The Syndicate, also known as the Dimmers, is active in Ulmira’s Step, where they have established a noticeable presence among the locals. Members are identifiable by a distinct emblem, exemplified by Borek, who wears a heavy two-finger ring displaying the symbol. The Syndicate engages in trade and information exchange, as illustrated when Borek offered knowledge about the locations of missing limbs in return for Askavir eggs. Their influence in Ulmira’s Step is significant, as they operate openly within the community, though their reputation is mixed due to their involvement in illicit activities such as coercive recruitment and the use of magical artifacts.
Upon his arrival in Ulmira’s Step, Heyou, a member of The Enduring Lesser Lights, recognized Syndicate operators at a back table. He approached them deferentially, revealing his background from Drosven’s Gate, where a calamity had extinguished the local pyre. Borek welcomed him and suggested a mutual benefit deal. Recently, Borek confronted a local named Draz regarding his involvement with a group that employed explosives, revealing a binding rune on Draz's arm that indicated a coercive bond. Borek offered Draz a translucent purple gem and a recruitment opportunity into the Syndicate, suggesting that allies could counteract the malign influence on him. Draz declined the offer, which Borek framed as a means to gain strength against external pressures.
The Syndicate’s public visibility contrasts sharply with the caution displayed by local residents toward outsiders, highlighting their bold operations and the broader implications of regional challenges. Borek's manipulative attempts included implications that other party members, notably Sylvie, were involved in dark magic, as he referred to her as a witch. The Syndicate leverage fear and uncertainty to sway individuals to their side, demonstrated by Borek's coercive tactics in conversation. The encounter concluded with the party escaping from Borek's building with valuable items, while the threat of the Syndicate remained imminent.