Council of Equanimity
In the bustling city of Polistopolis, the Council of Equanimity stands as a paradoxical entity, revered and feared in equal measure. Ostensibly the city's benevolent guardians, the council's true nature is far more sinister, akin to a powerful and unscrupulous crime syndicate. They deftly manipulate the city's political and economic levers, presenting a facade of righteousness while engaging in activities that belie their malevolent core. The identity of members is public knowledge, but the number of members varies from year to year and how their members are selected is a state secret.
Trade and Economic Dominance:
Using their positions, the council members have skewed trade policies to their advantage. By imposing heavy taxes on certain goods while giving preferential treatment to their own interests, they have amassed vast wealth, further entrenching their power.Suppression of Opposition:
The council employs an iron fist in velvet gloves when dealing with dissenters. Disappearances of vocal critics are worryingly common, and there are public smear campaigns against ideas they oppose.Secret Alliances with External Threats:
Publicly, the council positions itself as a bulwark against external dangers. However, behind closed doors, they engage in clandestine negotiations with these very threats, such as bandit groups and Auchelle mountain giants, often for mutual benefit.Manipulation through Religion:
The council's clerical members wield religious influence as a tool to mold public opinion. They propagate teachings that subtly support the council's agenda, couching their malevolent goals in spiritual rhetoric.Members of the Council of Equanimity
Lord Varian Blackwood
- Role: The shrewd head of the council, skilled in diplomacy and political schemes.
- Background: Rose to prominence as a merchant prince, leveraging trade networks and strategic marriages.
Ambassador Skaldrath'k
- Role: Demon ambassador representing the interests of the demon-ruled dwarf realm to the north.
- Background: A cunning and charismatic demon, Skaldrath'k, has been on the council for generations. Known for his silver tongue and ability to weave persuasive arguments, Skaldrath'k never seeks to dominate the council openly and rarely sides with the Priests of the Dread.
Lady Elara Thorn
- Role: Master of espionage, controlling the flow of information and intelligence.
- Background: Former courtesan turned spymaster, using her extensive contacts to gather critical intelligence.
Captain Rorik "Seabreaker"
- Role: Advisor on maritime affairs and oversees naval operations.
- Background: A feared pirate captain who turned to politics, bringing his knowledge of the sea and naval strategy.
General Kael Ironfist
- Role: Military strategist and commander of the council's armed forces.
- Background: A battle-hardened warrior from a military lineage, known for his uncompromising approach to warfare.
High Priestess Ivora Veil
- Role: Spiritual advisor with sinister motives, often pushing her own hidden agenda.
- Background: A once-benevolent cleric who turned to darker deities, now wielding her influence subtly.
Master Thief Laric Lynxspin
- Role: The council's connection to the criminal underworld, providing intelligence from unsavory sources.
- Background: A legendary rogue shifter with a past shrouded in mystery, using his skills for political gain.
Baroness Ysabel de Marque
- Role: Influential in economic policies, managing trade and finance.
- Background: A savvy businesswoman from a wealthy family, skilled in navigating the complexities of commerce.
Merchant Lord Gareth Silverstream
- Role: Advisor on trade and economic strategies, focusing on expanding the council's wealth.
- Background: A dwarf exile from Many Fathers, he is a successful and cunning trader known for his ability to create wealth and influence markets.
Lord Erevan Nightwind
- Role: Oversees internal affairs and law enforcement within the council's territory.
- Background: A former judge with a strong understanding of law and order, now a Priest of a Dread Lord
High Priest Mordak Stone
- Role: An evil cleric and Lord Erevan Nightwind's chief rival, he is subtly influencing council decisions towards darker objectives.
- Background: A manipulative and secretive cleric who worships a Dread Lord, using his position to further his unholy goals.
In Aeternum Ordo: To Uphold These Ancient Stones, the Steadfast Rule.
Location
Controlled Territories
