The Veiled Alliance exists to protect preservers from physical, mental, and magical attacks by all enemies: sorcerer-kings, templars, defilers, the general citizenry, and even the dragon. Preservers automatically earn its protection, but not all automatically acquire membership. A wizard must earn affiliation. Other characters may join under certain circumstances. These 'auxiliary' members also gain protection. Defilers cannot join the Alliance. Only good or neutral characters may join.

The organizations undertake many varied activities, yet all serve this relatively narrow purpose. If anything threatens a preserver or preserving magic, the Alliance vows solemn opposition. Conversely, the organizations (as opposed to individual members) care nothing about threats to others. No Alliance takes official action to free ordinary slaves, for example, nor to provide disaster relief, nor to battle monsters.

Vigorous Alliance chapters exist in all seven city-states. Minor Alliances, or sometimes single contacts, also exist in the village of Altaruk and a few other scattered villages and oases. These typically take orders from the nearest city-state chapter. No known Alliance chapters exist in the Crescent Forest, on the islands of the Sea of Silt, nor in other remote areas.

Only the leader, if anyone, knows all of a chapter's activities. No other member ever sees much of the whole. Alliance members work in a fog (or, more appropriately, a sandstorm), seeing a few others now and then; perhaps a shadowy figure or two in the distance, and nothing beyond.

Occasional reports passed through a chapter may help explain strange occurrences in the city-state, but these usually come after the fact. Spectacular incidents surprise everyone except those directly involved in planning and execution. This fog makes adventures in the Alliance mysterious affairs. Small events can have great effects, and the characters seldom know what their missions will achieve until they've succeeded.

• Limited presence in Tyr

• Nearly open presence in Altaruk

• New limited alliance with The True

Unknown

• House Shom hired mercenaries to locate and loot the temple ruins called The Face in the Stone.

• House Shom returned the groups materials after being rescued near the Face in the Stone

• House Shom is looking for an artifact from the Face in the Stone, the group is thought to have it

The True is a secretive and enigmatic faction driven by an unsettling ambition: the revival of the long-dead Sorcerer-King Kalak in the heart of Tyr. Comprised of individuals who fervently believe in the return of their despotic ruler, The True operates in the shadows, their identities concealed behind hooded cloaks and masks.

Their ranks are said to include powerful necromancers and devotees of forgotten dark arts, all united by their unwavering loyalty to Kalak's malevolent legacy. Whispers of forbidden rituals and the gathering of dark relics abound, hinting at the depths to which The True is willing to go to achieve their sinister goal. With Tyr as their stage and the revival of a Sorcerer-King as their ambition, The True casts a chilling pall over the city's already tense atmosphere, their every move shrouded in mystery and dread.

• The True initiated a Tyr-wide attack on Preserver safe houses

• Assassinated Lord Aris of Altaruk

• Cleansed Tyr of the Veiled Alliance

• Conducting some ritual to raise Kalak from the Dead

• Betrayed by Obadias

• Limited alliance with The Veiled Alliance

Their scope is as vast as the arid expanse of the volcanic crater that surrounds them. This diverse group of runaway slaves, including minotaurs among their ranks, comprises a collection of souls from various backgrounds and origins. Their shared motive is the unquenchable thirst for freedom, an unyielding drive that transcends the boundaries of race, creed, and circumstance.

Their motives are twofold: first, to escape the oppressive shackles of servitude and exploitation that have defined their lives for too long. The scars of their enslavement serve as a constant reminder of the injustice they have endured. They have come together in this hidden enclave to forge a new path, one marked by self-determination and the pursuit of their own destinies.

Second, this group aspires to shed the status of hunted fugitives and carve out a place where they can live free from the fear of recapture. Within the volcanic crater's confines, they have discovered both sanctuary and a sense of belonging, a safe haven from the world that seeks to extinguish their hopes. Their collective motive is to preserve this newfound refuge, to nurture it, and to guard it against the relentless forces of oppression. They seek not only personal freedom but also the freedom to build a community where all can thrive, regardless of their past or species.

• Allied with the True to attack Altaruk

• Persuaded to not join in on the attack on Altaruk

• Now act as scouts for Altaruk an receive supplies in exchange

House Reese operates within a broad scope, anchored in the city of Balic, where they wield significant influence over a wide range of services and commodities. Their reach extends far beyond the city's borders, encompassing lucrative ventures such as providing mercenaries, security services, money lending, banking, trade in valuable art objects and gems, weaponry, armor, war mounts, survival gear, military training, and the recruitment of slave conscripts and gladiators. Their symbol, a black snake skull on a golden backdrop, embodies their strategic approach, combining cunning and adaptability.

Their motives are primarily guided by pragmatism and an unwavering focus on profit maximization. House Reese maintains a strict policy of neutrality, aiming to stay unburdened by political entanglements whenever possible. However, their amoral mercenary hiring policies reflect a willingness to prioritize financial gain over ethical considerations. They approach the world with a singular allegiance—to money—making it the ultimate arbiter of their actions.

In Altaruk, their relationship with Mahlanda hinges on her ability to sustain trade equilibrium similar to her predecessor's achievements. Balic's authorities may not approve of Reese's money-lending practices, but the city recognizes the indispensable role the house plays in generating substantial tax revenue. Reese navigates rivalries with House Jarko in Balic, stemming from the differing spheres of slave trading. Within Altaruk, House Reese provides a haven from House Jarko's influence. Collaborations with House Wavir are amicable, as Reese finds solace within the shadow of the larger merchant giant. They also form effective partnerships with House Tomblador, serving as intermediaries for various mercenary transactions, emphasizing their adaptability and readiness to capitalize on opportunities for financial gain. In essence, House Reese's scope and motives are defined by their commitment to financial success and the ability to navigate complex political landscapes to achieve their objectives.

• Worked to get a moratorium for one year on the banning of slave trading

House Wavir operates within a substantial scope, centered in the city of Balic, where they oversee a diverse array of commodities and services. Their reach extends beyond the boundaries of Balic, encompassing essential goods such as food, water, textiles, survival gear, animals, medicinals, and even valuable wood from Gulg. While their primary focus is not on the slave trade, they have chosen to stand apart by ardently maintaining an antislavery policy, earning both respect and suspicion from their peers.

Their motives are multifaceted and reflect a nuanced approach to trade and power. House Wavir is driven by an unwavering commitment to their antislavery stance, a principled decision that sets them apart within the merchant community. They prioritize competition as a positive force, advocating for fair dealings and avoiding underhanded tactics against rivals.

In Altaruk, their motives are influenced by their vision of a balanced trade town. They consider Mahlanda an ally but hold her to the high standard set by her predecessor, Arisphistaneles. Their relations with Balic are cautious, aiming to maintain independence from closer Balican oversight. Cooperation defines their relationship with House Reese, where mutual support fosters order and trade. Simultaneously, their covert conflict with House Tomblador, in opposition to the slave trade, underscores their commitment to safeguarding Altaruk's safety and their standing in Balic. In essence, House Wavir's motives blend principled antislavery convictions with a strategic pursuit of balanced trade and regional influence.

• Kleinla had a secret plot to kill Praetor Verozonious uncovered but kept secret

House Tomblador operates within a significant scope, centered in the city of Balic, where they wield substantial influence in various domains. Their core business areas include the trade of vehicles, particularly silt vessels, and slaves. Additionally, they deal in textiles, giant hair, and various other commodities and services. The symbol of a black silt skimmer on a white background represents their focus on maritime and trade-related activities.

Their motives are driven by a combination of ambition and pragmatism. Despite the common societal view of arcane magic, House Tomblador remains arcanist-friendly, willingly employing practitioners of arcane arts, particularly mercenary dray sorcerers. They are unrelenting in their pursuit of ascendancy, seizing opportunities to enhance their position relative to other merchant houses, even when it involves trading in goods and services that may be shunned by their competitors.

In Altaruk, they view Mahlanda as an impediment to their interests due to her Tyrian expatriate status and antislavery stance, aiming to replace her with a Balican patrician who could counter House Wavir's influence. In Balic, their involvement in the vehicular and slave trade secures them a prominent position, supported by Balic's cultural acceptance of slavery. They maintain a working relationship with House Reese as long as the hierarchy is maintained, occasionally resorting to covert actions to ensure it. Their rivalry with House Wavir is deeply ingrained, rooted in historical competition, and they employ various means to counter Wavir's influence without escalating to open conflict. In essence, House Tomblador's scope and motives reflect a combination of adaptability, ambition, and a willingness to explore unconventional avenues for financial gain.

• Tawa Tomblador was kidnapped by The True

• Tawa Tomblador was rescued by the heroes

• Helped rig the results of a gladiatorial match

• Worked to get a moratorium for one year on the banning of slave trading

The city-state of Nibenay in the Dark Sun campaign setting is a place of mysticism, intrigue, and power. It serves as a center of arcane knowledge and is ruled by the enigmatic sorcerer-king Nibenay. The city's scope includes its reputation as a hub for arcane arts and psionics, its complex political landscape, and its economic ambitions driven by control over vital resources like water.

Motives behind Nibenay's actions include the pursuit of arcane supremacy and the preservation of its valuable arcane secrets. The city also seeks survival in the harsh world of Athas, which involves protecting essential resources, maintaining control over subjects, and defending against external threats. Additionally, Nibenay aims to expand its influence by forming alliances, annexing territories, and exerting control over nomadic tribes and settlements.

In essence, Nibenay is a city-state characterized by its mystical and arcane pursuits, political intrigue, and the drive to survive and expand its dominion in the unforgiving desert world of Dark Sun.

• Military forces sent with tribute to the Dragon

• In conflict with the Altar Skulkers

• Recently slain Templar

The scope of this tribe of refugees is focused on survival in the harsh desert world of Athas. Their primary motive is not only to endure but also to rescue others who may find themselves trapped in the treacherous Scouring Crags, sparing them from the same grim fate they narrowly escaped. This tribe's existence revolves around the unwavering pursuit of life and their commitment to defying the horrors of the Dragon's Altar, serving as both survivors and potential saviors for those in need. 

• Fought a skirmish with the Nibenese

Thania's faction in the Veiled Alliance, centered in Urik, holds a specific mission. They are dedicated to preserving arcane magic and ensuring the safety of spellcasters, all within the confines of this city-state. Their primary objectives are rooted in the protection and continuation of arcane knowledge, emphasizing a peaceful coexistence with Urik's Templars and authority figures. Rather than resorting to confrontations, they employ diplomacy, subtlety, and cultural integration to safeguard spellcasters and maintain the practice of magic. This local group's scope revolves around Urik, focusing on fostering harmony and safeguarding arcane arts amidst the watchful eyes of Urik's Templars. 

• Assisted the group in locating Morlak

Leocrcious and his Urikite splinter faction of the Veiled Alliance have a local focus on Urik and its immediate surroundings. Their motives are centered around preserving and empowering arcane magic users, but they lean towards a more aggressive stance. They believe in directly challenging Urik's oppressive Templars and seek to create a sanctuary where spellcasters can practice their craft without fear. Their actions are aimed at securing the rights and freedoms of spellcasters through assertive and confrontational means. 

The Water Hunters are a tight-knit clan of desert elves with a distinct focus on safeguarding the watery oasis that stands near Urik. In a land where water is the most precious of resources, they have taken it upon themselves to ensure the protection and preservation of this life-giving source. Their motives are driven by a deep sense of duty to their people, striving to shield the oasis from exploitation and control, especially by the powerful and aggressive House Stel. This fierce determination is rooted in their unwavering commitment to preserving their way of life, which relies heavily on the oasis's bounty in the unforgiving desert of Athas. 

• Fought a skirmish with the party where their leader escaped

The scope and motives of the Broken Builders remain largely obscured, veiled in secrecy that adds to the mystique surrounding this enigmatic group. Their operations and true objectives are hidden from the prying eyes of outsiders, leaving much to speculation. While their worship of elemental powers is evident, the specific goals and the extent of their influence in the realms of Athas remain shrouded in the shadows. The Broken Builders navigate a clandestine path, their motives concealed beneath layers of mystery, making them an elusive and unpredictable force in the harsh landscape of Athas. 

• Played a role in abducting Morlak

• Observed the party in the Temple of Tests near the Dragon's Bowl

• Sidar Garn, a Dwarven Noble in Urik, is an influential member

• Corrupted a group of druids to attempt to summon a primal force in a druid grove, thwarted by the party

• Attacked druids in the Crescent Forest outside Nibenay with a behir whelp, thwarted by the heroes

House Vordon, once a formidable and esteemed presence in the realm of Athas, underwent a significant decline largely attributed to the extravagant and erratic rule of Tyr's Sorcerer-King Kalak. Kalak's grandiose projects, particularly the construction of a massive ziggurat, depleted crucial resources and pushed the city of Tyr to the brink of financial ruin. This mismanagement fueled discontent among the city's nobles and merchants. However, with the demise of Kalak's regime and the rise of revolutionary forces and former slaves taking control of Tyr, House Vordon finds itself presented with an opportunity for resurgence. Positioned to reclaim its former prominence, the house is likely to realign its focus, seeking political influence, economic prosperity, and a restoration of its historical legacy in the evolving political landscape of Athas. 

• In recent developments within House Vordon, internal strife has intensified between cousins Thraxos and Talara, creating a rift that has implications for the house's future. This familial discord prompted Talara to enlist the group's services as covert agents, seeking to gather intelligence and gain an upper hand in the power struggle. Concurrently, Thraxos has cunningly employed dummy houses to manipulate political dynamics, subtly influencing affairs to his advantage.

• Moreover, behind the scenes, Thraxos has been orchestrating the training of a clandestine camp comprising skilled warriors and assassins. This secretive initiative appears to be aimed at bolstering House Vordon's influence through unconventional means, adding a layer of intrigue and complexity to the unfolding narrative within the house. As the cousins vie for control and employ strategic maneuvers, the group finds themselves entangled in a web of familial rivalries and hidden agendas, navigating the intricate political landscape of Athas.

The Gulgan Veiled Alliance operates within the city-state of Gulg, primarily focusing on combating oppressive forces and advancing the cause of freedom and justice within their society. Their scope encompasses various clandestine activities aimed at resisting the rule of the Oba and countering the influence of traitorous templars, known as ngangas, who have aligned with primal spirits against the interests of the people. Their motive stems from a desire to protect the rights and welfare of citizens, challenging the oppressive structures of power while striving to maintain a semblance of balance and harmony within the city-state. 

• The recent activities of the Gulgan Veiled Alliance have been marked by heightened vigilance and covert operations aimed at countering the growing influence of traitorous ngangas and the escalating civil unrest within Gulg. In response to these threats, the Alliance has intensified their efforts to gather intelligence, recruit allies, and undermine the power of those who seek to betray the Oba and serve primal spirits.

• One significant aspect of their recent activity involved reaching out to a group of outsiders, including the protagonist, regarding the presence of Alaya, a druidess believed to be a ringleader among the traitorous ngangas. Through clandestine means, the Alliance communicated critical information to the group, urging their assistance in locating Alaya and unraveling the web of treachery within Gulg.

• This outreach underscores the Veiled Alliance's strategic approach to leveraging external allies and resources to further their objectives, while also highlighting their commitment to confronting internal threats to the city-state's stability and the well-being of its populace.

The Bandit States, including the well-fortified village of Ravage, are seven independent raiding tribes scattered across the harsh Barrier Wastes. Each community is strategically built around a permanent oasis, which provides the crucial water and fertile land needed for survival in the arid desert. Populated by outlaws, ex-slaves, and other outcasts, these villages are defended by strong fortifications and a dedicated force of mercenaries. The primary motives of the Bandit States are survival and autonomy, allowing them to live free from outside control while pursuing their own agendas. Their leaders, known for their charisma and power, seek to protect their communities and exact revenge against those who have wronged them. Additionally, the Bandit States engage in trade, using their advantageous positions and resources to build economic opportunities, often through covert or aggressive means. 

• Recently, the Ravagers, have been involved in a high-stakes pursuit. Talid, the powerful leader of Ravage, enlisted the players to capture Esturren, a defiler who betrayed him by stealing a valuable artifact, the Ivory Staff. The players were tasked with tracking down Esturren, who had fled north towards the dangerous Troll Grave Chasm. The mission involved navigating treacherous terrain and facing various threats, including formidable mud fiends. Successfully capturing Esturren and retrieving the stolen staff was crucial for Ravage’s leader, who promised the players significant rewards and the eternal friendship of the Ravagers. 

The Spoilers are a lesser faction among the seven raiding tribes of the Bandit States, residing in a village built around a permanent oasis in the harsh Glowing Desert. Although they control a vital oasis, their influence and power are not as significant as that of the Ravagers. The Spoilers are driven by the same motives as other Bandit States' tribes—survival, dominance, and control over the limited resources of the desert. Their aggressive tactics and territorial disputes reflect their need to assert themselves in the cutthroat environment of the Barrier Wastes, often leading them to clash with other tribes and outsiders. 

• Recently, the Spoilers ambushed an outnumbered party of Ravagers, seizing the opportunity to assert their dominance. The ambush was swift and brutal, as the Spoilers surrounded the Ravagers with their vicious tactics and deadly intent. Despite their initial advantage, the Spoilers were ultimately defeated by the Ravagers' resolve and combat prowess. The clash highlighted the Spoilers’ aggressive nature and their constant struggle for supremacy in the unforgiving Barrier Wastes.