The Brotherhood Without Honor

The Brotherhood Without Honor is a notorious faction perceived as a loose collective of raiders and miscreants by most of the established powers, particularly the Nocturnam Dominion and the Oni Commonwealth. Despite their reputation as marauders, the Brotherhood is more organized than they appear, driven by a complex code of conduct that values strength, cunning, and survival above all else.

History:

Formed during the chaotic aftermath of the Drow rebellion, the Brotherhood Without Honor began as a group of displaced warriors, mercenaries, deserters and disenfranchised individuals (Slaves). Initially, they banded together out of necessity, seeking to survive in a world rife with danger and instability. Over time, their numbers grew as more outcasts and rebels joined their ranks, finding a place where they could thrive outside the strict hierarchies and laws of the established realms.

Goals and Ideals

Survival: The Brotherhood values survival above all else. They believe that only the strong and cunning deserve to thrive in the harsh world they inhabit. But strenght is also found in numbers and diversity, even the weak have place with them.

Freedom: They reject the rigid structures and authoritarian rule of the Nocturnam Dominion and the Oni Commonwealth, seeking to carve out a space where they can live by their own rules.

Revenge: Many in the Brotherhood have been wronged by the established powers, and there is a strong undercurrent of vengeance against those who have oppressed or betrayed them.

Leadership:

The Brotherhood is led by a council of the most respected and feared members, known as the Circle of Shadows. The current head of the Circle is Varek Bloodthorn, a ruthless and cunning former general who commands both fear and loyalty from his followers.

Structure:

The Brotherhood is loosely organized, with various cells operating semi-independently under the broader directives of the Circle of Shadows. This decentralization makes them difficult to eradicate, as they can quickly regroup and reorganize even after suffering losses.

Members:

The Brotherhood attracts a wide array of individuals, from former soldiers and mercenaries to thieves, assassins, and even disillusioned citizens. What unites them is a shared disdain for authority and a willingness to do whatever it takes to survive and prosper.

Perception:

Nocturnam Dominion: The Dominion sees the Brotherhood as a dangerous and destabilizing force, a group of lawless marauders who threaten the peace and order they strive to maintain.

Oni Commonwealth: The Commonwealth views the Brotherhood with a mixture of contempt and caution, recognizing their potential as a disruptive element but underestimating their organization and resolve.

Common Folk & Old World Remnants: Opinions among the common folk are mixed. While many fear the Brotherhood as ruthless bandits, others see them as a symbol of resistance against oppressive regimes.

Activities:

Raiding and Plundering: The Brotherhood is notorious for their raids on settlements, caravans, and outposts. They take what they need and leave destruction in their wake.

Espionage and Sabotage: They engage in espionage and sabotage against their enemies, undermining the efforts of the Nocturnam Dominion and the Oni Commonwealth whenever possible.

Mercenary Work: Occasionally, they hire themselves out as mercenaries, though their loyalty is always in question, and they are known to switch sides if it serves their interests.

Notable Figures:

Varek Bloodthorn: The current leader of the Brotherhood, a former general with a reputation for ruthless efficiency and strategic brilliance.
Lyra Blackshade: A master assassin and spy, Lyra is known for her ability to gather critical intelligence and eliminate key targets with deadly precision.
Gorak the Unbroken: A towering warrior and former gladiator, Gorak serves as the enforcer of the Brotherhood, leading the most brutal and direct assaults.

Symbols and Colors:

The Brotherhood’s symbol is a broken chain, representing their rejection of oppression and their commitment to freedom at any cost. Their colors are black and red, symbolizing the darkness they operate in and the blood they are willing to shed.

Headquarters:

The Brotherhood’s main stronghold is a hidden fortress deep within the wilderness, known as Shadowhold. It is heavily fortified and protected by layers of traps and defenses, making it nearly impregnable to outside forces. The Brotherhood Without Honor remains a powerful and enigmatic force, embodying the chaos and ruthlessness of a world in turmoil. Their actions and motives are driven by a complex blend of survival, vengeance, and a desire for freedom, making them both a formidable foe and an unpredictable ally.