Ronda

A true legend of Velyzar’s famous arenas, Ronda was destined for martial mastery from early life. Born to a minor Banner Lord house in Kaerok with lands bordering the dangerous Durham Forest, great things were expected of her, and before she had even learned to read or write, Ronda began her training in the art of war, sparring alongside her seven brothers. Lavish banquets and lessons in high society had no place in Ronda’s life — hers was to be an endless proving ground, training alongside the other warriors of her father’s house. The first glimpse into Ronda’s true potential came, when at fifteen, she persuaded her father to let her compete in one of his tournaments. Despite being disarmed during a melee, Ronda defeated four knights and news of her triumph spread quickly throughout Kaerok. Soon after, Ronda entered the service of a local baron, acting as her lord’s protector, champion, and a settler of disputes. Tales spread far and wide of Ronda’s victories, and patrons from Kaerok and beyond flooded her baron’s court to catch a glimpse of this mighty fighter. So formidable was Ronda’s reputation that the king of Kaerok himself employed her as his champion, and as the years passed, her fame and fortune blossomed. It wasn’t long before fighting for others bored Ronda, however. With nobody left in Kaerok to truly test her, there was only one path remaining that appeared open to her. Arrayed in golden armor and with a sash of her house’s colors girt about her waist, Ronda ventured to the Arena City of Velyzar. There, she quickly rose through the ranks to become a living legend among the city’s countless gladiators. Ronda fought with her bare hands, overwhelming opponents by exploiting their weaknesses, choking them into submission, and wearing them down with her unrivaled stamina. Whether she fought monstrous Demonspawn, stout Dwarves, or lithe Elven sorcerers, no adversary was beyond her. After years of climbing through the rankings, she was crowned the Queen of the Arena, earning herself the coveted Belt of Victory. Such achievements alone were not enough for Ronda, who endlessly sought new mountains to climb, and new enemies to conquer. Leaving Velyzar, Ronda began a pilgrimage, hunting down greater and greater foes. Tales of Ronda’s wanderings vary depending on the teller, but it is claimed that Ronda once killed a dragon with her bare hands, that she destroyed a giant knight of pure flame with a single punch, and has even held Siroth himself by the throat. What is true is that, far and wide, people hail her as a savior from brutes and monsters. While the tales are hazy, Ronda’s greatness is beyond all doubt. Word of her exploits even reached the ears of the Arbiter herself, who asked for her aid. For Ronda, there was no greater honor than to become a Champion of the Arbiter, which she continues to be, fighting not for glory or fame, but for the protection of all Teleria from the horrors that threaten it.