances can be found at http://zone.msn.com/asheronscall/tips/ASHEtipsallegiance.asp.
Finding a patron is a serious decision (as serious as you can get for a game), for it can seriously impact your level of enjoyment while playing. After you’ve decided you need a patron, finding a good one can be difficult. There are “plenty of fish in the sea” so to speak, but how do you find one that will suit you?
First, if someone comes up to you and asks you to be his vassal, be wary. The best patrons are usually those who do not actively recruit. Keep an eye out for those who are simply helping to be helping, and are willing to answer your questions without reservation.
Secondly, if you are a mage, selecting a patron that is a dagger or swordsman might not be the best choice. That’s not to say they couldn’t make excellent patrons, but generally melee types tend to collect things that are useful for other melee types.
Third, be careful about swearing allegiance to someone close to you in level. While they may be a delight to be with, take note that they might be unable to assist you when things go sour. Also, be careful of selecting a patron that is high level. They may not be able to spend the amount of time with you that you require, and some of the dungeons you frequent are closed to them. In the end use your judgement. Ask questions, and check out the allegiance website if they have one. Also, ask members of the allegiance of their experiences.
Fourth, if you feel disenchanted about your relationship with your patron, talk with him (or her) about your expectations. If you cannot resolve your differences, ask to be released or as a last resort break the allegiance. Don’t forget to go to his patron if you are not getting satisfaction.
Lastly, be reasonable in what you ask for. Although most people enjoy helping others get started, doing it everyday impacts their enjoyment of the game. Generally it’s bad form to ask for “twinking”, but if you are just starting out, most patrons will assist you in getting through the first few levels to ensure you start off on the right foot. Also, don’t demand items for your character. Most of us would willingly give our Fire Protection V shirt off our backs if you need it, but be sure it’s a need instead of a want.
In my journeys, most people start “looking” for vassals around there 20’s. My advice is, “Don’t Look for Vassals!” It is written, “If you are a Man of Worth, then Men of Worth shall seek you out.” Still, if you would like to become a Patron, place yourself in a position where you can be seen. Visit the starter towns, talk to new arrivals, and be helpful. However, there is a difference between being helpful and being a pest. Also, never ask someone if they would like to be your vassal. It’s like someone calling you middle of dinner and trying to sell you something you don’t want.
It is sometimes difficult to judge who is actually just starting out, and who is just looking to scam some equipment. If you recruit vassals, it is likely you have fallen prey to this type of “con”. To offset this, there are some simple rules to follow.
First, don’t give anything away you’ll regret later. Secondly, it is not necessary to burden the new vassal with AL 150+ armor, every elemental weapon, and a “M” note. I keep about 3 sets of leathers (armoredillo and reedshark) on my mules. They are lightweight, easy to replace, and provide excellent protection to the starting adventurer. Third, ask the prospective vassal what he is looking for in the relationship. His answers will give you some clues about what to expect in the future.
Now that you’ve gotten your first (or second or third or etc.) what do you do? IMHO, the job of a patron is to ensure his vassals success. It seems pretty simple, but that is a tall order indeed. Yet the reward of a successful vassal far outweighs any starting inconveniences. There is something truly fulfilling about assisting the newcomer in his quest for greatness. There is something profound when your vassal looks around at the numerous slain monsters and says, “This sword (wand, bow, etc) rocks!”
It is written, "The stupid shall be punished"
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