The Thirteen

    The Thirteen is an autonomous military faction within the Poasan military. During their formation shortly before the Poasan-Apgarian Conflict, the group consisted solely of women. Not only were male spellcasters exceedingly rare at the time, but it was believed that male spellcasters wore a wildcard, as most of them tended to cause Wild Magic.

    Today, they are still made up of primarily women, but they have also started recruiting promising male spellcasters.

    History 🔗

    The Thirteen was officially founded in 1244 AI, approximately six years before the outbreak of the Poasan-Apgarian Conflict in 1250 AI. Their formation was, in part, a strategic military decision by the Kingdom of Poasah in preparation for the growing tensions with the Apgarian Confederacy.

    It is unknown exactly why their group was named The Thirteen, but there are two common theories. The first is that they were originally a group of thirteen women selected by the King of Poasah due to their magical ability. Second, is that they chose that cursed number because none dared call their battalion the 13th, due to the stigma associated with the number.

    Notable Members 🔗

    The Thirteen has included several notable members throughout its history:

    • Samantha Ardenne - One of the heroes of the Poasan-Apgarian Conflict and member of The Thirteen. Historical records suggest she may have had connections to the Reformist church, with some sources indicating she may have acted as an informant or agent for Reformist interests within the organization.
    • Sirra Kita - Eldest daughter of Duke of Trade, Coro Kita of Calamutz, who joined The Thirteen while serving at the Northeast Garrison at Fort Mountain-Foot

    Role in Poasan Affairs 🔗

    The Thirteen maintains close ties with the Poasan government and religious institutions. In recent times, members of The Thirteen have worked in coordination with the clergy aligned with the Reformist church, gaining the King's ear on matters of state importance. They have been tasked with sensitive missions such as addressing plagues in Northern Poasah without resorting to controversial methods.

    Their influence extends beyond purely military matters, with members sometimes serving in intelligence-gathering capacities both within Poasah and in neighboring territories.

    Religious Alignments and Internal Politics 🔗

    The relationship between The Thirteen and the Reformist church has been particularly notable in recent history. While The Thirteen was originally established as a secular military unit focused on magical warfare, certain members have developed strong ties with Reformist clergy. This alliance has granted both factions significant influence in the royal court.

    However, this relationship has not been without controversy. There are indications of internal divisions within The Thirteen regarding religious alignment, with some members maintaining traditional loyalties while others have embraced Reformist doctrine. These divisions have occasionally led to suspicions of divided loyalties and potential compromises in the organization's cohesion.

    Military Achievements 🔗

    The Thirteen played a crucial role in the Poasan-Apgarian Conflict, with historical records suggesting they were instrumental in forcing the Apgarian surrender. Their magical capabilities provided the Poasan forces with a significant tactical advantage that ultimately helped bring the five-year conflict to an end in 1255 AI.