Lore Chapter - The Shadows' Covenant

Behind closed doors, within the inner circles of the underworld organizations, lies a document that holds the key to their operations - The Mandate of the Abyss.

The Shadow's Covenant was forged in secrecy by the founding members of the Grisvolk along with the Mandate of the Abyss. It served as a blueprint for their ambitions, a code of conduct to govern their actions.

It contains numerous edicts that focuses solely on the creation of Grisvolk organizations and initiation of the members much like the Omertà rituals of Cosa Nostra Mafia or the Bushido code of the Yakuza -

EDICT I - As the first council convenes with the first shadows, the torchbearer of the shadows shall step forth to propose their mantle of leadership. Each founding pillar shall cast their vote, whether it be in favor or dissent. Only upon the harmonious symphony of assent shall the crown of leadership find its rightful bearer. A single ember of dissent shall extinguish the flame of ascension, leaving the shadows to search for a different guiding light.

The selection of the leader of the organization needed an unanimous agreement no majority or all that nonsense. In the gathering of founding members, the de facto leader shall propose their leadership. Each core member shall express their support or dissent. Dissent from even a single member shall preclude ascension to leadership.

EDICT II - Each shadow of the crown bearer shall cast their ballot upon the six keys of power laid before the crown bearer, deciding the extent of their sovereign grasp. Only in the chorus of absolute agreement shall the leader's grasp tighten around each key.

Yet, should the shadows stir in dissent, casting doubt upon the unity of purpose, a single shadow shall emerge, clutching the contested power. Should the discord deepen, if multiple keys remain untuned, a council of twilight advisors shall emerge, weaving their wisdom to illuminate the leader's path.

In the crucible of decision, each member of the syndicate shall cast their vote upon the six powers proposed to the leader, determining the extent of their dominion. Unanimous consent shall decree the mantle of authority for each power.

Should dissension arise, fracturing the unity of purpose, a single vice leader shall emerge to hold sway over the contested power. However, should discord echo across multiple powers, a council of advisors shall convene, offering counsel and wisdom to guide the leader's path amidst the turbulent currents of dissent.

The six powers are - 

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Power of Absolute Delegation: The leader possesses the absolute authority to delegate tasks and responsibilities to other members of the syndicate, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and expertise.

Power of Sovereign Decisions : The leader has the final say in all strategic decisions and operational matters, providing clear direction and guidance to the syndicate.

Power of Response Dominance: In times of crisis or unforeseen circumstances, the leader has the power to implement emergency protocols, mobilize resources, and make swift decisions to protect the interests of the syndicate.

Power of Resource Dominion: The leader holds the authority to allocate financial resources, equipment, and manpower to various operations and initiatives, optimizing the syndicate's capabilities and maximizing profitability.

Power of Negotiation Prowess : The leader is empowered to negotiate with external parties, including rival syndicates, law enforcement agencies, and potential allies, to secure advantageous deals, alliances, and agreements beneficial to the syndicate.

Power of Punitive Authority : In cases of insubordination, betrayal, or failure to adhere to syndicate rules, the leader has the discretion to mete out appropriate disciplinary actions, including expulsion, retribution, or demotion, to maintain discipline and cohesion within the syndicate. 

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EDICT III - Each founding pillar shall unfurl their wisdom, shaping the guiding principles of our covenant. Each word a thread, weaving the tapestry of our creed.

The founding members are encouraged to propose guiding principles reflecting the organization's ethos. The finalized set of principles shall be embraced by all members, guiding their actions and decisions.

Traditionally, after the foundation is established the leader invokes the Power of Absolute Delegation and assigns a role to each member and then invokes the Power of Sovereign Decision to decide the nature of the organization - It can be a Syndicate, a Named Family, a Conglomerate or simply a Club too.

EDICT IV - Like a sturdy fortress built upon its founding pillars, our covenant shall stand unwavering. Henceforth, no new shadows shall breach our covenant's walls, save for the assent of pillars that laid our foundation. These gatherings, akin to the eclipses, shall occur regularly, their frequency determined by the wisdom of the pillars.

The fourth edict states that no new members besides the founding pillars shall be included in the subsequent shadows' covenants unless unanimously agreed upon by the founders. These gatherings shall be held regularly, based on the discretion of the founding pillars.

After the fourth edict is invoked all the current members of the covenant discuss various topics about their organization including but not limited to -

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Setting Objectives and Targets: The group would outline their short-term and long-term goals. This could include specific plans they plan to commit to, territories they aim to control, or revenue targets they want to achieve.

Establishing Operational Procedures: They would discuss how they will communicate securely, handle finances, recruit additional members (if necessary), and resolve internal conflicts. Developing clear protocols can help minimize risks and maximize efficiency.

Identifying Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies: The members would assess potential threats to their operation, such as law enforcement, rival gangs, or internal leaks. They would then brainstorm strategies to mitigate these risks, such as implementing counter-surveillance measures or establishing safe houses.

Next Steps and Follow-Up: The meeting would conclude with a discussion of next steps and a plan for follow-up. This could include assigning specific tasks to each member, scheduling the next meeting, and establishing communication channels for ongoing coordination.

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The Shadow's covenant lays the foundation for a secretive and formidable underworld organization. For decades, law enforcement agencies have grappled with the enigmatic workings of The Grisvolk.