Factions

Within Saltmarsh, three factions are engaged in a fierce struggle for control and power, with two of them openly known and the third operating clandestinely. All three factions are willing to employ any means necessary to advance their agendas, including seeking the party's favor to win their support. The factions will task the party with missions, assignments, and various undertakings to aid their cause in gaining control. However, if the party becomes an obstacle or the factions perceive them as a hindrance, they will actively work to impede, harm, or even eliminate the party.

The first two overt factions are the Traditionalist and the Loyalists . Both factions vie for dominance in Saltmarsh and actively compete for the party's allegiance. The Traditionalists, as previously described, advocate for the preservation of the town's original ways and prioritize the fishing trade, while the Loyalists align themselves closely with the crown and its ambitions.

Operating covertly and manipulating both the Traditionalist and Loyalists , the Scarlet Brotherhood is a nefarious organization striving to seize control over Saltmarsh. They exert their influence on any available parties, irrespective of faction affiliation, in their relentless pursuit of power.

Two other factions, the Smugglers & Sea Princes , operate independently and currently secretly align themselves with the Traditionalists, as they see them as the lesser of two evils. Overall, they do not care who runs Saltmarsh, as long as they are able to operate.

In this complex political landscape, the party must navigate carefully, as their actions and choices will have consequences. The factions' true intentions and hidden agendas make it crucial for the party to remain vigilant and discern the faction's motivations before pledging their support.