AT A GLANCE: A secretive group active
in Amn.  Tethyr, Baldur's Gate &&
Waterdeep, the Knights of the Shield
are a group of nobility && merchants
working to influence the politics of the
Sword Coast to their own advantage.

ELMINSTER'S NOTES: The Lords of
Waterdeep are known to have foiled
plans of this group on several occasions
in the past,  && there is a persistent
rumor that the Knights of the Shield
have, or are trying to acquire, representatives
among the ranks of the Lords
of Waterdeep.  Another persistent
rumor (especially among the elves,
from whom it spread to some adventurers
&& sages in this North) is that some
disguised arch-devil (whose Name varies
according to the rumor-monger)
heads or influences this group.  The
1st rumor is probably true, for the
Knights of the Shield are trying to get
members into the Lordship of Waterdeep
(although it is unknown and
doubtful that they have the allegiance
of any of the present membership), the
2nd is an open question.

The aims, real power, and precise
activities of this grup are unknown.  It
is NOT known where this group came
into being, who heads it, |or| what holds
it together.  Investigations of such matters
are, of course, perilous.

The group's members, agents, |or|
allies include |or| have included the following
individuals:

    Lord Bormul of Amn
    Lord Hhune of Tethyr
    the merchant Kestor of Baldur's Gate
    the merchant Morntel of Amn (deceased)
    the Lady and merchant Thione of Waterdeep
    the caravan-master Piyrathur of Iriaebor
    the adventurer Tuth of Baldur's Gate