Sons of Het

The Sons of Het are a militant order of fāris (knights) and guardians of the Duel Arena. They are the most formidable force of combatants in the Al Kharid area and swear their lives to honor Het in battle and sport. Those sentenced to executions for rebellion are sent to the gladiator ring. The Sons themselves are sworn to protect those of the Menaphite faith and uphold the laws written by the prophet, Karuq. The order has recently been reformed, however many of the Sons traditions are lost to time and are still being recovered through excavations in and around the Duel Arena.

They are currently led by a man known as Mikrem.

Becoming a Son
Only orphans can become Sons of Het, due to the strict adherence of leaving behind a former life to serve Het in the Arena or in battle. They are then raised around the Arena, learning the qualities of each distinctive class such as builders, fighters, cooks, and healers. These skills are observed by the most experienced of the Sons, and the class of the initiate is determined based on his/her skill.

At the youngest age of ten, initiates are taught how to fight, learning from the deserts finest champions. Thrown into the arena with scimitar, spear, or axe, they are forced to cut down gladiators. In many cases, the initiates are killed by the gladiators. However, there are many within the organization that cut down gladiators from early ages.

Beliefs and Practices
The Sons of Het believe in the adherence of loyalty and faith in Het, the god of Strength. Their faith is reinforced by Imams who walk among the Arena delivering rites, blessing warriors, or preaching. Many of them preach the teachings of Karuq, who is also revered by the Sons of Het.

When in battle or fighting in the Arena, the sons believe that their enemies are mere sacrifices to the pantheon, given that they strictly fight for the lives of all those who worship the desert deities. However, they have deep respect for the fallen and even say a blessing before and after a fight. Once before the fight begins, to bless both combatants with Het’s strength.

“Het taarel akhar.” 

The final prayer is said once the fight has ended and one of the combatants are defeated. This prayer asks that the soul of the departed be taken to Icthlarin.

“Dhal seik an Icthlarin.”