Tombob

Nightman leader of the Ironborn Tribe One of the most well known Nightmen in all of British America, Tombob and his Ironborn Nightmen hold sway over territory larger than many of the eastern provinces of the continent. He leads through intimidation, brute force and an uncompromising commitment to his people, drawing 11 distinct tribes and numerous clans to the Ironborn banner. His own tribe, the Red Hands are known for brutality and force, making up the primary military arm of the Ironborn. Tombob leads them directly during times of war or crisis but is now more the chief of many chieftains than leader of any one branch of the overall tribe. Ironborn expansionist tendencies have largely slowed over the last five years and Tombob has spent tremendous effort to consolidate the gains they’ve made. His leadership is shrewd, subtle and complex. He is a hero to some, provider to others and devil to those who come against him. Those who he meets say that everything about this legendary leader speaks of uncompromising authority. One observer from the St. Louis Lantern has said of him, “He speaks as if his very words make the world turn…and you believe they do!” Little is known as to Tombob’s youth or early history. He rose to prominence quite suddenly, leading a bloody revolt amongst the Red Hands, killing the former chieftain and beginning a systematic five-year campaign of conquest and consolidation under the new banner of the Ironborn. His Red Hands army expanded the Ironborn from the scattered and warring Nightmen factions throughout the region, enveloping both conquered tribes and even desperate villages on the verge of starvation. During this campaign, his reputation as a leader was born. He quickly won over the trust of other Nightman clans with three decrees: that no Ironborn would ever starve unless all the Ironborn starved; that no Ironborn would suffer the ravages of sickness if there were medicine to be had; and no child would ever be an orphan among the Ironborn. He has rigidly enforced these decrees, gaining the loyalty and devotion of his people. When times are lean, all the Ironborn suffer equally including Tombob and his Lieutenants. If there is sickness, Tombob trades for medicine, even at great cost. The tribe adopts any orphaned Ironborn children, clothed, fed, housed and cared for. Tombob’s own adopted children number well over one hundred. Tombob is a study in complexity, beloved leader, feared adversary, vicious warrior and noble champion of his people. Who Tombob really is will probably never be known, but while he rules the Ironborn, his people thrive, even in the harshest environments and times. Tombob may be the most successful Nightman leader in the history of British America.