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The Wastelands are a scorched and desolate land where water is difficult to find and plant-life is less common. Some believe the Wastelands to be a scourge and punishment; an affliction for the sins and mankind.

In these lands dwell, and thrive, a race of Elves known as the Sardakk. Within this brutal, inhospitable region the Sardakk Elves have forged a sanctuary by the shedding of much blood and loss of life . . . Sardakahn Citadel.

Within this brutal region stalk horrors, shunned and avoided by those of the Living World. When all other races have succumbed to the power and terror of the Wastelands, Sardakk Elves have thrived and prospered.

Recommended level: 31+

Excerpt from Sekali, "The Sister City":

Sekali and six others stood motionless upon one of many pinnacles of blackened stone protruding from the earth near Sardakahn Citadel, scanning the landscape for any signs of movement. Each grimly focused their attention out into the ominous sea of creeping shadow that drifted across the twisted, wounded earth below, wary and suspicious -- ready for battle.

Of the seven, six were clad in master crafted krannik-steel platemail, stained black to match the region itself, weapons drawn as if expecting sudden attack. At the top of the pinnacle stood Mahkaia, a powerful witch who had served her people for more than twelve centuries. Her dark eyes glittered with a faint illumination as she probed the landscape before her, a staff of ash-black wood in one hand.

The ancient pinnacle of stone upon which the seven stood was fashioned ornately with a spiral stairway that snaked upwards about the large formation of rock. Seven flat surfaces with waist-high borders of rock, were sculpted within the stone at various levels as a defense for each member of The Watch. Mahkaia, who was their leader, stood upon the top-most platform, in plain view of those below her.

Leading into the pinnacle from every platform were a series of large tunnels which branched off in six directions, each leading to every other platform. Crafted in this manner, all members of the team had access to every other section of the pinnacle should any member of the team need assistance. The tunnels provided security, as well as a place to store food, water, tools and medical supplies.

The authorities of Sardakahn were in the deciding stages of constructing a tunnel between each pinnacle to a point just within the walls of Sardakahn. Such a modification would allow for an escape back into the citadel if needed. Such tunnels would also open up more areas from which an enemy could attack, should one or more Watch fail. The pinnacle he stood upon was one of many surrounding his city. Such a plan was unwise.

Sekali felt honored to perform The Watch, to protect those of his kin within the stronghold of stone his forefathers had forged from the Wastelands long ago. There were other pinnacles encircling the entire stronghold, manned in like manner, always with one caster among six others. Those few who steeped themselves into arcanian mystery, to unveil powers to wield against the enemies of Sardakahn, proved invaluable in battle against both the creatures of the Wastelands and the relentless, unmerciful hand of nature itself, the latter of which challenged them more often than fang and talon.

There were three circles of The Watch surrounding Sardakahn Citadel: The inner, or third circle, closest to the stronghold, the second circle, and then the outer first. The first circle was manned only by those judged worthy to stand against the most terrible foes. One who consistently demonstrated stability and strength upon the third circle, would eventually be granted promotion to the second. After a time, if the second circle of The Watch was kept successfully, one would be gifted with the honor of the first. Those who manned the outermost circle were unified, and the strongest of all who aspired to the station of The Watch.

He and the others were positioned so that any time Mahkaia would move, even in the slightest, they would notice. Like living statues, the seven bent their iron wills upon the shadowy environment before them, silent as the pinnacle they stood upon.

In this land, nature was as much a danger as the horrors which threatened the security of the people. Fire could suddenly fall from the heavens above, the earth could abruptly gape open wide, swallowing those not quick enough to evacuate the area, as well as many other lethal phenomenon.

As he kept an eye upon Mahkaia, Sekali slowly ran a thumb across the edge of his blade, peering now and again out into the mists of fine ash which constantly filtered down through the stagnant air. Slowly, he raised a hand to secure the finely woven cloth mask that covered all but his eyes, making sure it was secure.

As he looked into the mists before him, Sekali's thoughts turned to Mahkaia, whom he had taken to spending time with. They had become more than the friends they once were, and their time together had been the instrument of forging a strong relationship, which he valued above all the combined treasures of the world.

He had not set his mind upon her for more than a moment, when a red glow filled the ashen sky above, giving the imminent sign of impending danger. Looking up, he witnessed hundreds of areas within the vapors above come to life, like fires springing forth, burning hot, as if a dragon had set the sky on fire. Abruptly, the distinct sound of firefall was heard hissing from overhead as streaks of red began to trail downward, plummeting like small burning comets to the earth.

Ignoring the deadly rain of fire, he stood and turned toward Sardakahn Citadel, raising the tip of his blade high as he focused his attention upon the pinnacle of the Second Watch, barely visible through the mists, upon which he could see seven others signaling likewise in the direction of the Third Watch, veiled from his vision. Elemental Magicians within Sardakahn Citadel would soon cast powerful wards to shield all within the city, giving people the needed time to retreat into prepared places of safety.

As he heard the soft chant of Mahkaia’s voice, Sekali knew they would be shielded from the uncanny storm soon to strike the area with searing effects.

Blazing ash falling from the skies was not the only danger firefall created, for with nearly every occurrence, unsheltered creatures would be forced to scramble for cover, or perish. As alarming as this was, creatures fleeing for cover were not the highest of his concerns. The native predators of the Wastelands, ones which were not affected by firefall, the most deadly of all predators, would suddenly be on the move -- they would instinctively hunt and scavenge the carcasses of the unlucky.

He scanned the area before him, his heart increasing in pace, feeling the effects of adrenaline begin to course through him. As he suspected, this time was no exception, for as streams of burning ash hissed down from the heavens, striking the conjured spell-shield above, Mahkaia pointed outward in silence, signaling a danger.

Shifting his gaze in the direction she pointed, Sekali witnessed a long snakelike form moving in great haste directly toward them, yet half obscured within the mists. As it neared, he began to see it more clearly, noticing its intentions were only to secure shelter from the storm.

It was an Ashen Serpent, one of the more common predators, but deadly nonetheless. If the rending jaws of this reptile fiend did not kill its prey quickly, its venom well could, for its kiss would claim the life of a creature ten times again its mass within a short time if not quickly treated by a skilled Healer.

As one, they quickly sheathed their blades and readied their bows, each knocking an arrow, waiting until the creature was close enough to gain the best shot. As it neared the base of the pinnacle, they loosed their arrows, all of which penetrated deep into the reptile’s scaly hide, striking true. As the arrows struck their target, Mahkaia threw out a hand, fingers spread wide, even as the Ashen Serpent recoiled back in shock, screaming in sudden pain and rage.

“Shrakka!” Mahkaia cried, her voice filled with sudden wrath. With a blinding flash, lightning instantly leapt from her palm, creating a jagged arc through the trails of firefall, ripping into the Ashen Serpent’s scaly hide, an instant crack of deafening thunder following.

Sekali staggered, bracing himself as the air about the pinnacle shook with the harnessed energy of the elements Mahkaia wielded. As the thunder rolled away, he heard the witch chanting. Throwing her a quick glance, to make sure she was safe, Sekali witnessed the dark witch's eyes, glittering like two emeralds filled with a power he did not understand.

Gripping the stone before him with one hand, he secured his balance, just before a shock-wave tore away from the base of the pinnacle in all directions, violently flinging the large serpent into a cluster of jagged stones not far out, a number of its bones loudly snapping upon impact.

Spastically, the Ashen Serpent began thrashing about in the throes of death as firefall cascaded down upon it, quickly ending the conflict.

Knocking another arrow, Sekali scanned for more danger as Mahkaia staggered slightly. Sprinting up the steps of the pinnacle, the nearest Warrior leapt to her side, offering a welcomed arm. As the seven focused on the area about them, Sekali could hear the serpent exhale its last quivering breath, and saw Mahkaia peering out into the storm, her jaded eyes glinting with a power all the witches of Sardakahn harbor. Even so, as powerful as Mahkaia was, the exertion of the spell, combined with the intense heat of the storm, taxed her energy more quickly than usual. After a moment of tense waiting, Mahkaia removed her hand, throwing her Warrior a look of gratitude, nodding slightly.

As he hastily returned to his station, Mahkaia began moving her fingers in intricate patterns and whispering strange, yet familiar words. Though Sekali did not know the exact meaning of each word uttered, he did know what would follow when they ceased. Being exposed to uttered spells time and time again did give him the advantage of knowing what would ensue once the chanting ceased.

Sekali listened to the unnatural tone, mingling within her voice that, even after being exposed to for so long, still unnerved him. The way she spoke, so usually calm and enchanting, would abruptly change in times like these, evolving into something strange and hair-raising. Then, just as quickly, Mahkaia would diminish, becoming her charming self once again. Strange, the Witches of Sardakahn . . . so very strange.

Within moments, a welcomed coolness settled down upon them, bringing relief from the oppressive heat of the storm pounding down upon the spell-shield above. The serpent was dead, and this time, like few others, no other dangers approached the pinnacle.

However, off to his right, a heavy tremor shook the ground, signifying another Watch was yet being put to the test. As Sekali continued observing the area, he kept his attention upon Mahkaia, in case she gave the command to aid them. At times the dangers encountered were terrible, compelling one Watch to call upon another for assistance. After a few moments, Mahkaia shook her head once, a silent indication that they would hold their position. It seemed the other seven had their situation under control.

Waiting for the fiery storm to pass, they continued scanning the area in silence as molten ash impacted the spell-shield, creating an impressive display above them. After a time, the storm diminished and then ceased altogether, leaving the Wasteland floor gleaming with the embers of its passing.

Author's Notes:

For a brief history of this people, see: "Sardakk Elf".

I'll not go into great detail on this as I am currently editing the 2nd book in the Sekali series, which gives a greater detail of the Wastelands, The Sardakk Elves and their detailed history (no spoilers).

The Sekali series was created strictly from notes taken during actual role-play (Guardians of Utaemia). It was a captivating and fun adventure. I was not the Game Master on this journey, and so was free to take in-depth notes as Travis, a genius Game Master and good friend of mine, took all of us on an journey I will never forget. Thank you Travis! Can't wait to do another . . .