Syferin Arkanen is the Left Hand of Valekith and one of the three adjudicators of the Tribunal of Netheril, playing a pivotal role in the restoration of Valekith to his full form. Known for his cunning and strategic brilliance, Syferin's influence and schemes set in motion the Battle of the Four Armies, manipulating The Sunsations to ensure the Shadi Order's ultimate victory.
As an aspiring Mythar mage, Syferin studied directly under Archshadi Neverus, mastering various aspects of Rift Magic and necromancy. After being transformed into a Shade, Syferin quickly rose through the ranks of the Shadi Order, proving himself to be not only a powerful necromancer but also a master manipulator. His careful and calculated nature made him one of the most dangerous members of the order, always planning several steps ahead.
Syferin was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the Battle of the Four Armies, a cataclysmic conflict that pitted the Shadowlords, Crimson Hand Fortress, and Night Mothers Chosen against each other. Through careful manipulation, Syferin used the Sunsations as pawns to weaken both the Crimson Hand and the Shadowlords, allowing the Shadi Order to position themselves as the true victors. His masterstroke was in concealing the true nature of his plans, deceiving all involved parties into fighting for their own interests while furthering the goals of the Shadi Order.
He orchestrated the battle not just for the destruction of the Shadi's enemies but to siphon their souls into the Soulmonger Crystals, using the conflict to empower Valekith and the Floating City of Netheril. The conflict, which devastated much of the Shadowfell, was the result of Syferin's ruthless and meticulous planning, demonstrating his loyalty to the Shadi Order and his desire to see Valekith fully restored.
Syferin possesses unique arcane abilities similar to those of his master, Valekith. His most feared power is his ability to teleport nearly any distance he can see, allowing him to escape or strike without warning. His arcane eye, a manifestation of his mastery over dark magic, can alter the minds of any who dare to look into it. By locking eyes with his opponents, Syferin can twist their thoughts, compelling them to obey his will or drive them to madness.
His arcane surveillance abilities allowed him to manipulate the battlefield during the Battle of the Four Armies, keeping track of enemy movements and ensuring the Shadi Order’s success. His ability to remain unseen while pulling the strings of such a grand conflict makes him one of the most dangerous figures in the Shadowfell.
As the Left Hand of Valekith, Syferin holds considerable power within the Shadi Order, second only to Archshadi Neverus and Valekith himself. His role is to ensure that Valekith’s will is carried out, particularly in the search for the severed hands of their master. Syferin is devoted to restoring Valekith to his full power and was instrumental in locating the hands, manipulating the Sunsations and other factions to achieve their goal.
Syferin's influence within the Shadi Order is profound, with many seeing him as Valekith’s most loyal and effective servant. His intellect, combined with his arcane prowess, makes him a figure both feared and respected within the dark halls of Netheril.