The Path of Blood

Nickname: Dervishes
Virtues: Conviction and Self-Control
Bearing: Resolve. Followers of the Path of Blood know the seriousness of their task and are incredibly
dedicated to it. Their aura modifier affects Willpower rolls.
Basic Beliefs: This Path is practiced almost exclusively by the assassins of Clan Assamite, although only
vampires who demonstrate true loyalty to the Clan learn its harsh code. The founding principle of this
Path explains that the children of Caine (or Khayyin, as the Assamites refer to him) are wicked failures, fit
primarily to bring the brood of Haqim (the Assamites’ name for their own Clan founder) closer to “the One,”
a state of mystical transcendence. Haqim instructs his childer to salvage or strike down Khayyin’s other
childer to destroy the taint they inflict on the world. Assamites on this Path follow two basic precepts.
First and foremost, the Clan seeks to convince other Kindred of their flawed, cursed nature, and thus convert
them to the service of those on the Path. Kindred as a whole are a blight upon the earth, and only by upholding
Haqim’s righteous code can they redeem themselves.
Should vampires resist attempts at conversion, the Assamites kill them. Before they were cursed, Assamites
would diablerize their victims, using the blood of the fallen to lower their Generations and thus return
to Haqim’s bounty. Now, unable to drink the blood of other vampires, they instead collect blood from vampires
as payment, using that to follow Haqim’s directives until the night when the curse upon them can
be lifted. Although they are not inherently psychotic murderers, Assamites on the Path of Blood place little
value on the unlives of other Kindred, and must have good reason not to slay most vampires with whom they
come in contact. Vampires on this Path pose a serious threat to other Kindred around them, and do not frequently
associate with non-Assamite Kindred. Blood is blood, however, and Assamites are not so fatuous as to
disregard the value of the vast web of Kindred society.
Few young Assamites follow this Path or even know of its existence — Clan Assamite conspires to keep its
beliefs secret from most other Kindred of the world.
Hundreds of years ago, the Assamites’ bloodthirsty ways united all other Children of Caine against them,
and they are loath to face the concerted opposition of Khayyin’s bastard brood again. As such, only the most
accomplished and able Assamites learn this Path’s tenets.

The Ethics of the Path
• Faithfully follow the teachings of Haqim.
• Mortals are beneath the notice of vampires. Feed from them only when necessary.
• Lose no opportunity to obtain Kindred blood of any Generation. The power of the Blood shall ensure
the clan’s victory.
• Withstand the Beast’s fury — failing to master oneself results in lessened prowess.
• Seek knowledge that may aid the Clan in its war on the cursed spawn of Khayyin.
• Extend the glory of Haqim’s cause to other Kindred. Should they refuse, use them to further your own
journey back to Khayyin’s grace.

History
The Assamites practiced an early version of this Path for hundreds of years before the formations of
the Camarilla and Sabbat. Their bloodlust led them into open conflict with powerful elder Kindred, who
desperately sought to stifle the marauding diablerists. The Assamites found themselves in the same situation
as the Anarchs during the time of the Anarch Revolt, and the Camarilla levied a curse on the Clan, making
it impossible for the Assamites to consume Kindred For centuries, the Clan have followed a debased
version of the Path, crippled by its members’ to commit diablerie directly.

Current Practices
The fatal nature of this Path with regard to other Kindred stands behind much of the fear and mistrust
of Clan Assamite. Predominantly practiced by proven ancillae and elders of the Clan, the Path of Blood leads
these beings into direct conflict with non-Assamite vampires. Kindred on the Path of Blood gracefully attempt
to convince other Kindred of their “one true way,” so a few individuals from other Clans also support
this Path.
Practitioners of little understanding seek merely to follow the teachings of Haqim, doing so without
question. However, those of greater wisdom seek to explore just what “becoming One” entails. By taking
the cursed blood of the Antediluvians and their spawn, the followers of the Path hope to concentrate the curse
of Khayyin in the hands of those who will use it responsibly (namely, the Assamite Clan). In such a way,
according to Path doctrine, can the great endgame of Gehenna be averted. Accordingly, Assamite Ancients
practice rigorous purity and meditation, and rumors of a Golconda-like state among these beings have recently
trickled into the larger Kindred community.

Description of Followers
Study, proselytism, and selective strikes against the rest of the Kindred world occupy the nights of Kindred
on this Path. Fanatical in their quest, the Assassins bring Final Death to those who would get in the way of
collecting the blood payments or sending a portion of those payments back to their sires and leaders in Alamut.
Mostly, however, Assamites seek to convert those of high Generation, as they are farther removed from
their progenitors and, thus, the taint of evil.

Following the Path
This Path espouses the liberal practice of Kindred murder and the acquisition of blood. More enlightened
Kindred on the Path of Blood also seek to uncover lore and knowledge that may lead them to a key to remove
the Tremere ritual that cripples them. As such, vampires who follow the Path of Blood are not mindless
monsters murdering Kindred in the streets, but wouldbe saviors of the entire world. All Kindred on the Path
of Blood strive to attain “Oneness” with the mythical Haqim, though few who have reached this lofty goal
deign to explain its nature. Most Dervishes believe that Oneness resembles Golconda, or another state
wherein vampires can cast off their curse and revel in their Cainite natures.

Common Abilities: Combat and occult Abilities aid followers in their pursuit of the Path’s principles.
Athletics, Brawl, Melee, Intimidation, and Occult are among the Abilities prized by Path of Blood supporters.
Preferred Disciplines: This Path lends itself to the refinement of Quietus, Obfuscate, and Celerity. Some
followers cultivate knowledge of Thaumaturgy to aid them in their quests.

The Path of the Bones

Nickname: Gravediggers
Virtues: Conviction and Self-Control
Bearing: Silence. The Gravediggers, accustomed as they are to long hours of quiet study and contemplation
of the grave, radiate the stillness of death. The bearing modifier applies to rolls involving Stealth and
attempts to go unnoticed.
Basic Beliefs: The Path of the Bones, it is believed, grew out of a warped code upheld by the morbid vampires
who sired the Giovanni: Human, Kindred, or otherwise, every being sooner or later ends up in death’s
arms. The most ardent followers of this Path espouse “giving oneself over to the comprehension of life’s inevitable
end.” Vampires who follow this Path seek the knowledge of precisely what death is: Is it simply the
end of life? The transition of the soul to what lies after life? Is it the end of the soul’s desire to exist? These
questions haunt the followers of the Path of the Bones each night.
Many vampires believe that the Path of the Bones is a degenerate Path that encourages followers to participate
in all manner of murder and deviance. Those who uphold the Path and those who are familiar with it,
however, know that it involves itself with a pursuit of life’s — and unlife’s — meaning. Followers of the Path
seek to understand death’s nature and purpose, and thus the roles individuals play in the greater scheme of
the world. Mortality is inevitable, except for vampires, who have somehow managed to cheat the cycle.
Kindred nature, however, is generally outside the avenues this Path explores. It is truly a scholar’s code, as
the Kindred who follow it forsake even their own comfort to advance their understanding of mortality’s mysteries.
These Kindred are not necessarily cruel — they merely value comprehension more than human life.
At its simplest, the Path of the Bones seeks to define not only what death is, but also its meaning to those
who have escaped it. It is a Path of knowledge and power, and many who support it learn to wield great
influence over the living and dead alike. Many among the Path become quite erudite in the ways of ghosts,
but even these odd beings fail to answer many of the Gravediggers’ questions — what, for example, happens
to a ghost that resolves its psychic struggle or discorporates into the void?

The Ethics of the Path
• Study death in all its permutations.
• Determine when death occurs; define it.
• Search for a purpose for death and the life that prefaces it.
• Quantify the differences of death by various causes.
• Achieve a comfort with death and unlife — distinguish between damnation and salvation.
• Hasten death’s arrival, should it seem to be unnaturally delayed.

History
This Path grew out of a moral code upheld by the Cappadocians, whom the Giovanni destroyed in their
bid for greater power. A select few Giovanni saw more than a means to an end in their practice of Necromancy,
and upheld the rituals and studies of their forebears. Although the Path is not widely practiced among the
Clan, followers of its precepts pioneered most of the Giovanni’s advances in Necromancy.

Current Practices
Elder members of Clan Giovanni follow this Path, as do those with a sincere interest in improving their necromantic
knowledge for a purpose other than temporal power. Giovanni who uphold the Path of the Bones
rarely deal with mortals, as their grim inquisitiveness often proves fatal for mortals with whom they come in
contact.

Description of Followers
Vampires on this Path are genuinely curious, wishing to learn exactly what purpose individuals serve. Thanatology
is more a science than a philosophy to Kindred on the Path of the Bones. This Path is quite introspective,
and greedy Giovanni rarely follow it, preferring the more materially comfortable outlook of Humanity.
Gravediggers support the Giovanni family primarily through the knowledge they bring it, rather than
through advancing the political aims of the Clan.

Following the Path
Vampires who subscribe to the tenets of the Path of the Bones should be detached yet inquisitive. Although
they are not cavalier about death, Gravediggers seldom aid anyone about to die, preferring to watch
and learn. Less fatalistic vampires may take issue with this, and the Kindred on this Path will not act against
them should they seek to aid the dying individual. Obviously, their time has not yet come.

Common Abilities: Kindred on this Path naturally specialize in those proficiencies that advance their macabre
research. Knowledges are favored, particularly in the realms of Medicine, Occult, and Science.
Preferred Disciplines: Followers of this Path obviously favor Necromancy, and also refine their aptitude
with Auspex. As well, certain elders of the Path are rumored to have developed unique mystic arts related
to the study of death.

The Path of Caine

Nickname: Noddists
Virtues: Conviction and Instinct
Bearing: Faith. The righteousness of the Cainite is apparent to all. The bearing modifier affects all rolls
that rely on the vampire’s image as a devout Kindred and scholar of Caine’s teachings.
Basic Beliefs: Scholars of nights long past, in seeking keys to the nature of vampiric existence, pursued
fragments of knowledge from the Book of Nod. Drawing upon the history from that book as well as other esoteric
sources, Cainite scholars concluded that only Caine, as the first vampire, is the paragon of vampiric nature.
The Noddists seek to become more like Caine, in order to discover the limits and powers of the undead form.
By learning from Caine’s example, the Noddists claim, one can understand the true nature of vampirism and
how vampiric existence differs from one’s mortal life. Noddists seek knowledge and history, recording the
experiences of Caine, so that they may learn from his example. To them, Caine’s life reveals the mystery of
the vampiric curse; by understanding the undead form, they transcend their mortal weaknesses. They prize any
knowledge about the vampiric condition, but the writings and stories of the First Vampire form the core of
Noddist lore. As Caine was marked and cast out from mortal society, the Noddists believe that he exemplifies
most keenly the differences between vampires and humans.
Therefore, this Path‘s adherents cast aside their humanity as inadequate and useless, emulating Caine’s
exile and seeking new rules to govern their predatory drives.
The heart of the Path of Caine lies in the exemplification of vampiric nature: The questions of existence,
the limits of the vampiric form and the changes wrought by the Embrace all drive the Noddists into
endless speculation, debate, and research. Scholarship and historical insight are valuable, but the vampire
must simultaneously develop spiritually and physically, to explore the limits of his undead form. Diablerie
serves as more than a simple theft of power; it allows the practitioner to learn from the experiences of other
undead, thereby developing greater understanding. Other vampires lose themselves in attempts to save
lost humanity or find meaning in obscure philosophy. The Path of Caine, instead, finds meaning in the fundamentals
of vampirism.
The Path of Caine is demanding and rigorous; few vampires follow its tenets in the modern nights. This
Path places a high emphasis on scholarship, insight, and personal discipline. With the eternal patience attributed
to Caine, say the followers of the Path, comes the opportunity to slowly refine oneself.

The Ethics of the Path
• Search for the history of Caine. Learn from his actions.
• Develop your willpower and predatory instinct. The Beast, like the rest of the vampiric form, may be
mastered.
• Take the vitae of the unworthy so that you may become closer to Caine. Temper this accrual with an
understanding of your own potential so that you do not take the Curse for granted.
• Adapt to the needs of your new condition; cast aside your lost humanity.
• Study your abilities and the abilities of Caine to discover what belongs within you. Examine the limits
and meanings of vampirism.

History
The Path of Caine developed in the early 16th century as vampires sought new insights into personal enlightenment
during the Renaissance. Many vampires felt the need for a system of self-improvement that
circumvented the limitations of humanistic beliefs, as human morality conflicted with vampiric nature. This
Path gained a great following over the next 200 years, as many vampires viewed Caine as an ideal figure. Following
the Enlightenment, this Path began to decline in favor of newer Paths. Few vampires maintained the
discipline and studiousness necessary to uphold this Path, so it dwindled to a small but devoted following.
The remaining Noddists maintained a respected place in the Sabbat and continued to recruit from the most
intellectual and insightful prospects. As the modern Sabbat selects more fledglings based on their individual
potential and achievement, this Path has experienced an influx of new followers.

Current Practices
This Path appeals to some of the most introspective and reflective of vampires, but all Sabbat subscribe to
parts of the theory (if not the practice) of this Path. Followers focus on personal growth, but also lead missions
to garner hidden knowledge and powerful elder vitae. Additionally, many of this Path‘s students often
oversee and participate in rituals and plays celebrating the history of vampirism. Noddists are loath to
Embrace randomly, instead choosing recruits from promising mortals. Recently, many Noddists have eschewed
scholarship in favor of traveling, experiencing the world and emulating Caine’s wanderings. Many of
these “adventurous” Noddists travel the globe to chase bits of information and experience the variety of vampiric
existence.

Description of Followers
Noddists are often reserved and educated, with a strong knowledge of history and a drive for self-awareness.
Followers of the Path are not inquisitive in the sense of seeking deductive answers to problems; rather,
they study traditions and historical events in hopes of finding solutions for their questions. Cainites who espouse
this Path often display a great deal of self-mastery. Additionally, Noddists tend to engage in debate
with other vampires, to discern how other Cainites experience the Curse. Noddists tend to assume positions
of spiritual authority in the Sabbat, as Pack Priests or Bishops. Many other Cainites find followers of this Path
haughty and vain.

Following the Path
Sons and Daughters of Caine should always seek information regarding the vampiric condition, through
experience, personal growth, and the pursuit of occult lore. Diablerie, development of Disciplines, and
self-mastery are all valid means of refining the vampiric form. Noddists rarely engage in politics, choosing
instead to acquire new information and experiences.
They also serve as priests who lead vampires to seek awareness — and development — of their undead condition.
Those on this Path lead by example, embracing their monstrous natures and striving to attune themselves
to their differences from humans, then helping other vampires do the same. Noddists do not hesitate
to share their insights, so that all vampires have the opportunity to become closer to Caine, though they
hoard dangerous secrets to prevent misuse.

Common Abilities: Vampires who adhere to the Path of Caine are studious and philosophical. Followers
primarily favor Knowledges — especially Occult — but Noddists are expected to be capable of developing
the vampiric form to its greatest potential, so Survival, Melee, and Athletics are encouraged. Additionally,
those who would engage in debate prefer Expression, Subterfuge, and Leadership.
Preferred Disciplines: Followers of the Path of Caine prefer those Disciplines considered “natural” to
vampires, such as Auspex and Presence. Disciplines that augment the physical form — Celerity, Fortitude,
and Potence — are particularly valuable. Some Noddists dislike the use of Disciplines that are not expressly
noted in the Book of Nod, such as Thaumaturgy and Serpentis, claiming that these Disciplines do not conform
to Caine’s development. Other followers of the Path claim that such Disciplines simply represent a
heightened mastery of the vampiric condition. Most Cainites of this Path learn only the Disciplines listed
by Caine in the early fragments of the Book of Nod.

The Path of Cathari

Nickname: Albigensians
Virtues: Conviction and Instinct
Bearing: Seduction. The Cathari are temptation incarnate, and they have an uncanny knack for knowing
the desires of others. The bearing modifier affects rolls to tempt and seduce others.
Basic Beliefs: The Path of Cathari sprang from the Catharist heresy of the Middle Ages. A dualistic philosophy,
Cathar doctrine holds that the world was created in equal parts by a good (“light”) creator responsible
for virtue and spirit, and an evil (“dark”) creator who fashioned the material world and its vices. The
original Cathars believed the soul to be the root of all that is pure in humanity, while the material body was
a shell in the corrupt physical world. Cathars pointed to the noble aspects of the spirit — compassion, sacrifice,
honesty, and the like — as proof that the only true good lay in the ephemeral. The material world,
with its suffering and misery, bore obvious flaws and imperfections. After much persecution, this dualistic
doctrine vanished from the mortal world, crushed by papal declarations of heresy. Over the years, the vampires
who favored tenets of the philosophy adopted it as their own.
According to the vampires who follow this Path, the undead are minions of the evil creator, given eternal
existence to tempt others with the lures of the material world. Followers of the Path believe that they fulfill a
destiny as creatures tied to the physical world through vampiric immortality. Because vampires have been
denied the spiritual realms of death, the Albigensians reason that they must serve the vices of the physical
realm. Therefore, they seek to spread evil and corruption, seeing iniquity as their natural state.
The Albigensians have perfected a code of evils in which to indulge, however. Theirs is not a Path of
pointless amorality. Taking the beliefs of the original Cathar priests and twisting them, these vampires deliberately
search for means of spreading evil. They pursue sins of greed, lust, and pride avidly. Cathars seek material
wealth and comforts, and they encourage others to do the same. A vampire can serve his proper purpose
only by embracing the flaws inherent to his form and to the world, and accepting his duties as a purveyor of
vice. Followers of the Path of Cathari thus ironically find spirituality in depravity.

The Ethics of the Path
• Indulge in vice. Wealth, sensuality, and material power are hallmarks of the physical world.
• Lead others to temptation. It is your role to promote the depravity of the world.
• Grant the Curse of Caine to those with great passion. Undeath is an evil curse, but those with great
conviction can use it well.
• The entire material world and its denizens are corrupt. Expect betrayal and wickedness.
• Your role as a creature of evil is predestined. Accept it and fulfill your purpose.
• Death simply leads to reincarnation. Mortals return after you kill them. However, you should avoid Final
Death, since you will return as a mortal if you die.

History
The Path of Cathari grew out of the aftermath of the Albigensian Crusade in the 13th century. The Manicheanist
beliefs in dualism influenced some members of the Church, leading to a 30-year war that many
believe led to the creation of the mortal Inquisition. After Albigensian vampires resurfaced following the
crusade, they developed this moral system out of the logical consequences of their philosophy, seeing vampires
as tied to the mortal world and therefore purveyors of evil, while the spirits of humans possessed the only
potential for good. Soon, many vampires took it upon themselves to fulfill their “duty” as providers of the
mortal world’s corruption. Over the intervening years, the Path changed to include broader philosophies and
less formal religious overtones. The Path continued to prove adaptable, keeping the core belief of vampires as
traffickers in the vices of the material world. Quite a few vampires find purpose in the business of pleasure — and damnation.

Current Practices
The Albigensians lead others to temptation, despoiling the purity of the spirit. Neonates and elders alike
can be found among the Albigensians. Many practitioners see the fast-paced, decaying modern world as
a sign of success for the forces of the evil creator, and they seek out ever more challenging converts among
mortals and vampires alike.

Description of Followers
Albigensians are hedonistic and impulsive, but they believe that they serve a purpose. The followers of this
Path are not lazy; rather, they undertake their duties with fanatical abandon. Each Albigensian considers it
his duty to embody the vices of the material world and to share those comforts and pleasures with others. The
Cathari encourage others to explore their monstrous natures and to spread hedonism among mortals.

Following the Path
Cathari are usually quite passionate, devoted to vulgarity and pleasure. They see the mortal world as a vast
playground wherein they may satiate their base urges and encourage others to do likewise. Believing themselves
to be agents of immorality, the followers of this Path are often highly social, befriending and using others
to serve their sinful purposes.

Common Abilities: Followers of the Path of Cathari indulge freely in vices and materialism, and they
seek to spread these excesses. Thus, Social Abilities like Subterfuge and Streetwise are most useful. Some
Albigensians also use Finance and Bureaucracy to earn money, making their unlives more luxurious. A few of
the more studious followers of the Path indulge in Occult knowledge and Academics in order to study the
roots of the Path.
Preferred Disciplines: Albigensians prefer Disciplines that allow them to fulfill their grim purpose. Dominate
and Presence are most valued for the ability to coerce mortals into cooperation. They regard the Discipline
of Animalism highly as well, due to its reflection in Biblical powers, from which the followers of this Path
take some of their beliefs.

The Path of the Feral Heart

Nickname: Beasts
Virtues: Conviction and Instinct
Bearing: Menace. Those in the presence of a Beast know that she is a true hunter, just as deer do when
confronting a wolf. The bearing modifier applies to rolls aimed at terrifying or cowing an opponent.
Basic Beliefs: Vampires are the ultimate hunters — immortal and invulnerable. The Beast Within is merely
the expression of the predator’s instinct. To deny one’s atavistic impulses is to go against the dictates of
nature, or so this Path’s followers believe. A vampire can only survive by adhering to her inner character
and accepting the monstrous drives that accompany the unliving state. Though the Beasts do not revel in
their predations, neither do they avoid them. By learning to accept the role of hunter, thereby acknowledging
the proper role of the unliving, a vampire becomes like an animal: feral, predatory, but ultimately in her
proper place.
A follower of this Path feels that the Beast is a natural part of being a vampire and that its needs must be
satiated. Still, the vampire is intelligent, and a cunning hunter is a more effective one. Therefore, it is important
to strike a balance between Beast and Man — the feral cunning and vicious instincts of the vampire are
excellent survival tools, tempered by the reasoning and insight of the mind. By satiating the Beast’s urges from
time to time, the vampire ironically gains a greater degree of personal control.
Vampires on the Path of the Feral Heart (sometimes called the Path of the Beast) have little use for the
trappings of civilization or education. Modern transportation and weaponry is unnecessary, for the unliving
form provides the necessary tools to stalk and kill. Subterfuge and politics are trivial concerns; politicking
does not bring blood to one’s throat. Vampires are made to hunt and kill, and the followers of this Path
excel at both.

The Ethics of the Path
• Survival is your first concern.
• Politics or technology simply get in the way of the hunt.
• Learn to strike a balance with your Beast. Engage in the brutal actions necessary to survive, but retain
your intelligence and cunning.
• The “natural world” is an illusion. All things must live according to their forms, and even civilization is
natural because it is the form of humanity.
• Although fire can kill you, you must master your fear so that you can kill those who would use it against
you.
• Whether running alone or with a pack, your loyalties must be absolute. You have no time for shifting
allegiances.

History
The Path of the Feral Heart seems to have grown out of ancient codes by which vampiric berserkers accepted
their animalistic nature. Espoused originally by the Gangrel, the Path spread to a few other vampires
who learned to elevate their predatory ways. This Path was never a popular one, but its constituency remained
constant throughout the ages. The Path has changed relatively little over the years. Beasts see no real need
to “adapt” the Path to a more modern age.

Current Practices
Beasts have no real organization, and they rarely engage in any sort of concerted rituals or traditions.
Some few nomads, though, exist as wandering hunters. When Beasts meet, they often indulge in the Gangrel
practice of sharing stories or indulging in a little practice combat. Beasts also serve as frighteningly effective
assassins; their loyalty, once given, is unquestionable.
Beasts who feel that a particular individual is a threat to themselves or their pack are relentless in hunting
and destroying the opposition.

Description of Followers
Most Beasts care little for fashion or attire, instead choosing functional clothing that serves well while
hunting. Some Beasts even disdain ornamentation and clothing completely, though these are rare. Followers of
this Path often have a great attunement to their senses, and such individuals are often noted carefully listening
to and watching their surroundings at all times, or even staying in constant slow motion and sniffing at the air
so as to avoid hidden adversaries. Many Gangrel follow this Path, and they invariably have animalistic features
that they do not bother to conceal.

Following the Path
Beasts must always recognize and indulge in their predatory natures. Followers of this Path therefore
strive to develop their prowess as hunters. A Beast has little desire to use the trappings of technology, believing
that the vampiric form provides him with all of the powers necessary to survive. Indulgence in politics is
frowned upon, as there are more important matters to handle; force is a simpler and often more effective tool.
Mercy and compassion have no place in the predator’s heart, and enemies must be harshly destroyed while allies
and packmates are protected, as they in turn protect the individual. Beasts do not kill whimsically, but
when killing is necessary, there must be no hesitation.

Common Abilities: Not surprisingly, most Beasts are highly skilled trackers and hunters. Survival is paramount
among these vampires, as well as Brawl and Athletics. Animal Ken is common, though a Beast
is just as likely to feed upon an animal as to emulate it. Because they are in touch with their inner natures,
many followers of this Path develop a great deal of Empathy — not that they feel any pity for their prey,
but rather they intuitively understand the motives of their victims. Intimidation is also fairly common, for
the simmering fury just below the surface of the Beast’s outward calm is truly terrifying.
Preferred Disciplines: Disciplines are a matter of survival for followers of this Path. Animalism is useful
in learning from lesser predators and for feeding. Fortitude is valued, as Beasts must be rugged enough to survive
any conditions. The natural weapons and hunting benefits of Protean are likewise considered valuable,
and some Beasts learn Obfuscate or Celerity to become faster and cagier hunters.

The Path of Honorable Accord

Nickname: Knights
Virtues: Conscience and Self-Control
Bearing: Devotion. The Knights keep their word, and are very difficult to sway from their duty. The bearing
modifier affects rolls to resist attempts to manipulate or force them to go against their given purpose.
Basic Beliefs: In a world rife with corruption, malevolence, and insanity, some vampires find direction
through a firm and unyielding code of personal conduct. These vampires do not delve into philosophical
questions of existence or wanton indulgence of their monstrous sides. Instead, they focus upon one singular
principle: honor. Order, fairness, and duty are the watchwords of these undead, and though still monstrous,
they abide by standards of conduct that are rigidly understandable.
To a follower of this Path, unlife must be given direction and purpose. These vampires choose honor as their
guiding hand. By focusing on firm rules and personal boundaries, the Knights keep the rage of the Beast at
bay. Accepting a duty and fulfilling its obligations provides the Knights with goals to achieve. Bound by their
codes of honor, these vampires uphold causes with the utmost devotion, even to the ends of their unlives.
Make no mistake; the vampires who follow this Path are not compassionate or humane in any sense. Indeed,
they see humans as little more than chattel or food, and undeserving of the considerations of honor that
are bestowed upon other vampires. Even so, a Knight will never willingly break his given word or renege
on an agreement, as doing so would be a disgrace to personal honor. The subject of commitment matters
little to a follower of this Path. It is the strength of the commitment and the unyielding determination that is
important.
Many of the beliefs of the followers of this Path mirror the feudal codes of chivalry or the bushido of the
samurai. Knights gladly suffer Final Death before showing cowardice or betraying their allies. Similarly, this
Path‘s soldiers uphold the policies of their Sects and organizations with fanatical zeal. Pitted against an unyielding
or recalcitrant foe, a solitary Knight is a fatalistic and deadly warrior.

The Ethics of the Path
• Always keep your word and honor your agreements.
• Never show cowardice. Overcome your fears.
• Duty comes before personal matters.
• Treat your equals and betters fairly and equitably. The dishonorable are beneath your contempt.
• Always repay your debts.
• Support your comrades-at-arms in all things, except where they counsel treachery.

History
The Path of Honorable Accord grew out of bygone nights, as vampires of the Dark Ages grappled with the
problems of human morality by finding a harsh and unyielding code of conduct to replace the ethics of mankind.
Sabbat followers of the Path turned their loyalty to the idealism of the Sect and the letter of the Code
of Milan, in the process acquiring the moniker “followers of the Code.” There are also some Camarilla Archons
and Alastors who follow the Path, loyal agents reserved for the most dangerous or difficult missions. A
rare few Camarilla elders, primarily Ventrue, hold on to the precepts of this Path from their nights of vampiric,
medieval chivalry.
Bound by loyalty to the ideals of their Sects, combined with a strong sense of duty and honor, the Knights
fought to uphold the unity of both the Camarilla and the Sabbat over the centuries. Now, the Path of Honorable
Accord forms the backbone of the Sabbat. The dedicated Knights are the core of the Sect, serving the
ideals of the Sabbat with inhuman devotion.

Current Practices
Followers of the Path of Honorable Accord have always placed a high value on ritual and ceremony. As a
whole, the followers of the Path seek to knit together disparate factions under the common banner of loyalty
to a cause. Although alternately ignored or derided by followers of other Paths, the Knights are a stern example
of the best qualities of any vampire, and they cannot be faulted by their brethren. Knights do not often
take leadership positions (as they find the political duplicity appalling), though they are at the forefront
of many battles, showing courage and discipline unmatched by any other soldiers among the undead.

Description of Followers
Knights are by turns cold and aloof, yet honorable and trustworthy. A Knight never goes back on his word
and always honors his agreements. He does not shirk his duty or flee from battle. Still, he is far from humane:
The Knight sees humans as a resource, just as another warrior might see a fine warhorse as admirable but far
from an equitable associate. Many of this Path’s followers display a grim and taciturn image, but the Knights
are capable of humor and joviality — they simply find that duty outweighs personal gratification.

Following the Path
A follower of the Path of Honorable Accord must always keep honor foremost in his mind. A Knight cannot
act rashly or in haste; he must always be aware of the nature and consequences of his actions. The devout
student of this Path must hold onto courage and discipline at all times while he seeks to dispense justice and
fairness. The true Knight fights and dies for his cause.

Common Abilities: Knights study Melee, Brawl, and Athletics. Leadership and Expression are valued assets,
as the Knight is often called upon to mediate disputes fairly. Similarly, Investigation and Law can help to discern
truth and justice.
Preferred Disciplines: Fortitude and Presence are considered the epitome of the Knightly way; these
vampires are stalwart in defense and eloquent in discourse. Since so many Knights follow a martial destiny
in the turbulent modern nights, Potence is fairly common as well. The Salubri antitribu of the Sabbat also
develop the puissant abilities of Valeren.

The Path of Lilith

Nickname: Bahari, Lilins
Virtues: Conviction and Instincts
Bearing: Tribulation. The Bahari see enlightenment through pain and conflict, and they learn to turn pain
to their advantage. The bearing modifier affects rolls impacted by their own wound penalties.
Basic Beliefs: Considered heretical by most Cainites of the Sabbat, the fragments of Lilith’s teachings —
sometimes erroneously referred to as the Lilith Cycle — showcase an elaborate history and an alternate tale
of Creation itself. Cast out from the first garden for the crimes of elevating herself with the Fruits of Knowledge
and Life, and for seeking to be equal to both man and God, Lilith wandered the unformed and barren world,
becoming a power of creation equaling the deities of old. Through tribulation and pain she discovered the
ways of survival; by fire and thorn she created her own garden, a mirror of the suffering and enlightenment
that she endured. The architect of Caine’s power, the creator of magick, and the mother to gods, Lilith watered
the seeds of wisdom with her own blood, which empowered anyone to walk through the fire and swim
through the frost to come to the revelation of ultimate freedom and self-empowerment.
Claiming followers among vampires and other denizens of the hidden world, the Bahari practice the ancient
ways handed down by Lilith. By following the image of the mother-goddess, they raise themselves
from the status of children. Like a parent disciplining an errant child, Lilith passes on a legacy of pain
that teaches, and so the Bahari seek to overcome the weaknesses of their blind, helpless births, ascending to
understanding and power. By walking in fire, impaling themselves on thorns and blades, suffering deprivation,
and plunging into icy water, the Bahari excite their bodies and minds to true sensation, and open their
consciousness to the entirety of the world. From the dizzying heights of comprehension, at the needlepoint
of pain, they learn the true measure of creation, that they may take the formless stuff of the world and cast
it in a new image.
Make no mistake, the Bahari have little room for compassion or conscience. They fully believe that one
must grasp the blade of enlightenment — and suffer its lacerations — before rising to the truth. Those who do
not have the will or the insight to learn through suffering are chaff, cast aside sadly but unhesitatingly. No
time or resource is wasted on those who do not have the overpowering need to suffer, change, and grow.
The Hierophants, the vampire-priests of Lilith, choose those who have heard Lilith’s song and punish, flagellate,
and excoriate them until they arrive on the cusp of seething awareness. Only then are the tears brushed
away with lover’s care, the wounds comforted, and the supplicants brought into the fullness of Lilith’s glorious
Path.

The Ethics of the Path
• Only through pain are we elevated.
• Be teacher, torturer, and lover to any who seek enlightenment.
• Practice what you learn. Wisdom is meaningless unless it accompanies action.
• Cultivate a garden, that you may show the power of your own creation.
• Seek out those on the border of awareness and initiate them.
• Gather with your brothers and sisters to share your learning and anguish.

History
According to apocryphal tales, the cult of Lilith started when a vampire Methuselah, searching for ancient
artifacts in Africa some millennia ago, discovered strange writings purported to tell of the Dark Mother.
Although this Cainite could not acquire the artifacts, he carried with him the knowledge of what he had
seen. Soundly defeated by the mortal and demonic guardians of the writings, he retreated to gather others
to him with the knowledge and insight to delve into the mysteries pieced together from the fragments. Over
the years, followers of the Path of Lilith slowly spread their archaic knowledge, drawing in small numbers
of erudite and mystically curious vampires. The Path eventually took on aspects of religion as it absorbed the
rituals and ceremonies of its followers’ native lands.
The Path of Lilith never had very much of a following in the Sabbat, where the antithetical Path of Caine
took sway, but enough followers existed to ensure that the Path survived. Indeed, even some elders of the Camarilla
came to follow the Path. As rumors of Gehenna grow, more vampires are drawn to the apocryphal teachings
of this Path. The visions of Caine as a blundering fool, cursed with incredible power that he refuses to understand,
draw together vampires who seek an alternate means to survive the End Times. Through the auspices of
the Dark Mother, they hope to rise above their Cainite nature and become untouchable to the Antediluvians.

Current Practices
Modem Bahari inherit many of the traditions of their ancient forebears. The followers of this Path rarely
discard rituals or beliefs, for only true understanding of all of the world’s mysteries can unlock the door to
enlightenment. As such, the Bahari employ many and varied rites of worship. They often cultivate the hidden
knowledge of alien cultures, and they are quick to absorb and adapt new and different occult practices.
Because of this openness, Bahari engage in a loose network of vampires who trade lore and mystical knowledge,
even dealing with wizards, ghosts, and other keepers of ancient secrets. Bahari often practice rituals
that are bizarre even by the standards of the Sabbat, and though they are loyal as long as they may continue
to practice their rites, the final loyalty of all Bahari is ultimately to themselves.

Description of Followers
Bahari live fast-paced, hectic unlives, constantly striving for the next change and the next learning experience.
Anything that shocks or outrages the sensibilities of others is fair game, since there is always the
hope of pushing someone beyond the boundaries of the banal. Bahari cherish the development of personal
understanding, so followers of this Path can be found equally among the squalid and the wealthy. When moving
among mortals, Bahari are flamboyant and mysterious.
In their ceremonies, they often wear flowing, open cloaks and ceremonial masks of wood or bone.
Contrary to some beliefs, this Path is not exclusively followed by women, although they do make up a majority
of its practitioners. Anyone who throws away the caul of childish ignorance for painful maturity is welcome
in the circle of Lilith.

Following the Path
A Lilin breaks with convention, flouting “accepted society” in order to force others to re-evaluate their
views of the world. With the branding-iron and the scourge, the Cainite brings painful lessons that, if survived,
make the postulant stronger. Those who hover on the edge of awareness are watched carefully for
the final soul-wrenching revelation that brings them strength. To visit pain and even death is the greatest
gift that can be given, for through these trials the individual comes to understand herself. Each must discover
her own inward seeds of Knowledge and Life, so as to become a universe unto herself and an architect
of creation. The garden, the symbol of life shaped and cultivated with care, is the manifestation of the Bahari’s
devotion to expressing what she has created and learned.

Common Abilities: Medicine, an understanding of the body in order to dispense pain without killing, is
first and foremost among a Lilin’s skills. As mystics of the ancient secrets, Occult is crucial. Academics and
Science are also valuable tools in the search for truth.
Preferred Disciplines: Lilith is said to have invoked various powers in herself as she walked the unformed
earth, powers that aided in her survival. Bahari often emulate these powers, focusing upon the Disciplines of
Animalism, Celerity, Fortitude, and Obfuscate.

The Path of Metamorphosis

Nickname: Metamorphosists
Virtues: Conviction and Instinct
Bearing: Inhumanity. Metamorphosists work steadily to become something other than human. Bearing
modifiers apply to Intimidation, as well as any Manipulation rolls that can be positively affected by frightening
the target.
Basic Beliefs: The world is made up of evolutionary chains. Animals are below humans, who are below the
Kindred. The metaphysical, arcane members of Clan Tzimisce follow this Path, which focuses on defining
and attaining the state of being beyond the curse of vampirism. Citing their transformative use of Vicissitude,
the Tzimisce believe they have the potential to transcend the constraints of the flesh. Hearing Metamorphosist
Fiends speak, however, reveals the true monstrosity of their philosophy. They believe that the
next step is a state akin to apotheosis, and they will do anything — anything — to achieve it.
The Tzimisce are characteristically thorough in their study of this Path’s ideals. By coordinating their experiments
on living, dead, and undead subjects (as well as other curiosities they may come across, like werewolves
or the errant faerie), the Fiends have formed complex theories as to precisely what the next step in vampiric
transcendence is. The solitary and suspicious Tzimisce rarely compare notes, however, and the Path’s development
suffers as each follower spends much of her unlife learning the rudiments that other Kindred have
already deciphered.

The Ethics of the Path
• Learn the characteristics of all stages of life and death.
• One should not concern oneself overly with mortals — they are a step below the Kindred, not above
them.
• Do not share knowledge with others, as it is too valuable to trust to flawed creatures.
• Indulge the Beast and deny it; true comprehension of unlife requires a broad range of experience.
• One should alter and augment one’s body — changing the flesh may pave the way toward changing
the soul.
• Do not heed the needs or desires of others, as their lack of introspection may distract even the keenest intellect.
History

The Tzimisce have researched this Path in their solitary way for literally thousands of years. They have always
been creatures of tremendous mystical potential; the followers of this Path seek to realize that potential.
Followers of this Path relate very little to the world outside themselves, and many relate this fact to the inexorable
decline of the Clan itself.

Current Practices
Most Metamorphosists claim membership in the Sabbat but pay it little more than lip service, involved
as they are in more esoteric pursuits. In truth, this Path predates any Sect, and Kindred committing themselves
to it subscribe to beliefs and creeds far older than petty notions of Kindred politics.

Description of Followers
Followers of the Path of Metamorphosis are truly some of the most alien creatures any Kindred could
meet. Metamorphosists are cold, utterly inhuman, and exactingly scientific. Their concerns are metaphysical
rather than ethical, and it is precisely this frame of mind that leads many to believe that the Metamorphosists
have literally begun their transformation into something else. Some take this a step further by altering
their flesh in various means until they no longer have a recognizable gender or look even remotely human.

Following the Path
Metamorphosists conduct all manner of bizarre experiments, most of which take place far from others’
eyes. It is a distant, lonely philosophy, removed from any needs other than the matter of sustenance. Followers
should be heedless of others around them, existing only to satisfy their personal concerns.

Common Abilities: This Path concerns itself almost exclusively with Knowledges, particularly those of Occult,
Medicine, and Science. Many Metamorphosists also specialize Academics in areas such as philosophy
and theology in hopes of uncovering secrets unexplored in larger fields of study.
Preferred Disciplines: The Tzimisce Metamorphosists favor attention to their unique powers of Vicissitude.
Thaumaturgy and Auspex are also highly prized.

The Path of Night

Nickname: Nihilists
Virtues: Conviction and Instinct
Bearing: Darkness. Nihilists give off a faint air of inner darkness, inspiring those around them to dwell on
their darkest fears and thoughts. Their bearing modifier applies to any attempts to bring out a victim’s inner
darkness, such as eliciting dirty secrets from a wellrespected politician or convincing a saint to break her
vow of chastity.
Basic Beliefs: Those vampires who follow the Path of Night wholly accept their damnation; indeed, they
believe that, as vampires, it is their preordained role to act as agents of damnation. Unlife is nothing without
pain, and misery enjoys company. This Path is practiced largely by young Kindred of Clan Lasombra, who
gladly mortify their own souls in the interests of bringing atrocity to the world.
The Path of Night borrows heavily from Catholic dogma, though it concerns itself more with abandonment
and damnation than redemption. The vampire’s purpose in unlife, according to this Path, is to scourge
the Earth, to act as an agent of evil and, thus, ultimately to do the bidding of the greater powers that dictate
good and evil alike. No one lives without original sin, and those who follow this Path are beholden to expose
and exacerbate that sin. Life and unlife are varying states of damnation; those who fail to realize their full
potential are lost sheep, suitable only for slaughter.
This is one of the most terrible Paths in existence, as it concerns itself with the outright and intentional
persecution of others. Its followers are more than mere bullies or sadists, however. One who receives the curse
of Caine is bound by fate and duty to wreak vengeance upon the Children of Seth. In so doing, vampires on
this Path hope that, by fulfilling the roles meant for them, they can transcend those roles and find ultimate
peace. This final goal aside, though, the Path of Night is a Path of hostility and antagonism, and the company
of those who follow it is extremely hard to abide.

The Ethics of the Path
• Leave no being untouched by your taint.
• Tempt and horrify those around you; the weak will fall, while the strong will be tempered by your testing
of them.
• Inspire others to accept their inner darkness.
• Experience every sensation imaginable, and then some.
• Death is a means, not an end.
• Kindred, as souls damned by God, fulfill their purpose by preying upon mortals.

History
Few, if any, have certifiably chronicled this Path’s inception or evolution. By varying accounts the outgrowth
of medieval death cults, Satanic cabals, debased Methuselahs, or the practices upheld by Adam’s
first wife Lilith and her children, the Path of Night has been forsaken by most Kindred with any sense of
Humanity at all. Some suspect a coterie of Lasombra known as the Black Angels foment dissension among
the Clan, turning impressionable Keeper neonates down the Path’s unwholesome trail.

Current Practices
No sin is too vile for a follower of this Path to indulge, and no trust is too sacred to break. Kindred on
the Path of Night tie their fates very closely to mortals, who bear the brunt of their depredations. As harbingers
of damnation, the Nihilists cull the secret fears and sorrows of humans around them, inflicting these
terrors upon the kine as the whim takes them. Ironically, vampires on this Path often have great reverence
for those whom they perceive as truly “good” or “blessed.” Indeed, one infamous Keeper, who plagued
a family of witch-hunters down three generations and was finally destroyed by a scion of the line, is rumored
to have praised his destroyer for her resolve.

Description of Followers
This Path is upheld almost exclusively by Lasombra, though the Keepers find occasional converts among
other Clans. Lasombra who follow this Path are held in low regard by many other Keepers, as there is no
room for nobility on this Path. While most Lasombra maintain other codes of morality drawn from the Sabbat,
the ones who follow this Path are true fiends.

Following the Path
Vampires on the Path of Night terrorize their victims, a term which may apply to anyone to whom the
Nihilist is drawn. Kindred on this Path are loath to kill — that removes potential targets, though they are
not above doing so if the death may cause great grief to others or if preventing it would inconvenience their
own existence. To some degree, the Nihilists shepherd the kine, showing them what may await them if they
are unrepentant. However, no follower of this Path would openly admit such a thing. In their own minds,
they are devils, pure and simple.

Common Abilities: Kindred on this Path specialize in Abilities that allow them to torment others. Brawl,
Intimidation, Melee, and Medicine (for physiological knowledge) all have their value.
Preferred Disciplines: Followers of this Path cultivate Obtenebration for the sheer terror it inspires, as
well as Potence for the pain it allows one to inflict.

The Path of Paradox

Nickname: Shilmulo (a Romani word for vampire)
Virtues: Conviction and Self-Control
Bearing: Confidence. The Shilmulo believe that they are in the exact place and time they are meant to
be, doing what they are meant to do — and it shows. The bearing modifier applies to attempts to manipulate
or lead others.
Basic Beliefs: Inspired by Hinduism and upheld predominantly by vampires of the Ravnos Clan, the Path of
Paradox concerns itself with the vampires’ karmic duty to continue the grand cycle of ages. According to the
Path of Paradox, Kindred are locked perpetually outside the illusory cycle of the universe (maya). Whereas
most beings are reincarnated through samsara, a continual “entanglement” in the cycle of rebirth, Kindred
have eluded that cycle. Every individual has his own purpose, or svadharma, according to the Path of Paradox,
although vampires, excluded from the cycle, have lost theirs. In place of the dharma they once followed,
each Kindred must now try to advance maya, hopefully understanding it in the process and finally penetrating
the great illusions that shroud Ultimate Truth from their eyes.
The means by which the Ravnos undertake this cyclical advancement, however, is by selective deception.
Other vampires look upon the Ravnos as untrustworthy, and can hardly be expected to take the
advice of the Deceivers. As such, the Ravnos have had to resort to elaborate ruses in order to get other
vampires — or, indeed, anyone with whom they come in contact at all — to undertake a course of action.
Ravnos vampires see their undead state as a curse, like many other Kindred do. However, the Ravnos believe
this is due to their failure to understand maya. Other Kindred, also removed from the karmic wheel, often
fail to realize the necessity of their return to the cycle. Shilmulo understand this — and expedite their return
by destroying them.

The Ethics of the Path
• Embrace only if absolutely necessary, and then only from the jati (family line).
• Interpret the svadharma of others and aid them in their fulfillment of it.
• Destroy other Kindred, for they are unnatural to maya.
• Erase karmic debt, dispel maya’s illusions and return to the samsara.
• Use deception to achieve your ends, as others bear the fault of distrust.
• Confuse the Antediluvians by returning their childer to the cycle.

History
This Path arose among the Ravnos during the latter nights of the Roman Empire. The deceit the Ravnos
command is even believed by some to have played a major role in the collapse of the empire. The Path, according
to many Ravnos, had become debased shortly after Rome’s collapse and had remained so for hundreds
of years until a stirring (and secret) event contrived to encourage the Ravnos to rethink their ways.

Current Practices
It is too simple a conceit to say that the Ravnos destroy vampires and burn karma. In fact, the Path of
Paradox is arduous and demanding. Many of the Ravnos’ deceptions are, in reality, complicated tests designed
to cause the subject to reveal hidden aspects of herself. Thus, the Ravnos travel the world, ousted by
ignorant Kindred who fail to realize the necessity of the Shilmulo’s duties.

Description of Followers
Most followers of this Path are Ravnos, though small numbers of Malkavians and Gangrel adhere to the
Path. Increasingly cosmopolitan Kindred have surfaced among the Ravnos Clan, indicating that either
the Ravnos pay little heed to their code or that jati are more extended than one might think.

Following the Path
Kindred on the Path of Paradox commonly hold other vampires in contempt, believing that they ignorantly
or arrogantly refuse to seek their reintroduction to the cycle. As such, the Ravnos have taken the responsibility
upon their shoulders to do it for them. This may require concocting complex webs of deception in
order to ascertain what a given person’s svadharma is, or simply destroying a vampire and placing her back in
the cycle, where a new svadharma awaits.

Common Abilities: Kindred on this Path focus on Abilities that allow them to gain advantage over others,
such as Alertness, Empathy, Subterfuge, Stealth, and Investigation.
Preferred Disciplines: Followers of this Path practice Chimerstry in order to dupe their subjects and as a
means of manipulating the illusions intrinsic to maya. Shilmulo favor Fortitude as well, to protect themselves
from their subjects’ ire. Many also master Auspex, with which they may better divine hidden secrets.

The Path of Power and the Inner Voice

Nickname: Unifiers
Virtues: Conviction and Instinct
Bearing: Command. Unifiers are destined for power, and they know it. Those around them can feel their
commanding presence. Their bearing modifier affects rolls to command or lead others.
Basic Beliefs: When given eternal life, incredible power, and inhuman thirsts, the only true existence is
as an undying overlord. There is no use in pining for lost humanity or in secreting oneself away to study arcane
lore; vampires are without honor or compassion.
The role of a vampire is the role of a master. The followers of this Path see the exercise of power
and control as the best reason for vampiric existence. Control of the self and of the external world is the only
goal worth pursuing. To this end, a vampire must develop her abilities, extend her influence and play her
pawns. By bending the world to her will, the vampire creates order and stability. Every form of power, influence,
or control can be used to further some end.
Therefore, Unifiers seek all forms of power, whether political, material, or spiritual.
Unifiers follow their own insight when exercising their authority. Although this Path is highly concerned with
temporal power, it is also quite spiritual; Unifiers are avid pursuers of wisdom and enlightenment. Of course,
all such knowledge ultimately turns to the pursuit of personal power. By understanding oneself, it is possible
to begin to describe the motivations of others. True understanding, therefore, allows the vampire to unlock the
secrets of enemies and allies alike, to carefully dissect any situation and discern the most proper course of action.
From such judgments, the vampire decides upon the most favorable means of taking or keeping control.
The followers of this Path are rightly feared and respected.
No adherent to this Path tolerates weakness or failure; punishment is swift and often fatal. Indeed,
punishment serves not only to remonstrate the offender, but as an example to others. Thus, Unifiers have no
mercy or compassion. Sabbat packs with Unifier Ducti are Darwinian in the extreme.
Unifiers are consummate politicians and strategists.
Although blood bonds and emotional ties can motivate followers, the pragmatic students of this philosophy
recognize that such measures can be fought and compromised. Thus, vampires of this Path believe that
control should only be woven through methods that cannot be subverted: Pain, rage, desire, and depravity
are key among their tools. A recruit who serves out of loyalty can be bought; a follower who serves out of duty
can be blackmailed; an adherent who serves out of love can be disillusioned. Therefore, fear and respect for
power, anger, and hate directed towards one’s enemies, the fulfillment of lust and the lessons of pain make the
most persuasive directives.

The Ethics of the Path
• Do not tolerate failure — including your own. Punish it visibly and harshly.
• Be sporadic in your rewards. Drive your followers to excel, but never let them assume that reward follows
excellence.
• Strive for control by any means. Dominate the world around you and bend it to your will.
• Use the most effective tool for any undertaking. Hate, fear, and anger are key among these tools, but
feign benevolence.
• Show respect to those in authority, but replace them when they falter.
• Deal from a position of power. Do not show weakness.

History
The Path of Power and the Inner Voice supposedly started with a Lasombra by the name of Lord Marcus,
in the early 16th century. The Path‘s constant push to develop power and influence led to many followers
who devoutly supported the Sabbat in its early nights, and as such, many of the Path‘s adherents assumed positions
of authority during the formation of the Sabbat.
Even tonight, the Path is well-respected within the Sabbat, and some of its precepts have even started
to gain grudging acceptance among the power-hungry and jaded elders of the Camarilla.
Modern nights have seen an explosion of membership in this Path. Though always popular, the Path
has attracted many new followers from the expanding ranks of the Sabbat. The sheer ruthlessness and
shrewdness of many of these recruits is responsible for the slow evolution of the Path from a respectable but
dictatorial philosophy into a Path of iron-fisted, Machiavellian social tyranny.

Current Practices
Followers of the Path of Power and the Inner Voice do not have an organized association, but they do engage
in many similar practices. All Unifiers participate in War Parties and blood hunts, often assuming roles
of leadership. Various displays of willpower are a means to demonstrate power and self-mastery, so Unifiers participate
in many such rituals or opportunities as well.

Description of Followers
Unifiers are driven, confident, and even megalomaniacal. The need for control combined with introspection
makes followers of this Path into corrupt and brutish tyrants. Some followers of the Path espouse
dictatorship, but the truly enlightened use martial philosophy and an understanding of psychology to incite
their followers. The typical Unifier accepts no excuses, drives himself and his subjects mercilessly, and shows
no pity or compassion for failure.

Following the Path
A Unifier accepts no defeat. The appearance of benevolence is useful, but all failure must be punished
eventually. The follower of the Path must always strive to control the situations around him and heed his own
judgment. Respect should be given to those in positions of authority, but those who falter must be cast
down and replaced. Followers of this Path seek wealth, influence, and support. Rule should be achieved by any
means necessary — when alliances or honor are useful, they are used, but otherwise, fear and hate are more
appropriate. The Unifier constantly seeks out means of developing his own capabilities and furthering his
own agenda.

Common Abilities: Leadership, Intimidation, Politics, Subterfuge, and similar Abilities are highly appropriate
to followers of this Path. Unifiers often make a study of some sort of combat prowess, be it Brawl or
Melee, in order to back up their authority. Empathy can also highlight the way to inner awareness.
Preferred Disciplines: Dominate and Presence are most valued among the Unifiers for their ability to
exert direct control. Unifiers place emphasis on other Disciplines according to their own means of gathering
power. All Unifiers invariably seek to develop their natural Disciplines to their fullest potential.

The Path of Typhon

Nickname: Theophidians (only among themselves; the outside world knows them as Corrupters or by the
Followers of Set nickname, Serpents)
Virtues: Conviction and Self-Control
Bearing: Devotion. The Theophidians do everything with an eye to how they might best serve Set.
The bearing modifier aids in attempts to win converts and in rolls to resist powers based on other faiths (such
as True Faith – see p. 372).
Basic Beliefs: Vampires who follow the Path of Typhon have a truly sinister purpose in mind. Theophidians
seek the resurrection of their patron and father, Set. Though most vampires view Set simply as a mythical
member of the Third Generation, Theophidian doctrine teaches that Set was, in fact, a divine being
even before his Embrace. Indeed, Theophidians view Caine as a lesser being than Set, and claim that Set in
fact allowed Caine to Embrace him so that he might use the descendants of Caine to strike at his divine
counterparts, such as the mythical Gaia and Lilith. In this manner Set and the Setites fulfill their place in
the universe, acting as agents of entropy and breaking down the old so that the new may blossom.
Accordingly, this Path preaches the importance of influence and control. Many Setites on the surface appear
to be little more than pimps, pushers, and fixers; in truth, they are much more. Setites commonly view
other individuals as tools or resources to be used. By gaining control over others, the Setites may exploit
them to fulfill their own ends. Thus, rather than owing those who provide them with information or services,
the Setites reverse the role, and instead have their marks come to them first.
Followers of this Path revere Set as something more than a vampire — Set is attributed a deified status, almost
a literal translation of the Egyptian god of the Underworld. Ways to achieve this reincarnation differ,
and for this reason, the Followers of Set extend their influence in hopes of finding information wherever it
resides.

The Ethics of the Path
• Gather information, secret or otherwise, and learn how it applies to the resurrection of Set.
• Contribute to the Clan’s greater goal of reviving its slumbering master.
• Bring others under your sway, increasing your influence and capability.
• Subjugate the Beast, as its reckless wiles serve only itself.
• Maintain a veil of secrecy, for others look poorly upon this Path’s methods.
• Look for Set’s hidden signs and act upon them.

History
Theophidians claim a history dating back to nights before the First City. Whether or not this is true is
a matter of much debate, especially among detractors. Nevertheless, the widespread presence of human
myths that mimic the relationship between Set and Osiris lends credence to its longevity. For millennia,
the Theophidians have plied their degenerate trade from back alleys to holy temples and everywhere in
between. Many leaders among the Kindred and kine alike owe their acquisition of power to the followers of
this Path, though the prices they have paid are high.

Current Practices
Theophidians support no Sect other than their own Clan, though some Setites have forsaken the resurrection
of Set and actually oppose his quest from the ranks of the Sabbat. Many followers of this Path cultivate
blood cults of devout followers and indenture legions of desperate individuals to themselves. While
the Theophidians are not averse to doing “dirty work” themselves — quite the contrary — they reason that,
with others serving their purposes, they can accomplish much more. Thus, followers of this Path play
many roles: seekers, fixers, scholars, courtesans, and harvesters of souls.

Description of Followers
The Theophidians are frequently social chameleons, given their need to move through many different circles.
They are smooth, ingratiating, and wholly inspired by their greater cause. Followers of this Path rarely ask
favors of others; they prefer to help satisfy the desires of others and then call in favors. It is this side that non-
Setite Kindred see most frequently and despise; they publicly decry the vice-peddling and corruption of the
Followers of Set as breaches of the Masquerade or the puppetry of the Ancients. The Setites know the truth,
however: Other Kindred are loath to acknowledge the desires that a canny Theophidian can satisfy. Clever
Setites have even managed to convince non-Setite Kindred to follow this Path after long periods of corruption,
dependency, and debasement.

Following the Path
Followers of the Path of Typhon are first and foremost seekers of arcane lore, though their keen social
graces also make them silver-tongued diplomats. These Kindred are also insidious, working their way into existing
vampire societies with serpentine façades of false identities and cadres of loyal followers. The eldest
Theophidian in a given locale often erects a temple to Set in some out-of-the-way place to better serve the
slumbering god.

Common Abilities: Any Ability that helps the Kindred achieve her end is prized by the followers of this Path. As
such, the Theophidians have very diverse and capable members. Abilities of particular favor among the Setites
include Empathy, Intimidation, Streetwise, Subterfuge, Performance, Academics, Investigation, and Politics.
Preferred Disciplines: Theophidians are masters of the reptilian Discipline of Serpentis, though their dealings
with others inspire them to pursue the Setite Clan Disciplines of Presence and Obfuscate.

Brujah
The Path of Entelechy

Nickname: Philosophers
Virtues: Self-Control and Conviction
Bearing: Stoicism. The Philosophers bring a pragmatism to undeath that allows them to maintain equanimity in
the face of the childish taunts and cruel barbs of their less enlightened Kindred. The bearing modifier adds
on all rolls to resist frenzy when provoked by insults or other deliberately provocative actions by others. It does
not affect frenzy rolls triggered by other forms of rageinducing stimuli.
Basic Beliefs: The Path of Entelechy is ancient but was lost for centuries, and only recently recovered for use by
modern Brujah. An application of Stoic philosophy to the Brujah condition, the Path of Entelechy focuses on
protecting one’s Humanity, on searching for truth and purpose, and above all, on mastering the Beast and the
fury it provokes within the Brujah. The term entelechy comes from Aristotle and, among modern Brujah
Philosophers, means “self-actualization.” The pursuit of entelechy demands that the Brujah actively develop her
mind, her body, and her supernatural abilities. While the Path is consonant with Humanity, it is more proactive in
resisting the Beast.
An intellectual approach to unlife, the Path focuses on three fundamental concepts believed to have been essential
characteristics sought in potential Brujah progeny in the days of Carthage: enkrateia, reie, and sophrosyne.
Enkrateia refers to inner strength. It is not enough for the Philosopher to passively accept the frustrations that
come her way, as the Path of Humanity requires. Instead, she must hone her reason into a sword and her will into a
shield against the forces that would cause her to degenerate. In practical terms, this means that Philosophers usually
have high Willpower and Self-Control ratings or else aggressively pursue those traits.
Reie refers to moral courage. The Philosopher must not shirk her responsibility to pursue either enlightenment or
moral character out of fear of frenzy or other degradations.
Instead, she must confront difficult situations with reason and self-discipline, eschewing the impetuosity that
defines the modern Brujah. As a practical matter, this means that the Brujah will (or at least should) proactively
avoid situations that are likely to provoke frenzy or risk degeneration. At the same time, the Path also encourages
Philosophers to show courage in the face of adversity, but only to advance a cause the Brujah considers moral or just.
Sophrosyne means control of the self and represents the idealized goal of all Philosophers: mastery over the Brujah
rage. It also means that the Brujah has committed to an eternity of mental, spiritual, and physical development.
Philosophers develop sophrosyne by working to improve Physical and Mental Attributes and Abilities, rather than
focusing on Disciplines or Social traits.

The Ethics of the Path
• The Beast is weakness. Be strong and command it to be silent.
• Master one’s own true potential. Learn all that can be learned about one’s self.
• Do not show cowardice when deeply held moral principles are at stake.
• Mortals must not be taken for granted. Feed to live, no more.

History
Despite its ancient origins, the Path of Entelechy is a new phenomenon, driven largely by Brujah elders who
despair over the degradation of their once-proud Clan. Those founders look upon the fact that Brujah are called
“Rabble” with shame. Accordingly, they recruit younger Brujah who want something more than violence, anarchy,
and death out of unlife.
According to some tales, the principles that underlay the Path of Entelechy were espoused by the Brujah of
Carthage who supposedly had much greater control over their frenzies before the fall of that city. Others dismiss
such claims as wishful thinking, noting that there is no historical support for the idea that ancient Brujah were
any more resistant to frenzy than the modern Clan was.
While the Methuselahs who drive the expansion of this Path are certainly old enough to remember Carthage, they
are also old enough to have had centuries contemplating the Kindred (and particularly the Brujah) condition.

Current Practices
The numbers of Entelechy Philosophers is presently small, though they have ambitions to grow quickly. Most currently
reside in Europe, though the Philosophers who have advanced the farthest along the Path have begun “missionary work” in
America and especially in the decadent gang-laden enclaves of the Free States. Currently, most organized instruction
is offered in Greece and Crete, though the Chicago elder Critias has taken students in North America. Most of the
teachers will accept no more than four students at a time, so the growth of the Path has been slow.
Most Philosophers are Anarchs or autarkis. A few may be among the Camarilla, but they are discrete in their beliefs in
light of that sect’s general hostility towards Paths as opposed to Humanitas. It is possible that some Brujah among the
Sabbat seek enlightenment along this Path — stranger things have happened — but such Sabbat Philosophers would be
fantastically rare, as most of the Sect would consider the Path’s pro-Humanity precepts anathema.

Description of Followers
The most important sponsor of the Path of Entelechy is Menele, a Brujah Methuselah who psychically communes
with his followers even while his torpid body lies beneath the city of Chicago. The childe of Troile wants to leave a
legacy greater than 2,500 years of petty conflict with his old rival, the Toreador Helena. He has reached out to
fellow travelers in Greece and Turkey, and guides potential candidates to philosophy teachers in preparation for his
own imminent rising. He hopes that when that day comes, he will be met with a Clan of leaders and thinkers rather
than thugs.

Following the Path
The defining characteristic of the Path is its view of much of the vampiric condition as weaknesses they must
purge. The Beast is not a part of one’s nature to be parleyed with; it is an external force to be fought at all costs. Lust,
frenzy, hunger, and passion must all be resisted and beaten into spiritual submission. The Path leaders constantly
challenge adherents to improve themselves in the quest for personal excellence.

Common Abilities: Followers are expected to perfect themselves at Athletics, Alertness, and Expression, as
well as in Academics and Science. In addition, the Path’s emphasis on broad-based learning generally demands a
high degree of multicultural literacy, so it is common for Philosophers to have several versions of the Language
Merit. Greek and Latin are most common, but the most respected leaders of the Path are polyglots and are fluent
in numerous languages.
Preferred Disciplines: Most Philosophers are drawn to Disciplines that will facilitate control over the Beast.
Animalism is surprisingly common for that reason, but the few Philosophers who have initiated themselves into
blood magic aggressively pursue study of the Path of the Focused Mind. Many prize Auspex as a sign of strong mental
aptitude and Potence is valued above the other Physical Disciplines, due to the perception that it demonstrates
physical excellence.

Followers of Set
The Path of Ecstasy

Nickname: Ecstatics (sometimes known as Maenads or collectively as the Thiasus)
Virtues: Conscience and Self-Control
Bearing: Rapture. Ecstatics know how to use earthly sensations and passions to transcend the mundane.
Their bearing modifier affects rolls to excite extreme and transformative emotional responses in themselves
and others.
Basic Beliefs: Conventional morality is a rigged game set by the Aeons. All those rules, taboos, and obligations
shackling all the world’s souls. Shame is a thorny chain. To escape, the Ecstatics grease the spiritual fetters and
writhe and writhe.
For initiates on the Path of Ecstasy, the act of reveling is holy. They seek elation beyond mortal limits —
bacchanalian euphoria — pleasure so pure and passion so dire, the gods above quake. Ecstatics glut the beast with
sensation until it is sluggish and pliable. Although this path shares certain precepts and mythology with the Path
of Typhon, its practitioners reject the base cruelties of the Theophidians. Corruption is incidental. The pleasure’s
the thing.
For these serpents of mania, the pleasure has a higher function. In a world hopelessly ensnared in materialism,
the Ecstatics push that materialism to such extremes that they crash through the other side into a religious
experience. Ecstatics reserve a special contempt for secular sensualists. Hedonism without a spiritual dimension is
one of the few profanities they recognize.

The Ethics of the Path
• Pursuit of pleasure is a spiritual obligation. Those who adhere to the hypocritical moralities seek to befoul the
spirit.
• Ignite rapture in yourself and others. Spread holy delirium.
• To resist temptation is a great wrong.
• It is not a crime to kill, as long as the killing is committed beautifully.
• Erode the imprisoning paradigms of the Aeons whenever possible. Crossing taboos weakens them.
• Moments of transcendental rapture open a window to the beyond. Create these “beautiful moments” whenever
possible.

History
The Path of Ecstasy began as scattered seeds of spiritual philosophy, back in the earliest nights of the Theophidian
cults. It was not until after the fall of Egypt that the Followers of Set dwelling in Constantinople wove the
disparate threads into a cohesive whole. In that voluptuous scene of Byzantine decadence, the path founders reached
such levels of feverish mania, their supernal senses dilated. In that beautiful moment, the vistas of the true spiritual
war and their invisible enemies took on terrible clarity. Since then, the Ecstatics have waged that war, cloaked in
their guise as debaucherous sense junkies.

Current Practices
The modern world teems with so many more traps that drain the soul down to a dull, sepia husk, and yet so
many new ways to explore sensation. The Ecstatics exalt in the new challenges and possibilities. Theirs is a path
that benefits from an emotional feedback loop — ecstasy shared is ecstasy multiplied — so they work well with
mortal cultists. Ecstatics sprinkle themselves throughout the Setite cults and factions, with a large portion of their
number joining the Cult of Taweret. Ecstatics rarely get along with practitioners of the Path of the Warrior, but
the Typhonists tend to understand their worth. The Ecstatics make good ambassadors to the other Clans and
an excellent gateway to the larger Setite religion. Want the local Prince to underestimate your chthonic cult? Let the
Ecstatics be your face.

Description of Followers
Ecstasy takes on many forms, as do its practitioners. The drug pusher leads you away from the troglodytes of
the cocaine circle and rubs the semi-toxic extract of some extinct amphibian on your wrist. The meditation guru’s
voice, accompanied by the reversed recording of whales in distress, guides you to a screaming catharsis. The extreme
sports enthusiast shows you an all-new adrenaline high, before you have to flee the approaching red and blue
lights. The dominatrix invokes god through your nerve endings. The snake-handling preacher brings you to a
frothing rapture, as you writhe on the floor. Your eyes tear up at the beauty blessing your taste buds, as the epicurean
feeds you your ex-spouse.
While the Path of Ecstasy may appear outwardly similar to the Path of Cathari, they diverge in key points. The
Ecstatics are less concerned about corrupting the physical world, than they are about achieving preternatural ecstasy
to transcend it. Where the Albigensians see themselves as barred from the spiritual world, the Ecstatics see it as their
right and create windows to it through beautiful moments. Sin is not the end goal, but a potential tool in crossing
the tyrannous taboos of the moralists. The Ecstatics do not serve the cosmic Punch and Judy show of dualism,
but seek to break the paradigms entrapping the world.

Following the Path
Ecstasy is the art of extremes. Ecstasy produces a trancelike state in which one loses consciousness of one’s
surroundings, breaking down the hypocritical illusions that that bind one’s animus. This philosophy may seem
gentler than the other Setite Paths — and it often is — but it contains more frightening dimensions beneath. To achieve
the supernal, the Ecstatic must reach past the limits of human experience. They will go to any lengths to achieve
these beautiful moments. Any sensation that unlocks this is valid, any extreme emotion. Some do so through beauty
and pleasure, and some through the repulsive glamour of transcendent horror. Ecstatics often lose themselves to
their passion, rage with the terrible joy of the Maenads, and not everyone survives their Bacchanalian orgies. Ecstatics
often awaken wearing the parts of the one they loved the night before. Sparagmos is a holy rite.

Common Abilities: Ecstatics prize any aptitude that helps them inspire extremes in sensation and experience
in themselves and others. Useful Abilities include Crafts, Empathy, Expression, Medicine, Performance, Streetwise,
and Subterfuge.
Preferred Disciplines: As harbingers of rapture, an Ecstatic’s most prized discipline is Presence. They also find
Fortitude useful in allowing themselves to break thresholds of physical experience far beyond what a mortal could
endure. Auspex is particularly cherished by those on the Path.

Followers of Set
The Path of the Warrior

Nickname: Wraths (also known as the Warrior Setite bloodline nickname, Horned Vipers)
Virtues: Conviction and Self-Control
Bearing: Fury. The Wraths burn with divine rage. Their bearing modifier applies to cowing others (Intimidation
rolls) and even their own Beasts (rolls to resist both Frenzy and Rötschreck).
Basic Beliefs: Those who follow this path believe they honor the true ideal of Set — not a skulking corruptor, but
a warrior and hunter, a god of war and storms. They are the Wraths of Set. They know that words like “masochist”
and “fanatic” are synonymous with “worthy.” To be worthy, they must hone themselves, body and soul. The testing
of martial prowess is a holy sacrament, and every kill is a prayer sent floating down the River of Duat.
The Wraths fight a war both external and internal. They believe that the Beast is a creation of the mind, and that
by training the body until it is stronger than the mind, they can subjugate the Beast. They purify their sinful flesh
with pain and punishment. Agony is a sacrament. Scars are the illumined text written upon the holy book of the
warrior’s body. With every self-flagellation, the Wrath chants the mantra, “Until my Beast is afraid of me.”
The Wraths of Set are his shock troops in the Jyhad. Kine, Kindred, Lupines, and demons, all serve as prey; all
serve as tests. The warriors must be prepared for the night Set rises to gather his army. Every Wrath greets another
by praying, “And the storm shall be His hands.”

The Ethics of the Path
• The mind is subservient to the body, and so is the Beast. Although the body is bestial in nature, it can be refined.
The Embrace begins this process of transmogrification, but even afterwards, the warrior must be vigilant in
disciplining the Beast.
• You are a killer. Do not hesitate to kill. We are the holy plague of Set’s wrath made manifest.
• Scourge yourself, hurt yourself, push yourself to your limits, and know that by doing so, you hurt the Beast.
• Every moment is an opportunity to hone the self. Your mastery of vampire Disciplines is the measure of your
body and soul.
• Final Death is better than weakness. Like Set, we must be implacable and unyielding in the Jyhad waged against
his enemies.
• You must be ready for the resurrection of Set and the final battle.

History
After the Roman Empire crushed Egypt, disillusion took root among the Followers of Set. In the still hearts
of the truly devout, that disillusion transformed into righteous rage. These wrathful Setites believed that the
personal weakness of the Theophidian priests was the direct cause of Egypt’s downfall. Never again, vowed the
wrathful. Never again would they be so unworthy of Set’s favor. Never again would their enemies know a peaceful
night. The wrathful developed a path that would remake them into that terrible promise.

Current Practices
The Path of the Warrior has seen a resurgence in recent decades. Something in the mortal zeitgeist has formed
a generation eager for what the Wraths have to offer. Perhaps Set is stirring and calling out to the dreams of
the worthy. Practitioners of the Path, the world over, are reinvigorated. Their razor tongues taste something on the
wind. Their actions grow bolder. Many Wraths join the Cohort of Wepwawet, though most of the factions have
use for them, particularly the Cult of Typhon Trismegistus. The Wraths tend to despise the languid indulgence of the
Ecstatics. They would have set about purging them from the Setite religion if the Theophidians had not intervened.

Description of Followers
Wraths are disciplined, zealous, and vicious. They take holy joy in the suffering of an enemy. The singular
focus of their unlives is on becoming the ultimate urban predators. They often sport wounds that they refuse to
heal for several nights as a test of will. Though they focus on a martial interpretation of Set, followers of the Path are
not necessarily dull or inarticulate. Their power inspires awe in their cultists, and the terrible piety of their words
inspires devotion.

Following the Path
The Path of the Warrior is not an idle one. When not doing, a Wrath is preparing. The warrior must constantly
test herself. A warrior conditions her body and hones her combat skills. A warrior masters her vampire nature.
Self-mutilation and torture tempers the Beast and strips away any useable fear a would-be enemy could make use
of. What can anyone else do to you if you have already put yourself through hell? A Wrath must test herself
constantly. A follower of the Path may be called on to serve as protection (or retribution) for a local temple, or
she may start her own devoted solely to the warrior ideal.

Common Abilities: A Wrath constantly hones those skills useful to serving as one of Set’s elite killers. Useful
abilities include Alertness, Athletics, Brawl, Firearms, Intimidation, Melee, and Stealth. Those who lead a cult
or combat unit will also focus on Leadership.
Preferred Disciplines: Wraths consider the three physical Disciplines (Celerity, Fortitude, and Potence) to
be sacred. They believe that the punishment they inflict on themselves purifies their undead bodies, and mastery
of the physical Disciplines denotes purity. Presence and Serpentis are also important, as the former marks them
as children of a god, and the later marks them as favored by Set.