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 |