VIII - Minerva, The Iron Maiden

Known by multiple monikers; The Iron Maiden, The Matriarch of Battle, The Old Battleaxe, among countless others. Every soldier strived to emulate the Iron Maiden, following a code of conduct that at its core was “Magnanimous in victory, gracious in defeat.” However, with the land united under a single banner few soldiers draw their weapons against “honorable” enemies anymore, instead directing their efforts against the ever-present threat of monsters. To that end while the Matriarch of Battle still strongly believes in chivalry and valor, she has become more pragmatic with time. With most monsters no quarter should be expected, and none should be given. Instead, she has begun to focus upon the order and discipline of the ranks of soldiers under her care, giving them the necessary skills to work as a cohesive unit.

Despite her stern attitude and moniker, the Iron Maiden genuinely cares for the soldiers in her charge. The lessons she imparts, while they may seem harsh at times are meant to increase the likelihood of a soldier surviving the battlefield and returning home to their loved ones. When soldiers are mistreated by their superiors, she’s quick to react like a mother bear protecting her cubs.

Many veterans join her clergy and often serve as drill sergeants for fresh recruits and the healers in field hospitals. Surprisingly her temples are serene sanctuaries providing food and shelter to children orphaned by conflict and veterans unable to return to the civilian life. One of the gods have mercy on the poor soul that thinks to disrupt the serenity of one of her temples, because neither she nor her followers will have any for them.

Appearance

The Matriarch of Battle appears to be a middle-aged woman who wears a stern expression upon her face. Her hair has begun to grey, and crow’s feet have begun to emerge around her eyes. She is surprisingly fleetfooted and graceful despite adorning a suit of heavy plate. Many veterans have sworn they’ve seen her rallying the troops and providing succor to the dying on the battlefield during their campaigns

Birthsign Feature - Born to Lead
June 1st to June 16th When you perform the Help Action, the aided target adds an additional 1d4 bonus to the outcome of the effected skill check.

Arcana: Strength VIII
Alignment: Lawful Neutral
Provinces: Battle, Chivalry, Protection, Soldiers
Suggest Domains: Order, War
Zodiac: June 1st to June 16th
Symbol: A Labrys battle axe

Children