Knights of the Black Fist

The Knights of the Black Fist, that originated as the Brothers of the Black Fist, was the military force that dutifully served the city-state of Phlan during the late 14 and 15 centuries DR. While they originated as zealous warriors of Iyachtu Xvim, the Black Fist had tenuous connections with the faith of Bane that waned as the fighting force shifted its alignment to that of Phlan as a political power of the Moonsea.

Activities
While the soldiers of the Black Fist served as the military force of Phlan, the Black Watch militia served as its primary law enforcement group within the city, having held those duties for decades upon decades. During times of internal strife however, the Knights of the Black Fist began to patrol the city streets themselves, enacting marshal law and forming an oppressive feeling of dread among the citizens of Phlan.

Tactics
In the years following their formation the knights were seen as stalwart defenders against the encroaching threat of the returned Netherese Empire. As strong leadership in Phlan waned over the years, the knights earned a reputation for corrupt practices and resorted to using brute force against the city's own citizens.

Base of Operations
They maintained forces at Sokol Keep to watch over the sea fortress' lighthouse,

Relationships
The Vilhon Mercenary Corps were formed by Lord Caleb Randol in direct response to the power the Black Fist held under the direction of the Lord Protector.

History
The Brothers of the Black Fist was formed an elite fighting force following the death of Bane during the Time of Troubles, and was still in its infancy as of the. The 30-odd warriors of Iyachtu Xvim were originally stationed out of the Citadel of the Raven in the Dragonspine Mountains, led by Captain Cvaal Daoran.

After the unexpected death of Lord Protector Anivar in a construction accident in Valjevo Castle, Ector Brahms assumed the title of Lord Protector and led Knights during a period of great decline in Phlan. The Black Fists enacted marshal law and the city's guilds began competing with one another and the local theives' guild until crime became rampant.

and led them against the attempted takeover of Phlan by the green dragon Vorgansharax and his sect of of the restored Cult of the Dragon. When Brahms fell during the battles that broke out in the city, and Knight Commander Aleyd Burral was slain following his seduction into the cults of the Elemental Evil, Jhessail Greycastle emerged as the orders new leader. Determined to take back her home city,