Conclave Decisions

This page is an attempt to collect Conclave Decisions.

Conclave Decisions

2012 Conclave - Amsterdam

Kindred of the Camarilla.

Over the last few decades, the Elders of the Camarilla has watched as the modern world shaped itself. We have observed, not devoid of interest, the common practices and behaviors that marked the Camarilla in these times. We have witnessed the curious changes that became almost a trademark of many Domains, particularly in the New World. How fast this admirable and ever-changing new world moves.

One specific and disturbing concern has drawn special attention, and to that end a Conclave was held in Amsterdam on August 16th. The Second Tradition of Domain should be one of stability. The title of Prince is not one to be lightly taken and dismissed on a whim. The Masquerade, which protects us all, requires a Domain with a strong guiding hand. It is akin to a flock that needs a good shepherd, one that provides the flock with lush and vibrant pastures for them to grow and excel, and also one that protects them from the elements and threats. The Masquerade protects all Kindred, yet we are concerned that we have seen a continuing trend of frequent turnover of Princes. This troubling development threatens the Masquerade and all of the Camarilla.

Many respected Princes and other Elders of the Camarilla gave passionate speeches concerning the Masquerade, the Camarilla, and Princes in the modern world. The Conclave decision is that Princes who have proven themselves able to provide the leadership needed to persevere through threats external and internal, to provide the stability that can only come through time and experience, those Princes be distinguished throughout the salons and Elysia of our noble sect. While allPrinces are Exalted, Famous and Well-Known by their station, those who endure and show themselves capable of sustaining their rule shall also be seen as *Venerable in the virtue of maintaining their position for as long as their reign lasts. Furthermore, these Princes may bear the right of claiming the title of Sovereign Prince.

When domains lose their Princes too quickly, or Kindred treat the position with flippancy and disdain, it weakens the position, weakens the Sect, puts the Masquerade at risk, and therefore puts all Kindred at risk. All Acknowledged Kindred should strive to a higher standard and not to allow this to happen.

His Arbiter Eleganciae, Titus Petronius Niger
His Halcyon Excellency, Justicar Art Morgan
Lord Justicar Jaroslav Pascek
Lord Justicar Lotharius

2011 Conclave - Columbus, OH

To the Camarilla at Large,

On 01 and 02 July, 2011, Lady Justicar Lucinde, along with Lord Justicar Jarsolav Pascek and His Avian Excellency, Justicar Cock Robin, held a Global Conclave in the Domain of Columbus, Ohio to meet and consider the Giovanni Promise, the position of Setites and Followers of Set within the Camarilla and finally the Rebellion.

Also in attendance were their respective Archons, Leonius Agrippa, Elizabeth of York, Chiron, Raoul Moriarty, Paul Walker, Tiffany Cole, Sandhurst, Theo Bell, Plaguerat, Saul Good and Pinger, as well as Archons Aetius, (at the time, now Prince) Nicholas Tept and Hugo Valentine.

Seneschal (now Archon) Jon Apolo de Soult and Kate Davidson (now Archon) acted as Moderators for the discussion and Genevive de Montaigne acted as Herald to the Justicars.

A few nights ago, the Ivory Tower and the Elders of the Camarilla chose to uphold the outcomes as voted upon at this Conclave. Therefore it is my pleasure to announce:

On the Giovanni Promise, our Elders have seen fit uphold the decision to leave the wording of the Giovanni Promise as-is, as well as agreeing with the addendum of creating the position of the Camarilla Ambassador to the Giovanni.

On Setites, specifically those created as part of the bloodline of Setites, our Elders have upheld the decision as voted to further limit Setites so that they many only hold the positions of Sheriff, Scourge, or Archon within the Camarilla. Within the discussion of the vote, Justicar Lucinde clarified that removing the Setites from the Camarilla as a whole was not an option fit for the ballot at this Conclave. All Setites who have already proven their worth as Acknowledged members of the Camarilla will continue to be treated as such.

On Followers of Set, our Elders have seen fit to uphold the decision as voted to disallow those of the Camarilla who are Followers of Set to hold any position in the Camarilla.

It was made clear that the fourth docket item, on the Sabbat, was not going to result in a vote set before the Conclave, and therefore our Elders have not upheld any decision in this matter. However, the Justicars asked for opinions and discussions on the matter following a small address delivered by myself, and a short summary is included here:

"In these troubled nights, many Domains face threats from multiple sources. Threats brought to a finer point especially with more recent disturbing announcements and incidents.

"We are at war with the rebellion, the Sabbat. This is not a question or a matter for debate. However, when a Prince faces threats to their Domain on multiple fronts, it may behove them to have the ability to negotiate a cease-fire, however temporary, so as to not tax themselves from too many fronts. Yet that ability directly conflicts with the previous edict of Lord Justicar Pascek, which includes that ‘any Camarilla member who knowingly associates with a member of the Sabbat will be removed of all their standing and put to death as a traitor to their sect and the blood.’"

The discussion included many points, some arguing that the edict was too restrictive and disallowed common tactics such as infiltration and espionage. Others argued that we didn’t need such tactics to know our enemies, and that they should simply be killed on-sight. After some discussion, His Avian Excellency stood to address the Conclave to explain a situation wherein he and several supporters had gone to Detroit to fight off the Sabbat, only to find themselves gridlocked along with the Sabbat and attacked on all fronts by infernal forces, who attacked Camarilla and Sabbat members both, indiscriminately. Archon Hugo Valentine asked Lord Justicar Paseck for a clarification on his edict as it pertained to interrogation. Lord Justicar Pascek indicated that his edict did not apply to those who spoke to a Sabbat member for the purposes of interrogation. The Justicars presiding thanked all for their opinions and the helpful discussion.

My thanks for your time, and bon nuit,

Genevive deMontaigne

2010 Conclave - Annapolis, MD

To all Concerned:

A few months ago, the Elders of the Camarilla chose to hold a Global Conclave in the Domain of Annapolis to meet and discuss the rulings on Elysia, the powers of the Keeper and of the Sheriff, the powers and limitations of the Archons, the ongoing dangers of shadow coteries and the structure of the Obtenebration Registry. The Camarilla’s most brilliant and active minds present at the event debated these matters and the presiding Faultless Justicars conducted a consultation of what the attending Kindred believed should change.

Our Society's words and views were taken to heart by the Justicariate in a gathering of purpose and importance. There, they have thoroughly conferred and have agreed that these issues which trouble our Domains should be addressed by them and be dealt with the same wisdom our forefathers used to create the Camarilla whilst always keeping in mind the Traditions above all else. They also have given me the honor of addressing their decisions.

First, regarding the rulings on Elysia: As confirmed at the time of the Conclave, the Pax Vampirica and its rulings still apply and always shall. Elysia's role in Kindred society is older than the Camarilla itself and must be respected as the cornerstones of our civilization they are. Moreover, Elysia are sacred and are for Kindred and Kine alike to share the bond of kinship. The 2003 Northern Virginia Conclave decision is reaffirmed. Elysia supersedes the powers of the Prince and the Second Tradition.

Second, regarding the powers of the Keeper: As wisely pointed out at the time of the Conclave, Elysia is not to be ignored when convenient, despite several recent scandals which occurred on their sacred grounds. Thus, the need of a Kindred formally responsible for enforcing the rules and decorum was duly weighed, and it was agreed the Keeper of Elysium, in addition to the power of stripping status for breaches of the Masquerade, from now on also has the power to strip status for breaches of Elysia. However, let it be remembered that the same way all Kindred of the Camarilla are obliged to uphold the Six Traditions (and above all others the First, the Masquerade), all Kindred are also obliged to respect the Elysia and the Pax Vampirica in effect on the sacred places. The Honorable role of the Keeper of Elysium, as suggested by its name, is but to maintain the order in the Elysia and the events realized on its grounds.

Third, regarding the powers of the Sheriff: Although the majority of the Kindred present at the Conclave think the Sheriff should not be immune to the powers of the Keeper to strip status for breaches of the Masquerade and Elysia, it has been decided such exemption must continue. The Sheriff's role is to enforce the Traditions within the Prince's Domain, as well as the edicts of the sitting Prince, at the instruction of the Prince. Such important duty has in its grasp the authority to question or judge other Kindred. Therefore, it was carefully agreed that the Keeper of Elysium cannot be placed in a position to jeopardize the Sheriff's appointed role. However, let it be remembered, even though the Keeper cannot strip standing from the Sheriff for a breach of Elysia or Masquerade, the Sheriff must still honor the Traditions and Elysia; and if failing to do so, the Sheriff is still answerable to Harpy and Prince for such Scandal.

Fourth, regarding the powers and limitations of the Archons: As can be imagined the most interested party in what the Archons do are the Justicars themselves. More so when these Empowered and Feared Kindred are accused of erring so consistently and frequently as they have been. However, let it be remembered Archons are always on duty and are the representatives of their Justicars. Hence, any criticism made against an Archon is made against his or her Faultless Justicar. If an Archon misbehaves in a given Domain, the Prince is strongly advised to present proof of the crimes to a Justicar; or, if strong enough, the Prince can enforce the Domain's Laws as he or she sees fit. Although this has always been an unspoken understanding the Faultless Justicars wish to reinforce that - despite being immune to the Traditions of Hospitality and Destruction - Archons are strongly advised to work in accord with the Princes in whose Domains they are at Service and to pose no threat to any Prince's Praxis. To better fulfill their roles, Archons cannot involve themselves in a Praxis Seizure nor call for a Conclave to remove a Prince.

Fifth, regarding the Obtenebration Registry: As debated at the time of the Conclave, how and when Obtenebration should be regulated within the Camarilla is a matter of great interest to many Kindred due to this Gift being possessed by some of the most upstanding members of the Society and being a powerful tool against the Rebellion. However, no utility such tool presents excuses one from learning Obtenebration only from a true Lasombra, registering such learning properly with the Herald and the Justicariate, and using the power only in service of the Camarilla. Therefore, it is agreed that all Kindred of the Camarilla must follow these rules, and the Obtenebration Registry is reopened and will be policed jointly by the Justicariate and the Lasombra Herald.

Sixth and last, regarding the ongoing dangers of shadow coteries: As noted early at the discussions of the Conclave, this issue had the possibility to become a witch hunt if not handled carefully. This issue also involved two different matters: enemies of the Sect working against the Pillars of the Camarilla from within and Kindred whose alliances were simply publicly unknown. Therefore, it is agreed that participation in a coterie is not a crime as long as such coterie has the Camarilla's best interests at heart and upholds all our Laws and Traditions. Coteries are groups of Kindred with common purposes and Princes have been known to create them for given tasks. However, even if one member of a coterie does not share all the Camarilla's ideals nor have its best interests at heart, it is wrong to assume the same for all other members of the coterie. Hence, it is decided that specific enemies of the Sect and violators of the Traditions are to be punished as individuals. Although wisdom must be properly used when choosing one's allies, one is not answerable for crimes of an ally.

Very Respectfully Submitted,

Jan Pieterzoon.

2008 Conclave - Minneapolis, MN

To: The Camarilla From: Ian Trask, Archon to Lucinde, the Ventrue Justicar Subj: IT-Directive 120508 - 042 Re: Results of the Twin Cities Global Conclave

On Nov. 8, 2008, the Camarilla convened a conclave to decide the following:

1. Should the Children of Haqim be permitted to join the Camarilla as full members, removing their status as probationary and permitting them to hold any position up to and including Prince, but without representation among the Justicariate?

2. Should the Gangrel, already able to hold full rights as citizens and claim Domains within the Camarilla, be permitted a representative among the Justicariate?

Justicars Lucinde, Petronius and DiZagreb presided, and Justicars Streck and Cock Robin were attending. All Camarilla citizens holding Acknowledged status were permitted to vote on each of these docket items with the only options being yes or no. Both measures passed by an overwhelming majority of no less than 85%. These results have since been ratified and approved by the Inner Circle.

It is noted that Clan Tremere negotiated with the Children of Haqim in order for the attending Tremere to vote in favor of removing the Probationary Sect Member status of the Children of Haqim – the Children of Haqim have agreed to grant this concession.

The concession requires all Children of Haqim, who have not already had their probationary status personally removed by a member of the Justicariate and who are seeking full membership in the Camarilla, to present themselves to any Justicar of their choosing and fully disclose any violations of Camarilla law that the admittee has committed prior to their presentation before the Justicariate.

These confessionals shall be logged with the Society of the Hague, and any member of the Justicariate may reference the log. Once the disclosure has been made, the Justicar in question may grant the Child of Haqim a full amnesty against any past transgressions.

This grant of amnesty must take place before the Child of Haqim can benefit from the removal of their Probationary status. After a Child of Haqim has been absolved of any wrong doing and their probation is lifted, they are welcomed into the Ivory Tower with all rights and privileges including holding such positions as Prince and Seneschal.

I am proud to be among the first to officially congratulate the Children of Haqim and the Gangrel. The Camarilla is now not only once again whole, but stronger than ever before.

Ian Trask, Archon to Justicar Lucinde

It is noted that Clan Tremere negotiated with the Children of Haquim in order for Tremere PCs to vote in favor of removing the Probationary Sect Member status of the Children of Haquim – the Children of Haquim have agreed to grant this consession.

The consession requires ALL Children of Haquim seeking full membership in the Camarilla to present themselves to any Justicar of their choosing and admit to any violations of Camarilla law that the admittee has committed prior to their presentation before the Justicariate. Those events shall be logged with the Society of the Hague, and any member of the Justicariate may reference the log. Once this personal statement has been made, the Justicar in question may grant the Child of Haquim a full amnesty against any past transgressions. This grant of amnesty must take place before the Child of Haquim can benefit from the removal of their Probationary status.

2006 Conclave - Columbus, OH

Infernalism

Active participants of the practice of Infernalism shall be seen as violators of the First Tradition and must be treated as such.

Vicissitude

Policy on Vicissitude becomes thus: A member of the Camarilla discovered to be in possession of the Sabbat disease known as Vicissitude shall be forfeit of all status, and their existence. Should the carrier be of significant value to his or her Prince, the Prince may petition the office of the Brujah Justicariate to allow an Ordeal by Purification. After the ordeal, the carrier may or may not be granted mercy. Should they be granted mercy, they will be returned to their Prince free of all charges.

Assamite Positions

Abstain, and table the vote for one year's time.

Ravnos Positions

Ravnos will continue to hold positions as previously ratified, as well as those of Seneschal and Prince.

Setite Positions

Setites are allowed to hold city positions with exception of Prince and Seneschal.

Caitiff Positions

Caitiff will continue to hold positions as previously ratified.

Tremere Addendum to Infernalism

Addendum to the Infernalism vote as petitioned by Prince Meredith Sturbridge, Clan Tremere: Members of Clan Tremere will be allowed to continue their research and investigations under the individual approval of the Tremere Justicar.

Giovanni Promise

The Promise remains as is with the following addendum: if the Promise is breeched by Clan Giovanni, Princes or their delegates may incapacitate the Giovanni in question and send them to the local Giovanni Prefect (whose names will be made known to the Camarilla) or to the Giovanni Ambassador to the Camarilla (position currently held by Johnathan Giovanni). The Camarilla will be compensated for its efforts by Clan Giovanni if the individual(s) concerned is/are found guilty. If Clan Giovanni is able to prove the charges are unfounded, the Camarilla member(s) concerned will compensate Clan Giovanni for resources lost.

2004 Conclave - San Francisco, CA

Rights of the Primogen and Bloodhunts

The Primogen Council can overturn any Blood Hunt called by their Prince, provided that they collectively expend enough Permanent Status Traits to equal that of the Prince's total Status (Personal plus Positional). Furthermore, this action must be taken within one month of the Blood Hunt being called. By employing it, the Primogen Council strips two Permanent Status Traits from their Prince and causes him a massive loss of face in front of the entire Camarilla. Note: This may require one or more Primogen to expend more than one Permanent Status Trait. Who loses what is a subject for role-play.

Note: If you kill the Prince that declared the Bloodhunt, your Bloodhunt stands until the Justicariate feels like hearing the case." (SEE: The 2007 Status Packet for Details)

On the Kuei-jin: A letter was read from Justicar Masako that are not a threat and the Camarilla is to cease any conflict we may currently be engaged in with them and that they are to be considered our Eastern Cousins. They may walk amongst us as other Neutral "clans" do and we may hold no positions in their courts, nor they in ours. Reparation for the conflict was made as concessions of territory in Los Angeles and San Francisco.

On Archons and Hospitality: It was decided that Prince Jack Sebastien was within his rights to deny Hospitality to an Archon that he saw as being a threat to the Masquerade.

2003 Conclave - Northern Virginia

Elysium

Not even the 2nd tradition can be called to overrule the tenets of Elysium.

Assamites

The Assamites are permitted to hold positions of authority within the cities of the Camarilla. Those positions include all but the positions of Seneschal and Prince.

2001 Conclave - Springfield, IL

• See also: 2001 Conclave - Springfield, IL

Praxis Seizure

A praxis seizure is successful by whomever can hold the Domain. Destruction of the prince before a declaration of praxis is severely frowned upon, but it does not constitute an illegal praxis seizure. Power The power of the prince is absolute within his Domain. The power of the justicars is absolute globally. It is within the prince's right to exercise his Domain powers to earn the ire of the justicars as he sees fit.

Lextalionis

The declaration of Lextalionis is a dire decision. In the event that a prince must change his declaration, he must forfeit a twin-weight of his reputation within the Camarilla, as the price of the scandal such a hasty and ill-though decision illustrates. Note: If you kill the prince that declared a Blood Hunt, the Blood Hunt stands until a justicar, following due consideration of the case, states otherwise. Recorded Media Recorded media of any sort containing evidence of our existence, is to be considered a breach of the Masquerade. As such, it may not be used to accuse another of a breach of the Masquerade. Hospitality In order to gain Hospitality within a Domain, one must present themselves to the Prince, or in the Prince's absence the Seneschal, in person. Modern communications conveniences and powers of the blood are not allowed to work as intermediaries in this.

Amaranth

The princes present at the conclave were given certain instructions regarding the Camarilla's attitudes towards Diablerie. These instructions are still valid. - Princes may grant rite of amaranth.

1998 Conclave - Chicago, IL

• See also: 1998 Conclave - Chicago, IL‎

Non-Camarilla Clans

The mandate accepted under the Brazillian Conclave not to allow Ravnos to hold position within Camarilla Domains was deemed unacceptable for the rest of the World. Ravnos are allowed to hold position within the Camarilla, just as any other citizen from one of the non-Camarilla Clans (save Setite), except for Prince, Seneschal, and Primogen - as mandated by Lord Justicar Lucian."

Lextalionis

The declaration of Lextalionis is a dire decision. In the event that a prince must change his declaration, he must forfeit a twin-weight of his reputation within the Camarilla, as the price of the scandal such a hasty and ill-though decision illustrates. Note: If you kill the prince that declared a Blood Hunt, the Blood Hunt stands until a justicar, following due consideration of the case, states otherwise. Recorded Media Recorded media of any sort containing evidence of our existence, is to be considered a breach of the Masquerade. As such, it may not be used to accuse another of a breach of the Masquerade.

Hospitality

In order to gain Hospitality within a Domain, one must present themselves to the Prince, or in the Prince's absence the Seneschal, in person. Modern communications conveniences and powers of the blood are not allowed to work as intermediaries in this.