Shanghai - Chapter Five Within and Without PDF

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Shanghai - Chapter Five: Within and Without

A look into the eternal struggle of the Kindred in Shanghai.
Additional Material: Santiago (Tepet Augustus) Garcia Belmar, Juhl Heine (Hunt79) Jensen, Daniel (Kallak) Guilkey and Patrick
(Patkin) Flannery.
by Eloy Lasanta (https://web.archive.org/web/20101230113427/mailto:kendril1@gmail.com) and Chris "WiGGy" Brown

(https://web.archive.org/web/20101230113427/mailto:miskatonic_dropout@yahoo.com) (World of Darkness
(https://web.archive.org/web/20101230113427/http://www.nocturnis.net/games/world_of_darkness) | World of Darkness: Shanghai
(\"http://www.nocturnis.net/projects/world_of_darkness_shanghai\") | Resources)
Phillip Transen put his cigarette out in the finely crafted ashtray before sitting down to the left of his 'employer', the esteemed Dorben Colbles. Colbles sat at the
head of the table, and watched silently as Phillip settled in the chair and maneuvered it forward a few inches. In his mind's eye, Phillip imagined Dorben
commenting about how silly the notion of his smoking really was. After all, he'd been dead – or more correctly undead - for better than twenty years now.
"Surely, such old habits should have followed their master to the grave by now" Cobles said offhandedly.
”But they did,” his mind replied. “They just followed me back out again.” Phillip nearly chuckled out loud. He envisioned his cigarettes clawing their way out of
the ground and snaking up his skin and into his mouth. Looking back to Colbles, Phillip cleared his throat. He hoped that the action - another old habit – would
clear his mind as well. He knew that Dorben would have bigger things to occupy his thoughts than his underling's waste of time, money and cigarettes. He
always did.
"Our line's position in Shanghai has not improved." Dorben said. Years ago, such an opening would have surprised Phillip. However, after many meetings with
Dorben he knew full well that Mr. Colbles was not one for pleasantries. "My contacts tell me that the Warlocks still hold sway."
"Shanghai...?" Phillip said, puzzled. He knew that Dorben had been investing increasing amounts of time and money on the city, but none of the business side
ever came through him. He oversaw the books and accounting. The remainder of Dorben's Shanghai affairs went through Eduard. "I don't understand."
"Eduard is gone." Dorben said plainly. "...and you are taking over my affairs in there."
"I don't get it. What do you mean, gone? Gone where?"
"Gone," Dorben said with a shaking of his head. "Where and how are not important. What is important is that you are going to take his place. My Shanghai
affairs shall be yours now."
Phillip sat silently for a moment. If Eduard was 'gone' and his work being reassigned, that meant he was destroyed. Just as Rand had been before him. If two of
Dorben's men had been sent to Final Death over his affairs there, that meant something serious must be going on. Something that could make himself number
three.
"Why this face?" Dorben stood suddenly, his arms gesturing towards Phillip. "You are moving up in the world, gaining more responsibilities, more prestige.
Whenever I am asked about my foreign affairs, I can say that Phillip Transen has them well in order...and you shall."
Phillip admitted inwardly that such did sound nice. To have someone like Dorben Colbles spreading your name around wasn't a bad thing at all. If this Shanghai
thing worked out, he could return and begin his own operations. Start making his own way instead of making Dorben's. Still, a job with two predecessors turned
to ash...that was something to make you think twice.
"Very well" Phillip said, standing. "I'll do it. I'll take Eduard's place; manage your Shanghai affairs."
"Excellent!" Dorben moved forward and put an arm about Phillip's shoulders. "I knew I could count on you Phillip. Come; let me explain to you exactly what it is
I'm doing in Shanghai. What you will be doing." He started walking and Phillip matched his steps.
"The Ventrue have always directed the Camarilla." Dorben continued. "We led them through the dark ages. Through the stabilization of Europe, we led them
through the founding of the colonies and the formation of this America. Now, recent times show, that they are getting involved with Asia. Only we can lead
them."
Phillip furrowed his brow momentarily. "What are you getting at?"
Dorben stopped up short and released the smaller man. He moved to stand face to face with Phillip and put an arm on each of his shoulders. "Regal has soiled
our name in Shanghai. And you must undo the damage he has done. These Warlocks, these... Usurpers cannot be allowed to encroach upon the territory
rightfully ours. You must rebuild our preeminence in Shanghai, and put low the eastern Kindred at the same time."
"...and the Tre… er, Warlocks?"
"Don't let them stand in your way."
***
The Camarilla in Shanghai
Asia is generally not a healthy place for careless Kindred. Dangers, of which the Get of Caine generally know little or nothing about, await both day and night,
be it the mysterious vampire-hunters living in the East, or the strange native Bloodline, the Cathay. Regardless of the unknown dangers, some Kindred make
their haven in Shanghai. Most of these risk takers hail from Clan Tremere, not surprising.
Recent nights have seen Cathayan and Western Kindred affairs intermingle, mainly due to the Quincunx’s influential Two-Fang Serpent Plan. This increased
contact is proof that the adage “the world is growing smaller” also applies to the inhabitants of the night.
Several recent events have urged especially the Tremere to take an interest in China. First, a cell of Cathayans made a deadly sortie on the Vienna Chantry. It
has always been the Tremere way to learn and adapt, and while this recent attack was fought off with relative ease, the Tremere decided to approach this and
their usual manner – to seek out the knowledge needed to stave off coming attacks. Secondly there is the loss of the Hong Kong Chantry and the supposed
Final Death of Oliver Thrace in 1999.
Thus unable to turn to what had been their largest holding in Asia, the Tremere started making plans for retaking the Hong Kong Chantry, as it was still judged
to be the most suitable location. The Tremere were not the only ones to involve themselves with the Cathayan problem. In these few years the Inner Circle
managed to learn more about the Cathayans than it had in decades before.
January 2000’s annual Inner Circle Teleconference saw fierce debate over the Cathayan problem. While the New Promise Mandarinate held center stage, the
Tremere plan was also briefly discussed, although whether it was a Tremere or a member of another Clan that brought the topic up is unknown. In any case,
the plans for retaking the Hong Kong Chantry were shelved, and new plans were made, involving another Chinese city also greatly influenced by the western
world. Rumors about cooperation between Tremere and Nosferatu have surfaced since, and they begin to sound true if one takes the time to look at the Cainite
presence in Shanghai.
Once the decision to establish a Tremere presence in Shanghai had been reached, the search for a person suitable to lead this began. The person had to be
both capable, able to adapt to the foreign setting of the Middle Kingdom, and ultimately expendable. The Tremere leaders selected Heike Vranitzky. Vranitzky
enjoyed notoriety for having trouble adhering to the strict Clan hierarchy. It was thought that this independent streak might serve him well, more or less isolated
as he would be in Shanghai, and at the same time it was thought that sending him to Shanghai would limit the amount of trouble that he could make. The word
exile was not even mentioned in a whisper.
Heike readily accepted. Heike’s disgust for Oliver Thrace guaranteed that the new blood would not lie complacent. Spite for his rival would provide all the
motivation necessary to create a permanent Tremere outpost in China. Although individual Kindred may have made the city their home before, the city would
firmly rest in the grasp of the Tremere and the Camarilla.
The Tremere
With Heike went others of his Clan, most notably among them his own grandchilder Lothario. Numerous Nosferatu also underwent the journey to the city called
the “Whore of China”. One thing that these two clans share is their thirst for knowledge, though how they would use that knowledge normally differs greatly.
Many newcomers, who know of the Tremere presence in the city, expected the warlocks to set up their Chantry in one of the old European manors surrounding
Shanghai. The case is quite the opposite. As traces of the mortal outdoorsman that Heike was still remain today, he was inspired by a very effective defensive
technique, used by so many animals – camouflage.
Thus true to the old adage about hiding in plain sight, Heike sent Lothario to Shanghai, ahead of the rest of the Tremere, to set up a Chantry in one of the many
newly built glass and steel skyscrapers that dominate the skyline of this particular Chinese city. Drawing upon the knowledge gained from the Cathayan attack
upon the Vienna Chantry, he and his underlings erected defenses, both mundane and magical, to ward off the strange capabilities of the eastern vampires. The
latter type of defenses was made as subtle as possible, so as to hopefully avoid drawing Cathayan attention.
Not long after Lothario sent the message concerning the completion of his appointed task, Heike and the remaining Tremere set foot in Shanghai, eager to
learn the secrets held by the enigmatic Cathay. When one considers the background of the Tremere, as mortal magi, it seems only natural that they looked first
to the mortal populace, for clues to the nature of Cathayan magic.
Since arriving the Warlocks have made some progress, although the Cathayan themselves still remain for the most part a mystery. In the course of this work,
Heike’s charges have divided into two camps. The conservative camp advocates a calm, careful, and most importantly of all, patient approach. As Heike and
Lothario both belong to this camp, it is by far the more influential of the two. However, at least one of the Tremere in Shanghai, the fiery Fukayna, does not have
the same patience as the conservative, and at least one other openly agrees with her views.
The Tremere have been especially successful in one area – the art of Feng Shui. There is much more to this than “Do it yourself – Feng Shui” books and new
age mysticism. In particular in the Middle Kingdom such things hold power – and the Tremere have a long history of discovering such power and adding it to
their own.
Much to the conservative faction’s chagrin, a large part of the progress made is owed to Fukayna’s work. Her success is the main reason that Heike has not
interfered with her work to a greater degree than is the case. Her lack of respect for her betters, however, has not earned her or those following her exampled
any further respite from Heike and his second in command.
Feng Shui in the Chantry
The Tremere Chantry is fortified with the latest in Feng Shui arrangements. Because of the Chantry’s location, inside a large Skyscraper, the Wall in the area is
relatively high under normal circumstances. However, with the help of Feng Shui, the Tremere have been able to lower the Wall when needed, allowing for
easier spells and rituals to be cast. So, while the security of the skyscraper is a good thing to the Tremere and their plans of hiding, the sheer location alone
marks for harder work to keep things going. With the good comes the bad.
The Nosferatu
The Nosferatu are the second largest group of Kindred in Shanghai. Those rare few privy to understanding the strange Cathayan Disciplines speculate that the
gaze of some of these strange beings may pierce the cover provided by the Obfuscate Discipline. But the Sewer Rats survive and prosper.
The most important reason for the great number of Nosferatu is simply … fear. Clan Nosferatu are the prime intelligence gatherers for both Sabbat and
Camarilla, and what tidbits they have collected in the last years point towards one thing – Gehenna is drawing closer and Nictuku activity is rumored to be
increasing. That should be enough to horrify most Nosferatu. It’s certainly the main reason for the Nosferatu known as Ser Piero. Bringing with him a little under
a half dozen followers, he has chosen to settle in a viper’s nest, believing it to be the safest place in the coming nights. For perhaps the enigmatic Cathay will be
able to see through the Nictuku’s mastery of Obfuscate? That is a feat that no known Nosferatu is capable of.
If one looks at the history of Clan Nosferatu and Shanghai of today, it might become obvious why the Nosferatu directed the Tremere’s attention towards this
particular Asian city. Throughout history, Nosferatu have been attracted to cities in a state of development. When changing the upper part of a city, the nether
parts must be changed as well. By whispering in the right ears, Nosferatu have in many cases been able to direct sewers and pipes as they wish. When
considering the clan’s great natural strength as well, a picture of subterranean vampires capable of adding their own considerable skills in construction to this.
Adding this historical fact concerning Clan Nosferatu with the fact that Shanghai is the city in the world undergoing the greatest development at the moment – in
fact a fifth of all major construction cranes are to be found within the boundaries of this city - the puzzles starts to fall into place.
Asia may belong to the Cathayan, but at least one part of the Chinese underground is being challenged by one of the greatest dangers lurking in the night – a
group of Cainites frightened for their life.
To the outside, the Nosferatu’s attitude towards the Kindred of the East is very simple – avoid them at all cost. The stories and rumors of successful contacts
between Cainites and Cathayans are rare indeed and very far between. Ser Piero’s band has been instructed to use outmost caution when forced
aboveground, for reasons such as feeding. Under no circumstance is one to lead the Cathay back to Nosferatu lairs or meeting places. This is looked on with
the gravest of concern and punished harshly – already one Nosferatu has met Final Death at Ser Piero’s hands.
Things are not only what they appear, however. While Ser Piero might seem to have unconditional control over the Nosferatu of Shanghai, things are somewhat
different in reality. Someone is tugging on Ser Piero’s strings much to his chagrin, and that someone is none other than his own misbegotten childe, Ferret.
Ferret’s intentions couldn’t be more different than his Sire’s. He has been dealing with the Eastern Kindred for years – the same Kuei-jin who kill the other
Kindred nightly. He has intimate relations with some inside the Quincunx, most recently in the Hidden Economy, and has sealed a certain protection from the
Hungry Dead as a result. The Nossies may tread the sewers without repercussion, as well as feed from the Cathayans’ livestock, in return for their silence.
This silence, however, will last only as long as it suits Ferret as he plans to launch an offensive against Shanghai’s Kuei-jin – the very Cathayans which Ser
Piero counted on to at least warn against the Nictuku - as soon as the Tremere finish their experiments with Asian magics. The exact plans on the attack are
kept a secret for the moment, but do involve a huge break in the Masquerade, which is sure to anger many of the more conservative Kindred in the city.
The Ventrue
The Blue Blood population in Shanghai has dwindled within the last few years, due to one Kindred. In 1973 a Seattle Ventrue, Bryan Regal was the Camarilla’s
first agent attempting to establish a front in Shanghai. He served as Prince to the eight or nine Kindred in the city and, year after year, the Kindred population
began to increase, eventually into the thirties by the year 2000. But the more Kindred that were created, the more the suspicion of the local Kuei-jin was
aroused.
Regal lacked dignitas and grew arrogant, wishing to bring more of the Camarilla (specifically the Ventrue) into Shanghai, but his requests were denied each
time. Regal became impatient and called for the mass Embrace to fill his ranks, even though he knew this to be subject to a Blood Hunt. The night of
December 12th, 2000 marked Shanghai’s Ivory Tower stealing a page from the Sabbat’s playbook. The Inner Circle would not stand for that.
Every childe created on that cursed night was disposed of and every Kindred under Regal’s command met Final Death. Regal himself was held for treason and
destroyed in a slow, torturous way that might even get a Tzimisce’s heart stirring again. To dissuade inquiries from outsiders, the justicars announced that the
Sabbat perpetrated the mass Embrace. This halted the fears of Camarilla neonates and others not privy to the secrets of the Inner Circle, but from this
moment on, it was determined that the Ventrue were not fit to lead the institution of the Kindred in Shanghai. This is when the new plans of the Tremere began
to take form.
However, the Blue Bloods have not been ousted entirely. Regal’s old mansion has been taken by a handful of Ventrue and made into their official
headquarters. The Ventrue do not rule the night in Shanghai, but then again neither do the Tremere. They will sit and watch and help out other Western
factions, by looking after the financial aspects of this war, but lack the will to do little else. They will rule when the Tremere have done their job, just like they
always have.
Toreador, Brujah, Malkavians and the Thin-Blooded
The remaining clans of the Camarilla have little representation in Shanghai, but are represented by a few noteworthy Kindred.
The Toreador, seen as the advisors and companions to the Ventrue, have sent only two Kindred into the city. They are to find cultural centers, museums and
other beautiful things to share with their Clan. They stand back when ever there are confrontations between the Camarilla and the Flesh Court, wanting instead
to simply explore Shanghai and experience it to the fullest.
Brujah don’t make it far in the Middle Kingdom as a general rule. The majority of the clan’s tendency to frenzy at a moment’s notice brings Final Death upon
most of them from either the shen or the local Shih fairly quickly. However, one Elder Brujah has survived in Shanghai since 1850. This vampire works behind
the scenes and remain nameless from the Kindred. He or she is accepted by the local shen and shuns the Camarilla and their edicts. Most problems that the
Camarilla runs into are blamed on these invisible autarkies in order to save face about their decisions.
The Malkavians are seldom populous in the Middle Kingdom, either. If they can be identified by Clan, they are quickly destroyed by the Kuei-jin because of
their Dementation mastery. They stay hidden away from everyone’s sight because of this.
The Thin-Blooded have begun turning up all over Asia in the past decade, but even more so in Shanghai. It has become some sort of strange meeting place for
those of 14th and 15th Generation and there are rumors that they are in league with the Kuei-jin’s spawn, the dhampyr. If the same opportunity of status, like
that of San Francisco, was ever introduced to the Thin-Blooded in Shanghai, the Camarilla would have a real problem on their hands.
The French Concession
When speaking of the Kindred in Shanghai, the conversation always turns to French Town. Due to this sector being home to 60% of all the vice (including
brothels, opium dens and gang headquarters) in the city, certain areas have been deemed neutral quarters. The Kindred use this neighborhood as a basis for
their arrival in Shanghai, since even they are protected by the neutrality of the French Connection, much to the dismay of the Kuei-jin. Because most vice in
Shanghai is owned and operated by the Wan Kuei, it is most important that the area not be tainted by combat within its respectable borders. The Kin-jin are
targets when not in French Town and they know it. So, as manipulative creatures, they use the local politics to their advantage.
Blood Alley, the largest red-light district in Shanghai, houses many of these areas of armistice. It is the central location when trying to buy or sell information of
any kind and is the primary dwelling of many of the city’s Kindred. The dealings have not gone unnoticed, however, as the antagonistic Running Monkeys urge
the courts to rule out the cease-fire. The Silent Mandarins have heard these protests, but have yet to respond.
Nightingales’ Perch, a bar and nightclub that dates to the turn of the 20th century, stands as the central location for interplay for the Camarilla. Anyone may
enter, but few do when they uncover the Kindred presence there. The single owner and operator of the business, who is simply called Pearl, has run the Perch
for the last 50 years, yet she has the appearance of a young Asian woman around the age of 20. She has also been a tremendous assistance to the Camarilla,
helping to plot many of their exploits. The type of shen blood she possesses and why she would help the gweilo are both under suspicion at all times, but her
aid is too great to nonchalantly pass aside.
The Inner Circle
The Inner Circle has not forgotten East Asia and has their representative, Thomas Wyncham, constantly takes note of the events that follow. He hopes that,
with the right moves, the Tremere will finally be able to cement their position. He waits by the sideline, however, waiting to see how it all turns out and if his
interaction is needed.
Huangpu District
The Tremere know the value of not attempting virginal magic in their own backyard, so other measures must be taken. Just south of the Old City is the first
Tremere experimental territory. The slums of the Huangpu District were held to some of the worst trials the Tremere had to offer and all at the hand of the new
Dark Feng Shui. Several of the Kindred met Final Death as well, because of this new Path, yet the trial and error continued.
As Heike began to protest against this continual experimentation on a single area, Fukayna spoke forward. The trials progressed as scheduled, until in the end
there was a huge explosion of spiritual energy due to an inaccurate movement of a Dragon Line. This has left the entire district absolutely spiritually tainted,
even though no Kindred can sense the difference unless they possess the Path that caused it all, Dark Feng Shui.
Soon after, the area was abandoned by all Camarilla Kindred, leaving it as the perfect place for their rivals, the Sabbat, to enter. At times, there are clashes
between the two in the area, but now there are other things to consider. Demons, Fomori, bakemono, whatever you want to call them, have begun escaping
from their hellish realms into the Middle Kingdom. The Tremere know that they are responsible, but have officially forwarded the blame to the Sabbat,
anticipating additional funding and man-power from the Inner Council as its result.
The Sabbat in Shanghai

Camarilla intelligence anticipates that the Sabbat interest in Shanghai would be weak at best, as too many well-entrenched factions had already snapped up the
prime territory. But the Sabbat have a strong desire to hold China’s primary port of entry. Following recent clues about his clan forgotten origin, the Salubri
antitribu inceptor Adonai has sent his own second child to investigate about his clan’s ancient origins. This Cainite, Miguel, has surrounded himself with his old
pack, a band of hard boiled Furies, experts in warfare against their ancient enemies. Lin Baloh, a Chinese Lasombra, has sent several of his own Childer to
help Miguel in whichever his quest it is. He seeks to promote his own standing and his own bloodline’s amongst the Keepers; the Salubri foray promises great
opportunities.
As is stated in the Guide to the Sabbat, the Sword of Caine has little to no representation in the Middle Kingdom. Only the Tzimisce mole in Hong Kong and a
pack from Tokyo are all that the sect can muster in the Middle Kingdom. Only the constant presence of Lin Baloh and the Nanjing Lasombra has given the
Sabbat any permanent foothold in China, and only from a century ago or so. Anyways, the old Lasombra has been a nuisance to the Kuei-jin courts for a long
time, using his constant travel to mask his footholds. If the scattered Asian Sabbat has any real leader, this is Baloh.
Baloh was a peasant during the Taiping rebellion, in which most of his family was killed. This drove the young man the self-destruction, losing everything he had
to opium. Baloh was embraced by his sire due to his inspired rampages under the effects of the opium, which seemed to affect him in a different way than
usual, driving him to frenzies of madness. During one of those, in which he was writing insults to port authorities with spices and spilled perfumes, he catch the
eye of one of the Lasombra antitribu of Nanjing. After that, it was only a matter of time before he killed his sire, and forced the other Shanghai Lasombra to join
the Sabbat or face Final Death. (A complete profile of Lin Baloh can be found in Clanbook: Lasombra.)
A Look at the Past
Adonai seeks to obtain the lost ancient knowledge of his clan. His efforts have already revived the practice of Valeren, thought gone for centuries after the
carnage caused by the Camarilla. He already procured several ancient texts from a Cambodian temple written in forgotten Salubri ciphers. When news of
objects extracted from a minor archaeological dig near Shanghai that displayed a similar code arrived, Adonai was eager to investigate. After sending a
succession of single Sabbat agents to obtain more info, they discovered that the native vampires protected these areas. But from a distance, writings and
several paintings of three eyed figures could be seen.
This potential knowledge about his bloodline further reinforced his determination. Adonai called on contacts for information concerning the oriental vampires,
just in case. However, he could turn up nothing useful to his cause. Then, after a Blood Feast in Regent Galbraith’s haven, he met an interesting Chinese
Cainite that was visiting in the name of his sire, an ancient Lasombra from a city in China.
Adonai spoke extensively with the man about the eastern vampires, finding out that tales of the third-eye existed there as well. Unsure what to do about this,
Adonai meditated over all the information he possessed. Obviously, there was at least the slightest possibility that the Salubri featured in Asia’s long past.
Some of them could even still be undead.
Adonai is no fool, and so perfectly knows that there can be other reasons why a vampire could have a third eye, as he has met a lot of Fiends in the Sabbat.
And the oriental vampires were famous for strange and unknown powers. But he also reasoned that it was perfectly possible that several of his bloodline could
have taken refuge from the hated camarilla in a place where it hold little to no power, and the recent research in Shanghai indicated that the “Kuei-jin”, as the
Chinese Lasombra referred to them, had obtained ancient knowledge of his clan. Something needed to be done, and soon, or the knowledge could be lost
forever. Adonai needed someone in his confidence who was expendable sent to Shanghai. Someone who was also powerful and intelligent enough to at least
hold his ground for enough time to complete the research that his previous spies had been unable to collect. After careful consideration, he chose his second
Embraced childe’s pack to take care of this matter. As the pack consisted exclusively of
Salubri antitribu, it was a better choice than sending his first Embraced.
Intervention
It was not long before Miguel, as the childe of Adonai was named, presented himself with his pack before the unappointed leader of the Sabbat in Asia. Lin
Baloh saw a great opportunity. After all, he thought, the founder of a bloodline was the founder of a bloodline, no matter how small or new that is. If he helped
this Miguel and his pack in his operations in Shanghai, not only would he befriend an important political figure, but he also would cement the Sabbat position in
Asia as a whole. So, to help Miguel and his pack attain as much success as possible, he sent one of the few packs that he knew well, the one who was directed
by one of his sire’s brood, Tian Wan-Yin, to set up shop in Shanghai. All the better to forward his own Jyhad…
Recent Events
Finally, over the course of the last year, both packs arrived in Shanghai. As soon as he arrived in the city, Miguel put his nose to the grindstone. After securing a
refuge, he immediately started planning a first trip to both the museum and the excavations. He had all the info that his sire Adonai had obtained through spies
and contacts, not much, but enough to know that the museum was heavily defended against intrusion. So Miguel attempted to examine the archaeological site.
He was expecting no opposition, apart from normal humans, and that was his first mistake. Before he and his pack mates could enter the site, they were
savagely attacked by an unknown force, attacking from a distance and using strange powers to keep Miguel off balance. A force undoubtedly supernatural in
origin. Miguel planned three assaults on the ruins, and the three of them were met with failure. In the last, one of his pack mates found Final Death, and they
were no closer to learning why the dig was defended. This greatly disturbed
Miguel, who found himself locked into a stalemate with unknown enemies. He tried more subtle tactics approaches with the Museum, but all attempts ended in
failure.
Meanwhile, Tian Wan-Yin arrived also at the city. Having a better knowledge of the Middle Kingdom’s shen than Miguel, Wan-Yin quickly secured a refuge for
her and his pack mates. Moving in the shadows, speaking with shen who didn’t mattr about her Cainite descent but how much could she pay, she obtained
information about Miguel’s gambits. Trying to maintain distance from her sectarian initially, she met Baloh’s contacts in the underground community before
acting openly.
The Avenging Razors, Salubri antitribu pack

The Razors hail from Mexico, where they enjoyed renown from repeated success in the East Coast offensive. Licks whispered that the Razors ripped apart their
foes in combat, and would never run from a conflict. Miguel, the second childe of Adonai, serves as the pack priest and possesses a sharp head for tactics.
His chief underling, priest Jacob Mathew Jones, got ashed in one of the exploration missions to the archaeological digs. The new priest is Esther, a former
Tremere (antitribu?) ghoul. IS SHE A DUCHESKI? REVENANT? The other survivor, Robert, saw combat in the first Gulf War and was Embraced by Miguel to
be a combat buddy. Neither Miguel nor Robert trust Esther, as she retains links to the Camarilla’s most painful thorn, but she has never failed to perform against
the Ivory Tower. She shows nothing but deep hatred for her former masters, so her occult knowledge make her the best choice to replace Jacob. Miguel is
considering Embracing a new childe in Shanghai to recover from the recent losses, but he has not decided yet who to select. The Razors act as a well trained
combat unit, thanks to Robert’s field training, and each member can handle blades as well as firearms.
The Hidden Lotus, Nanjing pack
The Hidden Lotus has lurked throughout Asia since the beginning of the twentieth century, making them one of the most successful packs in surviving the hell
that the Middle Kingdom is to the Sabbat. Although most of the original members have been killed, Wan-Yin, the ductus, managed to survive all the hazards
facing her. She has been training the new pack priest, Shao Ngo, a promising young Abyss mystic. Three other members survive to this night, Xuerui, another
local Lasombra, Jessica, an American Pander, and Sandro, a Tzimisce from Tijuana. Neither Jessica nor Sandro could refuse the great advancement
opportunity that Baloh offered. The pack’s local Lasombra bloodline resents the influx of new blood quietly, but Wan-Yin cannot refuse the extra muscle they
provide. As long as the gweilo don’t interfere with her sire’s plans, she’ll gladly spend her nights with the newcomers.
Mausoleum and Court, Owl and Hare (Giovanni)
Few Kindred have enjoyed as much success with the haughty and elegant Cathayans as the Giovanni representatives. A tentative alliance, a trading of
knowledges, access to study the unique Asian Underworld, even the right to feed and occasionally Embrace; these are among the many advantages the
Giovanni have over their Kindred cousins.
But the Necromancers’ relationship with the powers that be dangles on the edge each night. As the months fly by, the Court allows less and less room for the
Giovanni to maneuver. For the back in Venice, this state of affairs irritates, but hardly spells an end to their plans. For those Giovanni on the ground, however,
this change heralds nothing but the worst.
A Look at Their Past
The Giovanni network within Asia represents countless nights of labor for the Family. The della Passaglia have always led their cousins in looking East.
Allegedly, the first della Passaglia arrived as a foreman in Marco Polo’s caravan. Since the 1400s, the illicit household has done everything in their power to
stay above water in a hostile environment, even going so far as to occasionally bring a native into the family line as a comprador to keep them connected, a
tactic that is looked down upon by the clan back home. Above-table and below-table trading, opium and firearm sales, and trading with each and every political
faction, Guomintang and Communist, while staying nominally neutral (read, in it for themselves) has given the della Passaglia the foothold they needed to hold
onto their Asian niche.
While they struggled desperately to remain in the Middle Kingdom, in Europe the few remaining della Passaglia had been consumed by the Giovanni. The
household leaders folded like a deck of cards to Augustus’s brood, and the offers of income and further security sweetened the pot for the toiling della Passaglia
in Asia, who were considering renouncing their doddering relations back home. In return, the Giovanni gained access to the trade routes and access to the Far
East that the Cappadocian purges practically demanded of them.
The East hid many of the old Clan, some having been there for centuries, others having fled there from the Middle East and further away still. With the takeover
of the della Passaglia family, these hiding places were once again broken apart, and in some places the ashes of ancients so old even the wooden stake would
not drive them to torpor scattered the winds. A few captured Cappadocians professed admiration for their Eastern counterparts before falling to the Ameranth,
claiming the ancients were educators and teachers on their paths of enlightenment. These ‘Flowers of Bone’ have posed as a constant foil for Giovanni forays
into the East since that time.
After a few centuries of being self-absorbed and obsessed with the formation of the new sects, the Giovanni turned to East Asia again. The della Passaglia had
made a number of interesting anchorheads in assumed hostile territory. In return for free rein to collect souls, the Saigon della Passaglia would offer the one
thing that held interest to the flesh-workers: information about the western sects and clans. This signaled the reaming of the della Passaglia. Since that fateful
night, the della Passaglia have slowly been getting squeezed out of Asian shadow politics as the Wan Reng no longer need a mole. In Beijing, Running
Monkeys booted out the family representative out of the Underground City. Their Ancestor, Ch’ang, tires of Martino, especially since the democracy protests in
1989. The family has faced more and more young rabble-rousers "invading" the Underground City, using old city plans to find their entrances. It’s almost
guaranteed that since the Great Leap Forward, the remaining della Passaglia face the strongest opposition China has to bear.
However, Martino has been clever, and he recently offered a deal with the courts. In return for the safety of his family, della Passaglia and the clan would
provide the Kuei-jin just what they wanted, a beachhead in western lands and an approach to attack the hated Trimira of Vienna. The mandarins’ greed in
taking the deal infuriated the younger jina. But the offer was one that the Demon People simply could not refuse. The della Passaglia claim to have discovered
a way to produce the Second Breath on Western shores. And in return, the bloodthirsty ringleaders of the Great Leap Forward must allow representatives of
one of the most depraved, uncouth barbarians of the western Kindred to remain exactly where they are. Some view the situation as a deal with Yomi Wan, while
for others, it is the single cost of a victorious Middle Kingdom.
Getting to Asia
Shanghai has been mostly ignored during these interesting times. Indeed, Martino della Passaglia’s contact with Shanghai is tertiary at best, centering much of
his work through Beijing and keeping the family enclave there (the largest in Asia) intact. Still, one should not pass up an opportunity, and Martino realizes this.
Though a Westerner, della Passaglia knows of the conflict between the gaki and the Flesh Court, and of the Bamboo Princes. He’s managed to open up space
within Shanghai for his family to operate due to favors owed, which they frequently resell to any and all comers. The interesting take on the Masquerade in the
Middle Kingdom allows the family to treat the politics of the Kuei-jin and the mortal realm as much the same. Every shadow war, every brush conflict between
the old and the new brings more souls into the grasp of the della Passaglia family, and the Giovanni clan as a whole.
Much like in Saigon and Beijing, the small enclave of della Passaglia necromancers study the Yellow Emperor’s underworld in Shanghai, and have helped
spread the claim that the family elders have found a way to bring the Second Breath to areas outside the Middle Kingdom. Darker rumors, that they have also
found ways to still the maelstrom winds and even enter into Yomi Wan itself spread rapidly, led to some over-zealous wu breaking in and trying to execute the
Westerners for their impudence. Security in the Shanghai enclave is so severe and packed that the entire block the home is located on is haunted to some
degree or the other.
Western Representatives
Few Giovanni openly reside within Shanghai. The intermittent conflict between the gaki and indigenous Cathayans keeps the whole city on the edge of
exploding, so the canny Giovanni seek refuge in the suburbs, preferring only to visit when necessary. Truth be told, the Giovanni have stayed aloof from the
Shanghai situation almost from day one, playing it safe in the volatile city, and so, few of the (once) well-connected della Passaglia family have given much
thought to Shanghai.
Only three members of the Giovanni family have taken residence up in Shanghai, but each of them has tied their fortune and very unlives to the welfare of
Shanghai. Eldest of the three is Carlos il Montega della Passaglia, one of the family’s more noteworthy minds, who has survived for almost two centuries. He
Embraced Serena della Passaglia during the height of the war. He selected her for her understanding of the Japanese mindset, though it was never put to use.
His other childe is a pariah. Andrei Rubachevsky once was a Russian noble, a would-be adventurer. Abroad during the Communist uprising, he managed to
keep his life. Embraced outside of Venice’s jurisdiction, his very existence has remained Carlos's only black mark in two hundred years of loyal service.
Since arriving in Shanghai in the spring of 1887, Carlos has worked diligently to cement relationships with the local Vampires. He learned every nuance of the
Chinese mindset, studied their culture, religions and politics, and was always unfailingly polite and often looked upon by the Asian Vampires as everything the
Kin-jin could be if they tried.
During the multitude of events that have rocked the city of Shanghai, Carlos has taken every opportunity to ingratiate himself in any way possible, from helping
smuggle weapons to spying on the Johnny-come-lately Kindred and their pawns. During the height of the Japanese occupation, Carlos was instrumental in
smuggling Chinese vampires in and out of the city, as well as using his Necromancy to interfere with gaki invaders.
The Embrace of Serena was in part to provide a go between from Chinese to Japanese, little realizing how he would offend the gaki by sending a Cainite
negotiator. In 1942, a gaki assassin nearly destroyed Carlos in the safety of his own haven. Were it not for the fortuitous presence of Andrei, the assassin would
have succeeded. Still, he continued attempting to negotiate with the gaki, but found them ultimately rejecting his numerous advances. He assumed all Asian
customs were the same and offered the same deals to the Japanese that he did for the Chinese. This lead to the downfall with the ketsuki.
Realizing that the Japanese would never treat him with the respect he had earned from the Chinese, Carlos moved further into the city, entwining his fate to that
of the Chinese vampires he admired. In the Final Nights, as the Chinese courts step back and smile condescendingly at the ignorant della Passaglia, even the
well-liked Carlos finds his allies falling away, and his enemies creeping closer. But Shanghai is all he has.
Shanghai in the Eyes of the Dead
From the beginning of the della Passaglia business interests in China, a tentative peace has been held between the insular family and the Wan Kuei, a peace
that over the centuries resembled an alliance. As time passed, many Giovanni relaxed their guard, confident that they had bound the Asian courts to them with
the right information. All that came crashing down not four years ago, in the wake of the Week of Nightmares. The Five Courts suddenly could not find the time
of night to pay the usual courtesies to their visitors, and the della Passaglia panicked. Their entire fate and power was tied to their interests in China. If they
couldn’t provide tribute to Augustus, the anzetti would be happy to eliminate them wholesale. This very threat was calmly delivered by Diego Giovanni’s man to
Antonio della Passaglia.
Suddenly all eyes turned to Carlos, the rogue still residing in conflict ridden Shanghai, as the last hope of the family. Carlos has had a tremendous weight
dropped on him, and a responsibility that in effect gives him power over his own Sire, Antonio.
The loss of the Giovanni’s hold on such a large number of wraiths in the wake of the last great Maelstrom has left the smaller families with a nasty threat
hanging over their heads. “Bring us more souls, or your time is up.” The della Passaglia fear the worst. In the depths of Asia, their reach is small and their
grasp weak, and the locals do not take kindly to the trapping of their ancestors. Knowing that they cannot possibly begin to fill the quota the Giovanni ask, the
della Passaglia elders have requested him to negotiate asylum with the Cathayans.
Even though Carlos knows the Elders of the family have agreed on this course of action, all repercussions for failure shall fall squarely upon himself and his
Sire, and the vengeance of the Giovanni can be more terrifying than Final Death. In addition, Martino has authorized the family there to grant the Proxy Kiss to
as many non-family members as they need to keep the bolthole open. Even coming within four blocks of the area is sure to set off one or two ghouls working for
the family.
Andrei Rubachevsky Speaks.
For over fifty years, the gaki and the Quincunx have battled like demons for this piece of land, and nobody seeming to ever really gain the upper hand. I can tell
you one thing I have noticed in my time here; they wage war much as we do, behind the curtains of belief, so yeah; they carry on a Masquerade as well. They
manipulate kine resources like we do; they play little political games of one upsmanship and the youngsters all feel like they are being treated unfairly. Funny
how things are the same, no matter how different they may appear to be. Seems to me that the same tactics we use against the Camarilla and Sabbat could
work here with out too much difficulty…something to think about.
Kin-jin of Note (NPCs)
The Camarilla
Heike Vranitzky, Keeper of the Chantry, 7th Generation Regent of the Third Circle
Background: Heike was born in the eastern Austrian Empire to a Czech family. He lived as a woodsman for most of his life and the exact details of his
becoming entrenched in the life of a Tremere is unknown except to the most scholarly of disciples. Despite this, Heike has stood for the power and glory of the
Tremere on more than one occasion, fighting countless skirmishes and creating several new spells and rituals to use against the clan’s enemies.
Bad blood exists between Oliver Thrace and Heike. When the two of them worked together on one certain ritual creation project, Thrace drove Heike into
torpor and took credit for his work. That ritual was the reason that Thrace was chosen to head the Chantry in Hong Kong, which angered Vranitzky when he
awoke. Nothing would please him more, than to succeed where Thrace failed and show the Tremere what true Thaumaturgy is.
He has arrived in Shanghai, with an impossible mission and meager forces, but is determined to show the Camarilla that it can be done. And it will be done, at
his pace. He will not concede to the constant bitching and moaning of Fukayna and Ser Piero. There is no need to.
Appearance: Heike looks like the rugged woodsman of the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales, who has decided to crawl into an expensive suit for the evening. Heike
stands a little over 6 feet tall, a broad shouldered boulder of a man. He has a wild mane of black hair worn in a ponytail or loose, when he doesn’t need to be
bothered by others. His face is half covered by a beard.
Roleplaying Hints: When you do show your face, you are seen a rough man with a deep voice. You say what’s on your mind without regard to anyone’s
opinions or feelings either. You are a strong man, who is not afraid to show your strength if needed. You command respect, mostly through fear. Kindness
should not be shown, but you do not scorn it.
Haven: Heike’s haven lies in the French Concession, as a simple apartment.
Secrets: He knows all of the information about the Inner Circle’s plans and his own. That is basis enough for secrets.
Influence: He is the leader of the Camarilla forces in Shanghai, yet has sunken into the background, pushing Lothario to the forefront. All major decisions go
through him, but he’s too deep into study of Thaumaturgy to care most of the time. All bow before him – if they know what’s good for them at least.
Clan: Tremere, Sire: unknown, Nature: Architect, Demeanor: Deviant, Generation: 7th, Embrace: 1603, Apparent Age: Mid-30s
Stats: Physical: Strength 5, Dexterity 4, Stamina 6, Social: Charisma 4, Manipulation 3, Appearance 2, Mental: Perception 3, Intelligence 3, Wits 5
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 3, Athletics 5, Brawl 2, Dodge 3, Empathy 2, Leadership 4, Skills: Animal Ken 4, Firearms 3, Melee 4, Stealth 3, Survival 5,
Knowledges: Investigation 4, Law 3, Occult 5, Politics 3, Science 3
Disciplines: Auspex 6, Thaumaturgy 5 (Path of Blood 5, Spirit Manipulation 5, Mastery of the Mortal Shell 5, Harnessed Dishamony 3), Dominate 5, Animalism
3, Fortitude 2, Potence 2, Rituals: Heike knows all the rituals that the ST deems necessary.
Backgrounds: Allies 2, Contacts 1, Herd 1, Resources 4, Status 4
Virtues: Conscience 3, Self-Control 5, Courage 5, Humanity: 6, Willpower: 8
Gu’er (Ghouled Dog)
Attributes: Strength 4, Dexterity 3, Stamina 3
Willpower: 5, Health Levels: OK, -1, -1, -2, -2, -5
Attack: Bite for five dice; claw for four
Abilities: Alertness 3, Athletics 2, Brawl 3, Dodge 3, Empathy 2, Intimidation 3, Stealth 2
Disciplines: Potence 1, Fortitude 1
Note: this dog has been a companion to Heike for centuries. His name means Orphan.
Lothario Degli Angeli, the Face of the Circle, 9th Generation Grand-Childe of Heike Vranitzky
Background: Lothario grew up in Hong Kong, a child of a wealthy Italian businessman. He was loved by all his nannies, but never by his own parents. This
much he knows. Most of his life’s memories have been removed (he suspects the use of Dominate). The Pyramid introduced Lothario to his grand-sire, Heike.
The transition to serving such a daunting, rugged man has gone over well, despite the Lothario’s mistrust of the Elder.
If Heike is the brain of the Tremere in Shanghai, then Lothario is both its protector and face to the outside world. It is widely known that he is Heike’s
grandchilde, yet neither will discuss Lothario’s sire.
He adopts the look of a businessman, like his mortal father, though he adores studying the legends of the Salubri and conducts the Camarilla’s business in
Shanghai with the greatest of precision. But in secret, Lothario is a monster. He hosts special “parties” for women never seen again. He “investigates” the
strange disappearance of children. The pleasure he feels from the slaughtering of the innocent is a profound one. However, this information is kept a secret
from all others.
Appearance: Lothario seems to be in his early thirties, standing about 1.8 meters high. He is slender, graceful and fashions his finely groomed black hair
swept back. He usually wears somber and finely cut suits, most often held in black, colored silk shirts and a black tie. His long hair always tied back for the
utmost appropriateness. He is slick and suave, with a smile that melts his followers.
Roleplaying Hints: You always are calm and in control. You are the pinnacle of appearing nonchalant and this simultaneously freaks others out and annoys
them. But behind closed doors, you are a ravenous monster. Little can stop your perverse feeding rituals, save for the call of Heike. Never let anyone into your
secret world, but never truly leave it either.
Haven: The French Concession holds the seat of power for the Kindred and this is where Lothario chooses to perch as well.
Secrets: Your Sire did something that ensures that he‘s never brought up, his name never mentioned. He has been wiped from you mind, but you wish to
uncover what it was that your sire did. One day, in the near future, you plan turning on your master. The secrets between the Kindred are plentiful, indeed.
Influence: He is the Tremere’s second in command and is listened to without a thought by most and not at all by few others.
Clan: Tremere, Sire: Forgotten, Nature: Monster, Demeanor: Conformist, Generation: 9th, Embrace: 1871, Apparent Age: Early thirties
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 5, Brawl 3, Dodge 3, Empathy 3, Intimidation 4, Leadership 3, Streetwise 2, Subterfuge 3, Skills: Crafts 2, Drive 2, Firearms 4,
Melee 3, Performance 2, Security 4, Stealth 3, Knowledges: Academics 3, Computers 3, Investigation 4, Law 3, Linguistics 3, Occult 3, Politics 2
Disciplines: Thaumaturgy 4 (Path of Blood 4, Movement of the Mind 3, Hands of Destruction 2), Dominate 3, Auspex 2, Presence 2, Rituals: Defense of the
Sacred Haven, Deflection of Wooden Doom, Ward Versus Ghouls, Incorporeal Passage
Backgrounds: Contacts 2, Influence 2, Mentor 4 (Heike), Resources 3
Fukayna, 11th Generation Childe of Marcus de Valmont
Background: Fukayna, whose name in Ibo means “Intelligent”, was taken from Nigeria to America as a slave by the French at the age of six and she grew up
like many other slaves taken care of by her mother until she was of use to the field master. In an emotional display, she was sold to another farm on the other
side of Alabama. She couldn’t bear to be without her mother, yet had no choice but to suffer to depression.
The dashing Marcus de Valmont brought the young Fukayna to his plantation to work, but became infatuated by her curves and beauty. After much secretive
courting between the two, they became lovers for several years and when she turned 20, Marcus Embraced her into the fold of the Tremere Clan. He passed it
off as new experiment to see how fast the African savages could adapt, as it took great intelligence to master Thaumaturgy. Although, he knew Fukayna was
far ahead of many of the slaves that were kept ignorant.
Fukayna passed these trials easily, along with a few other slaves, and served willingly by her master’s side for an entire century as Marcus’s soldier, lover, and
companion. But in 1936, a Blood Hunt was called on her and her master, when the news of their affair was discovered by the local Prince. It seems the Prince
of the city was a member of a certain hooded organization. Marcus did not make it out of the situation alive, leaving Fukayna to her own whims. She hunted
down and reduced the assailants to ash. She did not become an activist, however, only hunting down those directly responsible for her loss. She cared little for
the cause, although her head told her she should car more, her heart held only remorse for Marcus and not for all the slaves that suffered.
She became a prominent member in Camarilla and Tremere circles, using the secrets she learned from Marcus, making herself known to all but the newest
Kindred in any city she would visit. Upon learning of Heike’s plans, she decided to “help” in Shanghai. She packed up some of her followers and brought them
over, even being integral to the development of Dark Feng Shui, but does not like the way things are being handled. The progression of the city becoming a
Tremere stronghold is taking too long for her tastes and a coup may need to be asserted. We will see, however.
Appearance: A strong, beautiful woman with dark skin and sparkling hazel eyes. Her body is muscular, yet feminine. She keeps her hair braided most times
and wears normal, comfortable clothes (nothing too fancy or too slutty).
Roleplaying Hints: Your beauty belies the fiery spirit inside. You are a revolutionary, fighting for change in a land that is most stagnant. You will continue to
keep the Tremere in charge, but only until the time is right for you and Ser Piero to take it to the next level. You are very combative, ready to spark a battle in a
moments notice. However, your words are always soft, as you know the propriety of etiquette.
Haven: Fukayna has quite a few different havens, one in the basement of a hotel in New Pudong, a warehouse in the Huangpu District and the basement of the
Shanghai Stadium, just north of Central Shanghai.
Secrets: The exact plans to betray Heike are hers alone and she is just waiting for the right moment.
Influence: Fukayna has a great sway over certain Tremere and other Kindred of Shanghai, yet holds this power in reserve for a later time. She is known by all
and respected as a master in the arts.
Clan: Tremere, Sire: Marcus de Valmont, Nature: Survivor, Demeanor: Rebel, Generation: 11th, Embrace: 1767, Apparent Age: 20
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 3, Athletics 3, Brawl 2, Dodge 3, Expression 2, Intimidation 2, Leadership 3, Streetwise 4, Skills: Crafts 2, Etiquette 4, Firearms 1,
Melee 2, Performance 1, Security 1, Stealth 2, Survival 4, Knowledges: Computer 1, Investigation 2, Law 2, Linguistics 3, Occult 4, Politics 1
Disciplines: Auspex 4, Thaumaturgy 4 (Path of Blood 4, Harnessed Disharmony 4, Lure of Flame 2), Celerity 2, Dominate 1, Fortitude 1, Rituals: Wake with
Evening’s Freshness, Ward Versus Ghouls, Principal Focus of Vitae Infusion, Pavis of Foul Presence, Bone of Lies
Backgrounds: Allies 1, Contacts 2, Herd 2, Resources 3, Status 3
Ser Piero, 10th Generation Nosferatu Elder
Background: Ser Piero – which is almost certainly not his real name - was Embraced during the early 1700’s and has lived a life of murder and bloodshed ever
since. Little is known about his past, yet everyone in the Camarilla knows his name. He was sent into Asia, hoping to establish the area a Nosferatu dwelling
away from Nictuku. With deep and exact planning, this has come to fruition. The Sewer Rats are happy with this.
The Nosferatu started in Beijing, working with the Giovanni in league with the Cathayan Prince there to boost their potential profits. Ser Piero acquired
Communist Party files that allowed their networks to travel to Hong Kong, offering protection to Kindred from the Cathayan attackers. The projected earnings
returned tenfold, and this money was used to guide the rebuilding of Shanghai’s numerous sewer tunnels. Shanghai also has a large number of suitable
canals, making it a ‘Venice of the East.’ Nosferatu find that these allow for fast and convenient transportation as well. It is the perfect place for the Nosferatu to
set up shop in Asia.
Ser Piero was the Kindred who set this all up and was at the forefront of the reconstruction. This, along with the sheer age and potency of his blood, has made
him leader among the Nosferatu in Shanghai, a title he is very proud of. He is currently working with Fukayna, trying to push the moderate Heike and Lothario
from their thrones and place someone who’ll actual get things done in their places. Until then, he bides his time, waiting for the so-called 6th Age that everyone
seems up in arms about.
Appearance: Ser Piero resembles many of his Nosferatu compatriots. His attire is normally ripped, torn and dirty, as he doesn’t pay to much heed to his
physical shell. He does cover himself in the illusions allowed by Obfuscate, whenever conducting meetings with anyone not a Nosferatu. There is a certain form
he favors, one that is tied to the name he goes by. He has long been a devotee to all things derived from renaissance – thus he has adopted the name of
Michelangelo’s father, and when confronting the world outside Nosferatu circles, he does so in the form of da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man.
Roleplaying Hints: You are a schemer through and through. Every move, every thought, is a movement along the path you have planned from the beginning.
That is how you are, the perfect secret keeper. Every word you say is wrapped in slyness. This makes others trust you less and less the more they get to know
you. You’re not unlikable, just untrustworthy.
Haven: the sewers of Shanghai. When above ground, he has many dwellings in French Town.
Secrets: He has dealings with the Hidden Economy and some other Cathayan coteries, and collects information on the other Kindred in the Shanghai. He’s
got something bad on almost all of them, except Adrian Goldman.
Influence: Ser Piero’s potential influence over the Shanghai Kindred is immeasurable. He is not trusted with most minute things, yet no one can mistake his
genius when it comes to strategy.
Clan: Nosferatu, Sire: unknown, Nature: Judge, Demeanor: Architect, Generation: 10th, Embrace: 1709, Apparent Age: indiscernible
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 4, Athletics 3, Brawl 3, Dodge 5, Empathy 1, Intimidation 4, Streetwise 3, Skills: Animal Ken 3, Etiquette 1, Firearms 1, Melee 1,
Security 4, Stealth 4, Knowledges: Academics 3 (Asian History), Investigation 3, Law 2, Occult 2, Politics 2
Disciplines: Obfuscate 5, Animalism 3, Potence 3, Celerity 1
Backgrounds: Contacts 4, Resources 4, Status 3
Ferret, 9th Generation Nosferatu
Background: Ferret is what is called a Cleopatra among Nosferatu. For those unfamiliar with the ugly ones’ slang, it is a good-looking person, Embraced to
destroy his beauty. These unfortunates must come to terms with their new state – or perish. It seemed like Ferret had done so, and that he’d overcome his
hatred for his Sire. Yet such things can deceive. Although he hid his resentment beneath layers upon layers of deception, it kept smoldering.
Over the years the leash Ser Piero kept on Ferret became longer and longer, until one day the Cleopatra did not return. Nowhere was he to find. For decades
the young kindred struggled to gain the means of revenge against his Sire, performing deeds considered heinous in Cainite circles.
Now it seems like the time for his revenge has come – and for this reason he has returned to his Sire’s side.
Appearance: From the viewpoint of most, all Nosferatu hurt the eye. Yet Ferret is unlucky in this regard even among the brethren of his Clan. Ferret’s most
obvious deformity is his mouth. Although he does sport the fangs associated with the Curse, he has a problem when it comes to feeding. His lips have grown
together in three places – nothing which seriously impedes speech, but these strands of flesh keeps him from feeding in the most usual manner of Cainites.
Roleplaying Hints: Publicly submissive – even to the point of sniveling – Ferret is a creature of great pride. Wrong him and he’ll never forget you. The whole of
his existence since the night of his Embrace have been centered on revenge, something which he will pursue with a malicious cunning.
Haven: the sewers of Shanghai.
Secrets: Unknown to all but Ser Piero – to whom it is painfully obvious - is the fact that Ferret is a diablerist. In the years since his Embrace, Ferret has
indulged in this practice more than once, and his blood has grown increasingly stronger. However, Ser Piero will never be able to reveal this knowledge, as he
is heavily dominated by Ferret the puppeteer.
Influence: Through Ser Piero, Ferret is able to make the Nosferatu present in Shanghai do almost anything.
Clan: Nosferatu, Sire: Ser Piero, Nature: Rogue, Demeanor: Loner, Generation: 11th, Embrace: 1837, Apparent Age: indiscernible
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 3, Athletics 2, Brawl 3, Dodge 3, Empathy 2, Intimidation 3, Streetwise 3, Subterfuge 3, Skills: Drive 1, Firearms 1, Melee 2,
Stealth 3, Knowledges: Academics 2, Computer 1, Investigation 2, Linguistics 3, Occult 1, Politics 2.
Disciplines: Obfuscate 4, Animalism 2, Potence 3, Dominate 3
Backgrounds: Contacts 3, Resources 2, Status 1
Adrian Goldman, 12th Generation Childe of Paul Murphy
Background: Adrian Goldman lived a normal life in London, but his life changed with the explosion of the Disco Era. The glittering, bright lights and the heavy
drug use took his life over and he caroused in the clubs almost every night. Losing contact with his surroundings through blow and dope, he lost his job and
any connection he had to his family. Then he met Paul.
Inseparable for months, they eventually became lovers. Their emotions were connected on a level of which no one else had ever reached and Adrian became
obsessed once again. He followed Paul back to his Haven and discovered his dark secret. Adrian didn’t freak out, however, but instead begged to join Paul in
everlasting life. Paul agreed and Embraced the love of his life, hoping to feel the pleasure of his touch forever, but the Beast was strong within Adrian. After
being Embraced, he awoke to find Paul’s lifeless corpse before him. He would learn later that he diablerized Paul.
Adrian never seems to get a break in his unlife. He gave up his old life as an accountant and dived into his hobby, piano. Being a musician allows him to work
nights and acquire vessels with ease. This career choice has brought him to Shanghai, where he has performed for many prominent members of the
communist government, the Camarilla and even a Cathayan or two.
To show respect to Paul’s memory, he does not feed from the unwilling and keeps his sire’s necklace with him constantly. He also has begun to work for the
community centers and clean up crews, but stays in the background as not to directly interfere with any of his fellow Kindred’s plans. He is not scared of the
other Kindred, as he takes pains to follow the Traditions, but finds the social calamity that follows interactions to be a bore and does not prove to be worth it in
the end. He has no stake in the local Camarilla, but would gladly lend a hand if asked. He is seen well in the eyes of the conservative members, but is
considered weak by most of the others.
Appearance: An nice-looking Caucasian man, Adrian stands tall and proud of himself and his choices. His skin is flushed and he appears mostly human with
his long brown hair with sideburns (left over from the 70s). He has green eyes, but avoids too flashy clothes these days. He only gets truly wild for Halloween.
It’s a shame the locals don’t celebrate the holiday.
Roleplaying Hints: You are a man who regrets his past. Today, you make your unlife better, by helping those who need help and by bringing happiness
through music to the people. You are a confident person, who uses his head in all decisions, but you are always worried about your status in the Camarilla, the
eyes of the Kuei-jin and the constant war that seems to go on around. You are a performer first and the choice will be hard if it gets to all out war with the
Cathay.
Haven: A small cramped apartment just north of the Old City with a few of his music friends.
Secrets: Adrian does not delve to deep into the affairs of the shen, using his contacts to do good things in Shanghai, instead of the simple manipulation of the
mortal population.
Influence: none
Clan: Toreador, Sire: Paul Murphy, Nature: Penitent, Demeanor: Caregiver, Generation: 12th, Embrace: 1975, Apparent Age: Early 30s
Abilties: Talents: Alertness 2, Brawl 1, Dodge 4, Empathy 3, Streetwise 1, Subterfuge 1, Skills: Animal Ken 2, Drive 1, Etiquette 1, Firearms 2, Performance
4, Survival 1, Knowledges: Academics 3 (Music), Computer 2, Investigation 1, Linguistics 4, Occult 1, Politics 4
Disciplines: Presence 3, Celerity 3, Auspex 2, Potence 1
Backgrounds: Allies 3, Contacts 4, Fame 1, Herd 4, Resources 2, Status 1

Chance, 14th Generation Thin-Blood
Background: Chance received her name because of her variety of singing styles, genres and performances. At the age of 21, the young Shanghai Opera
singer, Jiao Nui was in a train crash that left her blind. For years she continued to sing, but the accident left her with a severe case of stage fright after her
recovery from her other physical wounds.
To free herself of this, she decided to admit herself into the Shanghai Hospital’s Experimental Medicine department, hoping that they could cure her eyesight
and her self-esteem. But one night before her big operation, the entire emergency ward was engulfed in a mass Embrace that the few Sabbat in town
performed. Nui never saw her sire, but heard him cry as he drained her blood, as if he was remorseful. She realizes now that she was nothing but a pity-
Embrace. Her sire did not want to see her die, for some reason or another. Representatives from the Camarilla came into the hospital to dispose of all the
bastard Childes, forcing Chance to hide. She hid from the world for 3 years, masquerading as a homeless woman, until she realized that no one cared if she
existed anymore.
She has emerged and has begun to regain her composure with help of Adrian Goldman. He found her and helped her to her feet, in the real and undead
worlds. While she is not recognized by the local Camarilla, she is Adrian’s companion, which puts her in the Camarilla’s sights. She has adopted her stage
name Chance once again, but uses it as her real name as well now. She has begun singing again as well, but still has not gotten over her stage fright fully, so
is still awkward on stage.
Appearance: Chance stands as a petite Chinese girl, with short black hair and green eyes. There are scars around her eyes, which sometimes make others
uncomfortable, so she is seen wearing sunglasses usually. Although she has a nice body, she rarely shows it off. After all, when the tax collectors came to her
childhood village, displaying wealth was taboo. Touching people and getting their germs is a whole other story.
Roleplaying Hints: You appear shy and composed to the outside, which reflect exactly the way you are inside as well. You have reluctantly accepted to the
help of Adrian Goldman, but you fear the rest of the Camarilla. The purge of the hospital was surprising at best and frightening at worst, yet you feel safe
around your new companion. You speak very seldom. Your first love is singing, and now you are able to overcome your stage fright, since you can’t see the
crowd anymore.
Haven: She stays in the basement of the Shanghai General Hospital, in one of the many long forgotten storage areas.
Secrets: With her keen Insight, she has run across several of the inside plots of the Camarilla. Fukayna is plotting against Lothario, Lothario against his
master, and the puppet Ser Piero against them all. It will be quite interesting to see the outcome.
Influence: none
Clan: Caitiff, Sire: unknown, Nature: Loner, Demeanor: Pedagogue, Generation: 14th, Embrace: 2000, Apparent Age: Early-20s
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 3, Dodge 3, Empathy 2, Expression 2, Performance 3, Subterfuge 4, Skills: Animal Ken 1, Etiquette 2, Melee 3, Performance 3,
Stealth 2, Knowledges: Academics 3 (Medicine), Linguistics 2, Occult 2, Science 3
Disciplines: Auspex 2, Dementation 1, Fortitude 1
Backgrounds: Allies 2, Herd 2, Insight 4, Resources 1
The Sabbat
Miguel, Ductus of the Avenging Razors, 9th Generation Childe of Adonai
Background: The past is an empty thing to Miguel, his first memories being the ecstasy of being drained of all his blood by his sire, Adonai, in a dark place
somewhere near the Autonomous National University of Mexico. Miguel can only guess that he was a student there. When Miguel demanded his past be
divulged, Adonai simply looked at him with wrath in his eyes. Miguel, terribly loyal to his sire and wishing not to beckon his wrath, soon stopped asking.
Forgetting about his past, he pressed forward, focusing on the matters of the Salubri.
Miguel got his name from the angel necklace he carries, his only link to his true self and his past. Miguel worked diligently to please his sire, to obtain a word of
praise from the bloodline founder. He has been mentioned two times for his good services to the Salubri antitribu by Adonai in the special ceremony during the
Palla Grande, but although he is recognized for his great deeds, he has always felt that he should do more. He entered the pit fights in North America just for
that, trying to satisfy that need of doing more, rightfully obtaining a measure of recognition for both him as his pack as fearless and capable.
After returning to Mexico for a while, Miguel was charged by Adonai with his current mission. Proud of his sire’s trust, Miguel called on his pack again and
traveled first to Nanjing and then to Shanghai. He didn’t trust Baloh, but he also could not afford avoiding the Lasombra, as his knowledge and contacts could
turn necessary at any moment.
Now, the taste of defeat isn’t easy for Miguel. His former priest Jacob’s death has affected him more than he wants to say, and Miguel blames himself for his
pack mate’s demise. He has promised that no other member of the pack will meet Final Death under his leadership.
The Camarilla knows little of Miguel, except that he is a whirlwind of death and vitae.
Description: Miguel has cruelly short copper hair, and his brown eyes bear fanaticism. He has an athletic build, the result of a decade of fighting the Salubri
enemies. He wears an armored trench coat over his trousers, which is difficult to confound with anything but his well-kept bastard sword. Underneath, he wears
very used jeans and a ragged shirt, giving him the aspect of a homeless person. Or any number of heavies from Highlander. He normally makes no attempt to
hide his third eye, but in Shanghai, he has found that doing so is quite necessary.
Roleplaying Hints: Simply put, you are a warrior. You must serve your clan interests here in Shanghai, to please Adonai at any costs. You also have to protect
the remaining members of your pack from further harm. Most people believe you’re a brainless fanatic. Let them think so. You know the truth. In fact, you want
nothing but the approval of your sire, pack mates, and brothers in the Sword of Caine, but you will never admit that.
Secrets: The only secret Miguel has is a terrible envy of anyone who seems to please Adonai more than himself, including the first Embraced child of Adonai.
The rest of the secrets that he could have were erased when he lost, along with his past.
Influence: Although he is well known in Mexico and has several allies there, Miguel has no presence in Shanghai beyond the edge of his blade.
Haven: A cramped apartment, shared with his pack in the Huangpu District, the slums.
Clan: Salubri antitribu, Sire: Adonai, Nature: Fanatic, Demeanor: Fanatic, Generation: 9th, Embrace: At the beginning of the ‘90, Apparent Age: around 30
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 3, Athletics 2, Brawl 2, Dodge 2, Empathy 1, Expression 1, Intimidation 2, Leadership 2, Streetwise 1., Skills: Firearms 2, Melee
4, Security 1, Stealth 2, Survival 1, Knowledges: Investigation 1, Linguistics 2, Occult 1 Camarilla Lore 2
Backgrounds: Resources 2, Contacts (Mexican Sabbat) 2, Mentor 3, Sabbat status 2.
Disciplines: Valeren 5, Fortitude 2, Potence 1
Virtues: Conscience 2, Self-control 3, Courage 4, Path of Honorable Accord: 6, Willpower: 7
Esther Maria Perez, Priest of the Avenging Razors, 12th Generation Childe of Carlos Tortosa
Background: Esther was the daughter of two Mexican corn farmers, but was never rich. But a decade of crop failures drove her family to el Norte’ to seek
other opportunities.
Esther’s parents floundered in the ‘land of opportunity’, working for a quarter of what locals made. At ten, Esther left school to join her parents and it was late at
night in the shantytown that she met the strange woman that secretly attended to the health problems of the Mexicans. Her aunts and uncles called the woman
a witch, but Esther became fascinated by the old woman, called “Old Wise”, and soon became her student in Santeria. A year and a day passed quickly, but on
Esther’s seventeenth birthday, Old Wise skipped town, abandoning the immigrants to unknown whereabouts.
A few nights later, the authorities arrived asking questions about the strange woman, claiming she was a wanted criminal and anyone associated with her would
likewise be so. Esther knew that the village would single her out if the shadowy agents talked even slightly of deportation. Running away was the only solution
that made sense, but where could she go? Buying the first bus ticket she could get her hands on, Esther left without even saying goodbye to her parents. She
would never see them again.
The frightened girl made it to Atlanta, where she worked as a street performer. She knew enough about sleight of hand to impress the people that saw her
performed in the park. This life could have given way to a successful job as a stage magician, but then she met him
James Donaldson, a Tremere from Atlanta’s Chantry, perceived potential in the young busker. He took her off of the streets, into his own home, and, to Esther’s
surprise, he wasn’t interested in bringing her to his bed. Esther was pretty, but was more like a daughter than like a lover to him. She became even more
surprised when the man knew a few secrets of the Loa, and a year later that she began drinking blood from her new dominator.
Donaldson kept Esther as a servant, using her innate magical talent to his benefit, never planning on gifting her with the Embrace. After ten years as a ghoul,
she knew her dormitor well enough to figure out the truth. She became obsessed with regaining her lost freedom, trying her best to escape, yet she could not
evade the power of the strong blood bond placed on her, driving her into deep desperation. Then, fate stepped in.
James and Esther were suddenly captured and imprisoned by an ancient Tzimisce who “gave” Esther to his pack mate as a gift to do with as he pleased. The
possibility that Carlos Tortosa, the Salubri antitribu to whom she was offered, would fall in love with her was ridiculous. But it happened and he Embraced the
arch-enemy’s ghoul.
Esther performed marvelously for a new recruit, as her knowledge of Atlanta’s Chantry aided in its destruction at the hands of the Sabbat. She showed her
certain deep hatred for the Tremere during the assault, fighting as a half-mad berserker against her former masters. So deep was her hatred that she was
accepted on the spot in battle as True Sabbat. Unfortunately, Carlos didn’t survive his duel with the Brujah archon visiting the city in the moment of the attack,
but that didn’t worry Esther. She felt freedom for the first time in a decade, being no longer “owned” by James or owing anything to a sire.
Now, as the recently appointed Priest of the Avenging Razors pack, she hopes that both Miguel and Robert will start looking her as what she is, and not as a
former Tremere flunky .
Description: Esther is a young, gamine Mexican woman in her early twenties. She has long black hair, normally carried in a ponytail. She dresses in track suits
for freedom of movement. The clothes have been lightly reinforced to give her a measure of protection, as Miguel doesn’t want to have any more casualties in
the pack. She stands at 5’ 4’’and has a light complexion.
Roleplaying Hints: You have been always under the protection of someone. First it was your parents, then the old woman, James, Carlos and now your pack.
You are unsure of your fitness to survive alone, but you know that you are more than capable of being a good Priest to the pack. Perhaps Miguel and Robert
don’t trust you, but they are your family now. It doesn’t matters how you feel about your family; you must protect them to the end.
Secrets: Esther has never spoken about Old Wise, who initiated her in the occult, and her pack mates believe the Tremere directly instructed her. Also, she has
hidden her knowledge of Thaumaturgy from all, fearing that she will be trusted even less if it’s known.
Influence: None.
Haven: Huangpu District, the slums, with her pack mates.
Clan: Salubri antitribu, Sire: Carlos Tortosa, Nature: Caregiver, Demeanor: Follower, Generation: 12th, Embrace: 1997, Apparent Age: 20
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 2, Dodge 1, Empathy 2, Subterfuge 2, Streetwise 1, Skills: Firearms 2, Melee 1, Stealth 1, Survival 2, Knowledges: Academics
1, Investigation 2, Linguistics 2, Medicine 2, Occult 3
Backgrounds: Resources 1, Rites 2
Disciplines: Auspex 2, Valeren 1, Fortitude 1, Thaumaturgy 1 (Path of Blood 1)
Virtues: Conscience 3, Self-Control 2 Courage 3, Humanity: 5, Willpower: 5
Tian Wan-Jin, Ductus of the Hidden Lotus, 10th Generation Childe of Javier
Background: Tian Wan-Jin grew up in the slums of Shanghai at the end of the 19th century. Somehow, she survived her childhood, with a combination of luck,
ruthlessness and wits. With all her intelligence and luck, she worked in a Hong Kong brothel and survived the fate of many of her co-workers: disease, angry
clients, or other calamities. Perhaps it was luck that Javier and his friends chose that brothel to have “a little party”, one that would bring Tian Wan-Jin her
liberation.
As the Lasombra antitribu fed from the various costumers and workers, she came face to face with Javier. The Spanish Lasombra tried to scare his prey, and
was surprised that the small woman before him not only wasn’t scared, but also fought back, screaming obscenities all the way. Javier was amused enough to
turn her into his ghoul, using her to obtain information of her interests in the city. Tian Wan-Yin served her dominator dutifully, making her his favorite servant.
He eventually brought her to his base of operations in Nanjing with him to use her talents in something “more useful”.
After several decades serving as a Ghoul, Javier decided to Embrace her, gifting her with eternal life. She was practically a neonate when Baloh started his
revolution, with his attack on his sire’s brood. In the initial attack, Wan-Jin’s sire was destroyed. Free of the blood bond for the first time in decades, she quickly
joined the Sabbat, forming her own pack with several others Cainites. She took residence in Nanjing, which seemed safe enough compared to the other Asian
territories.
The decades slowly passed, and Wan-Jin ascended both in Baloh's opinion and in her own pack. But, around the 1950s, she was the only survivor of the
original pack, and finally took command of a new pack as Ductus. Under her command, the Hidden Lotus has become one of the most successful packs in all
the Middle Kingdom, if not the most. Tian Wan-Yin seems to be able to put her pack out of harm’s way most of the time, allowing them to have survived until
now, although in the end.
That suits her just fine.
Now, Wan-Jin knows that she hadn’t survived all this time taking missions like this one, but she has no option but obey Baloh’s commands. That doesn’t mean
that she is going to take all the risks. The Avenging Razors are the ones that want to take these risks, right?
Description: By modern standards, Wan-Jin is almost a midget. She has green eyes, with a spark of intelligence in them, and short, black hair. She dresses as
a middle class Chinese woman, trying to pass as unnoticed as possible. Her apparent genial personality draws favor from those around her. At least until she
decides to kill them.
Roleplaying Hints: You always try to be everyone’s friend, at least in the surface, acting more like a mother than as a leader to your pack, showing them
affection and love. However, you only care about yourself, and don’t mind a damn about any other person in the planet. You will be able to do anything to
secure your own survival, even turning against your pack. You respect Baloh, and probably wouldn’t betray him, but you will be able to sell any other, including
the Sabbat, in order to assure your own survival.
Haven: Basement in the port of the city.
Secrets: Tian Wan-Jin has found she barely feels the pulling the Vaulderie commands over the Blood. She has no clue why. She also knows several shen in
Shanghai, having numerous secret pacts. She knows the refuge of the Salubri antitribu, and also where to search for several Sabbat in the Middle Kingdom,
including all Nanjing Lasombra. Unknown to her, the place she thinks is Baloh’s refuge is only a decoy, as Baloh knows that he can trust Wan-Yin only to a
point.
Influence: She has several contacts in the ports of Shanghai, mostly among the workers there. She would be able to delay for some time the arrival of anything
to Shanghai. The recent storms have lessened her grip here, however. She also has strong ties to the underground community of Nanjing.
Clan: Lasombra, Sire: Javier, Nature: Survivor, Demeanor: Caregiver, Generation: 10th, Embrace: 1880, Apparent Age: 28
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 2, Brawl 3, Dodge 2, Empathy 3, Expression 3, Intimidation 1, Leadership 2, Streetwise 4, Subterfuge 4, Skills: Etiquette 1,
Firearms 2, Performance 2, Security 2, Stealth 2, Survival 3, Knowledges: Academics 1, Investigation 2, Linguistics 2, Occult 3
Disciplines: Obtenebration 4, Dominate 3, Potence 2, Obfuscate 2
Backgrounds: Contacts 3, Influence 2(only one out of Nanjing), Sabbat status 1, Resources 3, Herd 1
Giovanni
Antonio della Passaglia, 8th Generation Childe of Carlos Montega della Passaglia
Background: Born into the della Passaglia family in the early years of the Giovanni conversion, Antonio was raised under a watchful eye. Taught the theories
of Necromancy at an early age, steeped in Chinese culture and lore, and raised to be a leader, he has in all ways but one turned out perfectly.
That one small flaw, however, could very well be the downfall of the entire della Passaglia family. In his centuries in Shanghai, Antonio has come to relate more
closely with the native culture and mind-set than that of his own family. Living in China, speaking only Chinese, folding the culture around himself as a shield; he
has lost his identity as a della Passaglia and Giovanni, seeing them as rude, uncouth barbarians with no manners or subtlety when he is forced into contact with
them.
Unfortunately, a lifetime of indoctrination has also left him with a strong sense of loyalty and duty, and the conflict of these two personas within him is beginning
to interfere with his role as liaison to the Quincunx…and it couldn’t come at a worse time.
Though generally well thought of (in a retarded little brother kind of way) by many of Shanghai’s elder Quincunx members, Antonio is still a Kin-Jin, and as
such, never an equal. As aware of this as he is, Antonio has spent centuries setting up favors and boons with many members of the court, from the top down.
Most are small boons, but he has the majority of Shanghai’s Wan Kuei in his debt. It has been his ultimate goal to gently call in the favors when the family most
needs them.
That time is now, but Antonio’s indecisiveness and inner turmoil has him blinded to the family’s dire straits and he is unwilling to risk all he has built up merely
because a couple of rude ‘cousins’ are claiming the Giovanni Clan may well wipe the della Passaglia clean away soon. Rationalizing away these claims as
exaggerations and impatience, he pulls away from the family, while at the same time distancing himself from his Wan Kuei contacts in an effort to protect their
anonymity, an act which only causes suspicion amongst his ‘allies’.
Now, in the midst of a possible purge of the della Passaglia family, Antonio’s contacts may be their ticket to asylum in the Chinese courts. However, Antonio has
become so erratic he may very well destroy all that he has spent his unlife building.
Description: A small, wiry and distinguished looking Portuguese male, who could be anywhere from late 20s to mid-30s from his appearance. He has an
attractive face, despite the crooked and rotting teeth and his hair is shoulder length, usually worn back. He affects glasses similar to those worn by Mao Tse-
Tung, and dresses conservatively in business suits. When on business of any sort, he dresses in the manner of Chinese court politicians in the late 19th
Century, often at home as well.
Roleplaying Notes: Speak quietly, be subtle, polite, attentive and above all, Chinese. You have barely spoken Portuguese, Spanish, English or Dutch in the
past seventy-five years, communicating almost exclusively in Cantonese, Shanghainese and Mandarin. You are above all things, loyal to your family, no matter
how rude or over-reactive they may be. But YOU, not they, have spent almost 200 years building up a network of contacts and allies in Shanghai, and Caine be
damned if they are going to co-opt your precious network until you are convinced the reason is vital enough to risk all that you have striven for. When in
conversation with a ‘Westerner’ be polite, cryptic and a touch condescending, but when conversing with a native of the Middle Kingdom, be polite, jovial and
agreeable.
Haven: Just north of the People’s Square, where he likes to sit and watch his “true” people at play.
Secrets: Sadly, he is shut out of both worlds he tries so hard to belong to. He wields very little control.
Influence: Anything Giovanni related is within his realm of influence. He also can call upon certain favors if needed.
Clan: Giovanni, Sire: Carlos Montega della Passaglia, Nature: Soldier, Demeanor: Caregiver, Generation: 8th, Embrace: 1801, Apparent Age: Mid-20s to
mid-30s
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 3, Athletics 2, Brawl 1, Dodge 2, Empathy 4, Expression 4, Intimidation 3, Leadership 4, Subterfuge 5, Streetwise 1, Skills:
Animal-Ken 1, Crafts 2, Etiquette 5, Firearms 1, Melee 1, Performance 3 , Knowledges: Academics 4 (Chinese Mythology), Finance 3, Investigation 4, Law 3,
Linguistics 5, Medicine 3, Occult 4, Politics 4
Disciplines: Necromancy 4 (Ash Path 4, Sepulchre Path 1), Presence 3, Dominate 3, Auspex 2, Fortitude 2
Backgrounds: Allies 4, Contacts 5, Resources 3, Retainers 2
Matsugane Yuki, 9th Generation Childe of Antonio della Passaglia

Background: In the early forties, when Japan invaded and the gaki poured into Shanghai, Antonio quickly pulled back out of sight, retreating into the shadows.
He funded his Blood Court allies in their shadow wars, as he deemed them the stronger force; this was after all their home ground.
But by the early sixties, it had become obvious that the gaki were not going to be as easy to get rid of, and Antonio’s presence had become known to the
Japanese Vampires, compromising his position as an ally to the locals. Acting swiftly, if naively, Antonio traveled to Tokyo and selected an intelligent, beautiful,
young Japanese student who specialized in linguistics, Masahiro Yuki.
His intention was to produce a neutral player on the field, someone who could act as a go-between from Wan Kuei to gaki. This was the first time he offended
his Quincunx hosts, and nearly earned his own Final Death. So offended was the gaki leader that he sent assassins to find and destroy this Kin-jin bastard.
Were it not for Antonio’s unanticipated foreign Discipline of Dominate and Alexei’s martial skills, there would be nothing more of Antonio to speak of.
But survive he did, and return to his regular position as an ally to the courts of the Quincunx, but now he had a fledgling of no use in his household.
Now, almost a half-century later, Yuki still survives, although she is aware that her purpose in her Sire’s goals no longer exists, and that any moment, he may
decide that her destruction would further his plans. So every time a member of the della Passaglia or Giovanni family visits, she tells them everything she
knows, believing they may view her as an asset.
Description: A delicate and beautiful young Japanese woman from Kanazawa prefecture, she has adopted the style and mannerisms of the modern age, in
defiance of her Sire’s preference for tradition. She walks with determination, dresses as sexily and scandalously as she can, and knocks men dead in their
steps. In recent nights, she had adopted the ‘ganguro’ fashion of Japan, but she has grown tired of it. She recently saw ‘Kill Bill’ and has acquired a collection
of Japanese school uniforms, inspired by Tarentino’s vision.
Roleplaying Notes: Be forthright, blunt and outspoken. Condescend to those who cannot live in the modern world. Use modern slang, and never back down
from anyone, except Alexei or Antonio. Yuki knows she is gorgeous and delights in getting gifts from admirers, be they male or female. Outwardly you are
confident and brash, a child of the modern era, but inwardly you are terrified that your existence is but an oversight on Antonio’s part.
Haven: The French Concession houses the lovely Yuki, mostly due to the vast information she can gather to seem important and partly to be as far from her
Sire as possible. Maybe one day he will forget she exists at all.
Secrets: She is not privy to any secret of the Giovanni, but has sensed a new type of Feng Shui in the area. It stinks of the Tremere.
Influence: none.
Clan: Giovanni, Sire: Antonio della Passaglia, Nature: Conniver, Demeanor: Bravo, Generation: 9th, Embrace: 1964, Apparent Age: Early 20s
Abilities: Talents: Athletics 1, Dodge 2, Empathy 2, Subterfuge 2, Streetwise 1, Skills: Etiquette 3, Firearms 1, Performance 2, Stealth 1, Knowledges:
Academics 2, Computer 2, Finance 1, Investigation 2, Law 1, Linguistics 4, Occult 1, Politics 2, Science 1
Disciplines: Dominate 2, Presence 2, Potence 1, Necromancy 1 (Ash Path 1), Feng Shui 1
Backgrounds: Allies 1, Contacts 2, Herd 3
Alexei Yuri Manachekov, 9th Generation Childe of Antonio della Passaglia
Background: Russia in the mid-1800s was a good time to be a noble, and Alexei was a favored son of a rich noble who grew fat off the abuse of his peasants.
Alexei was raised in the manner befitting his rank. He rode horses, learned to fight with fist, foot, sword and rifle. He spoke English, Dutch, Russian, Mandarin,
and Spanish. He could read and write in Latin, do numbers in his head and pilot a ship by starlight. He was also taught to treat those lesser than him as dirt, to
brook no disrespect and to command absolute authority when necessary.
Alexei was everything that a Russian noble could be; he was also the fifth son of the family and not entitled to anything more than to be married off to increase
his eldest brothers’ coffers. Of the two options available to him to avoid this fate – become a priest or a sailor – Alexei’s love of debauchery and excitement
ruled out the Church. He joined a Chinese trader ship and set south to make his money off of Opium and Chinese Silks and gold.
As a privateer, the young man excelled, taking over the Tzar Nicholas by the time he was in his early twenties. The life of a privateer suited Alexei’s
temperament ideally, and he crossed blades and rifles with Chinese pirates, English buccaneers, Dutch traders, Spanish galleons and more.
In many ways, he was the ideal for Antonio’s first Embrace; a talented warrior, intelligent, crafty, ruthless and well-versed in the ways of negotiating with the
Chinese. Alexei is the only real black mark on Antonio’s image with his family, however. To Embrace outside of the family and without permission are forbidden,
yet none could argue with Alexei’s skills or loyalty to Antonio.
Since his Embrace, Alexei has served loyally, never questioning orders, seemingly content to remain an aide to the staid and traditionalistic Giovanni Elder. Yet,
Alexei himself is now nearing a century and a half as Kindred, and inside, he grates at his Sire’s orders, longing to prove his worth to the family and earn
himself a place of respect, as befitting a Boyar.
Description: Alexei is not a large man, nor is he particularly outstanding in anyway. Short cut black wavy hair that is graying at the temples, a craggy, weather-
beaten face with a crooked nose and a few missing teeth. His eyes are a pale blue, and his face has a trimmed goatee beard. Broad of shoulder and rangy,
those who look closely will note hundreds of small scars and the remnants of a brief bout with the Pox scar his neck and shoulders. In this day and age, Alexei
has adopted the clothing of a westernized biker, black leathers, dark clothing and drives a custom Harley Davidson that is his pride and joy.
Roleplaying Notes: You were bred to fight and born to lead, swift to act and no stranger to neither violence nor brutality, you know there is a time and place for
everything and can be as patient as a spider when you feel it is in your best interests. Don’t hesitate to play submissive. After all, subterfuge is as much a tactic
of war as intimidation, a lesson you learned well when you studied the Communist uprising in Russia, and later in China.
That said, when you are amongst mortals, you KNOW you are bigger, badder and better. So, take no shit from anyone, after all, it’s a dog eat dog world, and
you are a wolf surrounded by Shi-tzus.
Haven: North of the People’s Square with his Sire.
Secrets: A constant bodyguard to his Antonio, he is privy to just about everything. But he will never let those words leave his lips.
Influence: Kindred in the city have run across Alexei and have found out that he is nothing to fool around with. While he does not rule over any of them, the
respect from fear he receives is worth it.
Clan: Giovanni, Sire: Antonio della Passaglia, Nature: Bravo, Demeanor: Follower/Bravo, Generation: 9th, Embrace: 1874, Apparent Age: Mid to late 40s
Abilities: Talents: Alertness 4, Athletics 3, Brawl 4, Dodge 4, Empathy 2, Intimidation 3, Leadership 2, Streetwise 2, Subterfuge 2 , Skills: Crafts 1, Firearms 4,
Melee 5, Repair 2, Stealth 3, Survival 2, Knowledges: Investigation 1, Linguistics 4, Medicine 1, Occult 1
Disciplines: Potence 4, Fortitude 3, Celerity 2, Dominate 1
Backgrounds: Contacts 3, Herd 2, Influence 1, Resources 2, Retainers 1
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Home (https://web.archive.org/web/20101230113427/http://www.nocturnis.net/) | Archives (/web/20101230113427/http://www.nocturnis.

Shanghai - Chapter Five: Within and Without

by Eloy Lasanta (https://web.archive.org/web/20101230113427/mailto:kendril1@gmail.com) and Chris "WiGGy" Brown

"...and the Tre… er, Warlocks?"

"Don't let them stand in your way."

The Camarilla in Shanghai

Feng Shui in the Chantry

Toreador, Brujah, Malkavians and the Thin-Blooded

The French Concession

The Inner Circle

The Sabbat in Shanghai

A Look at the Past

The Avenging Razors, Salubri antitribu pack

The Hidden Lotus, Nanjing pack

Mausoleum and Court, Owl and Hare (Giovanni)

A Look at Their Past

Shanghai in the Eyes of the Dead

Andrei Rubachevsky Speaks.

Kin-jin of Note (NPCs)

Haven: Heike’s haven lies in the French Concession, as a simple apartment.

Backgrounds: Allies 2, Contacts 1, Herd 1, Resources 4, Status 4

Virtues: Conscience 3, Self-Control 5, Courage 5, Humanity: 6, Willpower: 8

Gu’er (Ghouled Dog)

Attributes: Strength 4, Dexterity 3, Stamina 3

Willpower: 5, Health Levels: OK, -1, -1, -2, -2, -5

Attack: Bite for five dice; claw for four

Abilities: Alertness 3, Athletics 2, Brawl 3, Dodge 3, Empathy 2, Intimidation 3, Stealth 2

Disciplines: Potence 1, Fortitude 1

Backgrounds: Contacts 2, Influence 2, Mentor 4 (Heike), Resources 3

Virtues: Conscience 3, Self-Control 2, Courage 5, Humanity: 5, Willpower: 7

Fukayna, 11th Generation Childe of Marcus de Valmont

Backgrounds: Allies 1, Contacts 2, Herd 2, Resources 3, Status 3

Virtues: Conscience 2, Self-Control 4, Courage 5, Humanity: 6, Willpower: 7

Ser Piero, 10th Generation Nosferatu Elder

Disciplines: Obfuscate 5, Animalism 3, Potence 3, Celerity 1

Backgrounds: Contacts 4, Resources 4, Status 3

Virtues: Conscience 2, Self-Control 5, Courage 4, Humanity: 6, Willpower: 8

Ferret, 9th Generation Nosferatu

Haven: the sewers of Shanghai.

Disciplines: Obfuscate 4, Animalism 2, Potence 3, Dominate 3

Backgrounds: Contacts 3, Resources 2, Status 1

Virtues: Conscience 2, Self-Control 4, Courage 3, Humanity: 5, Willpower: 7

Adrian Goldman, 12th Generation Childe of Paul Murphy

Disciplines: Presence 3, Celerity 3, Auspex 2, Potence 1

Backgrounds: Allies 3, Contacts 4, Fame 1, Herd 4, Resources 2, Status 1

Chance, 14th Generation Thin-Blood

Disciplines: Auspex 2, Dementation 1, Fortitude 1

Backgrounds: Allies 2, Herd 2, Insight 4, Resources 1

Virtues: Conscience 3, Self-Control 5, Courage 2, Humanity: 7, Willpower: 7

Miguel, Ductus of the Avenging Razors, 9th Generation Childe of Adonai

Backgrounds: Resources 2, Contacts (Mexican Sabbat) 2, Mentor 3, Sabbat status 2.

Disciplines: Valeren 5, Fortitude 2, Potence 1

Virtues: Conscience 2, Self-control 3, Courage 4, Path of Honorable Accord: 6, Willpower: 7

Haven: Huangpu District, the slums, with her pack mates.

Backgrounds: Resources 1, Rites 2

Disciplines: Auspex 2, Valeren 1, Fortitude 1, Thaumaturgy 1 (Path of Blood 1)

Virtues: Conscience 3, Self-Control 2 Courage 3, Humanity: 5, Willpower: 5

That suits her just fine.

Haven: Basement in the port of the city.

Disciplines: Obtenebration 4, Dominate 3, Potence 2, Obfuscate 2

Virtues: Conscience 1, Self-Control 3, Courage 3, Humanity: 4, Willpower: 7

Backgrounds: Allies 4, Contacts 5, Resources 3, Retainers 2

Virtues: Conscience 2, Self-Control 4, Courage 2, Humanity: 5, Willpower: 8