
Since the Sabbat's formation, Assamite antitribu have played an important role in the sect and have become some of the most feared warriors of the Sword of Caine. Assamite antitribu typically place more emphasis on following the ideals of their clan than on upholding the sect's purposes, though many of their beliefs coincide. The Angels of Caine seek to bring themselves closer to Caine, whom mainstream Assamites regard as a cursed and corrupt infidel. For some reason, the two clans seem to have guarded respect for each other, for which no one outside can give a plausible reason. Assamite antitribu claim superiority over their independent brethren, whom they despise for accepting the Camarilla's punishment during the Treaty of Thorns. Even thought the curse has since been broken, feelings on the matter have not changed.
Assamite Antitribu serve their clan first and the Sabbat second. They do not revere Haqim. Rather, they see him as they see all loathed antediluvians, as a corrupt, malignant force that will one day rise and devour his children. Instead they seek to grow closer Caine.
Like their brethren, Sabbat Assamites excel at assassination and stealth. Assamite antitribu make up a potent martial force for the sect, which would lose a good deal of discipline and focus without them. Many attain significant status in the sect and rise to prominence as templars, pack leaders and members of the deadly Black Hand. Assamite antitribu rarely assume the responsibilities of pack priests, though many ducti hail from the clan, especially if combat or assassination is their pack's purpose. Some Assamite antitribu form sing-clan packs, but may also be found in more cosmopolitan groups.
Although ardent supporters of the Sabbat and not as fanatical about their beliefs as the independent Assamites, the Angels of Caine are often insular and dismissive of those from other clans. The legacy of the Sabbat Assamites is one of bloodshed and ritual, and those Cainites not of the clan who observe their rites rarely walk away without a shudder, if at all. Every 100 years, they destroy one of their own prominent members, the hulul, as a gesture of favor to their dark father, and many of their practices are similarly grim in nature.
Nickname: Angels of Caine
Appearance: Bear similiar resemblance to their non-Sabbat counterparts, although many more bear the features of European or mixed cultures. Elders wear traditional Middle Eastern or Mesopotamian garb, while young Assamite Antitribu favor a more modern wardrobe, even adopting gang or cultic clothes. As with Assamites, Antitribu's skin grows darker with age.
Haven: They favor communal havens, which may take the form of pack havens, assassins' cells of other Assamite Antitribu, or nests of vampires. Favored locations include refrigerated warehouses, abandoned slums and slaughterhouses, where bodies may be disposed of with minimal difficulty.
Background: Most members of the Assamite Antitribu hail from Middle Eastern, North African, or Asiatic cultures, though these may be several generations removed from their place of origin. Among the higher generations, lineage has grown less important taking a back seat to ability. Newly embraced Kindred do not typically become active in the sect immediately, serving seven-year "apprenticeships" at Black Hand strongholds or under the guidance of skilled masters. These mustajib--deserving ones--must prove themselves to the clan before being offered the opportunity to prove themselves to the sect.
Character Creation: They can come from any racial or ethnic stock, though Middle Eastern and African are most common. Many are ex-soldiers, criminals, holy men, and explorers. Their Natures are usually brusque and direct (and likely violent), but their Demeanors can be anything at all. Physical Attributes tend to be primary as do skills. Common backgrounds include Black Hand membership, Mentor, Generation and sometimes Sabbat Status. Many follow the Path of Caine.
Clans Disciplines: Celerity, Obfuscate, Quietus
Weaknesses:
Organization: The Assamite Antitribu maintain a structure similiar to that of the original Assamite clan. Members follow a hierarchy, unusual among the clans of the Sabbat. Instead of the Old Man of the Mountain, however, they follow the guidance of the hulul, the eldest member of the clan. Every 100 years, the Assamite Antitribu ritually destroy the hulul as an offering to Caine, and one member of the clan is selected to partake of the slain vampire's blood and become the new hulul. The hulu is attended and advised by the shakari, the wisest and most accomplished members of the clan. Vampires below these stations operated much like normal Assamites do, taking assassination contracts and indulging in wanton diablerie.
Quote: You are so frail, I am almost ashamed to take your blood.
Almost.