D'baen

                        [HOUSE LEADERS]
                      Praetor: Alyssn
                Divine Patron: (nobody)
                         City: Bloodloch
                   

House D'baen was established by Empress Faith D'baen, fourth childe of then Emperor Abhorash Nehekhara, to foster excellence. Members of House D'baen have led in all aspects Aetolian life including helping found the Bloodborn, holding office as Keepers and Ministers of Bloodloch, serving with distinction in the armies that defeated and occupied Ashtan, and playing prominent roles in the orders of several Divinities. To this day, House members are expected to achieve distinction in some field of endeavor be it administration, combat, commerce, devotion, diplomacy, or scholarship.

The House has survived wars, realignment and modernization by preserving Consanguine tradition and by guarding the quality of its bloodline. In addition to the Legacies, the inviolate rules of Consanguine behavior and basis of all Consanguine law, two other traditions are particularly important: peerage and the Imperium. By wearing titles and using appropriate forms of address to those of both higher and lower bloodrank, the House recalls the history, dignity and nobility of all Consanguine. House D'baen supports the Imperium ideal of respect, cooperation and unity amongst all of the Blood and the Imperium mission today as a repository of Consanguine history, teaching and tradition.

While committed to tradition -- the current Praetor has reigned since the 17th of Variach 114 MA -- the House also values innovation and freedom of thought. Family members are independent and self-directed, free to pursue what interests them. For example, the House has no divine patron, instead, members are allowed worship whichever Divine suits them.

The Embrace is the mystical process by which a Sire transforms a mortal or undead thrall into an immortal Consanguine, a member of the Imperial bloodline that began with Emperor Abhorash Nehekhara, only childe of Queen Belladonna, the first to transcend death. Becoming Consanguine is more than becoming a vampire, it is embracing a noble culture, history and tradition, leading a decorous and honorable "life" in control of one's powers and ablities, and taking part in the society and insitutions at the apex of Aetolian life. The Embrace is a precious gift and D'baen does not bestow it lightly.

Candidates must be Consanguine, or mortals or undead committed to becoming one of the blooded as soon as possible. Those following the Praenomen or Bloodborn paths are equally welcome. Praenomen, the first-named, learn to project the vital power of their Consanguine blood into others by developing Sanguis skills. The Bloodborn study Hematurgy -- ways of using the intrinsic power of Consanguine blood in rituals to enhance one's power.

To ensure future members have the potential for greatness, servants and thralls are subjected to an intensive training regimen legendary in its depth and rigor. Those who survive the long journey and are chosen for the Embrace, will join an elite and illustrious House, a tight-knit and loyal family. Joining House D'baen means committing oneself to excellence -- great things will be expected.