Freeblade
Being a freeblade is not an occupation, but rather a calling. Those who call themselves freeblades feel drawn to excitement and adventure, leaving behind the mundane in search of the extraordinary. That calling is dangerous, and many a would-be freeblade has met an early end. This does little to stop the youth with a head full of romantic ideals from striking out from home for life in the skies.
"Anyone can strap on a sword and call themselves a freeblade. Do you have the heart for it, though?"
A Life of Adventure
Being A Freeblade
Freeblades come and go as they choose, desiring nothing more than the next new experience. Successful freeblades amass fame, wealth, influence, and glory. Unsuccessful freeblades earn an inglorious end, and perhaps a solem toast from their companions. Regardless of either the material rewards, or the inherent dangers, it is the drive to find new thrills, new experiences, and new adventures that defines a freeblade.
There is no exam or license to become a freeblade. If you wish to be a freeblade, simply refer to yourself as one. It is your actions going forward that will cement your reputation as a freeblade. Those without the heart for the life will quickly discover this fact, and ports all across Skysea are filled with these "retired" freeblades. While many would claim to be freeblades, the number of active freeblades at any give time is thought to be about one for every one thousand people in the Seven Kingdoms.
Perception
What the common folk say
Freeblades are first and foremost seen as a romantic ideal. They are larger than life; their deeds and reputations spoken of as both entertainment and current events. The general populace view freeblades as indivuduals with a lust and zeal for excitement that the common folk can never match.
In the halls of power
Freeblades enjoy a mixed opinion for the wealthy and powerful, both as useful allies, and as unpredictable troublemakers. This largely depends on the views and ethics of both the one opining and the freeblade in question. Freeblades are often highly-skilled people who can greatly affect any situation they become involved in, and this trait is often a double-edged sword. One wealthy regent may welcome a freeblade who becomes involved in thwarting a plot against the leadership of the land, while another may find their schemes thwarted by said freeblade.
Experience and Profit
Freeblades may not earn a wage like a laborer, but they do make a living. Oftentimes, wealthy patrons hire freeblades for various tasks, which can pay very well. Freeblades are also often on the forefront of discovery, bringing treasures and knowledge back to society. Their activities also often earn them influence and favors, titles, and sometimes land, ships, and other equipment. Though often dangerous, a successful career can set a freeblade up for a comfortable retirement.
What's in a name?
The term freeblade comes from an earlier time when the Seven Kingdoms were in open war, and referred to mercenaries who owed allegiance to no kingdom, and were thus "free blades." During times of peace the term became more associated with wandering adventurers, until the modern day where the term has lost all its previous military connotations.
Exciting tales would leave the impression that to be a freeblade, one must use a sword. This is not specifically true, however swords are certainly widely used among freeblades. In truth, freeblades tend to use any equipment which they find useful, including swords, guns, armor, and any other useful gear they come across.
