| Category | Companies | ||||
| Business | banking, mercenary | ||||
| Region | Hells Womb, High Wood Country, Lands of Purity, Northern Hordelands | ||||
| Headquarters | Celebriän | ||||
| Size | |||||
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| Alignment | non-evil | ||||
| Deities | varies | ||||
| Symbol | head of a lance with attached horse tail | ||||
| Established | 19 Saunas 1311 DE |
The Hawkthorn Division is a financial institution and mercenary organization with branch offices spanning the southeastern reaches of Brucrumus.
The centaur band has its origins as a group of outlaw centaurs. The ensemble formed on 19 Saunas 1311 DE, just over a decade after the creation of Centaurs in an entirely different world from their current residence. The early history of centaurs on Kriav was one of sparse friendships outside their own kind. Shunned by the Tungesti, the Kriavfahliil, and others, they were social outcasts. Some perceived them as abominations, bestial, cursed, or spawned from divine displeasure. The Centaurs became the very embodiment of how others viewed them - ruffians who preyed on the weak, robbing, stealing, and ransoming, only resorting to necessary killings. With time, the group's effectiveness was such that they were employed as mercenaries for merchant caravans and later as mercenary units for non-evil masters.
The Hawkthorn Division had grown to encompass individuals from diverse backgrounds by the God Era. Regardless of their role or age, the sole prerequisite was that they be seasoned equestrians. Currently, the military contingent of the Hawkthorn Division is likely the most agile and formidable cavalry force within Bal-Kriav.
The company has a longstanding tradition of prudent financial management. Early records of the group mention their study of mathematics and business practices while assisting various merchants. Over time, the merchants came to trust the group, with some entrusting their valuables under centaur protection, effectively creating a mobile banking system. During the First Epoch, the company established a dedicated banking division and constructed their first permanent bank in Celebriän, followed by another in Idril fifty years later. These institutions, along with those established since, are known as the Stable Banks, and they maintain a distinguished appearance. The company's wealth, derived from banking and mercenary activities, has enabled them to equip their members with magical weapons and armor of exceptional quality. The only common item worn by each member is a pair of enchanted horseshoes that grant increased speed.
The Hawkthorn Division maintains operations in jurisdictions where banks are resistant to plundering by local authorities. The company's mercenary wing is available for hire by non-malevolent organizations, though the cost is 20% greater for chaotic clients.