The Gathering

The Gathering is a census of Rangers that has taken place every ten years for over two thousand years. Ever since the first census was called in 3278ey (excepting the year 3588) the Rangers of the world have gathered to obey the command of their founder. They trade information about the world at large and report on the growing populations of the Goblinkind in their areas of observance, they also recognize the Ranger with the most seniority in the Fraternity as the Old Bear.

The Old Bears position is largely ceremonial. Until they are fully reconstituted in time of great threat to mankind, the Rangers don't have permanent organization greater than Master and Learner relationships. 

To prepare for the worst, the Old Bear is called on to open and close the Gathering each decade. He is also authorized to give the braid to any Ranger Lord that he sees is fit to command a chapter should Fraternity need to rise again. He is also authorized to be a non-voting member of the Continuum of the "White Robes" and sit in that august assembly next to the Grand Druid himself.