Eldritch Undermarket

The Eldritch Undermarket, tucked away beneath the bustling streets of downtown Chicago, is an extraordinary marketplace where the supernatural community thrives. It has overcome a tumultuous past, shaped by historical events, organized crime influence, and struggles for acceptance, emerging as a symbol of resilience and unity. Governed by the Master Vampire of Chicago, the Undermarket embraces a diverse range of supernatural beings, offering both legitimate and illicit goods and services. Its hidden confines are a sanctuary of inclusivity, where vendors trade, socialize, and forge connections while abiding by the market's laws and regulations. As the Undermarket adapts to the changing times and needs of the community, it remains a vibrant hub, where cultures intertwine, knowledge is exchanged, and shared existence is celebrated.

Appearance

The Eldritch Undermarket not only pays tribute to the architectural styles of the early 1900s and the distinctive charm of the 1930s and 1960s but also incorporates elements of nostalgia from the 1980s and 1990s. Amidst the grand archways and ornate pillars, flashes of neon lights and vibrant colors reminiscent of the '80s and '90s era come alive.

As visitors stroll through the market's corridors, they are greeted by neon signs illuminating the pathways, casting a vivid glow on the surroundings. The hues of electric blues, neon pinks, and bright purples blend harmoniously with the existing Art Deco motifs, infusing the space with an updated retro vibe. Graffiti art inspired by the street culture of the '80s and '90s adorns select areas, adding a touch of urban artistry to the market's visual landscape.

While some of the psychedelic patterns of the 1960s remain, they are joined by a fusion of geometric designs and bold, contrasting colors popularized in the '80s and '90s. Splashes of vibrant oranges, lime greens, and vibrant yellows intermingle with the existing palette, creating an energetic and nostalgic atmosphere.

The massive mural painted into the ceiling is no exception to the infusion of '80s and '90s nostalgia. Alongside depictions of the supernatural community's historical moments, iconic figures, and significant events, glimpses of '80s pop culture references and '90s symbols intertwine. It pays homage to the cultural icons, music, and art movements that shaped those decades, offering a vibrant visual journey that resonates with both the past and the present.

The Eldritch Undermarket becomes a captivating blend of eras, drawing inspiration from the charm of the early 20th century, the glamour of the 1930s, the counterculture of the 1960s, and the electrifying nostalgia of the '80s and '90s. This unique amalgamation creates an atmosphere that honors the history of the supernatural community while embracing the ever-evolving spirit of the market.

Sunlight

In a remarkable display of ingenuity, the Eldritch Undermarket features a groundbreaking lighting system that harnesses the power of sunlight, ingeniously brought from the surface using a concept inspired by real-world locations such as Rjukan, Norway, and The Lowline in New York City. This innovative lighting solution was implemented during the Postwar Era renovations, revolutionizing the ambiance and visual experience within the market's underground expanse.

Taking cues from Rjukan, where giant mirrors redirect sunlight into the town's square, and The Lowline, which utilizes cutting-edge solar technology to illuminate an underground park, the Undermarket adapted this concept to suit its unique needs. The market's architectural design incorporates a network of strategically positioned mirrors, carefully angled and positioned to capture sunlight from above ground.

As sunlight streams down through the mirrors, it dances across the market's corridors, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. The natural illumination not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a touch of enchantment to the space. The beams of sunlight illuminate the vibrant colors, accentuate the intricate details of the architecture, and bring to life the captivating artwork and murals that adorn the market's walls.

This innovative lighting system has become an integral part of the Undermarket's identity, infusing the space with a warm and inviting atmosphere. It enhances the overall sensory experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the nuances of the market's diverse offerings in a natural and organic light. As sunlight filters through the mirrors, it serves as a reminder of the interplay between the supernatural world and the world above ground, bridging the gap between the two realms and fostering a sense of connection.

Location

The Eldritch Undermarket is not just a single location, but rather a sprawling network of interconnected spaces that stretch beneath the heart of downtown Chicago. This labyrinthine marketplace is ingeniously woven into the city's infrastructure, making use of the extensive rapid transit system that underpins the city.

The Undermarket's main hub is located deep beneath the central business district, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city above. This hub is a vast, cavernous space filled with stalls and shops selling all manner of supernatural goods and services. The air is thick with the scent of exotic herbs and the murmur of hushed negotiations, while the flicker of magical lights casts an otherworldly glow over the scene.

Radiating out from this central hub are a series of tunnels and passageways that connect to various other locations throughout the city. These tunnels follow the lines of the rapid transit system, allowing for easy access to different parts of the Undermarket from various points in the city. Each of these satellite locations has its own unique character and offerings, reflecting the diversity of the city's supernatural community.

Some of these locations are tucked away beneath the city's parks, while others are hidden beneath historic buildings or nestled within the city's industrial districts. Each location is protected by powerful magical wards and enchantments, ensuring that they remain hidden from the prying eyes of the mundane world.

Despite its sprawling nature, the Undermarket is expertly organized and easy to navigate, with clear signage and magical guides to assist newcomers. The market operates on a 24-hour cycle, with different sections of the market coming alive at different times of the day and night to cater to the varied schedules of the city's supernatural inhabitants.

Access

The Eldritch Undermarket, a bustling hub for the supernatural community, employs a variety of methods to ensure secure and controlled access while maintaining its secrecy from the mundane world. One of the primary methods of entry is through the use of magical passwords or phrases, known only to members of the supernatural community. These phrases, when spoken or thought near certain enchanted objects or locations, trigger the opening of a portal or doorway to the Undermarket. For those without innate magical abilities or knowledge of the passwords, single-use enchanted objects serve as temporary keys. These objects, ordinary in appearance but imbued with magic, open a passage to the Undermarket when activated in the right location.

Certain individuals can access the Undermarket only when accompanied by a current member or trusted individual, who is then responsible for their guest's actions during their visit. Hidden physical entrances are also scattered throughout the city's subway system, disguised as everyday features of the city landscape. Finally, human servants to powerful supernatural beings are often marked with magical tattoos or brands that allow them to access the Undermarket. These marks glow or change in some way when near an entrance, signaling the way in. These methods of access ensure that those who enter the Undermarket are accountable for their actions within it, maintaining the market's order and secrecy.

Magical Passwords or Phrases

One of the primary methods of entry is through the use of magical passwords or phrases. These are known only to members of the supernatural community and must be spoken aloud, whispered, or even thought in the presence of certain enchanted objects or locations. This triggers the opening of a portal or doorway to the Undermarket.

Enchanted Objects

For those without innate magical abilities or knowledge of the passwords, single-use enchanted objects serve as temporary keys to the Undermarket. These objects, which could be anything from a seemingly ordinary coin to a pendant, are imbued with magic. When activated in the right location, these objects open a passage to the Undermarket. These are typically used by non-supernatural individuals who have been granted temporary access to the market.

Guided Entry

Some individuals can access the Undermarket only when accompanied by a current member or trusted individual. This could involve being physically led through a hidden entrance or being guided through a magical portal. The guide is responsible for their guest's actions during their visit, ensuring that the guest respects the rules and customs of the Undermarket.

Hidden Physical Entrances

Some entrances to the Undermarket are hidden in plain sight within the city's subway system. These entrances are disguised as everyday features of the city landscape, such as a particular subway door that opens to the Undermarket instead of the usual platform when the correct conditions are met.

Tattoos or Brands

Human servants to powerful supernatural beings are often marked with magical tattoos or brands that allow them to access the Undermarket. These marks glow or change in some way when near an entrance, signaling the way in. This method ensures that these servants can carry out tasks for their supernatural masters within the Undermarket.

Rules and Regulations

The laws of the Undermarket, established and enforced under the authority of the Master Vampire, serve to maintain order, uphold the market's neutrality, and ensure the safety and well-being of all members of the supernatural community. These laws encompass licensing and registration requirements, prohibition of certain items, separation of legitimate and illicit activities, respect for all patrons, peaceful dispute resolution, safety measures for products and services, privacy and secrecy, compliance with supernatural laws, and the absolute prohibition of violence. By adhering to these laws, the Undermarket continues to thrive as a sanctuary, fostering a sense of acceptance, unity, and cooperation among its diverse supernatural inhabitants.

Authority of the Master Vampire

The Master Vampire of the city of Chicago is the ultimate authority within the Undermarket. All rules, regulations, and decisions are made under their oversight. Disputes or issues that cannot be resolved otherwise are brought before the Master Vampire for final judgment.

Licensing and Registration

All vendors operating within the Undermarket must be properly licensed and registered under the authority of the Master Vampire. This includes both legitimate businesses and those operating within the black market. Vendors must display their license at all times.

Prohibited Items

Certain items are strictly prohibited from being sold within the Undermarket. These include items that pose a significant risk to the safety or wellbeing of the community, such as cursed artifacts, dangerous potions, or illegal magical substances. The list of prohibited items is determined by the Master Vampire.

Separation of Legitimate and Illicit Activities

Legitimate stalls and businesses must maintain a clear separation from the seedier areas of the market. This includes maintaining a physical distance from black market vendors and refraining from participating in or promoting illicit activities.

Respect for All Patrons

All vendors and patrons of the Undermarket are expected to treat each other with respect, regardless of their supernatural status or affiliation. Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

Dispute Resolution

Any disputes between vendors, or between vendors and patrons, should be resolved peacefully and respectfully. If necessary, disputes can be brought before the Master Vampire or a designated representative for resolution.

Safety Measures

All vendors are responsible for ensuring the safety of their products and services. This includes properly labeling items, providing accurate descriptions, and warning patrons of any potential risks or side effects.

Privacy and Secrecy

All vendors and patrons are expected to maintain the secrecy of the Undermarket. This includes refraining from revealing its location or methods of access to non-members and respecting the privacy of other patrons.

Compliance with Laws

While the Undermarket operates outside of mundane law, vendors and patrons are still expected to comply with the laws and regulations of the supernatural community. This includes respecting the rights and autonomy of all supernatural beings.

Prohibition of Violence

Violence of any kind is strictly prohibited within the Undermarket. The market is considered neutral ground, and any act of violence will result in swift reprisal. Patrons and vendors must find peaceful resolutions to conflicts and grievances.

History

The Undermarket was conceived in 1909 by Edward H. Bennett, a city planner who envisioned a marketplace for the city's supernatural community. Bennett's vision was realized in 1913, when construction began on the Undermarket as part of the broader Plan of Chicago. The market was built directly into the city's infrastructure, with entrances and supply lines hidden within the city's rail and transit lines.

The Great Depression brought economic hardship to the Undermarket, but the involvement of organized crime figures like Anton Cermak, Edward J. Kelly, and Paul "The Waiter" Ricca kept the market afloat. While their actions preserved the Undermarket, they also led to an increase in illicit activities and a tarnishing of the market's reputation.

The Postwar era brought about a shift in the Undermarket's operations. The economic boom of the era reduced the market's reliance on criminal syndicates, and a concerted effort to combat organized crime began to reshape the city's political landscape. However, the market's operations were disrupted by a riot that exposed deep-seated prejudices and inequalities within the supernatural community.

The Civil Rights Movement of the mid-1950s to late 1960s had a profound impact on the Undermarket. The movement led to an increase in diversity among the market's vendors and patrons, but it also brought about divisions within the supernatural community. A riot within the Undermarket brought these tensions to a head, leading to significant reform within the market.

In the aftermath of the riot, the supernatural community within the Undermarket came together to forge a new culture of acceptance. Drawing on the concept of community resilience, they recognized their shared struggle and resistance and began to work towards a more inclusive and equitable market. This new culture catered to all supernatural creatures, regardless of their status or standing, and balanced both legitimate and illicit activities.

The culture that emerged from this period of change and upheaval remains largely the same to this day. The Undermarket is a place where all supernatural beings can find acceptance and support, regardless of their status or standing. It is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the supernatural community, a place that has weathered economic hardship, societal change, and internal conflict to become a vital resource for all supernatural beings in the city of Chicago.

Inception

In the bustling streets of New York City, Edward H. Bennett first saw the need for a marketplace of supernatural supplies. As he navigated the city's diverse neighborhoods, he encountered a myriad of cultures and traditions, many of which held beliefs in the supernatural and practiced arcane arts. He saw people struggling to find the necessary tools and ingredients for their rituals and protections, and he realized that a centralized marketplace could provide a solution.

Bennett's vision for this marketplace was shaped by his own experiences with the arcane. Born in Bristol, England, he had been exposed to the country's rich folklore and mystical traditions from a young age. Later, when he moved to San Francisco with his family, he encountered a different kind of mysticism, influenced by the city's diverse population and its proximity to the mysterious and mystical Pacific Ocean. These experiences sparked his interest in the arcane and led him to study the mystical arts alongside his architectural education.

When Bennett was invited to Chicago by Daniel H. Burnham, he saw an opportunity to make his vision a reality. As he worked on the Plan of Chicago, he secretly designed the Eldritch Undermarket, a hidden part of the city's infrastructure where practitioners of the arcane could trade in magical artifacts and services. He envisioned it as a legitimate marketplace, a place where the supernatural was recognized and respected, and where people could find the tools they needed to protect themselves and their communities. Thus, the Eldritch Undermarket was born.

Building

The Eldritch Undermarket, a hidden gem of the arcane world, was ingeniously integrated into the infrastructure of Chicago's transit lines. The construction of the market was a feat of both architectural and magical prowess, with supply lines and entrances built directly into the city's elevated railroads.

The Chicago and South Side Rapid Transit Railroad, the Lake Street Elevated Railroad, the Metropolitan West Side Elevated Railroad, and the Northwestern Elevated Railroad all served as arteries for the Eldritch Undermarket. Hidden access points were built into the stations, maintenance tunnels, and even the tracks themselves, allowing for the discreet movement of goods and people into the market. These access points were concealed by powerful magical circles and runes, etched directly into the architecture of the stations and tunnels. These symbols were not just decorative; they were functional, serving as keys to the hidden doors and passageways that led to the Undermarket. Only those who knew the right spells or possessed the right talismans could see and activate these symbols, ensuring that the market remained hidden from the uninitiated.

The supply lines for the market were similarly concealed. Goods were transported in ordinary-looking train cars, hidden in plain sight amidst the everyday traffic of the city. Inside these cars, however, magical wards and illusions were used to conceal the true nature of the cargo. This allowed for the safe and discreet transportation of even the most dangerous or sensitive magical items.

The construction of the Eldritch Undermarket was a monumental task, requiring the coordination of architects, engineers, and mages. But the result was a marketplace unlike any other, a place where the supernatural could thrive amidst the hustle and bustle of the Windy City.

Transformation Under Prohibition

As the Prohibition era dawned in the 1920s, the Eldritch Undermarket began to change. The nationwide ban on the sale, production, and transportation of alcohol led to the rise of organized crime, and the supernatural world was not immune to these influences. The Master Vampire of the city, seeing an opportunity, began to exert his influence over the market. While the Undermarket continued to serve as a place for legitimate trade, a darker strain began to emerge. The Master Vampire funded additional construction, expanding the market and adding new, hidden sections where illegal activities could take place. These included the smuggling of magical artifacts, the brewing of illicit potions, and the trading of forbidden spells.

Edward H. Bennett, the architect and visionary behind the Eldritch Undermarket, was deeply troubled by these developments. He had envisioned the market as a place of safety and legitimacy, a place where the supernatural community could come together and support each other. The corruption of his vision was a bitter pill to swallow. Despite his disappointment, Bennett was a pragmatist. He understood that the Undermarket was a living, evolving entity, shaped by the forces of history and society. He also recognized the power and influence of the Master Vampire, and knew that direct confrontation would be futile.

Instead, Bennett chose to work within the system. He continued to oversee the construction of the Undermarket, ensuring that the original sections remained a place for legitimate trade. He also used his architectural skills to design safeguards into the new sections, creating hidden escape routes and emergency measures that could be used in case of danger. Bennett also used his influence to advocate for the rights and safety of the market's users. He worked with the city's supernatural leaders, including the Master Vampire, to establish rules and regulations that would prevent exploitation and maintain a degree of order within the market.

The Great Depression and Organized Crime

The Great Depression brought about unprecedented economic hardship, and the Eldritch Undermarket was not immune to its effects. As the economy crumbled, so too did the financial foundations of the market. Many vendors and suppliers who had once thrived found themselves unable to continue their operations, pushing the market to the brink of closure. However, the involvement of organized crime, spearheaded by Anton Cermak, Edward J. Kelly, and Paul "The Waiter" Ricca, provided a lifeline. They used their connections and resources to inject much-needed capital into the Undermarket, allowing vendors to restock their wares and continue their operations.

While their motivations were far from altruistic, their actions had the effect of preserving the Undermarket during a time of crisis. The market became more entwined with the criminal underworld, but it also remained a vital resource for the city's supernatural community. Without the involvement of organized crime, the Eldritch Undermarket would likely have succumbed to the economic horrors of the Great Depression. Instead, it survived and adapted, continuing to serve as a hub of supernatural activity amidst the turmoil of the times.

However, the lifeline provided by organized crime had a darker side. As the economic crisis deepened, criminal activities like bootlegging, bank robbing, loan-sharking, and even murder became increasingly prevalent. The involvement of Cermak, Kelly, and Ricca in the Eldritch Undermarket was not just about preserving a vital resource for the city's supernatural community, but also about exploiting the market for their own gain.

With the end of Prohibition in 1933, many gangsters were forced to fall back on the old standbys of gambling and prostitution, as well as new opportunities in loan-sharking, labor racketeering, and drug trafficking. The Eldritch Undermarket, with its hidden location and magical protections, became an ideal hub for these illicit activities. Under the guise of preserving the market, Cermak, Kelly, and Ricca significantly expanded its black market capabilities.

This darker side of the Undermarket was not without its consequences. The market became a hotspot for violent crimes and turf wars between rival gangs. The magical protections that once served to keep the market hidden were now used to shield criminals from the law. The market's reputation as a place of safety and legitimacy was tarnished, replaced by a reputation for lawlessness and corruption.

Edward H. Bennett, the original visionary behind the Undermarket, was pushed out of the project and could only watch as his vision was corrupted. The market that he had built to support the city's supernatural community was now a tool for organized crime. The Eldritch Undermarket had survived the Great Depression, but at a great cost.

Postwar Era and the Criminal Legacy

The Postwar era brought about a significant shift in the culture and governance of Chicago, which had a profound impact on the Eldritch Undermarket. The economic boom of the era provided much-needed capital, reducing the Undermarket's reliance on criminal syndicates. At the same time, a concerted effort to combat organized crime began to reshape the city's political landscape.

In 1950, the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Crime, chaired by Senator Estes Kefauver, held a series of televised hearings on organized crime. The Kefauver Committee hearings exposed the extent of organized crime's infiltration of American society, including the Undermarket, and helped to raise public awareness of the problem.

The election of Richard J. Daley as Mayor in 1955 marked a turning point in the city's fight against organized crime. Daley was a reform-minded politician determined to clean up the city's image. He appointed tough prosecutors and police chiefs, including Otto Kerner, the Cook County State's Attorney known for his willingness to go after organized crime figures. Daley's administration also saw the development of new law enforcement techniques, including wiretapping, electronic surveillance, and undercover operations. The Master Vampire of Chicago, who had largely controlled the Undermarket during the Great Depression and Prohibition, had to adapt to these changes. The increased scrutiny and law enforcement pressure forced a shift in the Undermarket's operations. While the black market activities continued, there was a renewed emphasis on the market's legitimate businesses.

Eliot Ness, the federal agent who led the Untouchables, and John D. Crilly, the reform-minded Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department, were instrumental in this shift. Their efforts to combat organized crime, along with the work of other law enforcement officials, created an environment in which the Undermarket could begin to regain its legitimacy. Even Sam Giancana, a powerful mobster who controlled much of the gambling and racketeering in Chicago, had to tread carefully. His close association with Mayor Daley and his suspected involvement in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy brought increased scrutiny and pressure.

The Postwar era was a time of change and challenge for the Eldritch Undermarket. But it was also a time of opportunity. The efforts to combat organized crime, coupled with the economic boom, allowed the Undermarket to evolve and adapt, reclaiming some of its original vision as a place of legitimate trade for the city's supernatural community.

The Civil Rights Movement and the Effect on the Undermarket

The Civil Rights Movement of the mid-1950s to late 1960s brought about significant changes within the Eldritch Undermarket. As societal attitudes towards race began to shift, the Undermarket saw an increase in diversity among its vendors and patrons. Supernatural beings from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds felt empowered to participate in the market, leading to a broader range of goods and services being offered.

However, this increased diversity also brought about divisions within the supernatural community. These divisions mirrored the broader societal attitudes about race. Vampires and other very old supernatural creatures, who had long dominated the Undermarket, resisted these changes. They wanted the Undermarket to remain a place for white, supernatural creatures that could pass for human. Tensions came to a head when a riot broke out within the Undermarket. Supernatural creatures like shape-shifters and fae worked to end the riot and protect people, while vampires fought for racial and supernatural purity. The riot was a turning point for the Undermarket, exposing the deep-seated prejudices and inequalities within the supernatural community.

In the aftermath of the riot, the Undermarket underwent significant reform. Leaders within the market took steps to ensure that all supernatural beings, regardless of race or ethnicity, were treated fairly and had equal opportunities. The rules and regulations of the market were revised, and efforts were made to foster a more inclusive culture. At the same time, the riot and the broader Civil Rights Movement led to increased scrutiny and law enforcement pressure on the Undermarket. This pressure, combined with the realization that the market could not continue to operate as it had, led to a grudging acceptance of change among even the most resistant members of the supernatural community.

Vampires, despite their initial resistance, came to see the profitability of including all supernatural beings in the Undermarket. Shape-shifters like werewolves, who had been instrumental in ending the riot, recognized the need for a black market of supernatural goods. While tensions and disagreements remained, the Undermarket began to evolve into a place that reflected the diversity and complexity of the supernatural community as a whole.

Solidifying a New Culture

In the aftermath of the riot and the broader societal changes brought about by the Civil Rights Movement, the supernatural community within the Eldritch Undermarket began to come together in new and unexpected ways. Drawing on the concept of community resilience, they recognized that they had a shared interest in ensuring the survival and prosperity of the Undermarket.

The supernatural community was already at a disadvantage, marginalized and misunderstood by the broader society. They saw many parallels between their own plight and that of African-American people during the Civil Rights Movement. This shared sense of struggle and resistance served as a powerful unifying force. Inspired by the original vision for the Undermarket, the supernatural community began to forge a new culture of acceptance. They recognized that the Undermarket was not just a place for those who fit into legal and legitimate purposes, but also for those who did not. The market was a vital resource for all supernatural creatures, regardless of their status or standing.

This new culture was not without its challenges. There were still deep-seated prejudices and inequalities to overcome, and the truce between the different factions within the supernatural community was often uneasy. But the community was committed to making it work. They understood that their survival and prosperity depended on their ability to come together and support each other.

In the post-Civil Rights era, the Eldritch Undermarket began to strike a balance between its legitimate and illicit activities. While it continued to serve as a hub for the black market of supernatural goods, it also became a place where all supernatural creatures could find acceptance and support. The market was no longer just a place of trade, but also a community, a place where supernatural beings of all kinds could come together and forge a shared identity.

The Undermarket had survived the Great Depression, Prohibition, and the Civil Rights Movement. Each of these periods had brought challenges and changes, but they had also brought opportunities for growth and adaptation. As the supernatural community looked to the future, they did so with a sense of hope and determination. They had come a long way, but they knew that their journey was far from over.