Ventrue Awards, Clubs and Societies

[Barnaby Cuthbert]

I found this interesting tidbit about Ventrue awards and societies on the web literally years ago and saved it in an old file for later use but never got around to it.

The website it was hosted on no longer exists, but I saved some the info from it so i thought I'd share. Some of you Ventrue players might find it interesting.

I particularly was amused by the Key Club.

Societies, Orders, and Awards


Within the Ventrue Clan there are sets of societies that help promote and protect the clan in different ways. They are each a sub organization or group within the clan that has a specific set of tasks it, as the group needs to accomplish for the Clan. Each specializes in a certain area, creating a gathering place for those Ventrue who can contribute in different methods and manners. These societies can be knowledge base, internal surveillance, and assistance in the Mortal world to protect our Kind from breaches or ability to help the clan succeed with other clans.


The Iron Circlet Award: Being officially recognized and accepted as a member of Clan Ventrue.

This is the first and most important award bestowed to a Ventrue. Ventrue who distinguish themselves for being Loyal and Trustworthy members of the clan can be awarded (by Primogen, Princes, or Chairpersons) the Iron Circlet: an iron loop attached to a blue ribbon worn on the left breast. The Iron Circlet officially signifies the right to be known as Ventrue and to be accepted as one of the true bloods. Recipients should always list this award among their titles when conducting affairs with Ventrue clansmen.

The Society of The Hague: Serves as a group of adept Ventrue who excel legally in both mortal and kindred society.

The membership of the Society of The Hague distinguishes themselves as lawyers in a clan noted for legal skill. Each member of the Society of The Hague has mastered both mortal law and Camarilla law. (Level-4 in each/Camarilla Lore can be substituted for Camarilla Law if appropriate for your chronicle) Members are added at the discretion of the existing membership. All one need do is apply and wait for approval. Approval is never denied, merely "under review." (for centuries if necessary) Membership entitles one to use the title "The Right Honorable" before their name and guarantees a steady stream of potential clients: accused Kindred hauled before the Prince, Princes seeking counsel at Conclave, Primogen drafting new policies, etc. Members of the Society of The Hague are by tradition forbidden to charge fellow Ventrue for their services. (The society is only open to Ventrue) However, Society members are free (and encouraged) to extract whatever price their services command when dealing with other clans. Ventrue who are legal experts but eschew membership in the Society (many do) can petition the Society for endorsement, an unofficial "bar exam" for Ventrue lawyers. Those who pass are entitled to add the term "Esquire" to their list of titles and are not required to give free representation to Ventrue. (Their unofficial title is "mercenaries.") The Society holds a meeting once a year to discuss precedents, dissect noteworthy cases, and elect a new Advocate General. The use of Dominate to fix the election is overlooked if successful, soundly trounced if discovered. The Society moves its meeting location periodically (with a corresponding name change) to whatever city stands at the forefront of legal innovation. To mark the new millennium, the Society is expected to finally move out of Europe. The yearly gathering is traditionally held every February.

The Sorority of Amastris: Serves as accomplished Ventrue women who have proven leadership abilities.

In recent nights, women have risen to prominence within the clan, proving themselves to be the equals of their male clanmates in many arenas, often working twice as hard to achieve that status. The Sorority of Amastris inducts Ventrue women who have proven their worth in leadership. Founded by and admitting only women, the men of the clan do not take it seriously, dismissing it as a progressive "fad" inspired by the women's liberation movement, and unlikely to last. The women who have been inducted, of course, see it differently. Criteria for membership is not set in stone, but invitations rarely go out to anyone who has not served in a Camarilla office or achieved local Directorate ranking above Associate. (Amastris, wife of Dionysus of Heracluria, established her own city-state by conquering and uniting four settlements.)

The Order of the Crescent Moon (from Berlin by Night, page 15): Serves as an order of Ventrue who have successfully slain a lupine and hold proof of the kill.

"Gustave assigned many Kindred (generally those he suspected of some kind of treachery) the dubious honor of hunting down and killing the Lupines. By 1786, most of the Lupines had been driven away, and those stayed were mercilessly destroyed. Many Lupine pelts adorn the havens of Berlin Ventrue Elders."

Because of the outrage that this could cause among Kindred and Lupines - this Order is not publicized. Proof of eligible membership is a Lupine pelt - acquired from the original Lupine by the Ventrue's own hand (and knife). The award is displayed as a red garter worn on the right arm secured with a silver crescent moon pin. Additional "acquisitions" may be marked with clusters of rubies to indicate greater "achievement." When questioned, Ventrue who display the mark of the Order merely smile. In order to join the Order, one must have sufficient status to avoid indelicate questioning, and lack of humanity sufficient to revel in such things (like skinning a Lupine and keeping their pelt.)

The Order of The White Cross: Ventrue who have destroyed a member of the Sabbat in unassisted combat.

Ventrue who kill a member of the Sabbat in single unaided combat are automatically admitted into the Order of the White Cross, a genteel society of distinguished warriors. Obviously it is possible to be awarded the White Cross without being admitted to the Order, and a significant delay between the two is not uncommon. Ventrue who simultaneously qualify for the White Cross and admission to the Order are permitted to list or describe their award as The White Cross, Distinguished. A Ventrue known as the Knight of the White Cross handles the administration of Order, especially confirming new members. (The position is open to both sexes.) Determining who holds the position and for how long is a process shrouded in secrecy but the position carries with it the authority to create additional distinctions to the White Cross award.

Recent years have seen the addition of the Gold Palm for Heroism and The White Cross with Crimson Piping (for particularly disquieting body counts...)

The White Cross Award: Awarded to Ventrue who have killed, aided or unaided, their first member of the Sabbat in battle.

The Primogen awards the White Cross. If the person is Primogen, the award is made by the Prince (if Ventrue), or Sire (if available). If neither is available, the award is self-administered.

There is less prestige attached to the White Cross if self-administered and Ventrue have been known to allow other Kindred to deliver the coup-de-gras to Sabbat in favor of waiting for more prestigious circumstances. Getting caught doing so is considered by all to be a mark of unprecedented arrogance. Getting away with it is considered unconscionable good luck. The various ceremonies for awarding the White Cross vary from Directorate to Directorate in style and grandeur. Asking, "So how was your Cross awarded?" is a subtle way of obtaining insight into a fellow Ventrue's background.

Lorraine of Chicago, due to her prestigious lineage, was awarded the White Cross in a ceremonial mass that rivaled a coronation in its splendor. Quincy Cullen had the award pounded into his right breast in a battlefield promotion that left little time for niceties. Ventrue recipients of the White Cross are advised to keep careful track of the status and prestige of the Kindred who bestowed the award upon them. Such nitpicky details are essential to the petty rivalries and one-upsmanship endemic to Kindred society.

The Order of the Holy Star: Awarded to Ventrue who have distinguished themselves by achieving complete control over all religious affairs in their domain (OOC: Church Influence x5).

No award within Clan Ventrue seems more innocuous; and none is rooted in deeper depravity. It is awarded by a member of a small cadre of Ventrue who make up the Order and travel around the world when needed to admit new members to their ranks. The ceremony is handled at Directorate meetings and is brief, polite, and subdued. In later nights, the true initiations begin... The Order, like a Masonic temple, has several levels of initiation, each with its own separate agendas, hidden mysterious, rites and rituals. At first the initiate will be called upon to track of members of the Inquisition -- seemingly to keep the tragedies of the past from being repeated. Later, if the initiate is of the "correct mindset", they will be lured into joining their influence with that of their fellow members to send the Inquisition against enemies of the clan and Camarilla worldwide. If the initiate seems worthy, the smaller and smaller cabals within the order may recruit the initiate into any number (in some cases multiple numbers) of secret societies with paranoid religious agendas. One group seeks out and kills mortals who could possibly be the Messiah, others seek the Antichrist, others are Noddist scholars, others still seek Golconda, or the fabled "rebirth." Some seek specific religious items (the grail, for instance) or the birthplace of Moses, or Mohammed, or scan the skies for strange stars. At the very center of it all is an insane 4th generation Methuselah who seeks to bring about Gehenna in order to force her sleeping former lover to awaken from torpor. Nothing else has piqued her interest.

The Court of Many Colors: Ventrue who excel in diplomacy and are representative of
strategic alliances and friendships with particular clans.

Admittance to the court is conferred by the eldest or highest ranking Ventrue in the domain at the request of an existing member of the Many-Colored Court. In modern nights, standards for admittance have (so the Elders grumble) grown rather lax. Clan friendship (as per the merit) is often sufficient for admittance. However, being liked by one or two local clan members is insufficient. Holding a trait of out-of-clan prestige is insufficient. Ventrue candidates must have made *significant*, *lasting* inroads with the clan in question, sufficient to withstand the rigors of time. Because of this, members of the Many Colored Court are in great demand; a resource used by the entire clan. In times of crisis, a few honeyed words from an ambassador of the Court are sufficient to spare the unlife of a clanmate or avoid hostilities. A fact that these ambassadors are only too willing to smugly point out given the opportunity.

To conceal the true nature of this award from non-Ventrue, the name of the award varies from individual to individual. There is a preset selection of colors, so Ventrue "in the know" will always be able to recognize a fellow member and his or her particular specialty. For instance: "awarded the ruby cluster" (denoting a diplomatic relationship with the Toreador) or "recipient of the umber and olive ribbon for distinguished service" (denoting specialties with both the Nosferatu and Gangrel)

With the Anarch Revolt and the formation of the Camarilla, friendships with Tzimisce, Lasombra, and the Independents are no longer publicly claimed by members of the Court. The corresponding colors representing these clans have fallen into obscurity from all but the Eldest Ventrue. With the prohibition by the Justicariate from having dealings with other supernaturals, colors and gemstones allocated for diplomacy with the other supernatural races are no longer publicly claimed.

The colors and gemstones are as follows:

Gangrel: green, olive, and emerald
Malkavian: purple, violet, and amethyst
Nosferatu: brown, umber, and topaz
Toreador: red, scarlet, and ruby
Tremere: black, charcoal, and onyx

There is no color, award, or gemstone for friendship with the Brujah. While it may be advantageous on a case-by-case basis, the smoldering resentment from Carthage and other atrocities colors even this mundane detail of the Ventrue's nightly affairs. Members of the Many Colored Court may choose to be addressed (should they insist upon the formality) in all dealings within the clan as "the distinguished gentleman (woman) from [first domain where acknowledged]" For instance: Lady Genevieve, the distinguished gentlewoman from Kent. Some have taken to wearing rings or jewelry to denote their specialty when meeting with fellow Ventrue. The internal procedures, habits and customs of the court are too numerous to go into here (OOC: feel free to invent them yourselves). It is known that great emphasis is placed on the various titles of members within the court. Some of the known titles include: envoy, consul (or proconsul), legate, and statesman (woman). The relation of these titles to the internal hierarchy is unknown. Members of the court who prefer adornment above and beyond simple jewelry (for instance: at formal Ventrue-only affairs) have been known to wear a colored ribbon on their left breast with the corresponding gemstone attached beneath.

[Barnaby Cuthbert]

The Order of the Kings Justice: Protects the clan from itself, by investigating wrong doings and problems within the Clan.

The Order of Kings' Justice has the primary duty of ensuring the continuing sanctity of Ventrue Tradition in modern society, and the secondary duty of maintaining the security of the Clan. Of late, the last purpose has altered slightly because of continuing misperception of what had been the meaning behind Ventrue "security." Whereas, before, this meant only to provide and
ensure secure means of communication, whether personal or through electronic means, which Clan members could use and benefit from, and to investigate potential infiltrators; now, this purpose has been expanded to include the enormous task of providing Ventrue with members capable of martial prowess, strategy, and military might.


Structure:

---------------Chancellor---------------
            /   /       \  \
Inquisitor_/   /         \  \_Investigator
              /           \ 
Director_____/             \__Director
Judicial Branch                 Martial Branch

Judge                           Knight-Lieutenant

Arbiter                          Knight-Warden

Initiate                         Knight-Squire

The Order of Kings' Justice, having purposes duel in nature, is separated into two branches. One branch, and perhaps the most easily identifiable, possesses both the responsibility and authority the initial incarnation of the Order of Kings' Justice did. The Judicial Branch has the duty of ensuring that Clan Tradition continues to be observed, and should decisions that require the demands of mediation, penalties for actions taken which either threaten Ventrue, or the Traditions of the Scepter, then the hand of the Judicial branch then becomes involved.

The Security Services Branch, however, provides much of what is tangible to Clan Ventrue (securing communication networks, Ventrue assemblies; sometimes, Ventrue themselves), however, are personally rarely seen. Rightly so, because the Security Services Branch is comprised of individuals whose purpose, should they be called upon, includes the martial activities of rescue and retrieval, and retaliatory strikes (once diplomacy has failed).

The Judicial Services Branch
The Judicial Branch has four identifiable positions within: the Branch Director, the Judges, Arbiters, and the Initiates to the Order. The positions and authority are detailed, just below. Certain positions possess the authority to levy judgements, which may be favorable or even highly unfavorable for those involved. The opportunity for appeal is given, however, only one appeal may be exercised in any given case.

Initiate - an Initiate to the Order of Kings' Justice carries no personal authority. Individuals appointed as Initiates most often serve as the "eyes and ears" of the Order. While not possessing any authority, their role is no less important to an organization that depends upon timely reports of notable activities within the Clan. Those appointed to such position are supervised carefully, as it is from these ranks that the majority of Arbiters and Judges are promoted from.

It is rumored the Order sometimes appoints Ventrue whose records for acting as ideal Ventrue are less than stellar, to be able to watch them more carefully, although this has yet to be confirmed. The Initiate colors are green and silver.

Note: an Initiate may be granted temporary authority by those with position of Judge or higher. These temporary grants are always accompanied by the verifiable accompaniment of documentation detailing any temporary grants.

Arbiter - an Arbiter possesses the limited authority to intercede into situations where two or more Ventrue are at odds with each another. Arbiters may offer to mediate, or might be asked to, and if mediation should begin, the Arbiter's judgment in the situation may only be appealed to the Judge which supervises. Arbiters cannot involve themselves in matters without the willed assent of at least one of the involved parties. In as much, with respect only to members of Clan Ventrue, an Arbiter's judgment may decree reparations: losses of status, awards of prestation, loans of influence, money, or even retainers. Aside from this duty, Arbiters will often be tasked with supervising one or more Initiate in their reports, or to act as a Provincial Arbiter, to organize efforts and reports of the many Initiates and Arbiters over which a Judge has given them purview.

The Arbiter colors are blue and silver.

Note: an Arbiter may be granted temporary authority by those with position of Judge or higher. These temporary grants are always accompanied by the verifiable accompaniment of documentation detailing any temporary grants.

Judge - a Judge is often the final authority in any matter which comes to their attention; possessing the authority to involve themselves in any matter which is deemed to potentially be under their purview, Judges are given free reign to investigate and make determinations/judgments which are nearly final in every respect - the decision of a Judge may only be appealed to the Director of the Judicial Branch. A Judge may levy punishment against any Ventrue of equal standing or less of up to, but not including, Final Death.

The colors for a Judge are red and silver.

Judicial Director - as Branch Director, the Judicial Director oversees and directs Ventrue who have been appointed to positions within the Judicial Branch of the Order of Kings' Justice. The Judicial Director possesses the full authority of a Judge, excepting that the Director may levy punishments against Ventrue of greater standing within the Clan. Decisions made by the Judicial Director may be appealed to the Chancellor of the Order.

The Judicial Director appoints Judges, Arbiters, and Initiates to the Order.

The colors for a Director are purple and silver.

The Security Services Branch
Prior to the outline of the positions of the Security branch, their duties and authority, it should be noted the services of Security Branch members might only be active in specific situations,
as outlined below:

- Actions which involve non-Ventrue (rescue operations, or retaliatory strikes, etc.) shall only be at the discretion of the Chancellor, through the Director of the Martial Order, or by situational basis at the discretion of an Inquisitor present.

- Inquisitors, Investigators, or Judges have the authority to call to service members of the Martial Branch, to assist them in the performance of their own designated duties without a prior notification, or requisition, should any such members be on hand, and the nature of the situation requires immediate action be taken.

- Arbiters have the authority to call to service members of the Martial Branch, without prior notification or requisition, should such members be on hand, and the nature of the situation requires immediate attention - however, the duty of such members is -only- to ensure safety of the Arbiter.

- Inquisitors, Investigators, Judges, or Arbiters shall normally requisition services of members of the Martial Branch through the Director of the Martial Branch (copies of such requisitions should also be sent to the Chancellor).

- Individual Ventrue may request the defensive services of members of the Martial order, who may either accept, or may be appointed by a superior. In such cases, the duty of the Martial Order is -only- to provide for the safety of their charge.

The Security Branch has four identifiable positions within: the Branch Director (who is known as the Knight-Marshall), Knight-Lieutenant, Knight-Warden, and Knight-Squire. The responsibilities and authority of each position is outlined, briefly, below.

The colors for all members of the Security Services branch are cobalt and silver, with metal pins resembling ropework that designates rank by metal type and knots present.

Knight-Squire - a Knight-Squire is a recruit into the Security Services Branch. They are awarded a certain degree of leeway in the pursuit of personal service offered to fellow Ventrue, however, under no circumstance are they sent on any missions alone. They are carefully observed for problems with authority, and how they handle the responsibilities that will be expected of them at higher ranks, and how they function in an environment where teamwork is necessary.

The pin that Knight-Squires wear is bronze and bears one knot.

Knight-Warden - a Knight-Warden has proven himself or herself capable enough that they might bear such title, instead of that of Squire. Knight-Warden's comprise the majority of the Security Services Branch, and their numbers manage most missions assigned to it, and may be assigned to do so individually.

The pin that Knight-Wardens wear is brass and bears two knots.

Knight-Lieutenant - a Knight-Lieutenant has proven himself or herself not only capable personally and working within a teamwork environment, they have somehow demonstrated exceptional skill in organization, direction, and the management of individuals tasked with martial objectives. Knight-Lieutenants will rarely perform a task which could be achieved by individuals they could assign it to, although will coordinate and lead efforts which require teams to handle them.

The pin that Knight-Lieutenants wear is silver and bears three knots.

Security Services Director (Knight-Marshall) - the Knight-Marshall bears the responsibility of overseeing and directing Ventrue who have been appointed to positions within the Security Services Branch of the Order of Kings' Justice. The Knight-Marshall possesses the authority of a Judge, however, it may only be used in situations that require immediate attention of the Order of Kings' Justice. The Knight-Marshall appoints Lieutenants, Wardens, and Recruits.

The pin that the Knight-Marshall wears is gold and bears four knots.

The Chancellor, Inquisitors, and Investigators
The Chancellor, and those who are appointed special agents of the Order of Kings' Justice stand above, and apart from the two branches outlined previously. Direct involvement in matters by these individuals is rare, however should situations demand their involvement, the potential for actions, or judgments which are grave becomes virtually certain should their personal investigations displease.

Inquisitors and Investigators possess authority to take extraordinary actions independent of supervision or prior allowance. These actions are always taken very seriously, and should any decisions made by individuals at this point prove irresponsible, the retribution for any irresponsible actions taken made could be extremely severe. The colors for both agents are black and silver; however, each position possesses identifiable badges to distinguish them. Both special agents report directly to the Chancellor, and in the performance of their duties, are answerable only to the Chancellor. Furthermore, it is rumored not all Investigators and Inquisitors are known -- some of which who roam with such authority discreetly dispensing justice, investigating individuals and matters, and doing the will of the Chancellor.

Investigators - these special agents are tasked to investigate any matter that may lead to the discovery Ventrue Tradition has been disregarded, any death of individual Ventrue that causes concern as to the reason, any possibility for infiltration/breaches of security, etc. Investigators have the full authority to conduct investigations, as they deem necessary.

While Investigators possess no authority to levy final judgment in matters, referring such matters to the Judicial Branch, they possess the authority to take whatever steps are deemed necessary to complete their investigations in service to the Ventrue Clan and its Traditions if such steps are believed necessary at the time. The primary objective that every Investigator has set before their person, however, is simply to find the truth.

Inquisitors - these special agents remain on call to perform special assigned tasks for the Chancellor, however, possess every authority of both Directors, and furthermore, may levy punishments of Final Death. Inquisitors carry this authority with them at all times, and may choose to involve themselves in any matter which draws their immediate attention.

Inquisitors are often relied upon to handle the most sensitive and important matters that the Order of Kings' Justice becomes involved in. They roam as the Hand of the Chancellor, and the Voice of the Order. Inquisitors may take whatever steps are deemed necessary to protect the Ventrue Clan and its Traditions if such steps are believed necessary at the time.

Chancellor - the Chancellor has been tasked by the Council of Thirteen to ensure the sanctity of the Ventrue Traditions, and the security of the Clan through the position of Chancellor for the Order of Kings' Justice, whereby the Chancellor directs and oversees all activity within the Order.

The Chancellor possesses every right and authority of all positions within the Order, as well as the authority to call for martial action against foes of the Ventrue Clan, and holds a non-voting seat upon the Senate to act as the special advisor to the Senate through the position of Chancellor.

The colors of the Chancellor are white on white.

The Order stands as the protector of Ventrue Tradition, and the noble Clan that should espouse the Traditions they are tasked to keep sacred. Modern nights have pushed this duty into the limelight as both young and older Ventrue begin to disregard the Traditions, which have kept the Clan whole for so many millennia, before.

Certain younger Ventrue perceive the Order as a meddling tool of the Ancients to keep a stranglehold on the youth of the Clan, while other older Ventrue decry what has become a more active Order which scrambles to ensure Ventrue Traditions remain maintained by often adopting the Greater Accounting itself, when none stand to judge wayward Ventrue. While yet others see the rising power of the Order as a threat to their own personal Jyhads with each other, and thus, themselves.

Traditional Ventrue perceive the rising need for the Order as a sign the Clan is falling, and as a failure of the Clan to maintain Traditions, or look to its own needs; becoming more apathetic, individual, and less willing to honor the bonds of noble blood which have kept the Ventrue on top, so many millennia before. The recent separation of duties, and the addition of martial agents only serve to vindicate such beliefs, as Ventrue have begun to weaken to the point other Clans make open moves against Ventrue Blood, and the Ventrue themselves seem either no longer willing, or capable of working together to provide for their own defense, or take any collective action against foes of the Clan, thus making the formation of a defensive Order necessary.

One might wonder what effect the rising prominence of the Order within the Clan will have in the future -- will it be the savior of the Clan, or turn into the Beast which will herald the destruction of the Ventrue, and the coming Gehenna?

[Barnaby Cuthbert]

The Order of Diplomats: The eyes/ears/and mouth to the outside from the clan. They are the ambassadors, the dignitaries who work with the other clans to maintain civility and peace.

Lysander created the Diplomats around 200 BC to help gather support for Rome and the Ventrue in the war against Carthage. They began as a cross between the CIA and the secretary of the state…they were organized to negotiate and mediate intra-clan disputes and is still in service today.

There are two sides to this order...the publicly known figures of the "Diplomats"...and the many bookkeepers, librarians, moles, investigators and technicians who compile the vast files on anyone and everyone.

The Diplomats of today are the first impression, the visible, the elite force that deals with the difficulties between Clan Ventrue and other clans. They are the ones to make the treaties, to uphold these treaties and to insure good will and harmony as best as could be handled between the clans. The diplomats resolve conflict, restore peace, and respect. They are the eyes, ears, and mouth from the Clan to other clans.

Aims: To insure Ventrue standing among the other Clans and see that the Clan, the Council and the principles of Ventrue are enforced, respected and acknowledged.

Description: Ambassadors of the Ventrue amongst the masses.

Advantages: Generally first to receive information dealing with other clans, usually the most recognized and out-going of the Ventrue. They are called in to handle the negotiations, treaties and disputes.

They are looked favorably upon by all Ventrue, and as sought out for guidance in any potential situation dealing with any other clan.

Disadvantages: They're either overly social more akin to the Toreador and not very in-depth or hard-line Ventrue blue blood lording over the masses like a Colonial English Governor.

Prerequisites: To become a diplomat, one must possess the art of diplomacy, be able to handle all types of negotiations, is well tempered and genteel and has the respect of their fellow Ventrue. One must have earned and been awarded The Court of Many Colors in favor of at least one Clan other than Ventrue or The Laurel Crown. In addition, one must have a combination of two of the three abilities at the appropriate level of 4: Politics, Camarilla Lore, and/or Etiquette.

The Tartan Award: An award bestowed to Ventrue who have successfully purchased or founded a major corporation (OOC: Finance Influence x5).

Directorates rooted in the European tradition have chosen to recognize the Tartan. Ventrue who have established themselves in the upper echelons of financial circles are permitted to wear plaid articles of clothing at Directorate meetings. High-spirited (read: younger) Ventrue have taken to crashing a local bank to demonstrate their qualifications; reckless machismo that is tolerated, but just barely, by the Elders. As most Ventrue of age are expected to have mastered the financial arena, the Tartan, once achieved, immediately loses its appeal. Despite this, plaid is still worn on formal and special occasions such as a meeting of several Directorates or visit by a noteworthy Elder. No formal ceremony for conferring the Tartan exists. It is merely worn when appropriate at the earliest opportunity. Ventrue who specialize in other arenas (politics, bureaucracy, etc.) have tried unsuccessfully for years to establish a tradition with similar cachet for their specialties. (Power ties and suspenders were big during the 1980's; booster pins during the 1950's.)

The only tradition that has recently showed staying power is the acquisition of special license plates for Ventrue limousines that mark the owner as part of the inner circle of local politics. Such license plates confer immunity upon the vehicle from speeding, parking or moving violation tickets. (OOC: Politics-5, Bureaucracy-5 or Police-5.) It is believed that the Tartan was first established as an insult by the English Ventrue against their Scottish cousins (the stereotypical misers). Through an odd confluence of events, and manipulations by Clan Malkavian, plaid has come to be seen as the symbol of that quintessential Ventrue virtue -- thrift.

International Commodities Exchange [I.C.E]: The business aspect of the Clan, protecting its influential ties to the mortal world, and preventing the other Clans from dominating in those influences.

I.C.E., International Commodities Exchange, is the business aspect of the Ventrue Clan. The concept of I.C.E. is to help Ventrue learn how to quickly, smartly, efficiently manage their influences and grow them to higher levels faster than the other clans and competitors. It is an in game society that helps protect the Masquerade, help the Clan by being able to support the Camarilla society by quickly utilizing its resources to lend aid, assistance, or even materials for the on going wars with Sabbat, Hunters and other enemies.

The structure of the organization is built into three parts, International, National and Regional tiers.

The International aspect of the organization works as a unified system to educate and train Ventrue in the arts of organizing, maintaining and expanding their mortal influences without being detected. There is one CEO overseeing the entire International system. The governing body is made up of the CEOs of the national branches. As a governing body, they help set the pace, the direction and the goals of the Global Ventrue Influential Society.

The National branches maintain their country specific needs. The Chief Executive Officer/President or presiding head officer of each national branch is a voting member of the International body. Each country can establish their own method for appointing, or voting in the National officer positions.

Each national office has a Chief Technologies Officer to monitor new methods and procedures of organizing, maintaining and deploying the resources of the Ventrue within that nation.

There is a Chief Operations Officer who's primary focus is reporting, tallying and collating the regional information in a way that quickly ascertains the resource information for all members of the organization. They maintain the databases, the records and the personnel files of all members of the national branch.

The regional branches maintain their areas, help foster growth cooperation, and recruitment to substation the regions needs and desires. They promote and deploy the goals, the directions of the national and international organization, while also developing regional tactics and methods to help support their needs. The regional branches keep a close eye on areas of interest and issues and quickly respond to them by deploying the resources within their areas.

The presiding national organization officer appoints regional level positions. They report to the COO, and work directly with the National board to help set policy, direction and deployment of regional resources.

Any Ventrue can apply for any of the national organization of their Country.

What I.C.E. Is:

-Helping build up influences quickly.

-Training Ventrue in methods and procedures that help organize, maintain and deploy their resources efficiently, and effectively.

-Building Resources to help build a strong clan presence in the Influence system.

-Create Unified Influence Front in the Clan and taking back what is rightfully VENTRUE.

-Take control over areas of Influence, guaranteeing Ventrue Control in those areas, making it so other clans come to us to utilize these influences in such items as Masquerade breaches, payoffs, and investigations.

-Learn how to utilize the system more efficiently by tracking methods developed and tested.

It is a society where other Ventrue can utilize for assistance if they need it.

-A collective body of Ventrue who help set the standards for influential needs of the Clan within the mortal society.

Vestments and Chairs: Holdings of control over boards, institutions, and chairs.

The Ventrue, befitting their birthright, control a number of multinational companies, prestigious universities, distinguished law firms and banks. Many of these have been under the control of the Ventrue for centuries, albeit sometimes under a variety of names. The Ventrue of Europe maintain strict control and rigid hierarchy and mind numbing protocols over which Ventrue are allowed to invest or hold influence within the various organizations. These restrictions have been lessened to some degree in the Americas and abroad. Yet the tradition lives on. Ventrue in control of particular institutions may offer investment opportunities or a seat on the board (or committee or what have you) of their privately held institutions. It is considered a singular honor; a mark of a career on the rise that need not be recognized quite so publicly with status or prestige.

The honorific is listed among ones titles simply as "Vested in (institution name here) in (insert year here)" or "Awarded a chair on the board of (institution name here) in (insert year here)." Ventrue have been known to go to obscene lengths to obtain such prizes. There are exacting protocols to be followed that make it impossible for younger Ventrue to just create their own snobby, privately held company or law firm. (OOC: The player may create the background institutions that they would like to see with restrictive membership. They may even go so far as to use their influences to create an exclusive privately owned institution.)

Order of Prometheus: An information network, specialized in covert operations. It helps feed the other societies information that these would normally not have access to.

Purpose
The order was created to provide a centralized organization to collect, analyze and distribute intelligence information on the members of other clans utilizing modern investigation techniques. The Order also secretly organized the effort to improve internal security of our communications overall, and facilitated confidential communication at all levels of clan functioning.

It also warns leaders of Clan Ventrue of upcoming threats to its power. The Order communicates with the heads of other Ventrue clan societies regarding their need for such information, and will make their findings available to such other individuals, as the clan head deems appropriate. The Order will set in place a network of informants who can spread misinformation if necessary, in a timely and effective manner.

History
The formation of the order was done swiftly, methodically and quietly. Simply, the spies who became members of this organization were used to keeping secrets and simply told a select few that they had formed a single centralized organization. Only those whom it served were told in the beginning. Those who refused to become members along with those who caused the previous failures have not been heard from since.

The Order was created in the 1930's as modern intelligence gathering began in its infancy. This occurred at the time that the KGB was formed in Russia and the OSS (now the CIA) was formed in the US. The order's history is similar to several different organizations histories. For example there has been scouts and spies since the beginning of human conflict. There has never been any sort of conflict to ever to occur that spies where not there. They were very effectively used in the Napoleonic wars, American Revolution, American Civil War, World War I and II.

In more modern times people have formed the KGB (now the GRU), OSS, CIA, NSA, DIA and MI5 to do the dirty work required to protect a political organization from falling to another. Open war has become an anathema and this sort of organization has taken its place.

Kindred society has affected human history for millennia. Democracy and other concepts have come from the ideals of the kindred and passed on to the kine as way to control them.

Organizations such as the CIA were formed in kindred society first and later into human society. This order was the beginning of the move to modernize the methods employed to collect information. The history of the order would is parallel to those in the mortal society.

Vision
To be the keystone of an unseen Ventrue Intelligence Community that is pre-eminent in the Camarilla, known for both the high quality of our work, excellence and loyalty of our people.

The Order exists on two levels. While it recruits openly and has a public presence, its full scope and more sensitive inner workings will not be widely known except only to a very few. The Order exists to provide information directly to the clan leaders on issues that concern them, they may then deal with the information as they see fit. Few will witness its internal working.

Limitations
This Order's purpose is not to investigate the internal matters of the Ventrue clan or individual's actions of disloyalty. This Order is not to determine if a crime against the Clan has been committed or to question to loyalty of any of its members. Such falls under the charter of the Knights of the King's Justice. This Order is concerned only with data originating outside the clan, which does not fall within the OKJ's scope of interest. This Order's purpose is not to propose, negotiate or ratify treaties or agreements of any kind. This falls entirely under the charter of the Diplomats. This Order's purpose is not to exploit the use of resources or influences to either help the Ventrue clan grow in power or hinder those who wish it harm. Such matters are to go through I.C.E.

Political Stance
The order was ultimately created to provide the leaders of the Ventrue information on what threatens the clan as a whole. The Clan head and the leaders of the other societies task the order to gather information and the order distributes this information to them. It attempts to work hand in hand with the other societies when the purpose is to further clan goals or protect the clan. Ultimately, friction will develop if another society acts in a way that is contrary to the clan's good

The Order fully supports the leaders of the clan by providing information, gained by spying. This assures that they get critical information that they use to base their decisions. They endeavor to help the clan and work to maintain a good political standing at all costs. Much the same ideals for the clan are applied to the Camarilla but the Venture clan comes first.

Procedures and Activities
Because of the sensitivity of the information members of the Order are always in a position of trust. Members must never lie to a superior in the Order and shall always divulge what they know. Anything that could lead a member to tarnish their loyalty to clan is normally considered taboo. Members are expected to avoid situations that could be used to violate the ethics of the order or betray the order. For instance close relationships or owing boons to others that could challenge your loyalty to the clan are not normally accepted. Such situations are to be reported immediately to their superiors so that the situation can be mitigated. If the situation is grievous enough a member can have their access to information suspended pending an investigation by KoKJ.

Not much is actually known by the clan populace of its internal structure. Rumors and shadows are the domain for this organization. Every Ventrue clan member should know of its existence or a rumor of its existence and it basic purpose and function. They would not know with any certainty whom actually runs the Order. Others in clan would have the general impression of its ability to spy on others but not know of any evidence of assassinations or other operations along that line. Rumors of such operations may exist but would be spoken only alone in the dark.

Every night it members go out into Kindred society mindful that their entire purpose is to observe their environment and to listen to what occurs around them and to report anything that might be of interest. They now that they are to observe and collect data and in the future take action if required to protect the clan from danger. The order gathers information and reports to the clan head and select elders what is has heard or seen by its agents throughout the week. It analyzes the gathered information and reports its findings and makes suggestions. This is essentially like the daily report the CIA gives the president of the United States.

The other clans are the intended targets of its information gathering. Members of other clans are the source of the information gathered. The order can form friendships of those it trust from other clans or kill the enemies that are a threat to the Ventrue as a whole. This is all to be done without the knowledge of the other clans.

The Ventrue believe that they rule the Camarilla and that they are the Camarilla. This thinking would be propagated in the order and since supporting the Ventrue is supporting the rules of the Camarilla the members would believe that the two organizations are being supported by the order in harmony.

Those who were complacent and caused the failures of before were replaced with fresh individuals who would prove themselves to be more effective. Age and relative closeness to Cain became less important than results and performance.

Normally the elders of each line would know of it existence and would be able to inform the members what they need to know. But this organization is to be somewhat mysterious. Every member of the Venture clan would know of its existence but lack any details. What every member would be taught when they first enlist into the order would be widely known by the elders of the clan

Requirements for Membership
To become a member of this Order you must be a member of the Ventrue clan by blood, passed a thorough background investigation, must remain loyal to the clan and its ideals. Any member must also possess a combination of two out of the following three abilities/influences at the appropriate level of 3: Security, Military (influence), Espionage (influence).

Positions
There are several ranks within the Order: Special Agents, Operatives, Deputy Chancellor, and Chancellor. The privileges and duties of each are detailed below:

Special Agents to the Chancellor
· Freelance operatives who serve the Chancellor directly, and who are not limited by Territory.

Operatives
· Field Operatives with varied skills that gather the information as directed by the Territorial Director

Deputy Chancellor
· Assists the Chancellor in management duties, with assignment to a specific sphere of interest..
· Manages night-to-night operations of the Operatives and Special Agents as a whole.

· Recruits and appoints Specialists.

Chancellor
· Analyzes the reports of Deputy Chancellors for signs of trends and activities that should be of concern to the Ventrue.
· Manages night-to-night operations of the territorial Order as a whole.

· Oversees recruitment efforts at all levels.

[Barnaby Cuthbert]

The Knights of The Crimson Scepter: Young Ventrue who both gathers intelligence on the enemies of the Camarilla and guards the elders of the Clan against the Sabbat while looking for signs of the Secret Masters.

The Knights of the Crimson Scepter are one of the youngest organizations within the Ventrue. Membership is considered ambitious, daring, dangerous or scandalous depending on the Kindred's reputation and location. Elders often view the Knights as upstarts attempting to emulate the much older Knights of the Blood.

The Crimson Scepter was created by order of Lady Anne and the Royal Directorate in the Victorian era. It emulates the creation of the British Secret Service and the royal spies of Sir Walter Raleigh 150 years prior. It draws much of its legitimacy from its rather loose ties to the medieval Knights of the Blood and the two organizations have a history of one-ups-man ship and friendly (sometimes) rivalry.

Officially the Crimson Scepter gathers intelligence about the enemies of the Camarilla and Clan Venture. They follow the movements of the Sabbat with great interest. Unofficially, and more often, the Crimson Scepter guards the elders of the clan against the Sabbat and looks for signs of the Secret Masters. They compile extensive dossiers on Ventrue and check them against the records in London. They are the eyes and ears of the Directorates, watching and removing those who threaten the clan. They operate by stealth, political machination and deception. Many ambitious Ventrue view this as the first step to becoming an Alastor.

Knights of the Crimson Scepter are permitted to wear a Crimson ribbon with their Clan symbol to official functions. Knights Errant may place a crimson and white ribbon behind their badge of office. Knight-Commanders and the Knight-General have, respectively, silver and gold piping on their ribbons. The Sergeant-At-Arms is denoted by Crimson chevrons, over laid with a silver scepter, on a blue coat.

The Knight-General strictly regulates membership in the Crimson Scepter, although a Knight or Knight-Commander may recommend a Kindred for membership. The Knight-General and Knight-Commanders are Elders of the Ventrue based in London. All three are several hundred years of age and posses strong reputations in the clan. The Sergeant at Arms is a ghoul who serves the Knight-General. The identities of these four individuals are never truly known outside of Lady Anne's trusted advisors. Full membership, or knighthood, is restricted to thirteen male English Venture of good standing (4+ status at induction) whose sire, grandsire and childer (if any) are in good standing and have never broken tradition. Other Kindred may be nominated for Knight-errant positions, a sort of honorary membership. Any Kindred held in good standing by the Ventrue may be nominated for a Knight-Errant position. Each member of the order takes an oath of silence at his induction, his orders from the Knight-General buried deep within the brain by several highly skilled elders. Failure to maintain this silence, regardless of circumstance results in the destruction of the traitor at the hands of his brothers.

Archons: Those of Clan Ventrue who have previously served as Archon to the Justicariate.

Archons who have served former Justicars but are not serving currently, are entitled to wear a blue sash over the left shoulder to the right hip. Those who have served former Ventrue Justicars mark their sash with gold braid. Former Archons continue to fight against this display with all their political might but have been continually outmaneuvered by the rest of the clan. Rather than a mark of distinction. The sash is a "warning sign" that reveals that the Ventrue in question is a blood bound pawn of a particular Elder and should be treated as such. As such it decreases opportunities for subterfuge and intrigue -- which is just the way the Clan likes it.

The Alph Award: Ventrue who have discovered and developed a stable means of financial wealth and commerce through business.

The Alph was first created during the Age of Exploration for Ventrue who backed noteworthy expeditions that brought commerce and wealth to the coffers of Europe. The name refers to the fabled tale of Kublai Khan and the Silk Road, what many consider the most significant development in trade ever. (A hotly debated topic.) Specifically, Alph, the sacred river of
Xanadu that flowed to a sunless sea. (Kindred love references to all things sunless.) In modern nights the Alph is awarded to Ventrue who discover untapped resources or new industries. (One of the few times that young Ventrue with foresight might be recognized for such.) The Alph is a two-tone silk ribbon worn somewhere about the torso. It is listed among ones honorifics as "Awarded the Alph in (insert year here) for (insert commercial accomplishment here)." The two colors of the Alph are taken from the flag of the country in command of the noteworthy commercial venture. The British and British Colonial colors are red and white. The American colors are blue and white. (The change over from British Colonial colors to American was part of
fierce feud that is still fought by some to this very night.) For reasons unfathomable, the awarding of the Alph carries with it an entitlement to allotments of water along the Silk Road (for one's horse no doubt.) Like most honorifics, the Alph is a topic of conversation at gatherings of Ventrue. Young Ventrue are always amused to witness the interplay between (for example) an award winner for the discovery of tea in the South Pacific and the modern pharmaceutical magnate.

The Laurel Crown Award: Ventrue who have made significant diplomatic achievements on behalf of the Clan.

Drawn from Clan Ventrue's involvement with the Roman Empire, the Laurel Crown was at one time awarded to Ventrue who made specific political achievements within the framework of the Roman government. With the fall of Rome, the Laurel Crown has been "reinvented" and has been given since the 11th century to recognize a Ventrue's significant diplomatic achievements on behalf of the Clan. Those who are awarded the Laurel Crown are judged against the accomplishments of other recipients. So while most Ventrue will qualify numerous times throughout their careers (the award can be made only once), many wait several centuries or more for the "perfect" opportunity; the accomplishment that "trumps" all other recipients. Hardestaadt was awarded the Laurel Crown for founding the Camarilla -- the unassailable pinnacle accomplishment that still irritates other successful, accomplished (and outdone) Ventrue Elders. Since the Age of Napoleon it has become customary to award the Laurel Crown to oneself, much as Napoleon crowned himself Emperor on his coronation day, rather than cede any authority to the church by having the crown placed upon his head by a member of the clergy.

The Cour de Lion Award: Awarded to Ventrue who have displayed significant bravery.

A red ribbon with gold lion is worn to denote the rank if desired. Pips may be pinned to the ribbon to denote repeated recognition. Literally "heart of a lion," the award is given to Ventrue who distinguish them for bravery. Can be granted in lieu of prestige such as Brave or Admired. Primogen, Princes, and/or Chairpersons may give this award.

The Peerage Award: A distinguishing honor given to Ventrue of exceptional caliber; those upheld
as exemplars in a clan of elites.

Can be granted by Primogen, Princes, or Chairpersons in lieu of prestige such as Faultless or Cherished. There are three levels of peerage (with the second and third levels being increasingly rare). The first is Peer of the Clan, the second is Peer of the Realm, and the third is Peer of the Crown. NPC Elders can only award the third level of peerage. Recipients may list the award among their titles. If desired, a weave of gold braid is worn over and under the left shoulder to denote the award.

The Proctor Award: Distinguished Ventrue who are sought out as teachers and role models for
young Ventrue childer.

Primogen, Princes, or Chairpersons can make the award in lieu of prestige such as respected or revered. There are no official duties associated with the title, although recipients are allowed to list the title after their name in correspondence. Unofficially, Proctors may find their advice sought by sires and childer alike. A silver medallion attached to a chain with the recipient’s lineage colors is worn around the neck if desired.

The Lineage Award: Ventrue who maintain extended excellent reputations through lineage.

Although every Ventrue takes time to learn the tedious lineage minutiae of important or distinguished clanmates, some are distinguished above and beyond the standard in a clan filled with elites. Ventrue PC's who have been in play for longer than a year with a good reputation (aka -- not likely to be hauled before the Justicar anytime soon) may be awarded a distinguished spot in the lineage of the clan. Unofficially, the award is known as being "Admitted to the League." Recipients may reflect the reward by wearing a gray or silver band around the left cuff of their jacket. This is one of the few awards that can be made posthumously. The award can be suggested by a Chairperson and requires ratification by the Directorate.

The Reputation Award: Ventrue renown by fearsome reputations.

Ventrue who are marked by a particularly fearsome reputation may be rewarded by the clan (in lieu of the prestige Feared) by being permitted (by Primogen, Princes, or Chairpersons) to attach a particular moniker to their names. For instance: "The Dread" Prince Stein, Slag "the Feared Monster of Belarus", etc.

The Surname Award: Ventrue who distinguish themselves through service or accomplishments.

Ventrue are often permitted to add a distinctive surname in lieu of being awarded status, boons, or prestige. For example: Richard "the Lion Hearted", "The Gentle Lady" Stephanie, Ibraham "the Moor," etc. Such awards have fallen in and out of vogue in various Ages. There is no formal decoration assigned for this award. Primogen, Princes or Chairpersons can grant the award.

The Address Award: Ventrue who have been distinguished as honorable in character.

Distinguished mortals (judges, for instance) are sometimes addressed by the title "The Honorable." The same title is sometimes awarded to Ventrue who distinguish themselves in both honor and character. Can be granted by Primogen, Princes, or Chairpersons in lieu of prestige such as Honorable or Just. Those who distinguish themselves above and beyond in these characteristics can be awarded the privilege of extending the address to "The Right Honorable."

The Serpentine Egg Award: Awarded to Ventrue who successfully committed treachery on behalf of the clan.

This tradition fell into disuse after 1639 when the egg was given anonymously to the Ventrue Primogen of Brussels as an Embrace Night present. A wave of similar awards followed in an attempt (successful) to humiliate particularly hypocritical Ventrue. Older Ventrue still claim the serpentine egg among their distinguished awards while more modern Ventrue attempt to deliver them to rivals at politically disastrous moments (for instance, in the presence of a Harpy).

Awarding of the Sword: Ventrue who become Primogen are given a sword to mark the occasion and in turn, are allowed to bestow such accolades to future Clan Primogen.

Clan Ventrue draws much of its history, lineage, and membership from the highly militaristic Roman Empire. In homage to that ancestry, Ventrue who become Primogen are given a sword to mark the occasion. As with all things Ventrue, nothing is ever simple. Who awards the sword and how is of critical importance. The reputation of the recipient is forever tied to the Ventrue conducting the ceremony. Primogen who fall into disgrace can initiate a chain reaction that threatens the stability of the entire clan. Therefore, the awarding of the sword serves to reinforce the traditions of Progeny and Hospitality among the Ventrue. The entire clan has an interest in keeping Primogen on the "straight and narrow." (OOC: In game terms, awarded by PC's to PC's.)

The recipient, as a mark of their increased authority within the Clan, is allowed to choose their own sword. Much has been read into what type of blade is chosen. Comparisons are made with those who have chosen similar blades in the past. The scimitar, for example, suffers under a disastrous pedigree, and is completely rejected by any Primogen with a shred of concern for their reputation. Ventrue with keen tactical minds (aka much of the clan) have been able to gain significant insight into their fellow Primogen based on a choice of sword. Since the 17th century, it has become customary to employ a measure of guile and subterfuge during the sword selection process to throw off such calculating analyses. This has also had unintended disastrous consequences. Many is the Ventrue who chose an unsuitable sword, only to find their unlives dependent on that sword during an outbreak of violence at an inopportune moment. Because of the awarding of the sword, all Ventrue are well advised to study swordplay -- even in modern nights. Prideful Primogen and Elders are known to demand satisfaction at sword point -- a habit that has been adopted by some Toreador and Malkavians. The only way to avoid potential embarrassment is to master the major styles and various blades -- just to be on the safe side.... Dueling channels the natural competitive tendencies of the Ventrue into safe outlets. After all, once one has bested and shamed an opponent in a duel, Final Death seems like overkill. In cases where status or prestige would be inappropriate, it is permitted to award a shield or armor to those who have been awarded the sword.

The dates and circumstances of such awards, like those of the Equerry, may be listed as part of one's titles and lineage. For reasons not quite clear, a gathering of Ventrue who have been awarded the sword is known as a "Praetorian Guard." A Ventrue of this rank who shows a particularly devious and duplicitous nature is often referred to as "Senator." (A reference to the murder of Julius Caesar by a mob of Roman Senators.) Such an insult can only be answered in bloodshed if delivered directly. Another common insult is to demean another's award as a "knife."

Under no circumstance is the awarding of the sword to be confused with knighthood -- a point of honor that was clarified permanently during the bloodshed of 1382.

The Procurator Award: Ventrue who have been seen to hold significant power in a general region.

During the Age of the Roman Empire, a Procurator was a governor of a minor province. In modern nights the title is bestowed upon Ventrue of significant influence and power in a general region. The title is somewhat similar in scope to that of Chairman of the Board of a regional directorate but has no official authority or duties. (For instance, powerful Ventrue who do not (but should) hold other positions.) Can be granted in lieu of prestige such as well known and influential. Recipients may list the title after their names in correspondence. If desired, a purple ribbon with a roman coin attached is worn to denote the rank. The award requires the approval of the local Chairperson and vote of the Directorate.

The Daley Prize Award: Awarded to Ventrue who have maintained order and show outward dislike for Anarchs.

Ventrue take pride in maintaining order and have a particular dislike for Anarchs. Shortly before the formation of the Camarilla, special recognition was given to those who were particularly dutiful in oppressing the young and maintaining order at all costs. The award has no formal name. Public recognition of its existence would only inflame resentment. It is known in modern nights as the "Daley Prize," in honor of Mayor Daley of Chicago who dispensed rioters during the democratic convention with brutal force. The award itself varies from region to region, given by the region's Eldest Ventrue to a worthy candidate. (The Eldest Ventrue of any given area often takes a perverse pleasure in seeing the Anarchs brought to heel and younger Ventrue keeping the world of darkness safe for their Elders.) The award itself is always the most popular instrument of repression of the day. Ventrue have been awarded chains, pikes, jackboots, bayonets, stun sticks, nooses, and the like. It is listed discretely among one's honorifics as (for example) "Awarded the musket in 1785." Since it varies from Ventrue to Ventrue without pattern, Kindred outside the clan ignore it as an irrelevant internal detail. But Ventrue recognize it for what it is: a mark of cruelty; approval by the most sadistic of the clan.

The Equerry Award: Ventrue who have or currently serve as Whips to the Clan.

Ventrue are known as hide-bound and traditional. Nowhere is this more evident than with the awarding of the Equerry. In the middle ages, an equerry was an attendant to royalty, a page or some such. The term was adopted by Clan Ventrue to recognize those who serve as Whips.

Upon being appointed Whip, the Primogen is required to give the Whip a horse; a tradition that has served the clan sensibly until the 20th century. In times gone by, the horses that were kept distinguished a Ventrue or his household. Now luxury and classic automobiles are the standard, but the tradition remains. Why? "Because that's the way we've always done it," say the Elders. As with all things Ventrue, much can be read into the type of horse given and manner of its presentation. Upon receiving the horse, the Whip may henceforth list himself/herself as a member of the Equerry, the date of admission, and if desired, the number of years served. (Many Ventrue leave off the number of years served if doing so would indicate a stalled career or swift demotion.) Members of the Equerry who have served with distinction can be awarded spurs, saddle, or bridle to recognize their achievement in cases where status or prestige would be inappropriate. Under no circumstances is a second horse ever awarded. Members of the Equerry are judged by the condition of their first horse: its use, upkeep, and health. A second horse just wouldn't be the same. Some have gone so far as to ghoul their steed, but it is universally considered a mark of excessive vanity. Riding gear and themed gifts make a safe if dull choice for Embrace Night presents for those of the Equerry. The horses of the Equerry are vulnerabilities for friend and foe alike. Primogen have been known to send a Whip's horse to the glue factory as a mark of displeasure. Or force the humiliated clanmate to kill his own horse as recognition of failure or shame. Insidious Elders have tested the security precautions taken by the Equerry by attacking or kidnapping horses. After all, if the ancillae can't be trusted with something as simple as a horse, how can they be trusted with a multinational corporation? For inter-clan feuds nothing is more satisfying than killing a rival’s horse as ones opening gambit. Unbeknownst to the Ventrue, the Nosferatu are secret supporters of this tradition. It has afforded them unprecedented opportunities for espionage in the past. Animals instinctively fear Kindred and avoid their presence. A Ventrue who has failed to master the most rudimentary aspects of animal training will find their steed uncontrollable. Primogen routinely demand that their whips display some skill in this area. Training an animal is but the first step in learning how to control kine. Surprise exams or inspections are not unheard of. Younger Ventrue find this tradition ridiculous at best; a clear example of how out-of-touch the Elders are with the modern world. Particularly brash Ventrue have used their horses for forays into off-track gambling and stud farming. "After all," say the young, "the damn thing is expensive. Might as well make it earn its keep." In the 9th century, Phillipe de Montaigne awarded the Equerry to his protégé, Jean L'Heretier. During the ceremony,
the animal went mad with fear, refusing to approach L'Heretier for any reason, and attempting to trample the crowd. L'Heretier later went on to diablerize de Montaigne several decades later.

Since that time, horses that go mad during the awarding of the Equerry are considered a sign that the Whip will commit diablerie. Some Ventrue have been put to death on the basis of this evidence alone.

The Key Club: Male Ventrue who have successfully seduced and made conquest of female kindred.

The Key Club is one of the most private of the secret societies of Clan. Its membership is small but united in common purpose. Members keep an almost inconspicuous length of silk or hemp tied to their key chains with a number of knots along its length. Knots are added for seduction and conquest of female Kindred. Nosferatu do not count, nor does copulation compelled by force or domination. Toreador count double. The Key Club is a modern invention coinciding with the fall of chivalry and rise of feminism, which members have interpreted as an affront to their power. The name derives from the brief fad of "key parties" in the 1970's when married couples would place key chains in a bowl at parties and select random partners to go home with at the end of the evening. For Key Club members sex is just another form of dominance and conquest; a diversion to keep the centuries at bay. No Kindred outside the club is aware of its existence or the significance of the marker. The risk of discovery and scandal is part of the allure for Key Club members.

[Kenneth Ashland]

...

What book is all that from?

...

And when can Kenneth join the Hauge? ;D

[Paige Fairchild]

Whether all canon or not, that is some pretty cool stuff there.

[Webmonkey]

Most of it is made up I think, I'd never heard of most of it. The site was entirely devoted to the ventrue clan if I recall. There was more too, but mostly regurgitated clanbook stuff, but the societies and awards were by far the most interesting and unique content though.

[Janet]

And well written to boot. Whoever wrote those put a lot of time and effort into it all. Very impressive.

[Lady Daniels]

If we do this, we're going to have a hell of a time integrating all of that into this game's Ventrue, heh.

[Kenneth Ashland]

It's probably easier if we find a way to highlight the existing, internal hierarchy of the Clan.

Secret societies and such are probably better geared toward a tabletop game.

But, that's just me.

[Webmonkey]

I was more thinking it would be neat to integrate into a character background or something.

Though some of the awards are cool.