A Cainite will not go without blood as long as she claims domain (regardless of its size) and she can protect it by keeping other Cainites out. Claiming domain over a tavern means a near limitless supply of victims, while an isolated hamlet would be hard pressed to sustain more than a single vampire. Domain often denotes more than influence and protection, it grants the Caonite sole feeding rights within its boundaries. For the last 200 years, Cainites of all ranks and clans have been desperately fighting over shrinking domains, reaching a murderous frenzy in the last few decades. The Tradition of Domain has always been central to Cainites, and such is especially the case in these times of feudal relationships and vampiric overpopulation. Accept its responsibilities, minister thy domain and pay others the same respect thou expect.” Thus spoke Caine. By right, thou art allowed to hunt within the bounds of thy domain, its blood thine own. All will present themselves when entering, and thou shall protect them in turn.
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Thou art its master and all will respect this or suffer thy wrath. “As I am master of Nod, thy domain is thine own concern. Like mortal kings who rule through divine investiture, princes cite the First Tradition, and Caine’s covenant, as proof of their mandate to lead just as Caine “stands before and above” all Cainites.
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Princes and lords, like-wise, look to the First Tradition to legitimize their rule. In turn, those who seek power follow the covenant, believing in its hidden promise of power in return for faithful service. Those who abhor the curse look to the First Tradition in hopes of finding salvation, that in following Caine’s ways they will find redemption. In adhering to the traditions, Cainites confirm their faith in Cain and their damned natures – for better or worse. Through the dictates of the Old Ways, Caine is present and not a figure of myth and legend. Cainites look to the Old Ways and the covenant of Caine to aknowledge their spiritual link to Caine. It is through the First Tradition in particular, and all the Traditions in general, that Cainites recognize Cain as monarch of the night and affirm their lineage as sublime beings, both cursed and blessed. The notion of covenant is central in understanding the Old Ways in the Dark Medieval. Renounce me and renounce all hope.” Thus spoke Caine. I stand before and above thee as god-regent. “Thy blood makes thee my brood, crafted in my image.