Arcatia Koldana

A solitary and mysterious figure Arcatia Koldana was often called the Beastmaster of Shrel-Kain on the strength of his arcane knowledge of the raising and training of exotic animals. The use of specially trained war dogs on some of the border patrols is attributed to the skill of Arcatia, and his close friendship with the Realm-master. The Beastmaster was undoubtedly attracted to Galgorin by tales spreading throughout the commercial network of Dorwinion regarding Galgorin s troubles with rampant wolves]. This fact alone made him extremely unpopular with Gollo Wansutt. Actually, Arcatia had come in response to a letter from Julia Marcartio. The two had never met, but Arcatia's reputation was widespread and Julia believed his skills would be useful. Arcatia would keep himself anonymous as long as possible for both these reasons. Secrecy was be difficult because of Arcatia's two prized traveling companions. One was an enormous and almost Mannishly intelligent White Wolf known as Rolm. Rolm was every inch of seven feet in length and stood almost four feet at the shoulder. The other was a huge, tawny brown Grass Cat with amber eyes and a constantly swishing, four-foot tail, who answered to Svelm. The creatures were devoted to Arcatia and fully trained. They followed him unless ordered otherwise. Although the beasts appeared formidable, they were not usually dangerous unless their Master was threatened or ordered them to attack. Both would defend themselves without being commanded. For this trip, the beasts were Arcatia's senses and guides in the shadowy world of lycanthropy. The Galgorins were not likely to appreciate the value of the animals. In the context of the current panic, Arcatia's companions caused hysterical reactions wherever they appeared. The Beastmaster realized this an attempted to keep their presence secret for as long as he could. Arcatia was tall, slim, athletic, and very attractive. He was personable, but not overly talkative. He downplayed the nature and capabilities of Rolm and Svelm. Dressed simply in leather armor and a worn, hooded traveling cloak, he did not appear to be unusual.