Friday 25 November 2022

Vampire the Masquerade - V5 - Session Zero - Galerie Sanguine: San Francisco

I'm currently running a Vampire the Masquerade chronicle using the 5th Edition rule-set for a small group of fellow role-players.


Our primary chronicle is set in Los Angeles and features a small group of Camarilla agents sent into the 'Free States' to bring them back under Camarilla control. This however will be the first one of several planned interludes which will centre on the expansion of Baron Michael Tomassio's 'Galerie Sanguine' franchise to other domains.
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The now obligatory warning bit - These session write-ups will contain swearing, sexual references and other references that might offend. There are however a list of potential triggers listed before the introduction. I've also used actual photographs to represent some characters which I'll give acknowledgements to at the end if I've any idea who they are.
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Links to our main campaign, with a summary of each session can be found HERE.
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The PC's
Thomas Caldwell, Ventrue
Francis Maranzano, Lasombra

The Storyteller
Everyone else...

If I think something needs a bit of out of character explanation then those will get a storytellers note that will helpfully be in red. Introductory pieces that I read to the group are in Blue. Where particular NPC's have a mention in a faction profile you will be able to reach it by clicking on their name or faction beneath their picture.

Trigger Warnings for This Session: Blood (Obviously)

Storytellers Note - This session zero will also contain a lot of storytellers notes to explain how we folded our character creation ideas into the narrative.

Introduction: Welcome to San Francisco
You have been residents of San Francisco for three months now, preparing for the grand opening of the latest franchise of Galerie Sanguine. Your residency in the city is currently due to favours pulled in by the Venture Patrick Hodge who runs most of the cities sex trade, in return for the rescue of his childe Ricardo Beltane, from the unbound ghoul gang known as 'The Young Bloods', by agents of Michael Tomassio. 

Storytellers Note - That particular event can be found HERE, though if you wish to read the hole story then start HERE instead.

You have been granted a small feeding ground around the gallery itself which due to it's size has required careful managing of your feeding habits.

San Francisco at Night
You are located in Mission Bay in San Francisco in the up and coming Art District within it. Currently covering ten square blocks, the area is commonly referred to as DoReMi. (Do)gpatch, Pot(re)ro Hill, and (Mi)ssion. Your current feeding ground is a single block.

Storytellers Note - This first session was to finalise character creation and to pass on information to the player characters about what they could have reasonably learned about significant kindred within the city.

Establishing a gallery, effectively from scratch, was certainly a challenge.

The two kindred each approached the accumulation of the necessary resources and contacts in their own unique manner. Thomas Caldwell, a Ventrue business man through and through, utilised his skills of persuasion and negotiation. Though admittedly these natural talents were also supplemented by his supernaturally enhanced presence. Francis Maranzano, a Lasombra whose criminal talents complemented Thomas's more diplomatic approach, had instead intimidated a number of individuals into giving them very favourable terms for a variety of necessary services. Much of their stock was to be shipped to them from Michael Tomassio's original Galerie Sanguine in Los Angeles so they only had to put minimal effort into this part of the operation.

Mission Bay - San Francisco at Night
Storytellers Note - I ignored the rulebook's 'two dots each' recommendation for the set-up of their operation. Instead I gave them a single dot for free then one additional dot per two successes on the roll for their chosen method of generating business. They got ten successes between them giving them six dots to spend.

Combining both their efforts, they managed to acquire both funding for their gallery and the cooperation of several businesses that provided them with luxurious decoration, a simple but effective security system and some staff. Francis also managed to 'convince' a local construction firm to add an escape route in the basement without bothering to obtain planning permission or keep any records of the job.

Storytellers Note - In practical terms this equated to Postern 1, Herd 1, Luxury 1, Resources 2 and Security System 1. I gave them the building itself and the 'Haven' bit for free...

Scene One - Touchstones and Convictions
Both of the kindred had contacts within the city, but each had one that was significant to them individually.

Thomas had developed a close working relationship with a local businessman who had a genuine appreciation for art. Caldwell only really saw artwork as a way of making money, so had become fascinated with Toby Forster's desire to keep such works for reasons other than making a quick profit.

Toby Forster's Art Collection
Mr Forster had also invested heavily in the newly expanding artistic community and so was, in his own way, part of the community they were attempting to infiltrate. Thomas had decided to keep a close eye on this mortal and ensure that no other kindred interfered with him.

Thomas had another interest in the community, but this one was far more selfish. As one of Clan Ventrue he had far more rarefied tastes in blood than the other clans. Like many of his kind, the first taste of blood had become his preference.

Unfortunately for Thomas, his tastes were quite specific, though luckily there was no shortage of these within the artistic community. Caldwell only truly enjoyed the taste of blood from recovering drug addicts and gained little sustenance from any other kind without considerable acts of concentration.

It was for this reason that Thomas never preyed upon drug dealers. Without them there would be no addicts in the first place and so he refrained from feeding upon them.

The Church of Francis Maranzano's Priest
Francis Maranzano had always been a religious man and had a great respect for the church. Despite the beast within, or perhaps because of it, Francis made frequent visits to a local church and still went to confession. 

One secret that Francis never shared was the fact that he had killed several members of what was once his mortal mob family. Though he had been a 'Made Man' so were some of those he had killed, and this went fundamentally against the codes he had sworn to live by.

Though he was careful to phrase his sins in a way that never revealed what he truly was, he nonetheless appreciated the priests commitment to the sanctity of the confessional booth. Concerned with how close he was to breaking the masquerade, Maranzano had vowed to protect the priest from danger and hopefully also protect himself from the consequences of his own actions.

Both Thomas and Francis had their own codes of honour of sorts but fundamentally they both demanded respect, though were also more than willing to respect others if they had earned it.

Storytellers Note - Their Chronicle Tenet is "Respect others and demand respect."

Scene Two - The Player Characters
Storytellers Note - I gave out some bonus XP in order for them to fine-tune their characters a bit. These were the results...
Thomas Caldwell - Ventrue
Galerie Sanguine - San Francisco
Thomas Caldwell 
Clan - Ventrue
Generation - 10th
Predator Type - Scene Queen
Concept - Art Salesman
Conviction - "None may control me."
Ambition - Earn a place in Los Angeles
Desire - To be respected

XP Remaining - 1

Touchstone
Toby Forster - Local Businessman

Strength 2, Dexterity 1, Stamina 2
Charisma 4, Manipulation 3, Composure 3
Intelligence 3, Wits 2, Resolve 2

Health 5, Willpower 5, Humanity 7
Blood Potency 1

Skills
Firearms 1
Etiquette 3 (Anarch), Insight 2, Intimidation 1, Leadership 4 (Command), Performance 1, Persuasion 3 (Negotiation), Streetwise 2, Subterfuge 3
Academics 2, Finance 2, Politics 2, Technology 1
Disciplines
Dominate 3 (1: Compel, 2: Mesmerize, 3: The Forgetful Mind)
Fortitude 2 (1: Unswayable Mind, 2: Toughness)
Presence 1 (1: Awe)

Backgrounds - Contacts 1 (Cocaine Dealer), Fame 1, Haven 1 (Luxury), Influence 1 (Local Area), Retainers 3, Status 1 (Art Collectors).
Merits - Beautiful 2
Flaws - Addiction 1, Enemies 1, Prey Exclusion (Drug Dealers), Stalkers 1
Ventrue Feeding Restriction - Recovering Addicts

Francis Maranzano - Lasombra
Galerie Sanguine - San Francisco
Francis Maranzano
Clan - Lasombra
Generation - 12th
Predator Type - Alleycat
Concept - Undead Mob Boss
Conviction - "Respect the Church."
Ambition - To control 'crime families' in San Francisco
Desire - To be respected

XP Remaining - 0

Touchstone
Local Priest

Strength 4, Dexterity 2, Stamina 3
Charisma 2, Manipulation 2, Composure 1
Intelligence 2, Wits 3, Resolve 3

Health 6, Willpower 4, Humanity 6
Blood Potency 1

Skills
Athletics 2, Brawl 3 (Grappling), Drive 2, Firearms 3 (Colt 1911), Larceny 2, Melee 1, Stealth 1
Etiquette 1, Insight 1, Intimidation 3, Leadership 2, Persuasion 1, Streetwise, 2, Subterfuge 1
Awareness 1, Investigation 2, Technology 1

Disciplines
Dominate 1 (1: Compel)
Oblivion 3 (1: Shadow Cloak, 2: Arms of Ahriman, 3: Touch of Oblivion)
Potency 2 (1: Lethal Body, 2: Prowess)

Backgrounds - Haven 1 (Watchmen), Retainer 3 (Ghoul Assistant), Retainer 1 (P.A.)
Flaws - Dark Secret 1, Stigmata 1
Lore - Descendent of Montano (3: Abyssal Apprentice)

Scene Three - Know Your Enemy
You have been doing some subtle but comprehensive research on the powers that be within this Camarilla city.

The Prince and Her Entourage
Sara Anne Winder - Ventrue
Price of San Francisco
Sara Anne Winder - Ventrue: Prince of San Francisco
Sara is a battle-hardened general in the guise of a sweet and flirtatious young lady.

Prince Winder is as cute as a button. She pulls her long blonde hair back in a ponytail and her eyes, blue as ice caves, sparkle when she smiles. She dresses casually, but makes a point of wearing clothes that accent her lithe build.

In public settings, she comports herself in such a way that others cannot even imagine her behaving in a cruel or aggressive fashion. She is a smiling and gracious prince, and deals pleasantly even with those individuals you know she despises. Likewise, she can enthral a target and engage them in witty banter even while her most favoured assassin moves into place behind them. Though not malicious, neither is she above even the most extreme and perfidious tactics if it will win her a battle.

Prince Winder bases herself within The Transamerica Pyramid building in the financial district of San Francisco. The entire building is considered to be Elysium and it is here where she most often holds court.

Thomas and Francis knew that she was aware of the coterie, and as far as they knew had nothing against Anarchs in particular.

Suzanne Rochelle - Toreador: Seneschal
Suzanne retained the role of Seneschal after her lover Vannevar Thomas was forced from his role of Prince by politics and a failed war against the Anarchs of Los Angeles. Some have suspected that she has done so in order to pave the way for the return of Vannevar to the role of Prince. 

Suzanne Rochelle, Ventrue, Seneschal to Prince Winder

Other kindred point out rumours that a wedge was driven between her and the former Prince by her attraction to the notable L.A. Anarch, Michael Tomassio. Even more malicious tongues hint at an affair between the two. Though the source of these rumours is quite obviously the cities harpies, such is their influence that some of the most often repeated of these lies are beginning to be believed.

Whatever the truth, she has been a skilled advisor to Sara and it is she who mitigates some of her Princes more brutal excesses by finding diplomatic solutions before more destructive options are explored.

Miriam Caravaggio - Toreador
Sheriff of San Francisco
Miriam Caravaggio - Toreador: Sheriff of San Francisco
Miriam is an extraordinarily lithe and beautiful young woman, she dresses to accentuate her form while still allowing herself complete range of motion. She most frequently wears a black body suit with a brightly coloured (and easily removable) sarong, though will dress to blend into high society if accompanying Sara somewhere more formal.

What is clear is that she sees herself as superior to the majority of the kindred inhabitants of the city. For her, every movement is a dance, every interaction a performance. However her favourite dance is that of violence and it is she who carries out any formal sentences inflicted upon those who break the traditions and defy the directives of the cities Prince.

One of Michael Tomassio's coterie in Los Angeles had met her briefly and had warned Thomas and Francis that in his opinion she had the skills to enforce her Prince's will and would most likely enjoy herself while doing it.

Gustavo Morales - Gangrel: Scourge
Morales is a tall, thin, but still-attractive Hispanic vampire who typically wears cargo pants and sturdy shirts, though will also dress appropriately for the locations in which he works. His lean appearance belies his fighting skills, as evidenced by his tally of victims.

He is considered something of a loose cannon and generally does his own thing. Some kindred admire this independent quality, others clearly do not. Given his position and impressive body-count it’s in the best interests of those who do not approve of his actions to nonetheless stay out of the way.

There are some questions about whether his loyalty would be tested should Prince Winder and the Gangrel Primogen, Mirko Mirkonnen ever come into dispute. 

Gustavo Morales - Gangrel, Scourge of San Francisco

Fortunately for the Prince, with the Gangrel no longer part of the Camarilla, Mirko's position is tenuous enough as it is, without him making an enemy of the one who has allowed him to retain a position that many say should be made obsolete. Morales, for his part, enjoys his role to much to put it at risk.

Francis had learned that Guatavo is prejudiced against the Asian community, due to the death of his brother. Additionally, and despite their initial suspicions, they were now sure that he was not a descendent of Mirko Mirkonnen.

Anya Bloom - Toreador
Keeper of Elysium


Anya Bloom - Toreador: Keeper of Elysium, Harpy
Though there are many trendsetters amongst the kindred of San Francisco who consider themselves to fulfil the role of 'Harpy'. The undisputed leader amongst them is Anya Bloom.

In the wake of the second Inquisition, Anya has created a trend for less overstated and obvious displays in the area of outfits. The more expensive yet subtle the outfit, the greater the status that she attributes to the wearer. Her ownership and control of many of the leading fashion houses within San Francisco means that she can influence upcoming trends and pre-empt the most up to date fashions in clothing, jewellery and accessories.

She is invariably accompanied by a small group of toadying sycophants who hang on her every word.

It is fairly common knowledge that Anya doesn't like Suzanne Rochelle, and is actively spreading rumours of affairs and the like about her. Some believe that she sees the position of Seneschal as hers and is more than willing to do whatever she can to make the situation vacant.

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The Primogen
Mirko Mirkonen - Gangrel: Primogen
Mirkonen is an enormous muscular man with the same three-day beard growth he died with over a millennium ago. There’s a certain vulpine cunning in his eyes that makes others uncomfortable. He typically wears black steel-toed work boots, jeans and a black t-shirt. As something of a signature note, Mirkonen always wears a mangy fur vest that he made years ago when attending meetings. Out of battle, he has nothing to prove and is generally a relaxed and easy-going individual.

It is common knowledge that he is a dangerous combatant, and seemingly sees no reason to overstate the obvious by betraying any information to potential adversaries. Reflecting his respect for the living world, he attends to the natural order of things and tries not to feed heavily from any one area. 

Mirko Mirkonen - Gangrel Primogen of San Francisco

In warfare, he is a different person; every cruel urge manifests when he enters a berserker rage. He is neither flashy or fast, but you can both deliver and withstand enormous damage.

His considerable personal reputation as a warrior has been further enhanced by surviving running battles with the notorious Gangrel 'Fixer' Marius Walker on two separate occasions. Though he was defeated in a personal battle between the two, the fact that he still was granted certain allowances shows, in his version of events at least, that the confrontation was very close indeed.

Thomas and Francis have been informed by Michael Tomassio's Scourge Hope, and his 'Fixer' Daniel, that the likelihood of this fight being anything other than massively one-sided is highly unlikely. If Marius has granted Mirko any concessions then he must have had good reason to do so.

Both Mirko and Gustavo have their havens somewhere in the region of Golden Gate Park and this area is considered to be their exclusive feeding zone. All San Francisco parks are under their protection.

Luna Demian - House Tremere
Regent and Tremere Primogen
Luna Demian - House Tremere: Primogen
Luna means 'moon' and despite it's more common usage as a moniker in modern times, Luna Demian takes her name very seriously. 

She was middle aged when she received the Embrace and her hair had already turned silver. Furthermore, death has given her a smooth white alabaster like appearance, and she has a notable penchant for wearing white and silver lace dresses. Those elements, when combined, project an image that others find vivid and unforgettable, as befits a woman of her vast learning and achievement.

She has no time for social niceties. When possible, she avoids interacting with others in favour of conducting mystical research on whatever hapless enemies or interesting subjects she has acquired. When others interrupt her, she makes sure they know it, though she is chillingly polite when chastising them, the wise pay attention. A second interruption will likely prove fatal... eventually...

Demian has grown paranoid since her transfer to San Francisco. At any given time, she is likely to command between five and twelve well-armed and armoured decoy ghouls dressed in her exact likeness. She assigns these Demian's to her various haunts around the city or with her to protect/substitute for her at a moment’s notice. They stay linked by discreet two-way radios, not unlike those used by the presidential secret service. Given her dramatic appearance, Demian’s arrival with her entourage of pallid clones is an impressive spectacle, even in a city as accustomed to drama and artifice as San Francisco.

The Chantry is located in an area of San Francisco known as 'The Castro' and has considerable contact with Los Angeles's own equivalent in Downtown.

Kokopell Mana - Nosferatu
San Francisco Primogen
Kokopell 'The Kachin' Mana - Nosferatu: Primogen
Kokopell Mana, the Kachina, is a wizened old woman of Hopi extraction who was Embraced as Nosferatu. Nobody is sure of her age because of her clan deformations and the muck with which she covers herself, but she appears and claims to be downright ancient. In fact, she believes herself a fertility kachina of the same name.

Kokopell has a hunchback and uses “sewer muds” to paint her face. She looks like a Hopi kachina doll with wild straw-like hair and native clothing.

Fortunately, as a 'spirit,' she uses Obfuscate to travel unseen in the normal world. In practical terms this means that she can turn up pretty much anywhere she pleases, and sees no need to ask for permission to do so, that is if anyone is even aware that she was ever there. Many whisper that her enemies have a tendency to experience their final deaths under mysterious circumstances, never knowing that the creature that ended their unlives was even in the same room as them.

She sees this pantheon called the Camarilla as her family despite the fact that it argues and bickers, but they are still her family, and you will not abide any betrayal to them. Though most kindred are at least partially pragmatic, Kokopell is not. The traditions are the law, and she upholds them with religious conviction.

Vera Vignes - Ventrue
San Francisco Primogen
Vera Vignes - Ventrue: Primogen
Vera Vignes, formally of Los Angeles, controls the San Francisco docks and the majority of the logistics companies that are based within. Her Anarch roots have long been abandoned and she is a wholehearted supporter of the Camarilla, and perhaps always was.

These enterprises give her considerable power within the city and she has accumulated influence in both kindred and mortal circles. Any kindred who enters or leaves the city is likely to need either her help, or at the very least, her permission to do so. She is considered to be one of Prince Winder's closest allies and is known to donate generously to causes and organisations that the Prince deems important.

She is assisted by a handsome and muscular Ventrue called Henry Waters whose loyalty to his mistress is absolute. When necessary he enforces her will when diplomacy is insufficient and violence becomes necessary. Rumours of his destruction in Los Angeles were seemingly incorrect.

Though not considered to be an Elysium, the docks are however, Vera's feeding ground.

The pair had learned from their sponsors in Los Angeles that there was some doubt about whether this Henry Waters was the original Henry Waters as they had compelling reasons to believe that Henry had met his Final Death in L.A. two years ago. As far as they are concerned Henry Waters was destroyed, and whatever currently wears his face, is someone or something else.

Anarchs
The only notable Anarch operating within the city is Maximus, a very unusual Nosferatu. His flesh shows none of the overt signs of deformity that usually plague those of his clan. His grey flesh is pallid and pulled tightly over his bones and he smells of decomposition that aftershave and deodorant can merely reduce, not eliminate but in spite of these limitations he can still pass more freely in society than one of his clan can normally manage.

Chinatown, San Francisco at Night

He has a haven beneath Chinatown and is currently competing with the remnants of a independent group of kindred originally from Hong Kong who are, albeit nominally, supporters of the Camarilla.

The relationship between these Chinatown kindred and the Camarilla is somewhat tenuous given the problems San Francisco has had with previous 'eastern' Kindred inhabitants, but currently they are keeping to the Traditions and making all the right noises when it comes to loyalty to the cities Prince.

Others
Lilliana Swann - Gangrel
'The Oratory'
The Circulatory System, Pony Express and The Oratory all have representatives within the city but they are somewhat beyond your financial reach at the moment. Of these you know very little other than the names of their representatives.

Zander Whitehouse represents the interests of The Circulatory System and can be contacted via Patrick Hodge who will, if you are considered suitable, arrange a meeting with Zander. They offer all the expected services and have access to a variety of vessels with particular resonances or ancestries. What they don't have in 'stock' can be shipped in from other farms within a reasonable timeframe.

Douglas Gage, of the delivery service known as 'The Pony Express' can deliver anything to anywhere for the right price. You need not reveal what you are shipping, indeed Douglas guarantees discretion, but nonetheless the added security and precautions required by the activities of the Second Inquisition mean that prices for their services are at an all-time high.

Lilliana Swann is the first contact for anyone requiring the variety of services offered by Aegis and The Oratory. Lilliana is a surprisingly polite and well dressed Gangrel who fits the image of a so-called 'Boardroom Gangrel' almost perfectly. Though given her Clan's preference for a hierarchy based on physical prowess it is unlikely that she is lacking in that area.

Maximus believes that Sara Winder pays a considerable retainer to all three of these organisations to ensure that her own needs are prioritized. Though he has no actual evidence, it is not an unreasonable theory.

There is to be a meeting at one of the cities Elysium this very evening and you have been informed that it would be in your best interests to use this opportunity to introduce yourself. Though the invitation was cordial, you are well aware that this is not optional. Not if you wish to avoid a visit from Prince Sara Anne Winders Sheriff, Miriam Caravaggio, or a less formal but certainly as fatal introduction to her Scourge Gustavo Morales.

The rules of behaviour in Camarilla society are very different to those in an Anarch Barony. Let's hope you can make the transition without any unfortunate mistakes...

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Storytellers Conclusions
I sometimes like to do a round-up of how the session went in these features but if you couldn't give a shit what I think then feel free to skip this bit....

So we have the characters and all the associated stats, and an overview of who they are going to be dealing with. The next session will deal with their introduction to the Prince and the rest of San Francisco's kindred society.

Song Lyrics
Also, The quote in the header is from the following song on the off-chance any-one is interested


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Further Acknowledgements
Portions of the materials are the copyrights and trademarks of White Wolf Entertainment AB, and are used with permission. All rights reserved.

I've used pictures of real people to represent some of the characters and art for others so in no particular order Thomas Caldwell is Oscar Isaac, Francis Maranzano is a young Al Pacino, Sara Anne Winder is Saoirse Ronan, Suzanne Rochelle is Amelia Rose Blaire, Miriam Caravaggio is Sasha Luss, Gustavo Morales is Miguel Gomez, Anya Bloom is Zendaya, Mirko Mirkonen is Nathan Jones, Luna Demian is Andie MacDowell, Vera Vignes is Helen Mirren  and Lilliana Swann is Liv Tyler.

Everything else is from vampire related folders and searches and is as far as I know is all of the 'fair use' variety. If there's something that you feel should be attributed to some-one then feel free to let me know and I'll happily add an acknowledgement.

Friday 11 November 2022

V5 Chronicle - Faction Profile - The Anarch Council (Updated)

During the course of the various stories of this chronicle the coterie has and will meet many characters so I'm therefore creating several profile pages for different groups within my version of kindred Los Angeles to help them keep track. I'll also amend these profiles as new information comes to light.
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The Anarch Council of Los Angeles
Venture Tower - Downtown
Formed by necessity to organise the defence of the city against incursions by The Camarilla, the Sabbat, and the Unbound Ghoul gang known as the Young Bloods, The Anarch Council was considered such a useful tool that it is now a permanent fixture of kindred politics within The Anarch Free States.

Each of the thirteen recognised Baronies has a seat on the council. Any matter effecting the entire of Los Angeles is debated between these Barons and pseudo-Barons to enable the kindred of the city to stand united against these threats as a single, united entity.

The Council meets at the summit of Venture Tower, the highest building in Los Angeles, built by Sebastian LaCroix, former Prince of the city during a brief period where the Camarilla regained control. The irony of using this place as their headquarters is not lost on them. Each Baron has an 'office' somewhere on one of the three floors below the spacious meeting room, though many remain unused. The facility is now also used for smaller meetings between neighbouring baronies to discuss minor issues that may effect them. 

Each of the Barons areas within the tower are separated from one another and each has their own staircase or lift from it to the upper floor. This way those Barons who may be antagonistic to one another can avoid confrontations outside of the neutral ground of the meeting room.

The main meeting room has windows on all sides and gives the assembled Barons an impressive view of the city. The table at it's centre is a large oaken affair with twenty-six seats spaced evenly around it. The thirteen most elaborate are for the Barons, while the less ostentatious seat to the right of each is for their most trusted advisor. The outer area has additional seating for bodyguards and invited guests.

This part of the building has been designed by Marius's Malkavian architect Dillan Fitzgerald and security is taken care of by Mercury Security Solutions, a security consultancy and arms supplier ran by a ghoul of Marius's known as Mercurio. Despite being in the middle of Downtown, the area is considered neutral ground, being part of The Barony of the Angels' and Marius's sweepers allow free passage to and from the facility, though still tend to monitor any 'detours' that are taken on the way.

The Arbiter
As you'd expect with thirteen kindred of power and influence within one room, sometimes things get heated and a strong hand is necessary to keep order. The Arbiter is an elected position, currently held by Michael Tomassio, Baron of the North East. Michael has a proven record with sorting disputes between various kindred domains and the majority of the council approves of his position. Those that don't are currently in the minority, so his position is fairly secure. For now.

Originally, and in order to prevent abuses of power, The Arbiter was only permitted to vote when the council was deadlocked. This rule has subsequently been abandoned in light of the current Arbiter's many services to the Anarch Free States. 

The Council has also authorised him to appoint an investigator to enable him to keep track of any issues which effect the city as a whole. Currently that position is held by Dr Daniel Matthews. Though officially his title would be census-taker, most of the cities Anarchs instead use the term 'Sherlock'.

Michael Tomassio: Baron of The North East
Domain - Chasse 3, Lien 3, Portillon 4
Aliases and Nicknames
'The Baron of L.A.'
Clan
8th Generation Toreador
Haven(s)
Haven 3 (Hillside Mansion, The Oaks: Library 1, Location, Luxury, Postern 1, Security System 5, Warding 1), Haven 3 (Pasadena Mansion: Luxury, Panic Room, Security 3, Watchmen 1), Haven 2 (Hollywood Home: Luxury, Postern, Security System 2)
Backgrounds 
Contact 3 (Don Alonzo), Contact 1 (Club Zombie Doorman), Contact 1 (Heather Taylor, Ghoul of Marius), Contact 1 (YouTube Influencer), Fame 1, Influence 3 (Pasadena), Influence 2 (Glendale), Mask 1, Mawla 2 (Damsel), Mawla 2 (Mariel St. John), Mawla 2 (Priss), Mawla 2 (Velvet Velour), Mawla 1 (Isaac Abrams), Mawla 1 (Velme), Resources 4, Retainer 3 (Dakota Kassidy - Ghoul), Retainer 3 (Franklin Atkins - Ghoul), Retainer 2 (Lisa Irving - Ghoul), Retainer 1 (Shawna Jones, Ghoul), Status 5 (Anarch), Status 2 (Camarilla), Status 3 (Toreador).
Merits
Stunning 4
Flaws
Enemy 1 (Spurned Lover), Folkloric Block 1 (Uninvited).
Lore
Carmelita Neillson (5: Ancestor's Tomb), Descendent of Helena (1: Skin-Deep, 2: Real Talent, 3: Embrace the Stereotype, 4: Divine Purity, 5: Succubus Club Franchise), Fiorenza Savona (1: On Fiorenza's List), High Clan (1: Peacock), Salvador Garcia (1: A Way With Words), Trinity (1: Constantinople, 2: Antonius’ Architecture)

The Warleader
In the event of conflicts that encompass the entire of the Anarch Free States, it is the task of the war leader to organise the defence of Los Angeles. Originally two kindred jointly held this role but it was decided that a single voice was more efficient, though internal politics also played a part in the decision. Baron Marius Walker has therefore voluntarily stepped down and left the job in the hands of Baron Fortier of West L.A.

Politically this is a significant victory for Louis Fortier who has been a rival of Marius's for some time.

Baron Louis Fortier: Baron of West Los Angeles
Domain - Chasse 6, Lien 6, Portillon 6
Aliases and Nicknames
Monsieur Fortier
Clan
8th Generation Ventrue
Haven
Haven 4 (Beverly Hills Mansion: Armoury, Cell 6, Hidden Armoury, Library 5+, Location, Luxury, Postern 3, Security System 6, Surgery, Watchmen 10, Warding 5+)
Backgrounds
Allies 1-7 (Multiple), Contacts 1-5 (Multiple), Herd 5 (Catherine DuBois's Blood Dolls), Influence 5 (West L.A.), Influence 5 (Los Angeles), Resources 5+, Retainers 1-5 (A Veritable Army of Ghouls), Status 5 (Anarchs), Status 5 (Los Angeles)
Merits
Linguistics 3 (French, Italian, Spanish)
Flaws
Ventrue Feeding Restriction (???)
Derangements
None
Lore
Fiorenza Savona (3: Friendly Benefits), High Clan (1: Peacock, 5: Blessed, Not Cursed), Salvador Garcia (1: A Way With Words, 2: Old School,  4: The War of Ideas, 5: Rise Up), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor, 2: Active Participant, 3: Trophy Kill, 4: No Vampire’s Land)

Louis has been an active Anarch since Los Angeles's kindred overthrew the then Prince, Don Sebastian. He fought at their side during the revolt and in gratitude for his assistance the Anarchs have left him to rule West Los Angeles as he pleases. 

Louis is the quintessential nobleman, protective of his vassals and gracious to his enemies. His first concern is protecting his domain, and then protecting the interests of the Free States. He is one of the few vampires in the Free States who has any interest in the economic well being of his barony, and under his very tight control the Westside has prospered far better than anywhere else in the Los Angeles area. On the rare occasions that the Free States goes to war, Louis is the 'go-to' as Warleader. With Marius relinquishing his role as joint-warleader, Louis is now free to deploy the forces of The Anarch Free States without consulting with any other. It does however seem likely that Marius will still take control of those kindred that patrol the borders and gather information, though it is Louis that will make the tactical decisions that guide it's combined forces. 

An army of ghouls and innate tactical brilliance combined with near limitless money, power and influence have made Baron Fortier an extremely bad choice for an enemy. He and Marius Walker, Baron of Downtown, have a highly contentious relationship and whether they are currently allies or enemies is best determined by tossing a coin.

His greatest ally is Isaac Abrams, Baron of Hollywood. When united in purpose there is little that this pair cannot accomplish.

More detail about Louis Fortier's Barony and followers can be found HERE

The Anarch Council
Ten of the remaining eleven seats are taken by the Barons of the other ten Baronies of Los Angeles. The eleventh is held by whichever Nosferatu currently controls The Warrens. Though beneath the city is not actually considered a barony, it's current leader 'Gorgeous' Gary Golden has nonetheless taken the title of Baron and is, at least publicly, given the same respect as the other council members. 

The twelve baronies currently recognised by the council are Anaheim, Burbank, Downtown, El Hermandad (The Brotherhood), Hollywood, La Hermandad (The Sisterhood), North East L.A., Santa Monica, The Liberated, The South Coast, West L.A. and The Wilds, with 'The Warrens' making it thirteen. 

The Baron-less domains are represented by whichever Baron they have pledged their loyalty to. In general this means that the interests of the Brujah Idealists are under the overview of Michael Tomassio and the small Gangrel domains outside of the city are considered to be under the protection of Marius Walker, Baron of Downtown. Though the Barony of the Angels is theoretically neutral ground, for all practical purposes it is controlled and protected by Marius Walker, leading many to consider the distinction between the two areas to be meaningless.

Anaheim: Baron Allison Maller
Domain - Chasse 5, Lien 4, Portillon 4
Aliases and Nicknames
None
Clan
10th Generation Brujah
Haven
Haven 3 (Industrial Warehouse: Armoury, Location, Luxury, Postern 3, Security System 5, Surgery, Watchmen 3)
Backgrounds 
Herd 3, Influence 5 (Anaheim), Influence 2 (The Liberated), Mawla 5 (Salvador Garcia), Mawla 3 (Gloria Martinez), Resources 5, Status 4 (Anarch), Status 3 (Brujah).
Merits
None
Flaws
None
Lore
Kindred Iconography (1: Iconographer, 2: The Writing on the Wall), Salvador Garcia (1: A Way With Words, 2: Old School), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor)

The former Baron of Anaheim had recently lost several retainers in a raid on Long Beach, and so was vulnerable. Allison attacked, in one night slaughtering the Baron and most of his remaining gang, only to discover that Tom Weaver and his boys were moving in at the same time.

With some assistance from new allies, Allison managed to defeat both Tom Weaver and his sponsor 'Amethyst' the then Baron of Santa Ana and now controls the territory unopposed.

She currently has no specific enemies amongst the other Barons though in theory shares the enemies of her sire Salvador Garcia.

Her greatest ally is currently Gloria Martinez, Baron of El Hermandad due to both of them being childer of the legendary Anarch, Salvador Garcia. She is also highly regarded by the duskborn and Caitiff of 'The Liberated' due to her support of their independence and is one of the few Barons they actually trust.

'Brotherhood, The': Baron Salvador Garcia
Domain - Chasse 5, Lien 2, Portillon 2
Aliases and Nicknames
None
Clan
9th Generation Brujah
Haven(s)
Hank Boyd's former Ranch in Commerce (Haven 3: Hidden Armoury 5, Library 3, Location, Luxury, Postern 3: Secret Tunnels, Security System 5, Watchmen 5), Various other 'boltholes'
Backgrounds 
Allies 1-5 (Multiple), Ally 4 (Allison Maller, Baron of Anaheim), Ally 4 (Gloria Martinez, Baron of La Hermandad), Contacts 1-5 (Multiple), Fame 5 (Kindred), Influence 4 (The Anarch Free States), Influence 3 (Other Anarch Domains),  Resources 4 ('Donations' from those he's assisted), Status 5 (Anarch), Status 5 (Brujah),
Merits
Linguistics 2
Flaws
Enemy 3 (The Camarilla)
Derangements
None
Lore
Agata Starek (3: A Favour Owed), Anarch Revolt (1: Critical Ancestor, 2: Speak the Words, 3: Enemy of the Establishment, 5: Reignite the Revolt), Theo Bell (2: True Anarch, 3: Contact Information, 4: Bell's Circle), Ruins of Carthage (1: Clan Historian), Salvador Garcia (1: A Way With Words, 2: Old School, 3: Enemy of the State, 5: Rise Up)Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor, 2: Active Participant, 3: Trophy Kill, 4: No Vampire’s Land)

Along with Jeremy MacNeil and other notable Anarchs of the time, he plotted the Second Anarch Revolt. When the revolt finally came to fruition, García led a party on Prince Don Sebastian Juan Dominguez's home on the night of the revolt. It is claimed that García was able to kill the Prince in one-on-one combat, and this became a rallying tale for the Anarchs, as García killed a vampire three generations below him. The truth is somewhat different 

After the revolt, García authored the Status Perfectus, and since then, the Anarch has travelled abroad helping various revolutionary groups in their struggles. During his travels, he witnessed the inefficiency and disorder of the Anarchs and came to believe that they were becoming just another bunch of thugs. His frustrations were also increased as he was also hindered by Jeremy MacNeil from challenging Mohammed Al-Muthlim and the Crypt's Sons, who Garcia, correctly as it happened, believed to be a Sabbat pack that were trying to infiltrate the Free States.

He has now decided to return to the Anarch Free States, drawn by the news of the forming of a council of Anarch Barons and their charismatic and idealistic Arbiter and has taken the recently vacated domain of The Crypts Sons as his own.

His greatest allies within the Free States are his three childer Valeria, Gloria Martinez and Allison Maller, the latter two of which are Barons in their own right. Valeria is an Iconoclast of Italian origin, and a prominent figure of the Anarch Movement in Southern Europe and is likely to be a significant boon to her sire in recruiting new Anarch to join him.

His rivals within the city include Barons Louis Fortier, Harvey Caplan, Amara Martins and former Baron 'Priss' of 'The Shades' within the Barony of the Angels, as all of these encroached on the Crypts Sons territory before Garcia claimed it. Only careful diplomacy by the Arbiter Michael Tomassio has so far prevented this situation escalating into a full scale war.

Burbank: Baron Karen Anatos
Domain - Chasse 5, Lien 2, Portillon 2
Aliases and Nicknames
Lily Thorne, Ophelia Vine, Midnight Queen, Mistress Black, Rose Thorne, The fifth 'Most Wanted'.
Clan
6th Generation Gangrel
Haven
Haven 3 (Burbank Mansion: Location, Luxury, Security System 2, Watchmen 1)
Backgrounds 
Fame 3, Herd 5 (Groupies and Fans), Influence 5 (Burbank), Mask 2, Mawla 3 (Marius Walker), Mawla 3 (Isaac Abrams), Mawla 1 (Michael Tomassio), Resources 4, Retainer 3 (Karl Williams, Ghoul), Retainer 2 (Multiple: Bodyguards), Status 2 (Anarch)
Merits
Beautiful 2
Flaws
Folkloric Block (Garlic), Infamy 5 (Anathema)
Derangements
None
Lore
None

Karen Anatos took over the barony of Burbank after the mysterious disappearance of 'Bela', it's previous ruler, but had almost no knowledge of kindred politics whatsoever. Meetings with several other Barons including Isaac Abrams, Michael Tomassio and Marius Walker have given her a greater awareness of what she is and her place within the city. Her position within the city is somewhat complicated by the fact that she also has a place on the 'Red List' and is considered one of the thirteen most wanted kindred by the Camarilla sect. So far she has been protected from destruction by the intricacies of Camarilla politics and her status as an Anarch. Karen herself is blissfully unaware of all of this and simply enjoys her status as both Baron and media star.

Karen's enemies are all outside of Anarch circles, Within Los Angeles her only real rival is Isaac Abrams, but this is in the area of their competing legitimate businesses rather than a personal enmity and this enmity has faded considerably now they are actually cooperating on a number of business ventures.

Though she is willing to take advice from other Barons, she has no real allies amongst them as such. The Waelkyrige, or simply Valkyries, are a group of female Gangrel that are currently the guests of Karen and would certainly act to defend her and her domain should it be necessary.

Downtown: Baron Marius Walker
Domain - Chasse 6, Lien 5, Portillon 6
Aliases and Nicknames
Malaki Walker, Marcus Walker, Martin Walker.
'Father', 'The Fixer', 'The Wolf Spider'.
Clan
4th Generation Gangrel (Claims to be 8th or sometimes 9th)
Haven
Hallowbrook Apartments (Haven 5: Armoury, Cell 4, Hidden Armoury 5+, Occult Library 5+, Laboratory 1, Luxury 1, Postern 4, Resources 5, Security System 5+, Surgery 1, Watchmen 5+)
Backgrounds 
Allies 1-5 (Multiple), Ally 3 (Jan, Death-From-Below, Bone Gnawer), Contacts 1-5 (Multiple), Fame 3 (Kindred Only), Influence 5 (Downtown), Influence 5 (Los Angeles), Herd 2 (Kindred), Herd 5 (Kine), Mawla 4 (Jeanette Voerman: Anarch, Malkavian), Mawla 3 (Therese Voerman), Mawla 3 (Catherine DuBois), Resources 6 (Aegis Acquisitions), Retainers (Alice 5, Clara 4, Daedra 4, Heather 2, Leanna 5, Melissa 3, Mercurio, Roxanne 3, Sylvia 4, Venus 3, Victoria 5, Yukio 5), Status 4 (5 with Gangrel)
Merits
Bloodhound, Iron Gullet, Linguist 4, Unbondable, Unholy Will 4
Flaws
Beacon of Profanity, Black Vein Permanency (The evidence of diablerie never leaves Marius's aura), Dark Secret (Multiple...), Infamy 4 (Known Diablerist), Infamy 3 (Unpredictable)
Lore
Carmelita Neillson (3: Neillson Library), Descendent of Xavier (1: Martyred Ancestor, 2 Where the Bodies Are Buried, 4: Monstrous Bat, 5: Experienced the Antediluvian), Fiorenza Savona (1: On Fiorenza's List, 2: Breakfast with Fiorenza, 3: Friendly Benefits), FIRSTLIGHT (1: Evasion Tactics, 2: Branch Office, 3: What Do They Know, 4: No Records Found, 5: Friends On The Inside), Jeanette/Therese Voerman (1: Asylum Membership, 2: Performing Monkey, 3: Jeanette’s Favorite, 4: Therese’s Favorite), Kindred Duelling (1: Honourable Combatant, 2: Stake Fighter, 4: Fire Eater, 5: Trials of Death), Lupine Expert (1: Huntsman, 2: Tactician, 3: Soldier, 4: Trophy, 5: Ambassador), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor, 2: Active Participant, 3: Trophy Kill, 4: No Vampire’s Land), The Anubi (1: Argent Fury, 2: What Big Eyes You Have, 3: Strange Bedfellows), The Bahari (1: Dangerous Reputation, 2: Ritual Scarification, 3: Sacrifice the Children, 4: The Womb’s Blood, 5: First-Cursed), The Book of Nod (3: Scholar).
Derangement's 
Claustrophobia (Suspected), Diablerie Addiction (Suspected), Megalomania (Suspected), Paranoia (Mild)

Marius Walker expanded his domain by absorbing what was once the Barony of the Angels into it and has extended the limits of his borders, by various means, several times since. In recent years he reversed this decision and reformed the Barony of the Angels and those gangs within have now forged their own domains. However for all practical purposes he still controls what goes on within this area so the change is really only cosmetic.

He is currently spending a great deal of time outside of the city and so in his absence his seat, and vote, is being represented by a rotating selection of notable leaders from within the Barony of the Angels.

Marius's allies and enemies amongst the other Barons vary wildly based on which of them he has 'Fixed' problems for and which others have suffered as a result of his machinations.

Marius Walker is covered in more detail HERE

Hollywood: Baron Isaac Abrams
Domain - Chasse 7, Lien 6, Portillon 6
Aliases and Nicknames
None
Clan
6th Generation Toreador
Haven(s)
Haven 3 (Abrams Golden Age Jewelry: Location, Luxury, Security System 3, Watchmen 1), Haven 3 (Hollywood Mansion: Library 5, Location, Luxury, Postern 1, Security System 5, Watchmen 4, Warding 5)
Backgrounds 
Ally 4 (Dawn Cavanaugh, The Ministry), Ally 4 
(Sofia Rivera, Toreador),  Ally 4 (Velvet Velour, Toreador), Contacts 1-5 (Multiple), Fame 5 (Kindred), Fame 3 (Mortals), Herd 5 (Groupies, Fans and Wannabee Actors, Writers, Directors, etc.), Influence 5+ (Hollywood), Influence 4 (Los Angeles), Mask 2, Resources 6 (Hollywood and his Media Empire), Retainer 3 (Romero, Ghoul), Status 5 (Anarch), Status 4 (Toreador), Status 3 (Camarilla)
Merits
Linguistics 3 (French, German, Greek and Italian)
Flaws
Isaac's flaws are currently nullified by the vampiric artefact 'Martinelli's Ring of Clear Thought'
Derangements
Isaac's derangements are currently nullified by the vampiric artefact 'Martinelli's Ring of Clear Thought'
Lore
Annabelle (3: With Thanks to Our Donors), Carmelita Neillson (1: The Art of the Story), High Clan (1: Peacock, 4: Embraced to Rule, 5: Blessed, Not Cursed), Salvador Garcia (1: A Way With Words), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor, 2: Active Participant, 4: No Vampire’s Land), The Circulatory System (1: Tap Into the System), The First Inquisition (1: Mistakes of the Past, 2: Names of the Guilty), The Labyrinth (1: Tunnel Access), The Pony Express (1: Access to the Network, 4: World Tour), Victoria Ash (1: Ashen Kiss)

Isaac has worked Hollywood and its stars for decades and has had major involvement in the American film industry as a producer/financier, even after his Embrace, and has been Baron of Hollywood for decades. Up until recently Isaac was considered to have become an unfocussed kindred, barely hanging on to power and relevance. His mental acuity stabilised and enhanced by a recently acquired vampiric artefact, he is now in complete control of himself and his domain is once again united under his rule.

Isaac has no rivals amongst the kindred of Los Angeles. Even before his new proactive attitude he was far too powerful to oppose directly. Now he is even more dangerous to have as an enemy, but deals fairly with those who treat him with respect. He has recently started cooperating, rather than competing, with Baron Karen Anatos and they have joined forces in order to consolidate control over the media industries within Los Angeles and beyond.

His main ally is his neighbour Baron Fortier in West L.A. Though he also seems to have a mentor like relationship with Michael Tomassio, Baron of the North East. He shares several business ventures with Marius Walker though to call them allies would be a stretch.

'Liberated, The': Baron Amara Martins
Domain - Chasse 3, Lien 4, Portillon 3
Aliases and Nicknames
'Jenna 2'
Clan
15th Generation Duskborn
Haven
Haven 2 (Shopping Mall Sub-Basement: Security System 2, Watchmen 1)
Backgrounds 
Ally 4 (Leanna, Duskborn Alchemist), Influence 2 (Local Businesses), Mawla 3 (Allison Maller), Resources 1, Status 2 (Anarch)
Thin-Blood Merits
Catenating Blood, Discipline Affinity (Presence), Vampiric Resilience
Thin-Blood Flaws
Baby Teeth, Bestial Temper, Clan Curse (Toreador)
Derangements
None Known
Lore
None

Though it was a long time coming, the Duskborn and Caitiff of Los Angeles now have a domain to call their own. Originally granted to them by Gloria Martinez as feeding ground, their support of the Free States in several conflicts against outside enemies, gained them the gratitude of many of the cities kindred. Their ultimate reward being a seat on the council and the ability to create their own destiny.

Originally 'The Liberated' chose their leader by democratic election and though, in theory, this is still the case, Amara has been their leader since Prince Vannevar's ill-fated attempt to take over the city. The majority of the duskborn attribute their elevation to Amara and without rivals to her position a new election has been deemed unnecessary.

Meanwhile, the Duskborn and Caitiff of 'The Liberated' have severed many of their ties to Gloria Martinez and Allison Maller stating their desire to 'forge their own path'. Some within now talk of Amara Martins as the spiritual successor to Jenna Cross who once led the duskborn and Caitiff of L.A. in an attempt to make Los Angeles their own in what is now referred to as 'The Cross Rebellion'. Amara herself is careful to publicly distance herself from such comparisons, behind closed doors it is rumoured that the reality is much different.

The 'Cross Rebellion' story began HERE for those of you who are interested.

This has had the unfortunate effect of making the other Baronies reluctant to accept Duskborn or Caitiff residents in case they are 'spies' for Amara and the Liberated, which has in turn increased The Liberated's desire for complete independence as their membership increases.

Though distrusted by many, Amara's only real enemies are those of Salvador Garcia's kindred who are attempting to regain the territory taken by 'The Liberated' that they say is rightfully theirs.

Santa Monica: Baron Therese Voerman
Domain - Chasse 4, Lien 5, Portillon 7
Aliases and Nicknames
'Queen Bitch' (Vandal Cleaver), 'Queen Victoria', 'The Virgin Queen of the Night' (Jeanette Voerman)
Clan
6th Generation Malkavian
Haven(s)
Haven 3 (The Asylum: Dayroom 3, Location, Luxury, Postern 3, Security System 3, Watchmen 3)
Backgrounds
Allies 1-5 (Multiple), Contacts 1-5 (Multiple), Influence 5 (Santa Monica), Herd 5 (Asylum Customers, Former Lovers of Jeanette) Influence 1-5 (Various domains containing 'The asylum' franchises), Mask 3, Resources 5 ('The Asylum' Franchise), Retainer 3 (Vandal Cleaver, Ghoul), Retainers 1-5 (Multiple), Status 5 (Los Angeles), Status 3 (Global)
Merits
Beautiful 2, Cold Dead Hunger 3
Flaws
None
Derangements
Dissociative Identity Disorder (Jeanette Voerman), Megalomania (Severe)
Lore
Fiorenza Savona (2: Breakfast with Savona, 5: Government Motion), High Clan (1: Peacock, 4: Embraced to Rule), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor, 2: Active Participant, 4: No Vampire’s Land), The Circulatory System (1: Tap Into the System, 3: Farm Upstate), The Cobweb (2: Shared Condition, 3: Across the Web, 4: Pluck the Strands, 5: Malkav's Will), The Pony Express (1: Access to the Network, 5: Passenger Service), Victoria Ash (2: Vermilion Invitation)

Therese rose to power in Los Angeles as both the Baron of Santa Monica and as a highly successful businesswoman. Her base of operations and her primary business source was the Asylum, a nightclub in her barony where she ran the finances and business side of things, while her sister Jeanette lured in patrons for the club. With the profits from her club she gradually took over businesses across Santa Monica and gained inroads into dozens of other businesses across the city. Now 'The Asylum' has gone international, Therese has acquired boons and favours from kindred across the globe and has power and influence far beyond the borders of her relatively small Barony.

Therese has no significant rivals amongst the other Barons despite her Camarilla leanings. Ironically her greatest rival is also her greatest ally, namely her 'sister' Jeanette.

Recent events do however seem to indicate a growing relationship between Therese Voerman and Marius Walker including several joint logistics operations centred on the Port of Hueneme.

More detail about Therese Voerman's Barony and followers can be found HERE.

'Sisterhood, The': Baron Gloria Martinez
Domain - Chasse 5, Lien 4, Portillon 3
Aliases and Nicknames
None
Clan
10th Generation Brujah
Haven(s)
Unknown, Previous Haven destroyed by The Young Bloods
Backgrounds 
Contacts 1-4 (Multiple), Influence 4 (Whittier), Mawla 5 (Salvador Garcia), Mawla 3 (Allison Maller), Resources 4, Status 4 (La Hermandad), Status 3 (Anarch), Status 1 (Brujah).
Merits
Stunning 4
Flaws
Adversary 2 (Jesus Ramirez)
Lore
Kindred Iconography (2: The Writing on the Wall), Salvador Garcia (1: A Way With Words, 2: Old School, 5: Rise Up), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor)

After Salvador Garcia agreed to initiate her into the unlife, Gloria rapidly became accustomed to her new powers, and Salvador showed her how to use them to protect 
and defend her community rather than escape from it. With his help, she managed to gain control of the Kindred gang that had ruled Whittier for several years. Victor Girard manoeuvred himself into the position of de-facto Baron of El Hermandad and attempted to use Gloria as a figurehead but ultimately his plan failed and Gloria Martinez gained control of El Hermandad as well as Whittier.

The full story of Gloria's elevation within El Hermandad begins HERE.

Here main rivals within Los Angeles are the Crypts Sons, though she inherited these when she gained leadership of El Hermandad and has no real personal grudge against them or their Baron Hank. Unfortunately for her, many members of El Hermandad have grudges against The Crypts Sons and so, as their leader, she is obligated to consider them in the same light. If she wishes to remain their leader that is. With The Crypts Sons eradication, these considerations have now become irrelevant.

Her greatest ally is currently Allison Maller, Baron of Anaheim, due to both of them being childer of the legendary Anarch, Salvador Garcia. She is also respected, but not particularly liked, by the duskborn and Caitiff of 'The Liberated' due to her granting them the domain that they currently call home and which subsequently became a barony in it's own right.

She is currently somewhat unpopular with many of the cities Brujah due to the revelation that she was warned about Sir Matthew Lubbock's attempted takeover of the city but contributed nothing to the effort to oppose him. 

With the return to Los Angeles of her sire, Salvador Garcia, the name El Hermandad has been reclaimed by him and his own kindred followers. Gloria now refers to her own domain as The Sisterhood, in spite of the majority of it's denizens being male. It is widely believed that she was expecting her 'Sister of the Blood' Allison Maller to become closer to her once their sire returned, hence the name change, yet this is yet to occur.

She also has a long-term rivalry with her sires most loyal advisor and friend Jesus Ramirez, which is likely to complicate the relationship between Gloria and Garcia.

South Coast, The: Baron Harvey Caplan
Domain - Chasse 4, Lien 4, Portillon 5
Aliases and Nicknames
None
Clan
10th Generation Ventrue
Haven(s)
Haven 3 (Dockyard Office Complex: Dayroom 1, Hidden Armoury 3, Location, Luxury, Postern 3, Security System 1, Watchmen 4)
Backgrounds
Contacts 1-4 (Useful Port Officials), Influence 5 (South Coast Docks), Influence 3 (The South Coast), Mask 1, Resources 4, Status 4 (The South Coast), Status 2 (Las Vegas), Status 2 (Los Angeles), Status 1 (Chicago), Status 1 (San Francisco)
Merits
None
Flaws
Dark Secret (Ally: Vera Vignes), Ventrue Feeding Restriction (???)
Derangements
None
Lore
Capone Gang (1: A Favour for a Favour), High Clan (2: Sway the Low), Pure Ventrue Lineage (4: The Line of Antonius), The Labyrinth (1: Tunnel Access), The Pony Express (1: Access to the Network)

After moving to Los Angeles from Las Vegas, Harvey rapidly established himself in the docks controlled by the then Baron, Steve Booth. Steve left Harvey to run the docks in exchange for a moderate percentage as Steve Booth was a leader more by natural charisma than strong leadership and had little real interest in his own Baronies actual exploitable resources. When Baron Booth was destroyed by a Camarilla ambush, Harvey was the only kindred within the domain with anything approaching his own organisation and, with the approval of the Anarch Council, became Baron.

Harvey has earned a certain level of respect from the other Baron's due to the efficient manner in which he runs the docks and his reasonable rates when providing it's services to other kindred. There are however some concerns about his near monopoly in this industry and other kindred Barons are looking enviously in his direction.

After exiling The Water Rats Pack, and the relocation of Vinicius's 'Hunters' to the Port of Hueneme, his Barony is sparsely populated for such a vast domain and subsequently those who previously only imagined ousting Harvey, may now be giving the matter more serious consideration.

Harvey and Marius Walker are no longer on the best of terms after the Baron of Downtown moved the majority of his operations to the Port of Hueneme and took some of the South Coast's most potent defenders with him.

Warrens, The: Baron Gary Golden
Domain - Chasse 5, Lien 6, Portillon 2
Aliases and Nicknames
'Gorgeous' Gary Golden
Clan
10th Generation Nosferatu (This has been called into dispute several times. Possibly he is more powerful than he claims)
Haven
Haven 5 (The Hollywood Warrens: Cell 5+, Creepy, Laboratory 1, Library 5+, Postern 5+, Security System 5+, Watchmen 5+)
Backgrounds
Contacts 1-5 (Far Too Many to List), Fame 1 (As 'Gorgeous' Gary Golden), Herd 2 (Underground Vermin), Influence 3 (Via Mortal Agents), Resources 2, Status 5 (Nosferatu), Status 5 (The Warrens), Status 3 (Los Angeles)
Merits
Linguistics 1 (Spanish)
Flaws
Disliked 1 (Camarilla), Farmer 2, Repulsive 2
Derangements
None
Lore
Ambrus Maropis (2: Clandestine Information, 4: Back Door Panopticon), Blood Plagued (1: Detection), Low Clan (1: Thick Hide, 3: Uncanny Kinship, 4: Trade Among Equals), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor, 4: No Vampire’s Land), The Labyrinth (1: Tunnel Access, 2: Boxcar Blues, 3: Church, 4: Lydia's Lair, 5: Hideout), Wauneka (3: Insider Connections)

Though Gary once eschewed the title of Baron as he once did that of Primogen, he is, for all intents and purposes, Baron of The Warrens and therefore decided that he might as well have the title anyway. Though based below Hollywood he also has significant influence beneath the rest of the city. In return for Baron Isaac Abram's tolerance of his presence beneath his domain he is required to do the occasional 'favour' for Isaac, 'no questions asked'. Though such requests are rare, Gary deals with them promptly, in order to maintain the status quo.

Gary's jovial and somewhat self-deprecating nature makes him very difficult to dislike, even when he's screwing you over. As a result he has no enemies above ground. Below the surface it's a somewhat different matter.

Gary shares the area beneath Los Angeles with two werewolf tribes, who he conspicuously leaves to their own devices, and 'The Swarm'. Tilly Kelly, the Mistress of the swarm's, childer, ghouls and blood-bound slaves have their own underground kingdom below Downtown and occasionally wander outside their agreed upon borders, which has created some tension and the occasional skirmish between the two factions.

In recent months, Gary has expanded The Warrens outwards considerably and has therefore found it necessary to make more firm arrangements about borders with the Swarm. Currently this agreement is holding well, much to the surprise of the rest of Los Angeles.

Despite the Nosferatu's reputation for controlling the sewers beneath a city, Los Angeles network is vast, deep and nearly impossible to control in it's entirety and as such there are many creatures within that are unlikely to willingly accept Gary's rule. There are also several areas where the area known as The Labyrinth blends with the cities Warrens in a manner which seems to ignore several fundamental laws of geometry. These access points are carefully monitored but not all are known.

More detail about Gary Golden's domain and followers can be found HERE.

Wilds, The: Baron Myranda Marie
Domain - Chasse 4, Lien 3, Portillon 6
Aliases and Nicknames
None
Clan
8th Generation Gangrel
Haven
Haven 3 (Hilltop Estate, Ridgemoor: Location, Luxury, Security System 3)
Backgrounds
Influence 3 (The Wilds), Mawla 5 (Marius Walker), Resources 4, Status 5 (The Wilds), Status 3 (Gangrel), Status 3 (Los Angeles)
Merits
Beautiful 2
Flaws
Infamy 3 (Obsessively Territorial)
Derangements
None
Lore
Descendent of Xavier (1: Martyred Ancestor, 2: Where the Bodies Are Buried, 4: Monstrous Bat), Goblin Roads (Los Angeles/San/Jose/San Francisco - 1: Night Rider), (Low Clan (4: Trade Among Equals), Lupine Expert (1: Huntsman, 2: Tactician,), The Bahari (1: Dangerous Reputation, 2: Ritual Scarification, 4: The Womb’s Blood), The Circulatory System (1: Tap Into the System, 3: Farm Upstate)

The pack of Gangrel who claim the area known as The Wilds as their territory have controlled the area for two decades now though some have hunted within for far longer. The area was notorious for claiming the unlives of any kindred who attempted to keep control of it until this particular pack claimed it as their own and have seemingly had no issues surviving within.

Since then they have kept to themselves though defend the borders of their territory with little mercy. They have a standard policy of issuing a single warning, followed by a swift and permanent solution to the transgression should their warnings be ignored. The Wilds Pack have expanded their domain to encompass the San Gabriel Mountains and have declared it as their own. Given that the area has little in the way of resources, no-one has disputed the claim and several Gangrel Packs have been given large tracts as feeding grounds on the condition that they also defend them. This also effectively makes them responsible for protecting Los Angeles from incursions from the Camarilla who now control San Jose.

The Pack's experiences during the expulsion of Lubbock's forces from their territory has bought a return to their militant attitude about respecting their borders and they have become, if such a thing was possible, even more aggressive in their dealings with outsiders. Myranda has informed all the Free States Anarchs, via their Barons, that they have been granted free passage through the expanded domain of the San Gabriel Mountains as long as they stick to the main roads and paths and avoid careless feeding. However, should they stray from the paths then they are to be considered intruders and will be dealt with accordingly.

She has neither confirmed, nor denied, her packs involvement in a number of disappearances involving kindred travelling to and from San Jose. Invariably her response is something along the lines of "...If they stayed on the path they would have been safe..."

One of the downsides to being one of Marius's brood is that one tends to inherit his enemies too. Therefore Myranda's greatest rivals tend to mirror those of her grandesire.

Myranda's greatest ally is Marius Walker, her grandesire, and Baron of Downtown. He rarely fails to indulge her whims, perhaps out of guilt for allowing her to believe that he was responsible for destruction of her sire, his own childe, Aviana. Though with Aviana's return it is difficult to say which of the two Myranda has most loyalty for.

More detail about The Wilds Pack and their domain can be found HERE.

Former Barons
Border, The: Baron 'Priss'
Domain - Chasse 4, Lien 3, Portillon 5
Aliases and Nicknames
None
Clan
Unknown Generation Lasombra
Haven
Haven 3 (Apartment Building: Armoury, Hidden Armoury 5, Library: Occult, Postern 3: Linked Basements, Security System 5, Watchmen 3)
Backgrounds 
Allies (Gang Members: Effectiveness 4, Reliability 3), Herd 3 (Building Residents), Influence 3 (The Border), Mask 1, Mawla 4 (Marius Walker), Resources 3, Status 1 (Anarch)
Merits
Beautiful 2, Bond Resistance 3
Flaws
Despised 2 (Former Barony of the Angels Gangs), Infamy 2 (Unpredictable)
Derangements
Antisocial Personality Disorder (Suspected), Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Psychopathy (Suspected),
Lore
Descendent of Montano (2: Siblings in Darkness, 3: Abyssal Apprentice), High Clan (2: Sway the Low), Kindred Iconography (1: Iconographer, 2: The Writing on the Wall), The Bahari (1: Dangerous Reputation, 3: Sacrifice the Children, 4: The Womb's Blood), The Labyrinth (1: Tunnel Access)

Priss was granted the domain known as 'the Border' and subsequently the title of Baron for services to the Crypts Sons Baron, Hank. Though their relationship has had significant ups and downs, they currently have reached an understanding and truce which seems to be holding.

Those kindred who were once part of the Barony of the Angels, remember Priss's part in establishing her own position at their expense and many still hold grudges. Few would be foolish enough to attack her directly now, but would still be ready to act against her if the risks were low enough.

Her greatest ally is currently Marius Walker, Baron of Downtown, who has given her considerable support over the last year or so.

She has recently stepped down from the position and her Barony has been absorbed into the newly reformed 'Barony of the Angels'. In practical terms she still has exactly the same sized domain and Marius's support in any conflict with the other kindred residents of L.A. In short, she has all the power she once possessed but none of the accountability or responsibility of a Baron.

Crypts Sons, The: Baron Henrique Boyd
Domain - Chasse 4, Lien 3, Portillon 1
Aliases and Nicknames
Hank
Clan
9th Generation Brujah
Haven
Ranch in Commerce (Haven 3: Hidden Armoury 5, Library 1, Location, Luxury, Postern 3: Secret Tunnels, Security System 5, Watchmen 5)
Backgrounds 
Allies (Crypt's Sons: Effectiveness 4, Reliability 3), Contacts 1-3 (Multiple Useful Mortals), Herd 3 (Mortal Crypt's Sons), Influence 4 (The Crypts Sons Gang), Mask 3 (Cobbler), Mawla 3 (Gary Golden), Mawla 2 (Mr Hertz), Resources 3, Retainer 2-3 (Ghouled Crypt's Sons Lieutenants, Multiple), Status 3 (Crypt's Sons Baron), Status 2 (Anarch)
Merits
Linguistics (French)
Flaws
Prey Exclusion 1 (Children)
Derangements
Paranoia (Mild), PTSD (Major)
Lore
Descendent of Tyler (3: Tyler’s Mercy), Sect War Veteran (1: Survivor, 2: Active Participant, 4: No Vampire's Land)

The recent Camarilla invasion, The vampire hunters of  The Blood and betrayal from within have reduced the Crypts Sons from one of the largest and most dangerous kindred gangs within L.A., to a shadow of their former might. Hank's priority is now upon rebuilding his gang, and re-establishing himself as a Baron to be feared and respected.

The greatest threat to Hank from among the Barons are his rivals within El Hermandad. This threat has become far greater now that El Hermandad's Baron Gloria Martinez and Allison Maller, Baron of Anaheim are united. The Crypts Sons need to rebuild, and quickly, before their enemies take advantage of his depleted resources.

Hank numbers both Michael Tomassio and Gary Golden amongst his allies and both are currently assisting him with his rebuilding process.

Hank and all except one member of The Crypts Sons were wiped out in a Sabbat assault. They had recently survived an internal revolt by gang members who had secretly pledged themselves to the Sabbat and it is thought that outside elements of the so-called 'Sword of Caine' finished the task as revenge for the loss of their comrades in that revolt.

More details on The Crypts Sons origins can be found HERE.

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Should you be interested in the chronicles and stories associated with these pages then links to them all can be found HERE.
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Acknowledgements
I've used pictures of real people to represent some of the characters and art for others so in no particular order Michael Tomassio is Matt Bomer, Louis Fortier is Eduardo Verastegui, Allison Maller is Chloe Grace Moretz,  Karen Anatos is Christina Hendricks, Marius Walker is Tony Curran, Salvador Garcia is Antonio Banderas, Isaac Abrams is Gary Oldman, Gloria Martinez is Ariadne Artiles, Amara Martins is Indira Varma, Therese Voerman is Whitney Moore, Harvey Caplan is Harvey Keitel, Gary Golden is an image from the Bloodlines PC game, Myranda Marie is Shannyn Visceral, 'Priss' is Sofia Boutella, and Henrique Boyd is Michael Clarke Duncan,
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