Shoesmith

Career

Qualifications

They require knowledge of the different properties of metals that can be used to make shoes, what combinations work and don't work, how to apply Akrenum to dye a metal mixture, and how to properly measure a Ferali for a set of shoes.
It's also required to have correct anatomical knowledge of the Ferali, specifically of their feet and lower legs and how changes to those things affect their balance and stride.

Career Progression

To enter this profession, one first applies to a master Shoesmith as their apprentice. The apprentice begins by watching and asking questions. Gradually, they're allowed to perform small tasks, such as stocking the furnace and mixing the substance used in the foot molds, working their way up to smelting the lesser metals. As they become more competent at their tasks they learn how to maintain existing shoes and deal with hoof related problems. It's at this stage when apprentices will either continue on or quit, believing this kind of work to be beneath them.


If they make it past the maintenance stage they're taught how to smelt the more important metals and mix the alloys, finally learning how to apply the all important Akrenum to the mix. They next learn how to measure an adult Ferali for a set of shoes, one who has had several sets before and doesn't mind having an apprentice using them to learn. If they succeed in that, they may be permitted to make the shoes under strict supervision. If not, they attempt measuring again until the master believes the apprentice to be ready for making shoes.


Once an apprentice has made a successful pair of shoes, they're permitted to continue making shoes for clients under their master's watch until the apprentice is believed to be competent. At this time, The master applies to have the apprentice raised to a journeyman status by submitting a form to the highest local authority. A date is then set to observe the apprentice at work to see if such a status is deserved.


An apprentice's entire career rides on that date. If they succeed and are granted journeyman status, it's the beginning of a lucrative royal contract. If they fail, they'll be stripped of their apprenticeship and no longer be permitted to work as a Shoesmith in any capacity. It's a great dishonour to fail.

Payment & Reimbursement

Shoesmiths aren't directly paid for their work, as all Ferali wear shoes by custom. It makes it much easier to walk on their hard roads. To make it so that all people can have access to shoes, the Shoesmiths are paid directly by the Crown.