There is a Union branch of La Cage. The original intent was trampled into the ground and while the majority of common folks do not agree with the current status, they are too weak to do something about it. The group at the core of THE Local Union Branch, being nicknamed "The Gang" by some, via Union exerts a distinct form of authority over the tenement, primarily operating as a protection racket and smuggling enterprise. Initially, joining the Union was "strongly recommended" through persuasive arguments, often backed by threats and actual violence. Despite a facade of affluence and influence, the group's true nature has become increasingly apparent over time. A few years ago the attempts to seek external assistance were thwarted - the Gang demonstrated connections with unions, bribed the RCM, and presented a composed facade to the Coalition. Two years ago, there was a war over La Cage with Puta Madre. Today, The Gang faces simultaneous challenges on multiple fronts, marking a tumultuous period in its history.
Characters
Presentation: Themes: crime, oppression, extortion, blackmail, power
Elian is the boss. As the leader of the local union branch, they carry themselves around the block as if they own everything, which is not so far from reality; they are wealthy, and they flaunt it. More than the power, Elian loves the respect they get.
Elian also carefully orchestrates public displays of charity, ensuring every resident witnesses these rare acts.
In their personal life, Elian navigates a complex, not-so-healthy relationship with a younger individual who worships them. Providing financial assistance for them comes with a condition – absolute secrecy. Elian's life is a delicate balance between maintaining influence, concealing affiliations, and managing intimate connections in the shadows. (Like the whole gang, Elian will leave the game one way or another at end of chapter 1)
Factions:
The Second Club
,
Core of the Local Union Branch / The Gang (1st half)
Presentation: Themes: bullying, revenge, acceptance
Fifteen years ago, they used to be the odd kid. The one picked on by both youth clubs, despised by their own family. Then, in one spectacular moment, they were humiliated and disfigured - and because of all the tar and feathers, they got the nickname Swan. They retreated to live with the outcasts in the Sewers. When they came back, they came back with the new Union Office leadership. And with their imposing figure, quick instincts and sheer malice, they have started to take their revenge. Slowly, methodically. The final reckoning is coming. (Like the whole gang, Swan will leave the game one way or another at the end of chapter 1)
Factions:
The Union
,
Bearded Vulture Club
,
Core of the Local Union Branch / The Gang (1st half)
Presentation: Themes: violence, intrigue, exploitation, camaraderie
Just like their name, Smiley's entire origin story remains a mystery. All that is known or important to them is that they were one of the first settlers in the hospital, and they stayed there long enough to become proficient in various methods of inflicting harm. Their path crossed with Elian's parent, with whom they shared a close friendship.
Then, Elian expressed their desire to become the new leader of the Union. In an unexpected twist, Smiley swiftly switched loyalties, becoming Elian's most loyal supporter. This sudden allegiance continues to concern Elian to this day. Despite the uncertainty, Smiley often sees Elian as a surrogate child, offering advice and attempting to provide comfort. Ultimately, Smiley wants to provide comfort for everyone - everyone who toes the party line, that is. If they do not cooperate, well. Smiley always has a place to store some bodies.
Factions:
Petanque Club
,
The Regulars
,
Core of the Local Union Branch / The Gang (1st half)
Presentation: Themes: violence, unreliable memory, family reconciliation, expression through art
Donnie is the classic example of a black sheep of one of the slightly better-off families in La Cage. Since they were younger, they have been fascinated with the arts. When they grew up, this led them down a path that aligned with the wrong crowd, causing their family to disown them. As a result, Donnie found themselves on the streets, surviving through a blend of drugs and artistic pursuits, a combination that erased significant chunks of their memory and led them to fabricate new stories about their past and present.
Donnie clings to the hope of creating a meaningful piece of art that will somehow earn the approval of their estranged parents. Their narrative unfolds as a blend of resilience, artistic expression, and a quest for family reconciliation. Or, as most people see it, their narrative is full of fucking rats. Donnie is fascinated by them, putting them everywhere.
Factions:
Gamblers Den
,
The Regulars
,
Core of the Local Union Branch / The Gang (1st half)
Presentation: Themes: violence, childhood fantasy, sense of belonging
Dali Riker, also known as *El Conquistador,* is the youngest recruit to the gang.
Originating from a poor family in an impoverished neighbourhood, Dali had access to illustrated comic books about gangs and cowboys. These books, featuring hardworking individuals protecting their community, inspired Dali to follow in their footsteps by establishing a business selling stolen cigarettes.
Within the Union, Dali takes on various roles, running errands, strongarming people, collecting extortion money, and engaging in physical altercations. Embracing the fantasy of being a true free spirit, they adopted the nickname *El Conquistador.*
Factions:
Fight Club
,
Core of the Local Union Branch / The Gang (1st half)
