Eclipse Syndicate

From Solas Tempus DB
The logo of the Eclipse Syndicate

The Eclipse Syndicate, as an organization, possesses a remarkable adaptability that allows it to mold and transform to serve its own interests and the needs of the ever-shifting society in which it operates. While historically associated with the peddling of death and corruption, the syndicate reveals another side—a profound commitment to safeguarding its most cherished communities and individuals. With an unwavering fervor rarely witnessed elsewhere, the Eclipse Syndicate employs its resources and influence to provide protection and security to those who fall under its purview. This duality encapsulates the complex nature of the organization, as it navigates the murky realms of power and criminality, balancing its darker pursuits with a fervent dedication to shielding what it holds dear. The Eclipse Syndicate, ever malleable and adaptive, exists as a force that defies simple categorization, offering both malevolence and protection within its enigmatic embrace.

The Eclipse Syndicate, despite its formidable nature, did not live to witness the establishment of the world government in 2107. Its demise came swiftly and brutally during the harrowing weeks known as the Dawn of the New Era. In a torrent of violence and bloodshed, the syndicate was decimated, its reign of power brought to a cataclysmic end. The streets ran red as the forces of justice rose, determined to purge the world of the Syndicate's malevolence. These weeks etched a grim chapter in history, leaving an indelible mark on the collective memory of Aurorion, forever symbolizing the definitive end of the Eclipse Syndicate and the birth of a new era.

Values

Operating within a dark and steam-punk ambiance, the Eclipse Syndicate upholds a set of values that reflect their distinctive nature and pursuit of power. Rooted in the core principles of organized crime, these values take on a twisted manifestation, characterized by darkness, intrigue, and an unwavering focus on survival. Adapted to suit their clandestine operations and maintain their dominance in a society teetering on the edge of shadows, these values define the essence of the Eclipse Syndicate. They embrace loyalty as the supreme currency, demanding unwavering commitment and sacrifice. Respect is earned through displays of cunning and dominance, while silence serves as an armor to protect their secrets. Violence is their tool to enforce authority, instill fear, and eliminate threats. Greed fuels their insatiable desire for wealth and power, while the pursuit of control and dominance drives their relentless quest for influence. In this dark and steam-punk-infused world, the Eclipse Syndicate personifies a unique blend of values, molding them to thrive within the shadows and maintain their grip on power.

Family
Within the Eclipse Syndicate, the title of "Family" holds the highest honor and carries immense benefits, both economic and personal. Members who are bestowed with this distinction become part of an exclusive network, bonded by unwavering loyalty and mutual self-interest. They enjoy unparalleled protection, shared resources, and opportunities for advancement in the steam-punk underworld. However, this honor comes with significant responsibilities. Family members are expected to give their lives without question for the sake of their fellow members and the syndicate. The bonds of loyalty and trust run deep, reinforcing their unity and resilience in the face of external threats.
Respect
Respect within the Eclipse Syndicate is shrouded in an air of trepidation. Members must show deference to those in positions of power, navigating a delicate dance of deferential language and body language. Disputes are settled with a mix of cunning negotiations, tense standoffs, and, when necessary, violent demonstrations to assert dominance.
Loyalty
Loyalty reigns as the supreme currency within the Eclipse Syndicate, surpassing even money and power in significance. It is the lifeblood that binds the organization together, forged through shared experiences, a common quest for survival, and the pursuit of prosperity. Members are held to the highest standards of unwavering loyalty, their allegiance expected in every fiber of their being. They willingly accept perilous assignments, understanding that their loyalty to the syndicate supersedes personal safety. Safeguarding the syndicate's closely held secrets becomes a sacred duty, entrusted to their unwavering commitment and readiness to sacrifice everything in the name of loyalty.
Silence
Silence is elevated to an art form within the Eclipse Syndicate. Members are sworn to absolute secrecy, knowing that a slip of the tongue can have deadly consequences. The organization's secrets, from intricate heist plans to corrupt alliances, are protected at all costs, with members willing to go to extreme lengths to maintain the syndicate's veiled operations.
Violence
Violence serves as the syndicate's brutal currency, employed to enforce their authority, eliminate rivals, and extract obedience. Members skillfully wield a combination of steam-powered weaponry, concealed gadgets, and their own physical prowess to maintain control and strike fear into the hearts of those who dare to oppose them.
Greed
The lust for wealth and power is the driving force behind the Eclipse Syndicate's criminal enterprises. Members are constantly seeking new avenues for profit, exploiting the chaotic underbelly of their steam-punk society through elaborate schemes, smuggling operations, and black-market ventures. The syndicate's insatiable greed fuels their relentless pursuit of prosperity.
Power
Power is the ultimate currency within the Eclipse Syndicate, symbolizing control over territories, resources, and the criminal underworld itself. Members strive to climb the ranks, willing to eliminate rivals and seize opportunities that elevate their status. Manipulating political factions, orchestrating industrial sabotage, and pulling the strings of influence become their path to dominance.
Fear
Fear is a weapon masterfully wielded by the Eclipse Syndicate, instilling terror in those who cross their path. Their reputation for ruthless violence and unwavering resolve ensures compliance from rivals, informants, and those unfortunate enough to find themselves in their crosshairs. The chilling whispers of the syndicate's dark deeds echo through the steam-punk shadows, keeping potential threats at bay.

Criminal Enterprises

The Eclipse Syndicate, a clandestine criminal organization predating the 2107 unification of the Aurans, exploited the vulnerabilities of fragmented Auran societies through various illicit activities. Thriving on societal fragmentation, this formidable syndicate contributed to lawlessness and corruption. However, their reign of criminal endeavors concluded with the establishment of a unified world government that aimed to eradicate such activities and restore order and justice to Auran society.

Smuggling and Black Market Operations
The Eclipse Syndicate orchestrated large-scale smuggling operations, trafficking contraband goods, illegal substances, and prohibited technology across borders. They created a thriving black market where scarce or restricted items could be obtained through illicit means.
Information and Data Espionage
The syndicate had a network of skilled hackers and spies who engaged in information and data espionage. They stole valuable corporate, governmental, and personal information to be sold or used for their own gain, exploiting the vulnerabilities of both individuals and organizations.
Organized Financial Crimes
The Eclipse Syndicate had a firm grip on organized financial crimes, such as money laundering, embezzlement, and fraudulent schemes. They manipulated financial systems, infiltrated legitimate businesses, and siphoned off substantial amounts of wealth for their own benefit.
Contract Killings and Assassinations
The syndicate maintained a network of professional assassins and contract killers, carrying out targeted executions on behalf of their clients. These covert operations were carefully planned and executed to eliminate obstacles or rivals standing in the way of their objectives.
Extortion and Protection Racketeering
The Eclipse Syndicate engaged in extortion, using intimidation and violence to extract protection money from businesses and individuals. They provided "protection" in exchange for regular payments, exploiting fear and vulnerability to maintain control.
Illegal Cyber Activities
The syndicate had skilled cybercriminals proficient in hacking, identity theft, and cyber-attacks. They targeted individuals, corporations, and even government entities, causing disruptions, stealing sensitive information, and holding data for ransom.
Human Trafficking
The Eclipse Syndicate participated in the abhorrent practice of human trafficking, exploiting individuals for forced labor, prostitution, and other forms of servitude. They operated covert networks that transported and traded human lives for profit.
Contracted Sabotage and Espionage
The syndicate offered their services for contracted sabotage and espionage, leveraging their expertise in covert operations to infiltrate organizations, disrupt operations, or acquire sensitive information to gain an advantage.

History

The Eclipse Syndicate emerged during the industrial revolution on Aurorion, although it took until the mid-20th century for the organization to truly consolidate its power. This period marked the heyday of organized crime on the planet, as the syndicate rapidly expanded its influence and operations. Over the course of the next century, the Eclipse Syndicate steadily rose to become a formidable force, akin to the influential East India Tea Company of Earth in the 9th century. By the year 2013, the syndicate had gained control over a wide array of major criminal activities on the planet, solidifying their dominance. Not only did they hold sway over illicit operations, but they also exerted significant influence over global markets. The syndicate engaged in complex deals and counter-deals with governments, amassing vast amounts of wealth and power in their relentless pursuit of control and supremacy. The Eclipse Syndicate's reach and impact on Aurorion's society were far-reaching, permeating various sectors and significantly shaping the planet's history.

During the period leading up to the establishment of the world government in 2107, the people of Aurorion waged a relentless war against the Eclipse Syndicate, reclaiming control and turning the tables on the criminal organization. The purge of the criminal element from society was marked by unprecedented brutality, surpassing even the darkest chapters of human history. The streets ran red with blood as the conflict reached its climax. In local culture, this transformative event is euphemistically referred to as "The Dawn of the New Era." Though the term may suggest a fresh beginning, it serves as a stark reminder of the violent end to the war, where corruption was surgically excised from society, paving the way for the emergence of a new and more just social order.