Leech Syndicate

> **"Our blood is the same. We just use it differently." -Patrick deWitt**
>
>

The Leech Syndicate is a criminal organization that primarily focuses on assisting those with curse amps. Their secondary goal, occasionally usurping the first, is to maintain themselves. Members are notorious for their black-suited aesthetic, and their overall combat prowess is something to be feared by those who dare tread in their domain. Forseti authorities and Soterians have pursued them for years with minimal information, as kidnapping victims, suspected to be taken by the Syndicate, are often never heard from again. In addition, any captured members are promptly assassinated, no matter the security. As a result, any and all information regarding this dangerous Syndicate is highly sought after.

## History

The Syndicate began sometime in the 2040's, as but a small, home-run operation and gang called the "Vampires". They would jump people on the streets and beat them into unconsciousness before taking their blood, and then sell it to the highest bidder. As time went on, however, the leaders wanted a better reputation. They did not want to be seen as petty blood-thieves or hooligans, but as an organization with prowess and code. Something to be proud of. Through diligent black market investments and operations, they were able to begin building up the aesthetic that they are known for now. Sometime in the 2060's, they went entirely dark. Their operations became incredibly secretive, and only certain individuals were allowed to even contact them. This ended up being a positive exchange. Though it made things difficult when it came to recruiting people, it caused the Syndicate to become safer and more connected. In addition, those who *have* heard of them may want to seek them out for recruitment, which is a Herculean task without proper guidance. In present times, they have avoided being in the public's eye, and while many individuals in the underground know their name, precious few actually know about them without having joined themselves. Yet, like many other organizations in Forseti, they are a looming threat. A sleeping giant that may wake up and take someone in the night, should it grow hungry.

## Creed

The personal creed of the Leech Syndicate is that nobody should go hungry, even those who must consume the flesh and blood of others. To fulfill this, they often kidnap people, using them like lambs to the slaughter. Afterwards, they sell the assets to black market buyers. For members, however, they are given their necessities for free, somewhat as payment for being in the Syndicate.

Philosophy-wise, they *try* to be morally right. While some may see this as a crude attempt at justifying their morbid actions, their leaders see it as a means of balancing the bad with the good. In order to accomplish this karmic pursuit, Syndicate members are told to never harm or kill unless absolutely necessary. In addition, benefits are provided for all members, new and old, such as bedrooms, food, and of course, any human-source necessity they may find themselves in need of.

## Rankings

Standing as an example of the Syndicate's view on order, they have a series of ranks for their members. Rankings are based on things such as the amount of time spent in the Syndicate, the skills of the individual in question, and their association to preexisting members of the Syndicate.

### Newcomer

This ranking is, of course, for those fairly recent to joining the Syndicate. As a newcomer, members are given their suits, and basic assignments to complete in order to move on to the next ranking. For security reasons, they aren't allowed inside many places within the Syndicate complex, as it would be too much of a risk. As for weapons and skills, newcomers are given no training and no weaponry, but they may acquire a pistol as per request.

### Fledgling

Fledglings are just above newcomer rank, and it is at this point where members are considered active and working. They are given a pistol which is mandatory for them to have on their person during operations. General combat lessons are offered.