The Vampire Classes
08:13 Nov 26 2005
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THE VAMPIRE CLASSES
Caitiff: Even though many Caitiff are clanless but otherwise "normal" vampires, others have become so degenerate that they feed only off the weak and the dying. Some Caitiff live apart from vampire society on purpose, but many have been cast out. Some Caitiff were once apart of Kindred society, but have lost so much Humanity that they are unable to maintain relations with any other creatures. They know only survival, and live from night to night in search of food. Eventually they will die, but it may take many years.
Childe: Vampires of this class have not yet been introduced to the prince, nor have they been released by their sires. They are not considered to be full members of vampire society and are thus shown no respect. They are, in short, treated as children. The term is sometimes used out of contempt. Kindred who have committed especially stupid acts may be called and considered childer.
Neonate: These vampires have been recently released and presented to the prince, though they have not yet made their mark in their society. The neonate is the caste of youngest vampires who have been released by their sires. If they behave themselves and do not join the anarchs, they will eventually become ancillae, usually after 50 to 100 years.
Anarchs: The anarchs have status because they are noticed and respected for what little power they have achieved. They are recognized for their energy, drive, and consistency. Though they are the enemies of the elders and especially the prince, they are still respected, if not open, for by rebelling they have given themselves an identity.
Ancilla: These Kindred are still young, but have proven themselves to the elders. The ancillae are the up-and-coming Cainites, the ones who ply by the rules (mostly) in order to achieve greater power. This is the rank between neonate and the elder, wherein the vampire is given increasing respect and power. Most have existed for one or two centuries in their vampyric form.
Elder: When vampires reach a certain age, there are few above them who still hold power in vampire society. The elders are the Kindred who are in control and who seek to dominate all the others. The elders are normally between 200 and 1000 years old, but like all things undead, this can vary immensely. In Europe, a vampire has to be much older and more powerful to be considered an elder than she does in the New World.
Methuselah: When a vampire reaches a particular age, somewhere between 1000 and 2000 immortal years, a profound change invariably overtakes her. It has long been argued whether this change is mystical, biological or is in fact a social change brought about through changing needs and desires. Certainly by the time a vampire reaches this age, a boredom and melancholy sets in, as well as an increased paranoia. Those who are weak, take risks or unconsciously desire suicide do not survive to this age - only the very strongest attain the station of Methuselah.
As a means of self-preservation, Methuselahs retreat from the world and those younger than them. The constant struggle of facing the young reckless ones, who seek power through the blood of their elders, grows numbing. Eventually one of the anarchs will get lucky and dispatch the ancient. Thus, the only option is to retreat fully from society and go int torpor. Some Methuselahs remain involved in power sturggles and the Jyhad of the Kindred, but do so from complete anonymity.
Antediluvian: These are most ancient vampires, and they are likely the most powerful creatures in the world. For the most part they are considered to be the grandchilder of Caine, and are of the third generation. When they do involve themselves in the affairs of Kindred, they seldom leave things untarnished by thier touch. The mere word of an Antediluvian is enough to provoke enormous strife and conflict among the Kindred. Their eternal struggle, the Jyhad, affects all the Kindred.
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