The Blackhand Reavers

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The Blackhand Reavers

The Blackhand Reavers are shrouded in mystery, and much of their lore is woven with tales of intrigue and secrecy. Here's more about their enigmatic leader and the band itself.

Crowbeak - The Captain of the Reavers

Crowbeak, the current captain

Crowbeak's Legacy

The title of "Crowbeak" is not just a name but a mantle that has been passed down through several formidable pirates. Each leader takes on the Crowbeak persona upon assuming command, donning a distinctive mask that features a stylized, bird-like beak. This tradition helps maintain an aura of immortality around the leader, as if Crowbeak is a timeless entity rather than a single individual. This mystique bolsters the Reavers' fearsome reputation.

• Suggested Race: Tiefling
  • Reasoning: Tieflings, with their infernal heritage, often have a mysterious and intimidating presence, perfect for the enigmatic and feared pirate captain.
• Class: Warlock (Pact of the Kraken)
  • Reasoning: His mysterious and possibly dark past, along with his command over the sea-faring band of pirates, lends itself to a pact with deep, dark sea creatures.

The Mask of Crowbeak

The original Crowbeak mask

The mask is never removed in public, adding to the mystique and fear associated with the leader. Legend has it that removing the mask in front of others is a sign of either utmost trust or an omen of impending doom. Only the closest confidantes within the Reavers, if any, might have seen Crowbeak's true face, and they certainly aren't telling any tales. This secrecy also protects the identity of the leader, making it harder for enemies to target Crowbeak personally.

Crowbeak's Command

Each Crowbeak brings their unique touch to the leadership, though they are always characterized by charisma and ruthlessness. The current Crowbeak is rumored to have a strategic mind, having been a naval officer, which might explain the sophisticated tactics the Reavers employ in their raids. This background gives Crowbeak an understanding of naval operations and tactics, likely contributing to the Reavers' success against merchant ships and coastal defenses.

Influence and Operations

Under Crowbeak's command, the Reavers not only terrorize the seas but also engage in smuggling, black-market dealings, and occasional mercenary work. Their code of loyalty is strict; betraying Crowbeak or the Reavers is punishable by death. This loyalty is enforced through a combination of fear, respect, and the lucrative spoils of their raids, which ensures that the crew remains committed and disciplined.

Relationship with Harbour City

The rumored deal with the Mayor of Harbour City and the Dockmasters suggests a complex relationship with the city. While officially enemies, this alliance hints at a pragmatic streak in Crowbeak's leadership, using political savvy to secure advantages for the Reavers. This arrangement likely involves some level of bribery, smuggling rights, or even shared intelligence about movements of rival pirate fleets or navy ships.

Crowbeak and the Blackhand Reavers continue to be a formidable force in the region, with each new leader adding to the dark legend of the Reavers' indomitable will and fearsome presence on the high seas.

The Crew of the Reavers

Within the ranks of the Blackhand Reavers, several notorious members stand out, each with their own fearsome reputation and unique skills that contribute to the band's infamous status:

1. "Ironhand" Mallory

• Role: First Mate
• Background: A former armorer turned pirate, Ironhand Mallory earned her nickname after losing her hand in a skirmish and fashioning a replacement from iron. She is known for her brutal combat skills and her ability to forge weapons and armor for the crew.
• Notoriety: Ironhand is not only Crowbeak's right hand but also oversees training of the crew, making her instrumental in maintaining the Reavers' combat effectiveness.
• Suggested Race: Dwarf
  • Reasoning: Dwarves are known for their resilience and craftsmanship, suitable for a character known for her iron hand and combat skills.
• Class: Fighter (Eldritch Knight)
  • Reasoning: Her combination of combat prowess and skill with crafting could be complemented by the magical abilities of an Eldritch Knight.

2. Sable Thorne

• Role: Quartermaster
• Background: Sable Thorne is the tactician behind the Reavers' most successful raids. With a past shrouded in mystery, Sable's strategic mind and cold demeanor make him a feared figure among allies and enemies alike.
• Notoriety: He is responsible for planning the logistics of raids and managing the spoils, ensuring that the Reavers remain financially formidable
• Suggested Race: Human
  • Reasoning: Humans are adaptable and ambitious, fitting for the tactician and logistician managing the pirate crew's operations.
• Class: Rogue (Strategist or Swashbuckler)
  • Reasoning: His role as a tactician and his background in possibly shady dealings make him a perfect fit for a cunning Rogue class.

3. "Mad" Mags Flint

• Role: Navigator
• Background: Mags Flint is known for her uncanny ability to navigate through the most treacherous waters, earning her the nickname "Mad Mags" for the risks she's willing to take.
• Notoriety: Her expertise is crucial in escaping naval pursuits and finding new targets, contributing immensely to the Reavers' elusive nature.
• Suggested Race: Gnome
  • Reasoning: Gnomes are known for their inventiveness and eccentric personalities, aligning well with a navigator famous for her risky and bold maneuvers.
• Class: Ranger (Beastmaster)
  • Reasoning: Her unparalleled navigation skills and affinity for the open sea could be enhanced by the Ranger’s path, particularly one that focuses on bonding with natural allies.

4. Lysa Blackwater

• Role: Scout and Spy
• Background: An expert in stealth and information gathering, Lysa was once a thief in Harbour City before joining the Reavers. She uses her skills to infiltrate towns and ships ahead of raids.
• Notoriety: Lysa's intelligence on targets is often key to the success of their operations, and her ability to blend in anywhere makes her invaluable.
• Suggested Race: Elf
  • Reasoning: Elves, with their keen senses and affinity for stealth, are ideal for a scout and spy who needs to move undetected and gather crucial intelligence.
• Class: Rogue (Assassin)
  • Reasoning: Her ability to infiltrate and gather intelligence makes her suited to the stealthy and deadly skills of an Assassin.

5. "Cannonball" Rorke

• Role: Gunner
• Background: Known for his love of explosives and a boisterous personality, Rorke handles the Reavers' artillery. He’s famous for his aim and the joy he takes in chaos.
• Notoriety: His effectiveness in ship-to-ship combat is legendary, and his ability to turn the tide of battle with well-placed cannon fire is feared across the seas.
• Suggested Race: Dwarf
  • Reasoning: Dwarves often have a deep connection with gunpowder and explosives, making them a natural choice for a gunner who revels in the use of artillery.
• Class: Artificer (Gunner)
  • Reasoning: His love for and skill with cannons and explosives aligns well with the Artificer’s specialty in gunnery.

6. Jenna "The Whisper" Marlowe

• Role: Diplomat and Negotiator
• Background: Jenna serves a unique role among the pirates, using her charm and wit to negotiate with other pirate bands and sometimes with the very towns the Reavers raid.
• Notoriety: She's known for her ability to broker truces and deals, often saving the Reavers from potential conflicts and ensuring their continued operation.
• Suggested Race: Half-Elf
  • Reasoning: Half-elves excel in diplomacy due to their mixed heritage, making them effective in roles that require negotiation and charm.
• Class: Bard (College of Eloquence)
  • Reasoning: Her ability to negotiate and charm fits well with the Bard’s focus on eloquence and persuasion.

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