The world of Veiled Virtues is not unlike our own, yet at the same time it is something more. It is like a high-intensity reflection of here and now, our world as seen through the lens of an action-film director.
Within the world the Mafia's hold incredible influence over our politicians. Japanese Yakuza and Chinese Tongs battle for control of vice within shadowed alleys. Powerful corporations make shady deals with people of questionable morals all in the name of profit. The police seem competent enough to keep things from boiling over, yet never seem to make any progress in the overall picture.
Violence, gambling, drugs, prostitution. These things are all around, just below the surface of polite society. Gun battles, high-speed chases, and back street brawls all await those that go looking for them, and sometimes those that don't.
All sorts of people inhabit this world, from pimps and pushers, Mafia thugs and gang-bangers, corrupt politicians and police on the take, mercenaries and assassins, and the power-brokers that bring them all together. There are also people travelling the world that are more than they seem. People that can persevere against impossible odds, that show aptitudes and abilities beyond and unknown to the common man. People like the player characters.
Whether a world renowned super-hacker, a former commando that attacks from ambush and defeats entire units, a big city brawler who just won't go down in an underground street fight, or a modern day ninja as deadly with a blade as with a pistol, all exist, and more, within the seedy underbelly of the world.
The one common thread between the player characters is morality. They may be merciless vigilantes or fearless protectors of the downtrodden. Yet they all believe in a greater good, and the need to act to help those around them; sometimes, for a price.
In Veiled Virtues, not even salvation is free.