Thasunta

Rashemi normally disdain folk who live in cities, even other Rashemi, but for the men and women of Thasunta (population 2,150), they make an exception. The people of this town have a reputation as fierce berserkers—an exaggeration, but the locals do little to dispel the myth. Even non-berserkers pretend to fly into a rage when they fight.

Most of the time, Thasunta is a stopping point along the Golden Way and a mercantile center for nearby farmers and ranchers, but in times of war, its true purpose comes to the fore. A fierce horde of hundreds of experienced berserkers can be mustered here at the call of the Witches or the Iron Lord. Many times have the berserkers of Thasunta answered this call, as the town lies along Thay’s primary invasion route. The barbarians also played an important part in the war against the Tuigan Horde, holding the enemy long enough to give their allies time to circle around and attack from the rear. Now that the Thayans seem to be pursuing ends other than overt conquest, there is talk among the townsfolk of mounting raids against the savage humanoid tribes and other monsters in the High Country.

The Iron Lord has traditionally left the governing of Thasunta to the leaders of the berserker lodges, in particular the Old Lodge—a brotherhood reserved for the wisest and most experienced warriors. A berserker must master the fighting techniques of no fewer than three other lodges before being considered for membership in the Old Lodge. Currently, the Master of the Old Lodge is Jhorrgel the Black (CN male human Bbn20). For someone so fierce in battle, Jhorrgel is a surprisingly patient and perceptive leader.