Duchagne
“Why do you cry, my lovely? If you would only surrender your flesh to me, lay bare your soul to my caress. If you would only do this, I can set you free.“
In tales, vampires are often depicted as rapacious creatures of unmatched appetite. They appear from the shadows, turning the lives of hapless mortals into waking nightmares of blood and sorrow. Often, stories of decadent aristocracy parallel these portrayals of the undead. Bored nobility charm some naïve peasant, inviting him into the world of the languid halls of power, only to turn the poor worker’s life into a game. In the languorous Duchagne bloodline, the two images have merged, spawning a creature driven as much by a never-ending hunger as by a deep-seated need for new sensations.
Among the bourgeoisie of 1765 France, few could hold the fickle attention of indolent aristocracy such as the Vicomte and Vicomtesse du Chagne. Though not landowners, the du Chagne were competent merchants and excellent manipulators. Their lavish parties consistently pushed the boundaries between risqué and obscene, delighting the court of King Louis XV and his successor.
The Vicomte, Albaric, and his wife, Eglatina, had voracious appetites that would have put even Caligula to shame. The parties they held were always scandalous affairs: they often brought in prostitutes from nearby cities, each paid handsomely for her service and silence. There, they suffered the sadistic vices of the Vicomte, Vicomtesse and their guests. When not playing hosts to debauchery, the du Chagnes toyed with the affections of naïve youths in the Court, tempting them with deviant pleasures and empty promises of power and wealth. For husband and wife, the hunt was the only interest; the outcome unimportant.
A Daeva, attracted to their folly, found most of these games less than innovative in comparison to those of the Kindred. But the depraved couple themselves were fascinating to him, and he believed they had great potential. He decided he would sculpt the two into social predators worthy of Kindred society. In the midst of an arranged party for his friends, the Daeva took the pair and introduced them to their Requiems. The two reveled in the Danse Macabre, diving into the courtly intrigues as though born to it.
Their sire instructed them in the les arts Licencieux, showing them how to use the Vitae to alter the emotions of their victims. The trio was inseparable, holding grand masques for mortal and Kindred guests alike. As the pair’s newfound abilities grew, the parties became lavish spectacles, often escalating into chaotic orgies of blood and pain. This unmitigated lust for sensation, however, led to their downfall. The three were so consumed in their own games of manipulation and self-gratification that they lost track of the troubles brewing around them.
The three remained blissfully ignorant for several decades as problems plagued the social structure of France. As insurgents assaulted the Tuileries, the Vicomte and his wife held a masque. When the Assembly suspended the monarchy with the support of the Jacobins, the three dallied with a family of the nouveaux riches. Then, as the sun was low in the Parisian sky, the revolution came with violence and voices raised in anger. Weakened from the sleep of the day, the vampires were no match for the mob. The Vicomte and his sire met Final Death, while only Eglatina survived, though barely. Wounded and in shock as her lavish world crumbled into ash, the Vicomtesse retreated into the numbing grasp of Torpor.
Several decades later, she emerged from the death-like sleep and sought relief from the nightmares of Torpor that plagued her. She took in several mortal retainers, hoping to use them to satisfy her debased appetites and to salve her grief. Strangely, the old methods failed to elicit any joy in her dead heart. Even more bizarrely, the loss of the Vicomte and her sire twisted her ministrations, forcing the protégées (as she preferred to call her subjects) to share her sadness and regret, feeling it as their own. Most broke under the mixture of physical and psychological torment, but a small handful flourished. No matter what she levied against their flesh and minds, these servants begged for more. Impressed, she eventually Embraced them, training them in the ways of the Vitae as she had been trained. These protégées took on the title of Les Élèves du Chagne, or more simply, the Duchagne.
Or so goes the story as told by Eglatina. Many of her descendants, however, suspect that either purposeful deception or torpor-twisted memories have altered the truth. In the carefully manicured salons of the Duchagne, broodmates exchange whispered speculation. Some believe that the unnamed sire was the true origin of the bloodline’s prized ability to manipulate the senses of others. They claim that Eglatina killed her own sire and husband out of a selfish desire to be in total control.
Others believe that Albaric was actually killed prior to the Vicomtesse’s Embrace, and that her own desire twisted her mind in Torpor, creating false memories of a fantasy life. The bloodline’s ability to twist Perception, they say, is a direct extension of Eglatina’s wishful desire to change the truth. And what of the mysterious Daeva who sired her? Why has she never spoken his name? Has she forgotten, or does she merely choose not to remember?
Over the last couple of centuries, members of the bloodline have changed little from the sybaritic lifestyle of the du Chagne, even if they are a bit more adapted to modern lifestyles. It is also worth noting that the majority have taken a far more active role in Kindred society, adding their unique talents as marketable skills to their covenant of choice.
Because of the power wielded by members of this bloodline, outsiders are often leery of interaction. Rumors abound about just what the Bacchantes are capable of doing, and few wish to find out from personal experience. Indeed, the grand balls held by the bloodline on special occasions are often more than most care to see. These gatherings are used by members to parade their latest protégées, or to display particularly clever uses of the bloodline’s ability to manipulate the senses. These parties can be as formal as the standard high school prom or as surreal as the most twisted carnival.
However, in spite of their shared induction experiences, there is little that truly unifies members of the bloodline any more. Often it is only their rapid loss of empathy for others that connects two Duchagne. Sensations are quick to please, and discarded even more quickly. Within a few short years, a Duchagne vampire finds that it takes more and more depraved acts to stir any sense of pleasure in her existence, until only the most base and cruel indulgence manages to bring a weary smile to her pallid face. The reason for this desensitizing is as much grist for the rumor mill of the bloodline as their origin.
Among the bourgeoisie of 1765 France, few could hold the fickle attention of indolent aristocracy such as the Vicomte and Vicomtesse du Chagne. Though not landowners, the du Chagne were competent merchants and excellent manipulators. Their lavish parties consistently pushed the boundaries between risqué and obscene, delighting the court of King Louis XV and his successor.
The Vicomte, Albaric, and his wife, Eglatina, had voracious appetites that would have put even Caligula to shame. The parties they held were always scandalous affairs: they often brought in prostitutes from nearby cities, each paid handsomely for her service and silence. There, they suffered the sadistic vices of the Vicomte, Vicomtesse and their guests. When not playing hosts to debauchery, the du Chagnes toyed with the affections of naïve youths in the Court, tempting them with deviant pleasures and empty promises of power and wealth. For husband and wife, the hunt was the only interest; the outcome unimportant.
A Daeva, attracted to their folly, found most of these games less than innovative in comparison to those of the Kindred. But the depraved couple themselves were fascinating to him, and he believed they had great potential. He decided he would sculpt the two into social predators worthy of Kindred society. In the midst of an arranged party for his friends, the Daeva took the pair and introduced them to their Requiems. The two reveled in the Danse Macabre, diving into the courtly intrigues as though born to it.
Their sire instructed them in the les arts Licencieux, showing them how to use the Vitae to alter the emotions of their victims. The trio was inseparable, holding grand masques for mortal and Kindred guests alike. As the pair’s newfound abilities grew, the parties became lavish spectacles, often escalating into chaotic orgies of blood and pain. This unmitigated lust for sensation, however, led to their downfall. The three were so consumed in their own games of manipulation and self-gratification that they lost track of the troubles brewing around them.
The three remained blissfully ignorant for several decades as problems plagued the social structure of France. As insurgents assaulted the Tuileries, the Vicomte and his wife held a masque. When the Assembly suspended the monarchy with the support of the Jacobins, the three dallied with a family of the nouveaux riches. Then, as the sun was low in the Parisian sky, the revolution came with violence and voices raised in anger. Weakened from the sleep of the day, the vampires were no match for the mob. The Vicomte and his sire met Final Death, while only Eglatina survived, though barely. Wounded and in shock as her lavish world crumbled into ash, the Vicomtesse retreated into the numbing grasp of Torpor.
Several decades later, she emerged from the death-like sleep and sought relief from the nightmares of Torpor that plagued her. She took in several mortal retainers, hoping to use them to satisfy her debased appetites and to salve her grief. Strangely, the old methods failed to elicit any joy in her dead heart. Even more bizarrely, the loss of the Vicomte and her sire twisted her ministrations, forcing the protégées (as she preferred to call her subjects) to share her sadness and regret, feeling it as their own. Most broke under the mixture of physical and psychological torment, but a small handful flourished. No matter what she levied against their flesh and minds, these servants begged for more. Impressed, she eventually Embraced them, training them in the ways of the Vitae as she had been trained. These protégées took on the title of Les Élèves du Chagne, or more simply, the Duchagne.
Or so goes the story as told by Eglatina. Many of her descendants, however, suspect that either purposeful deception or torpor-twisted memories have altered the truth. In the carefully manicured salons of the Duchagne, broodmates exchange whispered speculation. Some believe that the unnamed sire was the true origin of the bloodline’s prized ability to manipulate the senses of others. They claim that Eglatina killed her own sire and husband out of a selfish desire to be in total control.
Others believe that Albaric was actually killed prior to the Vicomtesse’s Embrace, and that her own desire twisted her mind in Torpor, creating false memories of a fantasy life. The bloodline’s ability to twist Perception, they say, is a direct extension of Eglatina’s wishful desire to change the truth. And what of the mysterious Daeva who sired her? Why has she never spoken his name? Has she forgotten, or does she merely choose not to remember?
Over the last couple of centuries, members of the bloodline have changed little from the sybaritic lifestyle of the du Chagne, even if they are a bit more adapted to modern lifestyles. It is also worth noting that the majority have taken a far more active role in Kindred society, adding their unique talents as marketable skills to their covenant of choice.
Because of the power wielded by members of this bloodline, outsiders are often leery of interaction. Rumors abound about just what the Bacchantes are capable of doing, and few wish to find out from personal experience. Indeed, the grand balls held by the bloodline on special occasions are often more than most care to see. These gatherings are used by members to parade their latest protégées, or to display particularly clever uses of the bloodline’s ability to manipulate the senses. These parties can be as formal as the standard high school prom or as surreal as the most twisted carnival.
However, in spite of their shared induction experiences, there is little that truly unifies members of the bloodline any more. Often it is only their rapid loss of empathy for others that connects two Duchagne. Sensations are quick to please, and discarded even more quickly. Within a few short years, a Duchagne vampire finds that it takes more and more depraved acts to stir any sense of pleasure in her existence, until only the most base and cruel indulgence manages to bring a weary smile to her pallid face. The reason for this desensitizing is as much grist for the rumor mill of the bloodline as their origin.
Culture
Culture and cultural heritage
Background: The predominant number of Duchagne originated from the ranks of protégées with which the members surround themselves. Prospects are often watched for months before being taken. A few never even enter their possible sire’s Haven, but are tested from a distance, their every action judged. There is no true measure to gauge a protégée’s worth as a member save that which the vampire decides. Those who survive their patron’s perverse affections and manage to show an enthusiasm for said treatment are desirable candidates for the Embrace. Those who fail remain the target of the Duchagne’s attentions. That is, until the vampire tires of them, and tire the Duchagne quickly do. Duchagne rarely use the Blood Oath, certainly not on a protégée. The student’s mind must be clear of foreign influences. Never does a protégée come from the blood addicted.
Induction of Daeva into the bloodline has rarely occurred. Indeed, the majority of this bloodline has never known anything other than the intimate relationship between sire and childe, and few even realize that they are anything but Duchagne. If a Bacchante found a Daeva with great promise, that Daeva might be taken into the bloodline, but the Daeva would have to be willing to undergo the same treatment that mortal protégées do.
About this time, France’s Restoration began to falter. Unrest once again began to rear its head among the masses as the economy continued to tumble. Fearing the worst, Eglatina was quick to act this time. She made arrangements for travel to the British Isles, eventually making a place for herself in the antiquated Kindred Court of London.
Here the Vicomtesse encountered a minor lord named William Dorchester. In this stately landowner, she found the force of personality that she had longed for in a companion. Though he appeared cultured and well spoken in public, in private Lord Dorchester needed little prompting to engage in his vices.
Eglatina took the lusty noble under her wing; slowly, she introduced him to the world she had existed in for almost a half-century. She subtly pushed Dorchester to greater depths of depravity, using her abilities to alter his perceptions of their acts. Pleased with his progress, she pledged to make the man into her new Vicomte. With the instatement of Louis-Philippe as king of France and the apparent return of stability, Eglatina invited Lord Dorchester back to her Bordeaux home.
She introduced him to Kindred society during a lavish fete thrown for her return home. The party quickly descended into a bacchanal of prodigious violence and indulgence. Influenced by the Vicomtesse, Lord Dorchester eagerly joined the revelry. On that night, Eglatina Embraced William.
Though new to the Blood, William proved to be a shrewd member of Kindred society, manipulating the tensions between his fellow vampires to gain favors for himself and his ‘wife.’ His grasp of Licencieux also flowered quickly, as did his innovation in its use. Yet little seemed to hold his interest for long. Rapidly, more and more vicious or exotic jaunts were needed to stir his interest.
Tensions mounted between the two, and they both sought solace in Embracing new childer. The vitriol displayed by the new Vicomte and Vicomtesse manifested mostly in biting criticisms and backhanded compliments. It was not long before the Vicomtesse and her new Vicomte realized what was soon to follow.
On a cold December evening in 1852, the two left their Parisian home for a night of hunting, though they went followed separate routes. By the time the cold winter sun began to lighten the horizon, only Eglatina had returned. The Vicomte never returned, and his childer likewise disappeared.
By the late 1860s, unrest grew across Europe. War between France and Prussia brought more anguish to a population already suffering from economic hardships and numerous government changes. The Duchagne had already intertwined themselves throughout many Kindred strongholds within the mid-continent, and Eglatina no longer cared much for the changes in the brief lives of the kine or their political problems. Resolutely, she maintained her residence even through the hellish siege of Paris.
Yet, her stagnation was engendering a dissatisfaction among her own descendants. The loudest voice within the salons of the Duchagne was that of Anastasia Halstead, a neonate recently made sans entrave. She argued to her broodmates that the bloodline needed to cease wasting their nights as petty entertainers for archaic feudal lords. With their powers, they could change the very society of the Kindred, and create a new order. Many considered her statements to be youthful folly, though a few seemed intrigued, if only as a means of diversion.
Eglatina, however, took notice of Anastasia’s words The Vicomtesse had heard these same cries from the disgruntled mortals every time unrest swept through the world. Indeed, there were already cells of Kindred threatening the same change across Europe. The Vicomtesse had little doubt that these so-called Carthians were in some way influencing her great-grandchilde. The bitterness of the loss of her sire and beloved Albaric spurred her into action. The matriarch declared Anastasia a dissident threat to the Duchagne, and slew her.
Most of the family was cruelly entertained by the neonate’s destruction, but, among many of the newly Embraced protégées and sans entrave, hushed criticism arose. Eglatina actually encouraged the rebellion she sought to stave off.
From 1867 to 1875, the Duchagne waged war upon themselves. None of the Duchagne on either side joined The Carthian Movement, but many of the elder members of the line accused their childer and grandchilder of sympathizing with the “insurrectionists.” Battles raged between Duchagne kin, and many were petulantly destroyed. The members of the line who survived refer to these battles collectively as “The Nights of Sorrow ,” remembering them with sad embarrassment.
The violent rages of the bloodline quelled almost as quickly as they had been stoked, and by the dawn of the 20th century, the Duchagne had returned to their seemingly jaded complacency. Even as two wars enveloped the world, the Bacchantes continued unaffected, although the brutal constructs of the mortal world certainly held their attention. By the early 1930s, the technology for international flight allowed the bloodline to spread itself across the world, most willing to brave the terrible risk just to find themselves in a new place. The exotic locales and sights enthralled the chilled hearts of the Duchagne and only seemed to push them faster than ever toward the depths of depravity. Like children in a candy store, members threw themselves into a world of foreign delights, seemingly wanting to drown themselves in sensation.
On the night of the new millennium, December 31, 1999, Eglatina threw a great fete for herself and all her kin in Paris. Those who attended said that she seemed uncharacteristically tired throughout, and impatient for the ringing of the New Year. Then, as the bells finally tolled, she simply rose from her seat, strode to the doors and left without a word.
That very night, several of her childer came calling at her lavish, palatial abode. Inside, they discovered the home in a mess. Furniture had been smashed across the marble floors, and the bloody corpses of her protégées had already begun the putrefaction of death. The only living thing in the house was one of the Vicomtesse’s nearly starved Ghouls, who was chained in her sleeping chambers, weeping piteously.
The bloodline was left floundering without their matriarch. Neither word nor sight of the Vicomtesse has risen since, though rumors come up now and again.
Bereft of their founder, most members of the bloodline continue on as they always have. Though the mystery of her disappearance spurs many nights of discourse in salons, younger Duchagne rarely seem concerned with the Vicomtesse’s absence. They busy themselves with affairs of local politics and furthering their own power. Elder Duchagne, on the other hand, do ponder this mystery, for some fear that Eglatina’s decline and disappearance can’t possibly be as simple as they seem.
The choice to become a Mentor, and possible future sire, is as important to the Duchagne as it is to most Kindred, and not taken lightly. This is no attempt at a cheap thrill, or search for a subject to unleash petty cruelty upon. The vampire’s choice of protégée must be someone worthy of being an addition to the family. Thus, the esclavagiste may spend years searching for the protégée who exhibits the traits the esclavagiste desires. She may even go through several such candidates before settling upon one.
Elder Duchagne weary of crude and visceral ordeals fairly quickly, and seek a more complex and subtle approach. Working from a distance, they manipulate the lives of their protégées. Caresses by unseen hands, moments of sensory loss or even more tangible effects of job loss or diminished Resources all become the tools of the esclavagiste’s handiwork. A few cunning Bacchantes go after those around the protégée, driving them to the verge of madness. With judicious use of Disciplines, the vampire may even ensure that the protégée gradually grows to anticipate the challenges placed before him.
Once the protégée has shown a satisfactory degree of progress toward the goal of the esclavagiste, a fete is planned in the kine’s honor. Close members of the bloodline are invited to this lavish affair where the protégée is introduced to his prospective family. For many potentials, this is the first time they ever come face-to-face with the orchestrator of their ordeals. This bloody party is the final test for the protégée. Should he give into the bacchanal around him, the esclavagiste draws him into the Requiem.
After the Embrace, the dynamics of the relationship change dramatically. The protégée is no longer subjected to trial after trial, but becomes a Companion to his sire. For a brief while, the sire lives vicariously through her childe, seeing once again the pleasures in existence that she has forgotten. The protégée still remains under the watchful eye of his esclavagiste during this time, as she trains him not only in the ways of Kindred society but also in the powers within his Blood. As soon as the fledgling is able to master the basics of Licencieux, he is declared sans entrave, or unchained, and is considered a fully independent member of the bloodline.
The Duchagne are often known in Kindred society for the profligate parties they host. These bacchanals push the boundaries of even the most liberal vampire’s bloodlust, and toe the line of decency many elders pretend to uphold. Yet, not all gatherings are equal in their extent or purpose.
A majority of social meetings held are salons in which one or two Duchagne invite a select group of Kindred for a private assemblage. These are often filled with political discussion or negotiations for favors advancing the Duchagne’s influence. Generally, a small demonstration is incorporated into the evening as amusement for the guests. This entertainment is also given as a subtle indication of the Bacchante’s mentality, displaying openly what depths she is willing to go to get what she wants, and in what ways she is able to get them.
Embraced protégées are allowed to attend these salons, though the motto “be seen, but not heard” is often followed. Although answering questions posed by guests is acceptable, the protégée is there merely to learn, not participate.
Fetes are those gatherings meant mostly for the bloodline’s own members. On rare occasions, close Allies of the family are invited as well. These are lavish parties held for special occasions, such as the “Déclaration,” when a protégée is released from his esclavagiste’s care, or the “Adieu” for those Duchagne who have decided to fall into the grip of Torpor, escaping the tedium of existence.
Most Kindred, however, only hold witness to the spectacles of the Duchagne Grand Masques. These are the resplendent parties that have given the bloodline their Fame. These gatherings are open to all, not just the bloodline, and are often held to celebrate some event of the local Court. They are infamous affairs designed specifically to shock their guests and push them to more libidinous behaviors.
Fetes and Grand Masques present opportunities for the Duchagne to flaunt their abilities before their peers and gain recognition for them. The more brazen and enthralling the soirée is, the more respect given. Because of this, these grand events lead to an escalation of extremes as members attempt to outdo one another.
Due in part to the devotion of energies to these festivities, as well as their own fickle attentions, few Duchagne manage to gain significant positions within the city hierarchy. Those who do take on positions of high rank quickly find their excitement of newfound power dampened by the sheer tediousness of the job’s duties.
Induction of Daeva into the bloodline has rarely occurred. Indeed, the majority of this bloodline has never known anything other than the intimate relationship between sire and childe, and few even realize that they are anything but Duchagne. If a Bacchante found a Daeva with great promise, that Daeva might be taken into the bloodline, but the Daeva would have to be willing to undergo the same treatment that mortal protégées do.
History
When Eglatina first awoke from Torpor, she found herself mired in the grief of her loss. Torpid dreams had left her confused and angry, while fate had stranded her without a purpose in existence. Knowing little else to do, she attempted to pick up where the trio had left off. The home of the Vicomte and Vicomtesse in Bordeaux was empty and lifeless, seemingly echoing her own inner state. Masquerading as one of the nouveaux riches, she hosted intimate parties where she attempted to recreate the past. Yet, she could not bring herself to enjoy the deviant entertainments.About this time, France’s Restoration began to falter. Unrest once again began to rear its head among the masses as the economy continued to tumble. Fearing the worst, Eglatina was quick to act this time. She made arrangements for travel to the British Isles, eventually making a place for herself in the antiquated Kindred Court of London.
Here the Vicomtesse encountered a minor lord named William Dorchester. In this stately landowner, she found the force of personality that she had longed for in a companion. Though he appeared cultured and well spoken in public, in private Lord Dorchester needed little prompting to engage in his vices.
Eglatina took the lusty noble under her wing; slowly, she introduced him to the world she had existed in for almost a half-century. She subtly pushed Dorchester to greater depths of depravity, using her abilities to alter his perceptions of their acts. Pleased with his progress, she pledged to make the man into her new Vicomte. With the instatement of Louis-Philippe as king of France and the apparent return of stability, Eglatina invited Lord Dorchester back to her Bordeaux home.
She introduced him to Kindred society during a lavish fete thrown for her return home. The party quickly descended into a bacchanal of prodigious violence and indulgence. Influenced by the Vicomtesse, Lord Dorchester eagerly joined the revelry. On that night, Eglatina Embraced William.
Though new to the Blood, William proved to be a shrewd member of Kindred society, manipulating the tensions between his fellow vampires to gain favors for himself and his ‘wife.’ His grasp of Licencieux also flowered quickly, as did his innovation in its use. Yet little seemed to hold his interest for long. Rapidly, more and more vicious or exotic jaunts were needed to stir his interest.
Tensions mounted between the two, and they both sought solace in Embracing new childer. The vitriol displayed by the new Vicomte and Vicomtesse manifested mostly in biting criticisms and backhanded compliments. It was not long before the Vicomtesse and her new Vicomte realized what was soon to follow.
On a cold December evening in 1852, the two left their Parisian home for a night of hunting, though they went followed separate routes. By the time the cold winter sun began to lighten the horizon, only Eglatina had returned. The Vicomte never returned, and his childer likewise disappeared.
By the late 1860s, unrest grew across Europe. War between France and Prussia brought more anguish to a population already suffering from economic hardships and numerous government changes. The Duchagne had already intertwined themselves throughout many Kindred strongholds within the mid-continent, and Eglatina no longer cared much for the changes in the brief lives of the kine or their political problems. Resolutely, she maintained her residence even through the hellish siege of Paris.
Yet, her stagnation was engendering a dissatisfaction among her own descendants. The loudest voice within the salons of the Duchagne was that of Anastasia Halstead, a neonate recently made sans entrave. She argued to her broodmates that the bloodline needed to cease wasting their nights as petty entertainers for archaic feudal lords. With their powers, they could change the very society of the Kindred, and create a new order. Many considered her statements to be youthful folly, though a few seemed intrigued, if only as a means of diversion.
Eglatina, however, took notice of Anastasia’s words The Vicomtesse had heard these same cries from the disgruntled mortals every time unrest swept through the world. Indeed, there were already cells of Kindred threatening the same change across Europe. The Vicomtesse had little doubt that these so-called Carthians were in some way influencing her great-grandchilde. The bitterness of the loss of her sire and beloved Albaric spurred her into action. The matriarch declared Anastasia a dissident threat to the Duchagne, and slew her.
Most of the family was cruelly entertained by the neonate’s destruction, but, among many of the newly Embraced protégées and sans entrave, hushed criticism arose. Eglatina actually encouraged the rebellion she sought to stave off.
From 1867 to 1875, the Duchagne waged war upon themselves. None of the Duchagne on either side joined The Carthian Movement, but many of the elder members of the line accused their childer and grandchilder of sympathizing with the “insurrectionists.” Battles raged between Duchagne kin, and many were petulantly destroyed. The members of the line who survived refer to these battles collectively as “The Nights of Sorrow ,” remembering them with sad embarrassment.
The violent rages of the bloodline quelled almost as quickly as they had been stoked, and by the dawn of the 20th century, the Duchagne had returned to their seemingly jaded complacency. Even as two wars enveloped the world, the Bacchantes continued unaffected, although the brutal constructs of the mortal world certainly held their attention. By the early 1930s, the technology for international flight allowed the bloodline to spread itself across the world, most willing to brave the terrible risk just to find themselves in a new place. The exotic locales and sights enthralled the chilled hearts of the Duchagne and only seemed to push them faster than ever toward the depths of depravity. Like children in a candy store, members threw themselves into a world of foreign delights, seemingly wanting to drown themselves in sensation.
On the night of the new millennium, December 31, 1999, Eglatina threw a great fete for herself and all her kin in Paris. Those who attended said that she seemed uncharacteristically tired throughout, and impatient for the ringing of the New Year. Then, as the bells finally tolled, she simply rose from her seat, strode to the doors and left without a word.
That very night, several of her childer came calling at her lavish, palatial abode. Inside, they discovered the home in a mess. Furniture had been smashed across the marble floors, and the bloody corpses of her protégées had already begun the putrefaction of death. The only living thing in the house was one of the Vicomtesse’s nearly starved Ghouls, who was chained in her sleeping chambers, weeping piteously.
The bloodline was left floundering without their matriarch. Neither word nor sight of the Vicomtesse has risen since, though rumors come up now and again.
Bereft of their founder, most members of the bloodline continue on as they always have. Though the mystery of her disappearance spurs many nights of discourse in salons, younger Duchagne rarely seem concerned with the Vicomtesse’s absence. They busy themselves with affairs of local politics and furthering their own power. Elder Duchagne, on the other hand, do ponder this mystery, for some fear that Eglatina’s decline and disappearance can’t possibly be as simple as they seem.
Society and Culture
The most basic tie within the Duchagne is the one between esclavagiste and protégée, Mentor and student. This relationship is not always known to the future protégée. Indeed, months or years may go by before the student encounters her Mentor in person. Many Duchagne choose to become esclavagiste soon after being declared sans entrave — some out of a desire to prove their worth to their sire, others from a deep-seated desire to do unto others as was done to them.The choice to become a Mentor, and possible future sire, is as important to the Duchagne as it is to most Kindred, and not taken lightly. This is no attempt at a cheap thrill, or search for a subject to unleash petty cruelty upon. The vampire’s choice of protégée must be someone worthy of being an addition to the family. Thus, the esclavagiste may spend years searching for the protégée who exhibits the traits the esclavagiste desires. She may even go through several such candidates before settling upon one.
Elder Duchagne weary of crude and visceral ordeals fairly quickly, and seek a more complex and subtle approach. Working from a distance, they manipulate the lives of their protégées. Caresses by unseen hands, moments of sensory loss or even more tangible effects of job loss or diminished Resources all become the tools of the esclavagiste’s handiwork. A few cunning Bacchantes go after those around the protégée, driving them to the verge of madness. With judicious use of Disciplines, the vampire may even ensure that the protégée gradually grows to anticipate the challenges placed before him.
Once the protégée has shown a satisfactory degree of progress toward the goal of the esclavagiste, a fete is planned in the kine’s honor. Close members of the bloodline are invited to this lavish affair where the protégée is introduced to his prospective family. For many potentials, this is the first time they ever come face-to-face with the orchestrator of their ordeals. This bloody party is the final test for the protégée. Should he give into the bacchanal around him, the esclavagiste draws him into the Requiem.
After the Embrace, the dynamics of the relationship change dramatically. The protégée is no longer subjected to trial after trial, but becomes a Companion to his sire. For a brief while, the sire lives vicariously through her childe, seeing once again the pleasures in existence that she has forgotten. The protégée still remains under the watchful eye of his esclavagiste during this time, as she trains him not only in the ways of Kindred society but also in the powers within his Blood. As soon as the fledgling is able to master the basics of Licencieux, he is declared sans entrave, or unchained, and is considered a fully independent member of the bloodline.
The Duchagne are often known in Kindred society for the profligate parties they host. These bacchanals push the boundaries of even the most liberal vampire’s bloodlust, and toe the line of decency many elders pretend to uphold. Yet, not all gatherings are equal in their extent or purpose.
A majority of social meetings held are salons in which one or two Duchagne invite a select group of Kindred for a private assemblage. These are often filled with political discussion or negotiations for favors advancing the Duchagne’s influence. Generally, a small demonstration is incorporated into the evening as amusement for the guests. This entertainment is also given as a subtle indication of the Bacchante’s mentality, displaying openly what depths she is willing to go to get what she wants, and in what ways she is able to get them.
Embraced protégées are allowed to attend these salons, though the motto “be seen, but not heard” is often followed. Although answering questions posed by guests is acceptable, the protégée is there merely to learn, not participate.
Fetes are those gatherings meant mostly for the bloodline’s own members. On rare occasions, close Allies of the family are invited as well. These are lavish parties held for special occasions, such as the “Déclaration,” when a protégée is released from his esclavagiste’s care, or the “Adieu” for those Duchagne who have decided to fall into the grip of Torpor, escaping the tedium of existence.
Most Kindred, however, only hold witness to the spectacles of the Duchagne Grand Masques. These are the resplendent parties that have given the bloodline their Fame. These gatherings are open to all, not just the bloodline, and are often held to celebrate some event of the local Court. They are infamous affairs designed specifically to shock their guests and push them to more libidinous behaviors.
Fetes and Grand Masques present opportunities for the Duchagne to flaunt their abilities before their peers and gain recognition for them. The more brazen and enthralling the soirée is, the more respect given. Because of this, these grand events lead to an escalation of extremes as members attempt to outdo one another.
Due in part to the devotion of energies to these festivities, as well as their own fickle attentions, few Duchagne manage to gain significant positions within the city hierarchy. Those who do take on positions of high rank quickly find their excitement of newfound power dampened by the sheer tediousness of the job’s duties.
Common Dress code
Appearance: Though Albaric and Eglatina were noble in title alone, the two still maintained the appearance of those born to the aristocracy. And while protégées are taken from generally all areas and cultures of life, there is a certain standard to which members are held when it comes to appearances. Two members of the same brood may be as differing in tastes as night and day, but whatever it is they choose to wear, one can be assured it is the finest, and most fashionable and most expensive.
Yet, there is always a certain antiseptic look and scent about members of the Duchagne, like someone who has been working in a hospital or with chemical cleaners. Everything is too carefully arranged, too perfect. One would almost believe that their clothes are worn once, and never again.
Yet, there is always a certain antiseptic look and scent about members of the Duchagne, like someone who has been working in a hospital or with chemical cleaners. Everything is too carefully arranged, too perfect. One would almost believe that their clothes are worn once, and never again.
Art & Architecture
Haven: The members of the bloodline are all about keeping up appearances, and few other places allow for such an intimate look at the soul as the hearth and home. The havens of the Duchagne are palettes and tools with which the vampires use to create their masterpieces upon the blank canvases of their protégées. As such, functionality is as important as style.
Where one might maintain a spartan dwelling filled with easily cleaned faux leather furniture, another exists in a lavish home in a cocoon of rich textures and color. Both, havens, however, would be set up for quick rearranging and cleaning. The two would also have ‘accommodations’ secreted away for future protégées. The maintaining of these hidden (and sometimes not-so-hidden) rooms often leaves behind a strong scent of antiseptic solutions, which clings to the bodies and clothing of residents. It is perhaps this scent that others commonly associate with the bloodline.
Where one might maintain a spartan dwelling filled with easily cleaned faux leather furniture, another exists in a lavish home in a cocoon of rich textures and color. Both, havens, however, would be set up for quick rearranging and cleaning. The two would also have ‘accommodations’ secreted away for future protégées. The maintaining of these hidden (and sometimes not-so-hidden) rooms often leaves behind a strong scent of antiseptic solutions, which clings to the bodies and clothing of residents. It is perhaps this scent that others commonly associate with the bloodline.
Major organizations
Covenant: Most Duchagne find a place in the hallowed halls of the First Estate. The Duchagne’s manipulative gifts allow them to excel at negotiation and Interrogation in equal measures, as well as general interaction with kine and Kindred. Duchagne vampires make excellent Advocates, Speakers and Interpreters. Some use their power to rocket up through the ranks of The Invictus, applying it viciously to their competition. Many Kindred fear the subversive talents of the Duchagne, but few give voice to those fears, knowing full well that they risk becoming targets of the Bacchantes’ attention.
The Circle of the Crone holds the second largest number of this bloodline. The concept of growth through pain and tribulation appeals to the Bacchantes’ nature, and the bloody rites of Cr˙ac hold a certain (some would say unhealthy) amount of fascination.
A Duchagne Acolyte is likely to build a cult of personality around herself, using her ability to alter the senses of her followers to convince them of her own divinity. Often these mortal cults enthusiastically deify the vampire, bringing willing, and not so willing, prey to sate her bloodlust. Many of the Bacchantes who take this route burn out quickly though, often buying into their own rhetoric and pushing themselves to wilder and wilder excess in the name of misbegotten self-worship.
Other, less self-serving Duchagne see the crone’s faith in growth through tribulation as a natural path to enlightenment, and consider their own initiation into undeath part of the process. To these ends, they begin to revere pain and torment. The members of these bloody factions are scar-covered, callous thugs who attempt to spread their own pain into the lives of all around them, believing that the anguish will ease their souls toward enlightenment.
Those few Duchagne who join the ranks of The Lancea Sanctum often disapprove of the decadence and self-indulgence their brothers and sisters wallow in. To these Sanctified, les arts Licencieux are better put to the use of hounding the heretical and tormenting the wicked. Moreover, members of this covenant eschew many of the hedonistic indulgences of their brethren, choosing to indulge few pleasures of their own outside of the completion of their duty.
The Carthian Movement holds little appeal for the Duchagne. Eglatina has commented often to her childer and grandchilder of the Movement’s similarities to the revolution that took her sire and husband from her, and these teachings have filtered down the ranks of the bloodline, tainting members’ attitudes toward the covenant.
There are, to date, no members of the Duchagne within the ranks of The Ordo Dracul. Though certain ideals espoused by the Dragons pique the occasional interest of a lone Bacchante, the Duchagne’s inability to stay interested in repetitious work tends to diminish her ability to take the covenant’s philosophies seriously.
Organization: The sire/childe connection continues to be the primary source of order within the Duchagne, with Eglatina sitting as the Matriarch above all. Typically, the sire, termed the esclavagiste, inducts a mortal possessing qualities the sire finds favorable. This mortal is referred to as the protégée, and remains such until released into Kindred society. Protégées possess little-to-no rights, save those their esclavagiste grant them, and are little more than slaves. Duchagne rarely trade protégées, but it might happen in instances of truly stubborn inductees.
Upon release into Kindred society, the protégée is referred to as being sans entrave, or unchained. Typically, a grand ball is held in the Duchagne’s honor. Such parties are not restricted by covenant politics, or even Blood Ties. Indeed, grand balls tend to be showcases of the bloodline’s collective talents.
The Circle of the Crone holds the second largest number of this bloodline. The concept of growth through pain and tribulation appeals to the Bacchantes’ nature, and the bloody rites of Cr˙ac hold a certain (some would say unhealthy) amount of fascination.
A Duchagne Acolyte is likely to build a cult of personality around herself, using her ability to alter the senses of her followers to convince them of her own divinity. Often these mortal cults enthusiastically deify the vampire, bringing willing, and not so willing, prey to sate her bloodlust. Many of the Bacchantes who take this route burn out quickly though, often buying into their own rhetoric and pushing themselves to wilder and wilder excess in the name of misbegotten self-worship.
Other, less self-serving Duchagne see the crone’s faith in growth through tribulation as a natural path to enlightenment, and consider their own initiation into undeath part of the process. To these ends, they begin to revere pain and torment. The members of these bloody factions are scar-covered, callous thugs who attempt to spread their own pain into the lives of all around them, believing that the anguish will ease their souls toward enlightenment.
Those few Duchagne who join the ranks of The Lancea Sanctum often disapprove of the decadence and self-indulgence their brothers and sisters wallow in. To these Sanctified, les arts Licencieux are better put to the use of hounding the heretical and tormenting the wicked. Moreover, members of this covenant eschew many of the hedonistic indulgences of their brethren, choosing to indulge few pleasures of their own outside of the completion of their duty.
The Carthian Movement holds little appeal for the Duchagne. Eglatina has commented often to her childer and grandchilder of the Movement’s similarities to the revolution that took her sire and husband from her, and these teachings have filtered down the ranks of the bloodline, tainting members’ attitudes toward the covenant.
There are, to date, no members of the Duchagne within the ranks of The Ordo Dracul. Though certain ideals espoused by the Dragons pique the occasional interest of a lone Bacchante, the Duchagne’s inability to stay interested in repetitious work tends to diminish her ability to take the covenant’s philosophies seriously.
Organization: The sire/childe connection continues to be the primary source of order within the Duchagne, with Eglatina sitting as the Matriarch above all. Typically, the sire, termed the esclavagiste, inducts a mortal possessing qualities the sire finds favorable. This mortal is referred to as the protégée, and remains such until released into Kindred society. Protégées possess little-to-no rights, save those their esclavagiste grant them, and are little more than slaves. Duchagne rarely trade protégées, but it might happen in instances of truly stubborn inductees.
Upon release into Kindred society, the protégée is referred to as being sans entrave, or unchained. Typically, a grand ball is held in the Duchagne’s honor. Such parties are not restricted by covenant politics, or even Blood Ties. Indeed, grand balls tend to be showcases of the bloodline’s collective talents.
Nickname: Bacchantes
Character Creation: Protégées are chosen from a wide variety of mortals, but those who excel in social or mental practice tend to be Embraced more often then those who are more physically inclined. Manipulation, Composure and Resolve are highly favored Attributes, although, after the physical trauma many protégées endure prior to the Embrace, a high Stamina is quite justified.
Social and Mental Skills are coveted by the members of this bloodline. Crafts, Intimidation and Subterfuge are all useful, as are Medicine and Socialize. Herd and Haven are highly prized Merits, as well as connections to mortal police and criminal organizations.
Bloodline Disciplines: Celerity, Licencieux, Majesty, Vigor
Weakness: Members of this bloodline tend to grow weary of simple pleasures quicker than most vampires. That which thrilled the vampire one day is discarded as passé the next. Within a few years, only the most deviant acts manage to stir any emotion in the Bacchantes. To many outsiders, the Duchagne seem to be fickle with their affections. In actuality, the Kindred of this bloodline simply lose their ability to empathize with their lost Humanity, and are desperate to feel anything at all.
All Duchagne vampires suffer from a –1 die penalty to rolls for repeated actions. After they’ve done something once, they just get bored with it; they have trouble focusing their full attention and get sloppy. Any time a Duchagne does something the same way she’s done it before, this penalty applies.
On extended actions, the penalty accumulates on each roll following the first. For example, if a Duchagne character were to paint a portrait, the Storyteller may declare it an Extended Dexterity + Crafts action. The first roll is unmodified. A –1 die penalty would be applied to the second roll, a –2 dice penalty to the third, a –3 dice penalty to the fourth and so on.
Concepts: Lothario, Prince’s interrogator, drug lord, bondage freak, con artist, power Behind the Throne, bored aristocrat, purveyor of the flesh, vengeful zealot.
Parent ethnicities
Social and Mental Skills are coveted by the members of this bloodline. Crafts, Intimidation and Subterfuge are all useful, as are Medicine and Socialize. Herd and Haven are highly prized Merits, as well as connections to mortal police and criminal organizations.
Bloodline Disciplines: Celerity, Licencieux, Majesty, Vigor
Weakness: Members of this bloodline tend to grow weary of simple pleasures quicker than most vampires. That which thrilled the vampire one day is discarded as passé the next. Within a few years, only the most deviant acts manage to stir any emotion in the Bacchantes. To many outsiders, the Duchagne seem to be fickle with their affections. In actuality, the Kindred of this bloodline simply lose their ability to empathize with their lost Humanity, and are desperate to feel anything at all.
All Duchagne vampires suffer from a –1 die penalty to rolls for repeated actions. After they’ve done something once, they just get bored with it; they have trouble focusing their full attention and get sloppy. Any time a Duchagne does something the same way she’s done it before, this penalty applies.
On extended actions, the penalty accumulates on each roll following the first. For example, if a Duchagne character were to paint a portrait, the Storyteller may declare it an Extended Dexterity + Crafts action. The first roll is unmodified. A –1 die penalty would be applied to the second roll, a –2 dice penalty to the third, a –3 dice penalty to the fourth and so on.
Concepts: Lothario, Prince’s interrogator, drug lord, bondage freak, con artist, power Behind the Throne, bored aristocrat, purveyor of the flesh, vengeful zealot.
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