Tark: The Lord of Combat

Tark is the greatest in strength and deeds of prowess, and is called the Valiant. He came last to the earth, but was first into battle with Tirzaan. He delights in wrestling and contests of strength, and has no need for any steed, for he can outrun all things that go on feet, save his sister. His hair and beard are golden, and his flesh is ruddy, and his weapons are his hands. He is of no help as a counselor, for he cares not for either the past or the future, but he is a hardy and loyal friend. He laughs ever in sport or war, even during the Rending he laughed in the face of Tirzaan. He is boisterous and loves feasting as much as fighting, and often his Sylvar mix both. His halls are full of warriors feasting and battling for eternity. Wrestling is his delight, but he loves all contests of strength and bravery, and though he uses no weapons but his fists he is the patron of all warriors, and those who are brave in life may pass from the Silent Halls to his mighty feast where they can battle for eternity.   Tark is one of the most popular of the Great Ones, worshipped by all soldiers and those who revel in contests of strength. He has temples in every major city, and shrines in every barracks. His temples are not only places of worship but places of battle. Worshippers will wrestle and spar with each other rather than perform normal acts of meditation and prayer. Priests and caretakers are most often retired warriors and contestants, and wear blood red cloaks emblazoned with the thunderbolt symbol. They are often called on by cities before battle to bless the troops and to pray that those who fall will find their way to their Lord’s hall.