From his earliest memories, Naikal was surrounded by tales of the shodeth, the elite warriors sworn to protect their community from external threats and defend the secrets of their subterranean haven. His parents, both skilled artisans, instilled in him a sense of pride in their heritage and a deep understanding of the values of perseverance and honor.

Growing up in Xirklx, Naikal felt an irresistible pull toward the path of a warrior. His childhood was marked by playtime battles with his friends, wielding makeshift weapons fashioned from sticks, his imagination filled with visions of heroism and valor. By the time he was old enough to join the warrior ranks, he was physically and mentally prepared, driven by an unrelenting desire to join the ranks of the shodeth.

At age ten, Naikal was formally taken under the wing of Hosh, a revered shodeth master known for his indomitable spirit and exceptional combat skills. Hosh recognized Naikal’s innate talent and dedication, and he became a demanding mentor, pushing Naikal to exceed his limits. Under Hosh’s guidance, Naikal absorbed the teachings of swordsmanship, strategy, and the importance of unwavering loyalty to the skeva people and their protective traditions.

All eyes went to the skeva’s head, still lying on the ground amongst them. Naikal kneeled, holding a moss lantern closer to examine it. The fur about the dead warrior’s ears was ashen, and the pink of his ears faded to a similar gray. Even his nose had lost its pinkish color. “I have seen my share of the dead,” Naikal said, “and what I see here is not entirely natural.” The skeva stood. “I believe our chieftain speaks the truth.”

- THE INVERSION SOLUTION

Naikal’s standing within the Shodeth grew stronger as the years went by. He became known for his agility, sharp instincts, and keen intellect in battle. The training sessions with Hosh, intense and grueling, often involved sparring matches and exercises that refined both his physical skills and mental fortitude. Naikal learned the value of discipline, focus, and teamwork, becoming a trusted brother-in-arms to his fellow warriors.

Hosh taught Naikal the art of combat and emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong moral compass. Strategy sessions often included discussions on the ethics of warfare, positioning Naikal as a warrior who would fight not just for victory but for the principles that defined the skeva way of life. Naikal learned to respect his opponents, understanding that true strength and honor lay not in blind aggression but in wisdom and restraint.

As a fully-fledged member of the shodeth, Naikal has dedicated his life to serving the people of Xirklx. He has been involved in the city’s defense, participating in skirmishes against intruders and protecting the sacred grounds of their underground sanctuary. His sense of duty is powerful, fueled by a deep love for his community and a desire to uphold the shodeth legacy.

FIRST APPEARANCE

Naikal first appears in The Inversion Solution (The Alchemancer Book Three).