A mercenary brotherhood that operates with a singular creed: one way or another, they always get paid. Whether through coin or retribution, The Ashen Tithe ensures that debts are honored—if not in gold, then in fire and ruin. They are a disciplined but ruthless company of sellswords, assassins, and siege specialists who take contracts across the Lewihbolan Republic and beyond. Their reputation is built on an unbroken record of fulfilling their end of a deal, no matter the cost. Those who attempt to cheat them find their estates reduced to smoldering rubble and their names erased from history.
Goals and Motivations
Ensure all contracts are honored – Those who hire them must pay, whether willingly or by force.
Expand their influence – Position themselves as the most feared and respected mercenary force in the region.
Punish oathbreakers – Make examples of those who fail to pay, ensuring their reputation remains intact.
Amass wealth and power – While loyalty within the company is absolute, members are expected to seek profit and strength.
History
The Ashen Tithe began as a small band of mercenaries during the chaotic wars of the Lewihbolan Republic’s expansion. Led by Cassian Deymar, a disgraced noble turned warlord, they first gained notoriety when an ambitious duke refused to pay them for a successful campaign. In retaliation, they burned his city to the ground, leaving behind only the charred remains of his palace and a single message: “The debt is settled.”
From that moment, The Ashen Tithe grew, attracting hardened warriors, exiled knights, and disenfranchised soldiers with the promise of wealth and purpose. Over the decades, they honed their methods—leveraging fear, strategy, and overwhelming force to ensure they were never denied what was owed. Now, they are a formidable power in the Lewihbolan Republic, equally respected and feared by nobles, merchants, and common folk alike.
Rules and Tenents
The Contract is Absolute – Once agreed upon, a contract must be honored, even if it leads to ruin.
Debts are Paid in Full – If coin is not given, destruction is delivered in its place.
Brotherhood Before Blood – Loyalty to the company supersedes all personal ties.
Strength is Wealth – Power and reputation are as valuable as gold.
No Contract Without a Price – The Ashen Tithe does not fight for free, ever.
Membership
Aptitudes: Martial prowess, siege warfare, intimidation tactics, and tactical strategy. Some members specialize in arson, demolitions, and assassination.
Allegiance: Loyalty is absolute; betrayal is met with execution. Members mark their commitment with a brand of the Ashen Coin upon their arm.
Compensation: Members receive a share of all contracts and access to well-maintained weapons, armor, and training. Elite members gain personal wealth and influence, often securing land and titles as rewards.
Hierarchy
The First Tithe – The supreme leader, the final authority on all contracts and punishments. Currently held by Cassian Deymar’s descendant, Ralyn Deymar.
Coinlords – High-ranking officers who negotiate contracts and oversee regional operations.
Ashwardens – Field commanders responsible for ensuring contracts are executed flawlessly.
Cinderblades – Veteran warriors, assassins, and specialists who handle high-risk assignments.
Tithemen – Standard mercenaries, foot soldiers, and enforcers, trained to fight and burn as needed.