The Covenant Council

Diplomacy

For most within the camp, presenting a least the veneer of cooperation and support for the Council is in their best interest. With their school churning out literally hundreds of students every year who are both powerful and loyal, it is risky to get on their bad side.

Covenant Council Characters

• Alignment: Usually lawful and usually neutral
• Suggested Races: Other
• Suggested Classes: Techie, Magus, Gunslinger
• Suggested Archetypes: Darkslinger, Magician, Technomancer
• Suggested Ladders: Occultist, Savant

You might enjoy playing a character who belongs to the Covenant of the Mecha if one or more of the following statements are true:

• You want to play a strategist who thrives on blending arcane mastery with cutting-edge technology.
• Someone drawn to the idea of becoming a living weapon through magic and cybernetics.
• You want to play a person eager to embrace extreme enhancements for power and leadership.
• You want to explore the idea of being willing to sacrifice freedom for ultimate strength and purpose.

Background: Covenant of the Mecha

If your character was born and raised in Dark Syde, you can choose this background instead of those listed in the Ultra Modern Redux rule book.

You were born exhibiting unnatural abilities within a division of the Covenant. You were brought before the apostles and declared beatified. Taken away from your family, you underwent rigorous training and cybernetic experimentation without your consent to fully develop your abilities. Whether or not you had grown to accept their dogma is up to you. You emerged damaged psychologically but powerful in the ways of the dark. They made you this way. You owe them a debt, but you may also wish to destroy them.

• Skill Proficiencies. Detection and Induce
• Languages. One language of your choice.
• Renown 1 and Rank 1 with the Covenant Council

Feature: Position of Power

Due to your status as an elite within the Covenant, others instinctively respect and defer to you. You move through society with unquestioned authority, and most assume your presence is both intentional and necessary. The common people strive to meet your needs and avoid incurring your disfavor, while those in positions of power recognize you as one of their own. When required, you can easily command an audience with influential figures or local leaders.

Suggested Characteristics

Those within the Covenant of the Mecha are molded by an upbringing far removed from ordinary life, where rigorous discipline, elite training, and the fusion of magic with cybernetics shape every aspect of their being. Their personalities reflect the precision and control demanded of them, driven by the weight of immense expectations and intricate bonds of loyalty to their superiors and peers. Marked both physically and psychologically by their training, their cybernetic enhancements serve as visible symbols of their transformation, amplifying their abilities while distancing them from the uninitiated. Conditioned to suppress fear and doubt, they become formidable forces of will, their minds fortified through relentless mental conditioning and arcane-technical mastery. Though they command respect and fear from society, within the Covenant, they navigate a web of deep connections forged through shared trials, bound by a lifetime of service and unwavering loyalty to the mission of protecting and expanding Dark Syde’s power.

Contacts

Members of the Covenant are deeply integrated into the fabric of Dark Syde's society, their influence extending far beyond the confines of their institution. As the providers of both education and cybernetic enhancements, they interact with individuals from all walks of life—students, parents, laborers, military personnel, and leaders alike. This extensive network of connections makes Covenant members well-known and often respected figures in the community. Their involvement in shaping the next generation and advancing technological and magical innovations ensures that they are seen as indispensable to the settlement's progress and security. This widespread engagement fosters a sense of familiarity and trust, with many in Dark Syde regarding the Covenant as a cornerstone of their collective identity and future.

Gain 2 contacts from any contact tables for backgrounds based in Dark Syde.

Structure

Where do I Fit in?

you are a crucial part of an organization that blends arcane mastery with cutting-edge technology to shape the future of Dark Syde. Your role could range from being a student honing your magical and cybernetic skills, to an Instructor mentoring the next generation, or even a field operative deploying advanced tech and magic to protect the settlement. The Covenant offers a clear path for growth, allowing you to specialize in areas like research, combat, or leadership while contributing to Dark Syde’s security and innovation. Whether you’re seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible, uncover the secrets of the Covenant’s mysterious practices, or navigate its complex political and societal ties, you will find endless opportunities for intrigue, power, and personal evolution within this elite faction.

Rank and Renown: The Covenant

The Covenant of the Mecha is a meticulously structured faction, with ranks reflecting expertise in the fusion of magic and cybernetics. Members advance by demonstrating mastery of their craft and commitment to the Covenant’s ideals.

Rank 1: Initiate

• Prerequisite: Renown 1 with the Covenant

As a new member, Initiates begin their journey by studying the basics of cybernetic engineering and arcane manipulation. They assist senior members by maintaining existing implants, observing procedures, and contributing to research projects. Initiates are expected to prove their dedication and skill through rigorous testing and practical application.

• You gain access to the Nexus Ascendant, allowing you to board the ship and use its facilities. You are issued a Covenant Insignia, signifying your membership.
• You receive an Implant Vessel (Mark 1) as a cybernetic implant.
• You gain one additional contact from either contact table listed under the background section.

Rank 2: Apprentice

• Prerequisite: Rank 1, Renown 3 with the Covenant, Engineering or Arcana skill +2 or higher

Apprentices are trusted with basic cybernetic modifications and are trained in practical applications of their knowledge. They assist with field installations and experiments under the guidance of Adepts. Apprentices are also encouraged to explore independent research.

• You gain the ability to purchase Dark Gear from the Covenant.
• Your Implant Vessel increases to Mark 2 and remains a cybernetic implant.
• You gain one additional contact from either contact table listed under the background section.

Rank 3: Adept

• Prerequisite: Rank 2, Renown 5 with the Covenant, Engineering or Arcana skill +3 or higher

Adepts are senior apprentices who guide Initiates and oversee smaller projects. They are empowered to lead field teams, optimize implant designs, and assist in larger research endeavors. Adepts are the backbone of Covenant operations.

• Your Implant Vessel increases to Mark 3 and remains a cybernetic implant.
• You may call upon 1d4 Apprentices to assist you in missions or research. Use the following stat block for the Apprentices: Common Person +1 Engineering and Arcana. They will not break laws or endanger themselves but are loyal to your cause.
• You gain one additional contact from either contact table listed under the background section.

Rank 4: Technomancer

• Prerequisite: Rank 3, Renown 10 with the Covenant, Engineering or Arcana skill +4 or higher

Technomancers are advanced students that have begun their path to becoming specialists who have chosen a focus on one of the following: Combat Integration, Cybernetic Development, or Magical Augmentation. They play a key role in advancing the Covenant's technology and work closely with senior members on classified projects. Technomancers are often deployed to assess and recover rare tech or magical artifacts.

• Your Implant Vessel increases to Mark 4 and remains a cybernetic implant.
• You gain the ability to purchase cybernetics from the Covenant.
• You gain one additional contact from either contact table listed under the background section.

Rank 5: Specialist (Choose one Combat Integration, Cybernetic Development, or Magical Augmentation)

• Prerequisite: Rank 4, Renown 15 with the Covenant, Engineering or Arcana skill +6 or higher

Specialists are fully realized members who lead significant projects and train lower-ranked members. They conduct groundbreaking research and are entrusted with high-stakes missions to further the Covenant’s agenda. They also contribute to the faction's vision by developing innovations that benefit Dark Syde.

• You are provided a laboratory on the Nexus Ascendant with a staff of 1d12 Technicians. Use the following stat block for Technicians: Common Person +4 Engineering and Arcana. You may add their bonus (+4) to your checks when they assist you in your work or you can have them complete tasks in your absence.
• You receive an additional cybernetic implant or Dark Gear from the Ultra Modern 5 source book. Your choice.
• You gain one additional contact from either contact table listed under the background section.

Rank 6: Master in _____ (Combat, Cybernetics or Magic based on what was chosen at Rank 5)

• Prerequisite: Rank 5, Renown 25 with the Covenant, Engineering or Arcana skill +8 or higher

Masters oversee major branches of the Covenant, such as Cybernetic Development, Arcane Infusion, or Strategic Operations. They are innovators, mentors, and leaders who push the boundaries of magic and technology while guiding the faction's future.

• You gain access to a team of 2d12 Technicians. Use the following stat block for Technicians: Common Person +6 Engineering and Arcana. Add their bonus (+6) to your checks when they assist you in your work or you can have them complete tasks in your absence.
• You receive an additional cybernetic implant or Dark Gear from the Ultra Modern 5 source book. Your choice.
• You gain one additional contact from either contact table listed under the background section.

Rank 7: Architect

• Prerequisite: Rank 5, Renown 50 with the Covenant, Engineering or Arcana skill +10 or higher.

As an Architect, you are a visionary leader of the Covenant, responsible for its grandest initiatives. Architects work directly with the Grand Arbiter to shape Dark Syde’s future, negotiate alliances for the faction, and advance humanity through technology and magic. You are considered to be amongst the few that are knowledgeable and trustworthy enough to guide the faction's future. Should the Grand Arbiter position become vacant, you are eligible to fill that role.

• You gain access to a team of 3d12 Technicians. Use the following stat block for Technicians: Common Person +8 Engineering and Arcana. Add their bonus (+8) to your checks when they assist you in your work or you can have them complete tasks in your absence.
• You receive a cybernetic implant or Dark Gear of your choice from the Ultra Modern 5 source book.
• You gain one additional contact from either contact table listed under the background section.

Where Shadows Forge Masters.

The Covenant Council, the ruling faction behind the Covenant of the Mecha, is a formidable assembly of elite graduates who exemplify the institution's ideals of magical and technological integration. Comprised of scholars, innovators, strategists, and enforcers, the Council oversees every aspect of the school’s operations, from recruitment and training to research and public relations. Each member of the faction has undergone the same rigorous program that the Covenant enforces on its students, emerging as paragons of the institution’s vision. Unified by a shared commitment to Dark Syde’s advancement and protection, the Covenant Council wields significant influence over the settlement’s direction, shaping policies and innovations that extend far beyond the school’s campus. Despite their polished public image as stewards of progress, the faction is shrouded in mystery and controversy, with critics accusing it of authoritarianism, ethical neglect, and a relentless pursuit of power at any cost.

You step into the room, and the weight of the air seems to press down on you. The space is dimly lit, with the soft glow of bioluminescent orbs lining the walls, their shifting light casting long, flickering shadows across the polished obsidian table at the room's center. Seated around it are ten figures, each cloaked in their station’s authority. Their garments shimmer faintly with the telltale threads of energy woven into the fabric, denoting both rank and purpose. The room is silent but charged, a palpable hum that seems to vibrate through your chest.

As one, they turn to look at you. Ten pairs of eyes — piercing, calculating, and impossibly intense — fall upon you like a storm breaking across an open sea. Each gaze feels like a scalpel, peeling back layers of pretense to lay bare your intentions and purpose. There is no room for uncertainty here, no allowance for weakness. The weight of their scrutiny holds you in place for a heartbeat that stretches into eternity. The council members do not speak, but the expectation in the room is deafening. You have their attention, and now, you must prove you are worthy of it.

Alternative Names

The Covenant

Demonym

Mechacovians

Leader Title

Grand Arbiter

Location

The Dark Syde

Controlled Territories

• Spire of Shadows
• The Dark Syde

Organization Vehicles

• Nexus Ascendant

Related Species

• The Others
• Tuner

Related Historical Events

• 53 SE
  The Covenant of the Mecha
• 52 SE
  The Covenant Council

General Biases

These are the biases that members of this faction typical hold.

Positive Biases

• They favor those who are magically inclined. This bias triggers for any character that has a Vigor score of 8 or more.
• They favor those who are members of the Covenant over those who are not. This bias triggers for any character that has 1 or more Rank with the The Covenant Council .

Negative Biases

• They dislike those who are not magically inclined. This bias trigger for any character that has a Vigor score of 7 or less.
• They dislike those who are not members of the Covenant. This bias triggers for any character that does not have any faction Rank with the The Covenant Council.

Culture

The culture of the Covenant of the Mecha is one of unwavering dedication, discipline, and innovation. Members are taught to strive for excellence, blending arcane mastery with cutting-edge technology to push the boundaries of what is possible. This fusion of magic and machinery is not just a skill but a way of life, ingrained into every aspect of the organization’s operations and ethos. Loyalty to the Covenant and the settlement of Dark Syde is paramount, with members instilled with a sense of duty to protect and advance their society. Rituals and ceremonies mark significant milestones, reinforcing the organization’s values and fostering a shared sense of purpose. At the same time, the Covenant encourages intellectual curiosity and creativity, rewarding those who pioneer new methods or technologies. While the environment is highly structured and intense, it is also collaborative, with mentorship and teamwork emphasized as essential to achieving collective and individual goals. This culture of relentless improvement and service defines the Covenant as both a powerhouse of innovation and a guardian of Dark Syde’s future.

Public Agenda

The public agenda of the Covenant of the Mecha centers on advancing the prosperity, security, and influence of Dark Syde through the seamless integration of magic and technology. Positioned as the pinnacle of innovation and education, the Covenant aims to develop elite individuals who can protect the settlement and drive its progress. By providing cutting-edge cybernetic augmentations, conducting groundbreaking research, and delivering unparalleled training, the Covenant ensures that Dark Syde remains a bastion of power and resilience in a challenging world. Their focus extends beyond defense, emphasizing the cultivation of leaders, scholars, and innovators who can shape the future of the settlement. Through public outreach, technological contributions, and their revered educational programs, the Covenant maintains its image as an indispensable institution, fostering pride among the populace while solidifying its role as a vital cornerstone of Dark Syde’s society.

Education

Allies

The Covenant Council

100

Worshipers of the Choir

100

The Covenant provides them will well trained and well prepared individuals who can take up the mantel of the Dead God.

Allies

The Covenant Council

100

The Veil Walkers

100

The Veil Walkers are the policing organization of Dark Syde and many don't believe that they are actually fully separated from the Covenant. All of their members are chosen from the ranks of the Covenant of the Mecha school to ensure that they are properly prepared to face the world's challenges.

Allies

The Covenant Council

50

The Clockwork Syndicate

50

They tend to do good business together and find that they can co-exist without much trouble.

Neutral

The Covenant Council

0

Rust Keepers

-50

Rust Keepers don't trust the Covenant. Seems they go to far with all their cybernetics and not giving those children a choice.

Enemies

The Covenant Council

-100

The Nightbreakers

-50

The Covenant thinks that the Nightbreakers take too many risks and bring too much trouble back to Dark Syde. The Nightbreakers think that the Covenant is too controlling and oppressive. However, the Nightbreakers are pro magic and cybernetics, they just believe they should be more readily available for everyone and shouldn't be forced upon children.