wod-vampire  :: Coteries Update :: (148 Reads)

Posted by IanWatson on Wednesday, September 22, 2004 - 11:52 AM

This excerpt taken from the intro outlines the contents of the book:

This book is part toolbox and part source material. The various chapters provide information on how the concept of a coterie functions within a given covenant or, in the case of the first chapter, how it functions with members from more than one covenant or with members drawn from a single clan. For Storytellers, this information can help both in the creation of coteries composed of Storyteller characters, as well as how to keep a coterie together when the chronicle has started (and challenge the unity of the coterie during each story). In addition, Storytellers can find advice on how to create plausible scenarios for multi-covenant and single-clan coteries.

For players and Storytellers, this book gives ideas on how to build a coterie that will serve as a strong anchor for a chronicle. At the very least, it should provide options and considerations for play beyond the desire to betray one’s fellows for short-term, immediate gain. Think of it as a discussion on how to portray the social dynamics of a group of Kindred. Players might also be inspired by the source material presented on the various capsule ideas when creating their characters and/or coterie from the ground up.

The Prelude offers a look at the Requiem for a young coterie and shows what can be accomplished as a group. In addition, the Introduction lays out the mood and theme of the book as well as offering a few general words of guidance.

Chapter One: Cosmopolitan Coteries mixes it all up. While the following chapters focus on coteries comprising members of the same covenant, this chapter explores the possibilities and problems facing a coterie that draws members from multiple covenants, as well as the possibilities inherent in coteries based around a single clan.

Chapter Two: The Ordo Dracul deals with the coteries formed by the followers of dread Dracula, the practitioners of the eldritch Coils of the Dragon. It includes details on occult societies, bizarre duties of the Dragons and beyond.

Chapter Three: The Carthian Movement focuses on the youngest covenant to interpret the coterie concept. It offers information about the various groups of philosophers, intellectuals and political rabble-rousers that espouse “new thinking” among the undead.

Chapter Four: The Circle of the Crone gives you information about the various coteries that make up the most spiritual and most religiously unorthodox of the covenants, as well as a few of their rituals.

Chapter Five: The Invictus provides a close look at the neofeudalism of this covenant and examines the groups formed under its monolithic structure. Specifically addressed is how coteries relate to the convoluted power structure of the First Estate.

Chapter Six: The Lancea Sanctum gives you information and ideas about individual groups of Sanctified, from die-hard fundamentalists to more moderate groups, as well as the spiritual functions that bind the coteries.