**The Eternal [[Blood War]]**: Far from the mortal realm, a cosmic conflict rages between devils and demons that has lasted for eons. Devils seek to dominate through contracts and cunning, while demons pursue only destruction. This [[Blood War]] consumes countless souls across the multiverse, with both sides constantly seeking new recruits and resources. Mortals often become unwitting pawns in this cosmic conflict. **[[Elturel]]: Bastion of Faith and Light**: [[Elturel]] stands as a holy city where faith permeates daily life. Led by High Observer [[Thavius Kreeg]], the city venerates multiple deities but particularly honors [[Torm]], the god of duty and loyalty. The [[Companion]]—also called the Second Sun—hovers constantly overhead as a radiant orb whose light once purged undead from the land. Citizens begin and end their days with prayers of thanks to the [[Companion]], and the city's laws flow from religious doctrine. The [[Creed Resolute]], sworn by all [[Hellriders]] and the [[Order of the Companion]], binds them in service to both [[Elturel]] and the holy light that protects it. **[[Baldur's Gate]]: City of Ambitious Shadows**: While [[Elturel]] stands as a beacon of holy light, [[Baldur's Gate]] thrives in moral twilight, driven by ambition rather than virtue. The city divides into three sections: the wealthy Upper City, the crowded Lower City, and the sprawling Outer City beyond the walls. Real power flows through the Council of Four, with Duke [[Ulder Ravengard]] serving as military authority through command of the [[Flaming Fist]]. Behind the scenes, criminal guilds, religious cults, and noble houses compete for influence. Despite its reputation for corruption, the city's aggressive independence has weathered countless threats. **A Fragile Peace**: Duke [[Ulder Ravengard|Ravengard]]'s diplomatic mission to [[Elturel]] represents a major breakthrough after decades of tension. The summit represents the first serious attempt to repair relations between [[Elturel]], [[Baldur's Gate]], and the [[Lords' Alliance]] in decades. The diplomacy is delicate, with old grudges threatening to derail progress. Success would significantly strengthen the [[Sword Coast]] against growing threats. **The Return of Ancient Evils**: The [[Cult of the Dead Three]] has resurfaced across the region, performing ritual murders and desecrating temples. Their followers venerate [[Bhaal]] (Lord of Murder), [[Bane]] (Lord of Tyranny), and [[Myrkul]] (Lord of Bones). Rumors speak of other dark faiths operating in unexpected places, including [[Elturel]]. **The Legacy of the [[Hellriders]]**: The [[Hellriders]] earned their name when they pursued devil prince [[Nothius]] into [[Avernus]] to rescue Lady [[Yael]], beloved of High Rider [[Olanthius]]. In this legendary charge, they defeated a blood legion of [[Nine Hells]], but [[Olanthius]] and [[Yael]] sacrificed themselves to delay a second legion so the other Riders could escape. Where they fell, a spring of holy water emerged that was poison to devils. This heroic tale defines [[Elturel]]'s identity and the [[Hellriders]]' reputation.