Shu

Word association Game!

Warrior

The Avatar Upstairs (Forum Game)

My neighbor seems to be a magical fae being. Nice.

SANDSTRIDERS: A Lost Land

Expect the opening IC post late tonight or sometime in the next day or two. I will work on adding more to the languages as well throughout the next few days while people finish characters and-or work on their own opening posts.

SANDSTRIDERS: A Lost Land

Namihra Ambreen al-Reza

Namihra Ambreen al-Reza

Embrace the storm, for within it, strength is found.

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___________________________________ P R O F I L E Age 24 Race Human Sex Female Height 5'9'' Weight 145 lbs Alignment Chaotic Neutral Class Warrior Monk/Mystic Monk Level 1 Planar Lineage Water & Air Health Points 24 ___________________________________ I N V E N T O R Y - Camping supplies - Fire starter - Torch - Water flask - Provisions (x2 days) - Coin purse (filled) - Vial of poison - Vial of antitoxin - Whetstone - Throwing daggers (x6) - Rope/grappling hook - Hand mirror - Empty bottle (x2) - Empty sack (x2) - Towel - Extra clothes - First aid supplies - Map ____________________________________ E Q U I P M E N T - Scimitar Sword (Steel) - Forearm Guards (Steel) - Shin Guards (Leather) - Wait Guard (Iron) ____________________________________ A T T R I B U T E S Athletics: 14 (+2 / +2 Class bonus) Dexterity: 14 (+4) Intelligence: 12 (+2) Wisdom: 13 (+2/ +1 Class bonus) Charisma: 10 Constitution: 12 (+2) ___________________________________ S K I L L S (A) Strength: 2 (+2 Class bonus) (A) Agility: 2 (+1 / +1 Class bonus) (D) Stealth: 1 (+1) (D) Acrobatics: 1 (+1 Class bonus) (D) Trickery: 0 (I) History: 0 (I) Nature: 1 (+1) (I) Arcana: 1 (+1) (I) Religion: 1 (+1) (W) Perception: 1 (+1) (W) Medicine: 0 (W) Survival: 1 (+1) (C) Persuasion: 0 (C) Deception: 1 (+1) (C) Intimidation: 0 (C) Performance: 0

____________________________________________________________________________ APPEARANCE Namihra has a slender frame, but harbors well-toned muscle beneath her armor. She is above average height for a woman and has dark, piercing eyes and waist-long, thick, dark hair which she either braids or leaves down, though it is not often seen since she wears a headscarf similar in appearance to a hijab. She wears tan pants and a blue jacket over a white blouse with gold trimming, which supposedly belonged to her mother. ____________________________________________________________________________ BACKSTORY Namihra was born into a small religious sect in Qadir, a humble settlement in the outskirts of Tawr, near the Esaadi border. As with all territories within Tawr, those inhabiting Qadir are expected to maintain a fanatic devotion to the Maatrho as their living deity and worship the Dhahit and his pantheon. Due to the settlement’s proximity to Esaad however, it was inevitable that news of the prophet Sharaq’s teachings would be brought over by a stray traveler or caravan. According to this new religion, the faithful of Qadir were misguided in their fealty to the Maatrho. The Tawrish pantheon was said to be a distortion of the truth of the one true god, Arhanphast. Most refused to pay any mind to these tales, but a few chose to heed the words of the prophet. These few established a hidden religious sect of Sharaqism within Tawr, the first foothold Esaad had ever been capable of establishing in its neighboring lands. Those chosen few who shared their creed with Esaad became enlightened to the truth of the false gods they had previously worshiped. While this covert group kept mostly to themselves, they were comprised of members of various social standing including plane touched warriors, swordsmen, and merchants alike, as well as the odd peasant and emissary. As such, news of their affront to the Maathro and his domain was eventually leaked to the Tawran overlords, who became enraged by the blatant treason of these heretics. Tawr responded by sending vicious solders to reenforce the Maatrho’s will over the settlement and show no mercy toward any who dared defy the true gods and lived in blasphemy. Few Sharaqa devotees survived the slaughter. Those who managed to escape their death fled to the northern forests in the disputed territory between the borders of Tawr and Esaad to tend to their wounds and regroup. Among the survivors, an infant (Namihra) was rescued, but her parents were not granted the same fate. Both were skilled mages, her father capable of manipulating the element of water and her mother, the element of air. They sacrificed their lives so that their daughter and a small group of like-minded peers were successful in their withdrawal. Tensions between the two lands grew more volatile and in the over twenty years that have passed since the skirmish, Tawr has kept a tight grip over Qadir with harsh sanctions and vigilant soldiers maintaining order and ensuring no uprises ever stem from the settlement again. During this span of time, those who fled Qadir have been struggling to survive without a stable settlement. Reduced in strength, the nomadic group became radicalized by their homeland’s cruel response and where they were once a predominantly peaceful faction, might now be better classified as religious zealots consumed with avenging their fallen comrades and enacting the Great Father’s will by dismantling the false Tawrish gods. Well trained in the martial arts and swordsmanship, as well as a proficient hunter and tracker, Namihra is the last among their number with a planar lineage and as such, was groomed to become Arhanphast’s chosen warrior against their enemies. Blinded by their rage, her caregivers raised her as a weapon, honing her skills to the best of their abilities with the expectation that once she reached maturity, Namihra would drive a devastating blow against Tawrish forces. As a child, she took these responsibilities to heart, fully believing in the narrative she was fed, and dedicated herself to the cause. As she grew however, Namihra began to understand the depth of what their plan meant for her and became jaded by the impossible outcome. As the years passed, she came to realize she was little beyond a mere tool and refused to forfeit her own autonomy. After devising a credible reason to gain distance from the group so that she might escape the fate they had tied her to, Namihra put her plan into action at the age of 22. She succeeded in securing her leader’s blessing to depart from the group by promising to return after further developing her arcane abilities to strengthen their attack against the Tawrans. Or so they believed. In truth, Namihra has no intentions of keeping her promise, though she does have an interest in augmenting her magical prowess. She has been traveling and scavenging within the lands of Dahard on her own for the past two years. ____________________________________________________________________________ PERSONALITY Namihra is bold and direct with an ability to easily detect manipulation. She condemns any kind of malicious deception, but resorts to it when necessary to avoid danger. She is cautious and generally distrusting of others, loyal first and foremost to herself. Impatient, she prefers not to rely on others for an outcome she is invested in. Resourceful from having survived in the wilds throughout her life, she is also decisive and confident. While she was raised in a religious environment, she is not overtly faithful and takes much of the teachings as one would a child’s story, though she values and respects the tenets of Sharaqism. ____________________________________________________________________________ MOTIVATION AND OUTLOOK Since departing from the clutches of the Sharaqa zealots that raised her, Namihra has had the privilege of choosing her own fate for the first time in her life and has delighted in this freedom. Determined to never fall victim to anyone else’s control again, her current aim is to further develop her planar abilities and find her place in the world. ____________________________________________________________________________ CLASS DETAILS While Namihra has an innate affinity with planar magic, she has no refined skills due to a lack of any instruction and arcane resources such as scrolls, books, etc. Accordingly, she has only a rudimentary understanding of how to manipulate the elements, relying on instinct alone, and has no advanced technique or spells available to her. This is why her class is listed as Warrior Monk/Mystic Monk. She was given the class bonuses based off of the Warrior Monk class.

@Shift

Accepted, post her in the character tab!

SANDSTRIDERS : A Lost Land

Thread is up; roleplayerguild.com/topics/187944-san…

@Kassarock Post your fellow in the character tab at your will.

@Gunther Just make the requested edits regarding your biography and you can do likewise.

To the rest, post outstanding characters in the OOC and I will review and approve them from there.

SANDSTRIDERS: A Lost Land

Credit to @Gcold for the design 💯

Character Sheet Template

Name

Quote

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___________________________________ P R O F I L E Age ... Race ... Sex ... Height ... Weight ... Alignment ... Class ... Level (All players start at level 1.) Planar Lineage (Ayilarite, Mage, Magisword, Mystic Monk, and Za’hir only.) Health Points Constitution x2 ___________________________________ I N V E N T O R Y … ____________________________________ E Q U I P M E N T - Primary Weapon - Secondary Weapon/Shield - Armor Details (If inapplicable leave blank or mark as NA.) ____________________________________ A T T R I B U T E S Points: 12 (These points are meant to be distributed among the six attributes below. This is to be removed from the CS after points have been distributed. Remember to account for racial and class bonuses and penalties. Do not forget to show your work next to each ability regarding points added and subtracted!) Athletics: 10 Dexterity: 10 Intelligence: 10 Wisdom: 10 Charisma: 10 Constitution: 10 ___________________________________ S K I L L S Points: 8 (These points are meant to be distributed among the listed skills below. Remove from the CS after points have been distributed.) (A) Strength: 0 (A) Agility: 0 (D) Stealth: 0 (D) Acrobatics: 0 (D) Trickery: 0 (I) History: 0 (I) Nature: 0 (I) Arcana: 0 (I) Religion: 0 (W) Perception: 0 (W) Medicine: 0 (W) Survival: 0 (C) Persuasion: 0 (C) Deception: 0 (C) Intimidation: 0 (C) Performance: 0

____________________________________________________________________________ APPEARANCE ... ____________________________________________________________________________ BACKSTORY ... ____________________________________________________________________________ PERSONALITY ... ____________________________________________________________________________ MOTIVATION AND OUTLOOK Optional ____________________________________________________________________________ MISC ...

SANDSTRIDERS: A Lost Land

NAAKESH KAANADA

~ Art by Bogdan Marica ~ (ArtStation)

ALIGNMENT
Lawful Neutral

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CLASS
Warrior

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RACE
Human

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BACKGROUND
Naakesh Kaanada is the Zemida of Gaipa, a territory on the western coast of Baneghora. In the midst of the civil war that has broken out after the murder of Queen Sakshi the Zemida has lead an expedition to Dahard. His plans are to claim Dahard for Baneghora - or at least found successful new colonies - and return home after the war had ended, using his newly conquered land as a device for greatening his Houses’ power.

OKAN THE FOUR-EYED

~ Art by Dominik Derow ~ (ArtStation)

ALIGNMENT
Chaotic Neutral

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CLASS
Za’hir

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RACE
Unknown

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BACKGROUND
Okan the Four-Eyed is a man of many professions that has thrived in the free town of Arilquas for decades now. His reputation is divided between storyteller, honest merchant, and collector and the more negative thief, swindler, and cutthroat. He owns a small house on the outskirts of town as well as a stall in the market. Okan has many contacts of both honest and nefarious natures.

MAMUNO

ALIGNMENT
Lawful evil

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CLASS
NA

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RACE
Human

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BACKGROUND
Mamuno “the Grim” is the appointed Imit (“overseer”) of Qadir, a position he holds with much resentment as he prefers Tawr’s great cities to the small, isolated Qadir. He is cruel and uncaring for the common of Qadir, but rewards those who show loyalty to him and the Maatrho of Tawr.

AKOUBO AKSIL

ALIGNMENT
Lawful Good

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CLASS
Warrior

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RACE
Human

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BACKGROUND
Akoubo Aksil is the leader of the Baryakin of Jalatha, the largest settlement of the otherwise nomadic natives of Dahard. After rising to the position of chieftain he lead his tribe from down from further north in search of new food sources. At the end of the perilous southward journey his people would settle in a valley teeming with wildlife, edible plants, and water sources. Aksil’s people look up to and trust his judgement and he in turn cares for and believes in his tribesmen. A good natured soul, he puts family and kinship above all else and will tolerate no threat to the folk of Jalatha.

TAFRARA

ALIGNMENT
Neutral

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CLASS
Mystic Monk

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RACE
Ayiralite (Air)

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BACKGROUND
Tafrara is a soothsayer and concubine of Akoubo Aksil, the Air Ayiralite’s premonitions and connection to the plane of the winds and rains acting as guidance for the chieftain. She was found by Aksil’s tribe in the desert short of a decade ago deeply wounded and nearly dead from hunger and thirst. After she was nursed back to health Aksil offered for her to stay with the tribe, entranced by her beauty and impressed by her unique ability to glimpse the future through vivid dreams. In time she would come to be his lover, never leaving his side and always offering him counsel when asked for it. Little is known of her past other than that she fled from Tawr and ended up lost in the Manudhe where Aksil’s men would find her. While heavily accepted by the folk of Jalatha many look at her with some suspicion, finding her tight-lipped demeanor and secrecy about her past life very eyebrow raising.

SANDSTRIDERS: A Lost Land

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Call of the eldritch one…



~ Art by haryarti ~ (DeviantArt)

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The Manudhe Desert - a desolate expanse of endless dunes, treacherous canyons, and dried oasis’. In Equarish it is known as the Forsaken Desert, a name deserved for such a wasteland inhabited only by madmen and monsters. It is the very core of Dahard and many claim the beating black heart of the land’s savage nature and woes. Such claims and warnings of course do not keep the most daring away, many of whom's bleached bones can be found buried in the sand still clutching their rusted swords and broken spears from when they drew their last rattling breaths.

Malachy of Ezain was one such daring man, but he was one who still lived. Having braved the dangers of the Manudhe Desert and relying on his wits and innate skills he had found what he had been looking for, that which had first driven him unto his travels and brought him to Dahard. Malachy had spent years searching for the ruins of an ancient city, one of many that had been lost within the great maw of the Manudhe over the countless centuries. This city however was said to be the final resting place of an ancient artifact. Already worth it’s weight in gold it also is a coveted prize among those with magic in their blood, the fabled relic said to give one great elemental powers.

Where so many had given up or failed Malachy had finally found the remains of the ancient city. All the time spent pouring through scrolls, comparing outdated maps to ancient tablets, and bickering with desert sages had proven fruitful in the end. Finding the ruins themselves would be a reward regardless. Even if the relic Malachy sought was not there or indeed just a tale the ruins would surely have a number of treasures and valuable items to be claimed. And as Malachy now trudged across the sands towards the cities’ towering walls he wished for the hundredth time he had never found the accursed place. For this was not his first arrival.

Malachy neared the massive front gate which stood as tall as any building, his eyes scanning the walls overhead. It was quiet as it had been when he had first came here and every other time after, the air as dead as the city itself. There were no signs of any people or animals to be seen anywhere, the only tracks being those of Malachy’s own two feet. He was just short of the gate when he heard an unwelcomely familiar voice.

“Malachy… you return.”

Malachy froze in place, eyes turning to a shadowy nook to the left of the gate. A dark look crossed his already downtrodden visage as he made out the silhouette of the voices’ owner within the shadow. “Yes.” Malachy said flatly.

“Well,” the voiced rasped, “what have you to present?”

“I do not answer to the likes of you.” Malachy retorted, jaw jutted out. “Let me through the gate.”

A hoarse chuckle, “No, you do not answer to me, tis not I who holds your leash. But I am the gatekeeper.” From within the darkness of the shadow Malachy could see two gleaming white eyes and a yellowed smile of cold spite. Malachy spit in disgust but knew he had to appease the curiosity of the creature before him if he wished to enter the city. He had to do so before after all.

“I visited the foreigner as told.”

“Well?”

“His army is small. He calls upon locals and sellswords to do his bidding. I imagine he hopes to gain the allegiance of the natives as well.”

“Hmm,” mumbled the hunched form, “what of his stronghold?”

“It is barely worthy of being called such, mere houses and tents thrown together around the remnants of an old ruin.”

“Easily fell.”

“I suppose.” Malachy said saltily, lips drawing into a crinkle of contempt.

There was a moment of silence, Malachy stood impatiently as the shaded being remained quiet. He spoke not and made no effort to move forward from his tight cranny. “Will you open the gate now?” Malachy snapped finally having no interest in spending anymore time in the company of the hunkered gatekeeper. There was an amused chuckle followed by the call for the gate to be opened, the hunkered creature’s fried shouts even worse than his calmer tone. Like metal against rock it made Malachy’s hairs stand on end.

“Go slave, your owner awaits you.”

As the gate slammed shut behind him Malachy began the long walk through the damned city. Crumbling shells that were once houses danced with shadows and the fleeting shapes of those who watched the lone man pass by. They like the gatekeeper denizens of this lost city, and like him servants of the one whom Malachy now went to see. As bothersome as the constant movements from the corners of his eyes were what truly vexed Malachy the most was the empty silence. There were no gusts of wind, no caws or screeches of birds, not even the buzzing of an insect. The only sound to be heard was the scraping of his shoes against the sand laden stones and the rhythmic thump of his staff as he walked. One could say that the endless silence was near maddening, Malachy feeling his feet begin to glide beneath him as he was eager for both more sound as well as to be away from this place again as fast as possible.

Malachy had done as he had last been instructed which was to journey south to the coast where the foreign nobleman who had arrived a year ago had first raised his banner. He had since erected fortifications which soon had drawn in settlers as well as merchants and other travelers seeking the safety of walls and soldiers. Malachy was told to visit the colony site which had been named “Kaganja” and learn what he could about the foreigners, their leader, and the settlement. Having spent twelve days among the people he had learned much and now - like the lapdog he had become - returned to report to his superior.

As he ascended towards his destination atop the hill in the midst of the city Malachy’s disgust and seething had been reduced to wistful melancholy . He had felt often since the first time he departed this city, his fate sealed as he began his new life as an empty thrall. He wondered how long before he became like the gatekeeper and the rest of the malformed beings he had encountered here. Naught but a shambling husk that followed the commands of the ancient being that had snared him in it’s web when he had first arrived. In the end it was Malachy’s ambition and greed that had brought him here and thus placed him at the mercy of forces greater than his comprehension, and he knew this without denial. How arrogant he had been traipsing into the ancient ruins alone thinking himself a match for all that lie within only for his adventure to end with him on the ground pleading for his life in a spreading pool of blood. His pleas were indeed answered though it was hardly an act of mercy. This brief exchange for his continued existence was the signature on the contract that reduced him to what he was, a slave bowing to the voice of one most sinister. His body and soul theirs now.

As he clumb the great steps towards the sanctum of his host, or rather leash holder, Malachy gathered what composure and lingering hope he had held on to so far. What precisely he hoped for he had no clear picture, he just knew that it helped him to face the fear that came with returning to his subjugator as well as coping with the knowledge that he had a hand in their evil even as a mere emissary. The chance that he could perhaps escape from the snare in which he was caught. That maybe he could find someone to help free him from his imprisonment. This flickering hope and strained grasp on his self was all he had left.

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KAGANJA PROMPT

When Zemida Naakesh Kaanada arrived in Dahard he founded the first Baneghoran colony seen in the Lost Land in nearly four hundred years. He chose to name it “Kaganja” after his grandfather. The Zemida’s laborers toiled without rest to reconstruct the ruined fort that he now uses as both a court of affairs and an estate. A wall and towers were erected for defensibility and as the months passed the population of Kaganja began to grow. First traders came and then farmers and craftsmen followed by fisherman and sea merchants, the latter warranting the construction of dockyards.

In time the humble Baryakin began to visit Kaganja, arriving in small caravans to trade with the Baneghorans. The Zemida Kaanada, eager to gain allies in Dahard, began to offer protection for the Baryakin caravans as well as allow them to set up an outpost nearby to Kaganja. Emissaries often arrive with invitations to the Zemida’s court with gifts in hand for the nomadic folk. While receptive to their host the Baryakin remain cautious, as by nature they can be slow to trust. Kaanada does not let this falter his intentions and continues to do his best to make the Baryakin feel welcome and to warmth their trust seeing them as an invaluable people to be able to turn to.

As Kaganja grows the Baneghoran nobleman has begun to find that his defenses are spreading thin. He has less than twenty ships in his small fleet and his “army” is little more than a few score of infantry. Not yet willing to begin levying the locals he calls for volunteers to join the ranks and also asks for any mercenaries and drifters that might seek work or purpose. Many sellswords have come and are paid well to escort caravans and defend nearby outposts, others come as well offering their abilities as scouts, explorers, and even advisors. While discriminating in his choices the Zemida directs that any noteworthy visitors be directed to him or his ratham - or first advisor.

Anyone skilled and able enough seeking work or a calling for their abilities can find themselves piquing the interest of Naakesh Kaanada provided they are competent and loyal by nature.

QADIR PROMPT

From his palace in Tanupadet does the light of the Maatrho’s divinity shine far, even into the darkness of Dahard. Qadir was occupied by Tawr around twenty years back and was the only piece of land in Dahard that the Maatrho managed to cling to after the devastation of his expedition. While considered a vassal and not actually part of Tawr this has not stopped the heavy influence of Tawrish language, culture, and religion, the latter in particular at the encouragement of a whip or blade.

The Imit, the “overseer” of Qadir, enforces the Maatrho’s will without hesitation. Insurgency and deviance in any form is not tolerated, a life not dedicated to the Maatrho and his glorification is seen as sinful and local citizens are reminded of this by the presence of, not just Tawrish soldiers, but the Eye of Jhator - a militant faction in Tawr that revere the god of justice and balance as well as act as the Maatrho’s enforcers in state and religion.

Qadir is a popular rest stop and easily safer in regards to crime than Arilquas to the west. That said the laws are strict and range from trade imports to the amount of time one is allowed to spend at the inn. Good citizens that willingly embrace Tawrish way of life and accept the god-king as their lord have naught to fear, but any unbending visitor must always mind themselves even when buying a loaf of bread.

ARILQAS PROMPT

Nestled between Dahard and Esaad Arilquas is a popular trade post and rest stop. People passing along the northern border of Dahard will stop here to rest their legs, partake in the local establishments, and trade with fellow drifters, merchants, and visiting Baryakin.

Arilquas is best known for it’s diversity of custom and also it’s lack of a ruler. This has lead to something of local “individual laws” as well as the formation of militias and self asserted tribunals though most of these petty groups haven’t the power they like to think. Mercenaries are also manifold in Arilquas acting as neighborhood watch, caravan and post guards, and defenders from raiders and monsters.

Arilquas as of late has become rather plagued by ruthless bands of sellswords and aggressive merchants looking to seize anything they can from locals and rivals alike. This has lead to fights and skirmishes in some instances lately between merchant enforcers and local watch.

SANDSTRIDERS: A Lost Land

- Upon these cursed sands does the blood of a hundred kings flow. -

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Dahard - the Lost Land.

Named thus for as long as any can remember no king or queen has truly ruled this realm. A sanctuary for bandits and bizarre cults, plagued by great beasts and abominations - none have tamed this wild and godless land. And yet daring and wayward souls continue to come seeking wealth and glory. And there is indeed wealth and glory to be claimed in Dahard. The bones of long forgotten ruins and ancient cities harbor lost riches and wonders beyond one’s imagining. Many brave adventurers have set out to the Lost Land seeking their fortunes.
But Dahard is an unforgiving place and the weak and foolish do not survive long. Only those with fortitude can hope to harrow this land and unearth it’s secrets and claim it’s spoils.

Fate has ferried you to Dahard. Do you seek treasure, knowledge, or something else? Perhaps you follow the horn call of the conqueror. A powerful man from afar has come seeking to subjugate - to rule - like countless before him. He raises his banner proudly, welcoming any who would serve his will in Dahard. Join him in his endeavor or follow your own path, all will face their trials here at the whim of a beholder greater than any mortal being.

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Welcome to Sandstriders : A Lost Land!
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In this RP players take up the role of a traveler newly arrived in Dahard, an unclaimed realm with a troubled and bloody history. For reasons your own you have come here be you a treasure hunter, intrepid explorer, or just a wandering vagabond. Regardless of your motivations you will find yourself swept up in a series of events that will shape the future of not just Dahard but the surrounding lands as well. It will be up to the player to decide what role you will fill and with whom you will stand by in the end.

This will be an open world experience, that said there will of course be a flowing narrative to be followed. Decisions made and paths taken by players will have various effects on the moving plot, the scale of these effects will vary of course based upon the stakes and elements of the scenario at hand. The main plot is centered on the arrival and exploits of a nobleman from a foreign land, his desire for prestige and power driving him to claim a prize that none before him have. His course however is just part of a greater design and the march of his army will stir forces beyond imagining.

Carve your name in the sand and stone as you meet your destiny in the Lost Land! Be it to serve the first true master of the realm and bring order or become an instrument of the forces of chaos leaving rivers of blood in your wake.

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Expectations and an outline on gameplay and functions.
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• Adhere to the guild rules of course.
• This will be 18+ but in cohesion with guild rules avoid sexually explicit themes and other fringe material that others may be uncomfortable with.
• Please do not detach yourself from the storyline. As already clarified this RP is open world, the context being that players are allowed to pursue personal goals and explore the land of their own volition. That said everyone is expected to have a presence in the main plot as it unfolds so generally speaking keep your character in the loop.
• Stay in sync with the main theme, specifically in regards to character creation. Opposite the typical high fantasy adventure this RP was founded on the culture and mythology of the Middle East, some specific inspirations were taken from the Indian subcontinent as well. Players are expected to stay true to this foundation throughout their participation. Ask me for further clarity if needed.
• Players are allowed only one character at a time. If your character dies you are allowed to create a new one.
• This will be a lite tabletop campaign. What I mean by this is that while we will be using tabletop devices - i.e dice, ability scores, etcetera - this is very much still a narrative driven RP. Putting a ratio to it this will be 2/3 narrative and 1/3 dice rolls and scoring.
• Post content should range within three to ten paragraphs to put it roughly. In some instances less than three paragraphs is fine, but even then bare minimum should be no less than around eight to ten sentences. I am less strict on longer than average posts but even then let us try and keep things within the “casual to low advanced” scale.
• Discord will be used for a notable amount of communication/discussion while IC content will remain onsite.
• Please notify the GM of any extended absence you may need/have. I’m willing to work with you if you just let me know. If you have simply lost interest I would still appreciate a heads up with my guarantee of no hard feelings.

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Map and background of Dahard as well as
a guide on locations.
(The map will be updated as players explore more of the land.)
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BACKGROUND

Dahard, or “the Lost Land” roughly in Eqarish, is a an almost wholly unsettled region on the southern borders of Esaad and Tawr. Despite centuries of conquests and colonization efforts no kingdom has survived here, no empire has managed to retain control of the realm for more than a few years at most. The last efforts made were those of a Tawrish expedition twenty years past that met a violent end, as is common in the Lost Land.

Despite it’s foreboding history Dahard is not devoid of human life. Small tribes of nomads - Baryakin - call this land their home. They hunt game along the steppes and forage plants and herbs that grow wild in the deserts. Oasis’s and freshwater springs provide them with sustenance. Life is not easy for these free people, when not threatened by the elements or food and water shortages they face the danger of the many beasts that lurk the sands. Giant scorpions, serpopards, werehyenas, and even the dreaded roc plague those who dare the wastes of Dahard.

Aside from the humble Baryakin other folk - many less than desirable - dwell here. Bandits, devil worshipping cults, and exiles are among the land’s inhabitants. Farther to the north caravans often skirt along the border and the Baryakin are known to set up camps here to trade with those passing by. These makeshift trade posts often serve as refuge and resting places for merchants and travelers. Mercenaries often linger about as well offering their services to those who need protection, be it merely to cross the desert safely or delve into an ancient ruin.

The further inland that one goes the dangers are greater, of course so are the spoils to be had. Within the maw of the dreaded Manudhe Desert are the remains of the many kingdoms lost over the centuries. These crumbling ruins hide the riches and power of long forgotten rulers, one most only have the strength and wit to find them.

MAP

GUIDE

GUIDE

• Arilqas: A humble trade post nestled on the border of Esaad and Dahard. While somewhat lively considering it’s location it is still little more than a rest stop. Aside from the small Baryakin encampment nearby it has few permanent residents. The only notable establishments are the inn, the chaki den, and some small craft houses - notably the local herbalist, swordsmith, and tailor. Arilquas has no ruling lord or garrison making it an attractive place for mercenaries and drifters to offer themselves as local protection for a price.



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• Qadir: Like Arilqas, Qadir is a place for caravans and travelers to rest their feet after a long journey. Qadir however lacks the independence of Arilquas as it is ruled by Tawr from afar as a vassal of Maatrho. Tawrish soldiers stand vigilant over the place and the Imit - or “overseer” - enforces Maatrho’s will over the people. The Baryakin are forbidden from camping near Qadir and the Imit imposes the laws of Tawr on the locals at the ends of his lash and blade. While arguably safer than many of Dahard’s small settlements and outposts this is at the loss of local custom, culture, and even religion.



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• Ruins of Prizata: The ruins of an ancient citadel left by the long departed Dirvek, these people first arose in what is now southeastern Esaad. Centuries ago their kingdom was destroyed by Esaad and Prizata sacked. Centuries of looting have left nothing of value though if one scrapes through the stone and ash enough cheap baubles and trinkets can be found.



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• Tomb of Arbaz: The final resting place of Arbaz “The One King of Jush.” This underground catacomb holds the preserved remains of King Arbaz, his wife Jati, and his oath brother and protector Einas. Many have sought to seize upon this ancient tomb and claim King Arbaz’s treasures but all have failed. Aside from the dangers sealed within the tomb, it’s very entrance is impossible without a sacred phrase known only to a few living men.



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• Muqaha Oasis: This humble oasis rests atop a hill overlooking the rolling land of the Jushites. It is here that their sages communicate with the gods and share their wisdom with the tribes. This is a holy sight for the Jushites and a place of pilgrimage, particularly for tribe leaders or young men coming of age seeking the wisdom of the oracles.



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• Tower of Bennu: Built just under twenty years ago, this majestic limestone tower was meant to be a symbol of Tawrish grandeur and authority over Dahard. A beacon symbolizing the taming of a savage land and people. Named after the elder sister of the Maatrho, this monumental structure was sacked by bandits amid the slow withdrawal of the Tawrish. All within were slaughtered and anything of value that the bandits could carry was taken. Once a house of wonder and lavishness the Tower of Bennu is now naught but a monster infested ruin. Any traveler brave enough to enter can still with luck find treasures left behind or hidden away by the Tawrish nobles.



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• Jalatha: A small Baryakin village, one of their few known permanent settlements. This small village lies beyond the Manudhe desert and is shielded from the perils of the open desert. While charitable it’s people are very closed and communal viewing outsiders with suspicion.



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• Ruins of Sepperun: Originally a Tawrish colony, Sepperun was abandoned shortly after the fall of the Tower of Bennu. Already weakened by sickness and food shortage, the beleaguered garrison and population fled after the arrival of giant scorpions that tunneled up from beneath the sands. Many were killed in the sudden flight and less than half of the survivors made it back to Tawr. The scorpions remained and the forgotten colony had become a dwelling and nesting ground for them. This of course hasn’t stopped treasure hunters from daring the ruins over the years.



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• Temple of Felgaphan: Felgaphan was a Dirvekish mythical being of endless debauchery and hedonistic nihilism. “A short life of pleasures and delights in a sadistic world,” so said the priests and followers of Felgaphan. This ancient temple was constructed after the fall of the Dirvekish kingdom beyond the reach of Esaad. While the various cults of Felgaphan have risen and fallen over time the temple has stood tall, maintained on the backs of slaves and hostages taken by the reclusive priests. The temple is protected by ancient wards and traps that have kept brigands - or those who revile the heathen following - from destroying and plundering it.



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• Lost City of Kandrukati: Four hundred years ago the Baneghoran king Saathvik began the construction of Kandrukati amid his western expansion across the sea. Kandrukati rose from it’s simple origin as a coastal colony on the Umurud Sea to a bustling hive of commerce and shipping within a few short years, though this success was tragically short-lived. During Saathvik’s war with the Zakkites the native people were brutal in their methods to see the city fall. In the final days of the war the Zakkites finally seized Kandrukati and razed it, the Baneghoran citizens were slaughtered in gruesome fashions and their bodies mutilated and abused in the streets. Having driven the Baneghorans from their land the Zakkites returned to their desert homes. Kandrukati stands now as a blood painted husk of a city inhabited only by packs of werehyenas and restless spirits that stalk the streets at night.



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• Kaganja: This small coastal outpost is the most recent effort of colonization, this time by the hand of Naakesh Kaanada, a Zemida from Baneghora. For now it is little more than a wooden stockade around a few hastily erected stone and lumber buildings.

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An explanation of how our system will work.
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CHARACTER CREATION

Let us start with basic character creation. The character sheet will for the most part be familiar and forward. Character name, age, sex, race, backstory and personality - the usual profile. Players will also have two score charts to fill out - attributes and skills. These attributes and skills will be critical in combat as well as scenes where particular prowesses are necessary such as picking locks, escaping cave-ins, or the ability to talk your way past a guard. So consider carefully when filling out your scores.

Players have eleven classes and three races (one of which has four sub-races) to choose from. Each class and race have respective bonuses and penalties on scores, something to be kept in mind.

Players are expected to shape their character in a way so that attributes and skills are on par with character backstory and to a slight extent class. Do not be shy about increasing character abilities in a diverse and nifty manner of course, but let us try and avoid stretching out our builds in bizarre ways that contradict background and class.

ATTRIBUTES AND SKILLS

Attributes represent a character’s strengths and talents. There are six total attributes; Athletics, Dexterity, Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma, Constitution

Each of these attributes - barring Constitution - is parent to specific relatable skills. These skills while basic are fundamental to shaping and diversifying character core abilities and influencing outcomes in various situations. Skills usually act as buffers for attributes and other times are independently employed though the latter is less frequent.

There are sixteen total skills: Strength (A), Agility (A), Stealth (D), Acrobatics (D), Trickery (D), History (I), Nature (I), Arcana (I), Religion (I), Perception (W), Medicine (W), Survival (W), Persuasion (C), Deception (C), Intimidation (C), Performance (C)

Players increase their attributes and skills by leveling up. Every two levels one attribute point is earned and every one level two skill points are earned.

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• Athletics covers difficult situations characters encounter while climbing, jumping, or swimming for example. For melee fighters Athletics is used for attacks making it an important attribute. Strength and Agility are core buffers in melee combat. These skills are also used in circumstances demanding of physical ability, such as bashing through a blocked door (Strength) or avoiding a rock fall (Agility).

• Dexterity accounts for situations requiring a fluid, nimble approach such as sneaking, picking locks or pockets, or vaulting walls. It also is the core attribute for archers or other characters that use ranged attacks. Dexterity is host to the skills Stealth, Acrobatics, and Trickery. Stealth is of course the ability to sneak, useful for lurkers of shadow and agents of the night. Acrobatics is the ability to smoothly traverse particularly difficult terrain such as slippery mountain faces or across rooftops in the night. Trickery is the ability to pick locks, lift coin purses, and disarm traps and other mechanisms. Best for thieves and of course tricksters.

• Intelligence determines a characters’ general intellect and knowledgeability of the world (History, Nature, Religion). Those with magical ability use their understanding of magic and the planes to bend and use their power to their will. Arcana allows one to identify magical sources, items, and even creatures through planar traces. Those with the proper temperance - and a little luck - can tap into planar wells and increase their knowledge and magic alike.

• Wisdom measures a character's practicality, cleverness, and perceptiveness. Perception, Medicine, and Survival. Perception allows a character to notice clues, detect secret doors, follow tracks, or observe suspicious behavior in someone. Perception is particularly critical for archers as it buffers their Dexterity when they attack. Medicine is the ability to make poultices, brew tonics, and apply proper treatment to wounds. Survival is one’s ability to make it in the wilderness or in tough situations, this covers things such as foraging, hunting, and sheltering oneself from the elements.

• Charisma represents one’s ability to interact with and influence others. This attribute is host to the four skills Persuasion, Deception, Intimidation, and Performance. Charismatic characters can outdo others in a variety of ways when they play their cards right. Barter your way past a checkpoint or be taken in by impressionable nobility - or talk or threaten your way out of being arrested.

• Constitution measures a characters’ durability. The higher one’s constitution the more health points they have. (Multiply Constitution by x2.)

DICE ROLLING

Combat Dice
2d8 (Two eight-sided dice.)

Ability and Skill Check Dice
1d4 (One four-sided die.)

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COMBAT

Melee: A single turn of melee has either one or two pairs of dice rolls involved; the initial attack and attempted dodge, and then potential contact - be it blocked or a hit. Character scores that play into this are the Athletics attribute and then the Strength and Agility skills. Here is an example to elaborate…

1. Karim moves to attack Rashad, hence the first roll. Both players roll two eight-sided dice. As the attacker Karim's Athletics score (14) is buffed by both his Strength (4) and his Agility (4). Rashad however only has his Agility score (4) to buff his Athletics (14). This is the rule in the first pair of rolls as in order to dodge Rashad must rely on his agility. Karim’s player rolls a 6 and 8 (14), add this to his overall buffed Athletics score of 22 which equals to 36. Rashad rolls a 5 and 4 which adds 9 to his 18 which equals 27. Rashad’s player has failed to dodge as his score his lower than Karim’s. Had Karim instead landed a 2 and 3 for example - giving him a 27 - and Rashad rolled two 6’s - giving him 30 - Rashad would have dodged and Karim missed his swing. (Ending Karim’s turn.)

2. Rashad has failed to dodge so he must defend from the attack. Both player’s dice are rolled again - this time both player’s Athletics are buffed with their Strength and Agility scores. Karim’s player rolls a 5 and 8, adding this to his overall score of 22 (14 Athletics + 4 Strength + 4 Agility) equals a 35. Rashad’s player rolls a 5 and 4 which adds 9 to his score of 20 (14 Athletics + 2 Strength + 4 Agility) equaling 29. Rashad has failed to block or parry Karim’s attack causing him damage. Subtracting the difference between Karim and Rashad’s score equals 6, damaging Rashad for 6 HP. Had Rashad scored higher he would have blocked or parried Karim’s attack.

Remember that HP are totaled by multiplying constitution by two, hence in this case - having a constitution of 13 - Rashad has lost 6 of 26 HP.

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Ranged (Archery & Throwing): In the event of an archery or other ranged attack there is a single roll, each player rolling two eight-sided dice as with melee combat. The ranged attacker shoots/throws their missile and the defender can attempt to dodge the attack. Characters possessing a shield can attempt a block saving throw in the event of failing the dodge roll. Example…

1. Miswar shoots his bow, launching an arrow at Kesh. Both players roll their dice (eight-sided). Miswar’s Dexterity (16) is buffered by his Perception (6). His player rolls a 4 and an 8, totaling his score at 34. Kesh’s player meanwhile rolls two 7’s, adding this to his Athletics (14) and Agility (6) scores also equals 34, a tie. In the events of tie’s - and this transitions back to melee as well - while the dodge failed zero damage was done hence Miswar’s attack turn is over and Kesh suffered no injury.

2. Had Miswar outscored Kesh then - again, as with melee - the damage from his arrow would’ve been the outcome of the difference between his and Kesh‘s rolls. Had Kesh outscored Miswar then Miswar’s arrow would have missed. However, as mentioned, if Kesh has a shield a saving throw can be made that utilizes his Athletics and Agility scores like with dodging melee attacks, the necessity for agility here being to speedily deflect the incoming missile.

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Ranged (Magic): The mechanics behind attacks are much like their non-magical counterparts. Aside from a shift in attributes and skills evoked only other magic users can deflect/block magical attacks, anyone else must evade or suffer the attack. Example…

1. Zane casts a fireball at Amad, a rogue. Both players roll their dice. Zane’s player rolls a 1 and 6 to add to his Intelligence (16) and Arcana (6) scores which equals 29. Amad’s player rolls a pair of 7’s, adding 14 to his Athletics (12) and Agility (8) scores totaling 34. Amad dodges Zane’s attack ending his turn.

2. If Zane had instead scored higher his fireball would have hit and afflicted fire damage on Amad.

3. (Alternative) Had Amad been a mage, magisword, or za’hir he could have - with a sufficient Intelligence and Arcana score - blocked/deflected Zane’s attack with a saving roll.

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Just a note - dice rolling as far as combat is concerned will be strictly for “bosses” or unique/key enemies encountered. A reminder that, while employing a tabletop setup, this RP is still very narrative heavy and most combat will be scripted out.

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ATTRIBUTE AND SKILL CHECKS

Throughout player adventures you will encounter situations that will demand particular skills to succeed in - or in some cases at least survive. These will call upon character attributes and skills of course, as for what attributes and skills are put to the test will depend on the circumstances at present. Some such as brawling, combing through an old library, or sneaking across a trap laden hallway will evoke all of one’s specialized abilities. Others - such as bribing a guard or tracking bandits across the desert - will demand a specific skill such as Persuasion or Perception.

When such checks arise against other characters they are resolved through scoring respective skills against each other plus a dice buffer (1d4). Attempting to deceive or persuade a particularly perceptive NPC - even one with very low Charisma - is apt to fail while in other cases having a higher Charisma score than an NPC can work wonders. Or say a character is chasing after a thief and lacks the Acrobatics to follow him across walkways and overhead balconies, they can rely on their Perception and Agility skills to stay on his trail even if from below on the streets.

When facing environmental challenges dice rolls will typically be employed to challenge characters.

These checks are very influential in plot events and what direction the story goes based upon character choices and the outcome/consequences of these choices.

CLASSES

Warrior
Fighters for master or for oneself, any man or woman who has mastered the blade, spear, or mace can call themself a warrior. Versatile and rounded for prolonged combat.
+2 Athletics, +2 Strength, +2 Agility

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Slayer
For some strength is all that is needed, those who swing the largest weapon the hardest indeed draw much blood. Slayers are skilled in the wielding of greatswords, battle axes, halberds, and other two handed weapons. Some more recklessly, others with more control.
+2 Athletics, +4 Strength

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Archer
The bow is deadly but eloquent, arrows like the smite of a god into the heart of an enemy.
+2 Dexterity, +4 Perception

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Thief
Deft hands and a light foot are not always used honestly. A true thief melds with shadow, their skills giving them all the stealth of a cat when robbing their mark.
+2 Dexterity, +2 Trickery, +1 Acrobatics, +1 Agility

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Asazai
Trained killers for coin, Asazai are like cobras in the night. Their entry unheard, their trail unseen, and their blade as lethal as a poisonous bite.
+1 Athletics, +1 Agility, +2 Dexterity, +2 Trickery

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Warrior Monk
Some monks achieve balance and enlightenment through meditation, pilgrimage, and charity. Others through defense of their order, faith, or community.
+2 Athletics, +1 Strength, +1 Agility, +1 Wisdom, +1 Acrobatics

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Trickster
Grifters and scoundrels, pickpockets and con artists, tricksters can come in any form and motivation.
+2 Dexterity, +4 Charisma

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Mage
Those blessed - or cursed - with the blood of the elemental planes can bend the forces of nature around them. They can summon the elements to aid them in battle and channel their powers through items and objects of the world.
+4 Intelligence, +2 Arcana

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Magisword
Not all those with the power of magic spend their time solely honing their ability to cast spells and unravel the secrets of the elemental planes. Indeed many do the opposite, channeling their power only when needed and relying more on their sword arm.
+1 Athletics, +1 Strength, +1 Agility, +2 Intelligence, +1 Arcana

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Mystic Monk
Those with the power of the elements are reviled by much of the world but likewise embraced. Many monk orders and religious sects welcome those with the power of the elemental planes to join their ranks. Mystic Monks divide their attentiveness between mastering their blood born power and their physical and mental prowess.
+2 Athletics, +2 Intelligence, +1 Wisdom, +1 Acrobatics, +1 Arcana

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Za’hir
Mind the one who can manipulate nature as they can the mind and hearts of men and women. Za’hir are both renowned and reviled for their silver tongues and magical abilities. These story tellers, poets, and singers are people of rumor and mystery said to converse with jinn and even devils.
+2 Intelligence, +2 Arcana, +2 Charisma, +1 Performance

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RACES

REALMS AND KINGDOMS

MAGIC AND RELIGION

LANGUAGES

BESTIARY

SANDSTRIDERS : A Lost Land

Meet my latest 'old person who is good with sharp objects' character:

Kindly Old Killer

Harwa Ahmestep

"No soul is irredeemable. None are beyond the forgiveness of the Great Father."

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Art by Fetsch ___________________________________ P R O F I L E Age 59 Race Human Sex Male Height 5'11" Weight 220lb Alignment Lawful Good Class Slayer Level 1 Health Points 32 ___________________________________ I N V E N T O R Y - Water Skin. - Bed roll. - Begging Bowl. - Flask of distilled liquor. - String of Prayer Beads. - Loaf of Bread. - Bronze Face Mask, broken. ____________________________________ E Q U I P M E N T - A two handed Twaran Battle-Axe. - The Shafrat Alrahma, a thin curved dagger, used to kill mortally wounded opponents. - Tarnished Bronze Scale Mail, with brightly coloured ragged arming garments. ____________________________________ A T T R I B U T E S Athletics: 16 (Class bonus +2, +4) Dexterity: 10 Intelligence: 10 Wisdom: 10 Charisma: 12 (+2) Constitution: 16 (+6) ___________________________________ S K I L L S (A) Strength: 8 (Class bonus +4, +4) (A) Agility: 0 (D) Stealth: 0 (D) Acrobatics: 0 (D) Trickery: 0 (I) History: 0 (I) Nature: 0 (I) Arcana: 0 (I) Religion: 1 (+1) (W) Perception: 0 (W) Medicine: 0 (W) Survival: 0 (C) Persuasion: 1 (+1) (C) Deception: 0 (C) Intimidation: 2 (+2) (C) Performance: 0

____________________________________________________________________________ A P P E A R A N C E Harwa Ahmestep is a heavyset Tawran man, who is rapidly leaving his middle years behind him and entering his old age. The effects of the passage of time are evident all over his person. His long mane of coiled braids has lightened from black, to grey, and at last to white. It stands stark against his dark skin, and though time does not whiten that, it does not escape its grasp unscathed. A spiderweb of scars and wrinkles stretches across its surface, testament to a lifetime of experiences. His physique gives the impression of solidity. Though not overly tall, Harwa more than makes up for it in his girth, with wide shoulders, thick arms, and a heavy belly. In his youth, he was hard and chiselled all over, his body a tool forged for violence. Age has softened and blunted him, but there is steel at his core still, and muscle beneath the fat. Like his body, his face is well fleshed, with full lips and a broad flat nose. Harwa was not considered a particularly handsome man, even in his younger years. A beard hides most of his chin and jowls, it is normally scruffy and unkempt, much like his hair. The eyes that look out of this worn and craggy face are dark brown, warm, glinting with humour... at least, that's what they look like most of the time. Sometimes there is another man looking out from that kindly old face, one with eyes colder than a desert night. One who has the eyes of a killer. Harwa dresses slovenly, in brightly coloured but much patched and repaired garb. It is the motley uniform of the Tariqa Al-Shahadh, the Order of the Mendicants. Holy warriors of Sharaqan, they distain all property and instead live by begging, they are recognisable by their brightly coloured patched robes, sewn from many different coloured rags. His armour, made of overlapping plates of bronze scales, is dull and tarnished, though still servable enough to offer Harwa protection. ____________________________________________________________________________ P E R S O N A L I T Y Philosophers and scholars of the world are in frequent disagreement as to the fundamental nature of man. According to one camp, humans are savage beings, violent animals whom are only tamed through the application of civilisation and society. To others, hatred and cruelty are traits that we are taught by the harsh realties of the world, and our truer nature is that of the innocent guileless child, fundamentally good. Harwa is inclined to agrees with the latter, and his greatest fear is that the former are correct. He believes that there is no one that is not worth saving. That there is grace in every person, no matter what they have done. That redemption can always be earned. In his person, Harwa is kind and gregarious. Always willing to share despite having very little himself, and equally open to receiving hospitality with graciousness and enthusiasm. Despite the somewhat ascetic nature of his order, he has an immense appetite and enjoyment of the physical pleasures of life, in particular food and drink. For a supposed beggar warrior, Harwa eats rather well. He is pious, without being dogmatic or taking himself and his faith too seriously. His lively sense of humour frequently makes pointed jokes at his own expense, and when Harwa laughs, he laughs loudly and deeply. He is a loud person in general, from his bright multicoloured garments, to his deep and booming voice and outgoing personality. It is rare that he is raised to anger, but should it occur, it is a terrible sight to behold. ____________________________________________________________________________ B A C K S T O R Y For all the loudness about Harwa Ahmestep, there is one thing he is more definitely quiet about - his past. There are some things however, that would be evident to anyone who had the opportunity to observe him for a decent length of time. Firstly, he speaks Tawrish like a native and has a noticeable accent when switches to Equarish or Urkun. It can easily be assumed that he was born there, or at least grew up in the lands of the Maatrho God-Kings. Though his familiarity with the diverse languages of Dahard imply that he has some familiarity with the region, despite only being recently arrived. Secondly, he clearly does not share the faith of his country men, for he is of the Tariqa Al-Shahadh, the Order of the Mendicants. They are beggar warriors, sworn to protect those in need and live off of the charity of others. And they do not subscribe to the cult of the Maatrho, instead they follow the teachings of Sharaq and worship the Great Father Arhanphast. If you were ask Harwa how a Tawran native came to live in the service of a foreign God, he would be more than happy to tell you. The faith of Sharaq came to him at the lowest point in his life, when he had lived a bad and selfish existence that had led him to nothing but ruin and misery. He had been saved by a holy man who saw something good in him still, and had given him a new life though he himself had no worldly goods of his own. Ever since he had been inspired to live by such an example. It is a good story, and Harwa has gotten better at telling it with each recounting. The truth of these events are now distorted to the point it no longer hurts to tell. If you got to know Harwa a little better still, you might catch glimpses of the painful past behind that well worn story. He lets them slip sometimes, normally late at night when he's had a drink and his thoughts turn sombre and a little melancholic. He was married once, back in Tawr. They had a farm and a family. They grew fields of cotton and grain, raised goats and girls. All his children were daughters, he still smiles ruefully when he thinks of them. At first they were happy, but it did not last. He drank, too much and too often, and back in those days Harwa was much more... violent... when he drank. It all ended badly. Before that he was a soldier. It's evident enough by his martial prowess, even at his advanced age. He still carries himself like one, even though its been years since he wore that uniform. Years since he hid his face behind that bronze mask. But for all your prying, you would not get him to talk about it, despite his normally gregarious nature. Speaking of it makes him remember. And he does not want to remember what he did. ____________________________________________________________________________ M O T I V A T I O N A N D O U T L O O K Harwa is drawn to Dahard to do as he had been trying to do since he left his old lives behind and joined the Tariqa Al-Shahadh. He is desperately trying to atone. And he feels that Dahard is the place where he can best do this. ____________________________________________________________________________ M I S C E L L A N E O U S Harwa's Holy Order, the Tariqa Al-Shahadh, although a martial organisation focused on fighting and combat, distains the taking of life unnecessarily. Its members are sworn to try and resolve all disputes peacefully before resorting to violence, and only kill in defence of one's own life or the lives of others. The one exception to this is in the use of the Shafrat Alrahma, the mercy blade, which a warrior may use to end the suffering of a mortally wounded opponent, as a final mark of respect.

I can PM you a more detailed biography if you would like it @Shu

@Kassarock

Fully approved!

As for added details, share such if you wish, but secrets can only add depth to a character which makes them more intriguing. ;D