The Eight

Country: The Esh Republic

Population: 25-50

Primary Races: Malkari. Very rarely are others allowed to train here, although it has happened in the past.

Ruling Body: The Eight are the ruling masters of this monastery/dojo.

Description: The Eight is a small monastery located in The Hush. Titled after the eight masters who always reside there, it is the highest achievement someone can achieve to become accepted and train here. Each master teaches a specific weapon or style, although most of them are proficient in many forms of martial arts.

The grounds are surrounded by a ring of sacred stones. Inside the stone ring is a modest size building which hosts those who live here. There are a series of training grounds and a series of gardens located outside. Everything here is done in moderation and outsiders are at best tolerated. No one from the outside stays for a prolonged period.

Notable Inns:

The Sacred Ground – Sign consists of a sun rising over a bed. Run by the local monks, The Sacred Ground is located here solely to provide shelter to those in need. There is no alcohol to be had and meals are provided only as part of the room. Any roughhousing is considered extremely disrespectful and will cause those involved to be sent on their way. People do not stay here long, and are usually either passing through or extremely curious.

Notable Locations:

The Gardens – Located within the main grounds are a series of gardens. The food grown here is to provide the students and masters with only enough to feed themselves. They are maintained as part of the training.

The Shrine of Bako – The statue, believed to be the incarnation of Bako on the mortal plane, sits in the center of the monastery. Those who practice the arts often travel here to pay their respects.

The Training Grounds – Open to the public to view, the training grounds are the closest thing to a spectacle available at The Eight. The greatest martial arts in the world can be seen taking place within this small area.