Hatred's Shadow
An exquisite leather-bound journal crafted with exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Adorning the front cover is the crest of Minmir Keep - An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power. Delicately inscribed into the leather beneath the emblem are the following words:
"Within the pages of this journal, you will discover a collection of accounts and texts detailing an event at Minmir Keep centered around the Icon of Undying Hate artifact during the late winter of 180 AR. This occurrence led to the emergence and release of the 'Shadow of Hatred' upon the isle of Arelith, orchestrated by the devoted followers of Bane."
COPY OF: "Emerald Wyrmling Sightings"
Note copied from the RH chapterhouse board
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Communique between members of the Radiant Heart Auxiliary:
Emerald Wyrmling Sightings
Be vigilant and aware, comrades. In recent days I have encountered an Emerald Wyrmling by the name of Hatred's Shadow in the Minmir region, particularly around the caves. You may see green flames as a sign he has hunted there.
Though the creature may have been lured here by the Banites and is suspected to be Banite, it's affiliation is unknown and it may yet be able to be swayed from the path of evil.
Report all sightings, remember that flattery and tribute goes a long way with dragons. But most importantly, remember who we are - servants of the light.
Day 11, Month 9 (Eleint), 181 AR
Ryana Durante
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Comment:
Both Ryana and her husband, Valesco are quite determined enemies of our faith, and both quite skilled in combat, they have been pests to us on a few occasions, do not underestimate them.
Day 13, Month 9 (Eleint), 181 AR
Artharg Monolith
[Torn Journal excerpt]
It has been a considerable span since the avatar was liberated from the Icon of Hatred, and there has been no trace of its whereabouts. No matter how diligently one listens to rumors or gazes at the sky, the silence persists. It is reasonable to assume that the avatar is either in seclusion, cultivating its strength, or has departed the island entirely with the intention of returning at a more opportune time.
Despite the uncertainty, my conviction remains steadfast. Regardless of the twists that fate may have in store for me, I am confident that Lord Bane has a meticulously crafted plan for this archipelago with the manifestation of HIS Hatred in dragon form, a divine retribution for the injustices inflicted upon HIS faith within these lands.
I fervently pray for the realization of such one day, although I acknowledge the possibility that it might not align with the duration of my existence. Nor will it fall within the approval of my family in Waterdeep or Aunt, who occupies Cordor's throne. Ultimately, however, what weight does a parent's validation carry when juxtaposed with that of a deity? I can confidently assert, none.
Day 4, Month 8 (Elasias (Highsun)), 181 AR
Kathryn Eldren
The Last March of Dread Brother Taknor
Join us in commemorating the life of our esteemed Brother Taknor as we accompany his remains on a brief ceremonial procession from Stonehold to Minmir Keep. Following the march, we will hold a service to pay our respects to the esteemed guardian of the cherished Icon and lay his remains to rest.
Day 8, Month 5 (Mirtul), 181 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Sencliff Banites
Calling the Sencliff Banites a cult is an overstatement. In truth, they are just a group of pirates sailing on The Destroyer under Lilah Sigers. Only her and Artharg Monolith are actual followers of Bane. They may have had more Banites in the past and perhaps they will attract more in the future, but right now, that is all there is to them.
Lilah Sigers
Female human bard, light brown hair, hazel eyes, seems young for a human. Carries staff and spellbook. Around neck is a symbol of Bane, adorned with bright green emerald jewels. Adept at detection. Strong but otherwise average build.
Lilah claims to be popular with the Dreadknights of Bane, and that they would prefer her rule over the Dreadlady's. She dislikes the supposed Cordorian elements within the Church, as she considers Cordor to be her biggest prey. She is most confident that she would still be welcomed within the Keep, and that no Dreadknight would ever raise arms against her.
Lilah further believes that Drow of House Zauviir are cooperating with Minmir Keep. These Drow launched an attack on her ship at some point and struck her down. She also claims that the Dreadlady herself attacked Andunor?s Hub disguised as Lilah with the goal of sowing distrust and misgivings against her in the Underdark.
While she admits to having no knowledge of the Green Fire incidents, she still believes the Dreadlady may have sacrificed humans within the Keep, perhaps even to an Entity that is not Bane. Thinks some artifact called "Icon of Hate" stored there may be related. Lilah gives out such information rather freely to anyone that would ask, it seems.
Sigers is dread-inked pirate and captain of the Destroyer, fastest ship on the seas apparently. Sails regularly, though some crewmates also pursue land campaigns. Typical sails may occur at 01:00 GMT (Gnomish Mean Time).
Lilah admitted to sacrificing various sea creatures, Cordorian sailors and Nelanther pirates to Bane. Despite this, she also claims to have never conducted human sacrifice of one she would consider a "peer". Whatever that means. She has Underdark contacts and allows Underdarkers to sail with her and tread on Sencliff. She will sometimes sail with Goblin Admiral Glub on the Dreadnought, as do many of her fellow crewmembers.
Associates
There seems to be no uniform or pin or anything of the sort that would help identify a Destroyer crew member by looking alone.
Trevor Highdale. Probable mate and lover of Lilah. Male human, former Cordorian, recently inked. Was struck by Lefric Ruston during ceremony. Monster hunter. Large and brawny, tanned skin, green eyes. Left hand has been replaced with Mithral hook. Wears furs and spiky pauldrons as well as amulet of Valkur. Curious pin with a sun and skull on it. Has permanent residence within the Destroyer.
Artharg Monolith. Male Unknown. Dreadknight of Minmir, has residence within the Keep. to Lilah and ONLY other Banite in her crew.
Mavihnal Rhonna. Dread Pirate. Destroyer crew. Unknown if still active.
Marco Azari. Dread Pirate. Destroyer crew. Won championship belt in Andunor. Accidentally sunk first Destroyer in storm,
Tad. Destroyer Crew. On vacation? Unknown if active.
River. Destroyer Crew. On vacation? Unknown if active.
Rovek Seskar. Liaison to Lilah regarding restoration of stolen altar. Exact role unclear. Unknown if Banite or pirate or neither. Could just be artisan or some such. Unknown if active.
Day 14, Month 3 (Ches), 181 AR
"Hunter"
Tea with Lady Ginny
Lady Ginny of Cordor and her husband extended an invitation for tea. As anticipated, during our meeting, the couple seized the opportunity to inquire about the occurrences at Minmir Keep. About halfway through our discussion, Thomas urgently beckoned her husband, Dax, to accompany him on a mission to apprehend a pirate lurking on a distant island.
I subsequently briefed Lady Ginny on our cover story, explaining that we had conducted a ritual aimed at altering the elven curse afflicting Minmir. Our pretense involved prolonging the time lock spell reset duration beyond a single day.
There is no necessity for the general members of our Keep to be privy to all the intricacies. We should adhere to the narrative disseminated publicly, and if any inquiries arise, kindly direct them to me.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 24, Month 2 (Alturiak), 181 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Restricted Information: Icon of Undying Hatred/Shadow of Hatred
Attn: Warmaster; High Imperceptor; and, Dreadknights.
I've initiated the procedure to categorize and remove any data associated with the Icon of Undying Hatred Incident from public platforms and forums. Access to this information will be limited to authorized personnel, and a master copy will be securely held by me.
Please ensure publicly shared information undergoes a thorough review to uphold our established cover story.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 24, Month 2 (Alturiak), 181 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Artharg's assorted notes and observations
Three days ago I managed to get myself into a meeting between a Radiant Heart officer with a long name called Valesco and Lilah.
He was there to try and get information about us. As he did not know me, I told him that I was no longer a member and pretended to have an innacurate version of the story to provoke him into correcting me.
I told him if he tells me everything he knows ill tell him what the icon is.
Naturally he lied a lot, and gave me an account of the events that made him and his allies look much better than they actually were, but i still learned a bit about what they know.
Unfortunately Thomas Castlemont was sitting in a corner invisible and out of true sight range eavesdropping so presumably him and his allies will be convinced i am not part of the keep, though perhaps I can use this to my advantage somehow.
What I got out of him roughly amounts to;
-They know about some form of sacrificing
-They suspect the icon was a way to summon "an avatar of Bane"
-They suspect that whatever ritual happened failed partially or fully
-He theorised that the sacrifices could be us killing dissidents/traitors
What I told him:
-That the Icon is a defence mechanism for the keep
-That we are actively engaged in conflict with a Drow faction
-That the sacrifices were either captured Drow, or a means to activate the icon to defend the keep from them
What to take out of all of this:
-The RH and their Riv/Cordor allies know way more than they should and we should continue assuming this.
-The RH might attack us at some point, potentially soon (this was suggested by another member yesterday, and I agree)
-Whatever we decide to tell people we should use pieces of the information here, if we 'accidentally' confirm one of their false assumptions that is likely going to convince them.
-I heard that they tried to demand an 'inspection' of the keep, if we want to take a more diplomatic route, it might be an idea to let a single one of them and give them a tour guide, naturally humiliating them a little bit during it.
As a sidenote, Cleric Simon has proven himself to be worthy to be here, dare I suggest we grant him a somewhat more senior role, and more specifically grant him access to this intel board so he knows more about what is going on.
Day 24, Month 2 (Alturiak), 181 AR
Artharg Monolith
Calamity at Minmir Keep
Approximately three days ago, an unfortunate incident unfolded during a ritual aimed at breaking the curse that has long sustained my distant cousin's eternal undeath. Regrettably, the endeavor proved unsuccessful, and instead of witnessing the long-awaited lifting of Earl Manfried's blight, a magical backlash, in the form of emerald green flames, wrought havoc upon both Minmir Keep and the sacred Temple.
To compound this tragedy, we mourn the loss of the esteemed and dedicated Dread Brother Taknor, who sacrificed his very life essence in an attempt to safeguard this most Holiest of Temples, dedicated to our Lord Bane.
In my role as the Steward of Minmir Keep, I accept full responsibility for the dire situation we currently face. To those loyal individuals who have been adversely affected by this calamity, I assure you of my unwavering support on your path to recovery. To those absent from the Keep when this unfortunate incident occurred, understand that I am fully dedicated to restoring all that has been harmed and repairing the trust you have invested in me.
The process of reconstruction will commence immediately and will be funded from my personal accounts. If you have any inquiries or are seeking compensation for the hardships you've endured, do not hesitate to contact me directly.
In the name of Bane, we will overcome this tragedy and emerge from it stronger and more deserving than ever before.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 23, Month 2 (Alturiak), 181 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Genesis: Shadow of Hatred
Through the unwavering dedication of our faithful followers, our divine mission has finally come to fruition.
On the 19th day of the second month in the year 181 AR, after a solemn ceremony involving the collected life force of those offered upon the altar as a sacrifice in the weeks before, the long-dormant egg nestled within the Icon of Undying Hate's Doom Hand miraculously hatched. The event was accompanied by a spectacular outburst of emerald flames, consuming Minmir Keep and the sacred temple. Followers of our faith gathered under the direction of Dread Brother Taknor who declared, "Hatred's shadow will be baptized in blood in the depths of Gehenna. The Icon will release its essence. A faithful will be imbued with it. Then I shall become the conduit that opens the gate to His domain. If the faithful falls, the shadow will be lost. If I am too weak, it will be lost."
Offering myself as the conduit, the Icon's power was transferred, permitting Dread Brother Taknor to establish a passage to Banehold at the cost of his eternal undead existence. Joined by Caleb Runestream, Simon Lyonsdale, and Verta Sataa, we ventured through the portal and quested upon the black sands of our Lord's realm, harvesting the lives of the creatures found there to nourish the burgeoning Avatar. After an ample toll was taken, the portal was reopened and returned to Minmir Keep, where we witnessed the awakening of the infant Shadow of Hatred, a small wyrmling exhibiting the physique of a green dragon but covered entirely in white scales, while its eyes shine with an emerald light.
While we endeavored to persuade the dragon to remain safely within Minmir Keep, allowing us to gather more sacrifices for its growth, the newly born Avatar, speaking in draconic, declared, "I am sated, and yet I hunger. This land, it shall be my hunting ground. I know you aided me in my release, so I shall not eat you. In time, I will know, I will learn, I will grow. I have slumbered long. I have dreamt of flame and rivers of blood." After which, it took flight to distant horizons.
Our sacred task is fulfilled with the birth and release of the Hatred's Shadow. What unfolds henceforth will be guided by Bane's will through this new instrument of HIS purpose.
Moreover, following the awakening, it has become widely known across the isle that Minmir Keep was engulfed in green flames during a significant event. We know this as a prominent force from Cordor and the Raident Heart Chapter had gathered at the Keeps door, demanding answers to the green flames. However, the true nature of this occurrence remains a closely guarded secret, known only to our inner circle, to protect the fledgling creature. To veil the truth, we shall maintain that we conducted a ritual aimed at dispelling Earl Manfried's curse, which regrettably backfired and caused damage to the Keep.
The knowledge of the Hatred's Shadow must be safeguarded to ensure its survival for as long as possible. We shall diligently collect and record all reports and sightings of the dragon.
In the name of Bane, His Hatred shall ultimately triumph.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 23, Month 2 (Alturiak), 181 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Second Awakeining: Icon of Undying Hate
Upon my return from morning patroul i was shocked to see Church in flames. Magic fire covered doorways, was visible on the Blackhand sigils EVERYWHERE around the keep, but moust intense fires were at the sanctum.
Mallin was already at the sanctum upon my arrival and I've summoned Art to join. Brother Tankor spoke to us stating that Icons hatred must be contained in a vessel of sorts. Talking with riddles he told us we will need "Crystal Ball... Acid and Fire" as well as braizers and ritual circle.
We presented him with what he demanded. And he gave us approval.
As he stated Faithfull should watch the flames, when they will rise more we should star ritual to contain icon and ignite new vessel with hatred.
The orb is now placed at the sactum, in the curcle used to test faith. It should be protected by all costs.
A sigil is depicted in wax just beneath the signature. An imposing stone Keep and perched atop it, a vigilant dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power. Set delicately behind the Keep and its sentinel is a polished emerald gem.
Day 20, Month 1 (Hammer (Deepwinter)), 181 AR
Tribunia Leonara
In the year 181 AR, it is with solemnity that we declare the guilt of Navar Valle in committing acts of treason and betrayal against the Faithful of Bane within the hallowed confines of Minmir Keep. This declaration is based on compelling witness testimonies and a written confession.
As a consequence of his grave transgressions, I hereby announce the immediate EXCOMMUNICATION of Navar Valle from the Church of Bane in Minmir, including the revocation of his previously bestowed title and all associated privileges.
Furthermore, owing to the gravity of his offenses, which included transgressions against a Sister of the Faith and his steadfast refusal to seek atonement, Navar Valle has been condemned to face judgment before our Lord Bane. His EXECUTION has been carried out to answer for his crimes, and the matter is now settled.
To those valiant individuals who played a crucial role in the tracking and capture of this treacherous soul, a reward of 100,000 coins has been duly transferred to your accounts.
Praise be unto Bane.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 8, Month 1 (Hammer (Deepwinter)), 181 AR
Kathryn Eldren
I did a mistake.
Brother Irienal informed me of a assasination attempt to a friend of mine, one i had on skal called Marie cain, i went to met her, and after recieving a description of the assasin i had little doubts
It was the Yuan-ti, my nemesis, Xers.
I told them of that, and also of Wren friendship with suh individual, i believed like this i could have pushed the good bendirians people in help my friend wren out of that hole of chaos she became found of
Despise Been asked to not share my name in any report and make sure no one knew it was me, i overstimated them, They told Wren evrything, and she tried to blame me to be the assasin.
Uselsess to say, the word of a beutiful busty half-elven woman is more trustworthy than mine, so Bendir was sure i was the one who killed Marie...for prove my innocence i accepted to be arrested.
They casted zone of truth on me under my request, and i told them everything, not information on the keep plans but abaut my identity as a member of the keep and my innocence in the killing of my former friend Marie
The mayor of the town is convinced of my innocence now and allowed me to go even if adviced me to abbandon the faith of Bane as does not suit me.
But yes, With this information i was hoping they would have hided now public, Wren know i exposed her to be a underdarker symphatizer to the Dale, and if i know her, and i do, she will not be happy-
Day 2, Month 1 (Hammer (Deepwinter)), 181 AR
Navar Valle
Public Post: You are very sweet Kathryn
Copied from Minmir Public Message Board:
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Kathryn:
Thank you for coming to visit me in Sencliff to post this same letter there. I wonder if my... "welcome party" has met you yet?
In any case. As I said on my previous letter, I have no need for your moldy keep!
Especially with whats been happening with the icon there, human sacrifice, really Kathryn?
Was that what you had plan for one member of my crew to feed the rot?
They wanted a heretic. Kathryn they wanted you.
You who made these Dreadknights kneel to you and beholden to you like they are paladins taking oaths to you.
No. Kathryn.
We only kneel to Bane.
No noble, no queen, no king.
Only Bane.
I hope the Dreadknights realize this. It is part of our Banite Dogma. I am sure some of them know.
I will inspire them more so that they may eventually feed you to the rot, hopefully it will close.
Come visit again when I am around. Id like to see your face.
Also, I know you are craving power, but, you still cant go to my ship, no matter how many times you visit me in Sencliff or write me sweet love letters like below.
Love,
Lilah
Day 8, Month 12 (Nightal), 180 AR
Lilah Sigers
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Dark Blessings,
Shadows of the Hand
Agent #426
Day 24, Month 2 (Alturiak), 181 AR
Anonymous
Excommunication: Dread Pirate Lilah Sigers
In the year 180 AR, Dread Pirate Lilah Sigers, also known as the Dreadmistress of Sencliff and a devoted priestess of Our Lord Bane, was received into the Keep of Minmir. Later, she was appointed as the High Imperceptor overseeing the Church of Bane within our organization. However, her actions and statements have revealed a different interpretation of our Lord's will and strategy for the future, which diverges from our own.
Thus, I hereby announce the immediate excommunication of Lilah Sigers from the Church of Bane in Minmir, including the revocation of her previously bestowed title of High Imperceptor and all associated privileges.
To Lilah Sigers, I offer this counsel: Seek guidance in Faith, but do not overly rely on the powers it provides. While a priestess of Bane you might be, such a blessing does not guarantee position nor authority within Minmir Keep. Such Power can only be earned and not merely demanded with threats of bloodshed and chaos. Place your trust solely in HIM and his plans, Dread Captain, for you have forfeited any trust you once held from me.
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To the Faithful of Arelith,
The current dynamics within the Faith of Lord Bane throughout the archipelago can sometimes be perplexing and misconstrued. While many are familiar with HIS independent temple in Minmir Keep and the Zhentarim embassy in Guldorand's Fortress capital, few are aware of the smaller, separate groups across Arelith that carry out HIS will, each with its unique interpretation of the Faith. It is crucial not to generalize and condemn these diverse organizations as one. The fragmented structure and varying purposes of the Faith often reflect our Lord Bane's desire to test his followers. So, do not lose heart in your journey of enlightenment; the path set by the Black Hand awaits you, whether it leads you to Minmir or any of these groups serving HIS divine purpose.
Understand that Minmir Keep will continue to welcome pilgrims and servants of our Lord Bane and the Maiden Loviatar, as well as those who are lost and seeking guidance. Whether the faithful choose to do so is entirely up to them.
Praise Bane.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 7, Month 12 (Nightal), 180 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Brief Report - Shadow of the Hand
Captain Sigers has finally responded, and posted her response on many boards, I have done my best to pluck as many of them off our boards as possible.
One still remains outside on the message board next to the shop.
We also spoke with and talked with Lord Deepwater, he desires to join the church officially and stopped by to acquire a few phrasebooks.
Artharg spoke with Captain Sigers directly for quite some time, seek him out for an update, as well as its of general opinion that Lord Deepwater may be an agent for the opposing order that threatens us.
It is our advice, that we should proceed with caution regarding him. His notice has been included with this one along with the notices from Captain Siger.
Dark Blessings,
Shadows of the Hand
Day 5, Month 12 (Nightal), 180 AR
"Minmir Knight"
A Letter Addressed to Kathryn Eldren, Minmir Keep:
Kathryn:
You are a weak leader, and you lie on your public address there regarding me. Let me tell you what happened at the ship: We were getting ready to sail, you were missing god knows where you went, not that I can keep track of you, you hide your face when you go to Sencliff to visit with me.
We were on deck and a series of wisps came recalling all Dreadknights to the keep, and ONE member of my crew.
I thought this was suspicious. So I stopped it.
You placed a command, among my crew who are on board The Destroyer ship thinking the deck is yours to command, and I yours to command.
No Kathryn, you have been mistaken. I am a Dread Captain of Sencliff. No Cordorian Noble shall command my ship nor my crew.
You have crossed the line and now the retribution will come.. in trickles first.. then waves? until you have vacated that imaginary seat of power that you have in HIS HOLY CHURCH.
What you are is a gatekeeper. No substance. No POWER FROM THE DIVINE DARK LORD LIKE I DO.
I don?t have any interest in owning the keep, taking over it, nor your meager resources therein. I do well for my own thank you very much. I prefer the freedom of sailing The Destroyer, and the cool salt air on my face while I pursue Cordorian vessels at sea and sink them.
But you know this already, you have been on board my ship many times and you even manned the mangonel in order to sink the Iron Throne Courier.
Isnt it ehiulirating? That power in your hands, one click.. A WHOLE SHIP?. Full of people? sinking. Dying.
You, on the other hand is not allowed to board my ship anymore.. You?ve tasted power like that.. you crave it.. and so you put up a tantrum, locked me out of your moldy keep.
Did you think I would demand to be let in again? No.
I hate your boring meetings. Your idiiotic paper work. And I do also hate you.
I prefer sinking ships, killing people, especially Cordorians, in the name of our Dark LORD BANE. OUT THERE, in the Freedom of the Sea!
GLORY TO HIS NAME!!!
MAY THE WEAK FROM HIS FLOCK BE CULLED!
MAY THE BLOOD FLOW AND CLEANSE THIS KEEP OF THE ROT AND WEAKNESS!!
So Says,
High Imperceptor Sigers
Day 3, Month 12 (Nightal), 180 AR
Lilah Sigers
Minmir Keep Register
As of the date signed, the roster for Minmir Keep's personnel is as follows:
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OFFICERS
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Dreadlady kathryn Eldren
Warmaster Tribunia Leonara
Trade Mistress Elizabth
Dreadknight Rovek Seskar
Dreadknight Artharg Monolith
Shadowlord of the Blackhand [Redacted]
High Imperceptor Lilah Sigers
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PERSONAL
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Eobard Chonk
Donan Welm
Adenious Craftlace
Geoffrey
Irienel
Navar Valle
Caleb Runestream
Dinia Dian
Wren
Kazen Tessarik
Sani
Verta Sataa
Allisara Xyrlen
Day 1, Month 12 (Nightal), 180 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Minmir Keep Member Loyalty and Security Assessment
To the Officers of Minmir Keep,
I have requested that our current members report in and reaffirm their commitment to our cause. It is crucial that we conduct a thorough assessment of those who have access to the Keep, especially as we delve into matters concerning the Icon. Future operations demand a heightened level of security and confidentiality. Therefore, it is imperative that we verify the loyalty and standing of all current members of the Keep. If we receive no communication within seven threedays (week's time), we will assume that they have departed from Arelith, and their access will be revoked until they reestablish contact.
Utilize the provided member list to confirm the presence of those listed and document your interactions accordingly. There is no need to contact individuals with whom we have had recent interactions.
Our primary objectives in this confirmation process are as follows:
1) Confirm their continued presence on the island and their well-being.
2) Assess their loyalties: Do they maintain affiliations with other settlements or factions? We have no qualms about such connections as long as they do not present a conflict of interest.
3) Determine whether they wish to remain a part of the Keep and, if so, confirm their awareness of recent developments while securing an oath of loyalty and confidentiality.
You are all astute and discerning individuals. Exercise your best judgment when evaluating the Faithful. If something appears amiss, trust your instincts. Feel free to grant or deny access based on your own discretion.
May Bane's guidance steer your actions.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 1, Month 12 (Nightal), 180 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Revelation: Icon of Undying Hate
Last thrine, a significant event unfolded within the depths of the lower temple concerning the Icon of Undying Hate, a relic from ages long past. Having been long neglected by the former rulers of the fortress, the Icon had developed an insatiable thirst for power, a dire need for "Strength." Tragically, this power deficiency led to the temporary demise of Dread Brother Taknor, his unlife sustained by the very essence of the Icon.
The ensuing "thirst" caused the holy flames embodying the ceaseless hatred of our Lord Bane to surge through the chamber, relentlessly burning and devouring all who dared to approach. Through the combined efforts of devoted worshippers and "volunteer" sacrifices procured from the vast lands of Minmir by our diligent agents, the Icon's hunger was temporarily sated. With its strength replenished, Dread Brother Taknor was resurrected, rescuing the remaining faithful from the now-subsiding inferno. Following this ordeal, it was clear that the Sacred Relic must be continuously nourished with an adequate supply of "sacrifices of strength" from worthy individuals. Dread Brother Taknor also stated if fully empowered and restored, the relic could potentially guide the Faith on Arelith back to its former grandeur.
Those who played a part in this incident suffered severe physical and spiritual injuries as a direct or indirect consequence of their encounter with the Sacred Relic's need. The extent of these effects varies from person to person, though they should not be feared. To have been touched by the warping flames of our Lord Bane's Hate and survive is a testament to Faith and purpose. Let your experience from within the fires guide you in things to come.
Armed with this newfound understanding, our Faith and Fortress shall chart a new course toward restoring what was once lost.
Praise be unto Bane.
Signed,
Kathryn Eldren, Dreadlady of Minmir Keep
Lady Protector of The Church of Bane
The sigil of Minmir Keep is depicted in wax just beneath the signature: An imposing stone keep and perched atop it, a vigilant green dragon spreading its wings in an impressive display of power.
Day 25, Month 11 (Uktar), 180 AR
Kathryn Eldren
Attn: Dread Captain Lilah Sigers & Members of Minmir Keep
MEMBERS OF MINMIR KEEP:
Relayed via a trusted intermediary, Lilah Sigers has forbidden access to her ship in what appears to be a retaliatory action to my summons of her in a time of emergency last thrine. In light of the situation, it is advisable to respect this request and abstain from direct involvement in any matters concerning the Captain, her crew, or their personal disputes with other factions until this issue is resolved.
DREAD CAPTAIN SIGERS:
Your relayed message left more to be desired. Considering your actions and statements, I have suspended your access to Minmir Keep's secured areas until we can speak. I suggest you reach out to me when you can settle this matter. Until then, you no longer have the authority to utilize Keep resources or personnel for your own objectives. Please manage your Pirate affairs with the crew you hold in high regard and refrain from involving the loyal members of this fortress.
Day 24, Month 11 (Uktar), 180 AR
Kathryn Eldren