Shikari
Category: Monster Hunters, Enhanced Warriors
Region(s): Global, with strongholds in Alrussia, Ilmaria, and the Dread Frontier
Type: Genetically-Altered Combatants
The Shikari are an elite and secretive class of monster hunters in Fera, bred, trained, and altered through ancient rites and alchemical processes to become the apex predators of the world. Designed to fight the unnatural, Shikari are faster, stronger, and more resilient than ordinary mortals, with enhanced senses and reflexes honed for combat against magical beasts, corrupted entities, and eldritch horrors.
Initiates undergo brutal trials, including a dangerous mutagenic process known as The Crucible, which few survive. Those who do emerge as something more, and something less, than human. Shikari often possess yellow or silvered eyes, faded scars, and an unnatural stillness that marks them as outsiders even among the common folk they protect.
Most belong to one of several ancient Orders, each with its own emblem, philosophy, and specialization. These orders train their Shikari in both swordplay and sorcery, alchemical use, tracking, and monster lore. Despite their importance, many Shikari are feared by the populace due to their mutations, perceived coldness, and the grim nature of their work.
Though diminished in number after centuries of war and purges, the Shikari remain a vital; if controversial, force in Fera. In isolated villages, dark ruins, or far-flung battlefields, when nightmares rise, it is the Shikari who answer the call.