Soot

Soot

## Backstory:

Soot's backstory is one rooted in the harsh and unforgiving environments of Tornok's north desert, known as The Savage Badlands. Born into a tribe of lizardfolk in this arid region, Soot faced the challenges of survival from an early age. His tribe, known as the Sandscale Clan, had thrived in these harsh conditions for generations, adapting to the scorching heat and arid landscapes.

From his youth, Soot exhibited exceptional physical prowess and a natural affinity for combat. His lizardfolk heritage bestowed upon him strength, agility, and a keen sense of awareness, making him a formidable warrior even among his own people. The Sandscale Clan's way of life revolved around the hunt, and Soot quickly became one of their most skilled hunters and trackers.

As Soot matured, he developed a fascination with the creatures of The Savage Badlands, particularly the massive monitor lizards that roamed the desert. He observed these reptiles closely, learning their behaviors and adapting their techniques into his own combat style. Soot's connection with the monitor lizards grew to the point where he could communicate with them, forming an unusual bond with these creatures.

The turning point in Soot's life came when a rival tribe, the Scorchclaw Marauders, encroached upon the Sandscale Clan's territory, seeking control of the valuable desert oases and trade routes. Faced with an impending conflict, Soot's leadership within the clan became essential. He used his combat skills and deep knowledge of The Savage Badlands to rally his people in defense of their homeland.

The ensuing battle was fierce and brutal, with Soot at the forefront, battling alongside his fellow lizardfolk. However, despite their valiant efforts, the Sandscale Clan faced overwhelming odds. It was during this dire moment that Soot's unique connection with the monitor lizards revealed its true potential.

With a primal roar, Soot called upon the monitor lizards of The Savage Badlands to aid his tribe. These massive reptiles, guided by Soot's commands, charged into the fray, turning the tide of battle. The Scorchclaw Marauders were driven back, defeated by the unexpected alliance between the Sandscale Clan and the monitor lizards.

Soot's heroic actions during the battle earned him the respect and admiration of his tribe, and he was hailed as a champion and protector of the Sandscale Clan. However, the victory came at a cost, with many casualties among the lizardfolk.

In the aftermath of the conflict, Soot realized that his destiny was intertwined with a larger purpose. He felt a calling to use his combat skills and his unique bond with the monitor lizards to protect not only his tribe but also others who faced threats in the shadows. It was then that he received an invitation from the Society of the Obsidian Knife, a secretive assassin guild with a mission to maintain the balance of power in Zonia.

Seeing this as an opportunity to expand his horizons and protect his people in a different way, Soot accepted the invitation and became a member of the Society. His transformation into a formidable assassin, combined with his deep connection to the monitor lizards, made him a valuable asset to the guild. Soot's loyalty to his lizardfolk heritage and his commitment to safeguarding his homeland remained unwavering, even as he embarked on a new path within the Society of the Obsidian Knife.

## Appearance:

Soot's imposing appearance reflects his lizardfolk heritage and the influence of his monitor lizard-like features. Standing at a towering height of 6 feet 8 inches, he commands attention with his formidable presence. His muscular body is covered in dark green and black scales, which provide both protection and an intimidating appearance.

Soot's typical attire includes traditional Hakama pants, which offer a balance of comfort and mobility, allowing him to move freely during combat. He secures his pants with a thick, sturdy belt that complements his robust physique. Soot's choice of being shirtless emphasizes his reptilian scales, showcasing the natural armor that serves as both protection and a symbol of his lizardfolk heritage.

To complete his look, Soot wears well-padded gloves, providing additional protection and grip during battles. His overall appearance, with the combination of his muscular physique, imposing scales, and traditional clothing, makes Soot a distinctive and fearsome member of the Society of the Obsidian Knife.

## Traits and Personality:

Soot, the lizardfolk assassin from the harsh terrain of The Savage Badlands, possesses a distinctive set of traits and a personality shaped by his challenging upbringing and formidable combat abilities.

1. **Resilient:** Soot's early life in the unforgiving desert landscapes of The Savage Badlands instilled in him a remarkable resilience. He has weathered the harshest of conditions, from scorching heat to sandstorms, and has emerged from numerous battles stronger and more determined.
2. **Fearless:** Soot approaches danger and adversity with a fearless demeanor. Whether facing formidable foes or navigating treacherous terrain, he maintains his composure and confronts challenges head-on. This fearlessness makes him a relentless warrior and an unwavering protector of his tribe and allies.
3. **Loyal:** Soot's loyalty to his lizardfolk heritage and his tribe, the Sandscale Clan, is unshakable. He holds deep reverence for the traditions and customs of his people, and he remains committed to safeguarding their way of life. Soot's loyalty extends to the Society of the Obsidian Knife, where he serves as a dedicated member.
4. **Communicative:** Soot possesses a unique ability to communicate with monitor lizards, forming a bond with these creatures that goes beyond mere control. He can convey his intentions and requests to the monitor lizards, using them as allies and extensions of his own combat prowess.
5. **Observant:** Growing up as a hunter and tracker in The Savage Badlands, Soot has honed his observational skills to a fine point. He pays meticulous attention to details in his surroundings, allowing him to spot hidden threats, track targets, and gather valuable information.
6. **Stoic:** Soot's stoicism is a product of his environment. He rarely shows emotions openly and maintains a composed demeanor even in the face of adversity. This stoic nature serves him well as an assassin, enabling him to remain focused and analytical during missions.
7. **Protective:** As a natural protector, Soot feels a strong sense of responsibility for the well-being of his tribe and those he considers allies. He will go to great lengths to ensure their safety and security, and he regards threats to his people as personal challenges.
8. **Adaptable:** Soot's ability to adapt to changing circumstances is a testament to his survival instincts. He can quickly adjust his strategies and tactics in response to evolving threats or unexpected challenges, making him a versatile and resourceful assassin.
9. **Focused:** When Soot sets his sights on a goal or a target, he exhibits unwavering focus and determination. He is not easily distracted and remains committed to achieving his objectives, whether in combat or on covert missions.
10. **Mysterious:** Soot's reserved nature and enigmatic past contribute to an air of mystery that surrounds him. He rarely divulges personal information or emotions, keeping his thoughts and motivations hidden from others.

In summary, Soot is a resilient, fearless, and loyal lizardfolk assassin with a deep connection to the monitor lizards of The Savage Badlands. His communicative abilities, observational skills, and stoic demeanor make him a formidable warrior and protector, while his adaptability and focus serve him well in the ever-changing world of espionage and covert operations within the Society of the Obsidian Knife.