The Blackscars, a mighty guild of sellswords hailing from the bustling city of Kono Port, within the Maragami Province of the Kami Concord, is renowned for its prowess in combat and seemingly endless number of members. Amidst the crime-riddled streets of Kono Port, the Blackscars stand out as formidable warriors who can be hired to fight for anyone willing to pay the price. Operating from their stronghold located near the docks, the guild maintains its own fleet of ships and airships, as well as forges where the majority of its members are trained in both smithing and combat, making them highly versatile among the common thugs of Kono Port. In addition to being sellswords, the Blackscars put their skills to the test by venturing into the seas and skies, hunting down dangerous monsters and tackling various challenges they deem worthy of their attention.
History
The history of the Blackscars is steeped in a tale of bloodshed and resilience, tracing its origins to a pivotal moment of tragedy and determination. The conflict that sparked the birth of the guild unfolded in the vicinity of the bustling dock forges, where the blacksmiths of Kono Port toiled to create their craft. However, their lives took a dark turn as the activities of criminals claimed the lives of their beloved sons and daughters. Filled with grief and a burning desire for justice, the blacksmiths were driven to the brink of desperation. They refused to accept the ongoing violence and bloodshed within their city. With their skills honed in the heat of the forges, they crafted weapons for their own defense and embarked on a mission to eradicate the criminals plaguing their streets.
The retaliation was swift and merciless. The Blackscars, as they came to be known, unleashed their fury upon the criminal underworld, hunting down every thug and enforcer they could find. Their weapons, forged with expertise and determination, struck fear into the hearts of their enemies. One by one, the criminals were brought to justice, their reign of terror shattered by the blacksmith warriors' relentless pursuit. In the wake of their decisive actions, their streets of Kono Port fell eerily silent. The once-rampant crime that had plagued the area was quelled, as the Blackscars established their dominance over the territory they had fought so fiercely to protect. The power vacuum left by the defeated criminals was swiftly filled by the guild, cementing their authority and solidifying their reputation as the unrivaled force within the city.
Since that pivotal conflict, the Blackscars have remained a formidable presence in Kono Port. The memory of their origins is etched deeply within their collective identity, serving as a reminder of their resilience, loyalty, and unyielding spirit. The streets that were once stained with the blood of their fallen loved ones are now under their watchful eye, a testament to their unwavering dedication and the price they paid for their newfound peace.
As time passed, the Blackscars expanded their endeavors beyond the initial quest for justice. They became renowned as sellswords, offering their skills and expertise to those who could afford their services. While they maintain a strong focus on combat and the art of warfare, their mastery of blacksmithing has become an integral part of their identity. The echoes of their past continue to resonate in the guild's collective memory, fueling their unwavering commitment to protect their territory and the people of Kono Port from the forces of chaos and oppression.
Abilities
While the guild primarily equips its own members, they also offer their crafted goods for sale to select clientele. However, it is widely understood that the weapons and armor made by the Blackscars are best suited for those who share their physique and combat style. Others who acquire their equipment often do so as a sign of respect or to display their affiliation with the guild, rather than for practical use in combat
In this way, the Blackscars' craftsmanship serves as a testament to their dedication and their desire to forge not only weapons but also a sense of camaraderie and respect within their ranks. Their finely crafted equipment becomes a visual representation of their prowess and a source of inspiration for both themselves and those who witness their might.
Hierarchy
The hierarchy within the Blackscars is structured with a clear chain of command. At the pinnacle of the guild stands the Forge Father, the oldest and most powerful member, whose word is law until someone within the guild challenges their position. Commanders operate their own vessels alongside a crew of Militants and an Armorer. These crews embark on journeys that take them across the world, expanding the guild's influence and recruiting new members. Militants strive to become among the strongest warriors in the guild, while Armorers hold key positions in the forges of Kono Port, maintaining a strict code of perfection in the crafting of weapons and armor. Apprentices are entrusted to the tutelage of Armorers, learning both the art of blacksmithing and the ways of combat. Foundlings, the lowest rank within the guild, are typically children given to the guild by the people of Kono Port, as a sign of honor and good fortune. These children undergo rigorous training and are molded into worthy apprentices, their loyalty and resilience fostered by the guild.
Beliefs & Goals
The Blackscars guild holds a set of firm beliefs that shape their identity and guide their actions. Central to their philosophy is the idea of collective strength, a belief that the guild's power lies in the unity and collective growth of its members. They view the eradication of weaknesses as essential in their pursuit of becoming an unparalleled force. To this end, the Blackscars emphasize constant self-improvement and the relentless pursuit of perfection in their combat skills, craftsmanship, and overall capabilities.
Fearlessness is a virtue deeply ingrained in the Blackscars. They strive to cultivate a mindset that remains unwavering in the face of danger or adversity. The guild members are taught to embrace challenges, seeing them as opportunities for growth and a chance to prove their mettle. This unwavering determination enables them to face even the most formidable opponents without hesitation, bolstered by their collective strength and the belief in their abilities. While the pursuit of power and wealth may be enticing to some, the Blackscars prioritize their own interests and self-worth above all else. They are not driven by a hunger for dominance or material gains but rather seek personal fulfillment and the preservation of their guild's integrity. This philosophy enables them to remain focused on their objectives, ensuring that their actions align with their principles and serve their greater purpose.
The Blackscars guild operates with a strong sense of loyalty and camaraderie. Each member is expected to uphold the principles and values of the guild, treating their fellow Blackscars with respect and support. The eradication of weaknesses is not solely an individual pursuit but a collective effort, with members supporting and motivating one another to excel and surpass their limits.
Guild Rules
The Blackscars operate under a stringent set of rules and principles, which serve as a moral compass guiding their actions and defining their identity as a guild of sellswords. Their adherence to this code of conduct sets them apart from many other criminal organizations, showcasing a sense of honor and integrity within their ranks.
Foremost among their rules is a strict prohibition against harming innocent people. Regardless of the situation or the potential gains, the Blackscars firmly believe in the preservation of innocent lives. This principle reflects their commitment to justice and a refusal to engage in deliberate violence or cause unnecessary harm to those who have no part in the conflicts they involve themselves in. By adhering to this rule, they seek to maintain a level of respect and admiration from the general populace.
Additionally, the Blackscars adamantly denounce any involvement in slave trades. They refuse to engage in the trafficking of people's lives, recognizing the inherent cruelty and exploitation that comes with such practices. This stance reflects their moral compass and a dedication to fighting against oppression and injustice. By steering clear of this reprehensible trade, they maintain a sense of righteousness and stand as a force against the mistreatment of others.
Another line they refuse to cross is involvement in the drug trade. While Kono Port may be riddled with crime and illicit activities, the Blackscars firmly distance themselves from the dark medicines of the underworld. They understand the devastating impact that drugs can have on individuals and communities, and they refuse to contribute to this cycle of harm. By avoiding the drug trade, the Blackscars aim to preserve their reputation and demonstrate a commitment to bettering their surroundings.
Central to the Blackscars' ethos is the principle of protecting their own. Loyalty and respect are deeply ingrained within the guild, forming the bedrock of their unity and camaraderie. Members are expected to demonstrate unwavering loyalty to their comrades, supporting and protecting each other in times of need. Respect is fostered through a culture of mutual regard and understanding, where every member is valued for their contributions and individual strengths. By upholding these values, the Blackscars create an environment of trust and cohesion within their ranks.