The Arrow-Code was developed as a foolproof way for Heralds to convey basic messages. It is why all Heraldic Trainees are taught archery, and why Heralds arrows are fletched with mud-gannet feathers. While goose feathers make much better arrows, the mud-gannet feathers have heavily, evenly spaced barbs. This allows the arrows to be virtually identical to one another, and for a Herald to count the barbs for the code. In addition, a headless arrow in any color announces a Herald's death. A broken arrow in any color signifies a disaster beyond all hope, rescue should not be attempted.