Bloomwardens

If one were to create a list of professions highly esteemed among the Augalai, the role of the Bloomwarden would undoubtedly be found near the very top. It is a profession without which their society would struggle to exist. They say that it is not merely a job, but rather a true calling. Bloomwardens are revered not only for their expertise in tending to the cradles but also for their wisdom and compassion. They embody the principles of harmony and stewardship, ensuring that every new generation of Augalai emerges strong and healthy. Through their meticulous care, they safeguard the future of their people.

Qualifications

A bloomwareden documenting progress of the Verdant Cradles

Not everyone can become a Bloomwarden. Becoming a Bloomwarden requires years of rigorous training, profound dedication, and a deep connection to the land. Those who take on this role do so with a profound sense of responsibility, understanding that the health of the Verdant Cradle mirrors the wellbeing of the entire Augalai society. Apprentices are often chosen during the early stages of their development, based on a combination of innate abilities and personal qualities. Traits highly valued include:

Empathy and Patience: To care for the young and understand their needs.

Curiosity and Observation: To study the subtle changes in seedlings and adapt the environment as necessary.

Harmony with Nature: A natural affinity for the rhythms of the forest and the energy of living things.

I would be such a bad bloomwarden.

Candidates may also be identified by Bloomwardens or elders during community ceremonies, where their connection to the life cycles of the cradles is often observed.

Career

The apprenticeship unfolds in three distinct stages, each designed to build a deep understanding of the Verdant Cradles and the responsibilities that come with the role.

The Seedling Phase (Foundational Learning)

As with all apprenticeships, there is the boring theory, which the apprentices learn during the first phase of their education. They study how the Verdant Cradles work and the different growth stages of their own species, including the requirements young plants need during those phases. Furthermore, they must internalize the history and significance of the Verdant Cradles and their role as future Bloomwardens in Augalai society.

The Budding Phase (Hands-On Practice)

Once apprentices master the basics, they transition to hands-on training under the supervision of a mentor. For the first time, they are allowed to work on the cradles. Besides the daily routine of caretaking, they also start to interact with the becoming parents and learn about the different rituals involved in the growth cycle of a new Augalai, such as the Blooming Ritual. Mistakes during this phase are considered vital learning experiences, and mentors provide gentle correction and encouragement.

The Blooming Phase (Autonomous Care and Trials)

In the final stage of the apprenticeship, they take on greater responsibilities and work independently on their final test - a full growth cycle for one cradle. They manage a cradle from seed planting to the emergence of the new Augalai. Every decision, from nutrient adjustments to responding to stress signals, is theirs to make. Supervisioned of course, as this is no small task. Mentors even might simulate emergencies to test how an apprentice handles pressure.

This sounds like a lot of work and hard learning.

The Ceremony of Roots

After successfully completing their apprenticeship, the new Bloomwarden is honored in the Ceremony of Roots, a community gathering that celebrates their growth and dedication. During this event, the apprentice presents the first Augalai whose growth they oversaw to family, friends, or even the whole community. They also receive their Verdant Mantle, a cloak woven from vines and flowers that signifies their new role.

Lifelong Learning and Mentorship

For a Bloomwarden, the learning never stops. They must continuously adapt as they encounter new challenges. Additionally, as they are expected to teach other apprentices one day, they must prepare for this vital mentorship role within their profession.

Variety of a Bloomwarden's work clothes

Daily Routine

The day-to-day life of a Bloomwarden revolves around the care and maintenance of the Verdant Cradles and the young Augalai they nurture. Their duties encompass a mix of practical, ceremonial, and emotional tasks.

They normally start their day with an inspection of their assigned cradles, checking for stress, disease, or any other possible problems. If necessary, they adjust light, moisture, and nutrient levels in each cradle. There are many Bloomwardens who talk or even sing to the seedlings.

After these initial duties are taken care of, the Bloomwardens engage in interactions with expectant parents, providing them with updates on the current status of their seedling. A significant amount of time is also reserved for the training of young apprentices.

During the afternoon, the Bloomwardens either make necessary repairs to the cradles or collect ingredients for remedies. They may harvest these themselves or purchase them from local distributors of herbs and magical components.

Before the day ends, it is time for them to update their personal journals. They keep detailed records of the development of their seedlings, including milestones, changes, or challenges.

A bloomwarden at a local market, browsing for resources

Social Standing

Bloomwardens hold an esteemed position in Augalai society, revered for their role as caretakers of the Verdant Cradles and guardians of new life. They are seen not only as skilled professionals but as spiritual guides, embodying the values of harmony, dedication, and service to the community. Their work is considered vital to the survival and prosperity of their people, granting them significant respect and influence. While Bloomwardens are admired for their wisdom and compassion, their calling also comes with high expectations, as they are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of nurturing the next generation.

Social status or not, that would be too much responsibility for me.

Many communities provide Bloomwardens with living quarters near the Verdant Cradles, ensuring they are close to their work and the natural environment they cherish. Bloomwardens are granted priority access to rare herbs, magical components, and tools necessary for their work, often at a discount from local suppliers.