Photographic Reference - Cordoba II

Ferdinand III of Castile-Leion 1199-1252



Alfonso X of Castile-Leon 1221-1284



The Royal Coat of Arms of Catile-Leon



The Church of St. Marina Cordoba



The Church of St. Lorenzo Cordoba



Fortified Tower at the end of the Roman Bridge in Cordoba



A 10th Cenury Moorish Water Wheel near Cordoba

Convivencia - Cordoba Winter 1236/1237

Extracts from the Journal of Subject Gaius Menas Pelagius of the Obertus

Extract 98-100

My Dearest Anna,
I hope this letter finds you in good health. While it has only been a few short years since we last met and talked with one another I do miss your presence rather sharply. As you may have heard times in Cordova are rather hard, the experience of being Christians within a hostile population has opened my eyes to a lot of truths about the difficulty of missionary work and my current attempts at preaching have also informed me of the relative stupidity of the mortal populace at times. My experiences here have also shown me once again that even supposedly righteous men can perform actions of great evil and ill, I do my best to protect those even of the more heathen religions from those evils, and to work within the community to provide food and shelter for those whose homes were destroyed in the recent uprising. Sometimes I begin to feel that maybe Xavier has a point, but these moments are fleeting, after all Xavier Hugo when he rests from the sun does not see what I see. I know for a fact that Perdition is real, I know that my sins will be punished unless I find a way to avoid being dragged into that foul pit, it is this that gives me the strength to know that I must rise beyond my past sins and beg the lords forgiveness, that I must work within the world as best I can.
The assaults upon the abbey here continue, I hope that you are having better luck than I am in Carcassone. How goes the expansion into the surrounding towns and Villages? I've had to recruit guards these last few months, and I've been had to develop a couple of warhounds and some warghouls of my own, Oh, if they could see me now, sometimes I worry that I'm morphing into one of my Carpathian brethren. Currently I feel that the only way I'm going to discover the truth behind these attacks will be meeting with the Assamites as has been suggested, I have heard that there are sorcerers among their number that could be responsible and I will be enquiring soon if other places of worship have been suffering similar assaults. I still suspect that Victor Nage may be responsible, those damnable Tremere are almost always behind the matter somewhere, and I will have to begin asking people who brings in the coin that Alias saw him using, I am hesitant however to use information gleaned through peoples minds as evidence as I have learned before this can be easily altered as necessary, if matters continue I may have to beg the Nosferatu a favour on the matter.
Recently Anna I have been having dreams, dreams of walking under the sun and not being burned by its righteous blaze, of drinking water from the fountains and being refreshed, of walking through the orangery and being able to actually eat and taste the oranges, I have had dreams of Muslims and Christians living side by side in peace. These dreams have been so vivid, and struck such a cord within me, a cord of peace that I had not felt even in my mortal days that they seemed so real and when I awoke tears of blood did stain my cheeks. I wonder if I have found the dream anew? Or if I am being sent visions by the Lord himself. I have began research on these dreams, and I will start to ask others next Elysium if they have heard similar. I was originally planning to see if I could enter the Muslim Elysium by petitioning prince Hlail, but matters have become so much worse of late that I have my doubts that this would be sensible, it is a shame, as I would have wished to speak to some of their scholars on various subjects in depth.
As for matters growing worse, I will have to warn you of the Inquisition, there are individuals within it who can apparently draw on powers of faith that I have never before seen, granting themselves speed and strength like Cainites and drawing upon faith that wards them from Kindred. Further, more worryingly, there are those who can sense our presence, the lead inquisitor was a friar of the Dominican order whose nose bled most profusely in our presence. We were ordered to slay him and the others, and so, while we could have used poison they have displayed miraculous powers before, so we decided to wear the forms of the Muslim and gather a mob to burn the church, this sadly ended up in storming the church as we did not have enough oil to start fires to smoke them out, and many mortals died before we brought those enhanced with the lords might down. I still feel the pangs of guilt of this action, why should we be extinguishing the righteous hands of the lord to save our own damned skins? If I am supposed to be damned for a reason, why does the lord send his servants against me? But I know that I would have had to lift a hand against them eventually, as I have been given a task, and I must complete these tasks as best I can, I cannot fail the Obertus or my lord God.
May God watch over you and protect you my Childe,
Your Sire,
Gaius Menas Pelagius

Extract MS Lyon

And so it came to pass that order was once again restored to the city. The perfidious rebels, hating God with bile and spite in their hearts, were condemned to death and there by the fires of Hell. Many were placed in Gibbets at the gates and squares of the city to act as displays, warning others lest they follow in their follies. Others still were hanged from the city gates and walls.
It was at this time that the holy statue of Mary Magdalene in the Church of the Magdalene, ceased to cry blood. May took this as a sign of Gods displeasure. A mob ran through the streets calling out prostitutes, attacking heretics and beating Jews and Muslims about their heads.

Extracts from the Journal of Enam al-Dimshaq, taken from Tangiers Archive 2
Alvar is acting the fool. He plays straight into the dissident’s hands. War can not be stopped now, there is but one chance then to limit what damage will be done. Junius was once so amenable to us. How he has changed this past century. Saiph al-Labib will be mourned, though I hope his final death has made a few of the neonates wiser and more cautious.

November 26th 1236.

Letter 4 between Subject Lucita of Aragon and Subject Ambrosio Luis Moncada

Sire
I have a request to make, and I do not make these very often so I hope you shall grace me with your beneficence. I know that you have many longstanding friends in holy mother church. It is necessary that a certain statue in the Church of the Magdalene here in Cordoba which has until most recently been seen to be weeping blood, be investigated and perhaps removed, lest it be a forgery and lead members of the flock astray. This I ask not for myself but for other. Those other matters of which you spoke to me about are now being advanced upon.
Lucita of Aragon
November 30th 1236.

Proclamation 5 by Subject Alvar Cardona.

Be it known that for the next week, and for the next week only, a cessation of all hostilities will be proclaimed. Within this week I invite all Cainites who have yet to swear fealty to come before me in my court and pay homage that is due. Those who follow the so called Prince Hilel will be given priority in their new confessions. All shall be forgiven, all past errors and grievances will be forgotten. After that, all who have failed to profess their loyalty shall be considered enemies of not only me, but also God.

Alvar Cardona.
Prince of Cordoba

December 4th 1236.

Extract from MS Lyon.

As the season of Advent began, the young prince Alfonso, son of King Ferdinand, came to the city of Cordoba, so that he might worship at its new churches and Cathedral. So that he might be celebrate the Nativity and enjoy the many sights and sounds of the city with its numerous baths.

Letter 1 between subject Alvar and subject Junius.

Junius, we have a problem as I am sure you are now aware. Step up the campaign, the matter must be concluded by Epiphany at the latest.

Alvar.
Prince of Cordoba.

December 7th 1236

From the journal of Xavier Hugo, of Clan Cappadocian, Cordoba 1236.

As suspected, it has been proven that our little 'divine miracle' was a fake. It was magic - not my own clan's practices, nor that of Clan Tremere (from what I was able to divine). Viktor Nagy claims its Assamite work - but then, how far can Viktor be trusted?

Gaius was sent by the Prince Alvar to deliver a message to the Muslim court - specifically, the severed head of that court's own messenger. Fortunately, Gaius bargained with Khalidah to give us safe passage. Both messages were the same: one week to choose one's side.

I find myself... somewhat lost in these nights. The deaths of the knights, that damnable Friar... shook me, more than I would have suspected. Nor or this imbalance merely restricted to my inner nature; several people have noted that my appearance, my bearing has... shifted. The Man grows weaker, while the Beast grows stronger. I am not the only one, either - Gaius has become noticeably more - well, more noticeable.

I must talk with Irenie and Dolphus.

MS Lyon

The year turned and the feat of the nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ approached. Hateful to the true word of the saviour, some within the city did attempt to kill the young Prince Alfonso. A man waited on a roof overlooking the Church of St. Maria. Waiting for the Prince to leave the church after Vespers he shot repeatedly at him. God saw fit to save the boy, and nobody was killed, though many of the Prince’s friends were injured. The man then fell from the roof to his death, punished by God and condemned to Hell for his treachery.

Letter 2 between subject Alvar and subject Junius.
So the heathens have slain our brother Juan de Gandia has fallen to the fell blades of the Banu Haqim. I urge you in your post to as Dux Bellorum to prosecute the campaign to it fullest. I desire that the matter be resolved by the feast of the blessed virgin.

Alvar Cardona
Prince of Cordoba
December 14th 1236

Letter between subject Raymon de Pamplona and an unknown Subject in Barcelona.

Brother,
The Saracen is strong here and has threatened the blood royal itself. The Prince of this city, a most pious and forthright man has asked for our Order’s assistance in this matter. The pagan must be pushed back from this city. I beg that you dispatch some of our brethren as soon as possible. I await your deliverance. God be with us.

Brother Raymon,
Order of the Cid.
December 19th 1236

Extracts from the Journal of Enam al-Dimshaq, taken from Tangiers Archive 2.
Word has reached me of the concentration of armed men in the villages to the South. Is it Nazirah, has she summoned her minions from Seville? The situation is hot enough already, I must seek out Naima and hope that an accord can be reached with Alvar. I hope he is not as stubborn as his clan are rumoured to be. If only I knew who was responsible for that foolish assassination attempt! They will be the death of us all!

Letter 3 between Subject Rafi and an unknown recipient.

Lord,
I write to you to express concern, an unknown presence has entered the libraries and is searching for something. I ask you to clarify that you and the other elders know nothing of this.
Rafi al Walid
December 22nd 1236

Letter 5 between Subject Lucita of Aragon and Subject Ambrosio Luis Moncada
Sire,
I have spoken now with our brethren; they are concerned as much by the events in this city as any. Rebelious elements are at odds with those loyal to Prince Hilel. It shall soon become common knowledge that the Knights of the Cid are on their way to the city. Once they arrive Junius will use them efficiently, the streets will flow with blood. I must also ask of you, the Tremere Viktor Nagy has gained some ground with the Nosferatu here in the city. He seeks something called the Table of Solomon.
Lucita of Aragon
December 24th 1236

From the journal of Xavier Hugo, Cordoba 1236.

I find myself... unfocused, in these nights. The baths are faring well enough - business is good, but not overly taxing. The Inquisition are no more. Even the relentless civil war seems far away, for there is little incident in this part of the city.

And yet, I cannot concentrate. I feel I have lost my - my drive, my impetus. Eternal life, for the first time, seems without purpose.

For all of my mortal life, I felt... strained, put upon. For as along as I could remember, I could hear the voices of the dead - those spirits who had departed their bodies, but not the world of men. And, for the most part, I ignored them as best I could - the priests preached against the foul arts of necromancy. My very existence was a sin, but I was not sinful. I attended church, always; I honoured my father, and my mother. I took no false idols, and bore no false witness. I was pure until my marriage, and loyal to my wife. I was a good father, and taught my children the virtues of faith and humility. I was a good man - and this is not a matter of pride, merely an observation; in all things, I adhered to the words of the priests, of the Bible. The Word of God.

And then, there was Gregorius. He came upon me, one night, as I dug the graves for the funerary rites of the next day. I know now, of course, that he must have known to whom I was talking when I demanded to be left alone, but he pretended his ignorance.

"Who are you talking to, grave digger?" he asked me. "I am... talking to no one," I told him. As much as I tried to be a good man, I bore false witness - else the priests would have denounced me, my family would have abandoned me. Perhaps that in my sin, more than anything.

It was almost a month later when I saw him again. I heard strange things in those days, those nights - ghosts whispering half-seen shadows, queer and hollow-eyed men who watched me as I walked down the street. I realised later, of course, that Gregorius was having me watched, judging my potential, my abilities. And then, there was another late shift, another night-dig that required my attention. They came out of the night - shambling, rotting cadavers, serving the voice of the man who walked the graveyards at night - the voice of Gregorius himself. They set upon me and dragged me away; one threw himself onto the cart, dowsing himself in lamp oil and setting himself alike. Gregorius spoke to my companion that night of how I had clumsily dowsed myself in lamp oil and set myself alight.

And Xavier Hugo - man, husband, father - was dead. As simple as that. One old corpse, and one man's mind altered. And I was no more.

But that fear, that outrage, was nothing before the horror of my embrace. Gregorius imprisoned me, told me what was to become of me: that I would become one of the immortal damned. I railed, of course - I argued, and shouted, I threatened and begged and cajoled. But my sire was never one to have his mind changed. Three nights after my abduction, he took my life, and gave me a life anew...

There is a tradition among my clan, and most clans have some tradition of this kind, I have heard. Newly embraced Cappadocians are sealed away in a place of the dead, a tomb or a crypt, and left there for several nights, the better to appreciate the nature of death. Thus it was with me; I was left sealed in a tomb, my only bedfellow a long dead, withered husk of a man. That was my introduction in my new, dark world.

And in those early nights, I fumed - I burned, and ached, filled with a blazing conflagration of hatred, loathing, rage and vengeance. I would - I swore I would - have revenge on Gregorius. I would raze his home, and his precious library to the ground. I would take his head from his shoulders, and rip his heart from his chest. And when I found out about the foul practise of amaranth, I swore I would visit that upon him, as well.

He set me to the task of study and learning. Particularly, he gave to me the task of learning, and mastering, the arts of Giovanni necromancy, so that he could have access to their spirit magics. And so I studied, and learned, and even mastered, in time - and I resolved that it would be only one more weapon I would bring to bear against him. One night, after he was, I felt, particularly intolerant of me, I stole many of his books, as well as a few trinkets, and left. I was somewhat encouraged, I feel, by his own sire, Fabio - a wraith that resulted from Gregorius' own failed attempt at amaranth. I set up in the very crypt I was sealed in, making it my haven, plotting my revenge.

Then, of course, I met the others. In time, my wife died, and my children were taken in by the church. I left Jerusalem; still sure I would return in glory, to visit fiery destruction on my Sire, should he ever show his face again.

Then I went to Constantinople, and saw the fall of the dream. I went to Carcassone, and observed the predations of the Lasombra in the Courts of Love. I saw the start of a war between the Ventrue and the Tzimesce in Magdeburg. I have seen false miracles, Inquistions, Lupines, and Demons.

And I find, after it all, that my desire for vengeance against Gregorius is... gone. Faded, washed away by time. Nor is that the only of my passions that have faded. I find even my loathing of Vykos is growing dull - he is like a child in a man's body - a child with too much power.

Perhaps it is my age. I am 78 now - older than most men ever reach. And I will never age, nor grow sick, nor will my mind dull. The actions of one Cainite - even one who perpetrated a personal wrong against me... it all seems without meaning. Or rather, the anger I felt, seems without meaning.

I am growing colder, and I seem to be cooling faster now than ever before. I cannot but see the faces of the dead knights, of the Inquisition, when I close my eyes. Men who believed they were doing God's work, defending the innocent from the predations of demons. And now they lie dead, at my hand - and at that of others. Why? They were a threat.

Perhaps that is why I cannot concentrate. Perhaps I am thinking about the wrong problem. The nature of death is not confined to the Underworld; death affects those who remain in the world of the living as well.

I think I will retire early tonight.

Xavier Hugo.

Letter 1 between Subject Rafi and and Subject Jakeem.


A presence has been in the Library again, none of the clerks have noticed it, but I have sensed it. I have consulted with others and none of the Elders or officers of the realm have any knowledge of who this trespasser is. He, though She for all I know, has apparently been looking in the Egyptian texts that were salvaged from Alexandria. Greater security measures will have to be put in place.

Rafi al-Walid

December 30th 1236

Letter 1 between Subject Raymon de Pamplona and Subject Alvar.

My Prince,

My Brethren have arrived in the city this evening and are housed with my friends. After a nights rest they shall be able to take the fight to the heathen. Their leader is a Nosferatu by name of Raphonse of Zaragossa. He has brought VI Knights of the Cid with him, and some C men at arms. Im sure they will be of great use in the coming conflict.

Raymon de Pamplona

Knight of the Cid

January 3rd 1237.

Letter 1 between Subject Junius and Subject Raymon de Pamplona.

Brother Raymon,

Now that you and your brethren are here and are keen to be at the enemy of God, I suggest that you ride out to the south o the city. Word has come to me that our foes amongst the Assamites have gathered a small army of some MM to MMM in the village of al-Gavir. The village has no real defences to speak of and the heathen seems self assured. I can grant you the assistance of some XXV ghoul knights and some CC men to add to your force. If you can catch them by surprise, which seems likely, then victory will be assured.

Junius,
Dux Bellorum

January 12th 1237.

Extract from MS Lyon.

Rebels against the just rule of the Lord gathered in numbers against his deputies on earth. Thousands assembled to throw back the righteous conquests or the Lord. Yet God in his divine grace saw fit to aid his followers in battle, and the enemy after little fighting was put to flight. The victorious warriors returned to the city of Cordoba welcomed as heroes. Words against the rule of God were not heard again in those parts.


Extracts from the Journal of Enam al-Dimshaq, taken from Tangiers Archive 2

Hope has appeared once again. Junius is a warlord and nothing more. His desire for conquest is but a mask for his true and personal intentions. Alvar while determined might be convinced to make peace if Junius were not whispering in his ear constantly. I can only hope that those I have placed my faith in can live up to expectations, enough have passed into the final death already.

January 19th 1237

Letter 1 between Subject Nazirah and Subject Satuf.

Enam is up to something, She has grown either very bold or very desperate. Perhaps the time will soon be come for her to step down as Seneschal.

Nazirah,

January 25th 1237.

Letter 1 between Subject Nazirah and Subject Viktor.

Dearest friend,

I do so enjoy or little discussion and I do hope that you will join me and my other friends at the Mezquita in due course. Your talents will most definitely be appreciated there I assure you, and you will have my protection. The advancement of intellectual pursuits must not be dampened by the petty squabbles of Princes.

Nazirah

January 30th 1237

Proclamation 6 by Subject Alvar.

Be it known that the Cainite of the Assamite Clan, known as Yusuf Ibn Zahir, who with his accomplice, Faisal, of Clan Gangrel, did murder our loyal brother Raymon de Pamplona. He has been found guilty of this crime and shall be executed for this treachery, as will all those who raise their hand against the authority of my Princely position.

Alvar Cardonna,

Prince of Cordoba

February 4th 1237.

Calm Before the Storm
From the journal of Xavier Hugo, Cordoba 1237.

These nights have been quiet - the calm before the storm, indeed. There have even been no Elysiums called; everyone is preparing for the war they know is inevitable. I have been left in peace to my studies, largely. I was sent in look into a gathering army in the south; they are warriors from Seville, most probably Muslims come to aid the natives of the city. I have told... people. The Qabilat Al Mawt. Junius the Roman. The Knights of the Cid are in the city, as well.

I am more disturbed by less public matters, however - there will always be war between Cainites, there will always be war between the Muslims and Christians, and that is an end to it. But there are those who seek something bigger, something infinitely more dangerous.

It is all coming together now - the pieces fitting like parts of a broken plate. Giovanni and Nagy both seek the same goal: the Table of Solomon, no doubt planning to utilise its great powers for themselves, summoning and binding all manner of spirits to their will (assuming, of course, one does not kill the other as soon as they have it in hand). Nahmanides has been lodged in my haven because he knows something - he has an idea of where the Table is hidden, I think.

But these dreams, how do they fit in? Do they fit at all? Is Rasmi trying to tell me (us) something? Is this an unintended side effect? It is not the first time I have known a Salubri to project powerful psychic messages, although I never did discover if my experiences in Constantinople were intended. Perhaps my Clan's gifts of sight make me susceptible to these messages - but why are Kahlidah, Alais, and the Tremere not affected?

Too many questions and too few answers. And the shadows of war are gathering while Nagy and Giovanni also search - my time is growing short. Still, I have access to the great libraries of Cordoba now, perhaps the knowledge there will be enough. There are few I dare to share my suspicions about the Table with.

Xavier Hugo

Letter 1 between subject Rufina and Subject al-Wali.

The note book on Michael Scot was returned to us via the Setite Khalida, the monk Gaius and Osias. How they acquired it exactly from Nagy I do not know, but Nagy has not been seen for some night now. Given the relationship between the Tzimice and the Tremere though I do not hold much hope for him. The Tzmice are said to have long memories and can be very petty and spiteful.

Rufina

February 10th 1237


Letter 2 between Subject Junius and Subject Raymon de Pamplona.

Raymon, the Prince in his infinite wisdom has determined that you and your brethren knights must deal with the bandits and outlaws that are currently plaguing Christian traffic and pilgrims along the river and roads north of here. Our connections to Valencia and Madrid must be secured and nothing must come to threaten this. While your efforts may be put to better use in the current conflict against the infidel, I feel that the Prince’s wishes must be acquiesced to. God speed to you in this endeavor.

Junius
Dux Bellorum

February 15th 1237


Letter 2 between Subject Nazirah and Subject Satuf

Viktor Nagy has gone to ground it seems; perhaps he has betrayed us, though I consider that rather unlikely. We must find him. I hope he has not fallen into the clutches of Enam. Plans must be escalated it seems.

Nazirah,

February 17th 1237


Letter 6 between Subject Lucita of Aragon and Subject Ambrosio Luis Moncada

Sire, If you wish that your plans here go as you wish then I suggest that you send some appropriate resources to Junius of the Ventrue here in the city, he has the title of Dux Bellorum. The matter still hangs in the balance here, and though the ground has been laid for future operations, I feel it my duty to encourage you to assist our Christian brethren in this matter. The death toll mounts.

Lucita of Aragon

February 24th 1237

Photogrpahic Reference - Cordoba I

The Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir at Cordoba




The Cathedral-Mosque and Old City



Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción/Mezquita/ Cathedral-Mosque



Interior of the Mezquita



Moorish Architecture



Moorish Architecture



The Progress of the Reconquista

The City of Baths - Cordoba Late Summer 1236

MS Lyons 223.64, here after referred to as MS Lyon.


And his majesty in that year MCCXXVI of the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ did take the great city of Cordoba from the Muslims. There he installed a new bishop. And tore down the false idols of the deceiver and erected many new and fine churches, worthy in the praise of the Lord God. Many of the inhabitants who clung to that villainous faith fled the city at the approach of the King and sought refuge in other places of Andalusia. There were so many empty houses and palaces that any soldier might claim it for themselves by hanging their shield above the door and declaring it their possession. Having put the enemy to flight the king distributed the newly conquered lands to his loyal subjects, to hold in service.


Proclamation 1 by Subject Alvar Cardona.

I, Alvar Cardona, Prince of the City of Cordoba by almighty God, in the presence of those here assembled, by the hand of Ferdinand of Burgos, do grant the following territory to the Cainites. They shall possess all the land that lies between the New Gate and the market square before the Church of St Mary Magdalene. All that is encompassed by this is under their authority. They hold this land in fief and as loyal Christian vassals of the Prince of Cordoba. They shall do service for this fief in times of war. They shall uphold all the traditions in this fief. If they fail to uphold them then their service hall be made void and forfeit, and the fief shall return to their liege the Prince of Cordoba. They are responsible for the administration of justice in the fief, and will be held accountable for any failings.


Signed

Alvar Cardona, Prince of Cordoba
Ferdinand of Burgos
Gaius Menas Pelagius of the Obertus Tzimice.
Xavier Hugo of Clan Cappadocian
Alais of Clan Toreador
Ossias of Clan Brujah
Frederickson Fletcher, Tremere

August 29th 1236


Letter 1 from Subject Enam al-Dimshaq to Subject Alvar Cardona

Know this Franj, his Excellency Prince Hilel does not recognize any grants of land or investiture of territory that you make within the boundaries of his city. All such grants are null and void until approved by his eminence. These dogs that you bring in to lap at the table scraps shall run like true curs when faced with the wolf like grace of Prince Hilel. You are a usurper and nothing more.

Enam al-Dimshaq

Seneschal of Cordoba

September 2nd 1236


Letter 1 from Subject Alvar Cardona to Subject Enam al-Dimshaq.

Dearest Lady,

I have been appointed Prince and hold this position by right of conquest and through God’s ordination. I shall dispense with my territories as I see fit. Your cur Hilel may do as he pleases, squandering his resources and conversing with poets. The tide has turned and a new sun is rising.

Alvar Cardona

Prince of Cordoba

September 7th 1236.


Extract from MS Lyon

Choosing to live in the continued ignorance of their erroneous faith, the followers of Mohammed resisted the word of the Lord God. Violence was done in streets as these Grifons rebelled against their Christian lords. Battle was joined in the streets and the many were slain. To ensure that the faith of those Christians who had lived under heathen rule for so long was pure, the Holy Inquisition was established in the city and did investigate all rumours of heresy.


Letter 1 between Subject Rafi and an unknown recipient.

Lord,

I have dispatched these selected works, which I’m sure you will agree are of great importance, with the Lamian Iola Lethra. Her particular talents will make her an excellent courier. If this holds well then much may be saved from the hands of the Tremere, and hopefully away from the Giovanni’s libraries. Xavier Hugo and his associates seem amenable. I hope that they shall stall Jakeem and Nagy in whatever schemes they are concocting.

Rafi

September 11th 1236


Letter 1 between Subject Ferdinand of Navarre and Subject Alvar Cardona.

Esteemed Lord,

I urge caution concerning the matter of these newly arrived knights escorting that Dominican Friar. My sources inform me that the Poor Knights of the Broken Cross are not to be trifled with. It is an expressed command within my own Order of Bitter Ashes to avoid these men, and engage in no dealings with them. Their faith is strong, as many of us felt the other night as they rode by. There is certainly more to them than meets the eye and I urge you and the other members of our Elysium not to underestimate them, or act rashly. This Friar, Walter von Murnau is also another, he disquiets me and others. Perhaps it would be wise not to antagonize.

Ferdinand of Navarre.

Order of Bitter Ashes

September 19th 1236


Extracts from the Journal of Enam al-Dimshaq, taken from Tangiers Archive 2.

…..These knights who live in the faith of the Christians have taken up residence in a church in the Christian’s quarter. Their presence here unnerves us all. Satuf was most concerned; the look upon his face was memorable if nothing else. It has been a long while since he let his countenance slip. Yet we dare not approach or interfere. I do hope the younger ones of the court obey the expressed instructions given to them. It is unwise to pull an old Lion’s tail…

September 22nd 1236

Letter 1 between Subject Lucita of Aragon and Subject Ambrosio Luis Moncada.

Sire,

Work continues here in Cordoba. The city is thick with flies and other carrions eathers, all come to feast upon the corpse of this city. Books and crumbling scrolls are their meat. The Tremere, Assamites, Cappadocians and Brujah all wage a secret war with each other over what scraps they will get. A Greek Tzimice, by the name of Gaius Menus Pelagius has set up an Obertus outpost here in the city. Granted a fief by that fool Cardona no less. Perhaps he hopes to recreate the dream that was Constantinople. I do believe that it is the Nosferatu who will profit the most from this feeding frenzy. I have made contact with the Setites, indeed I seem to be pursued by one of their agents in particular. The Ashirra are secretive and given the arrival of so many Christian Cainites in the city, and the arrival of the Inquisition, are appropriately cautious. I do believe the Assamite called Nazirah will be the most problematic, but by winter I should have acquired a place in the court of Prince Hilel. The Setites will extract a price of course.

Lucita of Aragon.

September 28th 1236.

Extract from MS Lyon.

The sin of the people of the city of Cordoba could not begin to be cleansed until all forms of corruption and foul pollution within the city were first purged. Hiding amongst the heathens was the villainous sect of Jews. The people of the city then began to turn on these lowly creatures. Their houses were burnt and the men and women dragged into the street to face the wrath of the crowds. All in all some C were killed over those weeks, their bodies tossed off the bridge and into the river. Some survived the attacks by appealing to friends to hide them in their houses, or by feigning conversion to the Lord Jesus. In return for these great acts in His name God sent a miracle to the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. There a statue of the Magdalene began to weep tears of blood.


Letter 2 between Subject Lucita of Aragon and Subject Ambrosio Luis Moncada.

Sire,

The price for the goods has been established, we shall be creditors it seems. The business will soon begin in earnest here. It shall be as you have commanded.

Lucita of Aragon

October 5th 1236


Letter 2 between Subject Ferdinand of Navarre and Subject Alvar Cardona.


My Lord,

This matter concerning the Poor Knights of the Broken Cross must be addressed. I can advise you as best I can, and I urge caution. Their encounter with us at Elysium at St. Rafael’s as most unpleasant and disturbing for all involved. They see and they hear it seems. Our true natures are suspect to them, and their faith is strong enough to rile the inner beast. I fear that further investigation by this Friar von Murnau will prove telling on us. If the traditions are to be kept then we must go to ground. I have dispatched correspondence with my brothers throughout the realm to see what they might learn about this humble inquisitor. Though a Dominican he is not here on their Order’s business. I have been able to gather nothing on the III Knights that accompany him. If we can not go to ground then a confrontation must be provoked. This may be to your advantage. Until then the miracle at St. Mary Magdalene’s will act as a suitable distraction for them.

Ferdinand of Navarre

October 8th 1236


Letter 1 between Unknown sender at Ceoris and Subject Viktor Nagy.

Viktor.

I hope this letter finds you well. The clan has considered your last report to us. You are to continue on current course with all matters. They are of utmost importance to the progress of the Clan as a whole. As far as a Chantry is concerned, all such matters for the time being shall be delegated to Frederickson Fletcher. You are to assist him in these matters if they do not conflict with your own current objectives. This matter is of secondary importance, we trust in your judgment. News has come to us that the Assamite witch Nazirah is most definitely within the city. Your judgment is also trusted upon this matter.

October 14th 1236

Letter 2 between Subject Rafi and an unknown recipient.

Lord,

The Giovanni has reorganized himself and his bid to acquire further works. I fear that the number of books that you shall receive will now dwindle. As such these shall be some of the last to depart with Iola. I shall retain her on an ad hoc basis until matters resolve themselves. The situation is growing worse here everyday. Sooner or later one will triumph over the other. Jakeem continues in his foolish endeavours with Viktor Nagy. It has also come to my attention that the other Tremere, Fletcher has been commanded to build a chantry here in Cordoba. The Usurpers infestation spreads further and soon more will descend upon this cities carcass to strip it clean. I have secured those individuals such as Nahmanides and his associates as best I can. They unlike many of their brethren shall not fall into undesirable hands, whoever they might be.

Rafi

October 29th 1236


Extracts from the Journal of Enam al-Dimshaq, taken from Tangiers Archive 2.

It was not until the old Rabbi had gone from his house on the corner near the orange seller that it really became apparent to me. The Children of Israel are disappearing from this city. While some might be put down to natural causes or the brutality of the Christians, there is another hand at work here. Like rats fleeing a ship before it sinks beneath the waves. Are they just hiding or are they fleeing to protect something. Their community has always been most secretive, but always loyal and personable. Certainly they have held the admiration of he Viziers for sometime. What are they at?

October 31st 1236


Letter 3 between Subject Lucita of Aragon and Subject Ambrosio Luis Moncada.

Sire,

I have completed negotiations with the Setites as instructed. I shall soon be meeting with our brethren in Cordoba. If there are any further instructions you or the rest of the Elders might wish me to impart then I urge you to hasten it. The time is unknown but it fast approaches. Much is transpiring here in the city, those Knights of the Broken Cross have been most troublesome but I have managed to evade their notice. The Dominican Walter von Murnau however is another matter. The mans persistent nosebleeds are most distracting. It is as though he can smell out our kind like a hound coursing for rabbits or foxes. Speaking of little foxes, how in your experience might one suitably disentangle oneself from Setities, one seems most keen on pursuing me in particular.

Lucita of Aragon

November 4th 1236

Proclomation 2 by Subject Alvar Cardona.

Be it known that this turbulent friar and his lackies who masquerade as pious knights of the Lord will be tolerated in my demesnes no longer. To whomever removes this blot upon our realm will be rewarded in status and s gift of M bezants from our own funds.

Alvar Cardona
Prince of Cordoba

November 12th 1236


Proclamation 3 by Subject Alvar Cardona.

Be it known that the Setite known as Khalida is henceforth banished from our Elysium, and will be punished upon pain of Blood Hunt should she return. Her crimes and actions stand before all as a testament to this decree.

Alvar Cardona
Prince of Cordoba

November 13th 1236


Extracts from the Journal of Enam al-Dimshaq, taken from Tangiers Archive 2.

The fools! What have they done, all that has been worked for over the last year has been brought to naught. Now the city shall be reduced to ashes and the fires shall consume us all! It is to be war then. Alvar will not survive, the rebels of the court are too powerful for me to hold back any longer. Satuf and his comrades will have their way.

November 15th 1236


Extract from MS Lyons.

The wicked Muslims, hating all that God has created rose up in rebellion against his ministers. They attacked the Church of St. Rafael and did burn it. There they found a Friar sent by the Bishop to root out heresy in the city. Overcoming him and his guards the did murder them and mutilate their bodies. From there word went out to their heathen cohorts who surged through the streets killing and burning all that stood before them. Aware of the troubles face in the city, his Majesty King Ferdinand III sent yet more knights to the city with their sergeants to quell the mob. This they did and the streets did flow with blood.

Proclomation 4 by Subject Alvar Cardona.

Be it known that I as Prince of the City of Cordoba, do hereby appoint Junius of Clan Ventrue as Dux Bellorum until peace is once again re-established in these lands.

Alvar Cardona
Prince of Cordoba

November 20th 1236

From the journal of Xavier Hugo of Clan Cappadocian; Cordoba 1236.

Damnable pots! Several pages of my journal - destroyed by a flaw in the ceramics! What was the last page?

So, yes, we were given a fiefdom. And, largely, things proceed well in that part of my life - Gaius and Osaiis have taken over the majority of the burden of running the place. Osaiis works at getting guards, while Gaius (predictably) is concentrating on the religious community. For myself, I have claimed a small baths left abandoned since the invasion; here I have stored my note books and tomes, as well as housing Gilliam and my herd - they usefully act also as caretakers for the baths.

For the last two months, however, I have been making my home in Gaius' Abbey, the better to hide from the Inquisition. Last night, however, these ceased to be a problem: on the orders of the Prince, we removed the friar and his knights. He knew of us - he was a danger, there was no choice.

Gaius' choice of tactics, however, have started a civil war: the Muslim mortals have risen up against the Christian invaders, and I do not doubt that this will soon spill over into the Kindred world - and as lords of a fiefdom, we will inevitably be drawn in to the chaos.

I have still to deal with Joachim, who is gifting books from the city libraries to the Tremere, Victor Nagy. I have additionally been asked to protect one Rabbi Nahmanides, a Jewish "source of great knowledge," according to the one who asked me to protect him.

A point of interest: the Inquisitors soul, Osaiis' first chosen of one hundred, journeyed to the end of the black road in a day.

Photographic Reference - Magdeburg I

Magdeburg and its Cathedral from the River Elbe



Magdeburg Cathedral



11th Century Monastery of Unser Lieben Frauen



Interiror of Magdeburg Cathedral



The Holy Roman Empire in the mid 13th Century under the Hohenstaufens



The Emperor Frederick II Hohenstaufen



Hermann von Salza - Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights



Teutonic Knights on a Riesen



The Hohenstaufen Coats of Arms

City on the Elbe - Magdeburg 1211

Letter between Subject Celsus Obertus and Subject Gaius Menas Pelagius.

1211
Dear Gaius,
I trust that your travels in Europe are keeping you well, your continued correspondence has been a most entertaining read and has given us many interesting insights into the politics of the various Courts of Europe, there are those among our number who believe that some of these cities would make good locations for the establishment of some new safe houses and abbeys though perhaps by members of our number who will blend in better with European society. You will be glad to know that we are still going strong, despite the occasional attack by the more violent Viovodes, I have recently heard from Nilus that he his having some success in rebuilding one of our monasteries in the stabler parts of Byzantium.
This is not the reason I write to you however, your next destination has been decided. It has been decreed that you should travel to Magdeburg as soon as you are able, there are events unfolding within Lord Jurgens court that are of interest to us, hopefully this may also provide an opportunity for you to establish a new abbey and also perhaps give us a presence within the courts of the Black Cross. However, I should warn you that there may be a great deal of Usurper presence within the city, as their found breed is also moving to take advantage of the current political situation, you should also be careful that there will be members of our clan within the courts there, I cannot promise that there will be any familiar faces however as most likely these will be out Carpathian cousins who are often less than friendly towards our bloodline.
Be careful, move with caution.
Your Sire,
Celsus Obertus


Extracts from the Journal of Subject Gaius Menas Pelagius of the Obertus

Extract 89-94

1211
As you can tell from previous entries, I have been travelling Europe in the company of Osias of Clan Brujah and Kalidah of The Followers of Set. I suppose what many would be asking is that why would two god fearing members of the damned flock of god be travelling with one of the heathen followers of the church of set, who act to corrupt all of those they encounter through their trading of favours and vice? The answer to this is both simple and rather complex, I have known Kalidah for nearly eight years; a piffling amount of time to one of the undying such as me I admit, however in these years while Kalidah has attempted (and occasionally succeeded) into luring me into indulging my desires and vices she has repeatedly fought side by side with me, and despite numerous opportunities has yet to betray me or the rest of our companions despite numerous opportunities to do so. As such, while I cannot say I agree with her choice in religious practices, I have come to count her as a comrade. Further I feel that I owe her a great debt for her support in the events that transpired two years ago, for that alone I will defend her as she did me.
As for Osias, I believe that he travels with her out of interest, he is a scholar first and foremost and the opportunity to experience more of Europe and learn information about the religion and culture of the Followers of Set is far too tantalising a possibility to ignore. My retainers and followers have accompanied the travelling merchant families of Kalidah for some time now, passing from court to court and staying for a relatively limited time, often long enough for us to evaluate the social situation and the political topography as well as searching for some of Kalidah's clan mates. I have often taken the opportunity to garner boons and favours in the territories I pass through by exchanging knowledge or teaching a few of my talents (though not my rarest) and by plying the gift of moulding the human clay given to us by the lord. In exchange for these favours, I have usually requested financing, future favours as helping my clan establish a presence and occasionally one or two books or tomes that have caught my interest. I have been working hard to maintain contact with my Obertus brethren, such as some of my colleagues who are currently engaged in a similar activity to me by spreading the presence of the Obertus and gaining a foothold in one land or another, or those who remain in the Balkans and our remaining monasteries however I admit that contact through the usual mediums is difficult due to the fact that I am frequently travelling.
My sire is the individual I am most frequently in contact with, it his from him that I have received my latest orders from the Obertus. I am to travel to Magdeburg in the Court of the Black Cross, apparently there is something unfolding there that is of some importance to the elders, though I can't say I look forward to the presence of more usurpers and I worry that my Carpathian cousins will be less than happy to see me. Say one thing of the Usurpers, for all their politicking their clain isn't nearly as fractious as ours. I wonder whom among our previous travelling companions will be present in Magdeburg? I have been keeping in contact with Xavier Hugo of Clan Cappadocian, who is apparently working harder to study theology and the religious aspect of academia, perhaps there is hope for him yet, this has however led to some rather lively debates between the two of us.
I wonder what Magdeburg will be like, I have yet to learn to speak German, however I hope to quickly add the language to my repertoire. I'm sure that Kalidah or one of the other linguists among our small circle will be willing to teach me in exchange for a small favour. As for what will occur within the city on the Elbe, only God knows.


Fragment of a letter discovered in Alexandria Archive 57 belonging to Subject Khalidah


……I tire of this continual travelling, of this lack of faith in myself and in my divine mission. The world is intended to test me and try to unsettle my beliefs; it seems to build me up only to knock me back down again. This is not what I thought it would be like at all.
I thought I knew my heart and what I wanted, and yet since my return to Jerusalem only to be denied I feel lost and abandoned by the one I loved. We are so different that he is almost my antithesis – and yet I feel that I cannot give up on him, that he truly is the person with whom I am meant to be with. I had thought the blood hunt was in jest, but now I know much differently. I am certain I can get around it, if I can be given but a few moments with him.
Even as he denies the aid I gave him against his enemies and sends his followers to tear me apart, even as I feel the anger rise within me and unfurl about him, I will not give up on him. He is a gift, and like all offerings of the Dark God, he is a double edged sword to be used with caution. He is a double edged sword that seems to strengthen and weaken me in equal measure, able to turn on me at any time. I gave up so much to be with him, I am now a pariah of my own clan because of my inability to give up on a lost cause. I have never felt this way of anyone before, so I know it must be true. There is more to it than the blood: whatever he believes.
Even as I scribe my heart with his name, I cannot help but feel I must apologise to Talbot, but I know he will not have me; I also fear I only wish his company to fill the hole that Lucius has torn through me. I might go to him under the guise of needing his advice, only to end up in the same position as I was in before, only this time, he may well wish to do me harm. I should be concerned for my safety, and yet I am not so worried about the damage he could to me – I am ready to pass over with a clear conscience.
But not before I have made up with Lucius. He is in my blood, as I am in his…..

Letter discovered in Alexandria Archive 57 between Subject Khalidah and Subject Jaffar

Most Esteemed of Set

I thank you kindly for the loan of the books you sent with your last letter, and respectfully return previously leant tomes along with a few additions I have picked up across my travels. In particular, I draw your attention to the writings, copied in haste, from the collection of Gaius: though I know the clan has no interest in the mistruths of other faiths, there is a certain amount of interesting points that might be worthy of further investigation. I have many questions to discuss with you upon my return, but rather than burden this letter with my ignorance, I shall wait till I see you next, and see if I cannot figure some of them out on my own.
I am somewhat suspicious of the willingness of my companions to accompany me across the face of Christendom: as charming as I, I am not exactly cut from the same cloth as they themselves. They seem to have convinced by my ‘conversion’, and it will be a charade I continue throughout my travels. I am also intrigued by the notion of using it as a way of converting them to the true way of the Dark God – Gaius has weaknesses enough and indulges in them frequently enough, but Osius is still a mystery to me. Brujah are always a little…hard to crack though.
When we last spoke you were good enough to mention my previous failures: at the time, I had no words to say to you regarding the matter. Now, having meditated upon it awhile, and for the love I hold for you as my sire, I must respectfully point out that everyone has their failings, and how else can I learn without making a few mistakes? Have I not always taken care of the problems afterwards? I am certain that not even Great Set Himself was perfect, but that constantly striving for self- improvement and understanding was the way he taught us to survive.
As ever, send my well wishes to my brood-siblings, and I hope for your continued life and love.

Khalidah.

Extract from the Journal of Subject Xavier Hugo.

Thus did the "excitement" in Carcassonne came to an end. Khleda left soon after, and with her Gaius and Osaiis. I remained behind, studying under the careful if idiosyncratic tutelage of Irenie. She taught me much - not merely about Mortis, but about the wider purposes of our clan. Irenie held great favour for the virtues of reasoning and rational thought; these virtues, first and foremost, she imparted to me. We spent endless evenings walking through the cool night of the graveyard, as she gave me puzzle after unsolvable puzzle. And, largely, she seemed... satisfied... with my progress.

Dolphus, likewise, continued to tutor me, through the medium of ritual magic. Our conversations wandered over various and varied topics; we swapped news of our respected homes, and I introduced him to Irenie; we talked about our studies, and advances we had made in both the study of death, and the perfection of the arts of sorcery (his advances in both fields were significantly more impressive); and he continued to tutor me in the philosophies of the clan.

My studies were lacking, however - both my teachers agreed on this. While my pursuit of sorcerous knowledge was considered positively prodigal, my stubborn refusal to consider the fields of theology and politics resulted in, my tutors felt, a gaping holes in my education. The first was simply solved: Irenie appear at my haven one evening, arms laden with books of a religious nature, gathered from across the known world. Her instructions were simple: I was to read, and learn.

The second was less easily solved. No text I have read before or since has ever fully captured the infinite and subtle complexities of Cainite politics. This was something, Irenie and Dolphus agreed, that I would have to see for myself.

Thus it was that I was sent off to school - in the form of Magdeburg. I was to observe a great meeting, between the Clan Ventrue and others. It was there that I again met Khleda, and Gaius, and Osaiis...



Proclamation by Subject Jurgen, found in Vienna Archive 2.

Cainite Prelates of Christendom, I Jurgen , Lord of Magdeburg, Childer of Lord Hardestadt, paragon of Clan Ventrue., do invite all those who know and respect the might and power of our clan to attend the great festivities that will be held at our Elysium in the city of Magdeburg. All who acknowledge the superiority and position of our preeminent clan will be welcomed most warmly as dear friends, and will be gifted as deserves that friendship. For now in these dark times the true light of civillisation and rule of law shall be brought to the heathen lands of the east, where the savage and barbarian have ruled the night too long. None may stand in the way of divinely appointed order, for the earth must match the heavens, and all of mankind must be brought under the rule of the one true faith. Have it known that those who stand against us, stand against reason and peaceable society itself, they shall not be spared in their fates.

Lord Jurgen

Prince of Magdeburg

March 1211


All Letters found in Vienna Archive 2

Letter 1 between Subject Albin and Subject Lucretia

My Lady,

While his grace Lord Jurgen may very well be enjoying the accolades and applause of his supporters and friends in his recently proclaimed venture, I can assure you that this is not the case for the burgesses of the city. Our numbers have grown too great for the city and not enough herd has been brought or provided for by the visiting Cainites. The people fear to walk the street and suspect our presence, though they are unable to fathom it. I urge you to speak to Lord Jurgen on this, lest inaction bring down doom upon us all.

Albin

March 25th 1211.

Letter 1 between Subject Kara and Subject Rustovich

My Lord, Sovereign of the East.

I have as you commanded delivered your words to the warlord Jurgen in his court at Magdeburg. He and his simpering sycophants have not the wisdom or the sense to hear reason. It is to be war. Knights of the German Order will soon be dispatched into your territory. I shall attempt to serve your ends here as best I can until it is no longer possible for me to remain. I have heard rumours that the Gangrel Morrow and her pack are in the city and have attacked numerous convoys on the road between Magdeburg and Hildesheim.

Kara Vlaszy Lupescu

March 26th 1211

Letter 1 between Subject Tancred of Benevento and an unknown recipient.

Dearest Friend,

I have conversed with the Patrician Lord Jurgen, and have gained his word concerning the boy Frederick. Otto may wear the crown currently but Jurgen will not interfere if a new contender should arise to claim it. His and indeed Hardestadt’s eyes are firmly locked on the East. Hungary is their prize. Preparations may now begin for the boy’s journey North, Genoa appears favourable. Mithras’s puppet will not last long, the Toreador of the Empire have already turned more in favour of their French cousins and our brethren in Rome have the ear of the Curia. Capetian dominance may soon be assured.

Tancred

March 26th 1211.

From the journal of Xavier Hugo, of Clan Cappadocian, Carcassone 1211; translated from original Chaldean...

Oh, don't things just keep getting better?

I had but one small piece of good fortune this night - not a word spoken between myself and Vykos. I awoke and left the inn early, tracking down a local crypt to partake of the draught of blood and ashes - I figured I would need it for another night at Elysium, and I was not disappointed. Khleda and Gaius continued to snipe at me about Vykos' insane obsession.

My one brief relief was an enjoyable little sojourn with Osaiis down the river. It seems that the Prince was expecting one of the German river boats to arrive bearing some important cargo, and it was not too long before we discovered exactly why it was delayed - for it had been driven into the bank, and all its crew killed. Out of the mist appeared Morrow herself, as well as several of her followers. What followed was a civil enough conversation; Morrow politely requested us to return to Jurgen and relay her assurances that the stolen cargo (a stash of valuable silver bars) would be used to arm an army to stop his expansion. We were also given a letter.

It wasn't until we got back, of course, that things became complicated. Firstly, I discovered an exsanguinated body by the side of the road - not a victim of a visitor hunting out of the allowed area, as first I thought, but actually a victim of Albin. That soon became the least of my concerns, however, as the Toerador's precious lost sword was found in the possession of the Ravnos. They have been arrested, but Alais is convinced they are innocent - and I must say, I am tempted to agree. It is far too neat, and even the Ravnos would not be so foolish as to steal a item of such obvious political importance.

Further, we have been approached by the Keeper of Elysium herself (who, being the one who engaged the service of the Ravnos as entertainers, has fallen out of Lord Jurgen's favour) to investigate the matter. Who could it be? The untrustworthy Tremere, who stand to gain by becoming Jurgen's 'trusted advisers'? The emissary from the Courts of Love, who seeks to use the fact she was falsely accused as political leverage? The Gangrel, engaging in a twofold attack, both obvious and subtle? Perhaps, of course, it is Albin - who the rumours state was Prince of Magdeburg, until he was deposed by Jurgen. But... no, Albin would not have framed the Ravnos, but would have spirited the sword away completely, leaving the alliance between Jurgen and the French Toreador to crumble.

So; it could be the Tremere, being content to prove their worth to Jurgen, then affix the blame to a notoriously untrustworthy low clan, thereby wrapping the matter up nicely (I shall have to see if I can discuss this with Fredrickson - he may have information). It could, again, be the Toreador, seeking to force Jurgen onto the defensive, having falsely accused her of betrayal. It could well be the Ravnos engaged in some unlikely double-bluff...

Ye gods, politics is complicated. What did Irenie hope I would learn here, other than that my dislike of the ways of court has been quite right all along?

It grows late - the sun rises soon. Tomorrow night - another court, more intrigue, more danger.

Xavier


Letter 1 Between Subject Henrich von Achern and an unknown recipient.

Everything has gone according to plan. Lord Jurgen has put the Lasombra fools fear’s to rest with his promises of neutrality over the position of Emperor. He has promised that Hardestadt and the Ventrue of the Empire will take no action concerning the rivals Otto and Frederick. Otto and his army are ready and by now should be crossing the Alps in to Italy to meet the ill prepared boy head on. The Lasombra are as of yet unaware. To think that we would stand for one of their puppets as Emperor! They shall return to the Sea of Shadows with their dark tails between their legs!

Jurgens plans continue apace here in the east, it appears that war will soon be upon us, Kara Lupescu and her master Rustovich are arming I have no doubt. Lord Jurgen is displeased, a shipment of silver bullion has gone missing on the Elbe having left Freiheim. Word is that Morrow is responsible.

Until next time,

Heinrich

March 27th 1211.

Extracts from the Journal of Subject Gaius Menas Pelagius of the Obertus

Extract 95-97

March 2011
The events that have transpired so far in Magdeburg have given me much to consider, as I saw in Constantinople and Carcassone the events that transpire around me are dizzying in scope and as I have been told by Akuji and Myca Vykos: Shadows within Shadows. There is little that a piece as small as I can do to truly do to influence the moves of individuals such as Rustovich and Lord Jurgen, this does not mean however that action is pointless. Kahlidah and myself have occupied ourselves by engaging in investigations of our own, and because of our actions in causing the arrest of the Ravnos Silas and others we have been given the task of who is truly behind the events that transpire here. I fear that we might not ever find out, Kalidah and Alliases visions have been less than helpful on the subject, myself, I lack the ability to glean such knowledge from people and objects. In fact I feel that evening that the sight that I have been blessed with by the lord our god was stunted and weakened, indeed, I poured much of my will into it but gained nothing in return. Most frustrating I can assure you.
The unwanted affections of Myca Vykos upon Xavier continue to amuse me greatly, I feel that Xavier has let his pride cloud his judgment and fill what he considers to be sterile and divorced thinking into the actions of a child having a tantrum. Which while highly amusing gains him nothing more than pain as Vykos continues to torment him, all the while alluding to some sort of mark that he has left upon Xavier, I'm beginning to suspect that he is perhaps being somewhat literal and less metaphysical. While I acknowledge that I am flawed and limited myself, Xavier’s actions will only serve to cause him greater pain in the future, he needs to learn to back down and capitulate more often, surely a couple of nights under his ministrations would not be so remiss and would gain him a powerful ally? Unlike myself he does not have to worry about the toll that licentious actions would take upon his soul, after all being a heretic he is damned in Gods eyes already and condemned to eternal suffering in hell. A fate that I fear I may join him in due to my own sins and weakness, Oh, how I wish that I could console myself with the promise of purgatory or even eternal salvation but as always visions of the pit and its fallen keeps return in my dreams taunting me with my past transgressions. I feel that I am even more forsaken now, having tasted the forbidden flower of the amaranth and drank of the soul of another kindred. I have never felt such a rush before, beyond what I previously considered to be the most delicious of all fleshly sins. It is a dark and tempting mistress, more tempting even then the supple curves and slavic features of Natalys, I can sometimes feel its sirens call in my blood, tempting me for another taste and another rush of stolen power.
On the subject of the most forbidden of kindred sins (and yet, like all sins, so often indulged) Fletcher managed to quite deftly enrage me with a comment based upon my previous transgressions and I managed to lose control of my beast again, as a mortal I would never have imagined something so powerful and willful could dwell within the heart of man. Before I knew it I had dug my claws into the leathery flesh of his face and dealt him a rather painful blow, a most satisfying attack I say so myself. I had to fight the urge to lap up the blood, for I forced myself to come to my senses and realise that this would be playing into the usurpers plans. As much as I may hate my uncouth and pathetic Carpathian cousins, who foolishly have shed the forms given to them by god and donned monstrous countenances, I hate the devious usurpers more. They have stolen power that is not theirs, they pretend to power and might among Cainite ranks without possibly understanding the history and great power of the ranks that they stand among, what fool willingly grants himself eternal damnation?! What fool shoulders the curse of Caine willingly, if not joyously, with stolen blood none the less!
Before I lose my cool and reason, I should shift onto another topic. I have began to consider that there are many things that I have not been taught about the practices and traditions of my clan that I should learn in the coming years, and spending time in the east viewing their horrific works has made me consider that the applications of the creators shaping arts of flesh and form are somewhat limited as practiced by the Obertus currently, as ghoulish as the Carpathian applications are they seem to reach an understanding that many who have practiced the ways of the Obertus seem to have not. I am not at all suggestion that shedding the human form and progressing to something more monstrous is the key to understanding our inner selves and reaching divine transcendence, as the most mighty of gods creations and crafted in the creators image we must acknowledge that the human form was given to us for a reason. As much as the curse was forged for a reason, and all things in creation have their purpose.
Instead I am coming to the realisation that transcendence cannot possibly rely on the understanding and advancement of ones spiritual self alone, those thought alone would be considered somewhat heretical by the Obertus, but I cannot help but consider that if we are truly able to transcend and become one with our lord we cannot possibly neglect our physical selves. I feel that the problem with the Obertus and my Carpathian cousins is that we have both been too focused on merely one aspect of existence, some have been too far focused on the spiritual side and the support of that spiritual aspect and others have been too focused on merely the physical.
Consider, is the world not made from both flesh and spirit? The Cathars made a good point that it is in the physical world that many sins existed, but consider not that there are as many sins of spirit as there are flesh, the world of spirit and flesh are both corrupted by human inequity and failings. I cannot possibly phantom the work of Yah Wei, considering that I could do so would be blasphemy and hubris of the worst kind, what mortal could possibly understand the works of the creator better than the divine and holy himself? Instead I believe that to attain the transformation that my clan has been long searching for one must study both the physical and the spiritual, to do so gaining as much understanding of Gods creation as possible, I intend to do so by studying other beings within his creation and by attempting to divine their purpose and how they fit within the divine order, as well as attempting to understand the spiritual make up of the heathens as even in the roughest and most displeasing of rocks jewels and veins of wisdom may be found if one searches hard enough. Honing my own physical form is another step I have now begun considering taking, after all, I have turned my flesh crafting talents upon others for favours before and I work my flesh frequently to return it to its original form. Why shouldn't I turn my works upon myself and seek to perfect myself, so long as I remain motivated by attempting to understand gods creation and imitate his great works, in particular the beauty of some of his angelic servants, rather than motivated by base human greeds I should remain true to the cause.
I must finish my ramblings, as dawn approaches and I must rest once again before another night of frivolity and political upheaval approaches. I find myself missing the company of my childer more and more, I shall have to right to her soon, I miss her insights despite her relative youth and her faith serves only to fill me with increased strength and resolve when my own falters.
Gaius Menas Pelagius of the Obertus


Letter between Subject Lord Jurgen and Subject Hardestadt

My Lord,

The fiends have sent their token declaration of war. The have attempted to bait me into reckless actions, it shall not work. The host is ready and we shall march forwards. All is prepared; order and civillisation shall reign, all under the Black Cross.

Jurgen

Prince of Magdeburg

March 29th 1211

Proclamation 2 by Subject Lord Jurgen

To all Cainites within the domain of the city of Magdeburg. Be it known that the one known as Jervais Bani Tremere, of the usurping Clan Tremere, is here by as of this date, under the sentence of Blood Hunt. This is fitting punishment for the crimes and deceptions that he and his associates have committed here in Magdeburg in an attempt to undermine and destroy the bonds of friendship long held between myself and the Court of Love.

Jurgen

Prince of Magdeburg

March 31st 1211

Holy Men - Carcassonne Summer 1209

Extract from MS Bilbao

Putting the city of Beziers behind them the army of God proceeded to the city of Narbonne. This city was very old and had been a great centre during the reign of Roman Emperors. Here the Bishop of the city surrendered the city, placing himself and his people into the hands of the Papal Legate Arnald-Amalric. For this city unlike its neighbour at Beziers was populated by good Christians, who despised and would not tolerate the frivolities of the heretics. Those who had attempted to flee from Beziers had come to the walls of the city, only to be turned away. From there they went to Carcassonne. Having secured Narbonne by treaty, the army of God advanced to the city of Carcassonne where that arch-heresiarch the Viscount Raymond-Roger Trencavel held court. The city was placed under siege, great siege engines were constructed and did great damage to the walls and towers.

After a week of fighting news arrived of the approach of the King of Aragon. He had come to settle the disputes between the army of God and the heretic lords of the region. He hosted negotiation between Raymond-Roger and the Papal Legate. There was much arguing, but realizing the impossibility of his position the Viscount surrendered his lands and cities so as to spare all the people who had taken refuge inside. On the 15th of August the army of God entered Carcassonne. There in the Cathedral the mass was heard and the Papal Legate did announce the establishment of an inquisition to root out the heretics hiding amongst the populace.


Proclamation 1 by Subject Esclarmonde the Black.

Having proven himself before the assembled court of his peers, and also in the eyes of the Lord God, Rolande de Chantilly has proven himself worthy as to be named as the champion of Carcasonne. It is with this seal that I do hereby acknowledge his feats and skills in the strength of arms.

Escalrmonde

Queen of Carcassonne

August 4th 1209.


Letter 5 between Subject Luctia of Aragon and Subject Luis Moncada.

Sire, all has gone according to your wishes thus far. I have made preparations for King Pedro to come down from the mountains. The Lords who control those regions had been sufficiently satisfied. The presence of the Tremere continues to worry me. However there is oddly enough an Obertus Tzimice residing in the city. Given the exchanges between them to date I am sure the Tremere will be more than distracted. I have contacted Irenie, all is ready, the pieces will soon be in hand. It would be wise now to contact our brethren in Poitou.

Lucita of Aragon

August 9th 1209


Letter 3 from Subject Esclarmonde the Black to Subject Alexander.

Lord,

I am at a loss as to what to do now. The army of God is before my walls and is actively slaying my citizens. The beasts that lurk within their horde will not spare this city, despite what mortal negotiations will come to. Since I have received no word or succour from you. I have no choice but to place myself beyond your service, according to the customs of our land.

Esclarmonde

Queen of Carcassonne

August 12th 1209



Extract from the Journal of Subject Justinian, from Archive Vienna 3.

Margaritte continues her infatuation. Foolish girl, matters however must continue. I shall have Fletcher acquire the key components for the ritual. Ceoris have provided little help concerning the appearance of the members of House Quaesitor and House Flambeau. They have declared war upon us here. They fear that I have located Mistridge or Doisstep, despite their preventative measures. I shall have to request gargoyles from Florence to sure up the security here.

August 16th 1209.


Letter 1 between Subject Gullieme and Subject Thomas of Dover.

I know not what exactly your association with the Usurpers may be, but I suggest in the future you treat your correspondences with them with greater care. If I have managed to intercept them then I can assure you Paul has already been through them and informed Victor or Marianne of their contents. You must proceed with caution.

Gullieme

Auguts 18th 1209


Letter 1 between Subject Anatole and Subject Ambrosious

The pit of damnation awaits you and all of your kind my friend. Repent of this lifestyle now while God upon high permits, and save your soul from the oblivion that awaits it!

August 22nd 1209

Letter 6 between Subject Luctia of Aragon and Subject Luis Moncada.

Sire, matters move with apace here. The Tremere Regent, Justinian has disappeared and rumours suggest murder. It is true that the Usurpers are currently engaged in a conflict with mortal hedge wizards, and they lay in ambush outside Elysium. I know not how this matter will effect your plans. The offer has been made to Esclarmonde, and she was not alone in the reception of that offer. The other items have been acquired. The Cappadocian Irenie was quite compliant in that respect. I shall continue on course as you have commanded.

Lucita of Aragon

August 26th 1209

Letter 1 from Subject Henri D’Evreux to Subject Unknown.

My Lord,

The Army of God has entered the city. An inquisition has begun. All the pieces are now in place. Simon de Montfort has come forward as the best candidate. The presence of this Dominc Guzman may be troubling. He is possessed of a faith that I have never found before. He was capable of making many of the Toreador and Brujah flee Elysium by his mere presence. Esclarmonde reigns and he support base is strong. How long that continues to last is known only to the Divine.

August 29th 1209


Letter 1 between Subject Rolande and Subject Esclarmonde the Black.

Majesty, most serene queen and Domina of Carcassonne,

I urge you with all the greatest respects and the admiration that I humbly hold for you to resist the perfidious and serpentine words of the scoundrel Armand de Bayonne. The Order of Bitter Ashes are nothing more than thieves who would steal what rightfully belongs to us. This can not be allowed to pass. I for one shall stand before him and deny him as our lord and saviour Christ denied Satan.

Rolande de Chantilly,

Champion of Carcassonne

September 1st 1209.


Extract from MS Bilbao

Finding the arch heresiarch Raymond Roger unsuitable to continue his rule of the people and city of Carcassonne, the assembled lords and prelates gathered to choose a new viscount, who could help restore the word of God to the people of the county. There was some debate then chose the Earl of Leicester Simon de Montfort as the new Viscount. There was much rejoicing amongst the army of God. Lord de Montfort immediately took over the Viscounts palace and the citadel of the city garrisoning his men there.

The King of Aragon then took his leave and returned to his own land. The Cathars of the city were hunted down and brought before the holy office of the inquisition. Many confessed to their crimes and were convinced to rejoin the true faith having been made aware of their errors. Others continued to reject the teachings of Jesus Christ; those who fell into this latter group were arrested and held by the inquisition until they repented. Those who would not were handed over to Lord de Montfort to be punished as the law demands. Those magnates who had erred in the way of Christ or who had harboured and aided Cathars were also stripped of their titles and their lands were given to good Christian lords.


Proclamation 2 by Subject Esclarmonde the Black.

For breaching the peace of my realm and subverting the right of the Prince in the laws concerning the destruction of our kind, I Esclarmonde, Queen of Carcassonne sentence Gaius the Monk and Khalidah of the Setites to the following punishments.

I. Khalidah is to be stripped and publicly horse whipped through the streets of the city.
II. She is to call upon the Lord for his intervention and forgiveness for her transgressions.
III. She is then to attend the Cathedral and receive mass and communion in both kinds from a man of faith.
IV. At no time is she to reveal her true nature to the Kine during these punishments.
V. Gaius for his crime is to be blinded and quartered outside the city walls.
VI. He may not return to the city for one whole day, but is to survive in those wild place here abouts. If God permits that he should live then he may return within the city and take up residence once more.
VII. Any who should intervene to help or hinder him will themselves receive a similar fate. For it is in the hands of God to judge such matters.

Esclarmonde

Queen of Carcassonne.

September 5th 1209.


Letter 2 from Subject Henri D’Evreux to Subject Unknown.

My Lord,

The office of the inquisition has begun rounding up Cathars and other undesirables from the city and its lands. Though some risk is present for our kind, I believe that many of the Cainites here are sufficiently suited to avoiding detection in their actions, or failing that capable of disarming the lackies of the Bishop. Some ruffians and neonates were caught in their web of investigations. I will of course take the appropriate actions concerning such matters. The King of Aragon has departed these lands, but his Lasombra overseers still remain. Matters continue, Esclarmonde is no longer secure in her seat of power.

Henri D’Evreux

September 8th 1209



Letter 7 between Subject Luctia of Aragon and Subject Luis Moncada.


Sire,

All stands ready, the King returns to his lands across the mountains. All matters here are now complete. I await the arrival of our craftsmen to complete the works started here.

Lucita of Aragon.

September 13th1209



Letter 2 between Subject Gullieme and Subject Thomas of Dover.


It seems that the Poitivens and vassals of Alexander have out done you Sir. They now possess all the lands and titles which I thought you coveted in the name of John Lackland. You now have a task greater than any faced by Heracles before you.

Gullieme

September 17th 1209


Fragmentary Extract from inquisition records. Currently Located in Madrid Archive 2.

Individuals brought before the office of the inquisition this night……..Gaius a monk, convert from the Greek heresy, recently arrived in these parts from Constantinople…….Fletcher, accused of sodomy and witchcraft…….also in Constantinople……..Alais Trencavel……..suspected of Heretical associations as per her relative the Viscount………Kalidah……horse whipped for licentiousness………orgiastic behaviour in a House of God………….Osias…….a Jew in hiding……protector of the Synogogue………..Xavier……gravedigger…..sodomite and defiler of the dead…..necromancy………….Held in cells below the Cathedral overnight…..put to the question…….Denial of charges…Nothing to confess….A conspiracy….all present in Jerusalem or Constantinople….continued questioning revealed nothing….minor rivalries and animosities….Xavier a scholar, presenting himself as a dullard….further investigation required.

September 22nd 1209.

Extract from MS Bilbao

Violence against the will of God was rampant throughout the land. Heretic Lords, unwilling to part with their territories fought against the Army of God and those magnates who were to replace them in their lordships. Many knights having now served their time began to return to homes, their oaths to God fulfilled. Many Cathars attempted to flee before the soldiers of Christ and the inquisitors, but were soon captured and brought before his divine justice. Autumn came to the land and so the season for campaigning came to a close. With no other way to strike back as the inquisition or the soldiers of the lord, the perfidious Cathars and their protectors used poison and other murderous techniques upon those doing the work of the Lord. As punishment for this treachery the arch Heresiarch, the former Viscount, fell ill and did not recover. Struck low by the hand of the Lord, he died and proceeded straight to eternal damnation.


Proclamation 1 by Subject Helene la Juste.

In the name of Prince Alexander of Paris and Matriarch Saliana, I Helene invested with the authority of the Grande Court do hereby place Esclarmonde, Queen of the Court of Love in Carcassonne and Toulouse under arrest. She may not remove from here demesne in the vicinity of Carcassonne, under penalty of Blood Hunt by the other Courts of Love, except to answer charges brought against her in Paris. Likewise any who assist her in such matters will face a similar fate. Esclarmonde is charged with treason and the held responsible for the deaths of many a cainite, whom she had murdered by members of Clan Assamite. She is also accused of supporting known Heretics and attempting to subvert the rule of law in the County of Toulouse to the crown of Aragon. This decree is to take effect immediately.

Helene la Juste

September 26th 1209

Proclamation 3 by Subject Esclarmonde the Black.

Having been abandoned by my liege lord in a time of peril, having received no aid or assistance from him, when beset on all sides by enemies, who once I thought friend, I do here announce that my service to the Grande Court in Paris forfeit. In addition I do here by proclaim the Blood Hunt upon Helene la Juste, and any other agent working for Saliana Matriarch of Paris, who does not announce themselves in advance of entering our demesne.

Esclarmonde

Queen of Carcassonne.

September 28th 1209.

Proclamation 4 by Subject Esclarmonde the Black.

For breaching the peace of my realm and subverting the right of the Prince in the laws concerning the destruction of our kind, I Esclarmonde, Queen of Carcassonne sentence the wandering mendicant Anatole to the following punishment.

I. Anatole for his crime is to be blinded and quartered outside the city walls.
II. He may not return to the city for one whole day, but is to survive in those wild place here abouts. If God permits that he should live then he may return within the city and take up residence once more.
III. Any who should intervene to help or hinder him will themselves receive a similar fate. For it is in the hands of God to judge such matters.

Esclarmonde

Queen of Carcassonne.

October 3rd 1209.


Letter 3 from Subject Henri D’Evreux to Subject Unknown.

My Lord,

Matters have gone as you predicted, Esclarmonde is now isolated and trapped here in Carcassonne. She will not be able to interfere in forthcoming matters. I shall attend here as you have bidden me to ensure here enforced stay remains.

Henri D’Evreux

October 9th 1209

Letter between Subject Gaius Mena Pelagius and Subject Celsus Obertus

Summer 1209

Most Esteemed Sire,
As was ordered I have succeeded in establishing a Abbey for us in Carcassonne, however in the several months since my previous report there has been a major shift in the political situation, though my knowledge of the politics of the Court of Love and Cainite politics in their infinite complexity is relatively limited I am informed that Esclamond the Black has been accused of hiring Assamite assassins to eliminate several of her enemies within Carcassone and abroad, it is believed by one of my companions that the documents in question had been cunningly forged by some means so that even under the enhanced talents available to our clan and the Toreador their falsehood would not be revealed. It is suspected by this same individual that this is part of a scheme to further the influence of the Court of Shadows, which would explain the presence of Lucita of Aragon, as well as part of some form of manoeuvrings by several of Esclamonds enemies.
Despite the further complication of the political situation, and the removal of several important kindred at the hands of the Assamites, the Abbey remains safe as we have chosen to remain politically neutral and it should from here on in continue to grow without my personal tending. However there is a potential threat represented by the Inquisition due to accusations of licentiousness, which I believe may have originated from individuals within the populace controlled by the Usurpers. I have undergone questioning and trials, and while I have been found innocent so far I will probably be watched in future. However I suggest that any of our brethren who travel here should be careful not to arouse suspicion, and to keep their actions discreet for the foreseeable future.
The situation of the Usurpers remains somewhat troubling, they are currently suffering somewhat after the destruction of their regent by my fang, reducing their numbers to his apprentice and an individual you will remember from Constantinople, The fabled Prince of Doormats. I believe after the current incident that the erstwhile prince will be leaving Carcassone for safer locals, Cyricus has observed that they are engaged in packing and preparing. Justinians apprentice remains under the care of Esclamonde, weakened though she is, and it is not safe for me to act against her, though I have made sure to step up the process of encouraging infestations within their chantry in a hope of destroying their access to blasphemous magic and hopefully drawing them to the attentions of the Inquisition, this time I have focused on mice and pigeons, I'm also hoping that I can encourage a flock or two of local corvids to use the building as their resting place, in particular I have been attempting to teach them to form blasphemous symbols, though the complicated designs are beyond their minds. As for further undermining the Usurpers within the city, I have been making overtures to several individuals who have no love of the Usurpers and I'm hoping that I can ferment an alliance between them and the Obertus Abbey in hopes of keeping the Tremere weak or driving them from the city all together.
I have further status reports on the progress of our bloodline, the Revenant family remains small currently, but we are already beginning to see progress with the youngest members of the new generation, which means that hopefully in a decade or two their numbers should be bolstered sufficiently. The herds have also been well maintained, in particular through the caring for the poor and the needy within Carcassonne, a process that has been far more effective with the influx of refugees. All the preparations are complete, I believe that it will be ready to be left under the care of your grandchilder, and hopefully if all fares well her own childer.
Do not worry yourself on the state of my soul, you have taught me well and since my lapse in judgement I have been increasingly vigilant and gone through the proper rites of starvation and repentance, though I fear the nightmares have intensified, as each morning I awake to find that my flesh has boiled into demonic forms or even twisted into the face of the Usurper himself.
I await further instructions,
your childer,
Gaius Menas Pelagius

Dear Gaius,
We have gathered to discuss your next order, and it has been decided that due to your lapse of judgement (may god have mercy on your soul) and the excellent progress made by your abbey that it is best that you should move on to look for another site to set up another Obertus safehouse and repository of knowledge. It has yet to be decided where this next abbey should be placed, however in the mean time we feel it best that you should remain travelling in the mean time as an itinerant monk. Take with you only enough Herd and Followers to establish a new Abbey, as well as some of the Revenants that have been entrusted to you, Anna is to remain in charge of the Abbey, while some here worry that she is far too young for such a responsibility I have faith in your teachings and her ability. Given the situation with the Usurpers, we will most likely be dispatching one or two more of our number to the Abbey alongside their various retainers to reinforce our foot hold.
As for the state of your soul, remember what our Lord Dracon and Gesu have taught us, remember what the scriptures have taught us and the lessons that I instilled in you and you will remain upon the right path. Despite the doubts that some among our number have of you, you have proved to be as dedicated to the cause and perhaps more effective than many of the supposedly more pious members of our number. Remember your Faith and remain strong.
Your Sire,
Celsus Obertus