Royal Society
A centuries-old secret society hunting the gods to steal their eternal power.
The Royal Society stands as a prestigious and ancient institution dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge regarding the supernatural and the lost history of humanity. Within the Tomb Raider universe, it serves as the primary antagonist force driving much of Lara Croft's early adventures, specifically in her quest to understand the origins of immortality. While outwardly presenting itself as a learned academic body, its true nature is that of a shadowy cabal willing to commit atrocities to secure power for themselves.
Quick Facts
- Primary goal
- Secure supernatural artifacts and achieve immortality
- Key leader
- Walter Leland Croft (Historically)
- Notable member
- Mathias Vogel
- First major appearance
- Tomb Raider: Underworld (Narrative context); Tomb Raider (2013 Game)
- Status
- Active but fractured
- Base of operations
- Various hidden locations and London headquarters
Lore & Background
The Society's history is deeply intertwined with the Croft family. Decades before Lara's own journey, her father, Lord Richard Croft, was a member who eventually turned against them upon discovering their true intentions to weaponize divine power rather than simply study it. This betrayal led to his disappearance and left Lara as the sole heir to a legacy of secrets. The Society views the Crofts not just as rivals but as obstacles that must be removed or manipulated to ensure their grand design comes to fruition.
Reader's Guide
The Royal Society is a clandestine organization that operates beneath the surface of the modern world, driven by an obsession with supernatural artifacts and the promise of eternal life. Their primary goal is to locate and control relics left behind by ancient civilizations or gods, believing these items hold the key to human evolution. Membership consists of wealthy industrialists, rogue academics, and mercenaries who pledge allegiance to the Society's vision over national laws. They are led by a council that operates with absolute secrecy, often manipulating global events to create opportunities for excavation missions in dangerous, remote locations. In the conflict surrounding Lara Croft, the Society acts as a persistent shadow enemy. While they occasionally provide resources or information, their ultimate aim is to use Lara's unique connection to her father's research to unlock secrets that would grant them dominion over life and death itself.
Did You Know?
- The Royal Society was once led by Walter Leland Croft before his mysterious disappearance.
- They are responsible for the initial discovery of many artifacts that Lara later seeks.
- Their influence extends into modern corporate sectors, funding expeditions under false pretenses.
More in Factions & Organizations
Elsewhere in Tomb Raider
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