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The "Cult of the Eternal Covenant" is one of the most widespread and insidious of Maltherion’s undead cults. Operating in secrecy within major cities, remote settlements, and even among influential circles, this cult preaches a doctrine of immortality through undeath, framed as a divine gift to escape the fragility of mortal existence. Their teachings resonate with those who fear death, suffer from illness, or desire power beyond what a mortal lifespan can provide. The cult is structured like a secret society, with cells spread across the world, each led by undead leaders who present themselves as enlightened beings.
The "Cult of the Eternal Covenant" is one of the most widespread and insidious of Maltherion’s undead cults. Operating in secrecy within major cities, remote settlements, and even among influential circles, this cult preaches a doctrine of immortality through undeath, framed as a divine gift to escape the fragility of mortal existence. Their teachings resonate with those who fear death, suffer from illness, or desire power beyond what a mortal lifespan can provide. The cult is structured like a secret society, with cells spread across the world, each led by undead leaders who present themselves as enlightened beings.
Structure of the Eternal Covenant


===High Council (The Enlightened Ones):===
===Structure of the Eternal Covenant===
    At the top of the cult is the High Council, composed of powerful undead beings—mostly liches, revenants, and vampires—directly loyal to Maltherion. These individuals are often former high-ranking mages, priests, or nobles who have embraced undeath. They oversee the cult’s long-term goals, coordinate with other agents of Maltherion, and work to expand the influence of the Eternal Covenant. They rarely appear in public, preferring to work through intermediaries.
====High Council (The Enlightened Ones)====
The Enlightened Ones are actually all wizards who have gone through the process to transition to lichdom and all that it entailes.  Following Maltherion's development of the [[Great Transition]] process, they have been persuaded to work together to spread this alternative method of increasing the number of undead that can pass as living.
====The Covenant Priests (The Redeemers):====
Below the High Council are the Covenant Priests, or Redeemers. These are undead "clergy" who serve as spiritual guides for the cult’s followers. They are priests of Durmstang who have gone through the Great Transformation themselves and now manage the process for others.   They are charismatic and well-versed in theology, capable of weaving the cult's message into the beliefs of the local population.


===The Covenant Priests (The Redeemers):===
====The Undying (The Chosen Ones):====
    Below the High Council are the Covenant Priests, or Redeemers. These are undead clergy (often necromancers or death knights) who serve as spiritual guides for the cult’s followers. They maintain the guise of living priests but are in fact undead, hiding their true nature from most initiates until they are deemed ready to “ascend.” Redeemers lead secret rituals, perform conversions, and indoctrinate new members. They are charismatic and well-versed in theology, capable of weaving the cult's message into the beliefs of the local population.
These are the cult’s most dedicated followers who have also undergone the Great Transition into undeath. The Undying hold positions of influence within mortal society—nobles, military officers and other key positions — where they spread the cult’s teachings while maintaining their secret. They act as both the enforcers and recruiters of the cult.


===The Undying (The Chosen Ones):===
====The Living Faithful (The Seekers):====
    These are the cult’s most dedicated followers who have undergone the transformation into undeath. They often appear human, thanks to Maltherion’s advances in creating undead that mimic life perfectly, with only subtle hints of their true nature. The Undying hold positions of influence within mortal society—nobles, military officers, or religious leaders—where they spread the cult’s teachings while maintaining their secret. They act as both the enforcers and recruiters of the cult.
The Seekers are the living members of the Eternal Covenant. Many of them are common folk suffering from illness, poverty, or grief, but some are wealthy elites seeking power or eternal youth. Seekers are taught that undeath is the ultimate salvation and are gradually prepared for the transformation. They are initiated through a series of rituals that bind them to the cult, while those most loyal are eventually given the opportunity to “ascend” and become Undying.  They are also sworn into secrecy, since of course "''the world is not yet ready for them to reveal their new status''".


===The Living Faithful (The Seekers):===
====Thralls (The Forgotten):====
    The Seekers are the living members of the Eternal Covenant. Many of them are common folk suffering from illness, poverty, or grief, but some are wealthy elites seeking power or eternal youth. Seekers are taught that undeath is the ultimate salvation and are gradually prepared for the transformation. They are initiated through a series of rituals that bind them to the cult, while those most loyal are eventually given the opportunity to “ascend” and become Undying.
The lowest tier consists of the Thralls—those who failed the process of becoming Undying or were unwilling sacrifices because they were going to reveal the cult's secrets. They are bound to the cult as mindless or semi-sentient undead servants, often used as guards or shock troops. They serve as a reminder to other cult members of the potential cost of failure, keeping them loyal and fearful of betraying the cult’s ideals.
 
===Thralls (The Forgotten):===
    The lowest tier consists of the Thralls—those who failed the process of becoming Undying or were unwilling sacrifices. They are bound to the cult as mindless or semi-sentient undead servants, often used as guards or shock troops. They serve as a reminder to other cult members of the potential cost of failure, keeping them loyal and fearful of betraying the cult’s ideals.


===KEY NPCS===
===KEY NPCS===
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     Tactics: She targets the sick and desperate, offering them eternal life and freedom from pain if they join the Covenant.
     Tactics: She targets the sick and desperate, offering them eternal life and freedom from pain if they join the Covenant.


Persuasive Arguments for Conversion
===Persuasive Arguments for Conversion===
The Cult of the Eternal Covenant employs a variety of persuasive tactics to convince mortals to embrace undeath. These arguments vary depending on the target’s social status, fears, or desires, but the central message is always the same: undeath is freedom, immortality, and power.


    Eternal Youth and Power:
'''Eternal Youth and Power:'''
     "Why let the frailties of life define you? Age, illness, death—these are the chains that hold us down. But through undeath, you will remain forever youthful, forever strong. Think of all you can accomplish without the burden of time."
     "Why let the frailties of life define you? Age, illness, death—these are the chains that hold us down. But through undeath, you will remain forever youthful, forever strong. Think of all you can accomplish without the burden of time."
    "Why waste your short life awaiting the inevitable? Join us, and death need not come for you. Live forever, free of sickness, age, and the frailties of the mortal coil. You will retain your mind, your body, and everything that makes you... you."


    Freedom from the Gods:
'''Freedom from the Gods:'''
     "The gods have bound us to a cycle of life and death, trapping our souls in an endless loop of suffering. We offer you a way out—a chance to be free from their grasp, to live beyond their rules. The Eternal Covenant is salvation."
     "The gods have bound us to a cycle of life and death, trapping our souls in an endless loop of suffering. We offer you a way out—a chance to be free from their grasp, to live beyond their rules. The Eternal Covenant is salvation."
    "The gods bind you to a cycle that weakens your potential. In death, you can transcend this. Imagine wielding powers undreamed of, unburdened by your living body. Undeath is not an end but a new beginning—an evolution."
    "Why should your soul be subject to the whims of gods, their judgment determining your fate for eternity? We offer you an alternative—a way to escape their grasp. Join us, and you will never have to fear their punishment."


    Escape from Pain and Suffering:
'''Escape from Pain and Suffering:'''
     "Life is suffering. Disease, loss, and fear of the unknown plague us all. But undeath is peace. It is the end of pain, the end of uncertainty. Through the Covenant, you will transcend these mortal woes and find true peace."
     "Life is suffering. Disease, loss, and fear of the unknown plague us all. But undeath is peace. It is the end of pain, the end of uncertainty. Through the Covenant, you will transcend these mortal woes and find true peace."


    A Second Chance at Life:
'''A Second Chance at Life:'''
     "Have you been wronged by fate? Lost loved ones? Failed to achieve your dreams? Undeath offers a second chance—a new life where failure no longer haunts you and death cannot claim you."
     "Have you been wronged by fate? Lost loved ones? Failed to achieve your dreams? Undeath offers a second chance—a new life where failure no longer haunts you and death cannot claim you."
    "You will look as you do now, live as you do now, but without fear of death. You will still feel, experience, and think, just as you did in life—only stronger, only better."
    "In death, all are equal. You could be a peasant today and a ruler in undeath. No one will question your place when mortality no longer defines power. The Eternal Veil is for all who wish to transcend the mortal hierarchy."


What the Undead Look Like in Game Terms
===Game Mechanics===
 
Maltherion’s advances in creating the Undying have resulted in beings that appear nearly indistinguishable from living humans, elves, or other races. However, they come with subtle, but significant downsides:
 
    Necrotic Aura: Though they appear alive, the Undying emit a faint necrotic aura that can be sensed by those attuned to divine or life magic. This makes it difficult to hide their true nature from clerics or paladins.
    No Healing: Unlike living creatures, the Undying cannot be healed by conventional magic. Healing spells either have no effect or harm them, and they must rely on necromantic rituals or rest to recover from injuries.
    Soul Tether: The process binds their souls to Maltherion’s Soulforge, making them vulnerable to his control. They retain free will, but disobeying direct orders from the cult or attempting to leave triggers overwhelming pain or even death.
    Lifeless Eyes: Their eyes lose the sparkle of life, becoming cold and glassy. Though this is subtle, those who spend time with them may sense something off.
----
Cult of the Eternal Veil
 
Overview: The Cult of the Eternal Veil is one of the most prominent death cults aligned with Maltherion, The Whispering Lich, operating within cities, isolated regions, and even some kingdoms. This secretive cult is devoted to spreading the belief that undeath is not a curse, but a form of salvation. They preach that the mortal cycle of life and death is flawed and that only by transcending mortality can one achieve true freedom and immortality. Through carefully placed agents, subtle propaganda, and the manipulation of powerful figures, the Cult works to normalize undeath as the ultimate evolutionary state.
Structure
 
1. High Priest of the Eternal Veil (Leader)
The High Priest is the spiritual and administrative leader of the cult, often a powerful undead being or even a lich in some cases. They are the primary conduit for Maltherion’s will and interpret his teachings for the cult’s followers. The High Priest controls major decisions regarding expansion, recruitment, and cult activities.
 
2. The Heralds of Transcendence (Senior Members)
These are senior cult members who serve as the right hand of the High Priest. The Heralds are responsible for overseeing specific regions or key cities, managing operations, and recruiting new members. Many Heralds are themselves undead, either vampires, liches, or other powerful beings, who have undergone the transformation and serve as living proof of the cult's promises.
 
3. The Seekers (Mid-Level Members)
The Seekers are tasked with identifying and recruiting potential candidates for the "Great Transition"—the process of undergoing the ritual to become undead. They blend into society, often posing as scholars, priests, or nobles, using their influence to spread the doctrine of the Eternal Veil. They also oversee the initiation rituals and guide new converts through the first stages of their transformation.
 
4. The Veiled (Converts)
These are the cult’s rank-and-file members, mortals who have joined in the hopes of achieving immortality. Some are still living, awaiting their transition into undeath, while others have already undergone the transformation into minor forms of undead, such as wights, revenants, or other undead beings that retain a semblance of their former humanity.


5. The Undying Servants (Lesser Undead)
New members of the cult will go through a process to transition to undeath, this process is called the [[Great Transition]]
These are mindless or semi-sentient undead created by the cult to serve its members. They handle menial tasks, guard the cult’s hidden locations, and are often the first line of defense against intruders. Although they are rarely seen in public, the Undying Servants are integral to the cult’s everyday operations.
NPCs of the Eternal Veil


High Priestess Vanyra Greyshade
Maltherion’s advances in creating the Undying have resulted in beings that appear nearly indistinguishable from living humans, elves, or other races. However, they come with subtle, but significant pros and cons:
A charismatic and ruthless vampire, Vanyra Greyshade is the current leader of the Eternal Veil in the kingdom of Pacedonia. She was once a noblewoman who turned to the cult after a near-death experience. Vanyra is known for her cold demeanor and calculated approach to manipulation, often recruiting disillusioned members of society. She preaches that undeath is not only a way to escape mortality but a path to power, positioning herself as a living example.


Herald Verinus Lorcan
'''Lifelike Appearance:'''
A necromancer turned lich, Verinus Lorcan oversees the cult’s activities in the southern region of Al-Shekeim. Once a scholar of life and death, Verinus abandoned his studies of natural cycles after witnessing the power of undeath firsthand. He is deeply loyal to Maltherion’s vision and uses his network of spies and informants to recruit mages, scholars, and other individuals with a keen interest in immortality.


Seeker Ilana Thorne
Most cultists who undergo the transition retain their normal appearance. They don't have the rotting flesh or hollow eyes typical of undead. A successful DC 20 Perception or Medicine check is required to detect subtle signs of undeath, such as cold skin or sometimes forgetting to breath.
An influential noblewoman in the Pacedonian court, Ilana Thorne is secretly a Seeker within the cult. Though still alive, she uses her position to sway political figures and commoners alike, promising eternal life and immunity from the gods’ whims. She skillfully manipulates public opinion, turning the upper classes toward the cult’s teachings by promoting it as a new form of aristocratic immortality.
Persuasive Arguments for Conversion


The Cult of the Eternal Veil employs a variety of persuasive tactics to convince mortals to embrace undeath. These arguments vary depending on the target’s social status, fears, or desires, but the central message is always the same: undeath is freedom, immortality, and power.
'''Undeath’s Boon (Minor Downside):'''


1. The Promise of Immortality:
While the undead cultists maintain their physical appearance, they still suffer from some of the weaknesses of undeath. They have resistance to necrotic damage but are vulnerable to radiant damage. In addition, they cannot be healed by conventional healing magic (only necromantic healing can restore them).
"Why waste your short life awaiting the inevitable? Join us, and death need not come for you. Live forever, free of sickness, age, and the frailties of the mortal coil. You will retain your mind, your body, and everything that makes you... you."


2. Power Beyond Life:
'''Psychological Shift (Major Downside):'''
"The gods bind you to a cycle that weakens your potential. In death, you can transcend this. Imagine wielding powers undreamed of, unburdened by your living body. Undeath is not an end but a new beginning—an evolution."
This argument is particularly persuasive to mages, scholars, and the ambitious, as it offers both power and status beyond death.


3. Escape from the Gods’ Judgment:
Over time, these undead cultists experience a slow erosion of their emotions. While they may appear normal at first, they gradually lose the capacity for true joy, empathy, or compassion. This can be role-played by imposing a Charisma saving throw (DC 15) whenever they engage in deeply emotional activities. Failure results in their responses becoming cold, detached, or calculated.
"Why should your soul be subject to the whims of gods, their judgment determining your fate for eternity? We offer you an alternative—a way to escape their grasp. Join us, and you will never have to fear their punishment."


4. Undeath as the Equalizer:
'''Undying Resilience (Upside):'''
"In death, all are equal. You could be a peasant today and a ruler in undeath. No one will question your place when mortality no longer defines power. The Eternal Veil is for all who wish to transcend the mortal hierarchy."
Undead cultists gain advantage on Constitution saving throws against exhaustion, disease, and poison, reflecting their bodies' resistance to decay and frailty. Additionally, they do not age or require food, water, or sleep, though they still must rest to regain spells and other abilities. They can still eat and drink, but as time goes past they require stronger flavours to enjoy them as much. It takes a lot more to get them drunk.
This appeals to those of lower social status who seek equality or upward mobility, especially among disenfranchised groups.


5. The Illusion of Living Undeath:
"You will look as you do now, live as you do now, but without fear of death. You will still feel, experience, and think, just as you did in life—only stronger, only better."
This is often used for convincing those afraid of the monstrous image of undeath, easing their transition by portraying it as a seamless shift from life to eternal life.
Undead Characteristics in Game Terms


The undead created by the cult are unique in that they are designed to be nearly indistinguishable from living beings. These creatures maintain their physical appearance, voice, and even their emotions, making it difficult for outsiders to identify them as undead. However, there are some subtle differences:
'''Necrotic Aura:'''
Though they appear alive, the Undying emit a faint necrotic aura that can be sensed by those attuned to divine or life magic. This makes it difficult to hide their true nature from clerics or paladins.


    Lifelike Appearance:
'''No Healing:'''
    Most cultists who undergo the transition retain their normal appearance. They don't have the rotting flesh or hollow eyes typical of undead. A successful DC 20 Perception or Medicine check is required to detect subtle signs of undeath, such as cold skin or a lack of breath.
Unlike living creatures, the Undying cannot be healed by conventional magic. Healing spells either have no effect or harm them, and they must rely on necromantic rituals or rest to recover from injuries.


    Undeath’s Boon (Minor Downside):
'''Soul Tether:'''
    While the undead cultists maintain their physical appearance, they still suffer from some of the weaknesses of undeath. They have resistance to necrotic damage but are vulnerable to radiant damage. In addition, they cannot be healed by conventional healing magic (only necromantic healing can restore them).
The process binds their souls to Maltherion’s Soulforge, making them vulnerable to his control. They retain free will, but disobeying direct orders from the cult or attempting to leave triggers overwhelming pain or even death.


    Psychological Shift (Major Downside):
'''Lifeless Eyes:'''
    Over time, these undead cultists experience a slow erosion of their emotions. While they may appear normal at first, they gradually lose the capacity for true joy, empathy, or compassion. This can be role-played by imposing a Charisma saving throw (DC 15) whenever they engage in deeply emotional activities. Failure results in their responses becoming cold, detached, or calculated.
Their eyes lose the sparkle of life, becoming cold and glassy. Though this is subtle, those who spend time with them may sense something off.


    Undying Resilience (Upside):
    Undead cultists gain advantage on Constitution saving throws against exhaustion, disease, and poison, reflecting their bodies' resistance to decay and frailty. Additionally, they do not age or require food, water, or sleep, though they still must rest to regain spells and other abilities.


Impact on Society
===Impact on Society====


The Cult of the Eternal Veil is a dangerous threat not just to the Weave, but to the very fabric of society. Their infiltration of political, religious, and social circles allows them to spread their doctrines subtly. As more individuals convert, the line between life and death blurs, creating a world where undeath is viewed not as a curse, but as a desirable state of existence.
The Cult of the Eternal Covenant is a dangerous threat not just to the Weave, but to the very fabric of society. Their infiltration of political, religious, and social circles allows them to spread their doctrines subtly. As more individuals convert, the line between life and death blurs, creating a world where undeath is viewed not as a curse, but as a desirable state of existence.


The eventual goal of the cult is to build a society where undeath is normalized, leading to a world shaped in Maltherion’s vision: where death no longer holds sway over the living, and the gods’ control over the afterlife is broken.
The eventual goal of the cult is to build a society where undeath is normalized, leading to a world shaped in Maltherion’s vision: where death no longer holds sway over the living, and the gods’ control over the afterlife is broken.

Revision as of 10:47, 22 October 2024

Undeath as Salvation: Cult of the Eternal Covenant

The "Cult of the Eternal Covenant" is one of the most widespread and insidious of Maltherion’s undead cults. Operating in secrecy within major cities, remote settlements, and even among influential circles, this cult preaches a doctrine of immortality through undeath, framed as a divine gift to escape the fragility of mortal existence. Their teachings resonate with those who fear death, suffer from illness, or desire power beyond what a mortal lifespan can provide. The cult is structured like a secret society, with cells spread across the world, each led by undead leaders who present themselves as enlightened beings.

Structure of the Eternal Covenant

High Council (The Enlightened Ones)

The Enlightened Ones are actually all wizards who have gone through the process to transition to lichdom and all that it entailes. Following Maltherion's development of the Great Transition process, they have been persuaded to work together to spread this alternative method of increasing the number of undead that can pass as living.

The Covenant Priests (The Redeemers):

Below the High Council are the Covenant Priests, or Redeemers. These are undead "clergy" who serve as spiritual guides for the cult’s followers. They are priests of Durmstang who have gone through the Great Transformation themselves and now manage the process for others. They are charismatic and well-versed in theology, capable of weaving the cult's message into the beliefs of the local population.

The Undying (The Chosen Ones):

These are the cult’s most dedicated followers who have also undergone the Great Transition into undeath. The Undying hold positions of influence within mortal society—nobles, military officers and other key positions — where they spread the cult’s teachings while maintaining their secret. They act as both the enforcers and recruiters of the cult.

The Living Faithful (The Seekers):

The Seekers are the living members of the Eternal Covenant. Many of them are common folk suffering from illness, poverty, or grief, but some are wealthy elites seeking power or eternal youth. Seekers are taught that undeath is the ultimate salvation and are gradually prepared for the transformation. They are initiated through a series of rituals that bind them to the cult, while those most loyal are eventually given the opportunity to “ascend” and become Undying. They are also sworn into secrecy, since of course "the world is not yet ready for them to reveal their new status".

Thralls (The Forgotten):

The lowest tier consists of the Thralls—those who failed the process of becoming Undying or were unwilling sacrifices because they were going to reveal the cult's secrets. They are bound to the cult as mindless or semi-sentient undead servants, often used as guards or shock troops. They serve as a reminder to other cult members of the potential cost of failure, keeping them loyal and fearful of betraying the cult’s ideals.

KEY NPCS

   Mother Elithra - High Council Lich
   Role: Spiritual leader of the Eternal Covenant, former high priestess of Veritas (God of Truth and Justice) before becoming a lich.
   Motivation: She preaches that even the gods are flawed, bound by the same mortal constraints that plague their followers. She claims that the path to salvation is beyond the gods’ control—undeath is the only way to free oneself from divine limitations.
   Appearance: Appears as an older woman, impeccably dressed, her skin pale but flawless. Only those who truly gaze into her eyes notice the cold emptiness that reveals her undead nature.
   Tactics: She uses her former religious status to lure clergy and pious individuals into the cult, convincing them that even the gods have limits.

   Sir Davros - Undying Commander
   Role: Military leader of the cult, former knight of Pacedon who faked his death to join the Eternal Covenant.
   Motivation: Davros seeks to build a legion of undead warriors who cannot die in battle, promising immortality and eternal service to those who follow him.
   Appearance: Appears as a tall, broad-shouldered man with a commanding presence. His armor shines, but those close to him notice his lack of breath and the cold touch of his skin.
   Tactics: He targets soldiers and mercenaries, offering them eternal life on the battlefield and freedom from fear of death.

   Nera Velmora - Redeemer
   Role: A necromancer posing as a healer within a major city. She secretly transforms the terminally ill into undead servants of the cult.
   Motivation: Nera is obsessed with the concept of mercy, believing that allowing someone to die is the ultimate cruelty when eternal life is possible.
   Appearance: Appears young and beautiful, with a gentle smile, but hides her necrotic magic and the fact that her youthful appearance is maintained through undeath.
   Tactics: She targets the sick and desperate, offering them eternal life and freedom from pain if they join the Covenant.

Persuasive Arguments for Conversion

The Cult of the Eternal Covenant employs a variety of persuasive tactics to convince mortals to embrace undeath. These arguments vary depending on the target’s social status, fears, or desires, but the central message is always the same: undeath is freedom, immortality, and power.

Eternal Youth and Power: 

   "Why let the frailties of life define you? Age, illness, death—these are the chains that hold us down. But through undeath, you will remain forever youthful, forever strong. Think of all you can accomplish without the burden of time."
   "Why waste your short life awaiting the inevitable? Join us, and death need not come for you. Live forever, free of sickness, age, and the frailties of the mortal coil. You will retain your mind, your body, and everything that makes you... you."

Freedom from the Gods: 

   "The gods have bound us to a cycle of life and death, trapping our souls in an endless loop of suffering. We offer you a way out—a chance to be free from their grasp, to live beyond their rules. The Eternal Covenant is salvation."
   "The gods bind you to a cycle that weakens your potential. In death, you can transcend this. Imagine wielding powers undreamed of, unburdened by your living body. Undeath is not an end but a new beginning—an evolution."
   "Why should your soul be subject to the whims of gods, their judgment determining your fate for eternity? We offer you an alternative—a way to escape their grasp. Join us, and you will never have to fear their punishment."

Escape from Pain and Suffering: 

   "Life is suffering. Disease, loss, and fear of the unknown plague us all. But undeath is peace. It is the end of pain, the end of uncertainty. Through the Covenant, you will transcend these mortal woes and find true peace."

A Second Chance at Life: 

   "Have you been wronged by fate? Lost loved ones? Failed to achieve your dreams? Undeath offers a second chance—a new life where failure no longer haunts you and death cannot claim you."
   "You will look as you do now, live as you do now, but without fear of death. You will still feel, experience, and think, just as you did in life—only stronger, only better."
   "In death, all are equal. You could be a peasant today and a ruler in undeath. No one will question your place when mortality no longer defines power. The Eternal Veil is for all who wish to transcend the mortal hierarchy."

Game Mechanics

New members of the cult will go through a process to transition to undeath, this process is called the Great Transition

Maltherion’s advances in creating the Undying have resulted in beings that appear nearly indistinguishable from living humans, elves, or other races. However, they come with subtle, but significant pros and cons:

Lifelike Appearance:

Most cultists who undergo the transition retain their normal appearance. They don't have the rotting flesh or hollow eyes typical of undead. A successful DC 20 Perception or Medicine check is required to detect subtle signs of undeath, such as cold skin or sometimes forgetting to breath.

Undeath’s Boon (Minor Downside):

While the undead cultists maintain their physical appearance, they still suffer from some of the weaknesses of undeath. They have resistance to necrotic damage but are vulnerable to radiant damage. In addition, they cannot be healed by conventional healing magic (only necromantic healing can restore them).

Psychological Shift (Major Downside):

Over time, these undead cultists experience a slow erosion of their emotions. While they may appear normal at first, they gradually lose the capacity for true joy, empathy, or compassion. This can be role-played by imposing a Charisma saving throw (DC 15) whenever they engage in deeply emotional activities. Failure results in their responses becoming cold, detached, or calculated.

Undying Resilience (Upside): Undead cultists gain advantage on Constitution saving throws against exhaustion, disease, and poison, reflecting their bodies' resistance to decay and frailty. Additionally, they do not age or require food, water, or sleep, though they still must rest to regain spells and other abilities. They can still eat and drink, but as time goes past they require stronger flavours to enjoy them as much. It takes a lot more to get them drunk.


Necrotic Aura: Though they appear alive, the Undying emit a faint necrotic aura that can be sensed by those attuned to divine or life magic. This makes it difficult to hide their true nature from clerics or paladins.

No Healing: Unlike living creatures, the Undying cannot be healed by conventional magic. Healing spells either have no effect or harm them, and they must rely on necromantic rituals or rest to recover from injuries.

Soul Tether: The process binds their souls to Maltherion’s Soulforge, making them vulnerable to his control. They retain free will, but disobeying direct orders from the cult or attempting to leave triggers overwhelming pain or even death.

Lifeless Eyes: Their eyes lose the sparkle of life, becoming cold and glassy. Though this is subtle, those who spend time with them may sense something off.


Impact on Society=

The Cult of the Eternal Covenant is a dangerous threat not just to the Weave, but to the very fabric of society. Their infiltration of political, religious, and social circles allows them to spread their doctrines subtly. As more individuals convert, the line between life and death blurs, creating a world where undeath is viewed not as a curse, but as a desirable state of existence.

The eventual goal of the cult is to build a society where undeath is normalized, leading to a world shaped in Maltherion’s vision: where death no longer holds sway over the living, and the gods’ control over the afterlife is broken.

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