HotB Suaven: The Bloody Wolf

On the eve of St. Valentine’s Day… well, I should have put up the Sacred Harlot for Feb. 14th, but since I haven’t, let’s put up the Bloody One instead.

Falvren Dyr, The Bloody Wolf
“I don’t need your help, Bloody One! Stay out of the way!” – Typical prayer to Falvren Dyr

Falvren Dyr (dire) appears as a large man with flowing red hair. His armor shines like the sun, his blade carved from the moon. On his shield is the head of the Darkness, a creature he slew in personal combat. His body seems to be made of scars.

Born of both the Wolf and Bear Blood, Dyr adopted the virtues of both families and the vices. He was cold, distant, calculating and ruthless. On the other hand, he was cold, distant, calculating and ruthless. He led Shanri’s last army, nearly claiming the title of Emperor before he was defeated by his sister… with a cup of poison. His body fell still and appeared to die, but he was saved by his faithful lieutenant Severin. Eventually, Severin gained revenge for his fallen lord and the Bloody Wolf fell into Solace.

Dyr’s followers espouse a life of self-reliance. Dyr despises those who petition him with prayer. Rather, he blesses those who survive on their own wits, cunning, and strength. Dyr only drops his hand to protect those who show courage and prowess in battle; he never assists those who ask for it. A shuaven who doesn’t like being relied upon, worshiped by those who don’t like relying on anyone. It’s a perfect fit.

Gifts
Praying to Falvren Dyr is always a tricky task; he despises those who ask for help and rely on others for strength. Therefore, “prayers” to the Lord of Battle sound more like curses and boasts than petitions of humility. Below are listed some of the most common Secrets Dyr has taught his followers… even though they never bothered to ask or dare give him thanks.

Battle Cunning
During initiative, you may look at one opponent’s initiative bid before you bid dice yourself.

Recklessness is My Ally
Pick one opponent during initiative. Before you attack, you may deduct dice from your own pool to force your opponent to deduct dice from his defense pool.

Master Parry
If the Hero has any weapon in his hand (including an improvised one), he can cancel four effect from any roll to hit made against him.

Two-Weapons
Your Hero has gained enough skill with a weapon that he may employ one in each hand. This grants him two bonus dice in combat.

Slash
You may make two attacks in a row.