Shamhat, the Enchantress of Uruk

“Sacred Harlot Who Tamed the Wild: Meet Shamhat of the Epic of Gilgamesh!”

• Alias: None
• Gender: Female
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Sacred harlot and priestess
• Religion: Worshiper of the gods of Uruk
• Allies: The temple priests and priestesses, the people of Uruk
• Enemies: Those who threatened the harmony of Uruk
• Abode/Base of Operations: The temple in the city of Uruk
• Nationality: Sumerian
• Languages: Sumerian, Akkadian
• Alignment: Neutral Good
• Affiliation(s): The Temple of Uruk, the city of Uruk
• Significant Others: None recorded

In the ancient city of Uruk, where the mighty King Gilgamesh reigned, there lived a woman named Shamhat. She was known far and wide for her captivating beauty and her extraordinary talents. As a sacred harlot, Shamhat’s life was intricately woven with the affairs of gods and mortals, her purpose as essential as the very air that people breathed.

Shamhat’s days were spent in the temple, adorned in garments of vibrant silks and jewels that shimmered in the flickering candlelight. Her dark, expressive eyes held the promise of both pleasure and solace for those who sought her embrace. Her laughter was like the sweetest music, filling the hearts of those who came to find solace in her arms.

But it wasn’t merely physical pleasure that Shamhat offered; she was a vessel of wisdom and healing. Her gentle touch could mend not only aching bodies but wounded souls as well. She understood the deepest desires and fears of those who sought her company, and she listened without judgment, offering solace and counsel.

Shamhat’s greatest fear was the looming darkness that threatened the kingdom of Uruk. She feared that the king, Gilgamesh, consumed by his own arrogance and power, would bring ruin to their land. Yet, she also believed in the potential for change and redemption, even in the heart of a king as mighty as Gilgamesh.

Her purpose was to bridge the gap between the divine and mortal worlds, to offer a glimmer of hope and humanity to those who had lost their way. Shamhat’s ultimate desire was to see Uruk flourish, to witness a world where compassion and wisdom prevailed over pride and destruction. In her own unique way, she played a crucial role in the epic tale of Gilgamesh, shaping the destiny of kings and the fate of a kingdom.

Shamhat

Medium humanoid (human), neutral good

Armor Class 11 (sacred robes) Hit Points 27 (6d8) Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
10 (+0)	12 (+1)	11 (+0)	14 (+2)	16 (+3)	18 (+4)

Skills Insight +5, Persuasion +6 Senses passive Perception 13 Languages Common, Akkadian Challenge 2 (450 XP)

Innate Spellcasting. Shamhat’s spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 14, +6 to hit with spell attacks). She can innately cast the following spells, requiring no material components:

• At will: Friends, Guidance
• 3/day each: Charm Person, Suggestion
• 1/day: Dominate Person

Actions

Seductive Gaze. Shamhat targets one creature she can see within 30 feet. If the target can see and hear her, it must make a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be charmed by Shamhat for 1 minute. The charmed target regards Shamhat as a trusted friend to be heeded and protected. If the target takes damage or Shamhat attacks it, the target can repeat the saving throw, ending the effect on a success.

Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 1) piercing damage.

Lore Keeper. She can recall information she has heard about various myths, legends, and creatures. She may share this knowledge as tales or stories, which can provide advantage on ability checks or saving throws related to such topics.

Evasion. If she is subjected to an effect that allows her to make a Dexterity saving throw to take half damage on a success, she takes no damage on a success instead.

Reactions

Distracting Charm. When a creature Shamhat can see targets her with an attack, she can use her reaction to divert the creature’s attention. The creature must make a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the creature’s attack misses Shamhat and targets a random creature within its reach, including allies. On a success, the attack proceeds as normal.

Legendary Resistance (1/Day). If she fails a saving throw, she can choose to succeed instead.

Equipment

Shamhat typically carries a dagger, and a small satchel containing various herbs and perfumes. She uses these items to aid in her seductive and charming abilities.

Roleplaying Shamhat Shamhat is a charming and charismatic character who uses her alluring presence to influence and persuade others. She often serves as a mediator and communicator in the party, using her innate charm to negotiate and gather information. Her knowledge of myths and legends makes her a valuable source of information about the ancient world.

Adventure Hook The party encounters Shamhat in an ancient temple or ruins while seeking information about a legendary artifact. Shamhat offers her assistance in exchange for their protection on a journey to uncover the artifact’s secrets. However, her presence also attracts the attention of rivals and enemies who seek to thwart their quest.

Currently in the World

Shamhat is a striking woman with flowing, dark hair that cascades down her back like a river of ebony. Her skin carries a sun-kissed bronze hue, reflecting the life she spends under the Mesopotamian sun. Her eyes, a deep and warm brown, sparkle with an inner wisdom.

She is currently adorned in the garments of her sacred role – a flowing white linen robe that gracefully wraps around her form, tied at the waist with a simple cord. Her attire is unadorned, save for a few symbolic markings that signify her dedication to the temple. In her hand, she holds a bundle of fragrant herbs, which she uses for various rituals and offerings.

Shamhat is seated within the tranquil confines of the temple courtyard. The air is filled with the sweet scent of burning incense, and the distant hum of prayers being chanted softly by other priestesses lingers in the background. She wears a serene expression, as her duties involve bringing comfort and solace to those who seek her guidance. Her mood is one of compassion and devotion, always ready to provide counsel and aid to those who come to her seeking solace or answers to life’s questions.