S - Above Below Collective

The Above Below Collective, or “The ABCs of Crime,” is a notorious, sophisticated, and widespread thieves' guild in the throughout the "Lands of the Sphinxes" on the world of Sethrophos, operating under the guiding philosophy of "As Above, So Below" which intertwines the cosmos with their criminal endeavors. Their adaptability and deep-rooted belief in the connection between the microcosm and macrocosm make them a formidable and enigmatic force in the world of Sethrophos. This concept, rooted in the ancient Hermetic text, the Emerald Tablet, suggests a profound connection between the cosmos and earthly life, emphasizing that the microcosm and macrocosm are interlinked. For the guild, this means that the structure and operations of their organization mirror the broader universe, creating a balance and harmony within their criminal activities. The motto "As Above, So Below" is the core of the Collective’s belief system. It implies that their actions on the mortal plane have corresponding effects on higher planes of existence, and vice versa. This philosophical underpinning is reflected in their meticulous planning and execution of heists, as they believe that a well-executed crime on earth is mirrored by a celestial balance. The guild’s adherence to the "As Above, So Below" philosophy extends into their spiritual practices. They revere celestial deities and often consult astrologers to determine the best times for their operations, believing that the alignment of the stars influences their success. The Above Below Collective operates with a strict hierarchy, mirroring the structured nature of the cosmos. The guild is divided into cells, each led by a master thief who reports to higher-ranking officials, ensuring that every action is coordinated and aligned with the guild's overall strategy. The guild's leadership is known as the Constellation, symbolizing their connection to the stars and the greater universe.
=== Influence Across Sethrophos ===
The Above Below Collective is active in various nation-states across Sethrophos, each adapting their operations to fit the local culture and political landscape.
==== Kingdom of Meridian ====
In the devout and baroque society of Meridian, the guild operates under the guise of religious piety. They exploit the grand cathedrals and the strict societal structures to carry out their activities discreetly. Their Leader is Sylria Moonshadow (Half-Elf, Assassin), "The Queen of the Slums" is a silent and deadly operative, adept at eliminating targets without a trace. Her two aides are Ravena Brightspark (Human, Arcane Trickster) a charismatic thief with a penchant for disguises, known for her sharp wit and cunning plans, and Dargan Stonefist (Dwarf, Thief) a robust and fearless rogue who uses his mining background to execute subterranean heists.
Noocracy of Thalassia
In Thalassia, renowned for its magical prowess, the guild leverages magical artifacts and spells to enhance their thievery, often targeting enchanted items and knowledge. Their leader is Cyrus Windrunner (Human, Swashbuckler), a dashing and daring leader, known for his acrobatic skills and charm. He is flanked by his mate, Lyra Starweaver (Elf, Arcane Trickster), a master of illusion and enchantment, using her skills to deceive and outwit opponents.
Vervanna Expanse
In the lush rainforests of Vervanna, the guild blends in with the natural environment, using the dense foliage and dangerous wildlife to their advantage. The Leader here is Jaguar Fang (Tabaxi, Scout), a nimble and agile rogue, adept at navigating the treacherous terrain and evading capture. He leads Ixchel Leafblade (Half-Elf, Thief), a master of herbalism and poisons, using natural toxins to incapacitate enemies and Quetzal Caimanscale (Lizardfolk, Assassin), a cold-blooded and efficient killer, utilizing his reptilian stealth to ambush targets.