Alexandrians
by Robert Mayberry (15 Feb 96)
Nickname: (None yet, though some Anarchs have taken to calling them
"Librarians", a name that seems to please them.)
General Information: The Alexandrians are very new, appearing only in the
past few years. Yet they claim to have ancient roots. They seem similar to
the Tremere, in both abilities and loyalties, but their goals and
philosophies are completely different. They are almost exclusively Western
in origen, and yet their beliefs have a distinct Asian bent. They are a
riddle within an enigma. Rumors portray them as Asian Kindred, as a
bloodline of Tremere spies or Inconnu agents, and even connect them with the
True Brujah or Salubri.
They themselves claim to be descendants of a mystic and secretive order
dating back to the days of Egypt, where they say they existed in a search
for knowledge and enlightenment. They claim to be responsible for both the
construction and care of the Alexandrian Library, from which they are named.
After its destruction, and a period of wandering, they say they have
returned to the West to study the Jyhad and found a second library. The few
Kindred who remember those days cannot deny that some shadowy group
controlled the Library, but scoff at the idea that a whole bloodline could
remain so hidden for so long, only to reveal themselves now. Indeed, no
elders have been identified, and no Kindred has stepped forward to claim his
childer, leading some to suspect the worst.
Alexandrians follow a philosophy of enlightenment through practice and
study. They see studies of supernatural lore, martial arts, and mystic power
as different sides of the same pursuit of mental, physical, and spiritual
perfection. This quest for knowledge will often cause them to try to become
involved at the periphery of Kindred society, becoming just involved enough
to learn the intricacies of the Jyhad without being pulled into the game
themselves. Unlike many Kindred who seek enlightenment, the Alexandrians do
not believe that gaining power over mortals or participating in the
machinations of Elysium is necessarily wrong. "So long as we remain in the
background, taking only the power necessary for survival and comfort," they
claim, "we will be safe from the dangers of Jyhad, whether they threaten
body, mind or spirit."
In recent years, their study of Thaumaturgy and their unique philosophies
have lead them to become trusted advisors to Princes and other powerful
Kindred. While some claim that they are dangerous and sinister manipulators,
most have found them a convenient route to mystical aid without having to
deal with the Tremere. In their favor, this bloodline is entirely contained
within the Camarilla. While they make excellent advisors and magicians, they
are sometimes seen as manipulators who quietly manipulate Elders.
As they share an interest in Thaumaturgy with the Tremere, they will often
share magical lore, and have maintained a cordial though strained
relationship (despite many attempts to play the two bloodlines against one
another). Alexandrians try to ignore the draw of power, taking only what is
needed for safety and comfort, and will usually defer to the rule of the
Prince and Elders of a city. They will also go to great lengths to avoid
offending the Tremere, while maintaining their independence from them. Some
see this as evidence that they are linked, while other believe that they bow
to the Clan's wishes out of fear for their unlives.
The Alexandrians themselves do maintain close ties with one another, but
they are more an informal brotherhood which resembles the ties of the
Nosferatu or Gangrel, with whom they have cultivated something of a
friendship. They remain in frequent contact with their 'Brothers' through
telepathic rituals. Alexandrians tend to be quiet and contemplative, and are
quite shy. Despite this (or perhaps because of this), Alexandrians have an
information network on a par with the Nosferatu, dealing with all forms of
supernatural conflict. The difference is, they do not sell secrets, and will
not reveal them to any but others of their blood and the few good friends
they make.
Most Alexandrians are quiet and reserved. They tend to remain in the
background at Kindred social functions. Often, they will not take an active
part in anything unless asked. Nevertheless, they are friendly and helpful
when met one-on-one, and will rarely give away a secret held in confidence.
Most are particular about their Havens, and will keep a separate room where
they meet visitors. The few they allow into their Libraries are rare and
fortunate, indeed.
They are known to study the martial arts, harnessing this power into a new
Discipline. Most choose not to use their powers on others, unless in danger.
Many anarchs see this unwillingness as a sign of weakness. The few Kindred
who have made the mistake of fighting them will attest, though, that they
are formidable fighters.
Appearance: Most Alexandrians are of Western races, though a sizable
minority are Indian or Asian. Most are male, though there are some females.
What they all share is a conservative, quiet mode of dress similar to the
younger Ventrue (though more loose to allow for their martial arts). When
alone, they tend to dress in comfortable, simple garments. Most carry packs
with various ritual implements, and sometimes a melee weapon or two.
Haven: Alexandrians tend to live in quiet, upper class neighborhoods, where
they can study in peace. Their Havens usually contain various Thaumaturgical
tools and reagents, and they often collect extensive occult libraries.
Usually, they will keep at least one copy of their library on computer
disks. Alexandrians are somewhat particular about their Havens, and will
very rarely let a visitor in past their guest room.
Background: Researchers, librarians, computer experts, and anyone else who
seeks knowledge and peace are all potential Alexandrians. However, usually
those Embraced are strong willed and socially adept. Most are Embraced at
their physical or mental peak. Undercover agents are also Embraced.
Alexandrians are very picky about who they Embrace, and may spend years
searching for just the right Childe. Those who rely on blunt, brute strength
or physical confrontation to solve problems, though, are never selected.
Apprenticeships: Like Tremere, Alexandrians go through extended
apprenticeships. They are taught the powers of Auspex first. Then they are
taught Thaumaturgy and Do. During this time, the apprentice builds up his
knowledge and his library. Finally, they are taken to one of several secret
havens (called Enclaves) and are taught the secrets of the bloodline,
including Id. Also, another Discipline such as Obfuscate, Celerity, and
Obeah(!) is taught at its most basic level. This is where agents of the
Tremere impress the Alexandrian with Thaumaturgical restraints, to prevent
him from ever (willingly, unwillingly, or magically) revealing these
secrets. Most Camarilla Kindred who know of this retreat think that this is
some kind of vision quest. Inside jokes like these help morale. Player
characters will almost always begin campaigns with some Thaumaturgy, unless
they want to begin as unknowing pawns of the Alexandrians. Those who refuse
to participate or who disagree with the actions of the Bloodline are
regretfully and painlessly killed.
Character Creation: Alexandrians usually have Dilettante, Professional, or
Investigator concepts. Their Demeanors tend to be weak (Conformist, Loner,
Confidant, or Traditionalist), concealing very strong Natures (Visionary,
Director, Architect, Judge, or Fanatic). Mental Attributes and Knowledge
abilities are almost always primary, but they tend to be strong socially as
well. All Alexandrians have a Mentor, and most have at least some Status,
Resources, Generation, and Allies. For information on Do, see the Mage
Player's Guide (Storytellers should feel free to limit initial ratings in
this ability to one or two dots).
Disciplines: Auspex, Thaumaturgy, Id
Note that the Discipline of Id is a Bloodline secret, and is to be used
sparingly. Most Kindred assume that their martial arts skill, Do, is their
third Discipline. Teaching either is a crime, and all Brothers are
mystically compelled not to reveal these secrets.
Weaknesses: The worst of the rumors are correct. The Alexandrians are
actually a bloodline of the Tremere, acting independently of the Pyramid,
but in its interest. Only the Tremere of the Inner Council are aware of
this, though Tremere are instructed not to interfere with the Alexandrians.
Powerful rituals ensure that no Alexandrian can ever reveal bloodline
secrets, forcibly or otherwise. The Inner Council will often filter
directives through the bloodline's grapevine, and have the power to enforce
their orders using the Thaumaturgical hold they have over the Brothers. This
is rare: the Alexandrians are willing pawns of their parent clan.
Their second weakness deals with their power to control the mind. This power
doesn't help them fight the Beast, but it does give them some measure of
peace from the passions and conflicts that rage in anyone. Alexandrians
sleep quite deeply, and must add three to difficulties to awaken during the
day. This makes them quite vulnerable to attack, and most ingratiate
themselves to the Elders as quickly as possible to reduce the threat from
ghouls and hunters sent by enemies.
Preferred Paths: Almost every Alexandrian tries to hold onto his Humanity. A
few, however, have adopted the Path of Harmony from the Sabbat, or use Paths
found in ancient records (known to the Black Hand as the Path of the
Scorched Heart, and the Path of Self Focus). While most Alexandrians are
aware of Paths, few actually adopt them unless they feel that their Humanity
has been irretrievably compromised. Starting characters should not take
these Paths; if they want them, they will have to learn them the hard way
(and with Storyteller approval).
Organization: Physically, Alexandrians rarely meet. However, they are in
almost constant telepathic contact, and will communicate often. They
consider their bloodline a temple supported by five Columns: Secrecy,
Knowledge, Influence and Brotherhood. They often joke among themselves that
they are their own Fifth Column. The Columns stress brotherhood over
enforced loyalty, and infighting is forbidden.
Gaining Bloodline Prestige: Status is conferred by word of mouth as the
Grapevine spreads news of the Brother's accomplishments. Only by defending
the Five Columns can they gain prestige. Preserving the secrecy of their
motives (Tremere ties) and methods (Disciplines) is most important, but
maintaining the Masquerade is vital as well. Learning important information
about the Jyhad or Thaumaturgy is considered best, but everything has value.
Influence is the most prized, since it must be totally secretive. Silent
'advice' to Kindred Elders must never be traced back, and power without
Disciplines is most prized. Finally, all Alexandrians must defend one
another. They practice the Ventrue tradition of always providing safe haven
to anyone of their Blood, and go further to defend and assist each other
without regard for age or prestation. Nevertheless, respect for their few
Elders (though none have been identified) is considered vital. Finally,
learning from their parent Clan's experience, they watch their Bloodline's
image carefully. Great prestige can be earned by improving it.
Quote: "This is none of my concern, my Prince. I am simply a seeker of
knowledge. But since you ask, perhaps there is something I can do for
you..."
Stereotypes:
Mortals
o It is necessary to control some of them for safety. Otherwise,
leave them alone. We face too many dangers already to risk
upsetting their masters.
o "Who?"
The Arcanum
o A few of our ranks come from these mortals, but for the most part
leave them be. As for their knowledge, though, we must posess it
at all costs.
o "No, really, what are you talking about?"
The Inquisition
o Our best friend and our worst enemy. Use them to destroy those who
know our secrets with clean hands. Be sure to avoid their crosses
when they point at you. And let no Kindred know that you use them,
or surely the weight of the Camarilla will crash down upon us.
o "No, I'm serious, tell me or I'll kill you, too."
The Camarilla
o Wise is my Brother who respects his domain. The Camarilla must be
protected. It is simply the best tool we have, and it is the only
way to keep the Jyhad even remotely civilized.
o "If they follow the Traditions, they are welcome. New and
unpredictable, their worst flaw, though, is that their place in
the Jyhad is still to be discovered." - Terrence, Ventrue Archon
The Inconnu
o We know almost nothing about them, and that is simply
unacceptable. They are powerful, they are knowledgeable, and
despite what they would have us believe, they are involved. Up to
their torporous necks. Learn from them, but don't let them know
your secrets. Most importantly, never even think about anything
you don't want them to know when in their presence.
o "There seem to be powerful forces that revolve around members of
this bloodline. We are fairly certain that they are a new
addition, but the possiblilty that they are spies for the Asian
Clans or the Tremere cannot be ruled out. I have it on fairly good
authority that while they are not a branch of the Salubri, they
are strongly influenced by them. More I cannot say, but their
voices carry further and their eyes probe farther than I would
have thought possible for Kindred of their age. I fear that they
are practicing some of our methodologies." - Gaius Marconius,
Monitor of Fresno
The Sabbat
o They are manipulated fools. They think they understand the Beast,
but their Paths are weak. They think they understand the Jyhad,
but they are just tools. And they think they are going to be the
rulers of the world. Leave them their illusions.
o "More tools for the Antediluvians, eh? Well, it won't matter when
I drain them. After learning their secrets, of course." - Joe
Bloggs, Pander Bishop
Assamites
o Very dangerous. The best way to avoid them is not to earn the
wrath of someone powerful and ruthless enough to hire one. They
are watching us. Why, we aren't sure. Some think they want to
enlist us to cure them of the Curse. Others think they know our
secret, and want to destroy us.
o "Never met one, but I hear that they are like soft hearted Tremere
without the ambition. I don't see what all the fuss is about." -
Achmed, Rafiq
Baali
o Yes, we have heard of them. They are like an Inconnu of evil
Kindred. Treat them like Followers of Set, just kill them faster.
And keep a religious symbol on hand. They are far more powerful
than they are said to be. Worst of all, there is, with the Salubri
and our Cousins, a great Jyhad which will eventually involve every
Alexandrian. They of all the Bloodlines of Caine are our greatest
enemies.
o "They were created just to hunt us down. Little do they realize
that, like the eldest amoung them, they may be full of suprises,
but in the end, we will corrupt or kill them all." - The Dominion
Brujah
o There is no way that these were ever scholars. Their elders are
too static to accomplish anything. Their neonates and ancilla are
mindless rebels who are too destructive to accomplish anything.
Even if they ever got power, they would be dictators of the worst
kind, despite their anarchist rhetoric. They could almost be
ignored, were they not such good warriors.
o "Soft little bastards. These lackeys spend all their time reading
books and toadying up to the Elders. They're probably all some
kind of Tremere plot." - Spike, 13th Generation Anarch
Caitiff
o Most are anarchs, and so are the lowliest and most disposable
pawns of all. A few break the mold, though, and are often
associated with strange and unheard of powers. Always remember
that the founders of the Tremere were and are Caitiff (though they
would never admit it now). Befriend them if you can, since they
will shower any who don't spit upon them with devotion. Beware,
though, for their isolation and paranoia make them unpredictable.
o "I've only met one, but he was one of the few so-called
respectable Kindred to show respect and fairness towards myself
and my friends. I don't completely trust him, but I certainly
count him as an ally and fellow traveller." - Maldavis, former
Anarch leader of Chicago
Followers of Set
o They are the real danger. The Sabbat just plays at being evil.
These are the professionals. Never help them, never try to get
them in your debt. Just ignore them, and try to influence their
Final Deaths as quickly as possible.
o "They seem to hate us. That just means that we'll have to kill
them more quickly. The little fools can hide in their libraries
all they want. In the end, it is snakes against bookworms. Care to
place a wager?" - Gabriella Villalobos, Elder of Vienna, VA
Gangrel
o They deal with the Garou, true enough. But they are bit players in
the game. They will be noble, good allies, as long as they don't
know who our friends are. Use them to keep tabs on the Garou, and
help them fight the Wyrm if you can.
o "They are not like us, however removed they seem to be. But they
are friendly, and will occasionally help us." - John Brighton,
Member of Milwaukee Anubi
Giovanni
o They don't seem to any danger at all, at first glance. Beware of
them. They are dangerous, and they are up to something, and they
aren't saying anything. Keep an eye out for disembodied auras when
they are around.
o "We have had few dealings with them, but from what I can see, they
are playing the same game we are, watch and wait. I am not
fooled." - Lorenzo, Liason to Justicar Ventrue
Malkavians
o Who knows? Most of them are irrelevant, but a few are dangerous
beyond anything else. Stay clear of them, and deal with them
through others. They are indeed insane, but their masters aren't.
o "These guys are just begging to be pranked. Quiet as a mouse, I
say. Cloaks and daggers! What are these guys, black belt
librarians from hell? You should see them when they think they are
alone with someone. Tricky, tricky." - Jack Endebox, Ancilla of
Hartford
Nosferatu
o Other Kindred are fools to discount them. They can't see as much
as we do, but they have been looking for far longer, and in places
we could never get to. Cultivate them as allies. Watch for secrecy
with all vigilance. They and their agents are everywhere, and
together, we could be invincible.
o "Bastards. They're up to something. Make that clever bastards,
since we don't know what they are up to. Yet. That's why it's
better to be friends with them. Besides, we trade information
alot. On the inside, we actually aren't that different." - Nathan,
Clan Leader of Washington DC
Ravnos
o They could be powerful, but they aren't. They are irrelevent. It
is better to watch them than ignore them, but they are useless
hedonists and connivers for all their abilities.
o "Damn, they're boring. C'mon guys, live a little!" - Laura
Salubri
o We are more alike than most would realize. Turn them in to the
Tremere, but give them fair warning. They are useful remnants, and
we should preserve their gifts. Watch out for their elders, for
they still walk the earth.
o "More than they seem. There is hope for them, but they must let
their corruptive ties go. Alexander is performing adequately, and
has a bright future. His Bloodline is imaginative, subtle, and
competent in Jyhad, without giving up their humanity. They may be
the best thing to happen to Clan Tremere. All according to plan."
- Balin, Obscenely Powerful Methuselah
Toreador
o Totally useless were it not for their stranglehold on the status
system, they still are vain fools. Appeal to their egos,
compliment their artwork, and stay in the background at parties.
o "They spend too much time with the Gangrel and Nosferatu, and even
more time alone. But they are at least refined ancilla. Shy little
things, though." - Anabell Triabell, Primogen of Chicago
Tremere
o Our Masters and our Cousins, though almost none of them know it.
They are very knowledgable, and very powerful, but they have a
massive image problem. It is not our place to repair their image,
but to exploit it. Trade of mystic lore helps reduce hostility.
o "We are ordered not to interfere with them, so we will not. But
despite their subtlety, we see their power. They seek to exploit
old divisions for their own ends. They seem to know far too much
of our structure and our magic. If allowed, we would gladly crush
them. In the meantime, trading information and mystic power will
prove useful for both our lines." - Travers, 10th Generation
Apprentice
Ventrue
o Underestimated by elders, overestimated by neonates. They hold a
great deal of power, over both Kindred and Kine, but they are
easily manipulated. Their weakness is that since they cannot see
the whole board, they cannot understand the corner they are in,
and don't know the rules of the game. Their strength lies in their
world wide ties to one another.
o "Our greatest triumph. While reluctant to involve themselves, they
are good sources of information. Assist and defend them, they are
an excellent foil to the Tremere. They support our information
networks because our protection is all that keeps them from being
consumed by the Tremere. Keep them close, though, lest they catch
another's notice." - Geoffrey, Elder of Brittain
Princes
o Ultimately, every Prince is a Ventrue, whatever his blood
affiliation might be. Others play for debts, we play for trust.
Once you have his ear, his throne is an unnecessary decoration.
o "They follow the Law, and they are loyal, though uninvolved.
Alexandrians are mainly useful because they have a talent for
seeing past the nonsense, and for knowing the right facts for the
right issue." - Montgomery, Prince of Springfield
Anarchs
o They don't fight well because they don't fight intelligently.
Ultimately, they are losing because even they don't know what they
are fighting for. Befriend them for information, but not more than
any other group.
o "I like them. They tell you what they think without telling you
what to think. Some may be paranoid about them, but as long as
they don't try to bully around everyone else like the Tremere or
Ventrue, I'll give them safe haven in my barony. Besides, how can
you be afraid of any Bloodline that has yet to produce a member
over fifty?" - Charles Fortier, LA Baron
Faeries
o They are strange and (mostly) insane. They are lost to this world,
and almost not worth the trouble to research, as they have already
lost their last chance on Earth.
Ghosts
o Easily manipulated, which is why the Giovanni are so successful.
Watch them, but otherwise ignore them. They are useful spies and
servants - little else.
Lupines
o They are fighting a cause almost lost. Help them if you can, but
hide your involvement. If you can, make friends with them, as the
Wyrm they fight is a danger to the Clan. They are masters of the
Umbra. Study their spirituality, but don't let yourself get too
close.
Mages
o Powerful and skilled. The traditions are useful to study with, and
more fun to be around, but the Technocracy is far more powerful
and useful. Never get too close to either group, and never get
sucked into their War. Ascension requires power that only our
Cousins can provide.
The Blood Bond
o We are students of power, and have learned many things. Yes, we
can break it, but the Valderie is an artificial loyalty of its
own. Never use it except with other Brothers, and only to break a
Bond. Feel free to use it on other Kindred, as long as you don't
publicize it. A good Bond lasts forever, so long as you don't
abuse your power over them. Remember the lesson of the Gargoyles.
Golconda
o It's real, and it is potent. As part of our studies, many seek it,
but we know little more. The only two groups that know of it, the
Salubri and the Inconnu, are both enemies. This makes it difficult
to seek, but more rewarding if found.