FRIENDS AND FOES

Pubblicato il 8/4/2026

The Krae, the authority for atomic energy production, looms as a giant on the geopolitical chessboard of the Soviet Union, acting as the epicenter for research and development on the new material within the nuclear power plants. The introduction of eridite has catapulted the agency into an unparalleled position of strength, enabling it to infiltrate the highest circles of the Soviet government, effectively reducing it to a mere puppet in its hands. Within the Krae, a unit of immensely powerful individuals, united by their membership in a secret religious sect, steers the USSR’s fate, casting a shroud of uncertainty and darkness over its future.

The Lysenko Division stands as the Soviet government’s response to the escalating mutant threat, acting as a bastion against this danger. More than just a simple military contingent, it is a specialized army, whose primary strength lies in its “operational core”, an elite group of heroes who have chosen to confront mutants in order to protect the civilian population. With near-total autonomy, the Lysenko Division focuses solely on mutants, leaving other security matters to conventional forces like the police and the military.

The Rassvet rises as a beacon of hope and resistance against the Soviet government’s oppressive policies. Originally an NGO dedicated to supporting victims of the Chernobyl disaster, the Rassvet has turned into a powerful anti-government and revolutionary organization after being outlawed by the State.

Under its wing, it gathers a wide range of individuals—from former criminals to scientists—to enlighten the public about the dangers of eridite and oppose the forces seeking to suppress the truth. Armed struggle and counter-information are its two main pillars.

The Skelets represent a unique community, standing in the gray area between civilization and total isolation. Their groups see eridite as the incarnation of absolute evil, devoting their existence to take it from the government, though they don’t know how to destroy it permanently.

Despite their radical stance, the Skelets are often forced to compromise for survival, serving as guides through the most dangerous and eridite-contaminated areas, like the Exclusion Zone. Unique among all, the Skelets have developed a natural resistance to eridite, along with the manifestation of paranormal powers which, though dangerous, are invaluable tools for their survival.

The Organizatsiya—the world of organized crime—is growing stronger, adapting and thriving in the era of eridite. Broadening its interests in the illegal trade of this material, the Organizatsiya has consolidated its presence throughout Soviet urban areas, where it operates through clans willing to “cooperate” with anyone able to increase the wealth of its members.

The introduction of eridite has sweetened the relationship between the State and organized crime. In exchange for certain services that the government prefers not to handle directly, authorities often show undue leniency or turn a blind eye on illicit activities.

The Organizatsiya has also strengthened its grip by establishing a private militia, the Bashnya, that has made it one of the most feared entities within the metropolis.

The Ruka is a paramilitary entity of mercenaries serving the Krae, structured with strict hierarchies similar to those of the regular army. These soldiers undergo top-tier training and are equipped with cutting-edge military technologies. Recognizable by their black uniforms and Kevlar armor, Ruka members proudly bear the emblem of the militia—a distinguishing mark that instills fear and respect, symbol of a merciless and unstoppable force in the current geopolitical landscape.