House Battleshade
House Battleshade is a relatively young noble house, having emerged from the ashes of internal strife within The Dragonlands about 150 years ago. Known for their expertise in covert operations, strategic planning, and intelligence gathering, they serve as trusted advisors in matters of espionage and internal security. House Battleshade has garnered a reputation for resolving conflicts from the shadows, acting as intermediaries for noble houses who wish to avoid open conflict. Their swift rise to prominence is often attributed to their shrewd political alliances and ability to uncover hidden threats.
Culture
House Battleshade places immense value on knowledge, strategy, and the art of subtlety. Members are trained from a young age in the arts of espionage, negotiation, and tactics. The house values discretion over glory, believing that true power lies in the ability to manipulate events from behind the scenes. Loyalty is highly prized, with internal disputes being quickly and quietly resolved. Trust is earned, not given, and the family’s elite spy network extends across The Dragonlands.
Public Agenda
House Battleshade presents itself as a house that promotes the stability of The Dragonlands by offering services in intelligence gathering, conflict mediation, and advising on security matters. They claim to work toward maintaining peace and balance within the noble circles of the Dragonlands.
Assets
House Battleshade's primary assets are their extensive spy network, skilled agents in intelligence and reconnaissance, and a well-defended estate in Vlarith. They also possess a collection of rare tomes, maps, and artefacts related to ancient Dragonborn history, giving them leverage in negotiations.
History
House Battleshade rose to prominence after successfully uncovering and quelling a conspiracy that threatened to destabilize The Dragonlands. They were initially a group of mercenary strategists who specialized in information warfare, but after gaining the favour of powerful nobles, they were granted a noble title. Their founder, Zethar Battleshade, was a cunning and influential figure who managed to unify warring factions through deft manipulation and tactical prowess.
Foreign Relations
House Battleshade has built tentative alliances with House Flamecrest and House Ironclaw, offering their services in intelligence and conflict mediation in exchange for resources and political favours. They remain neutral with most other houses but have a discreet rivalry with House Blackclaw, both houses often vying for control of The Dragonlands’ covert networks. Their knowledge of secrets and subtle manipulation makes them both an ally and a potential threat to any house they associate with.
Shadows Hold the Truth.
Type
Court, Noble
Leader
Gazetteer
The most notable location under House Battleshade's control is Shadefall Manor, a heavily fortified estate on the outskirts of Vlarith. This estate not only serves as their home but also houses their vast archives and intelligence network. The estate’s inner chambers are said to be filled with hidden passages and vaults where their most valuable information is kept.
Location
Related Species