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Daggerhand

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The '''Daggerhand''' are one of several syndicates that call [[Sunberth]] their home. Known for being honorless thieves and thugs, these men constantly fight over control of the city without rest. As lawless as the city they partially rule, this group is notorious for going on small campaigns of genocide and murder just for the sake of instilling fear and panic among the common folk of Sunberth, and so far their scare tactics have kept most potential enemies silent...
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[[File:DH3.jpg|thumb|Bloodshed is Our Native Tongue.]]
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==History==
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'''Daggerhand''' is one of the three most notable gangs residing in [[Sunberth]]. Easily the most nefarious of the criminal organizations, Daggerhand is regarded as little more than a congregation of thugs by the city at large. In recent history, it was arguably the most powerful gang in the whole of Sunberth; but that strength has since been lost with the execution of [[Robern Dalagnar]]. At present, the organization is a wounded shadow of its former glory and clings to the small scraps of territory that remains in its control. With enemies on all sides, the coming days will be difficult for the organization, but it is determined to survive and take back their mantle of power.
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The history of the Daggerhand Syndicate is quite short as the organization is as new as the other two primary factions in [[Sunberth]]. The story begins with the immigration of a man named Robern Dalagnar to Sunberth, from the city of Zeltiva with his wife and daughter. This man had a scheme in mind, and as educated as he was, he knew just the way to achieve his goals. Sunberth would listen to a voice claiming to ease the hardships of life. They ate up his words about a higher standard of living, and offered up his support in hungry fanaticism. People joined him to protect him, to further his goals, and before the people of Sunberth realized they were empowering the very thing they had fought against since before the [[Valterrian]], they had another power-hungry tyrant that was next-to-impossible to take down.  
+
== History ==
 +
Much like the other two most influential gangs of Sunberth, the history of Daggerhand is rather brief. Having risen to power over the course of two decades, the organization is as "young" as its counterparts; yet is arguably the eldest of the three. Daggerhand began its rise to power through the arrival of a single man, known as Robern Dalagnar, to Sunberth. Hailing from [[Zeltiva]], this man was highly-educated and politically savvy due to his years spent attending the University. However, he did not flaunt these characteristics and instead adopted a mask of charity. His was a new and charismatic voice that the people of Sunberth hearkened to. They were enticed by his promises of a higher standard of living; and soon many laid down their loyalty at his feet. In time, Dalagnar amassed a following which dedicated itself to his protection and the fulfillment of his goals.
-
It was in the Spring of AV 504 when Robern's Family was attacked, it was strange for the Night Eyes to retaliate in such an obvious manner, but in the attack, Robern's wife was killed. Robern's daughter too was harmed, though she would escape with only half of her face burned away by deadly poison, something that would scar her forever. Though this event meant little to Sunberth at first, it would completely alter Robern's personality. After this event, his hatred for the Night Eyes, which was only minor annoyance until then, was ignited and Dalagnar declared an all-out war. Sunberth was the Battlefield.
+
However, whilst Dalagnar's public face had many eating out of the palms of his hands, his alias worked another angle from the shadows. Taking the pseudonym "Rot Fingers", Dalagnar began to feel out the political landscape of the city whilst rallying support from a variety of businesses. It took meticulous precision and care to sway these establishments to his cause, yet Dalangar accomplished it all in a relatively brief span of time. As both his public and underground power grew, the people began to realize that they had allowed a monster into their midst. Almost overnight, the talks of bettering the lives of Sunberthians ended and ruthlessness took its place. In fact, Dalagnar became just as power-hungry and tyrannical as the rulers that Sunberth had fought against since the [[Valterrian]]. As time raced forward, Dalagnar's enemies began to grow and clash with his supporters. Violence erupted in the streets; ultimately encouraging an assassination attempt upon Dalagnar himself.
-
Today, Robern almost never goes outside. The man has his own home, which is next to impregnable thanks to his Daggerhand Soldiers and Spies. To reach Robern himself is considered impossible, though with each passing year, it seems his grasp over Sunberth grows and tightens.
+
Launched by the [[The Night Eyes|Night Eyes]], the attack claimed the life of Dalagnar's wife and left his daughter's face horrifically scarred by poison. Enraged, elected then to reveal the whole of his might to the city. Dropping his pseudonym, he then called together the whole of his supporters and united them under a single banner as Daggerhand. With his organization finally mustered, he marked the Night Eyes for annihilation...but soon found that destroying them would be as difficult as wounding the very shadows themselves. Regardless, Dalagnar wielded his power in order to practically terrorize the city. He carved out for himself a sizable portion of territory and erected a manor to call home. In light of the attempted assassination, this was where Dalagnar ultimately holed himself up whilst his subordinated carried out his will.
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==Allies and Enemies==
+
From outright massacres in the streets to shaking down establishments for coin, Daggerhand committed numerous atrocities in the name of their leader. They became hated by many and feared by most...Yet all "good" things eventually come to an end. After years upon years of tolerating the violence of Daggerhand, the denizens of Sunberth rose up. A mob of vigilantes and citizens alike stormed the Daggerhand territory and set fire to the "Rotten Mansion". Dalagnar was dragged out of his sanctuary and promptly lynched before the masses; thereby causing chaos within the ranks.
-
Being a syndicate with total domination as their primary goal, the Daggerhand of Sunberth have a large list of enemies, though most aren't worth mentioning.
+
=== Enter Stiletto ===
 +
The mob claimed the lives of many Daggerhand immediately following Dalagnar's death, with many more members defecting out of fear for their lives. This all but crippled the organization, yet in this time of chaos Dalagnar's most trusted subordinates stepped up. Of these, an individual known as "[[Stiletto]]" took the reins of what remained of Daggerhand. This person took great care to veil their identity to the point where even gender is a mystery; yet, it is assumed that it is a male. Some debate whether or not Stiletto even exists, or if he is simply a persona put together by Dalagnar's circle of Underbosses. However, under his leadership, Daggerhand managed to hold fast to what little remained of its territory. At present, Stiletto works to restore the organization to fighting shape whilst maintaining as many money sources as possible.
-
* [[The Sun's Birth]]: The most open and obvious enemy of the Daggerhand. They are centered in the Gated Community, which almost acts as a small fortress for their mighty warriors.
+
== The Organization ==
-
* [[The Night Eyes]]: The most hated by Robern himself. The Night Eyes favor the shadows, so many are hesitant to believe in their existence at all.
+
Following its near decimation, much of the strength of Daggerhand was lost. However, the organization remains one of the most deadly congregations in the whole of Sunberth. While far from being militant, wealthy, or well-equipped, its power lies in its sheer numbers. To date, the vast majority of their midst is concentrated within what remains of their territory, yet it is far from uncommon to see packs of its members roaming the streets.
-
* '''Dastana Nariette:''' Dastana, though definitely a nuisance to Robern, is hardly considered an enemy. She is a thorn in his side, but with the war against the other Syndicates, he chooses to ignore her when he can.
+
 +
*'''Headquarters:''' Robern's Reaches (Sunberth)
 +
*'''Members:''' ~200
 +
*'''Hierarchy:''' Rank by Ability
 +
*'''Leader:''' The Boss - Stiletto
 +
*'''Symbol:''' Thorn-Encircled Dagger
-
* '''Old Legs:''' Ol' Legs of the Sunberth Wharf is known for being a powerful man in his own. He's one of Robern's longtime allies.
+
== Hierarchy ==
-
* '''Merv:''' He's an informant to Robern. If an interesting person enters his tavern, chances are Robern will know.
+
[[File:DH2.png|thumb|The Symbol of Daggerhand.]]
-
* '''Brega:''' She's an informant and great source of income. Brega is known for having eyes and ears all over the city thanks to her harlots.
+
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==Hierarchy of the Daggerhand==
+
Prior to the demise of its founder, the internal structure of Daggerhand enjoyed a stability founded upon undying loyalty to Dalagnar. However, upon his execution, chaos ensued within the ranks as members began attempts to seize power for themselves. It was only through the combined efforts of Stiletto and the Underbosses that some semblance of order was enforced upon the ranks. At present, Daggerhand currently knows stability...although how long it will last is the primary question on the organization's mind.
-
The following list is the existing official ranks within the Daggerhand Organization, and the approximate numbers in each rank.
+
Currently leadership of Daggerhand resides in the hands of the Boss: Stiletto. This individual is (typically) the undisputed leader of the organization and oversees all of its operations. Directly underneath the Boss are four Underbosses; each of whom lea approximately fifty men. These individuals place their focus on the maintenance of Daggerhand control over its territory; in addition to launching ventures to gain more for the organization. Each Underboss appoints a pair of Big Brothers or Big Sister who then lead their men towards the fulfillment of Daggerhand's goals. Each Big Brother or Big Sister commands half of their Underbosses' subordinates (most of whom are of Brother/Sister rank); and are easily the most public faces of Daggerhand's command structure.
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* '''Thug:''' This group is the largest group, with roughly 300 men. They are the most common, and basic, warrior of the Daggerhand
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The majority of Daggerhand are of he rank Brother or Sister. These individuals have been recognized as full members of the organization and are given the privileges thereof. It is upon reaching this rank that an individual is given the Daggerhand tattoo and is fully welcomed into the fold. In times past, the population of Brothers and Sisters paled in comparison to the number of common thus who lent their support to the organization. These individuals had no standing or rights but received a cut of coin for services rendered. However, in the wake of Dalagnar's execution, a light paranoia has gripped the organization. So much so that Thugs who were not committed to fully joining the organization are not afforded the honor of association. Those that Thugs that do aspire to join fall into loose cells led by a Brother or Sister until such time that they prove themselves worthy of membership.
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* '''Warrior:''' This group holds roughly 100 men. They perform the same tasks as Thugs, except are generally trusted with more important tasks as well.
+
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* '''Boss:''' Not to be mistaken with Robern himself, there are roughly 20 bosses in the Daggerhand at any time. These men prove to not only be skilled fighters, but talented leaders. They have the power to command Warriors and Thugs at any time, for any task. Failure to obey is death.
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* '''Red Rats:''' Roughly 30 men. These men, who are not physically equipped to rise above (or sometimes to) the rank of Thug, find themselves valuable to Robern in other ways. These men are the rats that tell all they see to Robern. People like Brega, Merve, and Ol' Legs are considered to be this. Most of these people have their own underlings.
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* '''Red Hand:''' The Red Hand is a small group of eight, no more and no less, men who are very skilled and used only for the most important of missions. To become a Red Hand, one must only be a part of the Daggerhand, and to kill a Red Hand in a fair fight. If the man that kills a Red Hand, does not take the place of the slain, he is killed by anyone willing to make a nice amount of gold.
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* '''Red Guard:''' These men tend to fluctuate between 3 and 15 men. They are the personal guard for Robern's daughter, and their title changes often.
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* '''Others:''' There are a myriad of other positions that aren't large enough, or important enough to be mentioned. They range from petty thieves in Robern's pocket, to inside men of other organizations.
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==Traditions of the Daggerhand==
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On another note, there are members of Daggerhand whose roles call for discretion. These individuals are typically business owners or are generally informed enough to be sources of information for the organization. Known as Associates, these members are few in number; yet vital in role. A notable example of a Daggerhand Associate is Merv of the Pig's Foot Tavern.
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The Daggerhand have few organization wide traditions, though they are known for, every first, thirty-first, and sixty-first of each season to have a massive brawl among themselves. This event is much like a competition, in that nearly 500 members will fight in the nude (to ensure no weapons are used/hidden) in one massive free-for-all match. Non-Daggerhand are allowed to fight, but most that do are beaten literally to death, just for being an outsider.
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== Motivation and Goals ==
 +
Under the leadership of Dalagnar, the organization had many great aspirations. They sought to strike fear into the hearts and minds of Sunberth through brutal demonstrations of might. They sought to dominate and control as much of the city as they possibly could. They sought to see immense wealth and to revel in the pleasures of life; regardless of how many are harmed in the process. Of course, such violent and avaricious goals ultimately resulted in the execution of Dalagnar and the plunging of the organization into Chaos. In light of their current predicament, the leaders of the organization placed new emphasis on a single goal: survival. To accomplish this task, Daggerhand has actually become even more hostile than before; simply in order to project the illusion of internal stability and power despite Dalagnar's death.
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Besides the Big Brawls, the Daggerhand are known for initiating all their members (excluding those that are secretly affiliated with the Daggerhand) with a tattoo of a red dagger circled by a ring of thorns right on the upper left chest. This is a symbol that means two things. First, it is that person's allegiance to the Syndicate, and second, it tells everyone else where to drive the dagger, should the person be a traitor.
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As a whole, Daggerhand is concerned with the maintenance of its territory and amassing enough new blood to return to prominence within Sunberth. They goals epitomized by Dalagnar in life are, of course, still strived for as well. With each and every day, the organization works towards these ends with the subjugation of Sunberth being its ultimate goal.
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Lastly, all traitors, or captive enemies, of the Daggerhand are either hanged outside the Rotting mansion, or executed in a number of different ways. Sometimes, the captive is given to the lower ranks, who are allowed to do whatever they want to the victim before death follows. Other times, a simple stoning, drowning, or torturing-to-death will due.
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== Allies and Enemies ==
 +
[[Sun's Birth]]: Over the course of their relatively short histories, both the Sun's Birth and Daggerhand have been openly hostile with one another. It is not uncommon to see violence between the two organizations erupt in the streets; regardless of their current, wounded states.
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==Recruitment into the Daggerhand==
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[[The Night Eyes|Night Eyes]]: Personally despised by Dalagnar for the murder of his wife, Daggerhand has been openly hostile with the Night Eyes for several years. Although it has been difficult to combat the stealth-centric order, Daggerhand diligently seeks out its foe at every turn.
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...
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=== Associates ===
 +
'''Ol'Legs:''' The owner of the Legs Wharf has been a longtime friend of Dalagnar and an associate of Daggerhand since the day of its creation. It is through this particular relationship that the organization is able to levy tariffs upon goods coming into the city.
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==Required Skills==
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'''Merv:''' The owner of the most popular tavern in Sunberth is also an associate of Daggerhand. Merv is an informant to the organization and provides vital information about any happenings or individuals of note. It is safe to say that any person of note who had entered the Pigs Foot has been spoken of to the Daggerhand.
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Before being considered for membership into the Daggerhand, each candidate must acquire a certain level of combat prowess. Although some specific tasks, jobs, or positions require different skills, this list should provide the lowest position's requirements:
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'''Brega:''' This individual provides a vital service to Daggerhand through her brothel. Those under her employ serve as eyes and ears to Daggerhand and provide the organization with heaps of intelligence from every corner of the city.
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* '''Male:''' Although it's not impossible, being female makes joining the Daggerhand very difficult. In this case, exceptional strength, wit, and creativity is required to join the ranks.
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== Joining and Advancement ==
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* '''Weapon Skills:''' To be a basic soldier or "Thug" of the Daggerhand, one must first obtain a minimum of one skill based on a weapon to level 35. This includes, but is not restricted to: swords, knives or daggers, clubs, axes, bows or crossbows, throwing knives/spears/axes. Unarmed combat can be a substitute, but level must be much higher.
+
Of the three organizations which dominate the city of Sunberth, joining the ranks of Daggerhand is by far the least difficult. A potential member need only to demonstrate their interest in joining Daggerhand to a member of Brother/Sister rank or higher. Upon demonstrating interest, this individual will then be tentatively inducted under the leadership of the aforementioned Brother/Sister. During this time frame, their superior will put the potential member to the test through a variety of ventures. They will be expected to kill. They will be expected to shake down establishments. They will be expected to demonstrate the ruthlessness required to stand alongside the Daggerhand. If the individual proves themselves through these ventures, they will be fully accepted within Daggerhand and marked accordingly.
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* '''Weaponless Skills:''' In combat, especially in Sunberth, combat often happens when you are least prepared, therefore all Daggerhand must be able to hold their own in a fight without their favored weapon at hand. A minimum of one skill of level 30 must be obtained. This includes unarmed combat, wrestling, brawling.
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* '''Strength:''' Above all, the Daggerhand look at physical strength as true power. All members must have a minimum of one skill of physical fitness to level 30, or two at 20. Skills include Running, Swimming, Bodybuilding, Acrobatics, Climbing, Brawling, Smithing (any kind).
+
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* '''Knowledge:''' Knowledge means little to a Daggerhand thug, but there are still some vital lore required before entry can be accepted, minimum of five of the following lore is required: Sunberth Geography (Fluent/Expert), Lore of the Daggerhand, Lore of Combat (weapons, unarmed, situational, etc), Lore of the Sun's Birth/Gated Community, Lore of Sunberth Business, Lore of Theft/Larceny/Pick Pocketing/Breaking and Entering, Lore of Intimidation/Obtaining Information/Torture/Investigation, Lore of Extortion/Swindling, Lore of Murder/Assassination, Lore of Escape/Methods of Escape, etc. Various other lore may also work. Message DS for questions
+
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For advanced positions, requirements increase.  
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Upon officially being recognized as a Brother or Sister, an individual may begin to advance through a variety of means. The most stable is simply through doing one's job exceptionally well. Whether an individual chooses to place their focus on extorting as much coin out of a business as possible or simply brutalizing the enemies of Daggerhand; doing one's job well does not evade notice. However, for those desiring a much swifter journey to the top, there is the tradition of Challenges. Upon spending three seasons within the organization, a Brother or Sister can issue a challenge to their reigning Big Sibling. Combat to the death ensues, with the strongest seizing the title of Big Brother or Big Sister. Likewise, a Big Sibling can challenge an Underboss in the same fashion three seasons down the road.
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However, upon ascending to the rank Underboss the swift route to the top concludes. Both out of the memory of Dalagnar and in order to maintain stability whilst recovering from misfortune, the organization's leadership has unanimously agreed to forbid the challenging of the Boss.
 +
 
 +
=== Requirements ===
 +
In finer detail, the requirements for a Player Character to ascend to the rank of Brother or Sister are as follows:
 +
 
 +
*'''Weapon: (Any)''' - 10 points
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*'''Intimidation, Negotiation, or Persuasion''' - 10 points
 +
*'''Trade Skill*''' - 15 points
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*'''Lore: (Daggerhand or Sunberth-related)'''
 +
 
 +
(An PC is free to select any non-magical occupation as their trade/role within Daggerhand.)
 +
 
 +
In order to be eligible for promotion to Big Sibling via service or Challenge, an individual must meet the following criteria:
 +
 
 +
*'''Weapon: (Any) - 35 points'''
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*'''Intimidation, Negotiation, or Persuasion''' - 20 points
 +
*'''Unarmed Combat (Any)''' - 20 points
 +
*'''Trade Skill(s)''' - 30 points
 +
*'''Active Membership''' - Three Seasons
 +
 
 +
It is to be noted that further advancement will have criteria outlined by the local DS on an individual basis.
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 +
== Benefits ==
 +
Members of Daggerhand enjoy a wide variety of benefits, complements of the organization's ill-gotten gains. First and foremost, all members of Daggerhand are free to indulge in the housing provided to them. These accommodations amount to a room within a Daggerhand-owned inn, complete with bathing, regular meals, and all the drink one can guzzle. Furthermore, members of the organization receive a wonderful discount at the brothel owned by Brega, amounting to a whopping 20% off of services rendered. Of course, these benefits pale in comparison to those revolving around travel. Members of Daggerhand enjoy a fifty-percent discount on ferry fares leaving the city that are bound for Lodestar Isle, [[Sahova]], or [[Zeltiva]]. This is made possible through the connection built between Ol'Legs and Dalagnar years prior.
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Sunberth]]
[[Category:Sunberth]]

Current revision as of 14:53, 22 October 2014

Bloodshed is Our Native Tongue.

Daggerhand is one of the three most notable gangs residing in Sunberth. Easily the most nefarious of the criminal organizations, Daggerhand is regarded as little more than a congregation of thugs by the city at large. In recent history, it was arguably the most powerful gang in the whole of Sunberth; but that strength has since been lost with the execution of Robern Dalagnar. At present, the organization is a wounded shadow of its former glory and clings to the small scraps of territory that remains in its control. With enemies on all sides, the coming days will be difficult for the organization, but it is determined to survive and take back their mantle of power.

Contents

History

Much like the other two most influential gangs of Sunberth, the history of Daggerhand is rather brief. Having risen to power over the course of two decades, the organization is as "young" as its counterparts; yet is arguably the eldest of the three. Daggerhand began its rise to power through the arrival of a single man, known as Robern Dalagnar, to Sunberth. Hailing from Zeltiva, this man was highly-educated and politically savvy due to his years spent attending the University. However, he did not flaunt these characteristics and instead adopted a mask of charity. His was a new and charismatic voice that the people of Sunberth hearkened to. They were enticed by his promises of a higher standard of living; and soon many laid down their loyalty at his feet. In time, Dalagnar amassed a following which dedicated itself to his protection and the fulfillment of his goals.

However, whilst Dalagnar's public face had many eating out of the palms of his hands, his alias worked another angle from the shadows. Taking the pseudonym "Rot Fingers", Dalagnar began to feel out the political landscape of the city whilst rallying support from a variety of businesses. It took meticulous precision and care to sway these establishments to his cause, yet Dalangar accomplished it all in a relatively brief span of time. As both his public and underground power grew, the people began to realize that they had allowed a monster into their midst. Almost overnight, the talks of bettering the lives of Sunberthians ended and ruthlessness took its place. In fact, Dalagnar became just as power-hungry and tyrannical as the rulers that Sunberth had fought against since the Valterrian. As time raced forward, Dalagnar's enemies began to grow and clash with his supporters. Violence erupted in the streets; ultimately encouraging an assassination attempt upon Dalagnar himself.

Launched by the Night Eyes, the attack claimed the life of Dalagnar's wife and left his daughter's face horrifically scarred by poison. Enraged, elected then to reveal the whole of his might to the city. Dropping his pseudonym, he then called together the whole of his supporters and united them under a single banner as Daggerhand. With his organization finally mustered, he marked the Night Eyes for annihilation...but soon found that destroying them would be as difficult as wounding the very shadows themselves. Regardless, Dalagnar wielded his power in order to practically terrorize the city. He carved out for himself a sizable portion of territory and erected a manor to call home. In light of the attempted assassination, this was where Dalagnar ultimately holed himself up whilst his subordinated carried out his will.

From outright massacres in the streets to shaking down establishments for coin, Daggerhand committed numerous atrocities in the name of their leader. They became hated by many and feared by most...Yet all "good" things eventually come to an end. After years upon years of tolerating the violence of Daggerhand, the denizens of Sunberth rose up. A mob of vigilantes and citizens alike stormed the Daggerhand territory and set fire to the "Rotten Mansion". Dalagnar was dragged out of his sanctuary and promptly lynched before the masses; thereby causing chaos within the ranks.

Enter Stiletto

The mob claimed the lives of many Daggerhand immediately following Dalagnar's death, with many more members defecting out of fear for their lives. This all but crippled the organization, yet in this time of chaos Dalagnar's most trusted subordinates stepped up. Of these, an individual known as "Stiletto" took the reins of what remained of Daggerhand. This person took great care to veil their identity to the point where even gender is a mystery; yet, it is assumed that it is a male. Some debate whether or not Stiletto even exists, or if he is simply a persona put together by Dalagnar's circle of Underbosses. However, under his leadership, Daggerhand managed to hold fast to what little remained of its territory. At present, Stiletto works to restore the organization to fighting shape whilst maintaining as many money sources as possible.

The Organization

Following its near decimation, much of the strength of Daggerhand was lost. However, the organization remains one of the most deadly congregations in the whole of Sunberth. While far from being militant, wealthy, or well-equipped, its power lies in its sheer numbers. To date, the vast majority of their midst is concentrated within what remains of their territory, yet it is far from uncommon to see packs of its members roaming the streets.

  • Headquarters: Robern's Reaches (Sunberth)
  • Members: ~200
  • Hierarchy: Rank by Ability
  • Leader: The Boss - Stiletto
  • Symbol: Thorn-Encircled Dagger

Hierarchy

The Symbol of Daggerhand.

Prior to the demise of its founder, the internal structure of Daggerhand enjoyed a stability founded upon undying loyalty to Dalagnar. However, upon his execution, chaos ensued within the ranks as members began attempts to seize power for themselves. It was only through the combined efforts of Stiletto and the Underbosses that some semblance of order was enforced upon the ranks. At present, Daggerhand currently knows stability...although how long it will last is the primary question on the organization's mind.

Currently leadership of Daggerhand resides in the hands of the Boss: Stiletto. This individual is (typically) the undisputed leader of the organization and oversees all of its operations. Directly underneath the Boss are four Underbosses; each of whom lea approximately fifty men. These individuals place their focus on the maintenance of Daggerhand control over its territory; in addition to launching ventures to gain more for the organization. Each Underboss appoints a pair of Big Brothers or Big Sister who then lead their men towards the fulfillment of Daggerhand's goals. Each Big Brother or Big Sister commands half of their Underbosses' subordinates (most of whom are of Brother/Sister rank); and are easily the most public faces of Daggerhand's command structure.

The majority of Daggerhand are of he rank Brother or Sister. These individuals have been recognized as full members of the organization and are given the privileges thereof. It is upon reaching this rank that an individual is given the Daggerhand tattoo and is fully welcomed into the fold. In times past, the population of Brothers and Sisters paled in comparison to the number of common thus who lent their support to the organization. These individuals had no standing or rights but received a cut of coin for services rendered. However, in the wake of Dalagnar's execution, a light paranoia has gripped the organization. So much so that Thugs who were not committed to fully joining the organization are not afforded the honor of association. Those that Thugs that do aspire to join fall into loose cells led by a Brother or Sister until such time that they prove themselves worthy of membership.

On another note, there are members of Daggerhand whose roles call for discretion. These individuals are typically business owners or are generally informed enough to be sources of information for the organization. Known as Associates, these members are few in number; yet vital in role. A notable example of a Daggerhand Associate is Merv of the Pig's Foot Tavern.

Motivation and Goals

Under the leadership of Dalagnar, the organization had many great aspirations. They sought to strike fear into the hearts and minds of Sunberth through brutal demonstrations of might. They sought to dominate and control as much of the city as they possibly could. They sought to see immense wealth and to revel in the pleasures of life; regardless of how many are harmed in the process. Of course, such violent and avaricious goals ultimately resulted in the execution of Dalagnar and the plunging of the organization into Chaos. In light of their current predicament, the leaders of the organization placed new emphasis on a single goal: survival. To accomplish this task, Daggerhand has actually become even more hostile than before; simply in order to project the illusion of internal stability and power despite Dalagnar's death.

As a whole, Daggerhand is concerned with the maintenance of its territory and amassing enough new blood to return to prominence within Sunberth. They goals epitomized by Dalagnar in life are, of course, still strived for as well. With each and every day, the organization works towards these ends with the subjugation of Sunberth being its ultimate goal.

Allies and Enemies

Sun's Birth: Over the course of their relatively short histories, both the Sun's Birth and Daggerhand have been openly hostile with one another. It is not uncommon to see violence between the two organizations erupt in the streets; regardless of their current, wounded states.

Night Eyes: Personally despised by Dalagnar for the murder of his wife, Daggerhand has been openly hostile with the Night Eyes for several years. Although it has been difficult to combat the stealth-centric order, Daggerhand diligently seeks out its foe at every turn.

Associates

Ol'Legs: The owner of the Legs Wharf has been a longtime friend of Dalagnar and an associate of Daggerhand since the day of its creation. It is through this particular relationship that the organization is able to levy tariffs upon goods coming into the city.

Merv: The owner of the most popular tavern in Sunberth is also an associate of Daggerhand. Merv is an informant to the organization and provides vital information about any happenings or individuals of note. It is safe to say that any person of note who had entered the Pigs Foot has been spoken of to the Daggerhand.

Brega: This individual provides a vital service to Daggerhand through her brothel. Those under her employ serve as eyes and ears to Daggerhand and provide the organization with heaps of intelligence from every corner of the city.

Joining and Advancement

Of the three organizations which dominate the city of Sunberth, joining the ranks of Daggerhand is by far the least difficult. A potential member need only to demonstrate their interest in joining Daggerhand to a member of Brother/Sister rank or higher. Upon demonstrating interest, this individual will then be tentatively inducted under the leadership of the aforementioned Brother/Sister. During this time frame, their superior will put the potential member to the test through a variety of ventures. They will be expected to kill. They will be expected to shake down establishments. They will be expected to demonstrate the ruthlessness required to stand alongside the Daggerhand. If the individual proves themselves through these ventures, they will be fully accepted within Daggerhand and marked accordingly.

Upon officially being recognized as a Brother or Sister, an individual may begin to advance through a variety of means. The most stable is simply through doing one's job exceptionally well. Whether an individual chooses to place their focus on extorting as much coin out of a business as possible or simply brutalizing the enemies of Daggerhand; doing one's job well does not evade notice. However, for those desiring a much swifter journey to the top, there is the tradition of Challenges. Upon spending three seasons within the organization, a Brother or Sister can issue a challenge to their reigning Big Sibling. Combat to the death ensues, with the strongest seizing the title of Big Brother or Big Sister. Likewise, a Big Sibling can challenge an Underboss in the same fashion three seasons down the road.

However, upon ascending to the rank Underboss the swift route to the top concludes. Both out of the memory of Dalagnar and in order to maintain stability whilst recovering from misfortune, the organization's leadership has unanimously agreed to forbid the challenging of the Boss.

Requirements

In finer detail, the requirements for a Player Character to ascend to the rank of Brother or Sister are as follows:

  • Weapon: (Any) - 10 points
  • Intimidation, Negotiation, or Persuasion - 10 points
  • Trade Skill* - 15 points
  • Lore: (Daggerhand or Sunberth-related)

(An PC is free to select any non-magical occupation as their trade/role within Daggerhand.)

In order to be eligible for promotion to Big Sibling via service or Challenge, an individual must meet the following criteria:

  • Weapon: (Any) - 35 points
  • Intimidation, Negotiation, or Persuasion - 20 points
  • Unarmed Combat (Any) - 20 points
  • Trade Skill(s) - 30 points
  • Active Membership - Three Seasons

It is to be noted that further advancement will have criteria outlined by the local DS on an individual basis.

Benefits

Members of Daggerhand enjoy a wide variety of benefits, complements of the organization's ill-gotten gains. First and foremost, all members of Daggerhand are free to indulge in the housing provided to them. These accommodations amount to a room within a Daggerhand-owned inn, complete with bathing, regular meals, and all the drink one can guzzle. Furthermore, members of the organization receive a wonderful discount at the brothel owned by Brega, amounting to a whopping 20% off of services rendered. Of course, these benefits pale in comparison to those revolving around travel. Members of Daggerhand enjoy a fifty-percent discount on ferry fares leaving the city that are bound for Lodestar Isle, Sahova, or Zeltiva. This is made possible through the connection built between Ol'Legs and Dalagnar years prior.

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