Poth was born in the city of Xirklx, a hidden underground town located beneath the human city of Brighton. Poth’s early life was steeped in the traditions of his clan, where survival meant mastering the art of foraging and stealth. From a young age, the young skeva exhibited an unusual talent for wielding a blade, a rarity among his peers. While many shodeth warriors relied on brute strength and clever traps, Poth’s grace and precision in combat set him apart. Each night, in the secluded shadows of mushroom groves, he practiced with a makeshift blade, unaware that fate was crafting a grander destiny for him.
During his adolescence, Poth witnessed a brutal skirmish between his people and a rival clan over control of fertile farming areas within their domain. This conflict ignited his passion for protection and justice. Captivated by the dance of chaos and valor, he vowed to master the blade and shield his community from such threats. His relentless training garnered the attention of Ratna, the commander of the shodeth, who recognized the potential within the young warrior.
“I visited the pyromancer, “ Poth said. “He was not pleased with our field test, but he told me everything proceeds on schedule. The remainder of the devices will be ready on time.”
His report concluded, Poth bowed and started to withdraw. His leader’s voice stopped him.
“How may I further serve?” Poth asked.
Poth was one of their youngest warriors, but efficient beyond his years with a blade and one of the stealthiest. Rachna often selected him for the most clandestine of missions.
“Acharat leaves for the surface,” Rachna said. “Intercept him.”
- THE NULLIFICATION ENGINE
Under Ratna’s mentorship, Poth learned the dual arts of combat and survival. He trained not only in using his blade but also in community defense strategies, understanding the vital link between their way of life and the land they fought to protect. In a defining moment, Poth led a small scouting party to reclaim a critical stretch of farmland consumed by a predatory faction. His insight and agility allowed the group to navigate the treacherous terrain of mushroom groves and enemy traps, returning triumphant with a wealth of agricultural resources. This success marked his initiation into the shodeth, an elite warrior caste dedicated to protecting their unique and thriving ecosystem.
However, Poth’s rapid ascent within the ranks brought challenges, particularly from older warriors who resented his rise and questioned his worthiness. Determined to prove himself, he undertook numerous missions, each time returning with accolades that bolstered morale and united the shodeth. Despite the pressures of his newfound role, Poth remains humble and dedicated to Rachna in all things.
FIRST APPEARANCE
Poth first appears in The Nullification Engine (The Alchemancer Book Two).
