Bound by Iron is the first entry in the novel series The Inquisitives. It was written by Edward Bolme and was published in 2007 by Wizards of the Coast. The story revolves around Cimozjen as he attempts to investigate the brutal murder of his friend Torval shortly after finding his corpse in a river. The story is primarily set in Karrnath.
“
He was a decorated soldier, thought to have died twenty years ago. But yesterday in Karrnath his body washed ashore, unkempt, dressed in rags... and murdered.
Now it's up to a hardened soldier out for cold vengeance and a chronicler looking for a story to unravel a dead man's past -- and with it, the future of Khorvaire.
”
Main Characters[]
- Cimozjen Hellekanus A Paladin of Dol Dorn and a former soldier of a Karrnathi special unit called the Iron Band. Cimozjen is faithful to the Sovereign Host and follows the teachings of Dol Dorn strictly. He is a veteran of the Last War and carries many painful memories of those days. In battle, he always tries to avoid killing his opponent. He carries both a sword and staff, using the latter to beat down opponents without causing grievous injury. When wounding an opponent is unavoidable, Cimojzen uses his divine powers to heal his opponent, even if they still hold a grudge against him.
- Minrah A mischievous and mysterious elf bard who desires a real story above all else. She claims she has no family name and that she never had one. Her morals are brought into question throughout the story, as she seems to resent the gods that Cimozjen worships and often attempts to sleep with him despite knowing he is married. Minrah lacks any real combat skills and will hide behind her allies whenever she feels threatened. Her contributions to the party lie in her ability to manipulate people through word and her roguish talents.
- Fighter/Four A warforged with a dark past that has left it with little social skills and a vague understanding of society. He is often treated like a child; he misunderstands idioms by taking them literally and has a natural naivety. Despite his faults, Fighter is a loyal companion who values his new found friendship with Minrah and Cimozjen.
Minor Characters[]
- Torval Ellinger A former Iron Band soldier and a friend to Cimozjen. Torval fought alongside Cimozjen during the Last War and was born in Rekkenmark. Torval has a tattoo of a wolf clutching the crown of Galifar rendered in the old heraldry style, which he claims it to be the traditional mark of his homeland.
- Rophis son of Raanel Also known as "Rophis the wine monger" or "Rophis of Fairhaven", he is a tall wealthy merchant who is kind and charming.
- Yorin Thauram II A young half-elf and the captain of the White Lions of the city of Korth. He displays the cliche arrogant elven demeanor with pride and shows little empathy.
- Pomindras A human male who is the commander aboard the Silver Cygnet ship. His hair is shaven and upon his face is a goatee.
Plot Synopsis[]
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Trivia[]
- Despite the series being titled The Inquisitives, no professional inquisitives are featured in the novel.
- Despite Cimozjen's mature age and military service in the Karnathi army, the Emerald Claw and Blood of Vol are never referenced.
Full cover art.