The Dictums of The Hidden Lady

The following is an excerpt from the holy text of the hidden goddess Elustria, the Grimorum Mechanicum...

The Dictum of Differential: The key key to great power in any given machine is mechanical differential. One gear turns the next, which in turn turns the following. Each successive cog adding its mechanical strength to the power of the previous, until the necessary drive is achieved. Those who heed the word of the Iron One, The Hidden Lady, must follow this dictum in all things. Separate your true power from your goal by as many degrees as possible. Never do for yourself what you can have a loyal servant do. Never allow your loyal servant to do what he may have an acquaintance do. Never allow your servant's acquaintance to do what he may hire a mercenary to do.

The Dictum of Redundancy: Even the best schemata should allow for one or more backup mechanisms, as well as an emergency stop. In this way you ensure that even if your machine's primary drive fails, the machine will not fail. An emergency kill switch will ensure that you will not be injured by a failed machine. Take this to heart. Never accept a single means to an end when you may have two. Never satisfy yourself with two when you may have three. Never allow your plans to leave your control. Always be able to terminate your plans at your will.

The Dictum of Housing: Although not necessary to operation, a machine's external plating and housing are important. They protect the machinery from outside corruption. They also protect your machine's design from prying eyes. Never reveal your plans and methods to others. Deflect attempts to see through your methods with a cloak of secrecy. If you are a priest, do not dress as a priest, and do not openly wear your holy symbol. If you are an assassin do not wear your sword openly. When a man asks what options are available to him, only tell him what options you wish him to take. Never reveal what you are capable of, let others believe what they wish of you and fear the unknown.

The Dictum of Magic: All machines require a power source. Steam, animal power, and stored kinetic drives are all acceptable means of propulsion. Steam must be stoked and renewed. Animals must rest. Springs must be wound. Weights must be lifted. Magic is an eternal power source. A small amount of magic may be amplified a thousand fold with your machinations. Always heed the power of magic. Be wary of those who wield it. Hoard it for yourself. Build your plans with its power in mind.