Advancement within a guild reflects a member's growing mastery of their
craft. Starting out as an Apprentice, members climb through a full ladder
of ranks (seen in HELP RANKS) on their way to becoming a Guildmaster,
each step unlocking greater standing and privileges within the guild.
There are two ways to climb this ladder: through the Guildmaster's
personal recognition, or by proving your dedication and skill over time.
Recognition by the Guildmaster
The Guildmaster alone holds the authority to elevate a member on the
spot, without regard for how long they've held their current rank. This
is reserved for those who have distinguished themselves through
exceptional deeds, craftsmanship, or service to the guild's reputation.
A Guildmaster grants such a promotion with GUILD PROMOTE <member>,
and, though used sparingly, may likewise strip a member of rank with
GUILD DEMOTE <member>.
Advancement Through Diligence
The alternative path takes patience rather than favour. A member must
both hold their current rank for a set span of time and put in enough
practice within their guild's profession to demonstrate real competence
before the next rank opens up to them. Time alone will not earn you a
promotion here - your skill must keep pace with your tenure.
Once you meet both thresholds, you may approach the Guildmaster or any
guild tutor - whether player or NPC - and use REQUEST GUILD PROMOTION
FROM <NPC/player>. NPC instructors will readily confirm and grant an
earned promotion, while a player must personally consent before your
rank is raised.
Each rank up the ladder demands more time served and more lessons learned
than the last, so advancement grows steadily harder to earn the higher
you climb. A Guildmaster's bestowed promotion, however, is never bound by
these growing thresholds.