Aakir Ekel

The Falcon of Sitrul

## Overview

**Aakir Ekel**, the **Falcon of Sitrul**, is a seasoned Vafiri Warrior renowned for his combat prowess and extensive knowledge of the wilderness. Despite nearing retirement, Aakir remains a humble and approachable figure, always eager to share his wisdom with others. Raised in the rugged region of Sitrul, he developed a deep connection with nature and the stories of legendary adventurers, inspiring him to embark on his own journeys. Throughout his adventuring career, he tackled numerous quests, formed lasting friendships, and earned his reputation as the Falcon of Sitrul.

Now, in the twilight of his adventures, Aakir has chosen to pass on his knowledge by running a training camp for aspiring adventurers. His main motivation is to protect and preserve the natural world, and he believes that skilled individuals are essential for this task. Aakir's legacy as a skilled fighter and his commitment to teaching others make him a revered figure among adventurers and a symbol of hope for the preservation of the wilderness.

## **Description**

### **Appearance**

Aakir Ekel is a weathered and battle-worn Vafiri Human, standing at an imposing 6 feet tall. His toned and rugged physique bears the marks of countless battles and treks through unforgiving wilderness. He has a well-groomed salt-and-pepper beard that accentuates the wisdom in his eyes. Aakir's piercing amber eyes seem to hold both the serenity of one who has seen much and the fierce determination of a warrior who will never back down. His short, tousled dreadlock hair is a dark shade of brown, often hidden beneath a hooded cloak adorned with feathers, reminiscent of the falcons he so dearly admires.

### **Personality**

Aakir Ekel is a calm and wise individual with a gentle disposition that belies his formidable combat skills. He carries himself with a sense of humility, always eager to learn from others and share his vast knowledge of the wilderness with those who seek it. Despite his numerous accolades and the respect he commands among fellow adventurers, he remains approachable and friendly, willing to lend a hand to those in need.

## **Biography**

### **Background**

Aakir was born into a humble Vafiri household, where his father worked as a fishmonger and his mother as a seamstress. As the eldest of four siblings, Aakir grew up cherishing his family's fishing traditions, spending his days helping catch various marine treasures, from salmon and trout to crabs and lobsters. His curiosity and adventurous spirit led him to dive into the depths of the sea, where he not only discovered fascinating fish but also occasional treasures hidden on the seabed. However, Aakir's interests remained confined to the familiar world of Sitrul, and he never felt a strong urge to explore beyond its borders.

Everything changed when Aakir turned twenty-one. On a seemingly routine fishing day, his father set out early to catch the day's haul but tragically never returned. The family's fishing boat, broken and battered, drifted back into port without him. Fearing the worst, Aakir took it upon himself to investigate the matter. He dove into the waters where they usually fished, hoping to find some trace of his father. Amid the depths, he stumbled upon his father's bag and a treasured pin badge, which confirmed his worst fears. Aakir knew something malicious had caused his father's death and vowed to seek justice.

In his quest for answers and revenge, Aakir spent weeks tracking down the creature responsible for his father's demise. Finally, he confronted a menacing shark, which he harpooned and hauled back to port as proof of his victory and closure for his family.

Soon after, Aakir's path crossed with a man named Draxis Firme, who represented the White Falcons. Draxis recognized Aakir's potential and offered him a position within their guild as a mercenary. Eager for new experiences and seeking to venture beyond the confines of Sitrul, Aakir accepted the offer and embraced the life of a mercenary. In this role, he took on diverse and challenging assignments, serving both humble peasants and powerful nobles, even undertaking tasks for kings and emperors. Despite his success with the White Falcons, Aakir's moral compass led him to uncover unsettling truths about the guild's involvement in money laundering. Disgusted by their unethical practices, he decided to sever ties with the organization.

### **Mercenary Contracts with the White Falcons:**

Despite the White Falcons' tarnished reputation, the experiences Aakir gained from his time with them were not all for naught. His tenure with the mercenary guild refined his combat skills and exposed him to various combat scenarios, allowing him to adapt to unpredictable situations on the battlefield. While the White Falcons' motives were not always noble, Aakir learned the art of negotiation, espionage, and strategic planning, skills that proved invaluable in his future endeavors. When the call for mercenaries came, Aakir couldn't resist the lure of adventure beyond the borders of Sitrul. The thrill of embarking on new missions and witnessing distant landscapes enticed him to take up contracts from peasants, nobles, kings, and emperors alike. As he traveled far and wide, Aakir encountered diverse cultures and encountered challenges that tested his mettle.

* **Marauding Wyverns:** A small village on the outskirts of Sitrul was under constant threat from a group of aggressive wyverns that terrorized their livestock and destroyed their crops. Aakir was hired to lead a team of skilled archers and fighters to neutralize the wyvern threat and establish a perimeter of protection around the village.
* **A Lost Artifact:** A wealthy noble commissioned Aakir to retrieve a long-lost artifact from a remote ancient temple in a dense jungle. The temple was rumored to be guarded by treacherous traps and formidable guardians, but the prize was said to possess immense power.
* **A Noble's Missing Heirloom:** A valuable family heirloom was stolen from a noble's mansion during a grand ball. Aakir was hired to investigate the theft and recover the precious item discreetly. He had to navigate through the intricacies of the noble court while uncovering the identities of the cunning thieves responsible.
* **Curse of the Castle Vasindes:** Rumors spread of a cursed castle deep within a dark forests, haunting a nearby village. The desperate villagers sought Aakir's aid to delve into the castle's dark secrets, lift the curse, and put the malevolent spirits to rest.
* **Great Dragon Hunt:** A powerful dragon had taken residence near a mining town, causing fear and disrupting the town's operations. The townspeople pooled their resources to hire Aakir and a team of seasoned adventurers to challenge the dragon and reclaim their lands.
* **Rescue from the Labyrinth:** A group of travelers had gone missing in a mysterious labyrinth rumored to be guarded by otherworldly creatures. Aakir accepted the contract to venture into the labyrinth's depths, battling twisted denizens and solving the maze's riddles to rescue the trapped travelers.
* **Mercenary's Redemption:** Aakir was approached by a rogue mercenary seeking redemption for a dark past. The mercenary wished to turn a new leaf by protecting a group of villagers from a band of ruthless bandits. Aakir agreed to mentor and guide the mercenary on their path to redemption, making the journey as much about self-discovery as it was about safeguarding the village.

Each contract presented unique challenges, offering Aakir the chance to showcase his combat prowess, problem-solving abilities, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of those he served. Whether it was fighting mythical beasts, solving mysteries, or mediating conflicts, Aakir approached each contract with a sense of duty and an unyielding spirit of adventure.

From foiling bandit raids to leading armies against marauding invaders, he embraced his role as a defender of the weak and the oppressed. Aakir's reputation as the Falcon of Sitrul spread far and wide, and his actions spoke louder than any title or accolade. Yet, amidst the tumultuous life of a mercenary, Aakir never lost sight of his moral compass. He would often intervene to prevent needless bloodshed or protect innocent lives, even if it meant forgoing lucrative contracts. This unwavering dedication to his principles earned him both admirers and adversaries, but he remained steadfast in his resolve. Though the road was fraught with peril and the temptation of wealth and power beckoned, Aakir remained true to his values. He continued to seek redemption for his past and grow as a person, forging his path as a noble guardian of nature, an embodiment of the Falcon of Sitrul.

Seeking a new path that aligned with his principles and love for exploration, Aakir joined the Adventurer's Guild in Sitrul.

### **Aakir's Time with the Adventurer's Guild:**

After parting ways with the White Falcons due to their involvement in unethical practices, Aakir Ekel found solace and purpose within the ranks of the Adventurer's Guild in Sitrul. Joining the guild was a pivotal moment in his life, opening a new chapter in his adventurous journey.

As a member of the Adventurer's Guild, Aakir flourished in an environment where his skills and experiences were highly valued. He quickly formed bonds with like-minded individuals who shared his passion for exploration and reverence for nature. The guild's diverse members hailed from different corners of the world, offering Aakir a unique opportunity to learn from their cultures and experiences. Under the guidance of seasoned adventurers and mentors within the guild, Aakir further honed his combat techniques and survival skills. He embraced the guild's core values of camaraderie, respect for the environment, and the pursuit of knowledge. Aakir's storytelling prowess and the tales of his legendary escapades earned him a reputation among his fellow adventurers, solidifying his status as the Falcon of Sitrul.

During his time with the Adventurer's Guild, Aakir embarked on a myriad of quests, each more thrilling than the last. He led expeditions to uncharted territories, delving into ancient ruins, and unraveling long-lost mysteries. Whether it was rescuing endangered creatures, uncovering forgotten artifacts, or protecting vulnerable communities from marauding beasts, Aakir approached each challenge with a mix of courage, wisdom, and humility. But his most cherished moments came from sharing these adventures with his newfound friends. From the laughter around the campfire to the poignant reflections after a hard-fought victory, Aakir found a sense of belonging he had never experienced before. His experiences with the Adventurer's Guild not only deepened his bond with nature but also taught him the true value of community and the strength that comes from standing united.

Through his extraordinary journey from the shores of Sitrul to the vast expanse of the world, Aakir Ekel evolved from a simple fisherman's son to a wise and experienced Falcon, carrying the weight of his past while embracing the thrill of the unknown that lay ahead.

### **Aakir's Time as the Rikari of Sitrul:**

Many years later Aakir was appointed the Rikari of Sitrul and it's surrounding area he had many duties a few of which are described below:

Protection of Sitrul: Aakir's primary duty was the protection of the town of Sitrul the surrounding area and its inhabitants. He became the first line of defense against any threats that loomed on the horizon, be it natural disasters, marauding bandits, or fearsome desert beasts.

Training the Town Guard: Aakir took it upon himself to train and mentor the members of the town guard, sharing his combat expertise and survival skills. This training not only made the guard more formidable but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and loyalty among its members.

Collaboration with the Captain: Aakir worked closely with the captain of the town guard, Captain Selene, a steadfast and experienced leader. Their partnership was marked by mutual respect and a shared commitment to Sitrul's safety. Together, they developed strategies and tactics to respond to various threats.

Other duties:

Warding Off Desert Beasts: Aakir's knowledge of the desert and its creatures proved invaluable. He successfully warded off attacks by giant sand scorpions and venomous desert serpents, keeping the town safe from these deadly threats. His expertise in tracking and hunting made him adept at neutralizing these dangers before they reached Sitrul.

Bandit Raids: Aakir and the town guard thwarted numerous bandit raids on Sitrul's outskirts. His keen strategic mind and the guard's improved combat skills allowed them to defend the town's resources and keep its trade routes secure. The legend of the Falcon of Sitrul striking fear into the hearts of bandits became well-known across the desert.

Rescue Missions: Aakir also led daring rescue missions into the desert to save travelers and traders who had become lost or stranded in sandstorms. His knowledge of the terrain and his ability to navigate the treacherous desert played a pivotal role in these successful rescues.

Diplomacy with Desert Tribes: Aakir's journeys often brought him into contact with nomadic desert tribes. Through diplomacy and negotiation, he forged alliances and trade agreements with these tribes, ensuring the town's access to vital resources like water, food, and information.

## **Relationships**

##### Family:

* Elara Ekel: Aakir's supportive and nurturing mother, who ran a tailor shop in Sitrul. She encouraged his adventurous spirit and continues to be a source of strength for him.
* Rona Ekel: Aakir's younger sister, who shares his love for the sea and dreams of becoming a marine biologist. They have a close bond and support each other's aspirations.
* Joran Ekel: Aakir's younger brother, who admires his elder brother's adventurous life. Joran is skilled in cartography and dreams of creating detailed maps of Aakir's explorations.
* Kalden Ekel: Aakir's wise and seasoned grandfather, a legendary warrior in his prime. He would share tales of valor and wisdom, imparting valuable combat and survival insights to Aakir.
* Selene Ildra: Aakir's adventurous and free-spirited aunt, who roams the world as a skilled ranger. She shares her knowledge of tracking and wilderness survival with Aakir, inspiring his love for nature.
* Thoren Ildra: Selene's son and Aakir's friendly rival within the Adventurer's Guild. Thoren deeply respects Aakir and sees him as a mentor, despite their playful competition.
* Harkin Vyre: Aakir's father's brother, a seasoned ship captain, and adventurer. Harkin's mysterious and adventurous aura has inspired Aakir's wanderlust for the world beyond Sitrul.

##### Friends and Mentors:

* Draxis Firme: The charismatic figure who recruited Aakir into the White Falcons as a mercenary. Draxis recognized Aakir's potential and kickstarted his adventures beyond Sitrul, though their paths diverged due to Draxis' guild's unethical practices.
* Adventurer's Guild Members: Aakir found his true home within the Adventurer's Guild in Sitrul. He built lasting friendships with fellow members, exchanging stories and experiences while exploring the world together.
* Aakir's relationships with family, friends, and mentors have played a pivotal role in shaping his character and career as the Falcon of Sitrul. Their support, guidance, and shared experiences have provided him with the strength and knowledge needed to tackle the challenges of the wild and inspire the next generation of adventurers.

## **Character information**

### **Notable items**

Weapons:

* Falcon's Wing: Aakir's prized possession, a masterfully crafted scimitar with a hilt adorned with intricate falcon motifs. It serves as his primary weapon, and its keen edge and balanced weight make it deadly in combat.
* Aakir's Longbow: Aakir's trusty bow, capable of firing powerful and accurate shots over great distances. The bow is crafted from durable materials, and Aakir always keeps a quiver of arrows on hand.

Armor:

* Falcon's Crest Plate: Aakir's custom-made armor set, reinforced with steel and designed for mobility and protection. The chest plate bears an emblem of a falcon in flight, signifying his title as the Falcon of Sitrul.
* Wildheart Leather Bracers: Leather bracers adorned with nature-themed engravings. They provide extra protection to his forearms without sacrificing agility.
* Feather-Light Boots: Boots designed for swift movement and reduced noise, allowing Aakir to navigate silently through the wilderness and evade enemies when needed.

Equipment:

* Falcon's Gaze Hooded Cloak: Aakir's signature cloak, adorned with falcon feathers and enchanted to provide camouflage in natural environments. It also offers protection against the elements.
* Explorer's Satchel: A durable and spacious satchel where Aakir keeps his essential belongings, such as maps, compasses, ropes, climbing gear, and a small journal to record his adventures.
* Alchemist's Kit: A compact set of vials, herbs, and tools for brewing potions and concoctions. Aakir uses this kit to create healing salves, antidotes, and other beneficial mixtures for his travels.
* Survival Gear: Aakir carries a range of survival equipment, including flint and tinder for starting fires, a waterskin, and a mess kit for cooking food during his expeditions.
* Trophy Collection: Aakir keeps various mementos from his adventures, such as rare animal pelts, dragon scales, and other unique items that serve as tokens of his triumphs.
* Falcon Companion: Aakir has a loyal falcon companion named Skye, trained in reconnaissance and carrying messages. Skye often perches on Aakir's forearm or travels alongside him during his journeys.
* Compass of the Wild: A magical compass that never fails to point Aakir in the direction of the nearest natural water source or the safest path through uncharted territory.

Aakir's inventory reflects his preparedness for the dangers of the wild and the various challenges he faces as the Falcon of Sitrul. Each piece of equipment holds sentimental value and practical use, aiding him in his adventures and guiding him through the untamed wilderness.

### **Abilities**

* Combat Superiority: As a Battle Master Fighter, Aakir is a master of combat maneuvers. He has learned various battle techniques and can use his Combat Superiority to perform maneuvers during combat. These maneuvers include:
	+ Precision Attack: Aakir can expend a Combat Superiority die to add to his attack roll, ensuring his strikes find their mark with accuracy.
	+ Riposte: When an enemy misses him in melee combat, Aakir can use his reaction and expend a Combat Superiority die to make a counterattack, dealing extra damage.
	+ Sweeping Attack: Aakir can expend a Combat Superiority die to deal damage to a second creature within reach after he hits his initial target.
	+ Trip Attack: By expending a Combat Superiority die, Aakir can attempt to trip his target, causing them to fall prone and potentially leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks.

* Indomitable: As a seasoned fighter, Aakir has an indomitable will. He can reroll a saving throw he fails, choosing the better result, and he can do this multiple times per day.
* Second Wind: Aakir can draw on his inner strength to heal himself during a fight. Once per short rest, he can use a bonus action to regain hit points equal to his Fighter level plus his Constitution modifier.
* Action Surge: Aakir can push his limits in battle with an Action Surge. Once per short rest, he can take an additional action on top of his regular action and possible bonus action in a single turn.
* Extra Attack: As a Battle Master Fighter, Aakir has honed his martial skills, allowing him to make two attacks instead of one whenever he takes the Attack action on his turn.
* Weapon Specialization: Aakir's extensive training with weapons grants him proficiency with a wide range of martial weaponry. He can wield a variety of weapons effectively, from swords and axes to bows and spears.
* Parry: Aakir's combat experience enables him to use his reaction to reduce incoming damage. When an enemy hits him with a melee attack, he can expend a Combat Superiority die to reduce the damage he takes.
* Know Your Enemy: Aakir's years of adventuring and combat have given him a keen eye for assessing opponents. He can use an action to study a creature's abilities and weaknesses, gaining insights that can aid him in combat.
* Evasive Footwork: Aakir can use his Combat Superiority dice to bolster his defenses. By expending a die, he can add the result to his AC temporarily, making him harder to hit during a particular turn.

As a Battle Master Fighter, Aakir Ekel's abilities showcase his tactical prowess, adaptability in combat, and mastery of various maneuvers. His skills in weapon specialization and combat tactics, along with his unique maneuvers, make him a formidable force on the battlefield and a reliable leader for those who fight alongside him.

## **Quotations**

"A true fighter doesn't just wield a sword; they wield the wisdom of experience and the courage to face the unknown." - *Aakir speaks his philosophy on being a warrior.*

"Behind every scar lies a lesson, and within every lesson, lies the strength to overcome." - *Aakir discusses his scar with a curious bystander.*

"Nature is a master storyteller, and I am but a humble scribe, eager to share the tales of her majestic wonders." - *Aakir reveals how he feels about his place in the world.*