Scales of Eldath
Scales of Eldath
The Scales of Eldath are a contemplative subfaction of the Emerald Enclave, founded by a peaceful conclave of druids and monks devoted to the goddess Eldath, Lady of Peace. While the Emerald Enclave defends the balance of nature, the Scales go further—they seek to preserve equilibrium among all forces, even those considered evil.
Overview
To the Scales, nature is not good or evil—it simply is. Storms rage, forests burn, predators hunt. So too, must all things have their place. Even dragons, the most destructive forces of nature, may serve as instruments of balance—if they are guided, or at least not antagonized.
Members of the Scales of Eldath prefer diplomacy to destruction. They work to rehabilitate twisted lands, soothe monstrous spirits, and persuade potential enemies to live in harmony. However, they are not pacifists: when the balance is truly threatened—as with the rise of Tiamat—they respond with decisive, restorative action.
Sacred groves, mirrored lakes, and moonlit glades serve as meeting places and sanctuaries. Scales of Eldath often travel alone or in pairs, quietly spreading healing and peace across the Sword Coast.
Unlike the Talons of Veylan who believe all evil chromatic dragons must be destroyed, the Scales of Eldath take a more nuanced view: they believe that even some evil dragons have their place in the natural balance, though not all. Members find their way to this order naturally rather than being selected—if the philosophy resonates with them, the path opens.
Beliefs
- Balance includes all creatures.
- Even evil has a place in the cycle.
- Violence is a last resort.
Methods
- Diplomacy, sanctuary, warding sacred groves.
Desired Outcome
Stop the Cult of the Dragon while preserving the balance of nature.
Renown System
Gaining Renown:
- Convince a dangerous creature to abandon violence or migrate from a vulnerable area.
- Protect a sacred natural site through diplomacy or restoration.
- Prevent bloodshed between conflicting groups.
- Aid in the redemption or healing of a corrupted being.
- Stand in defense of a peaceful settlement or grove.
- Meditate for days at an ancient site, communing with the land.
Losing Renown:
- Resort to violence when peaceful options remain.
- Destroy creatures or people who pose no immediate threat.
- Desecrate, ignore, or exploit sacred or living spaces.
- Break an oath of peace or neutrality without consultation.
- Allow emotion or vengeance to dictate your actions.
Ranks
Rank 1 – Grovekeeper
You are welcomed into the Scales with a ritual of stillness. You serve as a caretaker of natural sites and observer of conflicts. Elders may test your commitment to peace by assigning you to resolve tense situations.
Rank 2 – Rivercaller
You are trusted to act as a mediator. You may be tasked with escorting emissaries, preserving sacred land, or offering guidance to other Enclave members. You have access to quiet sanctuaries for healing and reflection.
Rank 3 – Balancewarden
You guide others on the path of equilibrium. You may teach younger druids, defend key groves, or negotiate with powerful forces like dragons, fey, or celestials. You speak with the voice of Eldath's grace.
Rank 4 – Peacebearer
You are a pillar of the Scales, tasked with the most delicate and dangerous missions of balance. You judge disputes between factions, are consulted in major conclaves, and have authority over sacred sites.
Rank 5 – Avatar of Balance
You are the living embodiment of Eldath's ideal. Beasts lie at your feet. Monsters hesitate before harming you. You are welcome in every grove, river, and temple that honors life. The natural world itself may respond to your presence.
Notable Members
- Thalara Mistgrove – A Scale of Eldath who inducted Karma
- Karma – Grovekeeper (first rank), inducted in Session 37
Campaign Involvement
Thalara Mistgrove recognized that Karma bears an aura of protection and balance, and invited her to join the Scales of Eldath. After the party defeated Vaartox the Red, Thalara consoled Karma about the necessity of removing some dragons from the balance and bestowed upon her the rank of Grovekeeper.