Whatever the truth regarding the origin of these words, they remain important to us. Perhaps they are actual words spoken by the founder to guide us in our later years (and certainly research undertaken by this writer would suggest this may well be the case) or perhaps they were written by a later member of our clan, or perhaps even by one of another clan.

The origin is unimportant. What is important about these words is how they have affected Clan policy, and indeed how Elder Kindred of other clans perceive us.Thus, regardless of the origin, they have the same effect as if they had came from thefounder

The 21st century is an important one for the Clan. Whilst world-wide we continue to wield arguably the most influence and power of any single Clan, a decline has started to set in- Whilst some level the blame at the upper echelons of our Clan, Personal experience also shows a stagnation which reaches down through all levels.

However, the tide could be changed. Strong bold new initiatives are already beginning to take place. Our Clans drive to technological markets is slowly beginning to form. However a certain amount of backsliding has also become the case. This document is intended to document the Traditions of our Clan, so that whilst these changes occur, we do not forget who we are.

It is the belief of this writer that were we to abandon Tradition, then we would abandon all that makes us the Ventrue. We would abandon everything that has madeus powerful. And most importantly of all, we would abandon the dignity for which we have worked so long and hard.

We are an old Clan. We are a powerful Clan. This carries with it certain responsibilities.

Which we are adept at fulfilling.

Jason Peterson, Childe of Caradoc