In the post-barrier Tevinter, the Eyes stand as an omnipresent force, serving the Archon and maintaining the fragile order within the isolated nation. Loosely inspired by the KGB, this clandestine organization operates in the shadows, enforcing the state's narrative, crushing dissent, and ensuring the survival of the ruling regime.
Leadership and Structure:
At the pinnacle of the Eyes is the enigmatic Guildmaster, a figure shrouded in secrecy, whose identity remains hidden to all but the Archon and Chancellor. The Chancellor, serving as the second in command, oversees the day-to-day operations, ensuring stability and performance within the organization. These leaders work closely with the Archon, reporting directly to them on matters of internal security.
Beneath the Guildmaster and Chancellor, the organization is divided into specialized branches, each led by a high-ranking operative. These branches include:
Heads of Police and Secret Police:
Overseeing the regular police force and the more covert operations, these leaders are responsible for maintaining control within the general populace.
Head of Police:
Description: A shrewd and calculating Magister, this leader oversees the regular police force, ensuring they enforce the state's laws with an iron fist. Known for unwavering loyalty to the Archon, they believe in maintaining order through fear and strict control. Their influence extends not only through the city streets but also into the darkest corners of Tevinter's underworld.
Plot Idea: As dissent grows within the populace post-barrier fall, this leader employs increasingly ruthless tactics to suppress any signs of rebellion. A group of rebels seeks to expose their corruption, leading to a dangerous game of cat and mouse that threatens to unravel the carefully woven tapestry of authority.
Head of Secret Police:
Description: A shadowy figure with an enigmatic past, this leader is the elusive head of the Secret Police. Operating in the shadows, their network of spies and informants ensures that dissent is rooted out before it can blossom. Known for their ruthlessness, they serve the Archon faithfully, eliminating threats to the state with efficiency.
Plot Idea: The leader discovers a deep-seated conspiracy within the Magisterium, threatening to expose the Archon's lies. As they navigate the treacherous waters of political intrigue, rival factions within the Secret Police attempt to seize control. The leader must outmaneuver both internal and external threats to protect the secrets that bind Tevinter together.
Specific Heads of Government Departments:
Infiltrating various government sectors, these individuals monitor and influence projects, ensuring they align with the state's interests.
Head of Arcane Research Department:
Description: A brilliant and ambitious Magister, this leader heads the Arcane Research Department, delving into magical experiments that further Tevinter's power. Their loyalty lies with the Archon, and they ensure that any magical discoveries align with the state's interests, even if it means sacrificing ethical considerations.
Plot Idea: Unbeknownst to the state, the leader stumbles upon an ancient and powerful artifact with the potential to reshape the balance of power. Caught between duty to the Archon and the temptation of personal glory, they must navigate a perilous path, risking everything to harness the artifact's potential without drawing unwanted attention.
Head of Information Bureau:
Description: A master manipulator and expert in espionage, this leader oversees the Information Bureau, disseminating carefully crafted narratives that serve the state's interests. Their web of influence extends throughout Tevinter's political landscape, ensuring that information flows in ways that benefit the Archon.
Plot Idea: The leader discovers a dangerous secret within the inner circles of the Magisterium, threatening to destabilize the delicate balance of power. As they attempt to manipulate events to their advantage, they become entangled in a high-stakes game where loyalties are tested, and alliances crumble. The leader must navigate the intricate web of Tevinter politics to protect their position and the state's secrets.
Border Agents:
Tasked with overseeing the heavily fortified borders, these agents prevent unauthorized entry and conduct thorough investigations of those seeking access.
High Counselor and Cabinet Magister:
Members within the Senate and Lower House respectively, these figures serve as the Secret Police's eyes and ears within the political arena.
Powers and Operations:
The Secret Police wield extensive powers, allowing them to operate with ruthless efficiency in the pursuit of their objectives. These powers include:
- Arrest and Imprisonment: Based on suspicion and limited evidence, the Secret Police can apprehend individuals discreetly, often catching them off guard. Those arrested may face public humiliation, career penalties, financial consequences, imprisonment, or even banishment.
- Surveillance: Utilizing a range of methods, including magical means and informants, the Secret Police maintains a constant watch over citizens, ensuring compliance and ferreting out dissent.
- Fabrication of Evidence: When necessary, the Secret Police can create false narratives to further the state's agenda, justifying arrests or discrediting opposition.
- Investigative Powers: The organization can probe any section, department, or project funded or employed by the state, ensuring alignment with the Archon's vision.
- Coercion and Public Humiliation: Individuals accused of crimes against the state may face public humiliation as a deterrent. Coercion and manipulation are common tools used to extract information or confessions.
Punishments:
Sentences handed down by the Secret Police are diverse and serve the purpose of reinforcing the state's position. Punishments range from public humiliation and financial penalties to imprisonment, banishment, and even death. The severity depends on the perceived threat the individual poses to the established order.
Stations and Networks:
Throughout Tevinter, the Secret Police maintains hidden stations, often masquerading as homes or properties of its members. These stations serve as interrogation centers and houses for those arrested. Spread strategically across the nation, they create a network facilitating rapid response to any perceived threats.
Public Perception:
Publicly, the Secret Police is portrayed as the defender of Tevinter, protecting citizens from the potential dangers lurking beyond the barrier. The propaganda emphasizes the necessity of their actions for the state's survival, framing their operations as a shield against apocalypse, Qunari threats, and divine selection.
In the volatile landscape of post-barrier Tevinter, the Secret Police emerge as a formidable force, shaping the narrative and ensuring the Archon's grip on power remains unchallenged. Their actions cast a long and dark shadow over the lives of Tevinter's inhabitants, making dissent a perilous endeavor.
02-24-2024, 11:03 AM