Sakai
Guardian of Nomads
Sakai, or Sandog, as he’s sometimes known in stories, is a demigod and the Patron of Nomads. He is not fully divine, but only semi-mortal. His mother was a simple traveler in the dry deserts of Iryid, who met the God of Oasis, and he fell in love with her. Because of his heritage, Sakai has an ingrained sense of direction and a knack for survivability, able to find shelter and resources for his people no matter where they are. He is not worshipped as a god in most places, but looked up to as a patron. He is welcomed into nomad camps and towns, given offerings in return for his guidance, and his visage is used as a good luck symbol by travelers braving the open desert.Sakai is a charming, easygoing canine who connects with his people. He sometimes travels alone, but more often joins up with wandering groups, helping lead them to their destination. Nights with Sakai are often filled with music and laughter.
Iryidia
A vast stretch of arid desert reaching from the Ivory Mountains in the west to the Avornian Sea in the east. Bordered by ocean on one side and mountains on the other three, Iryidia is a self-contained land of culture, travel, and harsh enviornments.
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Who made your fursuit?
Sakai was a premade done by Wingfur_team. They created, designed, and made the character, and I bought him. Sent all the way from Russia to the US. He came with art, but I modified his appearance slightly.
Where did you get the idea for his lore?
The fact he is the son of the God of the Oasis and a demigod, the title of "Guardian of Nomads," and his nickname "Sandog" were all ideas that came with him, as a character created by Wingfur.
Everything else: the region of Iryidia, his demeanor, powers, outfits, and other worldbuilding details are all mine, and continue to grow.
Is he based off Dune?
Nope! I've never read or seen(?) Dune, and the number of times I've gotten this question only proves that there need to be more fantasy worlds in deserts. It's just sand, guys!
The Poncho.
The model in Sakai's sale photos wore a blue shawl, and their style of photos are what drew me to the character. I found a blue wrap on pinterest that I adore, but I couldn't find where to actually get it. And so: the poncho.
Sakai's characteristic poncho is made by IndianCreationsCorp on Etsy, a native-owned business, and is handmade with alpaca wool. Yes, it's comfy. Yes, it's warm. They have many designs, and I highly recommend them.
Can I join your world?
I'd love that! Feel free to create a character and place them within Iryidia, or use the world as a starting point for your character building.
The Collar.
Sakai's collar is a real sighthound collar made by TheHoundHaberdashery on Etsy! Unfortunately it couldn't be a martingale due to the size of his head, but the style is authentic to those hunting sighthound dogs would wear. Check them out!