In the place of nations, factions emerged. These were collectives of Siphers who united based on a shared philosophy about the world around them and their place in it.
There are three major factions in Sipheria and a slew of minor ones. The universe of Sipheria is vast beyond measure and so factions are as numerous as can be. However, the three major Factions of Sipheria are the most long-lived and the most powerful: the Maximalist Templars, the Centurion Scholars, and the Shade Syndicate.
Maximalist Templars
⚔️ Earth background: Ex-Financiers, Ex-Politicians, Political Scientists.
The Maximalist Templars are a faction of Surrogates who take inspiration from the knights of old, believing that questing and discoveries are the highest calling of humankind. They explore, planting flags of their order and setting up outposts and garrisons to create an ever-expanding supply chain network.
The Templars are devoted to discovering the unknown of Sipheria and bringing law and order to its realms, believing it is their duty to be the guardians of Kūsōka's universe. They are on a mission to explore and colonize new worlds in the name of their faction.
Naturally, as the faction most determined to explore and claim the worlds of Sipheria, they have amassed great stores of resources, leading to a disparity of wealth and experience between seasoned members and newcomers. This has caused friction and is a potential source of conflict, with some believing that the faction's leaders have lost sight of their original goals.
Arcane Order
🧪 Earth background: Professors, Scientists, Researchers.
The Arcane Order is another of Sipheria's most powerful factions. Unlike the Maximalist Templars, the chief motivating force of the Scholars is not exploration, although they too do venture out to discover new worlds. Rather, for the Centurion Scholars, understanding and cataloging these worlds is just as important as discovering them.
They are the science mages and data priests of Sipheria, renowned for their mastery of super-science and technology, which is so advanced that it appears to be indistinguishable from magic. They are known for pushing the boundaries of what is thought to be impossible and disregarding the laws of physics.
The Arcane Order explores the mysterious new worlds of Kūsōka's universe, seeking to understand its laws and reshape the Blocks according to their own vision. They are masters of engineering and construction and are constantly expanding their cities and research facilities. However, their reckless thirst for knowledge can be dangerous, as some mysteries can unlock things beyond their control.
Shade Syndicate
🥷 Earth background: Gamblers, Traders, Speculators.
The Shade Syndicate is one of the three most notable factions of Sipheria, characterized by their anti-establishment values and desire for freedom and independence. They prioritize privacy and reject orders and institutions.
Little is known about the Syndicate's origins but their philosophy has proven to be alluring to the Surrogate. Many have joined the ranks of this secret order in pursuit of true freedom and liberation.
This faction has no central power structure or clear chain of command. Rather each individual member is encouraged to do as they please to further the Brotherhood's cause of liberty and freedom.
Members of the faction can be divided into three categories: anarchical forces of chaos, neutral negotiators, and pragmatic mercenaries driven by profit. These members have different motivations and goals, but all strive to challenge the status quo and gain resources.
Other Factions
Minor Factions
The Blocks of Sipheria are home to an array of minor factions. Some are tied to particular Blocks or types of Blocks, such as aquatic factions that specialize in water-based worlds, and Desert factions that focus on desert worlds. Others dedicate themselves to the gods, while some strive to push the boundaries of their Surrogate bodies. All have their own unique goals and objectives.
Lost Factions
Aside from the factions that are known, there are also a number of lost factions. These have either disbanded due to a lack of members or have vanished into the furthest reaches of Sipheria space. Their goals, motivations, size, and scope of influence remain unknown.