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= Keeper of the Light = Upon a pale horse he rides, this spark of ancient suns. Ezalor, Keeper of the Light, rides forth from the shattered Primordial harmony to bring the gift of life and light throughout the many corners of the vast universe, while remaining one step ahead from the ancient forces of chaos and darkness. A force of the universe that has grown sentient in the dawn of time, he embodies and identifies himself as the weak nuclear force, a fundamental force that is unique among the others with its transformative capabilities on the subatomic level (compared to the other forces which are attractive and repulsive) as well as the ability to manipulate magic and its very essence.

Biography
Before time even began to flow, the fundamental laws of the universe were all bound together by the great Primordial harmony in the far and upstream Fundamental Plane made by the One we know as. At the dawn of the universe, these inanimate forces gained the gift of sentience and expression through unexplained means. With the capacity to feel and think, the spark of ancient suns came to be known as Ezalor, the Keeper of the Light, and the four Fundamentals were born. Soon after, the Primordial harmony was broken (either by Ezalor with his ability to disrupt harmony or Elder Titan who caused the Schism ) and the sentient Fundamentals were set loose into the many planes of the fragmented world left behind by their creator.

Ezalor frequently mentions that he is on a quest, but the goal of this quest and why he partakes in it is currently unknown. He also claims to originate from a place known as Light's Keep where he also returns to when he dies before riding out once more.

The Spark of Suns
Ezalor created and took on the mantle of the one who brought light to every corner of the universe and keeping darkness and chaos at bay with his powers over light and order, but abandoned this role soon after (likely due to the doggedly chasing after him) leaving it to be taken up by anyone who wishes to continue his work.

But it was under this mantle that Ezalor was in his prime, and he was in his prime when he was still the spark of ancient suns. Wielding a radiant staff, he channeled his powers to create the very first sun in the universe, a sentient and conscious beacon of light that can reproduce through supernova, resulting in an endless cycle of birth and rebirth. The first sun was the primogenitor of every sun and star in the universe, including the likes of and

Although he could give life to conscious stars, he can create lifeforms as well. In the earliest days following his exodus from the Fundamental Plane, Ezalor channeled his power to create a winged horse that inherited his gift, allowing it to aid his work in sparking suns to life.

His work soon came to an end when the Chaos Knight set his sights upon him and chased after his fugitive brother who was said to have defied the first covenant when he escaped the Fundamental Plane. Ezalor was forced to abandon his work in response to the pressing danger at hand and left the mantle with no one around to give it to, until it was taken up by his grandchildren aeons later.

Keeper of the Northlight
Aeons later, Ezalor assumed a cunning disguise in the form of a doddering old man, a true outward embodiment of the fundamental force that is his identity. He has been observed appearing in different guises: a fortune teller, a wizard, and even a sage, but there are none so well documented as his guise of the Keeper of the Northlight.

Legends from the remote frigid villages of the Wailing Mountains speak of a hooded old man who travels in the cold Northern wastes, appearing only to those who have lost their way and when evil or darkness makes its presence known in those lands. Upon a grey stag he rides, bearing the light of the famous North Star that has helped countless travelers to find their way, while banishing evil and darkness when he finds them.

Personality and Mannerisms

 * Ezalor is prone to forgetfulness, but this behavior affects him deeper than what we observe from his physical guise. He is not forgetful because he takes on the form of an old man, but because it's actually an outward expression of the force that he embodies: the weak nuclear force, which is best known for mediating the process of radioactive decay.
 * Decay may be associated with forgetfulness in the elderly, because their capacity for making and retrieving memories often deteriorates (or decays) with age.
 * Hence, Ezalor did not choose to take on the form of an old man, but his guise is a result of him creating a form that bests represents what he truly embodies.
 * Explanations aside, his forgetfulness often gets him into trouble with his kin and even himself.
 * Ezalor is a benevolent and noble being. Even after abandoning his mantle, he still does his best to beat back evil whenever it is found while still helping those who need his gift of light, no matter what form he takes. His voicelines and the way he speaks them has an air of heroism and nobility.
 * Some of Ezalor's voicelines when he meets with allied female heroes show that he is quite flirtatious with females, regardless of their race or species. It's unknown if this is just a gag on him being a perverted old man or an actual aspect of his personality, as none of the women that he directs these lines to acknowledge this and he doesn't even display this behavior in Dota Underlords.

Family
Ezalor is one of the few heroes in Dota 2 that has children of his own. All the stars and suns in the universe are his children, including Phoenix, Dawnbreaker, and her creators, the Children of Light, who are all descendants of the Keeper's first sun. Dawnbreaker is humbled by the presence of her great grandfather but she is also saddened that he did not do anything to save the Children of Light nor did he know about the fates that they chose. She is even furious at him for abandoning his descendants.

The Solar Goddess, a divine figure whom worships, is a dilution of a greater lineage of star progeny (as in the stars and suns themselves) which includes the Dawnbreaker and her creators, the Children of Light. This would imply that the Solar Goddess is also a very distant descendant of Ezalor and his first sun.

Since is the lover of Dawnbreaker, Ezalor would be his great grandfather-in-law. Mars seems to be deeply concerned about how he treated the Children of Light and why he abandoned them.

Ezalor is the younger brother and antithesis to the Chaos Knight, who has been hunting him down ever since the exodus of the Fundamentals from their progenitor realm. Chaos Knight claims that he seeks to destroy all order and creation as well snuff out the Light from every plane of existence but he belies an ulterior motive where he truly seeks to reunite his siblings back into the Fundamental plane.

Like all Fundamentals, they are the children of the Elder Titan. That includes the two omnipresent forces and.

Rivalry
Besides the Chaos Knight, Ezalor has been in some in-fighting with the children of the Schism. Enigma is hostile towards Ezalor, as he embodies the very force that causes a star to collapse on itself and die, turning it into a black hole. In Dota Underlords, Enigma also plans to replace him with, for reasons unknown.

Embodiment
Ezalor is a Fundamental, a fundamental law of the universe that has gained sentient expression at the dawn of the universe's creation. It is currently unknown how Ezalor and his Fundamental brothers managed to become sentient beings, and it's even more mysterious if they got their sentience by themselves or someone/something else. He originates from a higher plane of existence known as the Fundamental Plane where they were once united as one force   in/by the great Primordial harmony, which was either disrupted by Ezalor or shattered by his creator, allowing him to separate from the other ancient forces that he was once bound with.

Like all Fundamentals and their creator, Ezalor is an omnipresent force that exists in all planes at once, allowing him to call upon other versions or aspects of himself to assist each other. Like his brother Chaos Knight who uses it to summon phantasms from other worlds, or Enigma who uses it to summon aspects of himself from other dimensions, Ezalor can utilize this omnipresence to summon a separate spirit to channel his abilities for him.

The Weak Force
Ezalor embodies the weak nuclear force, in contrast to his brother who embodies the strong nuclear force. The weak force is best known for being responsible for several kinds of radioactive decay, one of which is responsible for the nuclear fusion between subatomic particles that causes stars and suns to burn. With this power, Ezalor has sparked the heat of countless stars, lighting up every corner of the universe and gifting the sun's radiance to the distant worlds that find comfort from its rays, while allowing them to go and multiply via supernova to further extend the cycle of life. He also used his force to make sentient lifeforms, such as winged horses that inherit his powers, which means that the weak force can be used to create life as well.

is a rather straightforward ability. Ezalor simply channels a burst of light from his radiant staff and releases it at the right moment to unleash a large wave of light. The internal glow of his staff is said to fill the souls of the innocent with tranquility while relieving them of their pain (likely flowery language that explains Illuminate's healing ability) but the wicked cannot bear the weight of this light.

Ezalor's is a good example of the weak nuclear force being integrated into his gameplay and his lore. By disrupting the so-called "Primordial harmony", Ezalor can cause those with poor constitution to uncontrollably drain their own magical energy. It is unknown if operates under the same lore of the ability that it has replaced (besides being similar in terms of gameplay) since the spell was released without a lore description.

is one of Ezalor's most vague abilities. Lorewise, the skill is said to be Ezalor bestowing his "harmony" (likely referring to the Primordial harmony that's frequently mentioned in Ezalor's lore ) upon others to restore their magical energy. Ezalor mentions chakra, kundalini, and the serpent of illumination when using this ability, but it's not yet known how these concepts relate to his powers.

Just like his first spell, is also a straightforward ability. It is simply a short blast of intense light that may threaten to blind those who look directly towards it.

is an interesting ability, as not only does Ezalor call upon the wisp Ignus Fatuus to aid him, but its lore description states that Ezalor has an uncanny influence over many powerful creatures that are always willing to help him even if he doesn't seem to be familiar with them. Basically, Ezalor can call upon creatures such as wisps to aid him and they will always answer his call, even if he forgets who they are. As for the capabilities of this wisp in the lore, it is currently unknown if we do not take gameplay mechanics into the question.

is yet another one of Ezalor's vague abilities, due to its obscure description. It can be speculated that this ability works similarly to Io's (lorewise) for the two following reasons:
 * These abilities are almost similar to each other in gameplay. Lorewise, Io's ability uses its omnipresence over space and the Seven Planes as well as its ability to teleport to use Relocate, allowing Io to relocate anyone to any point in space while still being with them at their destination, since it is omnipresent.
 * Like Io, Ezalor is omnipresent as he is a Fundamental, who exists across all planes at once. Since they share this trait and possess similar teleportation or planeshifting skills, it may be assumed that Recall is simply Ezalor's version of Relocate that may or may not have any differences.

Lastly is what happens when Ezalor sheds his mortal guise, allowing him to reveal the power that he truly embodies.

Friendships and rivalries
Allies meeting Keeper of the Light Enemies killing Keeper of the Light Enemies dying to Keeper of the Light Others
 * vo_arc_warden_arcwar_ally_02.mp3  The aid of a Fundamental is most welcome.
 * vo_centaur_cent_ally_08.mp3  Keeper, what a strange beast you are.
 * vo_centaur_cent_ally_09.mp3  Keeper, let us run together.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_ally_01.mp3  Ride with me, brother.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_81.mp3  Wow, you're old.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_82.mp3  Keeper of the light... That job sounds... Boring.
 * vo_elder_titan_elder_ally_05.mp3  Great age has dissolved the differences between us, Keeper.
 * vo_enigma_enig_ally_01.mp3  Come, Ezalor. We have endless work to do.
 * vo_enigma_enig_ally_02.mp3  We Fundamentals shall win this day.
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_ally_85.mp3  I kind of wanted to sleep in today, gramps.
 * vo_wisp_ally.mp3  Boop
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_ally_10.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_ally_10.mp3   I like your mount.
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_146.mp3  What kind of example are you setting for the youngsters, Ezalor?
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_147.mp3  Long have I admired your steed, Ezalor.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_79.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_79.mp3   You gotta show me how to do that light trick, Ezalor.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_80.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_80.mp3   Keeper, I was thinking next Thursday would be a good day for my 'fundamental ascension' ceremony, that work for you?
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_85.mp3  You make me laugh, old man. Perhaps you're not as senile as you appear to be.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_86.mp3  Chaos Knight was asking about you. It seems he is quite taken with you.
 * vo_phantom_lancer_plance_ally_05.mp3  You keep the light. We will protect it.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_87.mp3  Feel like some flap-jacks, Ezalor?
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_88.mp3  Going my way pilgrim?
 * vo_rubick_rubick_ally_07.mp3  Illuminate my path, Keeper.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_ally_30.mp3  Before I even knew myself, I felt your headlong flight.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_ally_31.mp3  I've enjoyed watching your journey, Ezalor.
 * vo_arc_warden_arcwar_rival_07.mp3 The last of your light is cast.
 * vo_bristleback_bristle_rival_14.mp3 Die, geezer! And that horse you rode in on!
 * vo_bristleback_bristle_rival_12.mp3 Lights out for you, geezer.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_15.mp3 My antithesis rides no more.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_16.mp3 The Light is lost from this plane.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_17.mp3 Aha, come back, and I shall kill you again.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_18.mp3 I'll see you purged from every plane.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_19.mp3 Your light is snuffed out.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_20.mp3 The light goes out from your eyes.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_21.mp3 Long have I hunted you, Ezalor.
 * vo_chaos_knight_chaknight_rival_22.mp3 The universe has no place for a rogue Fundamental.
 * vo_earth_spirit_earthspi_rival_42.mp3 I enlighten you.
 * vo_elder_titan_elder_rival_14.mp3 That which I divided, returns to Unity.
 * vo_elder_titan_elder_rival_15.mp3 So dies the spark of ancient suns.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_02.mp3 Though you spark suns to shine, you cannot escape me.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_03.mp3 Ezalor, the weak and infirm.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_04.mp3 Your weakness was your undoing.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_05.mp3 Ezalor, your decay is now complete.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_06.mp3 So dies the spark of endless suns.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_07.mp3 You forget yourself, Ezalor.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_08.mp3 Flux you and the horse you rode in on.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_09.mp3 What you bring to life, I shall bring to death.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_13.mp3 So ends another Fundamental.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_16.mp3 A Fundamental dies.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_17.mp3 So dies a Fundamental of the universe.
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_rival_53.mp3  I take extra pleasure in destroying an original.
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_rival_85.mp3  Hey old-timer. The sun sets on everybody. Whether they like it or not.
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_rival_25.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_rival_25.mp3  Never trust a wizard.
 * vo_lina_lina_rival_17.mp3 Got a light?
 * vo_lina_lina_rival_18.mp3 Old.
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_74.mp3  Your brilliance ends in darkness, old man. Just like all the rest...
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_75.mp3  All who came before me must perish!
 * vo_mirana_mir_rival_10.mp3 Sagan has been eyeing your mount all day.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_79.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_79.mp3   Ezalor, you should have used that horse to run.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_80.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_80.mp3   You've had a good run, Old Man. But it's my time now.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_83.mp3  This is where negligence leads, old man.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_84.mp3  So do I keep the light now? Is that how it works?
 * Phoenix_bird_emote_bad.mp3 Chirp!
 * vo_rubick_rubick_rival_16.mp3 No light lasts forever.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_88.mp3  You rode in the wrong rodeo, Ezalor.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_89.mp3  Turns out you're a one-horse talent.
 * vo_spectre_spec_redux_rival_08.mp3 You ride no more.
 * vo_visage_visa_rival_02.mp3 You shall not pass!
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_rival_51.mp3  It brings me no pleasure to extinguish the first light.
 * vo_kunkka_kunk_death_06.mp3 Not the horse latitudes.
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_043.mp3  Ponies! I see ponies! A terrible vision indeed.
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_044.mp3  Trampled falls the hero beneath ethereal hooves.
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_duelhero_22.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_duelhero_22.mp3  Defend your beard!
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_duelhero_28.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_duelhero_28.mp3  I will tear you from your saddle!

Biography
When the world was barely brightened by the gifts of, it existed during a period when morning never came to pass and days were known as nights. In this perpetual state of umbra, creatures of darkness reigned unchallenged over the world. Soon after, the first among the prey of these beasts grew to worship their masters, forging armor and regalia to honor their magnificence. Balanar was one of the few among these masters who were gifted regalia by his prey, signifying that he was a very powerful figure among the creatures of darkness.

But soon these great creatures did not reign unmatched, nor did they have any impunity. They found themselves in conflict with the armies of the Children of Light, who took up the Keeper's mantle in bringing light to every corner of the universe, while having their own goal to purge the cosmos of all creatures of primordial night. One of their heralds, Valora the, came into conflict with these creatures as well.

On the dawn of the First Day, all the night creatures perished. Balanar survived this onslaught due to the sheer amount of darkness residing in his heart that allowed him to sustain himself through daylight (but in a weakened state) leaving him the sole survivor of the event. He now plays the role of the Night Terror, the Boogeyman, punishing those who ignore the tales and warnings of their communities with death, stalking the unwitting and unwary, and striking fear into generations of families and societies with his mere existence.

Fetters of Ra'hul
At some point in time, definitely after the eradication of his kin, Balanar was captured and bound by the Order of Ra'hul with cursed chains that were said to bring his ancient power to heel. Although the Order was initially successful, their prisoner escaped when nighttime fell, restoring the Night Stalker back to full power and allowing him to break free, possibly slaughtering the Order in the process.

Personality and Mannerisms

 * Balanar is a malevolent creature. He seems to relish the role of the Night Terror or Boogeyman that was bestowed upon him by many fearful populaces, even though the Night Stalker simply slays others for their sustenance.
 * Fitting for someone with immense power, Balanar is a lordly being. Before the First Day extinguished his kin, the creatures that he preyed on grew to worship him and fashioned regalia that symbolized his magnificence. He also dislikes others who claim to have more authority or favor over the night or the moon.

Physiology
Balanar is a Strength hero, a powerful embodiment of overwhelming force and great durability. A beast of the night, he relies on his claws and teeth to tear at his enemies. He has a pair of membranous wings that he usually unfolds during nighttime to fly untethered from the ground, allowing him to catch up to his prey should they choose to escape from him.

Powers
Although he is physically powerful, Balanar is no ordinary beast who merely relies on bodily weapons. He possesses a myriad of ancient powers revolving around fear and shadow to cripple his opponents and bring them to heel. This ancient power makes him an eldritch creature, although not as eldritch as the likes of a faerie dragon.

Lore-wise, Balanar's is a surprisingly powerful skill, if not an actual magic spell. The skill involves Balanar creating a vortex that pulls his enemies into the time period when the primordial darkness was still unlit by the First Day. Its description implies that Void may very well be a time travel ability or a form of temporal banishment.

allows Balanar to transmit a vision of his unhinged maw into the minds of his victims, horrifying those he deigns to use this ability on.

is not an actual ability that Balanar has in the lore. It is more of a translation of Balanar being at his strongest during nighttime into a gameplay mechanic.

His ultimate,, allows him to summon darkness to turn day into night or extend the duration of nighttime, at least according to its effects in gameplay.

Besides his gameplay abilities (that somewhat have a connection to the lore) and passive skills, Balanar has some other powers found in his lore. He has the ability to call upon the souls of his perished brethren from the void by using himself as their spiritual focus into the material plane, allowing them to haunt the living.

Friendships and rivalries
Allies meeting Night Stalker
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_121.mp3  We're going to own the night.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_122.mp3  We'll hunt them all down.
 * vo_dawnbreaker_valora_ally_131.mp3  I'm surprised you haven't slithered away to whatever hole you hide in when day breaks.
 * vo_keeper_of_the_light_keep_ally_02.mp3  Well, Night Stalker, the daytime's not as bad as all that, is it?
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_72.mp3  I've followed some of your work, Night Stalker. I'm expecting big things!
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_117.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_117.mp3   I guess you're not useless half the time, Night Stalker. That's pretty good.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_118.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_118.mp3   Do we really have to wait til night to start fighting?
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_125.mp3  Cruelty for the sake of it... I do not approve.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_126.mp3  I did not want to say anything in front of the others, but your breath could use a bit of peppermint... Or something.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_130.mp3  You don't have a kind bone in your body. But that don't mean we can't put something sweet in there.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_ally_38.mp3  Your tastes are timeless, Night Stalker... I expect you'll never change.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_ally_38.mp3  Your tastes are timeless, Night Stalker... I expect you'll never change.

Enemies killing Night Stalker
 * vo_axe_axe_rival_21.mp3 I said good night stalker!
 * vo_bane_bane_rival_01.mp3 I've forgotten more nightmares than you'll ever inspire.
 * vo_bane_bane_rival_02.mp3 In your dreams, Night Stalker!
 * vo_bane_bane_rival_03.mp3 Night Stalker, I remember when you were scared of the dark. Ha aha ha!
 * vo_batrider_bat_rival_16.mp3 Night Stalker, why have wings if you're not gonna fly.
 * vo_broodmother_broo_rival_05.mp3 Night Stalker, that's a face even a mother couldn't love.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_121.mp3  The night is my dominion.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_122.mp3  No one hunts me.
 * vo_dawnbreaker_valora_rival_131.mp3  You lasted longer than most, vermin. But daylight comes.
 * vo_ember_spirit_embr_rival_08.mp3 Night fades before dawn.
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_rival_74.mp3  I take little pleasure in killing such a beautiful creature.
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_rival_127.mp3  My uncle used to tell me bedtime stories about you. Those were some great adventures. Real happy to have killed you.
 * vo_keeper_of_the_light_keep_rival_07.mp3 Night Stalker, welcome to daylight.
 * vo_keeper_of_the_light_keep_rival_08.mp3 Night Stalker, I bring you into the light.
 * vo_keeper_of_the_light_keep_rival_09.mp3 You were as old as the first day, but I am as old as the first light.
 * vo_keeper_of_the_light_keep_rival_10.mp3 Here's light in your eye. Eh heh heh heh.
 * vo_luna_luna_rival_05.mp3 The moon does play favorites, Night Stalker.
 * vo_luna_luna_rival_06.mp3 The moon turns against the Night Stalker.
 * vo_luna_luna_rival_07.mp3 Having a bad night, Stalker?
 * vo_lycan_lycan_rival_17.mp3 The day has eyes. Night, ears. The wolf, teeth.
 * vo_lycan_lycan_rival_28.mp3 Even you should fear the full moon.
 * vo_lycan_lycan_rival_29.mp3 The night needs nobility, not a beastly fairy tale.
 * vo_lycan_lycan_rival_30.mp3 Behold the night's new ruler!
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_98.mp3  Aren't you beautiful? I'll mount your head above the mantle!
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_174.mp3  Fly-by-night, indeed!
 * vo_mirana_mir_rival_15.mp3 Your nights are at an end.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_117.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_117.mp3   I've heard a lot of stories about you. Oh, I guess this is the last one.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_118.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_118.mp3   Mistake me for easy prey, Night Stalker? You're a fairy tale. And I'm a legend.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_123.mp3  Some days I love my job more than others. This is one of those days.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_124.mp3  Day or night. It makes no difference to me!
 * vo_queenofpain_pain_rival_01.mp3 Night Stalker, you aren't the only thing that goes bump in the night.
 * vo_queenofpain_pain_rival_02.mp3 Night Stalker, you're only a little pain.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_130.mp3  Rooster's crowin!
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_131.mp3  Guess it's high noon after all.
 * vo_terrorblade_terr_rival_24.mp3 vo_terrorblade_terr_morph_rival_24.mp3  vo_terrorblade_terr_shards_rival_24.mp3  I stalk all hours, not just the night.
 * vo_ursa_ursa_rival_19.mp3 Cubs! Rest in tranquility: the Night Stalker is no more.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_rival_73.mp3  You must learn to respect your elders.
 * vo_winter_wyvern_winwyv_rival_18.mp3 You only wear your wings when none can see them!

Others
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_063.mp3  Beware the dark that spreads its wings and falls at any hour.

Biography
In the dungeons of Devarque, there was a vengeful wizard imprisoned within its walls and bars. This unnamed wizard shared a cell with a gibbering Oglodi named N'aix, a thief cursed by the Vile Council with longevity, so that its long life in captivity may be as punishing as possible. Such was the longevity that was placed on him, that he could live for many generations of the nobles of Devarque, thus succumbing from old age will never be an escape from the torment that he will receive for the rest of his life.

The thief's mind was broken from the countless cruelties that the nobles of Devarque and their descendants had visited upon him, each method being different from the previous one. But even though his broken mind could not understand why he was being punished, nor could he even fathom the meaning of punishment, the methods of torture were still different from the last, maintained by the wicked creativity of Devarque's nobles and progeny.

Finding a great opportunity for his escape plan, the wizard set his schemes to action. He would weave a spell of Infestation: a spell that will cast the wizard's life-force into a victim's body, allowing him to control N'aix against his own will. After compelling him to attack the guards and set a commotion, he would return to his body and creep out unnoticed. Casting his life-force on the creature, he found his mind caught in a vortex of intense madness that swept away his plans and shattered his will, leaving his consciousness trapped within the creature, or whatever was left of his former identity.

Although the spell failed and even backfired, it did not go to waste at all. The botched spell infused N'aix with the life-force of the wizard and he was jolted back to consciousness from his state of insanity and madness. In the first moments of his reawakening, he managed to comprehend a voice in his head that could only think one thought: To escape.

Thus the Lifestealer was born, a mingling of two wicked minds inhabiting a single vessel. Heeding the thought of escape, Lifestealer cast his mind into the dungeon guards and soldiers, compelling them to break open the locks and cut down their companions, leaving a trail of chaos and bodies for him to feast on. At end of this trail, Lifestealer escaped from the dungeons of Devarque, free to continue its thievery once more: not of gold and possessions, but of the sweet life-force that flows within every living creature.

He wears his broken shackles in plain sight as a reminder that none should hope to contain him, a sick irony that is belied by his physical form: a prison of tortured flesh containing a disembodied consciousness that he only knows as the Master, whom he only pretends to obey.

Vile Augmentations
N'aix once sought an enchanter who could craft a set of vile augmentations to strengthen his twisted body. But his feats and reputation have reached the ears of many people far and wide, and the task of finding an enchanter that would even offer their services to one so evil and insane as N'aix would prove difficult to complete. He finally found a disgraced enchanter's apprentice who had an interest in the darker arts of augmentation. N'aix gave him a commission to craft a set of augmentations for his body, including a set of claw blades and a skeletal backpiece that when opened, revealed a pulsing blob of flesh.

The enchanter's apprentice got to work and managed to forge the requested augmentations and attached them onto N'aix's body, further strengthening his form and twisting his silhouette into something unrecognizable from his previous self. The last piece was a monstrous looking muzzle that was secretly attached with a controlling agent that would allow him to control the Lifestealer after performing a ritual. Attaching the muzzle onto the maw of the Lifestealer then performing the ritual, he realized too late that the controlling agent never bound itself to the muzzle during the ritual–not at all.

Personality and Mannerisms

 * Even though his past identity and memories have been destroyed, N'aix still retains several aspects of himself when he was still an ordinary thief. He dislikes the concepts of imprisonment, purchase, and control;  and is confused when something is given to him freely.
 * The one thought that the wizard gave to N'aix after being trapped in his mind indicates his dislike of control. "To escape" might not mean that the wizard is telling N'aix to escape, but the wizard himself actually wants to escape N'aix's mind. This plea fell on deaf ears (or minds in this context) as he only pretends to obey him.
 * Despite disliking control and being controlled, he seems to be a hypocrite in that regard. His lack of hesitation on using mind control (e.g. ) is an indicator of this.
 * N'aix's newfound powers over the life-force of others have given him a malicious and sadistic personality as a side effect.
 * Already an insane creature himself, N'aix finds nothing disgusting in the awful things that he does to satisfy his wicked needs and desires.

Physiology
Although his broken body would say otherwise, N'aix is a Strength hero, an embodiment of overwhelming force and great durability. He relies on his blood soaked claws to dig into the opponent's flesh and release their essence to him, but he also has a disfigured set of jaws lined with wicked teeth. It should be noted that his longevity might have preserved him in his current state, his skin color remained pristine even after many generations that should have turned him into a rotting, discolored corpse.

With the help of an enchanter's apprentice, N'aix acquired a set of bodily augmentations to further strengthen his form. His augmentations include a skeletal backpiece that opens to reveal a fleshy blob, a pair of metallic claws, and a muzzle that appears to have twisted his visage into a canine-like creature with a long tongue. Without taking the cosmetic's spell effects into consideration, the effects of these augmentations, to what extent do they augment his form and powers, and any new powers that he gained from these items are unknown.

Powers
N'aix got his powers when the wizard inadvertently trapped himself within his mind. Thanks to this chance encounter, he can now control the life-force of others to his liking by wielding the wizard's magics to a greater extent than its original caster.

It's unknown if actually gives N'aix spell immunity or any protection from magic without considering gameplay mechanics, since its lore does not state that anywhere at all. At best, it is simply a state of frenzy and bloodlust that N'aix undergoes during battle, suddenly making him vicious and relentless against his opponents.

is a translation of N'aix's carnivorous appetite and sustenance from life-force into a passive ability. It may be possible that N'aix can leech one's life-force with every strike that he lands on his victim. His ability to deal a percentage of his victim's max health is a gameplay mechanic, however.

Unfortunately, has no written lore to even speculate its capabilities outside of gameplay.

is quite a gruesome ability with some form of ludonarrative dissonance. N'aix rends the flesh from his opponent, which causes them to bleed profusely. The scent of blood then attracts scavengers to finish off the bleeding victim as they share in the victim's life-force, just like how the ability allows his allies to steal life with any attacks and any spells that they inflict on his victim. Lorewise, this wouldn't make any sense as not every hero allied with N'aix is comfortable with stealing his victim's life-force in a rather gruesome method, not to mention that spells being able to steal life-force from a simple wound makes no sense. It may simply be set aside as gameplay mechanics.

is heavily implied to be Infestation, the same spell that the wizard cast on N'aix to control him. But since the wizard has been trapped and absorbed into N'aix's being, he now wields this magic to his own ends. By casting his life-force into an unfortunate victim, he can infest their body and wait inside before bursting in a gory explosion. He may even choose to control his victim from within. In N'aix's biography, he also uses this ability to cast his mind into the dungeon's inhabitants to control them against their will.

Friendships and rivalries
Allies meeting Lifestealer
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_91.mp3  Look I'm not trying to tell you how to live your life. But moisturize.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_92.mp3  Please don't murder me.
 * vo_dawnbreaker_valora_ally_099.mp3  This is one of those cases where it's really hard to tell if this is a person or someone's pet...
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_ally_95.mp3  Get back to me when you learn something 'telligible.
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_61.mp3  Do you even know why we fight, creature?
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_62.mp3  Stick with me and you'll go as far as one of your ill fortune can get.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_89.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_89.mp3   Lifestealer, is that a family name? Or more of an occupation, like haberdasher?
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_90.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_90.mp3   So, you were in prison a long time. Got any good stories?
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_95.mp3  Poor creature. I do not envy what you have become.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_96.mp3  Blink twice if you prefer that I put you out of your misery...
 * vo_slark_slark_ally_08.mp3  Throw off your shackles, friend.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_97.mp3  Where do they dig these guys up?
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_98.mp3  I don't know what your problem is Lifestealer but... Cookie?
 * vo_undying_undying_ally_03.mp3  Take for us, Lifestealer.
 * vo_skeleton_king_wraith_ally_07.mp3  Lifestealer, if you ever feel like serving a different master, let me know.

Enemies killing Lifestealer
 * vo_bloodseeker_blod_rival_01.mp3 Heh, Your blood was a prisoner begging me to set it free.
 * vo_bristleback_bristle_rival_50.mp3 The Oglodi, they don't die easy, I will give em that.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_91.mp3  I'm not ending up like you!
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_92.mp3  Stay away from me!
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_rival_58.mp3  The mindless are of no use to me.
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_rival_95.mp3  Did you see that bloke? There's no way he's not thanking me. And if he's not, he should be.
 * vo_kunkka_kunk_rival_34.mp3 My mast, your master.
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_80.mp3  Hard to bite down with a spear in your gullet!
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_81.mp3  You should thank me, creature. This death brings honor to one I suspect has none!
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_89.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_89.mp3   You were safer in that dungeon, Lifestealer.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_90.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_90.mp3   Your name's 'Lifestealer'? Hohoho! Man, this joke writes itself.
 * vo_omniknight_omni_rival_05.mp3 Lifestealer, I will find what did this to you.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_93.mp3  Why is it always my responsibility to dispatch the grotesques?
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_94.mp3  I did not steal your life. But I certainly did take it.
 * vo_pudge_pud_rival_14.mp3 That's what you get, taking a bite out of my turf.
 * vo_queenofpain_pain_taunt_04.mp3 You can look but don't touch. Come to think of it, don't look either.
 * vo_slark_slark_rival_07.mp3 Oh look, another shackle-dragger.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_98.mp3  Eat lizard chips, toothy! I got plenty to spare.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_99.mp3  I stole one back for the good guys. Well, good-ish.
 * vo_spectre_spec_redux_rival_07.mp3 Your life is stolen.
 * vo_tiny_tiny_rival_01.mp3 I think you bit off more than you can chew, Lifestealer.
 * vo_tiny_tiny_rival_02.mp3 My life is too big to be stolen.
 * vo_undying_undying_rival_12.mp3 vo_undying_undying_big_rival_12.mp3  You steal, we consume.
 * vo_visage_visa_rival_16.mp3 I will unmake your master's work, Lifestealer.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_rival_56.mp3  Your tormented existence comes to a merciful end.

Others
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_049.mp3  Learn to be your own life's master, lest ye be ruled by evil servitude.

Biography
Born from the flesh of a mother Eldwurm and an unknown father, the dragon freak Jakiro hatches from a single egg with two heads, one burning with the rage of the fiery Pyrexae lineage and another freezing with the guile of the icy Pyrexae lineage. Shunned and sometimes hunted by his race for being an anomaly among the wise but fearsome Pyrexae, Jakiro relies on his duality of powers and traits to destroy all manner of beings and creatures who dare to project any hostility towards him.

Jakiro, the Protector
Among the Mer folk, there are tales of a "twin headed demon" that killed a raiding party (save for two survivors) consisting of the finest Slithereen warriors in the waters surrounding the cliffs of Grosche. Their warnings speak of the demon that protected the bluffs of Grosche. When the party of raiders encroached upon the dragon's territory at night, Jakiro's fire head attacked the party, but they managed to find safety within their own element of the sea. However, his frost head froze the invaders atop the waves that should have protected them. The two remaining survivors could only watch as Jakiro's fiery head incinerated the oblivious raiders.

Jakiro once descended into the underground caverns of the Riverwarren to protect its inhabitants during a time of great need. Since that day, his appearance and deeds are always commemorated in the Day of the Pyres where stories and celebrations of their protector are told and held, respectively. As the children grow up, their dreams of the dragon's return fade with time, but one day Jakiro will return to help the people of the caverns once more.

Personality and Mannerisms

 * Jakiro's duality grants him the traits of both Pyrexae heritages. His icy head inherits their wisdom and guile, while his fiery head inherits their rage and ferocity.
 * A trait natural to most fictional dragons, Jakiro is a very territorial creature.
 * Because of this, Jakiro is one of the more noble and protective dragons, something that is quite uncommon in fantasy works. He protects the cliffs of Grosche from invaders and once came to the aid of the people in Riverwarren, who still celebrate his deeds in his absence.
 * As a polycephalic creature, Jakiro's heads treat each other as brothers, with neither of them being the elderly or superior one. They often find themselves unwilling to share and blame each other like siblings. On the positive side, they often compliment each others quips and achievements  and care for each other, regarding themselves as equals.

Family
According to Jakiro, is his cousin. However, Auroth seems to have an animosity towards him, and expresses regret that she didn't kill them before they have hatched. Steve Jaros, the writer of the card game Artifact, confirmed that Auroth is indeed his mother.

Physiology
An interesting detail can be found in Jakiro's right head. The scales on his lower neck resemble that of his mother's, Auroth the Winter Wyvern. It can be speculated that his right head inherited some of Auroth's ice powers alongside the powers of the icy Pyrexae heritage.

Powers
Possessing the full range of abilities found in the Pyrexae dragon species, Jakiro commands the elements of ice and fire just by breathing. His twin headed nature and elemental duality grants him the ability to synergize his naturally incompatible elements to deadly effect.

is a great example of his elemental synergy. Jakiro's frost head initiates the attack with a blast of ice, followed by a wave of fire launched by his fiery head. It would seem that neither elements cancel each other out, allowing its victims to take the full effect of being frozen and burnt at the same time.

is a very simple ability. Jakiro's frost head calls upon the cold element of his Pyrexae lineage to create a trail of ice that freezes anyone caught in its wake.

Yet another simple and straightforward ability, his comes from the fiery head of Jakiro, allowing him to expel a scorching molten substance. It can be speculated that this hot material is the same molten steel found in the guts of Pyrexae who consume even the armor and equipment of slain knights.

His lacks any kind of lore text, but it can be assumed that it works similarly to its fiery counterpart, except for the use of molten steel. Liquid Frost could simply be a cold substance that chills and freezes opponents covered in it.

Although his only shows his flames being used, the lore text for this ability describes that Jakiro combines its frost and flame to decimate the battlefield with extreme temperatures on both high and low ends. This can be seen in the custom effect of his Pyrexaec Forge cosmetic where the cracks on the earth glow blue (presumably his ice powers) while his fire burns on top of it, neither elements being able to cancel each other out.

Friendships and rivalries
Allies meeting Jakiro
 * vo_clinkz_clinkz_rival_15.mp3  Time for a firestorm, Jakiro.
 * vo_clinkz_clinkz_rival_16.mp3  Fire and ice. How nice.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_77.mp3  You ready to have some fun, Jakiro?
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_78.mp3  You know in Revtel, Pyrexae is a great delicacy.
 * vo_dawnbreaker_valora_ally_084.mp3  I think I could get rid of that ice head for you with minimal trouble.
 * vo_ember_spirit_embr_ally_08.mp3  Ah Jakiro: opposites in wondrous harmony.
 * vo_gyrocopter_gyro_ally_03.mp3  Heh hey, it's Jakiro! And Jakiro's copilot.
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_ally_81.mp3  I dunno how you do it. That level of cooperation's beyond me.
 * vo_lina_lina_ally_02.mp3  Ah, Jakiro, I hope that icy head of yours hasn't cooled your temper.
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_54.mp3  Fire and ice! Reminds me of a song I once heard.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_75.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_75.mp3   Jakiro, Dragon Knight won't play ball. But you'll let me ride you, right?
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_76.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_76.mp3   Glad you're on our side Jakiro.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_81.mp3  You're not graceful, mon ami. But you get the job done.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_82.mp3  Do you each do a wing? How does it work?
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_83.mp3  I feel real sorry for folks without opposable thumbs.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_84.mp3  This here's the start of a real nice shindig.
 * vo_techies_tech_ally_04.mp3  Keep your breath off our powder and we'll do just fine, Jakiro.
 * vo_terrorblade_terr_ally_03.mp3 vo_terrorblade_terr_shards_ally_03.mp3   I'm always glad to have a dragon by my side.
 * vo_terrorblade_terr_morph_ally_03.mp3  I'm always glad to have a dragon by my side.
 * vo_treant_treant_ally_04.mp3  Mind you! Don't burn any trees I like, Jakiro.
 * vo_abyssal_underlord_abys_ally_04.mp3  We will bring a storm of ice and flame upon them!
 * vo_vengefulspirit_vng_ally_05.mp3  Cast your shadow over them, Jakiro.
 * vo_winter_wyvern_winwyv_ally_03.mp3  Keep your flames under control in my presence.

Enemies meeting Jakiro
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_79.mp3  How do you even fly with that massive growth on your--- Ooh, I see.

Enemies killing Jakiro
 * vo_batrider_bat_rival_24.mp3 Okay, Jakiro, which one of you wants to take me for a ride?
 * vo_bristleback_bristle_rival_25.mp3 Brought you down to earth didn't I, eh?
 * vo_crystalmaiden_cm_rival_17.mp3 I almost liked half of you.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_77.mp3  Two heads, no skill.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_78.mp3  I'm gonna make a jaunty little hat out of you...
 * vo_dragon_knight_drag_jakiro_01.mp3 vo_dragon_knight_dragon_jakiro_01.mp3  Even as a part time dragon, I have bested you Jakiro.
 * vo_ember_spirit_embr_rival_16.mp3 Two heads, zero insight.
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_26.mp3 Gravity brings you down.
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_rival_51.mp3  If you're not of single mind, there's no hope to defeat me.
 * vo_gyrocopter_gyro_rival_02.mp3 Shame you didn't have two crash helmets!
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_rival_81.mp3  Those two dragons crashed together so hard they merged into one dumber slower dragon.
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_rival_26.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_rival_26.mp3  Never trust a dragon.
 * vo_lina_lina_rival_04.mp3 Who would have thought a dragon wouldn't be fireproof.
 * vo_lycan_lycan_rival_25.mp3 You were a disgrace to the Pyrexae!
 * vo_medusa_medus_rival_16.mp3 Oh, I mistook you for a fire hydra.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_75.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_75.mp3   Two heads, and not a warrior between them.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_76.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_76.mp3   I was expecting a fight. How disappointing.
 * vo_nyx_assassin_nyx_rival_01.mp3 Neither hot, nor cold, just dead.
 * vo_nyx_assassin_nyx_rival_02.mp3 I silence one voice, then the other.
 * vo_ogre_magi_ogmag_rival_03.mp3 We gave you a head start!
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_80.mp3  Poor thing. Didn't survive the surgery.
 * vo_puck_puck_rival_08.mp3 It would seem that almost anything can call itself a dragon in this age.
 * vo_razor_raz_rival_14.mp3 Should have flown to your nest when you saw me coming, Jakiro.
 * vo_razor_raz_rival_15.mp3 When the sky is full of lightning, you shouldn't be flying.
 * vo_silencer_silen_rival_06.mp3 I clipped your wings.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_84.mp3  Is this one notch or two? Eh, we'll go with one. It's just for fun anyway.
 * * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_85.mp3  The good news is we can separate ya now without danger. The bad news is you're both already dead.
 * vo_spectre_spec_redux_rival_20.mp3 Death's cold embrace.
 * vo_stormspirit_stormspirit_rival_10.mp3 Ha ha! Blew you off course, did I?
 * vo_treant_treant_rival_07.mp3 Frost and flame? This will not do.
 * vo_undying_undying_rival_01.mp3 vo_undying_undying_big_rival_01.mp3  Dead air.
 * vo_vengefulspirit_vng_rival_04.mp3 Even a dragon must respect the Skywrath!
 * vo_vengefulspirit_vng_rival_01.mp3 Grounded.
 * vo_viper_vipe_killspecial_batrider_02.mp3 Clipped your wings.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_rival_49.mp3  I had hoped the wisdom of your kind would help you choose a better path.
 * vo_winter_wyvern_winwyv_rival_10.mp3 I should have crushed you in the nest.

Enemies dying to Jakiro
 * vo_dragon_knight_drag_jakiro_02.mp3 vo_dragon_knight_dragon_jakiro_02.mp3  Jakiro!
 * vo_lycan_lycan_rival_27.mp3 What unnatural freak is this?
 * vo_nyx_assassin_nyx_death_14.mp3 The dragon freak slays me?

Others
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_041.mp3  Two heads patrol a frigid path. Beware, lest you be burned.
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_duelhero_32.mp3 What happened to one on one?
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_duelhero_32.mp3  What happened to one on one?
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_duelhero_29.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_duelhero_29.mp3  I will bring you down!

Biography
Harbinger is the sole surviving member of an unnamed magisterial race, whose sole remaining member has sentenced himself to an eternal vigil on a vantage point known as the Outworld. On this crystalline fortress, Harbinger anticipates the evil that was foretold in the prophetic music of his mind, its rhythms implying that eventually this evil from the edges of reality will awaken and turn its attention to our world with an ineffable but certainly dark intention. Harbinger paid little attention to the events across the solar system containing the planet housing the warring Ancients, but a sense at the edge of his consciousness tells him that the war of the Ancients itself might serve as the catalyst of a darker force that may very well be the same evil that he has been anticipating for eternities.

Although he once trivialized this war, a change of mind has dispatched him towards the mundane planet to end the conflict between both Ancients in the hopes that at least this evil may be averted for the time being. But his arrival is not to be heralded as a messianic presence, but rather an explicit omen with warnings and bad news awaiting those who need to hear it—that is to say, all of existence.

Artifact
Deep in the cold space between the stars and the planets, Harbinger has anticipated Kanna's rise to power and the induction of as her champion. What he does not sense, however, is her acceptance of an authority figure's guidance as she has disowned her mother. And so he goes, his stony wings aloft, towards the celestial body housing the warring Ancients. He aligns with the hordes of the Dire and presents himself as Kanna's very own seneschal, filling up the void that her mother left behind. Little does she know that Harbinger has already set the cornerstone for her eternal servitude towards him. And nothing can prepare them for whatever he plans to do with her next...

Personality and Mannerisms

 * As an embodiment of an omen and as someone who has foreseen what it will bring, Harbinger frequently speaks of fate, prophecies, and the grim future that he has foreseen.
 * With that being said, he also claims to be indirectly responsible for his actions. Just like how a black cat, a common omen and catalyst for bad luck, is indirectly responsible for the ill fortune that a person crossing its path will receive.
 * Harbinger's foresight, intelligence, and expansive view on existence (as well as the bad things that will happen to it) has given him a very disconnected view of reality, at least to his perspective. Concepts like currency, the suffering of others,  and the earthly wars fought for the Ancients are insignificant to him, unless Harbinger senses that there is something very concerning in them.
 * When successfully destroying an Ancient, he will celebrate and say that his existence has meaning, implying that it didn't have any before. It is likely that his gloomy view on existence made him say this, since he knows that his existence has no meaning for eventually, everything is just going to come to an end.
 * Harbinger is manipulative

Allies
Harbinger is one of the few heroes of Dota 2 to have an unambiguous alignment with an Ancient and its armies. In the card game Artifact, he has allied himself with the forces of Dire, including the likes of Kanna and Raigor who was recruited by the former.

Enemies
It is only natural for a Dire hero to be ill disposed towards the Radiant. Harbinger protects Kanna from her own mother, Prellex, who is a priestess of the Radiant. He also seeks to kill her while claiming that her daughter is right about something that she said.

Physiology
Harbinger's head and the upper surface of his body are coated in dark stones with veins that flow with green energy. The rest of his body appears to resemble that of a griffin's, with extremities that resemble the talons of eagle, save for the appearance of fingernails on his hands. The stone that covers his body might be the same material that can be found in his Outworld homeland, since a self-assembling crystal and a species of crystalline tree, both native to the Outworld, share a similar composition with his gritty body.

The rocky material that covers his body serves as armor impregnable to the piercing rays of the evil forces from the outer dark. He may also wear an armor that's forged from the plasmic residue of a star named Dragon, which is said to be much more durable than dragon hide.

Powers
As an eldritch being, Harbinger's powers are based on his superior intelligence and mastery of the arcane energies. He is also one of the few heroes who have the ability to foresee the future, but he doesn't rely on scrying or foresight. Instead, he relies on the dark music in his mind that, according to his biography, plays a resonant pattern akin to a prophecy.

Harbinger's outworldly knowledge allows itself to access the ebb and flow of all spiritual energy, infusing it into his being to project a powerful. This so-called ebb and flow of spiritual energy may be a synonym for mana, as it is often described as a spiritual or ethereal energy.
 * It can be speculated that this ebb and flow may refer to the expenditure of mana and its eventual regeneration over time, respectively.

is an ability where Harbinger banishes an unfortunate victim into the pocket between "this world" (presumably the material plane) and the Outworld, where they realize their infantile knowledge and vulnerability to death. Some of Harbinger's unused voice lines imply that this pocket is named "the Outer Dark" or "the Abyss", likely referring to the same Void mentioned in his biography and in his signature card in Artifact.

allows him to replenish his energy reserves by channeling the the arcane energy produced by the Outworld's crystals through any of his rifts, causing it to flow into his being regardless of his location. This essentially makes him a living mana dispenser, except that the energy he dispenses is reserved for him alone.

Lastly, when Harbinger ruptures an Outworld crystal, it unleashes a that releases powerful energies to blot out the minds of those caught in the blast. Such is its power that its reverberations can be felt across dimensions.
 * The last sentence may be a reason why this ability can hit those affected by, since it banishes them to another dimension.

Outside of his gameplay abilities, Harbinger has some powers in his lore. If necessary, Harbinger may call upon a dark power to protect the "inmost shells of creation" from the evil incomprehensible forces bent on destroying it. Besides being described as symmetrical, nothing else is said about this power. He also possesses a staff made of self-assembling crystals from Outworld that can imprison opponents inside them.

Friendships and rivalries
Allies meeting Outworld Destroyer
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_131.mp3  Look, I don't know if they have gold where you're from but in case they don't, the little metal coins laying around are useless. Just let me collect them.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_132.mp3  Let's lock 'em down.
 * vo_dawnbreaker_valora_ally_141.mp3  I did not think to find one of your kind here, watcher. Are there more of you to call on?
 * vo_gyrocopter_gyro_ally_05.mp3  Outworld eh? Ah, can't say's I've been there.
 * vo_medusa_medus_ally_03.mp3  Let's drain these fools of mana.
 * vo_medusa_medus_ally_04.mp3  Outworld Destroyer, let's see who steals them first.
 * vo_meepo_meepo_ally_03.mp3  Hey Destroyer, what are you made of? And what's it worth?
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_127.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_127.mp3   Just so you know, I have a strict no-Astral-Imprisonment policy.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_128.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_128.mp3   Stop looking at me like that.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_135.mp3  So what do they do for fun where you come from?
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_136.mp3  It's my first time working with whatever it is you are. Anything I should know about?
 * vo_puck_puck_ally_04.mp3  What the Outworld represents, and why one would destroy it, is now a quandary that intrigues me.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_140.mp3  I thought I'd been places...
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_141.mp3  Oh, come on now. You're just stringing a whizzer on me.
 * * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_ally_41.mp3  Does the old road go unguarded?

Enemies meeting Outworld Destroyer
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_127.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_127.mp3   It's adorable. You think you can stop me.
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_rival_79.mp3  What then does this portend?

Enemies killing Outworld Destroyer
 * vo_arc_warden_arcwar_rival_13.mp3 You devour your last.
 * vo_axe_axe_rival_15.mp3  Your name is not Axe-world Destroyer!
 * vo_bloodseeker_blod_rival_15.mp3 My blades can scarcely bleed this one, but still the essence flows.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_131.mp3  You never should have come here!
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_132.mp3  Go back where you're from!
 * vo_enigma_enig_rival_26.mp3 Gravity brings you down.
 * vo_gyrocopter_gyro_rival_05.mp3 Ah go waste your omens on someone younger.
 * * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_rival_137.mp3  Heard you were some kind of big hullabaloo. I didn't come here to prove anything, but I guess I just did.
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_rival_36.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_rival_36.mp3  Never trust a--what are you anyway?
 * vo_lone_druid_lone_druid_rival_06.mp3 vo_lone_druid_lone_druid_bearform_rival_06.mp3   I will outlive your omens, Destroyer.
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_105.mp3  You're just a glorified guard dog.
 * vo_meepo_meepo_rival_15.mp3 Ain't you a cheerful one.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_128.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_128.mp3   Hadn't you heard? Imprisoning me just makes me stronger.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_133.mp3  I don't do well with authority figures.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_134.mp3  You should have stayed on the sidelines.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_141.mp3  Tell the truth, I'm not even sure he's really dead. What if he's pan-dimensional?
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_140.mp3  That'll put ya up a tree. They got trees where you're from?
 * vo_tiny_tiny_rival_03.mp3 I thought you were made of rock like me, but I guess it was only chalk.
 * vo_tiny_tiny_rival_04.mp3 Whatever rock you're made of seems to be delicate stuff.
 * vo_vengefulspirit_vng_rival_01.mp3 Grounded.
 * vo_viper_vipe_killspecial_batrider_02.mp3 Clipped your wings.
 * vo_visage_visa_rival_14.mp3  You are powerless here, Destroyer.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_rival_78.mp3  The fall of the last guardian and no one left to recognize its import.
 * vo_winter_wyvern_winwyv_rival_14.mp3  Stone wings?
 * vo_winter_wyvern_winwyv_rival_16.mp3 Stone wings? An abomination!

Enemies dying to Outworld Destroyer
 * vo_gyrocopter_gyro_rival_06.mp3 So that's what you were warning me about.

Others
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_067.mp3  It would seem I am not the only Harbinger of evil tidings here.
 * vo_legion_commander_legcom_duelhero_21.mp3 vo_legion_commander_legcom_dem_duelhero_21.mp3  Face your omens!

Biography
Bound to the will of the Flayed Twins by honor and the Blood Oath, Strygwyr the Bloodseeker is a ritually sanctioned hunter who descends from the mountainous Xhacatocatl to harvest blood for his gods. Although his task appears to be sinister to any unwitting observer, he does all of his work in the name of his people and the twin gods they worship. The Flayed Twins require oceans of blood to keep themselves sated and pacified, but failure to fulfill their needs shall result in them draining all of Xhacatocatl's people. Thus he dons the mantle of the blood rite hunters to collect as much blood as possible, with his work made much easier thanks to the sacred markings of his gear that immediately channel the collected vital energies to the Twins.

Strygwyr is the latest descendant of an ancient lineage of blood rite hunters who have also served the Flayed Twins in bygone times that no living being of the modern times can remember.

Gallows Understudy
In one of his travels, Strygwyr stumbled upon a strange benighted land that held executions over sacrifices. The killings that were offered to no one intrigued him for it was such a foreign concept to one who is accustomed to performing and receiving sacrifices. Before he could observe such fascinating customs, he needed to ensure that his visage and his identity were hidden to any suspicious bystanders. Hence he wears the local garbs of the land to blend in; including a hood a cape bracers and a skirt while fastening them with crude hempen rope from a noose that he found to be very useful. He also discarded his usual obsidian blades before heading out, until he managed to commission a pair of metal blades from the local blacksmith. Although he temporarily discarded his equipment that carries the sacred markings, he still relies on sacred lines of power to channel the blood he collects.

Strygwyr spent an entire season studying this backward culture. He observed that the executioners of the gallows carried out their deeds with metal blades (guillotines) and hemp rope, decapitating and asphyxiating unlucky victims while a mob would watch their deaths with morbid fascination. He soon realized that the mob itself was a deity in disguise, and that the executions were actually sacrifices offered to it. Satisfied with his investigation, he departed for his homeland to share what he learned with his masters of Xhacatocatl's priestly caste.

Artifact
Strygwyr was mentioned in passing when meets him as an ally. She says that she saw him at Roseleaf, but she kept her distance from him so that she wouldn't get killed. Cut Artifact card art shows that Strygwyr has been harvesting Oglodi for their blood, likely from the battles between Stonehall and the Red Mist in Roseleaf.

Personality and Mannerisms

 * Strygwyr's canine embodiment has deeply affected him on many levels besides his body, including his speech (sometimes) and his temperament when he is frenzied by bloodshed.
 * Although his outward appearance would say otherwise to those who are unwitting, Strygwyr is not a simpleminded beast. Outside of harvesting expeditions, he wanders far from his home as an anthropologist, thoroughly studying the cultures of any land that just so happens to intrigue him.
 * Strygwyr is honorable

Enemies
Strygwyr dislikes. He also acts on the will of his twin gods, who seek the Omniscience as sacrifice. He also dislikes and sees his faith in Obelis as a sad and empty thing.

Powers
Even without his sacred appurtenances, Strygwyr can channel the blood that he lets to his gods through sacred lines of power. The collected blood is not just given as tribute for the Flayed Twins, but also a source of self-healing. He can also absorb different kinds of vital energy, such as the essence that channels through his being.

Strygwyr's allows him to bestow his animalistic thirst for bloodshed on others, making them just as vicious as the hound himself. Unused voice lines suggest that this skill, when cast on someone else, causes them to choke on blood. The blood inside their throat and mouth prevents them from speaking and reciting incantations aloud, hence the Silence debuff that it used to have. It is unknown if this ability still does that in the lore as it has long been reworked.

When blood is shed, Strygwyr undergoes a for blood. The faintest scent of blood is enough to send him into an animalistic frenzy, making him doggedly in the hunt for his victims.

Friendship and rivalries
Allies meeting Bloodseeker
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_19.mp3  So... if I give you a list of enemies, could you like, hunt them down for me?
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_ally_20.mp3  Oh I saw you years ago in Roseleaf! Kept my distance though, you know, so I wouldn't get murdered.
 * vo_dawnbreaker_valora_ally_019.mp3  I'm sure you're a very skilled delivery boy, Bloodseeker.
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_ally_14.mp3  I cannot wait to see what we can accomplish together, bloodbag.
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_ally_15.mp3  Are you bound to the Flayed Twins by honor, Bloodseeker, or arcane oath?
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_ally_19.mp3  Yeah, hunting's only really fun if it's not work. So you're doing it wrong, is what I'm saying, Bloodseeker.
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_13.mp3  This is going to be fun. Oh, and when we're done here, tell the Flayed Twins I'm coming for them. Happy hunting!
 * vo_mars_mars_ally_14.mp3  I had a kind of a hound once. He got on mother's bad side...
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_19.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_19.mp3   Stick with me and you'll find all the blood you need.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_ally_20.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_ally_20.mp3   Bloodseeker, your work is messy but necessary.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_19.mp3  I will be upfront about this: I'm not much for ritualistic slaughter.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_ally_20.mp3  You may lick the drippings from my blade, if you wish.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_20.mp3  I heard you promisin' cookies, but I don't see an oven.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_ally_21.mp3  I can help you fulfill that cookie order I was told you're making.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_ally_09.mp3  Place our cause before your gods of gluttony, Bloodseeker.

Enemies killing Bloodseeker
 * vo_abaddon_abad_rival_16.mp3 You should have sought me in the mist, Bloodseeker.
 * vo_brewmaster_brew_rival_12.mp3 Your blood alcohol level was insufficient.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_19.mp3  I've been hunted by better.
 * vo_dark_willow_sylph_rival_20.mp3  You're an abomination, Bloodseeker!
 * vo_dawnbreaker_valora_rival_019.mp3  Come now. Your gods are but children playing in the mud.
 * vo_grimstroke_grimstroke_rival_15.mp3  In the end, what you sought was your own demise.
 * vo_hoodwink_hoodwink_rival_19.mp3  You're better off drinking maple syrup.
 * vo_huskar_husk_rival_08.mp3 Respect, Bloodseeker.
 * vo_life_stealer_lifest_rival_12.mp3 You had the right idea, Bloodseeker…but the wrong master.
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_17.mp3  You caught the wrong scent, Bloodseeker.
 * vo_mars_mars_rival_18.mp3  What I'll do to you is nothing to what I have in store for your masters!
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_19.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_19.mp3   You don't need to hunt me down, I'm right here.
 * vo_monkey_king_monkey_rival_20.mp3 vo_monkey_king_monkey_crown_rival_20.mp3   The only blood being spilt here is yours.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_19.mp3  What do you know! The blood was inside of you this whole time.
 * vo_pangolin_pangolin_rival_20.mp3  The twins best find a new lapping dog.
 * vo_slark_slark_rival_10.mp3 You want to bleed me? I'll bleed you.
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_20.mp3  Leaping lizards! Did you see the teeth on that thing?
 * vo_snapfire_snapfire_rival_21.mp3  Bit off more'n you could chew, bloodboy!
 * vo_terrorblade_terr_rival_25.mp3 vo_terrorblade_terr_morph_rival_25.mp3  vo_terrorblade_terr_shards_rival_25.mp3  Your blood runs cold.
 * vo_void_spirit_voidspir_rival_11.mp3  You concern yourself only with gluttony. And this is where that path leads.

Enemies dying to Bloodseeker
 * vo_brewmaster_brew_rival_13.mp3 Careful, my blood alcohol level is fatal.
 * vo_huskar_husk_rival_09.mp3 Bloodseeker, that was well done.

Others
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_011.mp3  He who seeks blood shall seek you, who are full of it.
 * vo_oracle_orac_prophecies_012.mp3  Run not when you are ruptured lest you run to your own finish.

Trivia

 * Alongside the, Strygwyr speaks in a Hispanic accent.

Life in Academia
Among the earliest practitioners of magic in its most potent and ancient form, there was a child prodigy named Carl. Such was his intellect and memory that he could master more than four spells—the highest amount of spells that a devoted wizard could hope to master with the most of their brainpower. He was enrolled in an ancient wizard's renowned academy for the mystic arts that honed his already impressive skills in magic. The young Carl excelled at every curricular task given to him and basked in the praise given for being so competent, but he dreamt of a future where he answered to no one but himself, where he could freely use his growing powers. The headmaster of this academy thought to keep him locked away, likely to prevent him from unleashing the destructive potential that his powers could bring. This didn't come to fruition however, as the young Carl had successfully destroyed the academy and left it in ruins. Also, in his self-chosen day of graduation when he freed himself from the school, he managed to acquire the Dark Artistry formal battle dress, an extremely coveted uniform that could only be issued in times of great calamity and sorrow. Among the earliest practitioners of magic in its most potent and ancient form, there was a child prodigy named Carl. Such was his intellect and memory that he could master more than four spells—the highest amount of spells that a devoted wizard could hope to master with the most of their brainpower. He was enrolled in an ancient wizard's renowned academy for the mystic arts that honed his already impressive skills in magic. The young Carl excelled at every curricular task given to him and basked in the praise given for being so competent, but he dreamt of a future where he answered to no one but himself, where he could freely use his growing powers. The headmaster of this academy thought to keep him locked away, likely to prevent him from unleashing the destructive potential that his powers could bring. This didn't come to fruition however, as the young Carl had successfully destroyed the academy and left it in ruins. With no headmaster to oppress him, he was finally free to make his dreams a reality. He stole a time travelling spell from the late headmaster's secret archives so that he can prematurely travel into the future that he dreamt of. Casting the spell, he was successfully displaced from the past of the current timeline into the present, switching places with his elder self. Although the spell was successful, he failed to read the full description of the spell before casting it. If he were to fail in his elder self's fated mission, it will result in each timeline's certain demise.
 * -|Original Timeline=
 * -|Alternate Timeline=

Post-Graduation
In the early days after his escape from the academia, Carl sought to test his growing skills by any means attainable. He found a great opportunity for adventure and trials in the field of battle and answered the call to war, becoming a battle mage.