@SlamuraiYou can introduce the character with the origin of how they came to receive their powers or as having a past in the magical community before taking part in the events at Penrose. You can even have them start as a normal person who happens to be magic-sensitive and sees past the Masquerade, and later receives their powers. Most players have started with established bonds with their Patrons, but opening up by showing how the bond was formed or before they have met is also valid.
I'll be giving this one more week before I'll start the IC, or earlier if the RP player slots end up filled.
The Emergency choice grants two additional combat Perks, for a total of seven.