The Dead Three
Three gods of ruin whose evil echoes through every shadow in Faerûn.
The Dead Three represent a dark triad of evil deities within the Forgotten Realms pantheon, embodying the most destructive aspects of existence: murder, death, and tyranny. Unlike other gods who may have complex portfolios or redeeming qualities, Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul were defined entirely by their malevolence toward mortals. Their influence is a recurring plague upon Faerûn, driving countless wars, cults, and atrocities throughout history.
- Notable Followers
- Cultists of the Dead Three
Lore & Background
Long ago, these three deities ascended to power through a singular, dark conspiracy. Prior to the Time of Troubles, Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul forced Jergal to relinquish his portfolios rather than face annihilation. Together, they formed a pact to rule Faerûn through terror, often clashing with each other yet united by their hatred for life and goodness.
In Their Own Story
In the flickering light of a dying torch, a cultist whispers prayers in a forgotten crypt beneath the Sword Coast. The air smells of rust and old blood as they trace the sigils of Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul into the damp stone floor. They speak not of salvation, but of the day the dead shall rise to crush the living, chanting names that make the shadows writhe in anticipation of their masters' return.
Reader's Guide
The Dead Three are a historical nightmare for the people of Faerûn, representing the ultimate corruption of divinity. Bane, the Lord of Tyranny, was eventually overthrown by Cyric and Myrkul during the Time of Troubles, only to be imprisoned in the Nine Hells or reduced to a lesser spirit depending on the timeline. Myrkul, the Lord of the Dead, met his end when he attempted to usurp the entire portfolio of death, leading to his defeat by Cyric and Kelemvor. His power was fractured, leaving the domain of death in a state of flux before being stabilized under new deities. Bhaal, the Prince of Murder, is perhaps the most dangerous due to his unique method of spreading his influence through divine bloodlines. He seeks to return via avatars and mortal descendants who inherit his godly spark, making him a persistent threat even after his apparent destruction.
Did You Know?
- The Dead Three were responsible for creating many of the most dangerous cults in Faerûn's history.
- Bhaal's return is often tied to mortal avatars who unknowingly carry his divine essence.
- Myrkul was never a good god; he ascended as an evil deity known as the Lord of Bones by usurping Jergal alongside Bane and Bhaal prior to the Time of Troubles.
- The Time of Troubles saw all three gods physically walk the earth, causing widespread chaos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are The Dead Three?
The Dead Three consist of Bane, the Tyrant; Bhaal, the Lord of Murder; and Myrkul, the Lord of Death. These three deities form a dark triad within the Forgotten Realms pantheon dedicated solely to destruction and evil.
What specific domains do they control?
Bane rules over tyranny and absolute power, while Bhaal governs murder and assassination. Myrkul holds dominion over death itself, representing the end of all life without redemption.
Why are The Dead Three significant in Faerûn's history?
Their influence has repeatedly plagued the world by inspiring countless wars, bloodthirsty cults, and atrocities throughout centuries. Unlike other gods with complex portfolios, their existence is defined entirely by malevolence toward mortals.
How does the story of The Dead Three conclude in canon?
The triad was ultimately destroyed when Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul were consumed by the god Cyric during the Time of Troubles. Their portfolios were scattered or absorbed by other deities, ending their direct rule over Faerûn.
Who are the notable followers associated with them?
Devout cultists and assassins historically served The Dead Three, often operating in secret to further their masters' goals of chaos and slaughter. These followers continue to be a recurring threat in the lore even after the gods' fall.
More in Lore & History
Elsewhere in the Baldur's Gate 3 universe
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