Nosferatu
In the strict hierarchical world of vampire society, the title of Nosferatu ranks above all others. The title is taken from the name of the first vampire, who appeared after the events of the Cataclysm. Nosferatu rose in the old kingdom of Borith, which became the Northern Wastes. From there, he began his dark conversions of mortals into the race of bloodthirsty night stalkers known as vampires. He was the undisputed ruler until his unexpected murder. Out of respect for their fallen liege and lord, the vampires equated his name with the greatest rank and title. Whoever holds the title of Nosferatu, is the undisputed ruler of the Vampiric Aristocracy.
The title is not easily given, and doesn't go to just any vampire lord. The vampire elders convene from their solitary confinements to meet with the other vampire lords. They are the ones who officially declare the new Nosferatu, bestowing the title upon the vampire who they deem most worthy. Worthy in terms of their power, wisdom, judgement, and character.
Qualifications
In order for a candidate for the title of Nosferatu to be considered, the vampire elders look at several different things. Firstly, the candidate must be a higher vampire of considerable power and rank. Secondly, they look at certain aspects of their character. These characteristics are things such as the vampire's knowledge, wisdom, intuition, character, their judgement, etc.
Requirements
In order for one to be considered for the title of Nosferatu, one must be a higher vampire of considerable power and rank. Thus, this tends to make the vampire lords of each major bloodline the primary candidates.
Appointment
When a new Nosferatu is to be chosen, the vampire elders summon the vampire lords and their retinue to Gumtar Castle. There, the vampire elders announce who will bear the new title. It is believed by scholars that the vampire elders are incredibly old and powerful beings, who may convene telepathically across great distances to discuss who the new Nosferatu shall be. It is hypothesized that the elders are connected to every vampire in some way, and are able to feel what they feel, giving them their insight into the candidates for leadership.
Benefits
Undisputed power and authority over all vampire kind.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
The only way for the Nosferatu to be removed or dismissed, is to be killed. Vampires are immortal creatures, but they can still be killed through means of violence.
History
After the death of Nosferatu, the vampiric aristocracy created the title of Nosferatu to venerate and bring respect to their former ruler, and to the first of their kind. The vampire elders summoned the vampire lords and Jorg Bathory was poised to be chosen as the new Nosferatu. This was highly contested by the vampire lord Conrad von Halter. Von Halter accused Bathory of murdering Nosferatu in order to gain power, and the Vampiric Civil War had begun. This was a centuries long conflict fought out in the Northern Wastes where von Halter and his supporters arose as the victors. With no one to contest his power, Conrad von Halter became the new Nosferatu. After his disappearance, it is believed the title went with him as the vampire elders never reconvened to declare a new ruler.
Cultural Significance
The rank and title of Nosferatu is held with a certain mystical reverence and terror. Among vampire kind, the Nosferatu is the immortal leader of their race. They carry on the legacy of the first vampire by bearing his name. For all intents and purposes, they are the representation of all vampires. Outside the vampiric aristocracy, the title is regarded with terror, fear, and awe.
Notable Holders
- Nosferatu
- Jorg Bathory (Disputed)
- Conrad von Halter
Status
Non-Existent (Disputed)
Creation
After the death of Nosferatu
Form of Address
Your Eminence
Equates to
In the other realms of Laurentia, the title of Nosferatu equates to that of a King. Unlike the kings of men and elves, where their power may not wholly be absolute due to certain traditions, laws, or other measures that may be put in place, the rule of the Nosferatu is undisputed and without question. Their word is law. Any who do not yield face a swift, brutal, and violent judgement.
Source of Authority
Vampire Elders
Length of Term
Life
First Holder
Current Holders
Past Holders
Related Locations
Related Organizations
Comments