The Unaligned
When one hears a vampire refer to the existing Kindred order as the “despised aristocracy of the undead,” the speaker is probably one of these free-thinking spirits — those whom the vampire world has dubbed somewhat misleadingly as one of the “unaligned” or “unbound.” They are the rebels, outlaws and iconoclasts of vampire society, those who freely (and often intentionally) flout the so-called rule of the elders among their kind. Independent Kindred can also simply be apolitical vampires, those who acknowledge only their own authority but who don’t necessarily make a grand show of defiance against Princes and Regents. There are as many reasons to renounce the entire notion of covenants as there are Kindred among the unbound, everything from paper-tiger rebellion to acknowledging no greater authority than the self to free will to downright bizarre mystic philosophies and even heresies.[br
The unaligned are fiercely independent, and many would sooner face the rising sun with a smile than spend eternity in submission before another creature of the night. While they do not truly compose a covenant, the unbound are often overlooked individually and considered in a collective rabble with others of their mindset, despite the fact that they have no shared organization. Still, enough commonalities occur that they can be discussed as a phenomenon, even if their status as a formal covenant is nonexistent. If a vampire disdains the prevailing governmental structure but doesn’t belong to any structured covenant of her own, the rest of Kindred society almost always considers her one of the unaligned.
The spread of an informal unbound sympathy would change all this. Many lawless, practically careless Kindred did much to shake up the world of vampire society in a very short time. Lines were blurred, boundaries crossed and dreadful decisions made, all in the name of independence from the established order, and that was the part that caused a stir. Although what passes for an unaligned “movement” has since settled down a bit (or at least retreated to the shadows of the domains in which such Kindred are found), the damage wrought upon the unbound was done. Tonight, more than a few elders among the covenants have taken the actions of particularly truculent unaligned as representative of the gestalt… or at least capitalized on the aftermath thereof in an attempt to clamp down on such rogues.
Although a great many unaligned Kindred are neonates or young ancillae, this is not to say that no elders renounce sectarian ways. A number of older Kindred, primarily those of the Mekhet and Gangrel, prize the unbound for their freedoms, and might even seek to turn their influence toward uniting local unbound under a common banner in hopes of forming a neo-covenant that advances their own agendas. In fact, these few manipulative elders are responsible for the hostile attitudes that certain cells of independents harbor toward more formalized groups of Kindred. This isn’t to say that every elder goes independent in hopes of building a private army. Many elders among the unbound are quite content simply to ignore social strictures that they personally find distasteful. In the eyes of many “established” Kindred, with elder power comes responsibility, and interpersonal pressures occasionally force into covenants those elders who would be more satisfied if they were freed from such duties.
This sole idea forms the approximate basis of the independent ideology, but like any solid foundation, it embodies itself in a number of night-to-night practical principles. These trends of the unbound mindset give individual Kindred a sense of self, while providing a necessary grounding in the realities of unlife.
Again, note that these aren’t formalized codes of belief among the unbound. Each independent Kindred is her own Prince, or at least wishes to be. These are simply the most common points of agreement among a non-covenant of ruggedly individual vampires.
Vampiric Nature Is Solitary
To the unbound, the twin notions of freedom and individuality — as they pertain to vampiric existence — have their roots in the simple truth that vampires are solitary creatures. The soul of a Kindred is solitude. It is shut out from the world it knew before the Embrace and forced to survive the Requiem as a wolf among the flock, dipping in and out of the fringes of mortal society while never truly integrating with it.
The same applies to the new world into which a Kindred is thrust upon his Embrace. While many view vampire society as a sub-level resting beneath and within mortal society, the unaligned tend to reject this view on the whole. To them, the notion of a “vampire society” is a shamefully forced contrivance, a deliberate attempt by power-hungry elders to enforce structure and order where there is none. Vampires are bestial, undead predators. Forcing them to coexist under fabricated pretense is a recipe for disaster. Only by respecting the natural Kindred state — that of isolated, independent equality — can harmony be found among the Damned.
Power Corrupts
The unaligned are no fools (by and large). They tend to see how terribly power corrupts among the living. Compound the problem with undeath, literal bloodthirst and the prospect of an eternity of the same, and the result is disaster waiting to happen. The unbound can believe that the Kindred are the last creatures who should be in a position to wield great power over themselves, let alone over one another. They’re called “the Damned” for a reason, and the Damned should not be leading the Damned. That’s a caravan that can only travel straight to the gates of Hell, and the unbound know better than to fall into such an ill-fated line. Better that each vampire concern himself primarily with his own progress along his own road.
This is not to say that independent Kindred eschew power and influence. They are still vampires, and many feel that the only way to fight fire is with fire. Even those who don’t can still appreciate the benefit of amassing great amounts of wealth or sway in various mortal circles. The important distinction is how and in what manner their power negatively affects those of their kind. Being aware of one’s solitary nature does not mean pretending that other Kindred don’t exist. This very mistake has earned more than one well-intentioned unbound her share of trouble. The trick is to learn how to balance the acquisition of power with the legitimate needs and desires of one’s neighbors. And, of course, the acquisition of vampire-specific power and influence is considered dangerous ground among the unaligned, which is why many prefer to stick to mortal spheres of influence.
Overview
“Independent” Kindred resent or otherwise don’t buy into the neofeudal establishment that is modern Kindred society. They’ve been around as long as any of the covenants, if for no other reason than by virtue of the fact that as long as there is a political movement going on, someone will oppose or take no interest in it. In nights past, some politically independent vampires were occasionally known as “anarchs” or “autarkis,” a reference to their disregard for ironclad laws and orders among the Kindred. Those vampires cared nothing for the proclamations and decrees of heavy-handed Princes, and to a great extent, wished nothing more than to be left alone. In those nights, the unaligned were considered foolish, but ultimately harmless, as long as each individual member was smart enough not to jeopardize himself and his kind through his lawless actions.The spread of an informal unbound sympathy would change all this. Many lawless, practically careless Kindred did much to shake up the world of vampire society in a very short time. Lines were blurred, boundaries crossed and dreadful decisions made, all in the name of independence from the established order, and that was the part that caused a stir. Although what passes for an unaligned “movement” has since settled down a bit (or at least retreated to the shadows of the domains in which such Kindred are found), the damage wrought upon the unbound was done. Tonight, more than a few elders among the covenants have taken the actions of particularly truculent unaligned as representative of the gestalt… or at least capitalized on the aftermath thereof in an attempt to clamp down on such rogues.
Members
Just as the Invictus is plainly attractive to elders, so too is unaligned existence a magnet for the young and downtrodden among the Kindred. Neonates make up the preponderance of the unbound, and new believers discover independent urges with every passing night. Many would-be unbound renounce their affiliations following eye-opening or humiliating experiences in one of the covenants. Sometimes this occurs early on, with a bitter neonate loudly claiming independence for succor and release. Other times, the taste for freedom attracts ancillae who tried for decades to play the vampiric political game but were simply outmaneuvered or disgusted by the toll it took on them over time. The independents probably see more “converts” than any of the covenants, which is yet another reason why these outcasts are often held in such low regard by the established covenants.Although a great many unaligned Kindred are neonates or young ancillae, this is not to say that no elders renounce sectarian ways. A number of older Kindred, primarily those of the Mekhet and Gangrel, prize the unbound for their freedoms, and might even seek to turn their influence toward uniting local unbound under a common banner in hopes of forming a neo-covenant that advances their own agendas. In fact, these few manipulative elders are responsible for the hostile attitudes that certain cells of independents harbor toward more formalized groups of Kindred. This isn’t to say that every elder goes independent in hopes of building a private army. Many elders among the unbound are quite content simply to ignore social strictures that they personally find distasteful. In the eyes of many “established” Kindred, with elder power comes responsibility, and interpersonal pressures occasionally force into covenants those elders who would be more satisfied if they were freed from such duties.
Philosophy
The guiding philosophical principle behind the unaligned mindset is the fundamental conceit that every vampire — like every man — is free. Regardless of clan or age, no Kindred should be forced to bow like some lowly serf before the feet of a provincial undead governor. Not surprisingly, the unbound find the notion of vampiric titles and duties contemptible. They recognize no “Prince” to whom they should show self-effacing obeisance, and they regard the entire notion of formalized social debts as wholly unnecessary. Each of the Damned is, practically by definition, an individual, removed from the brotherhood of mankind and thrust into solitude for all eternity. The unaligned tend to feel that vampire-kind needs no phony system of forced indenture to make sure that each Kindred keeps his word and honors his promises. As alone as they are, vampires realize that all they truly have is their word — without the aid of unnatural and artificial hierarchy — and they act accordingly. Those who don’t are weeded out naturally, and not by the arbitrary will of an elder.This sole idea forms the approximate basis of the independent ideology, but like any solid foundation, it embodies itself in a number of night-to-night practical principles. These trends of the unbound mindset give individual Kindred a sense of self, while providing a necessary grounding in the realities of unlife.
Again, note that these aren’t formalized codes of belief among the unbound. Each independent Kindred is her own Prince, or at least wishes to be. These are simply the most common points of agreement among a non-covenant of ruggedly individual vampires.
Vampiric Nature Is Solitary
To the unbound, the twin notions of freedom and individuality — as they pertain to vampiric existence — have their roots in the simple truth that vampires are solitary creatures. The soul of a Kindred is solitude. It is shut out from the world it knew before the Embrace and forced to survive the Requiem as a wolf among the flock, dipping in and out of the fringes of mortal society while never truly integrating with it.
The same applies to the new world into which a Kindred is thrust upon his Embrace. While many view vampire society as a sub-level resting beneath and within mortal society, the unaligned tend to reject this view on the whole. To them, the notion of a “vampire society” is a shamefully forced contrivance, a deliberate attempt by power-hungry elders to enforce structure and order where there is none. Vampires are bestial, undead predators. Forcing them to coexist under fabricated pretense is a recipe for disaster. Only by respecting the natural Kindred state — that of isolated, independent equality — can harmony be found among the Damned.
Power Corrupts
The unaligned are no fools (by and large). They tend to see how terribly power corrupts among the living. Compound the problem with undeath, literal bloodthirst and the prospect of an eternity of the same, and the result is disaster waiting to happen. The unbound can believe that the Kindred are the last creatures who should be in a position to wield great power over themselves, let alone over one another. They’re called “the Damned” for a reason, and the Damned should not be leading the Damned. That’s a caravan that can only travel straight to the gates of Hell, and the unbound know better than to fall into such an ill-fated line. Better that each vampire concern himself primarily with his own progress along his own road.
This is not to say that independent Kindred eschew power and influence. They are still vampires, and many feel that the only way to fight fire is with fire. Even those who don’t can still appreciate the benefit of amassing great amounts of wealth or sway in various mortal circles. The important distinction is how and in what manner their power negatively affects those of their kind. Being aware of one’s solitary nature does not mean pretending that other Kindred don’t exist. This very mistake has earned more than one well-intentioned unbound her share of trouble. The trick is to learn how to balance the acquisition of power with the legitimate needs and desires of one’s neighbors. And, of course, the acquisition of vampire-specific power and influence is considered dangerous ground among the unaligned, which is why many prefer to stick to mortal spheres of influence.
Type
Political, Faction / Party
Notable Members
Neutral
Carthian: "Selfish and without cause."
As far as most Carthians are concerned, The Unaligned form little more than an unguided talent pool for the Movement. Disorganized, unwilling or unable to commit to structured causes and often fiercely proud, unaligned vampires can be slow to learn the lessons Carthians are all too willing to teach, but The Unaligned are also more likely to see things the Carthian way than any other. At least The Unaligned get an equal voice under most models of Carthian government, so long as they’re willing to call themselves citizens. The attraction of a group that’s willing to defend your right to speak for yourself is undeniable, especially in domains that are dangerous for vampires without any friends.
In fact, disputes with unaligned vampires most often arise when they refuse to throw in with The Carthian Movement in defiance of all the good reasons to do so. Stubborn pride and fiercely individualist tendencies may be tolerable traits to the Carthians, but refusing an honest hand of solidarity under reasonable circumstances can be perceived as suicidal arrogance. Frustration with adamantly independent Kindred is not uncommon within the Movement, especially when the added muscle could really help the Carthian cause, improving conditions for all vampires in a domain.
The unbound enjoy an unusual level of safety and freedom in most Carthian-run domains, although The Unaligned almost always complain that the Movement pressures them to abandon their solitary Status and join up as covenant-mates, whether or not their personal philosophy meshes with the ruling system in the territory. As a potential pool of Allies (and a sure-fire resistance force if another covenant tries to seize control), The Unaligned are usually left to their own devices just to keep them pacified.
As far as most Carthians are concerned, The Unaligned form little more than an unguided talent pool for the Movement. Disorganized, unwilling or unable to commit to structured causes and often fiercely proud, unaligned vampires can be slow to learn the lessons Carthians are all too willing to teach, but The Unaligned are also more likely to see things the Carthian way than any other. At least The Unaligned get an equal voice under most models of Carthian government, so long as they’re willing to call themselves citizens. The attraction of a group that’s willing to defend your right to speak for yourself is undeniable, especially in domains that are dangerous for vampires without any friends.
In fact, disputes with unaligned vampires most often arise when they refuse to throw in with The Carthian Movement in defiance of all the good reasons to do so. Stubborn pride and fiercely individualist tendencies may be tolerable traits to the Carthians, but refusing an honest hand of solidarity under reasonable circumstances can be perceived as suicidal arrogance. Frustration with adamantly independent Kindred is not uncommon within the Movement, especially when the added muscle could really help the Carthian cause, improving conditions for all vampires in a domain.
The unbound enjoy an unusual level of safety and freedom in most Carthian-run domains, although The Unaligned almost always complain that the Movement pressures them to abandon their solitary Status and join up as covenant-mates, whether or not their personal philosophy meshes with the ruling system in the territory. As a potential pool of Allies (and a sure-fire resistance force if another covenant tries to seize control), The Unaligned are usually left to their own devices just to keep them pacified.
Neutral
Invictus: "Cults of the self."
In many domains, keeping tabs on unaligned Kindred is a major part of The Invictus mission, a key component in the covenant’s campaign against disorder. This may mean anything from Shadowing known agitators to bringing troublemakers to the Sheriff to posing as agents provocateurs among the rabble to lead them into actions that allow the First Estate to clamp down on every unaligned vampire in the city. This kind of monitoring of unaligned activity is one of the key tasks elders assign to neonates and younger ancillae on a nightly basis.
For the childe of an Invictus Kindred to become unaligned is a deeply embarrassing event for a sire — and one that rarely goes unpunished. Elders have been known to launch attacks at their own childe’s influences — minions and unaligned Allies — in response. At the extreme, some in the First Estate have been known to put their own childe into Torpor rather than allow the childe to shame them in such a way. Defecting from The Invictus is bad enough, but leaving society altogether — essentially Throwing away every advantage that might help one throughout the course of the Requiem — is seen as an intolerable insult. On more than one occasion in the history of The Invictus, an elder has taken it upon herself to destroy all unaligned Kindred after her favorite childe was “seduced away by the lying rabble.” While that is not the standard response to a wayward childe, The Unaligned do often suffer from a notable increase in unwanted scrutiny any time an Invictus childe opts to rebel by disappearing into the underbrush of The Unaligned. Should the First Estate come to the conclusion that The Unaligned are actually actively recruiting from Invictus ranks — actually undermining Kindred society — there will be hell to pay.
The eldest of Invictus elders sometimes have difficulty telling the difference between unaligned Kindred and members of The Carthian Movement. To such aged monsters, Carthian coteries are little more than political cults. Often, Carthian states resemble nothing so much as vagrants on the stoop of civilization. This underestimation sometimes works in the Carthians’ favor.
Should an unaligned vampire manage to reach elder Status, The Invictus might extend a formal invitation to him to join the First Estate, but such invitations are not usually extended with much enthusiasm, as Kindred who have been unaligned for so long are rarely felt to possess the discipline necessary to function as members of the First Estate’s tight hierarchy. That kind of charity is more often intended as a demonstration or maneuver on the part of the inviting Kindred than it is a boon for the invited.
The Unaligned
Though other covenants may get the covenant’s unadulterated hostility, the First Estate saves its deepest, most absolute contempt for The Unaligned. This rabble is inevitably among the greatest threats to the Masquerade in any city in which unaligned vampires are found. In the eyes of The Invictus, The Unaligned are like plague rats, scurrying around out of sight spreading disorder like a blight through Kindred society. To the First Estate’s way of thinking, The Unaligned are an impoverished lot, wholly lacking in loyalty and self-discipline. They possess no sense of history, no awareness of their place in the Requiem and no higher principles to guide their nightly disruptions than what they want to do. In the absence of any self-discipline, their only loyalty is to themselves, and as far as The Invictus is concerned, that may as well be loyalty to the Beast, given the trouble such isolation breeds.In many domains, keeping tabs on unaligned Kindred is a major part of The Invictus mission, a key component in the covenant’s campaign against disorder. This may mean anything from Shadowing known agitators to bringing troublemakers to the Sheriff to posing as agents provocateurs among the rabble to lead them into actions that allow the First Estate to clamp down on every unaligned vampire in the city. This kind of monitoring of unaligned activity is one of the key tasks elders assign to neonates and younger ancillae on a nightly basis.
For the childe of an Invictus Kindred to become unaligned is a deeply embarrassing event for a sire — and one that rarely goes unpunished. Elders have been known to launch attacks at their own childe’s influences — minions and unaligned Allies — in response. At the extreme, some in the First Estate have been known to put their own childe into Torpor rather than allow the childe to shame them in such a way. Defecting from The Invictus is bad enough, but leaving society altogether — essentially Throwing away every advantage that might help one throughout the course of the Requiem — is seen as an intolerable insult. On more than one occasion in the history of The Invictus, an elder has taken it upon herself to destroy all unaligned Kindred after her favorite childe was “seduced away by the lying rabble.” While that is not the standard response to a wayward childe, The Unaligned do often suffer from a notable increase in unwanted scrutiny any time an Invictus childe opts to rebel by disappearing into the underbrush of The Unaligned. Should the First Estate come to the conclusion that The Unaligned are actually actively recruiting from Invictus ranks — actually undermining Kindred society — there will be hell to pay.
The eldest of Invictus elders sometimes have difficulty telling the difference between unaligned Kindred and members of The Carthian Movement. To such aged monsters, Carthian coteries are little more than political cults. Often, Carthian states resemble nothing so much as vagrants on the stoop of civilization. This underestimation sometimes works in the Carthians’ favor.
Should an unaligned vampire manage to reach elder Status, The Invictus might extend a formal invitation to him to join the First Estate, but such invitations are not usually extended with much enthusiasm, as Kindred who have been unaligned for so long are rarely felt to possess the discipline necessary to function as members of the First Estate’s tight hierarchy. That kind of charity is more often intended as a demonstration or maneuver on the part of the inviting Kindred than it is a boon for the invited.
Neutral
Lancea Sanctum: "Iconoclasts and apostates."
The unbound are simply those Kindred who have yet to make sense of their curse because we have yet to explain it to the best of our ability,” wrote a Sanctified elder of New York. In general, it can be said that The Lancea Sanctum regards unaligned vampires as only partially formed people. Some may have no exposure whatsoever to The Testament of Longinus, and so cannot yet be fairly judged. Some may have had no contact at all with Kindred society. Some may even be fulfilling God’s design without understanding the profound importance of their actions. The lone vampire, lurking in the shadowy stairwells of the city, who encounters mortals only when he sneaks into their pens to carry off a carcass, could be held up as a symbol of fearless predation. Like a noble savage, he could be brought to the parish pews and educated in the true meaning of his simple but admirable ways.
Independent Kindred are common subjects of Sanctified Sermons and frequent targets of Sanctified evangelism. In Monachal parables, the unbound are often referred to like those sorry vampires who fed and died before the Damnation of Longinus, with a sad hopefulness that something may yet be done for their souls. More modern views see The Unaligned as “predators on the verge of becoming,” as that Manhattan sermonizer wrote. Whether they are becoming admirable monsters or blasphemous heathens varies, and is always in question.
The Unaligned are the great, roaming flocks The Lancea Sanctum seeks to convert. All other vampires come to the Sanctified tangled in ideologies, loyalties, and ties to other covenants, but the unbound are the sort of cursed masses Monachus wrote about. Each is a chance for a Sanctified Priest to become a preacher and Mentor. Each is a chance for a member of The Lancea Sanctum to do unto another what was done unto him. Each is both a snarling monster in the shadows of undead society and a misguided convert-to-be. It’s not unfair to say that The Lancea Sanctum has romanticized the unknown quantities of unaligned vampires.
Each unaligned vampire is a unique case, so no two partnerships between independent vampires and The Lancea Sanctum are quite alike. Perhaps the only generalization that can be made is this: The Lancea Sanctum makes examples of the unbound whenever possible. Sometimes this means a fiery execution. Sometimes this means a subtle and slow conversion.
The Lancea Sanctum grants temporary sanctuary to unaligned Kindred just so word of the covenant’s generosity might spread through independent circles. Special grants of feeding ground and invitations to no-strings-attached covenant rites may be offered to keep an independent and her Contacts within shouting distance of the covenant. A few get away with things even Sanctified Kindred would be jealous of, including trespassing, poaching, and, very rarely, siring. Only when an unbound vampire becomes more trouble than she’s worth do the Sanctified eliminate her (and much chance of converting her allies). Of course, an unbound vampire isn’t worth much in well-populated domains.
The Lancea Sanctum is only too happy to make special arrangements for the employment of unaligned vampires for odd jobs as inconspicuous subway-riding couriers, unexpected gas-can-carrying assassins or tuxedoed players in some political theatrics at court. The covenant always pays, at least in part, with rewards likely to pull the independent into the fold (such as room for a Haven in Sanctified territory). The LanceaSanctum, as an organization, is extremely patient and farsighted — much more so than any lone vampire is likely to be. Sanctified leaders understand Kindred impulses and behavior quite well, possibly better than an unaligned vampire understands herself, and may be willing to grant wealth or some mystical power to an independent if such an investment is likely to be rewarded with valuable converts. Vampires who accept such grants should [are wise to?] know what they’re getting into.
The unbound are simply those Kindred who have yet to make sense of their curse because we have yet to explain it to the best of our ability,” wrote a Sanctified elder of New York. In general, it can be said that The Lancea Sanctum regards unaligned vampires as only partially formed people. Some may have no exposure whatsoever to The Testament of Longinus, and so cannot yet be fairly judged. Some may have had no contact at all with Kindred society. Some may even be fulfilling God’s design without understanding the profound importance of their actions. The lone vampire, lurking in the shadowy stairwells of the city, who encounters mortals only when he sneaks into their pens to carry off a carcass, could be held up as a symbol of fearless predation. Like a noble savage, he could be brought to the parish pews and educated in the true meaning of his simple but admirable ways.
Independent Kindred are common subjects of Sanctified Sermons and frequent targets of Sanctified evangelism. In Monachal parables, the unbound are often referred to like those sorry vampires who fed and died before the Damnation of Longinus, with a sad hopefulness that something may yet be done for their souls. More modern views see The Unaligned as “predators on the verge of becoming,” as that Manhattan sermonizer wrote. Whether they are becoming admirable monsters or blasphemous heathens varies, and is always in question.
The Unaligned are the great, roaming flocks The Lancea Sanctum seeks to convert. All other vampires come to the Sanctified tangled in ideologies, loyalties, and ties to other covenants, but the unbound are the sort of cursed masses Monachus wrote about. Each is a chance for a Sanctified Priest to become a preacher and Mentor. Each is a chance for a member of The Lancea Sanctum to do unto another what was done unto him. Each is both a snarling monster in the shadows of undead society and a misguided convert-to-be. It’s not unfair to say that The Lancea Sanctum has romanticized the unknown quantities of unaligned vampires.
Each unaligned vampire is a unique case, so no two partnerships between independent vampires and The Lancea Sanctum are quite alike. Perhaps the only generalization that can be made is this: The Lancea Sanctum makes examples of the unbound whenever possible. Sometimes this means a fiery execution. Sometimes this means a subtle and slow conversion.
The Lancea Sanctum grants temporary sanctuary to unaligned Kindred just so word of the covenant’s generosity might spread through independent circles. Special grants of feeding ground and invitations to no-strings-attached covenant rites may be offered to keep an independent and her Contacts within shouting distance of the covenant. A few get away with things even Sanctified Kindred would be jealous of, including trespassing, poaching, and, very rarely, siring. Only when an unbound vampire becomes more trouble than she’s worth do the Sanctified eliminate her (and much chance of converting her allies). Of course, an unbound vampire isn’t worth much in well-populated domains.
The Lancea Sanctum is only too happy to make special arrangements for the employment of unaligned vampires for odd jobs as inconspicuous subway-riding couriers, unexpected gas-can-carrying assassins or tuxedoed players in some political theatrics at court. The covenant always pays, at least in part, with rewards likely to pull the independent into the fold (such as room for a Haven in Sanctified territory). The LanceaSanctum, as an organization, is extremely patient and farsighted — much more so than any lone vampire is likely to be. Sanctified leaders understand Kindred impulses and behavior quite well, possibly better than an unaligned vampire understands herself, and may be willing to grant wealth or some mystical power to an independent if such an investment is likely to be rewarded with valuable converts. Vampires who accept such grants should [are wise to?] know what they’re getting into.
Neutral
Ordo Dracul: "Usually beneath notice. Usually."
The Ordo Dracul draws a clear distinction between Kindred who simply Haven’t joined a covenant, either because they have not had the opportunity to do so or because they have not found one that suits their needs, and those who consciously choose to eschew Kindred society. The former are potential recruits, free of other covenant influences, considered on an individual basis. The latter may have a spark of determination and independence in the face of eternity that the Dragons find impressive.
Unaligned vampires often regard the vampiric condition As One of solitary predation. The Ordo Dracul doesn’t necessarily agree, but at least these Kindred are thinking about the vampiric condition at all. Many vampires, without the benefit of a sire’s or a covenant’s guidance, perish soon after the Embrace, either at the hands of other monsters or from meeting the sun in dogged refusal to accept what they have become. The Unaligned who endure, however, often have the ability to look into the face of their Curse, to examine it, to challenge it and question it — and that The Ordo Dracul finds impressive.
Of course, The Ordo Dracul is well aware that an unaligned Kindred who deliberately chooses his independence probably isn’t going to cope well with the strict rules of the covenant. If the Dragons offer membership to such a vampire, they make it very clear that they offer no special treatment, no allowances for showboating, “being a lone wolf,” “doing your own thing” or any of the other liberal claptrap from recent mortal generations. The Ordo Dracul was founded upon discipline and meticulous attention to detail. While this attitude drives many potential recruits away, some discover that the rigors of the covenant are just what they needed to find a place in the Danse Macabre.
These sorts of unaligned Kindred are subjected to the heaviest indoctrination the Order can muster, long before they are allowed to study the Coils. The Ordo Dracul makes it very clear that once a vampire becomes a Dragon, she should expect to remain a Dragon — quitting the covenant is tantamount to betrayal, The Ordo Dracul does not wish to risk even one lesson of one Coil being carelessly spread across the world by a wayward ex-Dragon.
The Ordo Dracul draws a clear distinction between Kindred who simply Haven’t joined a covenant, either because they have not had the opportunity to do so or because they have not found one that suits their needs, and those who consciously choose to eschew Kindred society. The former are potential recruits, free of other covenant influences, considered on an individual basis. The latter may have a spark of determination and independence in the face of eternity that the Dragons find impressive.
Unaligned vampires often regard the vampiric condition As One of solitary predation. The Ordo Dracul doesn’t necessarily agree, but at least these Kindred are thinking about the vampiric condition at all. Many vampires, without the benefit of a sire’s or a covenant’s guidance, perish soon after the Embrace, either at the hands of other monsters or from meeting the sun in dogged refusal to accept what they have become. The Unaligned who endure, however, often have the ability to look into the face of their Curse, to examine it, to challenge it and question it — and that The Ordo Dracul finds impressive.
Of course, The Ordo Dracul is well aware that an unaligned Kindred who deliberately chooses his independence probably isn’t going to cope well with the strict rules of the covenant. If the Dragons offer membership to such a vampire, they make it very clear that they offer no special treatment, no allowances for showboating, “being a lone wolf,” “doing your own thing” or any of the other liberal claptrap from recent mortal generations. The Ordo Dracul was founded upon discipline and meticulous attention to detail. While this attitude drives many potential recruits away, some discover that the rigors of the covenant are just what they needed to find a place in the Danse Macabre.
These sorts of unaligned Kindred are subjected to the heaviest indoctrination the Order can muster, long before they are allowed to study the Coils. The Ordo Dracul makes it very clear that once a vampire becomes a Dragon, she should expect to remain a Dragon — quitting the covenant is tantamount to betrayal, The Ordo Dracul does not wish to risk even one lesson of one Coil being carelessly spread across the world by a wayward ex-Dragon.
Hostile
Unsurprisingly, Belial’s Brood is very sympathetic to the Unbound’s lot in vampiric society. Next to the Brood, the Unbound seem to make up the majority of the nomadic vampires traveling between the domains of the sedentary covenants. The Unbound’s strong spirit and refusal to be co-opted into a system in which they have no stake strikes a resonant chord amongst the independent- minded vampires of Belial’s Brood. Unfortunately, unaligned vampires are sometimes persecuted for the actions of the Brood. Although this is an unintended consequence of Forsworn masquerading as Unbound, the Brood makes no apologies. While the Forsworn respect the Unbound, the Brood feels no compunction to make the Unbound’s unlives any easier. If the Unbound meet increased animosity from the other covenants because of the Brood’s actions, this will only serve to increase the Unbound’s support for the Brood or sharpen their perseverance.
Often the Unbound are seen as a natural reservoir of recruits for Belial’s Brood. Unfettered by any single ideology, strong willed and fiercely committed to their liberty, the independents must find the Brood’s respect refreshing. While this is an idealized view of the Unbound, it is a common one. In truth, the Unbound’s view on Belial’s Brood is as varied as the vampires themselves. Few amongst the factions seek to antagonize the Unbound needlessly, for the factions understand that their nomadic coveys often depend on such unattached vampires when first arriving in a domain. Although the Forsworn are given no official sanction or protection, they know it is in their best interests to endear themselves to the Unbound, or at least to avoid making enemies of them. The Roaring Serpent seems especially interested in the Unbound. To this faction, the Unbound are the wayward children of the Adversary and, unlike others, have yet to be corrupted by the fanciful lies of the other covenants. While this view certainly paints the Unbound as naïve babes-in-the-wilderness, the Archons’ dramatic powers often quiet those who would take offense.
Brood coveys are rarely hesitant to ally themselves with unaffiliated vampires, for no implicit recognition of a heretical concept or offending office is necessary. The Unbound are vampires, plain and simple, and few amongst their number claim knowledge of the true mysteries of undeath. In addition, that some Forsworn were Unbound themselves before dedicating themselves to the Pursuit and taking part in a Crux, and the ease with which these two groups find common ground, should come as no surprise. Of course, this close association also means that other vampires are notoriously suspicious of the Unbound. While this would lead some to believe that Belial’s Brood would come to the aid of the independents when called, this is rarely the case. Coveys certainly help those Unbound whom the coveys have come to rely upon, but many Forsworn think it is distasteful to coddle those loners who remain outside the fold.
Many Unbound in the modern nights find religion distasteful and keep Forsworn vampires at arm’s length because their passion for the Pursuit smacks of fanaticism. Some coveys with the Brood have been known to take the exceptional step of taking Unbound vampires under their wing. This prolonged process of initiation smacks of recruitment, and many factions are displeased with the leniency shown to these newcomers. The Throne of Smokeless Fire, known for its particularity brutal rites of initiation, has had open revolts about young coveys being too soft on Unbound initiates. While the Djinn tend to handle this matter by violently interfering in “flawed” initiation rites, most other factions are still confident that the Pursuit will eventually weed out the weak.
Often the Unbound are seen as a natural reservoir of recruits for Belial’s Brood. Unfettered by any single ideology, strong willed and fiercely committed to their liberty, the independents must find the Brood’s respect refreshing. While this is an idealized view of the Unbound, it is a common one. In truth, the Unbound’s view on Belial’s Brood is as varied as the vampires themselves. Few amongst the factions seek to antagonize the Unbound needlessly, for the factions understand that their nomadic coveys often depend on such unattached vampires when first arriving in a domain. Although the Forsworn are given no official sanction or protection, they know it is in their best interests to endear themselves to the Unbound, or at least to avoid making enemies of them. The Roaring Serpent seems especially interested in the Unbound. To this faction, the Unbound are the wayward children of the Adversary and, unlike others, have yet to be corrupted by the fanciful lies of the other covenants. While this view certainly paints the Unbound as naïve babes-in-the-wilderness, the Archons’ dramatic powers often quiet those who would take offense.
Forsworn–Unbound Partnerships
Other factions within the Brood take a dimmer view of the Unbound as a whole, but find their lack of orthodoxy a point in their favor. Since many coveys claim to be Unbound when they are pestered by vampires who claim to rule a domain, the coveys often make alliances within the greater independent community. Unbound vampires seem to have a deeper respect for each others’ privacy, and the Forsworn take advantage of that to shield themselves from unwanted attention. In some domains, a Brood covey becomes the cornerstone of an Unbound community, enforcing the territorial “rights” of other Unbound in exchange for acceptance within the city. Although these arrangements are often short-lived once the covey’s Pursuit draws too much attention, a domain with a large Unbound population could allow a covey to operate for quite some time before the Powers That Be could muster the courage to move against the Brood openly.Brood coveys are rarely hesitant to ally themselves with unaffiliated vampires, for no implicit recognition of a heretical concept or offending office is necessary. The Unbound are vampires, plain and simple, and few amongst their number claim knowledge of the true mysteries of undeath. In addition, that some Forsworn were Unbound themselves before dedicating themselves to the Pursuit and taking part in a Crux, and the ease with which these two groups find common ground, should come as no surprise. Of course, this close association also means that other vampires are notoriously suspicious of the Unbound. While this would lead some to believe that Belial’s Brood would come to the aid of the independents when called, this is rarely the case. Coveys certainly help those Unbound whom the coveys have come to rely upon, but many Forsworn think it is distasteful to coddle those loners who remain outside the fold.
Many Unbound in the modern nights find religion distasteful and keep Forsworn vampires at arm’s length because their passion for the Pursuit smacks of fanaticism. Some coveys with the Brood have been known to take the exceptional step of taking Unbound vampires under their wing. This prolonged process of initiation smacks of recruitment, and many factions are displeased with the leniency shown to these newcomers. The Throne of Smokeless Fire, known for its particularity brutal rites of initiation, has had open revolts about young coveys being too soft on Unbound initiates. While the Djinn tend to handle this matter by violently interfering in “flawed” initiation rites, most other factions are still confident that the Pursuit will eventually weed out the weak.