Secret Syndicate Settlement

A secret syndicate settlement is governed from the shadows by an unofficial or criminal organisation. The visible ruler may be genuine, compromised or entirely a puppet; real power sits with the network controlling money, information and intimidation.

Legacy Settlement Rules

Under the legacy Pathfinder settlement rules, Secret Syndicate increases Corruption, Economy and Crime by 2, while decreasing Law by 6.

How Power Works

• Officials may enforce syndicate decisions without admitting who gave the order.
• Merchants can prosper if they cooperate and suffer sudden problems if they do not.
• Witnesses disappear, evidence is misplaced and inconvenient investigations stall.

Using It in Play

Adventurers should discover the syndicate gradually through patterns rather than a single obvious villain. A guard captain, dockmaster and moneylender may appear unrelated until the same symbol, courier or payment trail links them.

The syndicate can also provide jobs, protection and information, making cooperation tempting even when its rule is corrupt.

Sources & Licensing

Section 15: Copyright Notice — Pathfinder RPG GameMastery Guide. Pathfinder RPG GameMastery Guide © 2010, Paizo Publishing, LLC.