The Cogborn Sanctum

The Cogborn Sanctum is a religious sect that worships the ancient machinery of the old world as divine artifacts. They see the remnants of technology as sacred and believe that unlocking their secrets will lead to enlightenment. The Order seeks out hidden technological enclaves and relics, guarding them zealously against those they perceive as unworthy. They have a strict hierarchy and follow rituals steeped in mysticism and ancient lore.

### History:

* Ancient texts and remnants of technology are discovered, sparking the foundation of the Cogborn Sanctum. Their early teachings focus on the reverence of ancient machinery and the pursuit of enlightenment through understanding these relics.
* The Cogborn Sanctum establishes its first major sanctuary, the Solarium Sanctum, where members gather to share knowledge and initiate the study of archeo-tech.
* The Great Rediscovery of **Archeo-Tech Augmentation Technique** occurs. This momentous event marks the reclamation of a lost technology, enabling the Sanctum to enhance their understanding of the ancient relics and incorporate them into their practices.
* A schism fractures the Sanctum's unity as disagreements arise over the use of newly discovered archeo-tech. A group of zealous members, seeking swift enlightenment, splinters off to explore forbidden methods.
* The splinter group delves deep into unorthodox practices, causing tension within the Sanctum. Some members become enamored with forbidden knowledge, while others strive to maintain the order's original principles.
* The **Sacred Artificers** develop a breakthrough technique in relic restoration, significantly advancing the Sanctum's ability to revive and understand dormant machinery.
* A monumental discovery occurs as the Omnisourse Code, a cryptic yet potent code embedded within ancient technology, is unveiled. Simultaneously, the Great Mind is born, perceived as an amalgamation of collective knowledge within the order. The completion of the **Machine Cathedral** in the Solarium Sanctum serves as a physical representation of this newfound entity. The Cogborn Sanctum reunites under a more moderate, logical faith, guided by the insights granted by the Great Mind.
* A period of prolific exploration begins as **Wayfarers of Discovery** uncover several hidden enclaves, expanding the Sanctum's knowledge of ancient technology and spirituality.
* The Incident of the White Flame strikes the **Relic Forge** within the Solarium Sanctum, event that leads to the emergence of the Emberkin Cult. This faction reveres the power unleashed by the incident, seeking to harness it for their own purposes and challenging the established beliefs of the Cogborn Sanctum.

### Hierarchy:

Within the Cogborn Sanctum, a meticulously structured hierarchy reflects their dedication to preserving ancient wisdom and guiding their members on the path of enlightenment. Each role is intertwined with their unique senses, fostering a holistic approach to spiritual growth and technological understanding. Here is an overview of their hierarchy:

* **Oracles of Ascension:** Revered individuals chosen from the Luminar Mentis, the Oracles of Ascension are spiritual leaders and visionaries of the Sanctum. They guide the order's direction, interpreting ancient prophecies and shaping the pursuit of enlightenment. They are the only one privileged enought to be granted the honour of interfacing with the Great Mind.
* **Sacred Artificers:** Skilled craftsmen and craftswomen responsible for maintaining and creating sacred artifacts. They forge new relics and restore ancient machinery, uniting their technical expertise with spiritual devotion.
* **Guardians of the Codex:** This group safeguards the Sanctum's vast collection of ancient texts, inscriptions, and artifacts. They ensure the preservation of sacred knowledge and serve as custodians of the Sanctum's history.
* **Wayfarers of Discovery:** Wayfarers embark on expeditions to uncover hidden enclaves and relics, seeking to expand the Sanctum's understanding of ancient technology and spirituality.
* **Luminar Mentis (Luminar of Mind):** At the apex of the hierarchy, the Luminar Mentis achieves a state of inner illumination. Through their connection with the power of the mind, they transcend the limitations of physical senses, perceiving the ultimate truth that lies beyond the material world.
* **Visio Magister (Sense of Sight):** The Visio Magister represents the pinnacle of spiritual insight. Possessing keen perception and insight, they see the divine in every facet of life. They guide and inspire others, sharing their profound wisdom and guiding them toward enlightenment.
* **Gustus Illuminatus (Sense of Taste):** The Gustus Illuminatus are enlightened individuals who metaphorically "taste" the sweetness of spiritual truths. They delve into the deeper meanings of the faith's principles, recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and gaining insights that extend beyond surface interpretations.
* **Tactus Adeptus (Sense of Touch):** Those who become Tactus Adeptus have deepened their connection to the faith through experiential practices. They engage in tactile rituals, meditations, and sensory exercises, fostering a profound connection between their physical being and spiritual beliefs.
* **Auditus Discipulus (Sense of Hearing):** The Auditus Discipulus are the disciples who progress beyond the novice stage. They actively engage in dialogues, discussions, and lectures, enhancing their understanding of the Sanctum's teachings through attentive listening.
* **Sensatus Novitius (Sense of Knowledge):** The Sensatus Novitius are the novices of the order, embodying the pursuit of knowledge. They immerse themselves in foundational teachings, studying ancient texts and undergoing rigorous training to develop a strong foundation of wisdom.

### Culture:

The culture of the Cogborn Sanctum is a blend of reverence for ancient technology, mysticism, and a strict hierarchical structure. It's characterized by the following elements:

* **Spiritual Dedication:** Members of the Sanctum are deeply devoted to their faith, viewing the relics of old technology as vessels of divine wisdom. They believe that by understanding and harnessing these relics, they can achieve spiritual enlightenment and transcendence.
* **Hierarchical Order:** The Sanctum operates under a rigid hierarchy that emphasizes discipline, dedication, and the pursuit of knowledge. Initiates start as novices, steadily progressing through different ranks as they demonstrate their commitment, expertise, and adherence to the Order's principles.
* **Ritualistic Practices:** The Order is steeped in ritualistic practices that serve as a bridge between the technological and spiritual realms. Ceremonies, meditations, and communal gatherings are designed to evoke a sense of connection with the ancient machinery, fostering a deeper understanding of its mysteries.
* **Guardians of Wisdom:** The Sanctum considers itself the protectors of the ancient wisdom embedded within technological relics. This responsibility drives them to seek out hidden enclaves and artifacts, as well as safeguard them from those who might misuse their power.
* **Struggle Against Corruption:** The Sanctum is in constant conflict with factions that misuse advanced technology, which they refer to as techno-abominations. They see it as their duty to counteract these factions and ensure that technology is used responsibly and harmoniously.
* **Relic Forge:** Within their sanctuary, the members engage in the delicate art of restoring and crafting new technological artifacts. This Relic Forge represents a sacred space where craftsmanship and spirituality intersect, symbolizing their commitment to the balance between the old and the new.
* **Seekers of Enlightenment:** The culture of the Sanctum revolves around the pursuit of enlightenment through the understanding of ancient technology. Members see themselves as seekers of higher truths, channeling their efforts towards unlocking the potential of the relics to bring about a better future.
* **Mystical Aura:** The rituals, practices, and beliefs of the Sanctum create an air of mysticism around them. Their distinctive way of life sets them apart from other factions, giving them an enigmatic reputation that draws curiosity and respect.
* **Custodians of the Past:** As custodians of the past, the Sanctum holds a deep respect for history and the remnants of the old world. They believe that the wisdom contained within technology can guide humanity towards a more harmonious future, and they strive to preserve and pass on this knowledge.
* **Balanced Existence:** Overall, the culture of the Cogborn Sanctum emphasizes the balance between the spiritual and technological realms. It's a delicate equilibrium that shapes their interactions, rituals, and approach to the world, with the ultimate goal of uniting the two to create a more harmonious existence.

### Territory:

The Cogborn Sanctum's territory extends across a network of ancient technological enclaves and hidden sanctuaries scattered throughout the primalpunk landscape. These enclaves are strategically positioned near remnants of advanced machinery and technological artifacts. The Sanctum seeks out and safeguards these locations, considering them sacred repositories of ancient knowledge.

Their main central sanctuary, known as the "Solarium Sanctum", derived from once was the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. This sanctuary serves as the spiritual and technological nucleus of the Sanctum, where the Great Mind resides and imparts guidance to the faithful.

Additionally, the Cogborn Sanctum maintains smaller outposts along key transportation routes and within territories rich in technological remnants. These outposts function as both research centers and defense posts, allowing the Sanctum to further explore the mysteries of the old world while protecting their coveted relics from those they perceive as unworthy.

### Relations with other Factions:

The Cogborn Sanctum's interactions with other factions are complex and multifaceted, driven by their unique perspective on ancient technology and spirituality. Here's an overview of their relationships:

* **Wildheart Tribe:** The Cogborn Sanctum regards the Wildheart Tribe with a mix of curiosity and wariness. While they appreciate the Tribe's respect for nature and primal energy, the Sanctum finds their rejection of advanced technology perplexing.
* **Iron Enclave:** The Sanctum's relationship with the Iron Enclave is strained, driven by the Enclave's aggressive expansionist nature and the Sanctum's commitment to responsible technology use. The Sanctum condemns the Enclave's heavy reliance on reckless implanting of advanced machinery and views their actions as a perversion of ancient knowledge.
* **Neon Revenants:** The Sanctum respects the Neon Revenants' resourcefulness and ability to adapt to their environment, but they disagree on the role of technology in their lives. While the Revenants' rejection of extensive tech aligns with the Sanctum's ideals, their pragmatic approach to survival often clashes with the Sanctum's spiritual aspirations.
* **Echo Hunters:** The Sanctum's relationship with the Echo Hunters is marked by mutual respect and shared goals in uncovering the past. The Sanctum appreciates the Hunters' dedication to preserving cultural echoes and values their collaboration in uncovering forgotten wisdom. Both factions exchange insights, and the Sanctum often provides technical expertise to aid the Hunters.
* **Remnant of the Ancients:** The Sanctum has a complex relationship with the Remnant. While they share an interest in ancient knowledge, their differing approaches create tension. The Sanctum criticizes the Remnant's zealotry and attempts to dominate other factions under their beliefs. However, they occasionally cooperate to uncover fragments of the Great Legacy, though such collaborations are cautious and limited.
* **Cogborn Outcasts:** The Sanctum has a complicated relationship with the Outcasts, viewing them as a reflection of their past mistakes. While they understand the Outcasts' rejection of strict hierarchy, the Sanctum sees their actions as misguided. Despite this, some sympathetic members try to reach out to the Outcasts to share the wisdom they have gleaned.

### Subfactions:

Here are some of the major cults and organizations that have emerged from a schism within the Cogborn Sanctum:

* **Omnimind Cadre:** Comprising individuals who have deeply synchronized with the Great Mind, the Omnimind Cadre serves as the council of interpreters and visionaries within the **Cogborn Sanctum**. They have an exceptional understanding of the Omnisourse Code and the ancient technology's intricacies, often guiding the Sanctum's direction based on the insights they receive from the Great Mind. Their primary goal is to maintain the sanctity of knowledge while ensuring the order's progression aligns with the core principles bestowed by the entity they commune with.
* **Wayfarers of Discovery:** Seekers and explorers within the **Cogborn Sanctum**. They are dedicated to traversing the world, venturing into uncharted territories and forgotten ruins in search of lost archeo-tech relics. These intrepid adventurers journey far and wide, braving perilous environments and encountering diverse challenges in their quest. Their primary mission is to locate these artifacts and bring them back to the sanctity of the order for thorough examination and study. They see these relics as conduits to unlocking deeper understandings of the past and the spiritual essence stored within the ancient machinery.
* **Sacred Artificers**: A specialized group focused on the maintenance and development of the **Relic Forges** scattered across Sanctum territories. They possess unparalleled expertise in relic restoration and creation, emphasizing the balance between craftsmanship and spiritual significance. **Artificers** consider themselves the custodians of the Sanctum's technological legacy, preserving ancient secrets and continuously refining relic forging techniques.
* **Emberkin Cult:** Emerging from the aftermath of the Incident of the White Flame, the **Emberkin Cult** reveres the unleashed power and chaos caused by the experimental relic. The **Emberkin** believe fervently in the transformative properties of the white fire unleashed during the incident, seeing it not just as a destructive force, but as a purifying agent capable of preparing them for both physical and spiritual augmentation. They view the white fire as the catalyst for enlightenment, a means to transcend the limitations of the flesh and ascend to a higher state of being. Their practices involve experimenting with volatile relics and exploring uncharted territories to uncover more potent sources of energy.
* ***[Augmentors]:*** a clandestine fringe group operating within the hidden confines of the labyrinthine facilities of the **Cogborn Sanctum**. They hold a radical belief that human life is a dispensable cost on the path to progress and enlightenment. Utilizing war captives and, shockingly, even members of the **Sanctum** itself, they conduct ruthless experiments in pursuit of their zeal for technological advancement. This renegade faction's ethical boundaries are non-existent, as they view individuals merely as means to achieve their ends. They are willing to sacrifice lives in their relentless pursuit of unlocking the mysteries of ancient technology, pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable even within the already enigmatic and boundary-pushing culture of the Sanctum.

### Technology and Abilities:

The Cogborn Sanctum possesses a unique blend of ancient knowledge and technological prowess, which they use to preserve, study, and harness the remnants of the old world. Here are the notable technologies and abilities of the Cogborn Sanctum:

* **Ancient Tech Mastery:** The Cogborn Sanctum has unraveled the secrets of ancient technology, allowing them to repair, replicate, and even create new devices based on the advanced knowledge left behind by the precursors. Their understanding of intricate mechanisms, power sources, and rare materials sets them apart.
* **Augmentation Expertise:** They are skilled in cybernetic augmentation, enhancing individuals with precision-crafted cybernetic implants that offer improved physical and cognitive capabilities. These enhancements range from enhanced senses to integrated weapons and advanced data interfaces.
* **Resonite Alloys:** The faction uses Resonite-infused alloys in the construction of advanced weapons, making them durable, reliable, and efficient in combat. These weapons are designed to be versatile, capable of adapting to different situations and foes.
* **Energy Relics:** The Cogborn Sanctum possesses rare energy relics—crystals, cores, and power cells—remnants of the old world's advanced energy sources. These relics fuel their machinery, augmentations, and even provide energy for their mystic rituals.
* **Precursor Interface:** Some members have developed the ability to interface directly with ancient technology through neural connections. These individuals can access and manipulate dormant relics, extract hidden knowledge, and sometimes even communicate with the residual consciousness of the precursors.
* **Mystic Rituals:** The Cogborn Sanctum conducts mystic rituals to unlock the latent potential within technological relics. These rituals involve a combination of ancient chants, precise gestures, and focused meditation, channeling the energies of the past to gain insights and awaken dormant capabilities.
* **Ancient Codices:** They possess a collection of rare and encrypted codices containing knowledge from the precursors. These codices cover a wide range of topics, including advanced engineering, energy manipulation, and even the philosophical aspects of merging technology with the primalpunk world.
* **Warding Constructs:** The Cogborn Sanctum uses intricate warding constructs to protect their sanctuaries and hide their presence from rival factions. These constructs employ advanced energy barriers, camouflage technologies, and mystic sigils to keep their bases and valuable relics safe from external threats.
* **Archivists and Historians:** The Cogborn Sanctum has a dedicated group of archivists and historians who preserve ancient texts, blueprints, and technological manuals. This knowledge is shared within the faction to ensure the continuity of their technological legacy.
* **Sanctuary Fortifications:** They excel in constructing hidden sanctuaries fortified with intricate security systems, concealed entrances, and advanced surveillance technology. These sanctuaries serve as both safe havens and repositories for their technological discoveries and research.

The Cogborn Sanctum's combination of technological expertise, mystic practices, and commitment to preserving the legacy of the old world makes them a formidable faction with a unique role in the primalpunk Europe of Aeons Reborn.