Vell Quarth a vell Carad`Cessi
The Order of the Red Hand
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"You who come after me, scribbling these Annals, by now realize that I shy off portraying the whole truth about our band of blackguards. You know they are vicious, violent, and ignorant. They are complete barbarians, living out their cruellest fantasies, their behaviour tempered only by the presence of a few decent men. I do not often show that side because these men are my brethren, my family, and I was taught young not to speak ill of kin. The old habits die hardest."
Origins and History:
The Order of the Red Hand traces its origins to the shadows of history, its roots entwined with the elusive and enigmatic Shadow Elf Mercenary Companies. Founded centuries ago, these shadowy warriors once operated on the fringes of society, lending their deadly skills to the highest bidder. Over time, these mercenary companies dwindled, but one persisted, the Order of the Red Hand.
The order's history is shrouded in mystery, with records stretching back through the annals of time. Little is known about its founders, but whispers tell of a clandestine pact among the Shadow Elves, binding them to a higher purpose than mere profit.
Adaptation and Evolution:
As the world transformed, so did the order. Evolving from its mercenary roots, the Order of the Red Hand became a ruthlessly effective military unit, shedding its overt mercenary connections to operate in the shadows as a covert arm of Arethane's Military Intelligence.
The order's adaptability became its strength, and its members, a blend of skilled warriors and cunning operatives, honed their abilities in the clandestine arts. They became adept at handling threats that eluded conventional methods, be they political intrigues, subversive plots, or supernatural dangers.
Public Facade:
Publicly, the Order of the Red Hand maintains the facade of a mercenary band, taking contracts from various factions and kingdoms. This allows them to gather information, maintain a network of contacts, and keep their true nature hidden. The duality of their existence weaves a complex tapestry of deception and loyalty.
Code of Silence:
Members of the order adhere to a strict code of silence, a tradition passed down through generations. Loyalty to the order is paramount, and speaking ill of one's brethren is forbidden. This code, instilled from early induction, fosters a sense of family and camaraderie among the members, even as they operate in the shadows.
Unseen Guardians:
Operating under the Aspice of both The Order of the Shadow Walkers and The Order of the Black Scorpion, the true purpose of the Order of the Red Hand is to serve as unseen guardians of Arethane. They operate beyond the public eye, confronting threats that could destabilize the nation. Their loyalty to Arethane is unwavering, and their actions are driven by a sense of duty to protect their homeland from all forms of peril.
In the intricate dance of politics, espionage, and the supernatural, the Order of the Red Hand stands vigilant, its members embracing the shadows to ensure the safety and stability of Arethane, even as their deeds remain veiled in secrecy.