The Red Hand

The Red Hand is a formidable and unyielding band of mercenaries, driven by a relentless pursuit of martial glory and the worship of Eren, the god of war. Fueled by an insatiable appetite for combat and a desire for riches, the Red Hand is renowned across the realms as a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Their unwavering commitment to martial excellence and their pragmatic approach to conflict have made them a sought-after and feared entity in the world of mercenaries. Here is a description of the Red Hand:  
Warriors of Unyielding Valor:
The members of the Red Hand are battle-hardened warriors who have honed their skills through countless campaigns. They embody the embodiment of valor and martial prowess, embracing the art of war with an unwavering dedication to their craft. Fearless and unflinching, they charge into the heart of battle with a fervor unmatched by most.  
A Pact with Eren:
The Red Hand's worship of Eren, the god of war, is an integral part of their identity. They believe that through their acts of bloodshed and combat, they earn the favor of their deity. They adorn themselves with symbols of Eren, proudly displaying their devotion and seeking to emulate the god's strength and ferocity.  
For Coin and Glory:
The Red Hand is a mercenary group driven by pragmatic motives. They fight not for ideology or loyalty but for the tangible rewards of battle: coin, loot, and the thrill of conquest. Their willingness to switch sides in conflicts demonstrates their singular focus on their own gain, making them unpredictable and valuable assets on the battlefield.  
Versatility in Warfare:
These mercenaries are not bound by allegiances or loyalties. They are renowned for their adaptability, lending their strength to any side that can meet their price. From siege warfare to skirmishes, they are skilled in a range of combat tactics, making them versatile assets in any conflict.  
Epic Tales and Legends:
The Red Hand's exploits have become the stuff of legends, with their members featured in tales of heroic conquest and daring escapades. Their name is synonymous with victory and bloodshed, and their reputation ensures that wherever they march, a trail of epic tales follows in their wake.  
Ruthless Efficiency:
The Red Hand operates with ruthless efficiency, executing their contracts with surgical precision. Their experience and discipline enable them to assess situations swiftly and formulate strategies that maximize their chances of success. In battle, they are known for their calculated strikes and tactical mastery.  
Brotherhood of Warriors:
Within the Red Hand, a sense of camaraderie emerges from shared experiences on the battlefield. While their focus on personal gain sets them apart, there exists a unique bond among members who understand the brutal realities of their chosen path.  
Masters of Intimidation:
The group's distinctive red insignia, often imprinted on their armor and banners, strikes fear into the hearts of their foes. The sight of the Red Hand marching to battle serves as a harrowing warning of the carnage and devastation that follows in their wake.   In a world where conflict and chaos reign, the Red Hand stands as an embodiment of Eren's wrath and the unyielding pursuit of martial glory. Their battlefield prowess, commitment to their faith, and mercenary pragmatism have forged them into a formidable and iconic force, etching their name into the annals of war and legend.

Structure

Bloodlord:
At the pinnacle of the hierarchy is the Bloodlord, the supreme leader of the Red Hand. The Bloodlord is both a formidable warrior and a charismatic commander who embodies the group's values and commands the respect of all members. They make crucial decisions, set overarching strategies, and oversee the Red Hand's operations.  
Warlords:
Under the Bloodlord's command are the Warlords, highly skilled and experienced commanders who lead divisions of mercenaries into battle. Each Warlord specializes in a particular type of warfare (e.g., siege, cavalry, ranged combat) and is responsible for training, tactics, and ensuring the success of their assigned missions.  
Champions:
Champions are elite warriors who have proven themselves in numerous battles and have earned the respect of their peers. They lead smaller units of mercenaries within a Warlord's division and act as lieutenants on the battlefield. Champions play a vital role in executing tactical plans and relaying orders.  
Veterans:
Veterans are battle-hardened mercenaries with extensive experience in various conflicts. They serve as seasoned soldiers who lead squads of fighters into battle. Veterans mentor younger members, share their knowledge, and contribute to the training and cohesion of their units.  
Mercenaries:
The bulk of the Red Hand consists of skilled mercenaries who are proficient in combat and tactics. They are organized into squads led by Veterans or Champions and carry out the missions assigned by their superiors.  
Initiates:
Initiates are newly recruited members who are in the process of proving their worth to the Red Hand. They undergo training, demonstrate their combat skills, and earn the right to be recognized as full-fledged mercenaries.  
Recruits:
Recruits are individuals who aspire to join the ranks of the Red Hand. They undergo a rigorous selection process, including tests of combat prowess, loyalty, and adaptability. Only those who demonstrate exceptional potential are accepted as Initiates.  
Support Personnel:
In addition to warriors, the Red Hand may have support personnel, such as scouts, medics, and strategists, who play vital roles in ensuring the success of their operations.   It's important to note that while this hierarchy provides a framework for the Red Hand's structure, the organization's flexible and pragmatic nature means that leadership roles may evolve based on battlefield performance and the dynamic needs of their contracts.

Culture

Martial Honor and Glory:
The Red Hand holds martial honor and personal glory in high regard. Warriors within the group strive to earn renown through feats of valor, courage, and combat prowess. Achievements on the battlefield are celebrated and contribute to a member's standing within the group.  
Pragmatic Mercenaries:
The Red Hand is driven by pragmatic motives, viewing warfare as a means to achieve personal wealth and recognition. Contracts are accepted based on payment and potential gains, rather than ideological or moral considerations.  
Devotion to Eren:
Central to the Red Hand's culture is their unwavering devotion to Eren, the god of war. Members believe that by embracing conflict and mastering the art of combat, they honor their deity and earn his favor. Symbols of Eren adorn their armor and banners as a testament to their faith.  
Unity in Battle:
While the Red Hand's members may come from diverse backgrounds, they find a sense of unity on the battlefield. A shared camaraderie emerges as warriors fight side by side, forming a brotherhood forged in the heat of combat.  
Code of Conduct:
The Red Hand upholds a code of conduct that emphasizes loyalty to the group, respect for superiors, and adherence to orders. Discipline and obedience are essential to maintaining the cohesion and effectiveness of their mercenary force.  
Adaptability and Versatility:
The Red Hand prides itself on its ability to adapt to various battle scenarios. Members are skilled in diverse forms of combat, allowing them to thrive in different environments, from siege warfare to skirmishes.  
Valor in the Face of Adversity:
The Red Hand values courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Warriors are expected to stand firm and confront challenges head-on, displaying unwavering determination even in the direst situations.  
Stories and Legends:
Tales of epic battles, daring exploits, and legendary feats are shared and celebrated within the group. These stories not only inspire members but also serve as a reminder of the Red Hand's legacy of valor.  
Hierarchical Structure:
The Red Hand's hierarchy is respected and followed, with leaders earning their positions through skill, experience, and battlefield accomplishments. Chain of command is crucial for effective communication and decision-making during combat.  
Respect for Craftsmanship:
Members often forge personal connections with their weapons and armor, valuing the craftsmanship that aids them in battle. Weapons are treated with reverence, symbolizing the tools of their trade and the means to achieve glory.   The culture of the Red Hand is a fusion of martial discipline, faith, and practicality. Rooted in the pursuit of personal advancement and honor, while also acknowledging the power of divine favor, the Red Hand's culture shapes them into a formidable and respected force on the battlefield.

Public Agenda

The Red Hand's public agenda is veiled in secrecy, as they primarily operate as mercenaries driven by personal gain and martial glory. They take on contracts to fight in battles and conflicts, offering their services to any side that can meet their price, without allegiance to any particular cause or ideology.

History

The history of the Red Hand is a tale of mercenary prowess and opportunistic expansion, marked by a relentless pursuit of martial excellence and pragmatic self-interest. Founded in the city of Olinth in 34 PD, the Red Hand emerged during a time of regional conflicts and shifting alliances. Here are key milestones in their history:  
Founding in Olinth (34 PD - 141 PD):
The Red Hand was established by a group of skilled warriors and mercenaries who sought to capitalize on the chaos and power struggles of their era. Recognizing the potential for profit in the ever-shifting landscape of warfare, they formed a cohesive unit and quickly gained a reputation for their combat prowess.  
Rise to Prominence (112 PD - 170 PD):
Over the years, the Red Hand's reputation spread across the continent as tales of their victories and strategic cunning circulated. They built a formidable track record, earning lucrative contracts from various factions, city-states, and warring lords.  
Relocation to Helm's Heart (161 PD - Present):
As Olinth succumbed to the swamp's embrace in 141 PD, the Red Hand was forced to seek a new stronghold. They established their headquarters within the fortress city of Helm's Heart, nestled deep within rugged mountains. This strategic relocation not only fortified their base of operations but also reflected their commitment to adaptability and survival.  
Influence and Notoriety (Present):
The Red Hand's influence continued to grow as they demonstrated their ability to turn the tide of battles and secure decisive victories. Though they remain shrouded in secrecy, whispers of their deeds and the iconic red hand insignia served to bolster their mystique and reputation.

Blood for Gold, Glory for All.

Founding Date
34 PD
Type
Military, Mercenary Group
Alternative Names
The Sell Swords
Successor Organizations
Leader Title
Founders
Divines

Clients

The relationship between the Red Hand and the Iron Brotherhood is a multifaceted alliance that goes beyond the battlefield, encompassing both combat and logistical support. Centered around mutual benefit and a shared focus on martial excellence, their connection is integral to the success of both organizations.

Non-aggressive

The Knights of Nidses were born from the Red Hand. While their views on war are tremendously different, there is still an inate respect both organizations have for eachother and their shared dedication to the blade.