The Hand that keeps the Garden

The Unforgiving Hand is a mysterious and clandestine organization that operates from the island city-state of Tolis, a democratic republic known for its opulence and secrecy. At first glance, Tolis seems like any other thriving metropolis, but behind the scenes, the Unforgiving Hand pulls the strings, orchestrating political intrigue, espionage, and covert operations.
The public face of the Unforgiving Hand is the Emerald Garden, a lavish pleasure palace that attracts the influential and up-and-coming power players of Tolis. On the surface, it appears to be a place of entertainment and relaxation, where the city's elite come to indulge in various luxuries. However, behind the luxurious facade lies a complex network of skilled assassins, spies, and shadow brokers operating under the command of Madame Thera.
Madame Thera, a mastermind in her own right, is the enigmatic leader of the Unforgiving Hand. Her true identity and origins remain shrouded in mystery, and even among the members of her organization, few have heard her real name. Her presence is both captivating and terrifying, with an aura of authority that commands unwavering loyalty from her subordinates.
The Unforgiving Hand operates with meticulous precision and remains hidden from the prying eyes of the outside world. Their members are highly trained and skilled in various arts of deception, combat, and intelligence gathering. They take on contracts from various powerful factions within Tolis and beyond, executing targeted assassinations, gathering sensitive information, and ensuring the success of their clients' agendas.
While the organization maintains an aura of secrecy, its influence extends far beyond Tolis. The Unforgiving Hand is adept at manipulating events on the global stage, often steering conflicts and political maneuverings to their advantage. Their network of spies and informants stretches across borders, allowing them to stay one step ahead of their adversaries.
The Unforgiving Hand operates by a strict code of loyalty, and betrayal is met with swift and brutal consequences. Members are bound by an unbreakable oath, which they refer to as "The Vow of Shadows." Breaking this vow is considered an unforgivable offense, and those who do so are relentlessly hunted down by the Hand's most skilled assassins.
Rumors suggest that the Unforgiving Hand has existed for centuries, its roots buried deep in the shadows of Tolis' history. While many doubt the organization's existence, those who have encountered their lethal expertise know better than to dismiss them as mere legend. The Unforgiving Hand remains a powerful and inscrutable force, shaping the destiny of nations from the shadows and striking fear into the hearts of their enemies.

Structure

Organizational Structure of The Unforgiving Hand: Madame Thera: The enigmatic and mysterious leader of the Unforgiving Hand, her identity is known only to a select few within the organization. She oversees all operations and holds ultimate authority.
The Garden Keepers: Trusted lieutenants of Madame Thera, these individuals are skilled tacticians and strategists who manage different aspects of the organization. They are the ones responsible for overseeing operations in the Emerald Garden and coordinating the activities of the operatives.
The Blossoms: These are the operatives of the Unforgiving Hand, highly trained and specialized in various arts of assassination, espionage, and information gathering. Each operative is given a code name of a flower, such as "Lily," "Rose," "Orchid," etc., to conceal their true identities. The Blossoms operate in cells, each with a unique set of skills and missions.
The Nectar Keepers: Information brokers and spies who gather intelligence from all corners of Tolis and beyond. They have extensive networks of informants and contacts, ensuring that the Unforgiving Hand stays ahead of its adversaries.
The Thornweavers: The enforcers and protectors of the organization, skilled in hand-to-hand combat and security. They guard key locations and ensure the safety of Madame Thera and other high-ranking members.
The Petal Whispers: The communications and logistics experts who maintain secure channels for the exchange of information and directives within the organization. They use sophisticated encryption techniques and codewords to ensure secrecy.
The Nightshades: An elite group of veteran operatives, retired Blossoms, and seasoned advisors who provide counsel to Madame Thera on critical matters. Their wisdom and experience shape the long-term strategies of the organization.
The Unforgiving Hand's hierarchical structure ensures a tightly knit and disciplined organization. The code names of flowers add an additional layer of secrecy and create a sense of unity among the operatives. Each member plays a crucial role in maintaining the dominance and influence of the Unforgiving Hand in the shadowy world of Tolis and beyond.

Culture

The culture of the Unforgiving Hand is one of absolute loyalty, discipline, and secrecy. Operatives are bound by a deep sense of commitment to the organization and its goals. They operate with unwavering dedication, willing to sacrifice everything for the Hand's cause. While they exist in the shadows, they embrace a set of principles that govern their actions:
Loyalty Above All: Loyalty to Madame Thera and the Unforgiving Hand is paramount. Members are expected to put the organization's interests above their own, and betrayal is considered the gravest offense.
Silence and Discretion: The Unforgiving Hand thrives on secrecy. Operatives are forbidden from revealing their true identities, even to fellow members, to protect against infiltration and exposure.
Code of Ethics: Despite being an organization of assassins and spies, the Unforgiving Hand adheres to a strict code of ethics. They do not target the innocent or engage in wanton violence. Their contracts are meticulously chosen to align with their own sense of justice.
Professionalism: Operatives are highly skilled professionals who excel in their respective fields. They approach their tasks with a level of precision and expertise that sets them apart from other clandestine organizations.
Unity in Diversity: The Unforgiving Hand is an assembly of individuals from diverse backgrounds and origins. Regardless of their past, they find unity in their shared purpose and commitment to the Hand's cause.
The Veil of Civility: The public face of the Unforgiving Hand, the Emerald Garden, is of utmost importance. To maintain its pristine reputation, the organization strategically uses charity events and public works to project a façade of civility and sophistication. This helps to deflect suspicion from their true activities and maintain a delicate balance between their covert operations and their public persona.
Adaptability: The Unforgiving Hand is ever-evolving and adaptive, constantly staying ahead of its adversaries. They embrace innovation and utilize cutting-edge technology alongside ancient tradecraft to achieve their goals. Blossoms specialize in disappearing into their roles for survival and to succeed in their missions.
Respect for Tradition: Despite being an organization entrenched in secrecy, the Unforgiving Hand has deep-rooted traditions and a sense of history. The teachings of the past are respected and passed down through generations, fostering a sense of continuity and heritage.
Resilience and Fortitude: Operatives of the Unforgiving Hand are trained to endure physical and mental challenges. They must possess the resilience to overcome obstacles and the fortitude to carry out their missions with unyielding determination.
Overall, the culture of the Unforgiving Hand is one of contradictions. It balances the clandestine nature of its activities with the appearance of civility and elegance in its public face. Operatives walk a fine line between shadows and society, ensuring that their actions serve the Hand's objectives while keeping their true identity hidden. The organization's culture is the backbone of its power, binding its members together and allowing them to operate effectively in the world of intrigue and deception.

Public Agenda

The revised agenda of the Unforgiving Hand, shared with its operatives, includes the following elements:
The Destruction of the Vedka Empire: The foremost objective of the Unforgiving Hand is to work towards the downfall of the oppressive Vedka Empire. Operatives are dedicated to undermining the empire's power, weakening its influence, and disrupting its military and political machinations.
Preservation of the Republic of Tolis: The Unforgiving Hand is committed to safeguarding the sovereignty and democratic values of the Republic of Tolis. Operatives are tasked with thwarting any attempts by the Vedka Empire or other adversaries to destabilize or infiltrate Tolis' government and institutions. This is for as much self preservation as it is for the protection of the Republic.
Securing the Hand's Supremacy: While fighting against the Vedka Empire, the Unforgiving Hand must also maintain its dominance as the most influential clandestine organization in Tolis. This involves ensuring their position as the go-to group for assassinations, espionage, and information brokering in service of the Republic's interests.
Protection of Madame Thera: Madame Thera's safety and identity remain of paramount importance. Operatives are bound to shield her and the inner workings of the organization, allowing her to lead the charge against the Vedka Empire while keeping the Hand's existence hidden from their adversaries.
Preserving the Veil of Civility: The Emerald Garden's reputation as a symbol of civility must be maintained, as it serves as a crucial cover for the Unforgiving Hand's activities. Operatives are responsible for upholding the illusion of civility and philanthropy associated with the pleasure palace.
Eliminating Threats to the Hand: The Unforgiving Hand must identify and neutralize any potential threats or rival organizations that could undermine their mission to destroy the Vedka Empire, maintain power, and preserve Tolis. This involves eliminating enemies and traitors who could jeopardize the Hand's efforts.

Executing High-Profile Contracts: The Hand selectively takes high-profile contracts that align with their mission to dismantle the Vedka Empire or protect the Republic of Tolis. Such missions may involve eliminating key figures who pose a threat to Tolis' sovereignty, stability, or gathering sensitive information to aid in their cause.
Balancing Justice and Profit: Despite their clandestine nature, the Unforgiving Hand adheres to a code of ethics. Operatives are expected to ensure that their actions are just and serve the greater good of preserving Tolis, even as they engage in covert operations.
Fostering Unity Among Operatives: The Unforgiving Hand emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation among its members. Operatives are encouraged to support one another, share knowledge, and work together effectively to achieve the organization's goals.
Adapting to Changing Circumstances: The Unforgiving Hand recognizes the fluidity of the conflict and espionage they engage in. Operatives are trained to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, employing innovative strategies to further their mission against the Vedka Empire and protect Tolis.
Building a Legacy: The Unforgiving Hand seeks to leave a lasting impact on Tolis by helping to secure its freedom and democracy. Their actions and influence shape the course of history, ensuring that the Republic's legacy endures even as individual operatives come and go.
By incorporating the destruction of the Vedka Empire and the preservation of the Republic of Tolis into their agenda, the Unforgiving Hand galvanizes its operatives to work tirelessly towards these critical objectives, forging a united front in their covert struggle for justice and freedom.

Assets

The Unforgiving Hand possesses a formidable array of assets, enabling them to carry out their covert operations with precision and efficiency:
1. Highly Skilled Operatives: The Unforgiving Hand's operatives, known as the Blossoms, are expertly trained in various disciplines, including assassination, espionage, and intelligence gathering. They are the backbone of the organization, capable of executing complex missions with deadly accuracy.
2. The Emerald Garden: The public face of the Unforgiving Hand, the Emerald Garden, serves as a crucial asset. This luxurious pleasure palace provides a cover for the organization's activities and allows them to maintain a facade of civility while conducting their covert operations.
3. Extensive Intelligence Network: The Hand's Nectar Keepers operate an extensive network of informants and spies, gathering critical intelligence from all corners of Tolis and beyond. This vast web of information helps the organization stay one step ahead of their adversaries.
4. Ancient Tradecraft: The Unforgiving Hand draws upon centuries of experience and traditions, passing down ancient tradecraft and knowledge to its operatives. This wealth of wisdom gives them a unique advantage in the world of espionage and clandestine operations.
5. The Veil of Secrecy: Secrecy itself is a potent asset for the Unforgiving Hand. Their clandestine nature allows them to operate discreetly and strike without warning, leaving their enemies unaware until it's too late.
6. Madame Thera's Leadership: The enigmatic leadership of Madame Thera plays a vital role in guiding the organization. Her strategic acumen, charismatic authority, and decisive decision-making inspire unwavering loyalty among her operatives.
7. The Nightshade Council: The council of experienced operatives and advisors provides valuable counsel to Madame Thera. Their collective wisdom and expertise shape the Hand's long-term strategies and help navigate complex challenges.
9. Financial Resources: Through their covert operations and public face as the Emerald Garden, the Unforgiving Hand has access to substantial financial resources. These funds support their operations, procure necessary equipment, and maintain their lavish public persona.
Combined, these assets make the Unforgiving Hand a powerful and enigmatic force, capable of shaping the destiny of Tolis and influencing events on a global scale from the shadows.

History

Legend tells of a mysterious organization known as the Unforgiving Hand, shrouded in secrets and enigma. Its origins are veiled in the mists of time, and whispers speak of its existence dating back to eras long forgotten. Some claim that it emerged from the shadows during a time of great turmoil, born from the desperation of those seeking justice against an oppressive regime.
Rumors suggest that the Unforgiving Hand was initially a group of vengeful souls, wronged by the tyrannical Sindari Elves and seeking retribution. They swore a solemn oath to take justice into their own hands, becoming the unseen avengers of the oppressed. As time passed, their ranks grew, and their methods evolved, adopting the arts of espionage, assassination, and shadow magic to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Others spin tales of an ancient prophecy that foretold the rise of the Unforgiving Hand as a force destined to bring balance to the world. This prophecy allegedly spoke of a hidden leader, a figure known only as Madame Thera, who would guide the Hand with an iron will and an unyielding vision.
Whispers abound about the Unforgiving Hand's mastery of illusion and deception. Legends speak of a secret academy where aspiring Blossoms undergo rigorous training, honing their skills in the magical arts and learning to conceal their identities. Some say that the academy exists in a realm beyond the veil of reality, accessible only to those who prove themselves worthy.
As the Hand's influence grew, so did the myths surrounding its members. Whispers tell of operatives who can vanish into the shadows, becoming one with the darkness itself. Others claim that the Blossoms possess the ability to change their appearances at will, taking on any form they desire to blend seamlessly into the crowd. Some houses in Tolis even have an empty seat at their tables, just in case a Blossom were to appear.
Throughout history, the Unforgiving Hand has been blamed  for pivotal moments in the rise and fall of organizations and royalty. Some say they orchestrated the downfall of tyrants, while others claim they were the hidden hand behind the rise of great leaders who championed justice and freedom.
Yet, amidst the intrigue and speculation, one constant remains - the existence of the Emerald Garden. The pleasure palace, with its luxurious façade and hidden depths, continues to stand as the enigmatic public face of the Unforgiving Hand. Whispers suggest that the Garden holds secrets, mystical artifacts, and the gateway to the organization's inner sanctum.
With every tale told and each rumor spread, the history of the Unforgiving Hand becomes more elusive and mysterious. As time marches on, it seems that the true nature of this shadowy organization may forever remain a captivating enigma, locked away in the annals of time, waiting to be discovered by those bold enough to seek the truth.

"Silent shadows, unforgiving blades; weaving fate unseen."

Type

Illicit, Syndicate

Alternative Names

The Veiled Vendetta, Red Flowers, The Garden

Demonym

Flowers, Hands