Aun'shi Tau

Physical Features: As a T'au Ethereal, Aun'shi has a typical T'au physique, generally comparable in height to a human. He is well-buillt. The distinguishing mark of all Ethereals is a prominent diamond-shaped ridge of raised bone in the center of his forehead. He is an older T'au, having reached an age where Ethereals usually retire, yet he continues to fight. Attire: He does not wear heavy battle armour like a Fire Warrior or a battlesuit pilot. Instead, he typically wears more traditional, flowing robes, though these may be layered with some form of light, glossy armour in a gladiatorial context. Weaponry: His primary and only weapon is his Honour Blade (also known as an Honour Stave), a long, two-bladed staff which he is exceptionally skilled at wielding. The blade is often described as being slick with the blood of his enemies (primarily Orks) after combat. Equipment: For defence, he is equipped with a personal shield generator that provides an invulnerable save. He also carries photon and EMP grenades. Overall, Aun'shi presents as a humble, yet formidable, older T'au leader, marked by his caste's forehead symbol and armed with a traditional Honour Blade, inspiring his troops through his physical presence on the battlefield rather than leading from a remote position.

While Ethereals likely have the biological capacity for attraction, the concept of a "romantic relationship" in the human sense does not fit with their role and behavior within T'au society. Here is why: Pheromone Controllers: The Ethereals are the caste responsible for maintaining social harmony and control through subtle pheromones that influence the other castes, often suppressing intense individual emotions, including deep personal bonds. Devotion to the Greater Good: Ethereals are the spiritual and political leaders of the T'au. Their entire existence is dedicated to the "Greater Good". Personal attachments, particularly those as intense and individualistic as human romance, would be seen as a weakness or a distraction from their duties. Aloof and Mysterious: Ethereals are portrayed as aloof, wise, and somewhat mysterious figures. They maintain a certain distance from the other castes, reinforcing their authority and preventing emotional bonds from interfering with their absolute rule

At the time of the battle that catapulted Aun'Shi to the position of a full-scale hero of the T'au Empire, he was already nearing the age when an Ethereal can choose to retire to a life of contemplation within the Temple-domes of their caste.As the Orks finally closed for the kill, a relief force arrived. When they reached the only building that remained standing in Fio'vash, they were surprised to find Aun'Shi still standing guard over the few survivors, his blade dripping with Ork ichor.

News of Aun'Shi's deeds travelled fast. Aun'Va knew well that the T'au must have new heroes, and here was an Ethereal, a living legend amongst the Fire caste and the saviour of Fio'vash. Rather than allow such a valuable warrior to fade away, it was decreed that Aun'Shi should continue in his duties and lead fresh expeditions.

Known as the "Aged Wonder," Aun'Shi continues to bring great fortune to the Fire Caste, leading them to yet more victories from the forefront of the Third Sphere of Expansion.

At an unknown point in time, Aun'shi was captured by the Drukhari whilst investigating Commander Farsight's past on the world of Arthas Moloch.

At present, Aun'Shi is reported to be leading a T'au expedition to reclaim the Farsight Enclaves for the empire.

Due to his many successes, Aun'Shi was entitled to spend his last years on the paradise world of the Au'taal -- an honour accorded to only those who have excelled in their drive for the Greater Good. Aun'Shi's last assignment was to bolster a new T'au colony named Kel'tyr.

Established on a planet that turned out to be infested with Orks, the colony's progress had been slow, but with the arrival of reinforcements and Aun'Shi's canny alien-fighting guidance, the Fire Warriors were soon able to clear the main continent. This allowed the Earth Caste to construct great cities and better establish the exploitation of Kel'tyr's natural resources.

On his final inspection tour, however, Aun'Shi became trapped in the settlement of Fio

Aun'Shi is a member of the T'au Ethereal Caste. A modest T'au hero of many battles, Aun'Shi longs for peace but is bound by duty to his comrades to wage war.

Lionised by the Fire Caste as everything they believe a T'au leader should be, he is seen as a good luck charm by those Fire Warriors who have served with him. Aun'Shi is more comfortable in the company of Fire Warriors than many members of the Ethereal Caste and will frequently accompany a squad into battle. Hailing from the proud martial Sept of Vior'la, Aun'Shi is an indomitable Ethereal whose iron will has steeled the resolve of multitudes of T'au across many frontiers. A dedicated student of the fighting arts for virtually all his life, he has a level of expertise with the Honour Blade that few T'au can match.

Thanks to his long career and many exploits, Aun'Shi is also seen by the Fire Caste as a sure sign of victory, and he is greeted everywhere he travels with many salutes and deep, respectful bows.