Keshig Riders

The Keshig are elite horseback warriors and a core military force in the Khanarok Empire. Serving the Great Khagan with unwavering loyalty, they ride as one with their steeds, known for their deadly precision, exceptional discipline, and mastery of open-field warfare. Whether storming through desert winds or galloping across the steppes, their presence signals authority—and often, victory.   To be born a Keshig is to be shaped for the saddle and the spear, molded by a tradition older than empires and driven by a fierce pride in clan, command, and conquest.

Origin

  • You were raised in the military tradition of the Khanarok Empire, training from a young age in horseback warfare.
  • Your people live by the code of the saddle, proud riders whose lives are bound to tribe, loyalty, and honor.

Core Traits Overview

Ability Scores
Feat
Skill Proficiencies
Tool Proficiencies
Dexterity
Savage Attacker
Acrobatics
Leatherworker’s Tools or Smith’s Tools
Wisdom
Perception
Constitution

Languages

  • Common
  • One tribal dialect or language from the Khanarok steppes

Equipment

Choose one:
  • Option A: Fur cap with ear flaps (optional), lengthy silk undershirt with wide sleeves, double-breasted knee-length coat (deel or degel), outer garments of silk or golden cotton, riding boots, tribe insignia, dice, composite bow, and 10 gp
  • Option B: 50 gp

Background Feat

  • Savage Attacker: Once per turn when you roll damage for a melee weapon attack, you can reroll the weapon’s damage dice and use either total.

Feature: Born to Ride

  • You have an excellent memory for maps and terrain. You can recall the layout of terrain, settlements, and natural features with ease.
  • You can find food and fresh water for yourself and up to five others each day, provided the land offers resources like small game, wild plants, or water.
  • You are at home in open spaces, gaining advantage on Wisdom (Animal Handling) checks made while riding or tending to mounts.

Suggested Characteristics

Personality Trait (d6)
Ideal (d6)
Bond (d6)
Flaw (d6)
Immense courage and tenacity on the battlefield
Respect for Elders – Wisdom deserves reverence
My family is everything
I answer challenges with violence
Deep connection to nature through shamanism
Warrior Code – Bravery is the highest virtue
My tribe’s honor is mine to protect
I show no sympathy for the weak
Adaptability to the shifting wilds of The Tear
Ancestor Veneration – The dead guide the living
I work for fair resource sharing
Recklessness overshadows wisdom
Offers hospitality without hesitation
Zealotry – Conviction sharpens the blade
I defend those who can’t defend themselves
My pride blinds me
Highly self-reliant from a nomadic upbringing
Spiritual Resilience – Shamanic rites protect the soul
I would die for my comrades-in-arms
I scorn non-warriors
Solves problems through practical action
Pride in the Nation – Loyalty to tribe and land above all
I must ensure my line continues
I crave fame more than peace