The Hendo Lok Family

Lore & Background

The Hendo Lok Family traces its origins to Hendo Lok Hendo, one of the Great Warriors who climbed the Tower alongside Zahard. As a reward for their service, the family was granted a special contract that renders its members terrifyingly difficult to kill—not true immortality, but a near-invulnerability that has made them legends. This has forged a reputation for being stubborn beyond reason, both in battle and in politics, where they are known to outlast enemies through sheer endurance. The family's strength is visually unmistakable: their members are depicted with massive, muscular builds that seem carved from stone, able to absorb punishment that would shatter lesser Rankers.

Reader's Guide

The Hendo Lok Family is one of the Ten Great Families, founded by Hendo Lok Hendo, a Great Warrior of the Tower. Their primary goal is to maintain their power and influence within the Tower's hierarchy, often supporting the Zahard Empire's rule as a pillar of the old guard. The family is known for its members' incredible physical strength and a unique immortality contract that makes them nearly unkillable—though not invincible. They are frequently involved in major conflicts, such as the battle at the Last Station, where their combat prowess is on full display. Key members include Hendo Lok Hendo himself, one of the few Great Warriors still alive and active, and various descendants who serve as High Rankers. Their role in the story is to represent the stubborn, enduring backbone of the Tower's status quo, often opposing change, though individual members may harbor their own agendas and ambitions.

Did You Know?

• The Hendo Lok Family's immortality contract is unique among the Ten Families, but it does not make them invincible—just extremely difficult to kill. Even a direct hit from a High Ranker might only slow them down.
• Members of the Hendo Lok Family are often depicted with massive, muscular physiques, reflecting their focus on physical combat and raw endurance over Shinsu finesse.
• The family's name is sometimes associated with the concept of 'endurance' in Tower lore, and their motto might as well be: 'You can break our bones, but you cannot break our will.'