Marksman

Marksmen evolved from the invention of the bow. While created to empower hunters in taking down small and medium-sized game, it didn't take long for it to be used on enemies as well. Even a peasant with little training can be of tremendous value on a city wall with a bow in hand.

Missiles have come in many shapes over time. From the return of a curve-shaped boomerang to the simplicity of a javelin, life has en devoured to drive hurtled objects as a means of warfare. Bows have advanced in shape and materials and the invention of crossbows has made those with even the most rudimentary training capable of taking down greater warriors.

There are four specialized forms of marksmanship. A Battler, while highly skilled with missile weapons, is also capable of handling many close combat weapons as well. They are the only marksmen that can wear heavy armor and equip a shield. Effectively, a battler is a versatile marksman that can engage their adversaries in close combat.

Fieldsmen are the pride of the Marksmen profession. With their Longbows and 'target-calling' skill, they can reach the enemy lines from a remarkably great distance and deliver damage to even those protected by heavy armor. It takes time to perfect the use of a longbow, but that length of training produces some of the greatest forms of protection on the walls of defending holdings.

On the other hand, Hunters specialize in all missile weapons. Their adversity is complimented by their knowledge of wildlife, the ability to track a target or mark, and the use of elemental magic. Hunters not only provide meat for a holding but are vital in locating criminals, finding breeding grounds for local Tamers and guiding parties through hazardous terrain.

The Runebow specialization actually surfaced as the result of an Elf by the name of Sanzar Leafwisp who was a Marksman by trade but a Sorcerer by birth. In a large, desperate battle between Draconian footsoldiers and a diplomatic Elven envoy, Sanzar endowed his missiles with magic in the heat of battle. The effect had been so notable that the sovereign of the envoy invested much of their personal wealth into researching and training others to endow ammunition with magic.

What this liege uncovered through his investment and research was that charging munitions were viable but had no shelf life. In other words, while a missile could be charged with any form of magic at the time of launch, it would not hold that power after its flight nor maintain it should it not take flight till later. Thus the Runebow profession was born and eventually became one of the most effective assets of Quiyarus.