Dragon Heist / Dungeon of the Mad Mage

An affiliation of merchants and mercenaries known for their cutthroat tactics.

Rumors have emerged of a schism among their members in Waterdeep.

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In recent years, the Zhentarim have become more visible in the world at large, as the group works to improve its reputation among the common people.

The faction draws employees and associates from many walks of life, setting them to tasks that serve the goals of the Black Network but aren't necessarily criminal in nature.

Agents of the Black Network must often work in secret, and are frequently proficient in Deception. They seek aid from the wizards, mercenaries, merchants and priesthoods allied with the Zhentarim.

Zhentarim support could come in these ways:

• They arrange meetings with influential nobles and members of city guilds.
• Adventurers can procure discounted potions and poisons from loyal shops.
• Offers affordable mercenaries, either thugs or veterans.
• Offers loans with an interest rate of 10 percent per tenday.
• Adventurers can hire assasin, in return for some undisclosed favor to be called in later.