Veylan Duskbane
Veylan Duskbane
Veylan Duskbane is a legendary figure in the Sword Coast region of Faerûn, renowned for his relentless crusade against dragons and his unwavering commitment to maintaining the balance between nature and civilization. His legacy endures through the Emerald Enclave and the Talons of Veylan, factions that continue to uphold his ideals.
- Race: Human (later became Elf through unknown means)
- Class: Ranger (Dragon Slayer)
- Alignment: Neutral Good
- Affiliations: Emerald Enclave, Talons of Veylan
- Era: Late 8th century DR (approximately 700 years ago)
- Status: Deceased; spirit lingers within his tomb
Biography
Veylan Duskbane emerged during a time of escalating conflicts between dragons and the denizens of the Sword Coast. A master ranger and tactician, he dedicated his life to hunting dragons that threatened the natural order. His most notable achievement was the slaying of the elder black dragon Nythrazhul, whose skull now serves as the entrance to Veylan's tomb.
Recognizing the need for a structured approach to protect the balance of nature, Veylan founded the Talons of Veylan, a militant sect within the Emerald Enclave. The Talons specialize in identifying and eliminating threats that disrupt the equilibrium between civilization and the wild.
Veylan believed that the greatest threat to the balance of nature came not from civilization, but from the unchecked destruction wrought by evil dragons and those who seek to enslave nature through arcane corruption.
Legacy and Tomb
Veylan's tomb is a testament to his life's work, constructed within the remains of Nythrazhul, the black dragon he slew over 700 years ago. The tomb is filled with murals depicting his battles, inscriptions of his philosophies, and the lingering presence of his spirit. Adventurers who seek out the tomb often report encounters with Veylan's ghost, who tests their intentions and worthiness.
When the red dragon Vaartox made the tomb his lair, Veylan's spirit was able to trap the dragon within using the tomb's residual magic.
Influence on the Emerald Enclave
The Emerald Enclave continues to honor Veylan's teachings, with the Talons of Veylan serving as the organization's martial arm. Members of the Talons are trained in the art of dragon slaying and are often dispatched to address significant threats to the natural world.
Veylan's emphasis on balance over blind aggression has also inspired the formation of other sects within the Enclave, such as the Scales of Eldath, which advocate for harmony even with traditionally evil beings, provided they do not disrupt the natural order.
Role in Campaign
Veylan's spirit called out to Keyleth through her pixie swarm, summoning her to his tomb to help destroy Vaartox the Red. This indicated that Keyleth was a natural fit for the Talons of Veylan.
After the battle, he bestowed upon Keyleth the rank of Talon Initiate (2nd level in the Emerald Enclave) and gifted her his legendary sword Wyrmreaver along with other powerful items from his hoard. He also taught her the secrets of damage resistance through her dragon hunt.
He also provided information about the Skarhald Clan to Xanphina, suggesting she seek their final resting places to help their spirits return to Starspire Grove. He knew of them during his lifetime 700 years ago.
When asked what his order calls themselves, Veylan jokingly suggested 'The Branch Managers,' though Keyleth disagreed with the name.
Relationships
- Emerald Enclave – Founder of the Talons of Veylan order
- Keyleth – Recognized her as a Talon of Veylan and bestowed upon her the rank of Talon Initiate
- Nythrazhul – The black dragon he slew, whose skull became his tomb
- Vaartox the Red – Trapped in Veylan's tomb and ultimately slain with his help
- Skarhald Clan – Knew of them during his lifetime 700 years ago
- Xanphina – Provided guidance about her clan's history
In-Game Relevance
In the Rise of Tiamat campaign, Veylan Duskbane's tomb serves as a pivotal location. Players may encounter his spirit, which can offer guidance, challenges, or warnings based on their actions and alignment. The tomb also holds valuable artifacts and knowledge crucial to thwarting the Cult of the Dragon's plans.