Origin:
The sinister origins of the "Apostles of Death" unfolded during a nightmarish period in Midora's history. Azzan, the archfiend of Despair, Plagues, and Diseases, cast a malevolent shadow across the Iron Isles. In an act of unbridled malevolence, Azzan unleashed a devastating plague upon this once-thriving land, shrouding its lush jungles and swampy regions in a veil of death and despair.
The plague, a manifestation of Azzan's dark power, spread like wildfire, corrupting and withering all it touched. The once-vibrant flora and fauna of the Iron Isles withered, and the land itself seemed to writhe in agony. It was an era marked by suffering, a testament to the boundless cruelty of the archfiend. Azzan's reign of terror, however, did eventually come to an end. Through the combined efforts of powerful adventurers of Midora, Azzan was forcibly banished back to the infernal realm of Tamahirii. But the echoes of his malevolence continued to reverberate throughout Midora.
It was during this bleak period that a group of devoted individuals, driven by an unwavering belief in Azzan's return, clandestinely formed the cult known as the Apostles of Death. Bound by a fanatical loyalty to their malevolent patron, they pledged to go to any lengths to bring Azzan back to the mortal realm. Their dark and treacherous journey into the heart of despair had only just begun.
Dogma:
The dogma of the Apostles of Death revolves around chaos, despair, and the spread of deadly plagues. They fervently believe that Azzan's return will bring about an age of suffering and disease, which they view as a form of divine retribution upon Midora. They consider themselves the harbingers of this impending doom, tasked with sowing discord, spreading deadly diseases, and causing despair wherever they go.
Organization:
The cult operates in a decentralized and secretive manner, with small cells scattered throughout the Vache Kingdom and other regions of Midora. These cells are often composed of alchemists, the sick, and fanatical followers, working independently to further the cult's sinister goals. Communication among cells is limited to prevent detection, and hierarchies within each cell remain fluid to maintain secrecy.
Leadership:
The leadership structure of the Apostles of Death remains shrouded in mystery. It is believed that a select few individuals, known as "Blight Bringers" hold higher positions within the cult, orchestrating its activities and ensuring the secrecy of its members. These Emissaries are rumored to have direct contact with the malevolent spirit of Azzan, receiving guidance and power from the archfiend.
Activities:
The cult is notorious for using arcane science to create deadly diseases and plagues. These concoctions are then unleashed upon unsuspecting populations, causing widespread suffering and chaos. The Apostles of Death are also skilled assassins, using their knowledge of poisons to carry out targeted killings. Their ultimate goal is to spread destruction and despair in the name of their patron, Azzan, with the belief that this will hasten his return.
Symbols & Signs:
The Apostles of Death are known to wear distinctive masks and dark robes to conceal their identities during their sinister activities. Their symbols often include the skull of Azzan, representing death and disease. These symbols serve as hidden markers for members to recognize one another in the shadows.
History:
The cult's history is one of shadowy and sinister endeavors. From its inception, it has been marked by acts of terror, plague, and assassination. Authorities across Midora have attempted to eradicate the cult, but its secretive nature and decentralized structure have made it a formidable and elusive adversary. The Apostles of Death continue to pose a significant threat to the stability and security of the Vache Kingdom and beyond, and their dark influence casts a long and ominous shadow over the land.