Ghost Dogs
Overview
Nestled within the sleepy streets of Algetordi and casting long shadows across the Poquin Coast, thrives a clandestine organization known as the Ghost Dogs. Led by the formidable ágcha ˈríbací, a matriarch whose name echoes the Hezdel tongue with the meaning of "fierce warrior," this criminal syndicate is more than a mere collection of outlaws; it is a mirror reflecting the complex, game-infused soul of Delhiza.
by midjourney
Above: ágcha ˈríbací, matriarch of the Ghost Dog clan
Roots and Culture
Originating from the central village of Booloo, ˈríbací’s roots lie deep in the traditions of Copolo prefecture, a land that whispers tales of ancient games and gods, though she moved the clan's center to Algetordi, a useful perch from which the Ghost Dogs can monitor comings and goings from the national capital Sonchihilic, a critical seaside hub which connects Delhiza to the wider worlds of Arlok and Rela. Their interests lie not only in material gains but also in the cultural exchanges and political movements these interactions bring forth. They scrutinize each visitor, each cargo, discerning opportunities and threats in the flux of global trade. The Dogs very much embody the unique cultural ethos of Delhiza, where life is seen not just as an existence but as a series of strategic plays, much like the revered game of Succulthagac, the undisputed king of Delhizan games which serves as a blueprint for their operations. This perspective lends a nuanced approach that transcends mere profit. They are not just thieves or smugglers, but view themselves as players in a grand and intricate game, with the stakes being power, influence, and survival. While all members of the Dogs are expected to be capable warriors, cunning is the value they most prize. They are also highly competitive, and while they work alongside partner syndicates such as The Castlemoons of Rela or Iron Ring of Arlok, they are also always looking to outmaneuver them. To this end, stealthy connections with magical groups such as the notorious Red Eyes of Sau-Hezib provide sizeable advantage, though the secret of these ties is jealously guarded to preserve the reputation of the Red Eyes as virtual phantoms.
by midjourney
Above: A Ghost Dog warrior, displaying clan tattoos
The late-afternoon game-time, sacred in Delhizan culture, is when the Ghost Dogs plan, plot, and strategize. Over dice and cards, they weave their schemes, blending seamlessly with law-abiding citizens indulging in a culturally sanctioned pastime.
Just as players navigate the complexities of Succulthagac with tiles of diverse powers and implications, the Ghost Dogs maneuver through the criminal underworld with craft and foresight. They communicate in codes mirrored from the game's tiles, using them as symbols to convey messages and instructions within their ranks. The organization, like the game, is governed by a set of unspoken rules, an understanding as deep as Succulthagac's psychic space of ˈráchüv. Loyalty and intuition bind members, and decisions are often made through mutual, wordless understanding, reflecting their deep connections and respect.
Context and Impact
As a subgroup of the Dog Clan, the Ghost Dogs are part of a much larger familial structure, which does not share their zeal for underworld activities. Generally the Ghost Dogs maintain a respectful distance from law-abiding Dog Clan members - though by virtue of Delhizan cultural norms there is always a presumed ability for members of any clan to call upon others of the same group, so innocent types occasionally find themselves embroiled in dastardly dealings, whether asked to "hold on to something" for a while, or roped more directly in to some dangerous midnight scheme. Legit Dog types more frustratingly find that the shadow the Ghost Dogs cast over their clan darkens their dealings with other clans, and navigating around the related suspicion and mistrust comes at heavy cost, financially and spiritually.
Working partners
The Ghost Dogs and Castlemoons enjoy generally smooth relations in their underworld dealings, though their history has certainly been filled with a few tense moments. Cultural differences account for some of these, but money is the better part of it.
At odds
The Ghost Dogs' cooperation with one of the Council's top rivals, The Castlemoons, in importing forbidden Exiled goods has helped them chart on the latter's radar as an enemy of note.
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