The Umbral Veil is a cult hidden from the prying eyes of the world and shrouded in secrecy and dark ambitions. Led by the notorious Dr. Horatio Ashcroft, a once-renowned alchemist whose brilliance is only matched by his madness. In his studies, Dr. Ashcroft discovered a way to fuse essence crystals into the bodies of humans, which could alter the very fabric of biology, granting immense strength, resilience, and monstrous forms to those subjected to the procedure. What began as a perverse curiosity quickly spiraled into an obsession, and now Dr. Ashcroft sees himself as a prophet of a new age. 
 
As the mutated abominations grew in number and strength, Dr. Ashcroft’s influence spread and he formed a cult-like following of fellow alchemists and deranged people who worshiped his twisted genius and sought to gain his favor. This group, known as the Umbral Veil, adopted his dark teachings, viewing their mutations as a form of transcendence and the path to ultimate power.