The Harbor Rats
The Harbor Rats are a loose collection of criminal gangs operating in the Dock Ward of SLiberberg. Although their official name is unknown—even to themselves—the moniker "Harbor Rats" has stuck, inspired by their rat-like habits and the prevalence of anthropomorphic rats among their ranks. They thrive in the shadowy, chaotic environment of the docks, preying on sailors, merchants, and anyone unfortunate enough to cross their paths after dark.
Structure
The Harbor Rats lack a formal organizational hierarchy, instead existing as independent gangs that occasionally cooperate for mutual benefit. Despite this fragmentation, several unifying traits and operational tendencies define their activities:
Hideouts: Harbor Rats favor dark, hidden locations such as under-dock spaces, abandoned warehouses, hole-in-the-wall taverns, and derelict ships.
Group Tactics: They often move in small packs of three to six members, using their numbers to intimidate or overpower victims.
Criminal Enterprises: Common activities include:
Pickpocketing: Targeting distracted sailors and dockworkers.
Cargo Theft: Pilfering goods from warehouses and ships.
Smuggling: Facilitating the movement of illicit goods into and out of SLiberberg.
Murder for Hire: Providing hired muscle or assassins for a price.
Gambling Scams: Running rigged dice games and card tables in dockside taverns.
Piracy: Occasionally commandeering ships to expand their operations.
While they are notorious for their criminal exploits, the Harbor Rats are not averse to forming temporary alliances with other factions when mutual interests align.
Public Agenda
During the reign of the Usurper the Harbor Rat Confederacy had at its disposal about 1200 members and 26 ships of various descriptions.
History
Rise Under Murtagh
During the tumultuous reign of Murtagh, the Usurper, the Harbor Rats experienced a brief period of unity. Under the leadership of the so-called Rat King, the various gangs banded together into a confederation known simply as "The Rats." This federation allowed them to consolidate power, expand their influence, and execute large-scale operations with unprecedented coordination.Fall and Fragmentation
With Murtagh’s downfall and King Fredrick’s restoration to the throne, the confederation quickly disintegrated. Without a strong central figure to maintain order, the Harbor Rats splintered back into their individual gangs, returning to the disorganized but persistent criminal presence they had been before.
Location
Controlled Territories
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