Table of Contents
Beneath the tranquil surface of Rustport, a hidden power struggle rages between various factions. The Water Wights, which once fought for control of the port, the locally dominant Carmine Whispers, and the mysterious yet powerful Dead Tide Fleet now engage in intricate battles inside and outside the port. While each faction pursues its own ambitions, who will emerge as the victor in this struggle for power?
Water Wights
Once the second-largest gang in Rustport, the Water Wights engaged in a fierce battle for control of the port with the Carmine Whispers. Ultimately, they lost the fight and were forced to withdraw, now relegated to a desolate area outside the city. Unwilling to accept defeat, the Water Wights aligned themselves with the powerful Dead Tide Fleet, becoming their pawns and carrying out frequent raids on Rustport, particularly focusing on the Carmine Whispers in an attempt to regain their lost power.
Most members of the Water Wights are impoverished dockworkers, known for their excellent swimming skills, launching swift and brutal attacks in the sea and along the coast. Although their methods are rough and ruthless, many within the gang joined out of necessity and may not truly aspire to a life of crime. Perhaps, when the fog lifts, some of them will still long for a chance to leave the shadows and start anew.
Dead Tide Fleet
The Dead Tide Fleet is an army of undead led by Hodgkin, rumored to have risen from the depths of the dark sea, backed by endless vengeful spirits. Each ship in the fleet is shrouded in curses, sails drifting like ghosts in the eerie wind, with tattered flags of death hanging from the masts. The fleet's methods are unpredictable and cunning, particularly excelling in water ambushes. They can appear and disappear at will, bringing with them a tidal wave of fear and destruction. It is said that their target is Rustport, and occupying this harbor would provide a crucial stronghold for the undead to expand their dark influence. In this endless sea, the emergence of the Dead Tide Fleet spells doom for the living.
Carmine Whispers
Originating from a family that gained wealth through smuggling, the Carmine Whispers has become the largest criminal force in Rustport. Over the years, they have accumulated wealth and influence, ultimately taking control of the entire port and attempting to legitimize their family business after seizing power. The former gang leader, Tesio, solidified their position through cold and ruthless means, but the gang is now led by his successor, Sonja. Despite Sonja's leadership, the power transfer was not entirely smooth, and conflicts continue to brew within the gang.
With a strong and experienced approach, the Carmine Whispers, despite being a gang, places significant emphasis on rules and etiquette. They promote a sense of ritual within the organization, ensuring that all major decisions and actions are meticulously planned to project a composed and formidable image. For the Carmine Whispers, it is vital to wield ruthless tactics in the shadows while upholding the family's honor and traditions outwardly.
Ending Remarks
The power struggle in Rustport is like a silent storm, with the Water Wights, Carmine Whispers, and Dead Tide Fleet wagering everything. The victor will control the harbor, while the losers will be forever lost in darkness. Through the reputation tasks associated with these factions, Magister Merlin will gain deeper insight into these gangs and uncover their hidden narratives.
