MAAT TRUTH-SEEKER
Desert ScholarsJudge and Truth Mage
"Truth is not always justice. My duty is to find the truth. What you do with it is your responsibility.""
Identity
- Residence
- Hall of Judgment in Al-Zahra
- Civilization
- Desert Scholars
Appearance
• Physical: Severe and imposing, with sharp features and eyes that seem to see through lies. She never smiles. • Clothing: Robes of pure white that never stain, a heavy pendant bearing the scales of justice, and a headdress that covers her hair. • Distinguishing Marks: A scar on her palm from a truth-seeking ritual gone wrong; her eyes briefly glow when someone lies near her.
Relationships
- Family - None; her family was executed based on false testimony
- Allies - Other judges who respect her integrity, the few she has exonerated
- Rivals - Criminals she has convicted, corrupt officials she has exposed
Personality
- Traits: Uncompromising in pursuit of truth, deeply fair despite her severity, haunted by difficult decisions, surprisingly compassionate to the truly innocent
- Mannerisms: Places her hand on her heart when hearing testimony; never blinks when someone is speaking
- Voice: Clear and commanding, with a tone that brooks no argument
Backstory
Maat was a victim of a false accusation that destroyed her family. She devoted her life to ensuring no innocent would suffer as she did. Her truth-seeking magic is the most powerful in generations, though it takes a toll on her health. She has never been wrong in thirty years of judgment.
Daily Life
Hears cases from dawn to dusk, using her magic to determine truth. Evenings are spent writing detailed judgments and meditating on difficult decisions. She has no personal life, having devoted everything to her duty.
Secret
Her magic is slowly killing her, and she has perhaps a year to live. She has told no one and works harder than ever to clear as many cases as possible.
Story Hooks
- 1 She needs help finding a way to preserve her knowledge and methods before she dies.
- 2 She has discovered evidence of a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of government but needs proof her magic can't provide.
Narrative Value
Provides legal authority and truth-determination services. Her condition creates urgency and emotional stakes. ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════