The Avrat Vastarem
Overview
The Avrat Vastarem, more commonly known as Dune Striders, are made up of groups of four to ten Soulborn who were found to have the Blessing of the Dawn's Rejuvenation (Adventurers). These men and women patrol the vast territories of Tiriath, assisting the many small villages, towns, and nomadic communities along their route. Though some Avrat Vastarem squads are assigned to cities, these units tend to be made up of the families and friends of that city's local nobility and influential merchants. Dune Striders are the front line problem-solvers for the countless Tiriathi clans that live outside kingdom's few large cities. Humanoid raids, monster attacks, trouble with the local Song, and nearby Thinnies that allow strange creatures into the area, are among the many problems the Dune Striders may be asked to help with during their patrols.Rank and Structure
Avrat Vastarem squads are typically led by a Goliath of one of the many Dust Clans, but not always. This Vastarem Framandar (Patrol Captain) will always choose a Padhuban (Patrol Lieutenant) that will be his second. The rest of the team holds equal rank below that. These squads are typically overseen by a Marzban (Regional Leader) of one of the Dust Clans.Benefits of Service
Those who serve among the Dune Striders are typically given tremendous respect by the Vasatrya (Commoners), Beretya (Citizens), Azatya (Nobles), and Local Law Enforcement. However, this is not always the case. In some communities, they may be seen as Kingdom spies or interlopers. Serving as a Dune Strider is a sure, though often dangerous, path to full Tiriathi citizenship (Beretya). This status can also be gained by serving time in any of the Kingdom's military forces, mastering a craft, serving as a religious figure, or performing some tremendous deed that Dust Clan leadership recognizes. This status as a Beretya (Citizen) over a Vasatrya (Commoner) grants the individual additional rights to hold titles, land, businesses, and vast wealth. Many of these paths are very difficult for those born outside the Kingdom, but serving as a Dune Strider for at least four years always grants this boon. Leadership among the Dust Clans is almost exclusively made up of individuals who have served in Avrat Vastarem. These squads outrank the law enforcement of all but the most powerful of cities. However, they must still follow the rulings of any local Azatya (Nobility) or leader if working within a community. Of course, this can be bypassed in extreme situations, but as the Dust Clans oversee the Avrat Vastarem, the Vastarem Framandar (Patrol Captain) of a squad using these measures better be able to prove a good cause.Those Who Serve
They can be from any walk of life and have a variety of skillsets. The groups are chosen by Dust Clan leadership for their ability to complement one another's skills and personalities that should work well together. Many of these groups go on to become Heroes of the Kingdom. However, almost one in eight of these patrol teams are wiped out in the performance of their duties. Those among the Dune Striders who betray the Kingdom of Tiriath invoke the wrath of the Dust Clans and rarely live long.Badges of Service
Avrat Vastarem squads are recognized by bracelets or medallions they wear. These badges are made of silver, depicting an Asp snake coiled around a shield. At the center of these badges is a small gem tuned to an individual and will glow upon command for only that individual. Bringing back one of these badges from a fallen Dune Strider member to the Dust Clans is considered an honorable service. Being caught forging or stealing these items carries a penalty of death.
Type
Military Order
Alternative Names
Dune Striders
Ruling Organization
Leader Title
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