Warlord Keel, the First Orc King
Orc Monarch
Warlord Keel was a historic orc tribal leader, and later monarch, during the late Third Age. He used the rich veins of orichalcum in his lands to wage war and press his influence across northern Tarteria and unite the orc tribes under one banner, becoming the first monarch of the Kingdom of Keeleon.
Description
Appearance
Surviving depictions of Keel show him as a tall orc with broad shoulders. His wide head was bald and was supported on a thick neck. He wore a full, bushy, curly beard and had two prominent tusks. His regalia consisted of a long, draping cloak over a battle-worn set of armor. His weapon was Ekaros, The First Orichalcum Blade, which was a rough blade of solid orichalcum. On his head was the crown of the Kingdom of Keeleon.Biography
Keel's tribe is believed to have come from the Western Valley region in northwestern Tarteria. However, the few surviving historical documents from this time are contradictory and damaged. As such, the exact location is unknown, though it is believed it may have been in what is today the Green Metal Bay. Keel is said to have become a leader of his tribe through his great strength. It was his tribe that first learned to smith and craft with orichalcum. Indeed, it is said Keel's enchanted blade, Ekaros, was the very first weapon made from this material. Much of Keel's reign as tribal leader was spent using the enhanced military might provided by the use of orichalcum to unite the various other tribes of the region under his banner, through force, alliance, and subjugation. The history of these battles is referred to as the Unification of Keeleon, and it is said that Keel was swift and peerless in these conflicts. After unifying the tribes, Keel and his people built a formidable castle near the Pandia Gulf. Keel declared the beginning of the Kingdom of Keeleon, becoming its first monarch and making his castle the capital city.Character Information
Legacy
- Keel united the orc tribes of Tarteria and formed the first orc kingdom: the Kingdom of Keeleon. This country would continue on until its destruction during the Tarterian War, and would be succeeded by the Queendom of Keeleon.
- Keel is attributed as the discoverer of orichalcum and the first to apply its use to war.
- Keel constructed Keeleon Castle, which served as the capital of his kingdom.
- Many aspects of orcish government in Tarteria today are named after Keel, including the Keel's Band army, Keel's Navy, and Keel's Council.
- A steel statue depiction of Keel was found in the Hall of Champions within Dynamia, the Plane of Strength.
- A marble statue of Keel is located in Resilience Park of New Keeleon. It was partially recovered from Keeleon Castle and was being reconstructed.
Notable Items
- Ekaros, The First Orichalcum Blade: It is said Keel's weapon was the first ever constructed using the rare and powerful ore, orichalcum.