The Machine

History & Introduction

The origins of The Machine are shrouded in secrecy, as is the very existence of this covert faction. While their exact inception date is unknown, The Machine has long operated in the shadows, expertly executing clandestine tasks and ensuring their presence remains concealed.

Hierarchy

Control
The enigmatic leader at the highest echelon, known only to a select few. Control is the puppeteer who orchestrates the intricate mechanisms of The Machine.
Mainspring
Directly under Control, Mainsprings are the top handlers of the organization. They oversee the Levers and Control's directives.
Levers
Levers are skilled handlers responsible for orchestrating and managing groups of Cogs. They act as intermediaries between Control's grand design and the field agents.
Cogs
Agents who form the backbone of The Machine. Cogs are operatives trained in various covert skills, espionage, and subterfuge. They carry out the organization's covert missions and report to their Levers.
Pinions
Entry-level members of The Machine, Pinions are recruits who undergo intensive training and initiation. They aspire to become Cogs after proving their loyalty and skills.

Distinctive Marks

Each member of The Machine carries a small, seemingly innocuous arcane trinket. These items vary in appearance, ranging from cogs and nuts to bolts, keys, or musical cylinders. While appearing mundane, these trinkets are symbolic representations of the intricate machinery that The Machine operates.

Communication

Agents of The Machine use cipher books to decode and encode messages, ensuring that their communications remain hidden from prying eyes. This sophisticated system allows for secure and covert information exchange among members.

Presence

The Machine maintains a discreet presence in numerous major cities, ensuring that their operations extend across a wide geographical area. However, the organization's ability to remain hidden in plain sight is a testament to their skill and dedication to secrecy.

Objectives

The exact goals and objectives of The Machine remain a mystery to those outside the organization. Their covert operations span a range of activities, from intelligence gathering and surveillance to sabotage and espionage. What drives The Machine and who benefits from their actions are questions that continue to elude even the most astute observers.

Removal or Dismissal

Extraction from The Machine is a rarity, and those who attempt to leave the organization often face dire consequences. The enigmatic Control holds the power to remove or dismiss members, but the criteria for such actions remain known only to the highest echelons of the organization.