The Doulosi
“That’s good advice, but I’m no stranger, dear. I’m an old friend of your mother’s, and she’s terribly hurt. Hop on in and we’ll go to her together. There’s a good girl ...”
The Doulosi cult of Ghouls is perhaps one of the strangest entities to arise in the shadow world of the undead. The Doulosi’s ability to blend into the changes of the ages often leads those who investigate such things to grossly underestimate the true antiquity of the Doulosi’s line. Although several factions of the Forsworn claim to be the ghoul cult’s source, just as many claim that the Doulosi were, in fact, founded by Belial himself.
Nonetheless, the Doulosi are actually a cult, and not a true ghoul family, that for centuries filled its ranks primarily with the descendents of six mortal families who made their homes along the Mediterranean — in northern Italy, around the Greek Islands and in Cyprus. The families were generally wealthy, but of lower social standing and often on the outs with their respective courts or ruling bodies. After making their pact with the Doulosi patricians, their woes were mysteriously eased and the Doulosi would collect their payment. Payment usually consisted of a firstborn child, or the head of the house taking of the blood of Belial, which was provided by one of the Forsworn of the nearest covey.
The original six families of the Doulosi (a variant on the Greek word for “bondservant”) were the Androphonis, Anleemoni, Avigsonne, Carcassonne, Diakonos and the Schiavari. The Avigsonne are perhaps the most well-known among Forsworn worldwide, although the Androphonis are believed to be the oldest. It is said that Concettá Avigsonne was the widow of Lothario Avigsonne, an unsuccessful drunk of a merchant whose familial estates were seized in his home of Sardinia. After numerous failed attempts at restoring his fortune, Lothario fell into an irreversible Depression. Disgusted by her husband’s failure and weakness, Concettá calmly poisoned him. Committed to restoring both her station and her wealth, even while under Suspicion for her husband’s demise, Concettá Avigsonne attended parties and dinners in search of a new husband. Although she did not find a husband, she did encounter a Forsworn ghoul who made her an offer she was unable to resist. Although her station in mortal society was never restored, Concettá’s unseen influence and wealth was profound, and the power of her line has grown considerably over the centuries.
Regardless of family, the Doulosi cult has been an invaluable support network for several factions of Belial’s Brood for at least 2,000 years. This fact is made even more significant when one realizes that the members of this ghoul cult rarely become Forsworn themselves (the reasons for which remain debated to this night). In addition, as the Doulosi are a cult and not a true family, children are born human and require a special ceremony and ritual to become Doulosi.
Similar to the core Vaulderie, the rite of making used to create the Doulosi cultists is an Archonte. Several coveys of the Forsworn have refused to perform the rite, but all Forsworn know how, and most coveys have at least one Doulosi to attend to their needs. The ritual itself is similar to a Vaulderie in the way that the blood of the ghoul candidate (or ghoul) fills a ceremonial vessel, pooling with that of the members of the hosting covey. After the goblet is filled, however, the covey turns its back to the candidate as the aspiring Doulosi empties the vessel in its entirety, often vomiting up the excess in the case of larger coveys. This done, the covey takes up metal styluses and inscribes prayers of blessing, claims of ownership and curses against betrayal on the ghoul’s body. At that point, the mortal or ghoul becomes a full member of the Doulosi cult. Among The Nameless, there is a belief that the Ghouls who undergo this transformation symbolically inherit the bloodline of Belial himself, whom they believe was a human who sired a hidden litany of mortal offspring. Whether there is any truth to the latter, it does account for the respectful way in which The Nameless handle their Doulosi, and why elders of The Nameless (as well as some of the other factions) take heed of their chosen Ghouls, minding them not only for advice, but also for signs and portents.
Nonetheless, the Doulosi are actually a cult, and not a true ghoul family, that for centuries filled its ranks primarily with the descendents of six mortal families who made their homes along the Mediterranean — in northern Italy, around the Greek Islands and in Cyprus. The families were generally wealthy, but of lower social standing and often on the outs with their respective courts or ruling bodies. After making their pact with the Doulosi patricians, their woes were mysteriously eased and the Doulosi would collect their payment. Payment usually consisted of a firstborn child, or the head of the house taking of the blood of Belial, which was provided by one of the Forsworn of the nearest covey.
The original six families of the Doulosi (a variant on the Greek word for “bondservant”) were the Androphonis, Anleemoni, Avigsonne, Carcassonne, Diakonos and the Schiavari. The Avigsonne are perhaps the most well-known among Forsworn worldwide, although the Androphonis are believed to be the oldest. It is said that Concettá Avigsonne was the widow of Lothario Avigsonne, an unsuccessful drunk of a merchant whose familial estates were seized in his home of Sardinia. After numerous failed attempts at restoring his fortune, Lothario fell into an irreversible Depression. Disgusted by her husband’s failure and weakness, Concettá calmly poisoned him. Committed to restoring both her station and her wealth, even while under Suspicion for her husband’s demise, Concettá Avigsonne attended parties and dinners in search of a new husband. Although she did not find a husband, she did encounter a Forsworn ghoul who made her an offer she was unable to resist. Although her station in mortal society was never restored, Concettá’s unseen influence and wealth was profound, and the power of her line has grown considerably over the centuries.
Regardless of family, the Doulosi cult has been an invaluable support network for several factions of Belial’s Brood for at least 2,000 years. This fact is made even more significant when one realizes that the members of this ghoul cult rarely become Forsworn themselves (the reasons for which remain debated to this night). In addition, as the Doulosi are a cult and not a true family, children are born human and require a special ceremony and ritual to become Doulosi.
Similar to the core Vaulderie, the rite of making used to create the Doulosi cultists is an Archonte. Several coveys of the Forsworn have refused to perform the rite, but all Forsworn know how, and most coveys have at least one Doulosi to attend to their needs. The ritual itself is similar to a Vaulderie in the way that the blood of the ghoul candidate (or ghoul) fills a ceremonial vessel, pooling with that of the members of the hosting covey. After the goblet is filled, however, the covey turns its back to the candidate as the aspiring Doulosi empties the vessel in its entirety, often vomiting up the excess in the case of larger coveys. This done, the covey takes up metal styluses and inscribes prayers of blessing, claims of ownership and curses against betrayal on the ghoul’s body. At that point, the mortal or ghoul becomes a full member of the Doulosi cult. Among The Nameless, there is a belief that the Ghouls who undergo this transformation symbolically inherit the bloodline of Belial himself, whom they believe was a human who sired a hidden litany of mortal offspring. Whether there is any truth to the latter, it does account for the respectful way in which The Nameless handle their Doulosi, and why elders of The Nameless (as well as some of the other factions) take heed of their chosen Ghouls, minding them not only for advice, but also for signs and portents.
Culture
Common Dress code
Appearance: In both the modern nights and those of the past, Doulosi are often prized for their ability to blend in. Although they may serve the vicious and violent warriors of The Throne of Smokeless Fire, or the flamboyant and gory Antinomians, the Doulosi all cultivate a passing inconspicuousness that allows them to seek out and obtain those things that the Forsworn cannot obtain on their own. However, the Doulosi are often no less Devoted to the concept of the Adversary than any of Belial’s Brood. For this reason, the Ghouls will often carve or tattoo the marks of their allegiance on areas of their bodies that are normally concealed.
Ghouls of the Brood are “marked” by their inconspicuous nature. As they are the hands of those who cannot walk freely among men without notice, the Ghouls are indoctrinated into a silent practice of faith in the Brood’s philosophies without bearing any conspicuous marks. However, due to their zealousness, many of these Ghouls (especially among the sarx-focused factions) engage in secret rites of self-mortification, such as carving or branding sigils onto parts of the body that are generally hidden by clothing.
Ghouls of the Brood are “marked” by their inconspicuous nature. As they are the hands of those who cannot walk freely among men without notice, the Ghouls are indoctrinated into a silent practice of faith in the Brood’s philosophies without bearing any conspicuous marks. However, due to their zealousness, many of these Ghouls (especially among the sarx-focused factions) engage in secret rites of self-mortification, such as carving or branding sigils onto parts of the body that are generally hidden by clothing.
Art & Architecture
Havens: The havens and holdings of the Doulosi cult take on many forms, largely depending on the covey (or coveys) that the Ghouls serve. In the case of The Mercy Seat, Doulosi will generally take up residence with the covey itself, whereas those who serve The Scarlet Rite often open their homes to the members of the covey. The Throne of Smokeless Fire generally keeps its Ghouls at a distance, the Doulosi being no exception. Nonetheless, Doulosi who serve the Djinn are generally very influential and powerful, sometimes owning palatial estates, as the Forsworn of the Throne will accept nothing less. The Ghouls who mind the affairs of The Roaring Serpent generally mind the affairs of the covey and have residences that reflect these mundane roles. The Forsworn of the Pandemonium almost always incorporate the Doulosi Ghouls into their inner cults and share their havens with them, as the loyalty of the ghoul cult has stood the test of time. However, the Doulosi who serve The Nameless are the best off, being provided with the sort of luxury the legendary get of Belial would deserve.
Major organizations
Factions: The uses of the Doulosi vary widely depending on the covey and faction to which they are sworn. Among the Archons and the Djinn, Doulosi are used chiefly to maintain mortal affairs of the Brood. As soma cultists often acquire significant Resources and stores of material power, the aid of those who can move by day are essential to their operations. In the case of the Faustians, Ghouls are absolutely required for the success of most of their plans, as the intricate methods of corruption can often require a significant supporting cast. Antinomians make use of the Doulosi to facilitate large-scale rituals and, in some instances, use more experienced Doulosi to indoctrinate their young and ignorant recruits. The Scarlet Rite shares a history with the debauched Androphonis family and includes the esteemed members of the old family in their licentious agendas, and also employs them to maintain its holdings. In the case of both sarx cults, the Doulosi are key in maintaining a connection to the real and actual living flesh. However, the Doulosi hold the most importance for The Nameless. Because of the faction’s particular outlook, The Nameless requires a mortal interface to maintain balance and influence. Nonetheless, The Nameless belief that the Doulosi are the inheritors of the blood of Belial himself that gives them a sacred value to the members of that faction.
Organization: The Doulosi Ghouls are placed in positions of rank and function in accordance with what their covey requires. Within The Pandaemonium, Doulosi can play almost as much of a role as the Forsworn themselves, often undergoing the same initiations as those of the core covey. Doulosi in service to The Roaring Serpent are perhaps the most traditionally handled, acting as bonded servants to their undead masters. When the Doulosi cult is employed by The Mercy Seat, they are occasionally placed in the care of subordinate, non-Doulosi Ghouls. The Nameless treat the Doulosi as truly sacred, and often put them in direct service to their ranking Priest figure, most often a member of the Therion bloodline (assuming the covey has initiated one). The Scarlet Rite, though not to the degree of The Nameless, will often incorporate the Ghouls into their priesthood as well, as they feel the living Ghouls can provide valuable insights into the sarx.
Organization: The Doulosi Ghouls are placed in positions of rank and function in accordance with what their covey requires. Within The Pandaemonium, Doulosi can play almost as much of a role as the Forsworn themselves, often undergoing the same initiations as those of the core covey. Doulosi in service to The Roaring Serpent are perhaps the most traditionally handled, acting as bonded servants to their undead masters. When the Doulosi cult is employed by The Mercy Seat, they are occasionally placed in the care of subordinate, non-Doulosi Ghouls. The Nameless treat the Doulosi as truly sacred, and often put them in direct service to their ranking Priest figure, most often a member of the Therion bloodline (assuming the covey has initiated one). The Scarlet Rite, though not to the degree of The Nameless, will often incorporate the Ghouls into their priesthood as well, as they feel the living Ghouls can provide valuable insights into the sarx.
Nickname: None. Individual members of the Doulosi are often referred to by their family names (e.g., Avigsonne, Diakonos, Androphonis, Anleemoni). In the case of new blood, the ghoul will either take the name of one of the older families (depending on the region and covey) or simply be called by the term “Doulosi.”
Clans: Any. As the Doulosi are not traditional ghoul families, the regnant can be of any clan. Ghouls of the Daeva are sometimes chosen because they are often physically powerful and can socially influence other mortals. Gangrel Ghouls make excellent soldiers as well, but more importantly, have experience in dealing with vampires who are dangerously close to the Beast. Mekhet Ghouls who have achieved any mastery of their regnant clans’ Disciplines are invaluable, making excellent watchdogs for the Forsworn. In addition, because of the abundance of Mekhet scholars and lore-hoarders, Ghouls from their number often possess acute intellect and Research skills. Nosferatu Ghouls are beloved of many of the more visceral sarx cultists for their ability to unleash terror and physical punishment, but are also valued by the Brood in general because they tend to come with strong stomachs and an innate tolerance to things disturbing and nightmarish. Ghouls sustained by Ventrue regnants are versatile and useful, often used to taking orders from domineering Kindred who weave complex schemes that revolve around others’ undoing.
Strengths: Even as Ghouls, the Doulosi may purchase up to one dot of Status in Belial’s Brood (Covenant Status), and, just as for vampires of the Brood, Status confers the privilege of learning Investments and Devotions for which Investments are a prerequisite. Ghouls must still meet all prerequisites to learn such gifts (i.e., Morality 4 or lower), and they never benefit from having a favored aspect, regardless of faction affiliation. Any ghoul who chooses to raise his Morality score loses all Investments and all Devotions requiring Investments.
Weaknesses: The fact that the Doulosi have withstood the test of time to the degree they have is truly a testimony to their conviction and commitment. While they may serve for decades as slaves of the most inhuman of vampires, the Ghouls of the Doulosi cult do not themselves acclimate well or readily to the Embrace. Once ritually inducted into the Doulosi, a ghoul almost never survives the transformation into undeath. When a Doulosi is Embraced, roll the character’s Morality with a –2 penalty. Only if the roll is a success does the Doulosi survive to become one of the Kindred. With any other roll result, the ghoul dies screaming.
Concept: Bodyguard, coroner, cultist, groundskeeper, legal clerk, next-door neighbor, occult bookstore owner, personal assistant, youth center coordinator.
Both the Therion bloodline and the Doulosi ghoul family are oddities of vampire physiology. How does a bloodline emerge without a parent clan? How does a ghoul family solidify its mystic properties enough to pass on the supernatural power of the Blood without also inheriting the unique aspects of the clan from which they derive their power? If bloodlines can be formed without the fetters of blood shackling them to one clan or another, if ghoul blood can achieve the difficult goal of graduating to a full-fledged ghoul lineage without an intimate debt to any one clan, why don’t more vampires strive to win this kind of flexibility for their own bloodlines and their own ghoul families?
In the fictional game world of Vampire, the answer is simple: The Therion are not really a bloodline and the Doulosi are not really a ghoul family. At least, not in the same way that other bloodlines and ghoul families are. Rather, they are unique anomalies of the Blood, perhaps caused by ancient contact with hellfire but reproducible through the same Vitae-altering methods that Kindred use to transmute their essential blood from that of a clan to that of a bloodline. The sanguine mutations that make a vampire into a Therion, for example, are not strictly the same as those that result in more traditional bloodlines, but the changes these transformations cause in the Blood render vampires unable to adopt any other bloodline. The effect is similar for the Doulosi — their weakness even demonstrates how volatile it can be to mix these blood anomalies with more common vampire blood factors.
In the Language of the game itself, the issue is even less fantastic: What happens in the game world and how it’s described in the game mechanics are not always the same. Vampires in and out of the Brood mistake the Therion and the Doulosi for things more commonly encountered (bloodlines and ghoul families), but that doesn’t make them the same. The effects of the Therion and the Doulosi on gameplay are similar enough to those of regular bloodlines and ghoul families that it’s not worth your trouble to learn new systems to use them. The role that these elements play in Belial’s Brood require these mechanisms to be available to characters of any clan, and opening each element to any clan is the most direct way to represent that in the game. Five different Therion bloodlines could have been described — one for each clan, for example — but that would just use more pages to say the same thing.
The basic mechanics of the Doulosi, as described in this book, are enough to use them in most Vampire chronicles, but if you want more information on proper ghoul families and how they work, get yourself a copy of Ghouls.
Clans: Any. As the Doulosi are not traditional ghoul families, the regnant can be of any clan. Ghouls of the Daeva are sometimes chosen because they are often physically powerful and can socially influence other mortals. Gangrel Ghouls make excellent soldiers as well, but more importantly, have experience in dealing with vampires who are dangerously close to the Beast. Mekhet Ghouls who have achieved any mastery of their regnant clans’ Disciplines are invaluable, making excellent watchdogs for the Forsworn. In addition, because of the abundance of Mekhet scholars and lore-hoarders, Ghouls from their number often possess acute intellect and Research skills. Nosferatu Ghouls are beloved of many of the more visceral sarx cultists for their ability to unleash terror and physical punishment, but are also valued by the Brood in general because they tend to come with strong stomachs and an innate tolerance to things disturbing and nightmarish. Ghouls sustained by Ventrue regnants are versatile and useful, often used to taking orders from domineering Kindred who weave complex schemes that revolve around others’ undoing.
Related Organizations
Weaknesses: The fact that the Doulosi have withstood the test of time to the degree they have is truly a testimony to their conviction and commitment. While they may serve for decades as slaves of the most inhuman of vampires, the Ghouls of the Doulosi cult do not themselves acclimate well or readily to the Embrace. Once ritually inducted into the Doulosi, a ghoul almost never survives the transformation into undeath. When a Doulosi is Embraced, roll the character’s Morality with a –2 penalty. Only if the roll is a success does the Doulosi survive to become one of the Kindred. With any other roll result, the ghoul dies screaming.
Concept: Bodyguard, coroner, cultist, groundskeeper, legal clerk, next-door neighbor, occult bookstore owner, personal assistant, youth center coordinator.
Parent Clan: Any?
Both the Therion bloodline and the Doulosi ghoul family are oddities of vampire physiology. How does a bloodline emerge without a parent clan? How does a ghoul family solidify its mystic properties enough to pass on the supernatural power of the Blood without also inheriting the unique aspects of the clan from which they derive their power? If bloodlines can be formed without the fetters of blood shackling them to one clan or another, if ghoul blood can achieve the difficult goal of graduating to a full-fledged ghoul lineage without an intimate debt to any one clan, why don’t more vampires strive to win this kind of flexibility for their own bloodlines and their own ghoul families?In the fictional game world of Vampire, the answer is simple: The Therion are not really a bloodline and the Doulosi are not really a ghoul family. At least, not in the same way that other bloodlines and ghoul families are. Rather, they are unique anomalies of the Blood, perhaps caused by ancient contact with hellfire but reproducible through the same Vitae-altering methods that Kindred use to transmute their essential blood from that of a clan to that of a bloodline. The sanguine mutations that make a vampire into a Therion, for example, are not strictly the same as those that result in more traditional bloodlines, but the changes these transformations cause in the Blood render vampires unable to adopt any other bloodline. The effect is similar for the Doulosi — their weakness even demonstrates how volatile it can be to mix these blood anomalies with more common vampire blood factors.
In the Language of the game itself, the issue is even less fantastic: What happens in the game world and how it’s described in the game mechanics are not always the same. Vampires in and out of the Brood mistake the Therion and the Doulosi for things more commonly encountered (bloodlines and ghoul families), but that doesn’t make them the same. The effects of the Therion and the Doulosi on gameplay are similar enough to those of regular bloodlines and ghoul families that it’s not worth your trouble to learn new systems to use them. The role that these elements play in Belial’s Brood require these mechanisms to be available to characters of any clan, and opening each element to any clan is the most direct way to represent that in the game. Five different Therion bloodlines could have been described — one for each clan, for example — but that would just use more pages to say the same thing.
The basic mechanics of the Doulosi, as described in this book, are enough to use them in most Vampire chronicles, but if you want more information on proper ghoul families and how they work, get yourself a copy of Ghouls.