Lok

Lok was a pivotal and steadfast member of the legendary adventuring group known as The Cleansing Wave. Best known for his unwavering loyalty, formidable combat skills, and deep devotion to Bella, Lok stood as a crucial protector and companion throughout The Cleansing Wave's decades-long struggle to liberate the land of Khurabil from tyrannical forces. He is often depicted as Bella's inseparable partner, bearing the brunt of many dangers to safeguard her and their cause.

Biography

Early Life and The Cleansing Wave

Details regarding Lok's early life are not explicitly recorded, but his entry into the historical narrative is marked by his fateful meeting with Bella. He met Bella in 2684, forming the initial partnership that would lay the groundwork for The Cleansing Wave. Their bond was profound, described as so close that "not the smallest bee could fly twixt their hearts," and a love that, though perhaps unrequited, was undeniable.

In 2685, Lok and Bella were joined by Brak, and later that same year, Glade completed the core group of four. The Cleansing Wave was fully formed by 2687 with the addition of Melody, becoming a "sparkling shape of five sides." Before their arrival in Khurabil, Lok fought alongside his companions for several years, striving for the freedom of the people in the Dryft Empire.

Campaigns in Khurabil

Lok arrived in the region that would become Khurabil with The Cleansing Wave in 2688. He was consistently by Bella's side, leading charges and serving as a formidable warrior. His significant contributions include:

• Liberation of the Kaelen Peninsula (2688): Lok and the Cleansing Wave were instrumental in freeing much of the Kaelen Peninsula from warlords, helping to secure safe passages for rescued peoples.
• Fall of The House of Night (2688): This battle near what is now Battervold highlights Lok's dedication. When the Black Dragon, Nullatrix (the Night Terror), ambushed their camp and severely injured Bella, Lok "stood between the great dark dragon and fallen, injured Bella." He took "the full wrath of the Dragon upon himself," protecting Bella and engaging the fearsome wyrm directly. Ultimately, with Bella by his side, Lok was credited with removing the "great Wyrm's head," ending Nullatrix's reign.
• Routing of Orcs (2689): He participated in the expulsion of Orcs from central Khurabil.
• Defeat of The Sylvan Plague (2690): Lok was part of the combined forces that ambushed and slew the Green Dragon, Mervygrus (The Sylvan Plague), alongside Bella's group and Bruno's Vanguard, liberating a vast forest and its inhabitants.
• Pushing Back Giants (2691): He helped drive giants back to the south and west of the Earthspine Mountains, bolstering dwarven and gnomish strongholds.
• The Coldest Winter and Loss of Melody (2691): Lok was present during the tragic encounter with Bikorreth, a powerful White Dragon, in a snowy mountain pass, which resulted in Melody's death. Lok's profound grief was evident, and he explicitly forbade any stories from being told about that day, stating, "There is no story in this. No brave tale. Shape no parable. I would never hear of this day again."
• Slaying Bikorreth (2691): Despite the immense pain of Melody's loss, Lok and the remaining members of The Cleansing Wave later sought out and slew Bikorreth.

Role and Personality

Lok was consistently portrayed as courageous and resolute. His primary motivation often appeared to be the protection and well-being of Bella, whom he followed "so far and so long." He possessed a mind for practical matters, often considering logistics and planning, as seen in his efforts to secure a home for The Cleansing Wave. He was also capable of immense tenderness, as evidenced by his efforts to bring Bella comfort by camping in her favorite spot.

Personal Life and Later Years

• "Bella's Home": In 2690, a safe refuge was established. By 2692, Lok took the initiative to plan and begin construction of a permanent home for The Cleansing Wave on the northern shore of Bellaku within the Dunkelgrun Region, Bella's favorite place. He meticulously paced out foundations and judged sizes, insisting it be called "Bella's home." This became a hub for a growing, prosperous community.
• Founding of Steinwark (2693): Lok, along with Brak, conceived of and helped build the strong fortress of Steinwark (originally Stone Bulwark), a bastion against forces of evil.
• Departure from Belhaim (2722): Following Bella's death in 2722, Lok's deep grief led him to leave Belhaim. He appointed Jenna Haimer as his advocate, marking a significant shift in his role and the nature of The Cleansing Wave's collective endeavors. He essentially disappears from history at this point.