Sikkara | The Tortoasis

**Context Note:** *Sikkara is a high fantasy desert setting loosely inspired by ancient Egypt and based upon several real-world deserts.*

**The Tortoases, in General.** One of the largest and greatest beasts of Sikkara is the tortoasis, a chelonian elemental of the Worm Wastes. Growing to nearly two hundred meters in diameter at full maturity, these creatures are the only known predator of the hammerhead worm, capable both of withstanding their powerful strikes and biting deep gouges into the worms’ writhing masses.

**Gods of the Wastes.** Sporting magical oases of lush foliage and flowing clean water upon their shells, the tortoasis are home to villages of the reclusive Hataraji—the nomadic hobgoblins of the Worm Wastes. To the Hataraji, the tortoases are not simply a useful ally or livestock, but living gods of the desert that sustain their way of life. In this way, every fruit grown and every cup filled upon their shells is a reminder of the tangible power of their gods, and the Hataraji will defend them to a man from any who would seek to abuse them.

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**Note:** *Any comments, questions, critiques, or thoughts are welcome. Thanks for reading!*