~CLANS~
The folowing Seven clans are the body and soul of the Camarilla. They are by no means the only vampire clans in existence; however, these seven are the only clans that actively support the Camarilla and are thus part of the normal life and society of the Kindred. ~~
Clan listing
The Brujah can trace their roots back to ancient Babylon, and the clay tablet
libraries of the first scholars. They were the lovers and guardians of knowledge,
and the founder of their line was the inventor of written language. However, in their
quest for freedom, they slew their founder and were banished from the First City. Today
the Brujah are scorned as riffraff who have lost their heritage and are without pride.
For over a millennnium they have been the rebels among the Knidred, forever questioning
and testing the Traditions.
The clan is very poorly organized; its members meet only irregularly, and share
little in common besides their love of rebellion. They are among the only supporters
of the anarchs, and aiding them is one of the only matters upon which they ever agree.
They are often underestimated, as much by themselves as anyone.
Clan listing
Clan Gangrel is said to be the only clan whose founder is still involved in and concerned with the welfare of her progeny. Her concern for them is matched only by her concern for her mortal descendants--the Gypsies. Though many Antediluvians use their progeny as pawns in the Jyhad,the Gangrel pride themselves on their freedom from such manipulation. There is a close bond between the clan and the Gypsies. In recent years, as Gehanna approaches, their interaction has been considerable.
Clan listing
The history of the Malkavian clan is completely shrouded in the past. The Malkavians themselves have many tales about their origin, but even they do not believe most of them. A favored legend among the Kindred is that the founder of the house was cursed by Caine, and his descendants have lived with the madness since. The Malkavians have always existed on the periphery of the vampire culture, watching, but never truly involving themselves in it. Long ago, before the curse and the madness, their founder was said to be the greatest among the third generation. Now it is his machinations that keep the weakest of those involved in the jyhad "alive".
Clan listing
It is the unfortunate plight of the members of this clan to display the Beast within their hearts upon their countenances. Though their founder was known for his rabid predilections and monstrous impulses, the Nosferatu of today are known for being cool-headed. Though they tend to choose only the most drpraved individuals as progeny, somehow the members of this clan seem to retain their sanity better than most vampires.
The founder is said to have been a man of regal visage who incurred the wrath of Caine for his barbaric activities and was thereby cursed with the face of a hag. The savagery of his soul is reflected upon his face and that of all his progeny.
Of course, many clans have legends in which an all-powerful Caine curses their founder just as God cursed Caine. It is not likely that all of these stories are true, but some, such as this, might be. Presently, the Nosferatu clan is estranged from their founder, and do not serve him--at least to their knowledge.
Clan listing
Thoughout history, the Toreador have been involved in the arts. This tradition is said to have begun with the first progeny of the founder, a pair of beautiful and artistically gifted twins. Their sire was a leader of the cabal of third generation vampires who slew their own sires. Though ruthless, he was very doting upon his progeny, proffering them far more independence than any other fourth generation vampires were given. They used their freedom to nurture the full panorama of the arts, and their sire protected them though war and famine. To this day, the Toreador claim that they are watched over by Arikel, their founder. Though the Toreador are not as formally organized as some other clans, they are furiously loyal to one another and to the art they claim to serve.
Clan listing
The Tremere are unique and no other clan has a history as rich, yet as short, as theirs. Long ago, there were others of their line who were not warlocks, nor did the clan have mastery over the discipline of Thaumaturgy. Less than 1.000 years ago, a metamorphosis occurred. Deep in the Romanian mountains, in the district known as Transylvania, a group of magi from an ancient order were Embraced by a foolich Clan leader. Combining their new powers with their ancient lore, the magi were quickly able to assume control of the clan. They Embraced many others from their arcane order, and drank the blood of all the elders of their clan. It is even hinted that the most powerful among them managed to hunt down and slay the founder of the line. The Tremere have adopted the most rigid hierarchical system among all the clans, and this has allowed them to achieve great power within Kindred society. The other clans distrust the Tremere, both out of fear and a sense that something is not quite right with them. The political center of the Tremere clan is in Vienna.
Clan listing
The Venture suspect their founder has been slain by one of the Brujah clan. Though this is a blow to their pride, it has given them some distance and protection from the chaos and strife of the Jyhad. Without the intrigues and demands of a god-like founder, the Ventrue have achieved a remarkable independence from the Antediluvians. They do not know how much truth is contained in this legend, but it is nonetheless one of the basic tenets of their clan, no matter how much other Kindred scoff at it.
Much of the respect accorded to the Ventrue is due to the independence they are perceived to have from the Antediluvians. It is out of pride for this respect they are given that they conceal their persecution of the Brujah clan. More princes and Justicars come from the Ventrue clan than fromm any other; they are clearly the leaders of the Camarilla. The Ventrue have regular clan meetings in various parts of the world, including a Grand Council in London every seven years.
Clan listing
~SECTS~
Over the past few centuries groups known as sects have appeared among Kindred society. Many ancients deride the existence and concept of sects as "...modern foolishness. The blood is all that matters," but still the power and influence of these organizations grow. Well over half of the Kindred in existence belong to one sect or another; the rest either maintain their independence or are attached exclusevely to their bloodlines. The largest and most dominant sect is the Camarilla, though the smaller Sabbat contends with it on every front. Though the Inconnu claim they are not a sect, they appear to have some sort fo organization and stay well clear of the other sects. ~~
Sect listing
CAMARILLA
The Camarilla is the largest single sect of vampires as well as the most open; theoretically any vampire may claim membership, regarless of linieage. In fact, the Camarilla assumes that all vampires are members of their sect -- whether they want to be or not. The founders of the sect view it as the Great Society of undead, and take offense at any suggestion otherwise.
The Camarilla's primary concern is the maintenance and preservation of the Masquerade. The sect was organized in the 14th century in response to the growing influence of the Inquisition. Historically, there have been many attempts by the leaders of the Camarilla to assert more authority over other aspects of vampiric existence. Each time, the attempt has failed in a wave of bloodshed. The princes do not brook interference into what they consider to be their historical rights and privileges, nor do the Methuselahs desire a competitor who could thwart their aims. Therefore, the Camarilla remains a divided sect of only moderate influence. The elders who control it use it as yet another means to oppress and manipulate the anarchs.
It is thought the Ventrue played a primary role in bringing together the seven founding clans of the Camarilla. Their efforts and imagination certainly lie behind its improbable origin. Though the Camarilla holds itself open to all bloodlines, those that choose to participate represent only slightly more than half of the known clans. Only seven of the 13 clans were among its founders, and only these clans regularly attend meetings of the Inner Circle. Individuals from other clans may be a part of the Camarilla, but no other clan as a whole is.
The Camarilla does not openly recognize the existence of the Antediluvians. Statements about them are publicly derided. As far as the Camarilla is concerned, they are but myths.
CONCLAVE:
Conclaves are important and potentially dangerous political events in the Camarilla. Open to any and all, they are the means through which the Camarilla functions as a sect. Much care is taken to insure the secrecy of the Conclave site before the meeting as well as its physical security while the meeting is in progress; an enemy of the Camarilla could take such an event as an opportunity for mass assassination. The Conclave may last anywhere from a few hours to many weeks.
Usually, Conclaves are only called when they are needed and are held in the geographic region most concerned with the problem at hand. Tradition holds that Conclaves may only be called by a Justicar. Those who gather to witness a Conclave are part of what is known as an Assembly. Members of the Assembly have the right to address the Conclave if supported by at least two members of the Conclave. Each vampire who attends the Conclave gets one vote -- a Justicar serves as chairman.
The primary function of the Conclave is to make recommendations on matters brought before it. Any Kindred may bring a matter before the Conclave, and most concern the adjudication of grievances between Kindred. Often complaints against princes are brought up at Conclaves, as are petitions by princes to deal especially harshly with the anarchs in a city. Essentially, any action that would be considered a breach of tradition must be discussed and agreed upon by a Conclave in order to avoid future punishment by the Camarilla.
The Conclave interprets the Six Traditions and, in some instances, may even establish new ones. It may also call Blood Hunts, even against princes, who are otherwise safe from them. In times past, Conclaves have been convened for the sole purpose of removing a prince from power. The Camarilla has always vigorously maintained its right to depose the rulers of the cities. The Justicars themselves do not have this power, though they may call a Conclave to achieve this end.
Decisions made by the Conclave may be challenged by undergoing an ordeal. This can be nearly any sort of exacting trial, mission or quest, which is given by the Conclave to test the suspect. Such ordeals may last only a minute or may take many years, and if not completed satisfactorily, the officiating Justicar is free to assign any penalty. If the crime is considered too great to allow the vampire to complete an ordeal, the offending Kindred may face a challenge by one of her accusers. The two antagonists battle one another in ritual combat. This may be a duel fought without weapons but with each opponent blindfolded, or a contest where each sucks the other's blood untill one of the two is extinguished.
There is usually something of a population explosion after a Conclave, as princes reward those who voted in their favor by allowing them to produce progeny. Many times an orgy of destruction counterbalances this growth as the losers pay the ultimate price.
Conclaves can only be called by a Justicar, who may do so at any time. However, most Justicars have arranged for regular Conclaves to be held at which all Kindred are welcome. For instance, every three years a Conclave meets in Niw Orleans; this Conclave is overseen by Xaviar, a Justicar of Clan Gangrel.
THE INNER CIRCLE:
Every 13 years there is a meeting of the Elders of each clan. This is the true hub of the Camarilla. Compared to this assembly, all other Conclaves are but puppet shows. The Inner Circle always meets in Venice, just it has done for the past 500 years.
Each bloodline is allowed one representative to sit on the Inner Circle. Only this individual may vote, though all those who attend may speak. The eldest member of each clan present places the vote for that clan. It is a majority of age. This is a primary reason why the anarchs are so frustrated.
The primary function of the Inner Circle is to appoint the Justicars, the judges of the sect. One Justicar is chosen from each of the seven clans. They act of their own accord, but are required to take the decisions of the Inner Circle under consideration. By decree of the Inner Circle, Justicars hold the power to deal with members of the Camarilla who transgress the Traditions. The seven Justicars hold the true power in the Camarilla.
The appointment of a Justicar is a long, drawn-out political battle, for while the major bloodlines would each like to select the representative of their choice, it is difficult to obtain the majority needed. The losers in the intrigue end up with a Justicar of young years or weak powers who will be ignored for 13 years. Thus, those finally appointed tend to be compromise candidates or chosen from the lower rungs of a line. Sometimes, even obsure Kindred are chosen by elders who believe they will be easy to maniplate once appointed.
JUSTICARS:
It is at first difficult to grasp the relationship of the Conclave and the Justicar. The Conclave is forbidden by tradition to pass any judgement directly upon any member of the Camarilla. This tradition limits the possibility of any abouse of power. The Conclave's only avenue of control lies in these judges, whom they appoint to pass sentence for them.
Justicars have the only true authority, which they hold over all the Camarilla, and indeed all Kindred,
except those who sit on the Inner Circle.
They have the ultimate decisionmaking and adjudiction power over matters involving violation of the Six Traditions. No members of the Camarilla is considered above them in this area. If one of the Blood is found to have violated the Traditions, it is a Justicar who decides the punishment. There are no guidelines concerning the punishment; it is left to the discretion of each Justicar. Their decisions are often harsh. They are supposed to hold a Conclave each time they wish to pass judgement, but over the years the Justicars have assumed more and more power and no longer feel the need to do so. Justicars can call a Conclave at any time, either to confirm a ruling or to make a momentous decision a Justicar does not care to make himself.
The decision or action of a Justicar can only be challenged by another Justicar. If a major point of contention arises between Justicars, a Conclave is held where the Justicars come together and resove the dispute. The resolution usually comes in the form of a vote, but sometimes, depending on the dispute, personal challenges can arise.
Many elders resent the authority of the Justicars, and some among them are very outspoken in their opposition. Most accept it, however, for fear of opposing the Justicars, who are frequently of considerable age.
Justicars often have coteries of other vampires who do their bidding; these Kindred are known as Archons. These are often the brood of the Justicar and are always willingly Blood Bound to them. They enforce the Justicars' will and report breaches of the Traditions. The Archons are the eyes and ears of the Justicars.
Sect listing
SABBAT
Known to many as the Black Hand, the Sabbat is rumored to have evolved from a medieval death cult. Little of its nature has changed since then. It is the largest sect next to the Camarilla, and is aggressively attempting to increase its domain.
The Black Hand rules through fear, hatred, anger and physical violence. In North America, it holds undisputed control over Detroit, Toronto, Montreal, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Portland, and is close to gaining supremacy in Boston and Baltimore. Until recently, Miami was also under Sabbat control, but recent events have caused a swing in the power balace there.
The Sabbat is organized in units known as "packs" which are strongly loyal to one another, feeding and traveling as one group. Indeed, in the Camarilla, it has become a derogatory term to call a coterie a "pack".
Members of the Sabbat come from many different bloodlines, though to clans dominate the organization: the Lasombra and Tzimisces. Though it may be possible to join the Sabbat, almost all members are created. The Black Hand requires strict devotion and adherence to the will of the group.
The Sabbat initiation procedure is designed to destroy any of the vestigial will in a new vampire. Initiates are slain, slowly and painfully, and then given the Blood. This blood doesn't come from one member of the Sabbat, but from as many as are present at the initiation, combined into a chalice. Once the Initiate has been given the Blood, he is buried alive, and must crawl out in order to live. Those who do not spend eternity buried under the earth. The process of digging oneself from a grave tears the Initiate's humanity from him and opens him to the subjugation and brainwashing of the Sabbat.
Once the Initiate breaks free, he is Blood Bound to the pack that Embraced him. In a strange ritual, which occurs over two more nights, the Initiate is given more blood.
The Black Hand is concerned solely with power in all its forms. It is actively engaged in diablerie and has a fanatical opposition to life and its trappings. The Sabbat views mortals as lesser beasts to be dominated and used as the need requires. The Sabbat worships at the places of the dead -- cemeteries, tombs and charnel houses. The members of the Sabbat understand themselves to be undead, and behave accordingly. Any who oppose them are burnt; indeed, the Sabbat packs seem to have a fasicination with fire, though they are no more immune to it than any other Kindred.
The members of the Sabbat revel in being vampires and living out hteir instincts. They find other Kindred contemptible because they try so hard to retain their humanity. For the Sabbat, this is the greatest blasphemy.
The Sabbat often sends packs into cities held by the Camarilla, either to scout out the opposition or to hunt for those who have fled from the covens. Camarilla politics are invariably complicated by the presence of Sabbat Kindred.
The Sabbat is said to engage in a strange sort of diablerie, wherein its members ritually butcher the elders of their kind so that stronger, more aggressive and younger Kindred may take their place. However, like so much else spoken of among Kindred outside the Sabbat, this is unconfirmed. The princes of the major cities worldwide would give much to gain hard facts about the workings of the Sabbat. All of them fear the danger of its steady growth.
In the end, nothing certain can be said of the Sabbat. Indeed, all that the Camarilla believes about it could be false, roumors spread by Antediluvians who wish the two sects to fight. It is unlikely, but all to possible.
Sect listing
INCONNU
"Inconnu" is the term used to describe those vampires who have distanced themselves from the others fo their kind. It is not so much a sect as it is a classification. The Inconnu are old, powerful, and as such have little need, and less desire, for the company of their brethren. They tend to live in the wild among the animals and sleep within the earth when the sun is in the sky. (It is unknown how they manage to live in peace with the shape-changers who rule the wild areas.) Certain Inconnu still live within the cities, and may even be interested in the Jyhad, but by the rules of their sect may not become involved in it. Some have attended Camarilla Conclave meetings, creating great awe in the other Kindred. The Inconnu, like all Kindred, are always invited.
Most of the Inconnu have grown so lod that they may sleep for months or years before awakening. They are like the Antediluvians in that they are no longer completely of this world, but have grown apart from it. Most of them are several millennia old and are the most powerful vampires most Kindred will ever encounter.
Many of the INconnu are members of the fourth and fifth generations who were at one point or another involved in the Jyhad. They have won their places in the hierarchy of Kindred by dint of age or through the devouring of their own elders. They have gone into hiding out of fear for their existence and out of distasted for the modern world. They believe that only by removing themselves from the world can they escape the Jyhad. Despite the best efforts of the sect, some of its members still vecome involved in the Jyhad. As a whole, the Inconnu punish all of their order who continue to take part in the Jyhad or meddle in the affairs of lesser Kindred. This is their only law. A sizable minority of the INconnu have actually achieved Golconda. This may explain their distaste of the Jyhad and their rational approach to many problems among the Kindred.
The Inconnu will allow no Kindred to harm or injure any of it members, no matter what those members have done. All rights to punishment are reserved solely for themselves, but is very difficult to contact them to petition for such. In the end, the INconnu are a most enigmatic and mysterious sect. Their organization and priorities are unknown, if indeed it can even be said that they have such.
Sect listing
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~~EXCERPS FROM THE WHITE WOLF BOOK OF THE MASQUERADE~~