While viewed as outsiders by the Trinity families, just as any other Latin faction, the Tremere warrant special attention. This is because unlike every other faction of outsiders, the Warlocks have been given a guarded welcome by the Byzantine Cainites (with the notable exception of the Obertus family, who have categorically refused to recognise them). Indeed, perhaps owing to the unique services that they can offer, the Tremere find ready welcome in both Byzantine and Latin circles. Few would turn down a magical ward on their haven in these uncertain times, and it is thought that the Warlocks offer other services not so readily advertised. In return for their services, the Tremere have been granted feeding rights along the Mese and in the Latin Quarter. Their propensity for keeping secrets has naturally piqued the interest of all parties in this city of intrigue, where mysteries are better currency than silver.

Abetorius Maior is a frequent visitor to both Antonian and Narsene blood feasts. He spends rather more time socialising with the Greeks than the Latins however, perhaps because his interests apparently lie in setting up more of his “chantries” in other cities throughout the empire. His childe and chief agent, Calleo Abetorius Minor, is a frequent attendee of Bishop Alfonzo’s court, where he actively attempts to displace the favour shown towards Markus Musa Giovanni and offers the greater range of services that the Tremere have at their disposal. Another high ranking apprentice, Vasileous, frequents the city, where he socialises with both Latin and Greek sea captains. Vasileous owns a ship, and frequently sails both the Aegean and the Black Seas on his master’s business.

It is known that several more Warlocks take shelter at their chantry in Exokionion, which is protected by all manner of strange creatures in addition to the magical wards that have allowed them to insinuate themselves into Cainite society. Dogs, lions and bats constructed of stone patrol the grounds within their walls, and a number of Gargoyles also guard the villa itself. These defences were enhanced only recently, after an attack on the chantry by unknown enemies. The wards of the chantry are extraordinary, and observers were stunned that even through the violence that ensued, not a single sound was heard outside the boundaries of the property.

ORGANISATION

Whatever hierarchy that the Tremere of Constantinople feel compelled to follow is largely unknown outside of their own secretive circles. It is known that Abetorius Maior refers to himself variously (and rather vaguely) as Regent, Lord and Pontifex, causing speculation that he is some sort of ruling priest of the secretive clan. His childe, Calleo calls himself an apprentice, as do the others who have introduced themselves, although there does appear to be some sort of system of seniority involved. No one amongst either the Byzantine nor the Latin factions can make any sense of the Tremere hierarchy, and it is a subject of much speculation amongst idle courtiers.

A ROSTER OF KNOWN TREMERE OF THE CHANTRY, AS WELL AS THEIR SERVANTS

• Abetorius Maior, Regent of the Chantry of Exokionion (5th gen. Childe of Meerlinda, e. turn of the 12th century)
• Calleo Abetorius Minor, Apprentice (6th gen. Childe of Abetorius Maior, e. mid 12th century)
• Vasileous the Mariner, Apprentice (7th gen. Childe of Celestyn, e. early 12th century)
• It is thought that as many as three Gargoyles, numerous dogs, lions and bats of stone, and several mortal magi also lair at the Exokionion Chantry.

CURRENT CONCERNS

The interests of the Tremere are fourfold. Every action that they undertake within the city is strategically directed to accomplish one of these goals, or deal with one of these problems. Firstly, they seek to ingratiate themselves with all factions. They do this by the tried and true method of offering their magical services in the form of wards on havens and less specialised, more secretive spells.

Secondly, they appear to be searching for a rogue ancilla of their own clan – one Theresa Kymena. The Tremere were at first quite secretive about their lines of questioning concerning Theresa, but at this point they have effectively cast the net as wide as possible, effectively putting a price on her head.

Thirdly, they are interested in news of any Salubri fugitives, and offer a bounty either in coin, services or favours to those who can provide reliable information leading to the capture of one of these “demon-worshippers”.

Lastly, it was observed by a number of interested parties that the Exokionion Chantry was attacked by unknown assailants early in January of 1203. It appears that the attack was highly organised, and perhaps magical in nature. Speculation is rampant in Elysium that there is some sort of trouble in the ranks of the “wizards’ society”, and that the Byzantine Tremere have run afoul of it.

RELATIONS WITH OTHER GROUPS

The Byzantine Tremere are welcome in most districts of the city, save wherever the Obertus hold sway. They were voted free passage throughout Constantinople by the Quaesitor Tribunal in AD 1199 by a vote of 2-1 (Petronius and Anna Comnena in favour, Symeon against), and a number of them frequent both the Latin and Byzantine districts. Abetorius himself looks to the Antonians to further his designs abroad, and can frequently be found in the Great Palace. Vasileous works on establishing influence with his fellow Greeks, and Calleo with the Latins. For the most part, the crux of their conversations focuses on how they can offer security, and what they want for it- the location of one Theresa Kymena, as well as any “demon-worshipping” Salubri that strangers may know of.

RELATIONS WITH OUTSIDERS

The Tremere do not discuss the inner workings or their goals beyond those outlined above. Outsiders are neither welcome in their chantry, nor entertained in good humour when lines of enquiry revolve around their private business. They offer their services to all, provided that one of their goals is met in doing so. Tremere from other chantries will find a ready welcome at the Exokionion villa, but are encouraged not to get involved in the intrigues of the local Cainites.

INTERNAL RELATIONS

Absolutely nothing of note is known about the internal relations of the Tremere. They put forward a united front, and are worshipfully, predictably reverent of their master, Abetorius. They neither volunteer, nor appreciate enquiry, of the inner workings of their organisation, and always back each other up in both word and deed. Naturally, the rest of the city wonders what they are hiding, and many quarters would pay well to find out…

To be Continued