The Quinzel Files: Psychiatrist's Forenote
Dear AJ,
Since the disappearance of my sire (may his soul rot in hell), it has been far easier for me to have proper access to the other children of Malkav in Ashford, and provide them with proper psychotherapy to those in need. Nevertheless, this is time-consuming and my position (and seemingly endless, and often pointless, meetings of the Council of Primogen) take up more of my time than I would like.
I appreciate you helping me in keeping an eye on some of them. The following files attempt to give a summary of my most up-to-date assessment and other important details on each of them. Primogen Marina Vasilyeva has been kind enough to grant us access to the Nosferatu's SchreckNET files - at least some of them (and likely redacted or limited versions - although every bit of information helps) and I have provided links to the files. Note that although the links are provided, I am told that it may take some time for all the files to be accessible as Marina is having some trouble getting her clanmates to make the necessary changes to the files and network access rights. I believe the SchreckNET files areas of biographic information and tips for diplomacy may be worth checking up.
To avoid the appearance of avoidance, I have included myself in this list - although I have asked Dr Schofield, a trusted colleague and ally, to carry out my evaluation, rather than perform a self-evaluation which could be biased or inaccurate. I believe she has attached a personal note to you in this file, which you can access via your digital signature but I myself cannot. At risk of offending you, I am giving you access to your own file - there shouldn't be any surprises there as obviously we discuss your situation during our counselling sessions.
The Quinzel Files: About the Malkavian "Clan Weakness"
Although I hate using the term clan weakness, it is un undeniable commonly-known fact that each and every child of Malkav suffers from some form of mental illness, dysfunction or derangement (if not multiple). This can vary from high-functional conditions such as Synesthesia; to extremely dangerous ones such as Schizophrenia, Self-Annihilation Impulse or Sociopathy (now technically classified as Antisocial Personality Disorder). Some learned kindred even realise that Malkavian derangements often defy conventional DSM-5 classification - there may be commonality and basis with Cainite mental health issues, but as Kindred are undead and no longer have body chemistry that affects the mind, they should not suffer from many of the mental health ailments that mortals do. Indeed, it is possible for Malkavians to have multiple derangements that would be biochemically impossible for a mortal. As such a Malkavian may not suffer a single overriding, clinically-analytical derangement, but one or more derangements form from a mix of various conditions. Most are aware that, like any kindred but more so, it is possible for Malkavians to gain additional derangements over time.
Few kindred, however, know that Malkavians may even change derangements over time - even Malkavians themselves. I have documented evidence of Elder Malkavians who began their unlives with one derangement (often ailments present before the Embrace, though typically they become more severe), then years later that derangement appears cured but a totally different and unrelated derangement has formed in its place. This chance can occur due to therapy, or just natural and unexplainable recourse, much like who we were as mortal teens are not who we are as adults psychologically or emotionally. In the case of psychotherapy, I have also recorded evidence that curing a Malkavian's derangement (in the rare case that is even possible, such as with phobias) results in the patient almost immediately developing a different derangement. It appears nature is not the only one to abhor a vacuum - the blood of Malkav does too. I have long studied this phenomenon, first highlighted by the respected Malkavian physician Dr Douglas Netchurch, and use this knowledge in the attempt to try to help Malkavians functionally live with their conditions, rather than attempting to cure their mental health issues, as psychologists often attempt. This is because I understand we cannot ever completely cure the children of Malkav and believe that, for certain conditions, it is better to live with a comparatively benign and high-functionality condition, than cure it only for a possibly far more debilitating ones to take its place. As the expression goes, "better the devil you know."
The inverse applies only to those Malkavians with derangements that prohibit functionality or cause severe risk to themselves, other kindred or the Masquerade; in these cases, I am actively trying to provoke a switch in derangements - whether naturally, or by curing their derangement. As evidenced by my own sire, who's sociopathy I was at best able to mildly contain the worst excesses but never properly restrain or cure, I am not always successful. But I digress, we have an eternity to keep trying, succeeding, failing and learning, and an entire clan of patients to help and learn from...
The Quinzel Files: Active Patients
The following patients covered in this file are listed by real name, ie what they were born with or legally registered. The names they respond to, if different, are provided in brackets. Failure to use this name could inversely affect the ability to converse with them - potentially becoming hostile in some cases.
- Columban, Charlie
- Davis, Abigail (Abi)
- Holgain, Tobias (Ipsissimus)
- Kliethermes, Christoph
- Ledger, Arthur
- Kunis, Lilian (Lolth)
- Landsdale, Zachary (Kelsar)
- Lantry, Andrew (Andrew/Mandy/Brick/Johannes)
- Lundgren, Maxim
- Oswig, Chloe
- Quinzel, Helen
- Taggart, Linda
- Weston, Laurence
- Zingmark, Kathleen (Astridsdotter, Evelina)
The Quinzel Files: Closed Cases
The following were acknowledged members of our clan that I either actively assisted, or secretly kept files on. All are now deceased.
The Quinzel Files: Case Profiles
Case Profile: Columban, Charlie
Full Article: Charlie Columban
- Real/Birth Name: Charles Marcellus Columban.
- Preferred Name: Charlie Columban.
- Mortal Alias: Charlie Columban.
- Place of Origin: Costa Mesa, California, USA.
- Height: 5'8" (174 cm)
- Occupation: Civil Rights lawyer / Conspiracy blogger.
- Apparent Age: Mid-40s.
- Embraced: 1957
- Sire: Ken Adachi.
- Prognosis: Paranoia.
Prognosis
Considering how renown the patient is for his outlandish conspiracy theories, it is easy to misdiagnose the patient as suffering from Grandious Delusions or Schizotypal - but in fact, although there may possibly be elements of either, neither of these are his overriding derangement. The patient has been heavily invested in conspiracy theories his entire existence, but although he believes them, he is in sufficient enough control of his beliefs and thoughts (and more importantly, his reaction to them) to not be considered a mental illness. Or put another way, he may believe that the Camarilla is secretly a part of the Illuminati and controlled by Alien overlords (which, he does), but he doesn't run around wearing a tinfoil hat or sunglasses that he believes lets him see subliminal messages for control that the aliens have displayed. Ultimately, all his theories are based on investigation and "evidence."
His derangement is extreme paranoia which, I admit, can make the appearance seem moot to the outside observer. Whilst he is in control of his faculties, he is constantly worried that "they" are on to him and want to silence him. Although he believes in "fighting the fight" he is wary of everyone and everything and, therefore, extremely slow to trust. Attempting to use Disciplines such as Dominate or Presence to calm or sway him may work short-term, but will make him incredibly hostile the moment the effect ends - confirming in his mind that the kindred who affected him must be part of "them" because, why else would they be forced to coerce him? Even manipulation via normal non-supernatural means can backfire the same way if he perceives that he was manipulated to the benefit of the Illuminati (and their Alien allies). When things go wrong for him, he naturally attributes blames to others - believing they're out to get him. Considering how badly he's wound up the Ventrue (he believes the entire clan are Illuminati and controlled by Aliens), unfortunately, he's not always wrong.
Other Information
Charlie is an outspoken member of the Anarch Movement. In fact, he is one of the oldest publicly known Anarchs, as most Anarchs kept their true allegiances hidden during Prince Kratus' reign for fear of execution. But in life Charlie was a civil rights lawyer (and a good one) and, although he still does that within the kine community for income and the right causes, he was embraced in a domain that has been a conflict zone between the Anarchs and Camarilla (and now, the Cathayans) and believed in the Illuminati conspiracy - so he naturally politically gravitated towards the Anarchs as the Camarilla's methodology would have almost seemed like incontrovertible proof of his beliefs. Therefore, he quickly put his political and legal acumen into studying the Traditions of the Camarilla, and has become a very good lawyer in "kindred law" as a result. Because of this knowledge, he has walked a very fine line successfully during Kratus' reign and prevented any actions that could allow Kratus to legally execute him. Kratus may have been a vile despot, but he was still a Camarilla Prince and subject to the Traditions, else risk the ire of the Inner Council and a visit from a Justicar. With the new agreement with the Anarchs, and a pro-Anarch prince and Anarch supporters even amongst the Primogen, this would seem to be a golden age (security-wise) for Charlie.
Case Profile: Davis, Abigail
Full Article: Abi Davis
- Real/Birth Name: Abigail Grace Davis.
- Preferred Name: Abi Davis.
- Mortal Alias: Abi Davis / @Ashfordabi_18 (online).
- Place of Origin: Ashford, California, USA.
- Height: 5'8" (173 cm)
- Occupation: Waitress / Social Media Celebrity.
- Apparent Age: Late teens.
- Embraced: 2017
- Sire: Paul Bairstow.
- Prognosis: Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder.
Prognosis
During her mortal life, the patient suffered from social anxiety and eating disorders, which led to depression, none of which was ever properly treated with therapy, but was managed via supportive family and friends. The Embrace appears to have suddenly ended both the depression and eating disorder, but some social anxiety remains, leading to a low self-image and innate desire for appreciation and admiration from others.
Since the Embrace, however, the patient has begun to suffer dissociative episodes and it is my opinion that she is suffering from a form of Depersonalization-derealization disorder (DPDR). An unusual disorder that falls under the spectrum of dissociative disorders, a close relative/variant of Dissociative Personality Disorder (commonly and formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder), DPDR is similar in that stressful situations can trigger dissociation. Unlike DPD in which an alternate personality takes over control, DPDR results in the individual entering a Fugue-like state, seemingly going into a form of sleepwalking. Unlike Fugue, however, in which individuals have no personality and go into a form of autopilot, DPDR sufferers are still aware and have their own personality, aims and so forth - except they feel like they are no longer in control of their body. The patient once described it to me as "Having a dissociative episode is like being a stranger in my own life, a tourist in my own body. I forget who I am, where I live, what I'm doing. Everything around me feels like a dream or like a movie happening to someone else. Sometimes, I even forget that I exist." This means that her actions are influenced by herself, but without direct control - therefore appearing to outside appearance to be somewhere between a fugue state and confusion.
As these episodes are typically triggered by stress and the individuals are typically aware of what is occurring around them (if unable to make proper sense of it), when the patient suffers a dissociative episode she can often be helped by talking calmly to her and trying to calm her, reassociate her sense of self, and trying to assuage regarding or remove the source of stress. She is mostly a danger to herself in these episodes, so simply being escorted to a safe place and monitored is greatly helpful in itself, even if no further action is taken to pull her out of her dissociation. Typically, even after recovering from an episode, the patient remains a little confused and disoriented for a period - although no longer fugue-like.
Other Information
Abi is of the 14th generation and suffers from the condition known as "thin blood." Whilst this has little medical relevance, it is important to note that prior to the Sabbat Crusade the Scourge would have killed her on sight, without any mercy or need for justification. Indeed, the Scourge has killed many of our clanmates without remorse or hesitation, as many of our clan have been "illegally Embraced" as often the Embrace is done as a reaction to a bad feeding or death caused as a result of a child of Malkav's derangement - typically resulting in the deaths of both the childe and the sire. On occasion, when we have learnt about one of these cases before the Scourge, we have managed to make representation to the Prince. In some cases, if we have proven mental incompetence not likely to be repeated, this has resulted in only the destruction of the childe; but Kratus' stance was that if the Malkavians were too unstable to be trusted to uphold the Traditions, then they deserved execution anyhow. As part of the Crusade alliance pact between the Camarilla and the Anarchs, the position of Scourge has not been reinstated since the Scourge's death in the Crusade. Additionally, as part of the agreement between our Clan and the new Prince, Malkavians have increased Embrace rights and will not be summarily executed for spontaneous Embraces (though they may still be executed or exiled, just not arbitrarily). You will recall that I argued in Abi's defence - that she was not a willing recruit to the Sabbat, and hates her sire (who brought shame on our Clan by defecting to and aiding the Sabbat in their assault) because he killed her family then Embraced and abandoned her - and she was allowed to exist despite the conditions surrounding her Embrace. However, as she is of the 14th generation, she is effectively Outcast - not considered a full member of the Camarilla and, ironically, lower on the rights and social totem pole than Independent clans or those who associate with the Anarch Movement. This means that as far as the Camarilla is concerned, she is effectively considered an Independent (at least, when it suits their convenience - I would be willing to wager that they'll remind her she is of a Camarilla clan when it suits them to do so) and has no say or defence. Quite literally, Camarilla kindred could assault her with little fear of repercussion but, if she defended herself too effectively, she could receive punishment. She will never be allowed domain, status or Embrace rights, and will often be barred from Elysium events. However, she is a child of Malkav, as are we - and I refuse to allow an innocent victim of our Clan to be thrown to the curb because of social discrimination by the Ivory Tower and their Gehenna-paranoia. I hope that you feel the same way.
Case Profile: Holgain, Tobias
Full Article: Ipsissimus Satanus
- Real/Birth Name: Holgain, Tobias
- Preferred Name: Ipsissimus Satanus
- Mortal Alias: Ipsissimus Satanus
- Place of Origin: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
- Height: 5'11" (180 cm)
- Occupation: High Priest of Yidhra (Cultist).
- Apparent Age: Early 30s.
- Embraced: Unknown (believed to be around 1940s).
- Sire: Madam Yi
- Prognosis: Schizophrenia.
Prognosis
The patient suffers from schizophrenia, which manifests as a withdrawal from reality, violent changes in behaviour, and hallucinations. Not much is known about his past, but patient claims to have been embraced by Madam Yi, an avatar of Yidhra, the Mother of Darkness, an Outer God in the Cthulhu Mythos. The fact that the Cthulhu Mythos was a fiction invented by H.P.Lovecraft and not a traditional religion (even to pagans, Satanic cults or other extremist beliefs) is completely lost on him (and should not be pushed - like all religious fanatics, intense challenges against his "faith" will quickly provoke anger). Whilst other schizophrenics create hallucinations or thoughts based on desire, trauma or circumstance, in this case, he has melded a form of Grandious Delusions with his schizophrenic beliefs.
Nonetheless, as schizophrenics go, Ipsissimus is relatively "stable." His activities and beliefs, although twisted (see below), are kept within a framework that is "sustainable" at least as far as the Camarilla is concerned. One Million Moms and virtually every Christian religion may decry him as a lunatic and his activities as improper, but ultimately he has not broken any laws (or at least, none proven) that could be used to get the authorities to take action against him.
Other Information
The patient's beliefs might be considered humorous were it not for the fact that Ipsissimus is a highly charismatic and influential figure - and an ancilla, if his claims of being embraced around 1940 are correct. Although he arrived in Ashford in 1990, he quickly established a Cult of Yidhra, which has now survived and grown over the three decades since its inception. The cult are open about their existence, but secretive about who is a member, their number, or their activities. Various organisations have attempted to take action against them, but the same legal arguments that allow the Masonic Temples of the Freemasons to protect their privacy and activities, also protect the Cult of Yidhra. Many people simply believe the cult is a BDSM alternative to the Freemasons - and truthfully, there is little evidence to the contrary as visible practitioners resemble a cross between heavy bondage enthusiasts and emos - and so most dismiss them as irrelevant. But the cult has grown and has tendrils reaching out subtly that Ipsissimus can use to his own ends. The problem is, he does not reveal what those ends are. So far, his activities have not broken the masquerade, but the Camarilla watches him and his blood cult carefully as they are one step away from getting us all into trouble. And if his cult blows up the Masquerade, all the goodwill our clan has built up during and after the Crusade will be all for nought.
Personal note: he gives me the creeps. I get a distinct impression that he is playing a role as much as he believes it; there's something else underneath, perhaps more sinister being hidden in plain sight. He's proven not to be Sabbat but, I can't help but wonder, if there may be something far worse underneath yet to be revealed. Be careful, lest you find yourself being seduced into his cult too.
Case Profile: Kliethermes, Christoph
Full Article: Christoph Kliethermes
- Real/Birth Name: Christoph Xaver Gruber.
- Preferred Name: Christoph Kliethermes.
- Mortal Alias: Christoph Kliethermes.
- Place of Origin: Vienna, Austria.
- Height: 170 cm (5'7")
- Occupation: Civil Engineer.
- Apparent Age: Late-40s.
- Embraced: 1948.
- Sire: Earl Williams.
- Prognosis: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Prognosis
It is tempting to make jokes about the famous German reputation for precision engineering when talking about this patient, who is an Austrian (of German nationality) and a Civil Engineer, who suffers from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Christoph became a Civil Engineer in Germany after being impressed by Central Powers' trench engineering and fortifications when he served in the Great War, and was one of the initial members of Organisation Todt (OT) which worked on Germany's new Autobahn and then many of the Third Reich's projects, especially in occupied France and Russia. A career in which precision is important and mistakes could cost lives. Christoph admits to always being good with mathematics and an eye for detail even when human. It appears that becoming a child of Malkav has turned this from being careful into an outright obsession fear to ensure that everything is right (to prevent discomfort or harm occurring from a lack of due vigilance or proper care) which duels the compulsion for symmetry and detail. Whilst this can have benefits for his occupation - making his projects very detailed, safe and brilliant, it also limits his creativity and, especially, his ability to meet deadlines and work reliably as he easily becomes obsessed with minor details. When a draft proposal is required, Christoph will likely make several - and probably not be properly satisfied - and so it is common that projects he personally overseas will have to have open timescales or easily run behind schedule.
Comparatively, however, Christoph's derangement is quite benign. It consumes a lot of his attention and energy, but otherwise has little harmful effect - perhaps on occasion some social problems, such as retelling a joke or statement multiple times until he feels it was "done right." Many believe that those of our Clan who did not convert back to the original Clan Discipline of Dementation during the Great Prank and remained with Dominate, known colloquially as Carriers, suffer less severe derangements than those of us who reverted - and Christoph is certainly a case that adds credence to the argument.
Other Information
Another popular theory regarding Carriers is that of the phenomenon that has come to be known as the Malkavian Madness Network (alternatively, Malkavian Time, or simply the Network) that seems to link all children of Malkav. Whilst there are many theories about what the Network is, it appears that it is somehow linked to the Discipline of Dementation. Although it is possible for Carriers to be taught Dementation (as could any non-Malkavian), Carriers appear to lack the "unexplained insight" that non-Carriers have. Certainly, whenever I have purposefully sent messages out on the network (something I am pleased to see you have started being able to do yourself), Christoph never seems to get the message. This should be remembered, as he will need to be communicated and informed in more normal means. He has an eidetic memory, so he can be trusted on to be given information once and remember it - even if that is an appointment several months ahead of time, mentioned in passing in conversation.
It is worth noting that Christoph's ghoul, and the CFO of his business, is his actual wife since his mortal days. One of those cases of a kindred ghouling someone out of love. She has been a ghoul long enough that if she were to miss a feeding would begin aging about ten times faster than normal. Christoph is actually a kind and compassionate man (for a kindred), and does appear to care for his wife Cecylia dearly.
Case Profile: Ledger, Arthur
Full Article: AJ
- Real/Birth Name: Arthur James Ledger.
- Preferred Name: AJ.
- Mortal Alias: Arthur James Ledger.
- Place of Origin: Ashford, California, USA.
- Height: 6'1" (185 cm)
- Occupation: Musician.
- Apparent Age: Mid-20s
- Embraced: 2006.
- Sire: Helen Quinzel
- Prognosis: Schizophrenia.
Prognosis
Patient suffers from a form of Schizophrenia that typically manifests as subconcious thoughts, impulses and desires - sometimes mundane, othertimes darker - manifested as hallucinations. These hallucinations are, to the patient, his reality. His mind creates figments, or imaginary characters, which often have different roles - one character may be that friend who always gives sensible, caring advice; whilst another might be that friend always encouraging you to do something that may be fun but likely to get you into trouble. There are times that the hallucinations are obvious and overpowering - such as one of his most disturbing ones of an adolescent girl, seemingly the victim of some tragedy, who appears seemingly randomly to torment AJ, often with blood-curdling screams or disturbing imagery. As this figment has appeared at times he has been with other kindred, they can confirm the non-presence of the girl and therefore the presumption that it is a Figment. Unfortunately many of the patient's other figments are unknown. Unless he was to quite literally ensure that everyone he speaks to at any point, he asks a third party (who he knows not to be a figment) if they can see the other, he can never be completely sure if anyone he speaks to is a real person or a figment. Other than the perception to others of seeing the patient potentially having conversations or arguments with apparently no-one (an obvious sign of madness), this can also be potentially risky as he may follow the advice, lead or do favours for figments, which could lead to him getting into trouble.
Other Information
Keeping a diary where you enter information about people you know and converse with - who, location, date and time, and if anyone else was involved in the conversation and can testify to the presence/absence of the other, may help identify who is a figment. Ignoring the figments even after knowing that's what they are, is a different matter. Some figments you may be able to make arrangements with to find a way to live with them whilst others may become aggressive if you learn they are figments and attempt to get rid of them.
Case Profile: Kunis, Lilian
Full Article: Lolth
- Real/Birth Name: Lilian Kunis.
- Preferred Name: Lolth.
- Mortal Alias: Lilian Kunis.
- Place of Origin: San Diego, California, USA.
- Height: 5'4" (162 cm)
- Occupation: Musician.
- Apparent Age: Mid-20s.
- Embraced: Unknown (believed 2010).
- Sire: Unknown
- Prognosis: Grandiose Delusions; plus either Antisocial Personality Disorder or Desensitization
Prognosis
Little is known about Lolth other than that her birth name was Lilian (a name she has discarded and acknowledges only as a fact of her past) and that she arrived in Ashford not long ago. She is reluctant to speak about her past (states it is no-ones business but her own) though as admitted to having effectively fled from San Diego because her birth parents were/are actively searching for her after she disappeared one night, with her boyfriend being found exsanguinated. Though she won't speak about the incident, it is believed that she was embraced recently and likely lost control during the feeding, exsanguinating her boyfriend, and was then forced to go into hiding to preserve the Masquerade - as well as hide from kindred repercussions. Certainly, since arriving in Ashford she has been very careful in her feeding.
The interesting thing is that she suffers from what I believe is a Grandious Delusion (and one found occasionally even to kindred outside the clan) that she believes she is still mortal. Whenever she is spoken to about being kindred, she will abjectly state "I'm not a vampire" despite the fact she's been witnessed feeding and moving as quick as could be expected by a neonate employing Celerity. Nonetheless, she appears to "humour" us and quite enjoy our company if we are intellectually stimulating to her.
She has shown an incredible lack of empathy and social emotion, however. This inclines me to believe she may either have Desensitization, perhaps brought by the curse of Malkav or as a coping mechanism by her derangement to cope with the "horror" of becoming Kindred and having to feed on others (that is to say, to not feel guilt for her actions, her mind shuts off the ability to feel emotion). Another possible diagnosis, possibly more concerning and one I think more probable, is that she has developed Antisocial Personality Disorder - what would have been called Sociopathy prior to the recent DSM-V manual reclassification. Certainly, she exhibits the classic symptoms - a lack of social emotions regarding others, especially the kine, who are there simply as tools to be used, for her entertainment, or as lunch. Even kindred she has little feeling towards beyond how they may entertain her, be useful to her or otherwise have value in bothering to socialise with. She appears to show little remorse for any actions, such as when she accidentally over-drinks and kills during feeding - making me concerned for her humanitas. However she does exhibit emotions for things she finds interesting, entertaining and gratifying - as is common for sociopaths. And most especially typical for sociopaths, she is easily angered when she doesn't get what she wants, and prone to getting violent (often in a cold, calculated vengeful way rather than immediate lashing out violently).
Other Information
Lolth appears to be a Carrier and therefore does not receive messages from the Network. She needs to be contacted directly. After much nagging she has agreed to accepting a mobile phone I provided for us to contact her, but it's a proverbial toss of the dice if she has it on her, or if she has even remembered/bothered to put it on charge. Effectively Lolth is content to just be left alone to do her own thing. For the most part, we can respect this, but the Camarilla rarely lets neonates do what they want - and are twitchy about them stepping on elder's toes such as hunting in their domains, and Lolth seems to show no respect at all for the Camarilla's Traditions as regards elders, domains and the like. I think she would be a natural fit with the Anarch Movement, were she not so completely apathetic about any kind of social contact with other kindred.
Case Profile: Landsdale, Zachary
Full Article: Kelsar
- Real/Birth Name: Zachary Landsdale.
- Preferred Name: Kelsar.
- Mortal Alias: Kelsar.
- Place of Origin: Ashford, California, USA.
- Height: 6'1" (185 cm)
- Occupation: Comic/Graphic Novel Artist.
- Apparent Age: Early 30s.
- Embraced: 2009.
- Sire: Dane Rouselle.
- Prognosis: Grandiose Delusions; plus Self-Annihilation Impulse.
Prognosis
Almost immediately after his Embrace, the patient adopted the identity of "Kelsar" - a Vulcan from the Star Trek tv series. Unsurprisingly, in the early first few days his wife became concerned about his strange, obsessive behaviour and it which led to an argument that caused him to frenzy. He would have certainly killed his wife, had it not been for the intervention of "Tribble" their family dog - who ended up exsanguinated instead, but bought his wife time to flee and seek help - which was how I was, fortunately, able to intercede in time to both protect the Masquerade and prevent Kelsar's destruction. Had Kelsar been Embraced by a local kindred, he would have certainly been destroyed - but as he was Embraced during the San Diego Comic Con, and therefore by a likely Anarch it was actually possible to convince Kratus to offer some leniency in this case.
Because of the adoption of this persona, it would be easy to diagnose the patient with Grandious Delusions, but I do not believe this to be the case. I believe the patient suffers from a derangement unique to the kindred condition (including outside of our Clan) known as Self-Annihilation Impulse. This stems from a deep sense of revulsion for the newly embraced kindred as to their new condition, and terror at the thought of immortality. The revulsion is entirely unconscious, however, but results in a death wish (and often, a morbid streak) to end their condition - although direct suicide is not typical, as the survival part of the individual's personality fights the revulsion, often by creating delusions, disconnection or dissociation as a coping mechanism: such is the case with this patient, who has clung to the belief that he is a "Vulcan" as a way to internally justify the change in his condition as Vulcans are much stronger and longer-lived than humans, and acting on logic intrinsically helps resist the urges of the beast. However any basic knowledge of Star Trek would know that Vulcans have no issues with eating food or daylight, and therefore these are gaping holes in the patient's protective delusion that can be exploited by others - dangerously so. Using these (or any other "evidence") to prove he is not a Vulcan but kindred causes the personality clash and revulsion to go from subtle and internal conflict, to outright overriding horror. When this occurs, the patient will become self-destructive - again, not directly suicidal, but close enough such as breaching the masquerade by talking to a mortal with authority or ability to spread the information, or causing conflict with the Sheriff or in Elysium. Actions that would not directly get him killed, but would have consequences that could quite easily result in his death.
For now, the best approach is to humour his delusion. We all find it hard to adjust to being kindred and having to prey on humanity at first, but it becomes hard to hold on to our humanitas as we age. I would expect that, as Kelsar maturates, in time he will become accustomed to the same impulses that currently terrify him. When this happens, I would expect that the curse of Malkav will cause his Self-Annihilation Impulse to change to something else. The question is, when will this occur and will it be something less high-functioning than his current derangement? In many ways, keeping him in his current status quo which, although often a cause of ridicule in Elysium, ultimately allows him high-functionality especially within the mortal world (the rise of pop culture and the Cosplay phenomenon serve him well in this case) and therefore overall quite benign.
Other Information
Whilst in the case of other patients not using their preferred names could incur difficulties in dealing with them, in Kelsar's case, it can contribute towards provoking self-annihilation impulses. He should only be referred to when possible as Kelsar, although it can be ok to refer to him as "Zachary Landsdale" (his true name) when around the kine as a "human cover to protect the prime directive" - ie although he believes he is Vulcan, he needs to protect "Starfleet's Prime Directive" and prevent unprepared 21st Century humanity from learning of his true Vulcan existence. This is a rationale I have managed to convince him of, which means that his delusion is believed but he actually pretends to be human amongst mortals and prevent them learning the truth of what he is - which therefore protects the Masquerade (and himself). This could lead to him appearing to be "normal" around humans (though in milder impulse moments he may "pretend to be in Cosplay" at inopportune times, subconsciously attempting to attract attention that could lead to a masquerade breach), whilst he will rarely hide "his true form" around kindred. Therefore around the kine he will respond to the use of his real name, but it should not be treated as though Zachary is his real name and Kelsar a pretend name. This is really not much different to many kindred (myself included) changing their name after their Embrace, except that he believes Kelsar is his true name and Zachary the false name he's taken post-Embrace for dealing with the kine.
His wife Alice is his ghoul and works well with us to protect and care for her husband, so it may be worth dealing with her as first-line rather than Kelsar directly if done suddenly with little warning. She was a high school science teacher and sci-fi enthusiast who met Kelsar at a local Sci-Fi convention. As she has now been a ghoul for over 10 years, her youthfulness is beginning to get noticed by work colleagues and so she has been increasingly getting involved with Kelsar's art business as an assistant and writer in preparation for when the time comes when she will have to leave her job to preserve the Masquerade (as if she does not, the Camarilla may decide that Kelsar is endangering the masquerade and at the least kill her to preserve it, if not him as well).
Case Profile: Lantry, Andrew
Full Article: Andrew Lantry
- Real/Birth Name: Andrew Lantry.
- Preferred Name: According to dominant personality.
- Mortal Alias: According to dominant personality.
- Place of Origin: Ashford, California, USA.
- Height: 6'0" (183 cm)
- Occupation: Artist, Fiction Author, Agent
- Apparent Age: Mid-20s.
- Embraced: 1994
- Sire: Christoph Kliethermes
- Prognosis: Dissociative Personality Disorder
Prognosis
No information available.
Other Information
No information available.
Case Profile: Lundgren, Maxim
Full Article: Maxim Lundgren
- Real/Birth Name: Maxim Lundgren.
- Preferred Name: Maxim Lundgren.
- Mortal Alias: Maxim Lundgren.
- Place of Origin: Spånga, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Height: 6'6" (198 cm)
- Occupation: Body Combat Trainer.
- Apparent Age: Late 40s.
- Embraced: 1961
- Sire: Linnea Akerman.
- Prognosis: Power-Object Fixation (Hats).
Prognosis
No information available.
Other Information
No information available.
Case Profile: Oswig, Chloe
Full Article: Chloe
- Real/Birth Name: Chloë Ōswīg.
- Preferred Name: Chloe.
- Mortal Alias: Chloe Cassidy.
- Place of Origin: Worsley, Greater Manchester, England.
- Height: 5'5" (165 cm)
- Occupation: None/Mental health patient.
- Apparent Age: Early Adolescence (embraced aged 13).
- Embraced: Unknown (believed mid-18th Century.
- Sire: Damien Hobbs.
- Prognosis: Regression.
Prognosis
Patient's complete background and medical history are unknown, but her Embrace was a tragic and more horrifying experience than most, which may have influenced the development of Regressive disorder. During her lucid moments the patient is clearly an Elder in a young body, wise and powerful. But moments of stress, or those that recall her past traumas or, sometimes, simply randomly, she enters a regressive state. When in these states she has much the same personality as she would have when she was a child, albeit a highly charismatic and intelligent one, much more self-centred and fearful of the unknown. She becomes reliant on strong "parent" figures, although she won't typically be aware of this - honest and receptive to those who are kind and entertaining towards her, and visibly disliking and antagonistic to those that are not. During these regressive periods, observation and confinement are recommended. Although this may seem unnecessary, her child mentality is too immature to comprehend right or wrong, or have a sense of discipline for the sake of discipline. Just as a young child may play games adults would consider cruel, such as cooking an ant under a magnifying glass, throwing rocks at squirrels, or shooting birds with BB guns, a regressive kindred would see the kine in much the same way - but is still Kindred and her "playing" can easily result in grievous or fatal injuries, or potential masquerade breaches. Regressive kindred still have the Beast like any other, but not self-aware enough to control it, and so are at greater likelihood of entering frenzy. Guidance by a strong parental figure with a good sense of empathy can help avert potential disaster. The patient's regressive episodes could last anywhere from minutes, to years. Her sire kept her in a near-constant state of regression for centuries, directing her to suit his sociopathic whims.
Other Information
No information available.
Case Profile: Quinzel, Helen
Full Article: Helen Quinzel
- Real/Birth Name: Ellen Pfeiffer.
- Preferred Name: Helen Quinzel.
- Mortal Alias: Dr Helen Quinzel.
- Place of Origin: Santa Ana, California, USA.
- Height: 5'7" (171 cm)
- Occupation: Psychiatrist / Owner, Ashford Behavioural Healthcare Hospital.
- Apparent Age: Mid-30s.
- Embraced: 1939.
- Sire: Damien Hobbs.
- Prognosis: Power-Object Fixation (Seal of Solomon); of late, also possibly Fugue, Memory Lapses or Dissociative Personality Disorder.
Prognosis
Foreword by H.Quinzel: Because self-diagnosis is both unethical and unreliable, rather than conceptualise as to my own condition, I have requested the assistance of Dr Alexa Schofield, a physician and magus of the Order of Hermes, whose own father is Kindred. Her speciality area is in Neurology, which she has extensively studied both the science of neurology as well as the magical metaphysics of magic that affects the mind. Therefore, I feel, is qualified to give a fair assessment.
Assessment by Dr A.Schofield: Although this is my first formal assessment of the subject, the subject has been known to me for many years. At the time, the diagnosis presented by Dr A. Romanova stated that the subject clearly suffered from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder relating to obsession for knowledge and accuracy of information and compulsion for researching - typically presented during oral conversation as an compulsion to ask constant questions probing for further information in order to satisfy the obsession to be in control and not have facts left out. Whilst I was not licensed back then, this diagnosis was apparent during this time and all the time I have known the subject.
Until now. Although the subject still maintains a desire to know as much as possible, it is no longer a compulsive obsession to do so that must be actively monitored and treated. Her control and responses to testing as to this condition show her to now be within the neurotypical range. A remarked change that would be difficult, if not impossible, for Cainille without magickal or supernatural influence.
Subject now instead suffers from [Malkavian_Derangements_(WoD)#Power-Object_Fixation|Power-Object Fixation (POF)]], specifically for her silver pendant of the Seal of Solomon (alternatively known to the lay population, especially the Jewish community, as the Star of David). Subjects with POF become invested in an external object to the point where they believe (sometimes not consciously) that they cannot function properly without its presence. This fixation, in the Cainille, is typically linked to some past trauma in which the object played a role. In the case of subject Quinzel, the pendant was a gift from her quite superstitious mother - a "good luck charm." I find this an odd choice, as neither the subject nor her mother were Jewish. This makes me wonder if perhaps the mother may have had Hermetic associations as the Seal of Solomon is a common magickal tool for my Order as it is symbolically known to ward of evil spirits, curses and trap demons). This might help explain why the subject has greater awareness (the "sixth sense" as it is commonly known) than most, even without the use of the Auspex Discipline. Alas with the murder of her family by the subject's sire over a century ago, this will be a question that will likely never be answered. Nonetheless, subject has suffered over a century of physical and, predominantly, psychological abuse at the hands of her sociopathic sire - and the pendant has been with her all this time. With the disappearance (and presumed death) of her sire in 2013, this could validate her belief that the pendant managed to protect her from demons - ie her sire - as ultimately, she has persevered and survived, and the demon has gone.
The subject's fixation is relatively benign, at least as regards ability to function in society. Although she will argue that the pendant is just a good luck charm and decorative piece, the subject is constantly touching the pendant, checking to ensure it is with her and will become notably agitated if she removes it from her person. She will only allow those within her circle of trust to even touch it, abjectly refusing to allow those outside to touch it. If it is removed from her against her consent, this will trigger panic and insecurity at best, and anger at worst depending on how the item was taken (such as "as a prank" or accidentally by another, or as theft), by who, and if it is quickly returned or not. It is very possible that over extended periods, or in the right circumstances, this could actually trigger the subject to "Frenzy." Forcible removal is therefore inadvisable.
Of late, however, the subject has been suffering from memory loss. There are periods of which the subject is not aware of, but there are witnesses that she has been active. This could potentially be Memory Lapses, although that diagnosis typically results in random memory loss at inopportune times, whilst these memory lapses - though random in their occurrence - are losses about specific and consistent periods of (recent) time. That is to say, ML sufferers may lose a memory of an activity one moment, but regain the memory a few hours later; whilst the subject will remember her activities with perfect clarity (especially as she has eidetic memory) but not remember a specific time period, and that memory will never return. This would make the condition more similar to Fugue, except Fugue is typically triggered by stress and results in individuals taking on a form of "autopilot" similar to sleepwalking - whilst those who have witnessed the subject during these periods state that she is lucid and active. They have also stated that, during these periods, the subject has appeared to manifest a "darker" personality - more aggressive, ambitious, and less compassionate. Notably, during these periods the subject has been witnessed consistently without her pendant, and instead carrying a silver Bowie knife - once owned by her sire and which had been used as a tool to inflict physical and psychological torture on Helen for many years. I therefore am beginning to suspect that the subject may be in the early stages of developing Dissociative Personality Disorder, developing a personality that is "tougher" in character than her natural one - perhaps to cope with stress or adversity. When this personality is dominant, I believe her power-object fixation is "transferred" to the Bowie knife, with the tool that once signified her torture now becoming a symbol of her new personality's strength and dominance. Attempting to separate the subject from this knife is also inadvisable.
Other Information
Personal note from Alexa to AJ: Hi AJ. We've never met in person, but Helen has spoken of you a lot. I've known her most of my life, as my father was a kindred of Clan Senya (a long story for another time) and Dr Romanova - Helen's best friend - was my mentor and practically godmother growing up in Ashford. Unfortunately, these days I am based in Vancouver (Canada) and I'm doing important work here both scientifically and magickally, as well as helping keep the compact working and preventing the Kindred and Lupines from going after each other's throats - but I will try to come down occasionally if I get the chance. However, if things "hit crisis point" regarding Helen's Fugue/Memory Lapses/Disassociative Personality Disorder (sorry I cannot give more information or accurate prognosis, but it's hard from this end of the continent and limited exposure - I would appreciate updates on this) then give me a call and I'll do whatever I can to get there and help. Nonetheless, I would be remiss if I did not point this out: the information I have provided is for YOUR benefit ONLY. Do not share this information with anyone, possibly excepting Nastya (Dr Romanova) or the Nosferatu Primogen (who I have not met in person, but know Helen trusts). These are the only two kindred that can be trusted will move the heavens to protect Helen if need be. Your sire has many enemies, and until we know what her blackouts are (and more immediately important, what she does during these blackouts) that needs to be kept very close. If this information gets out to Helen's detriment I will not be happy. I will go to Ashford personally. I will find you. And paradox-be-damned I will engulf you in a magical conflagration of such intensity that it'll pop up on the radar of every Iteration X satellite in the hemisphere! So, let's not let it come to that?
Case Profile: Taggart, Linda
Full Article: Sanguinus: Linda Taggart
- Real/Birth Name: Linda Taggart
- Preferred Name: Linda Taggart
- Mortal Alias: Linda Taggart
- Place of Origin: Arvin, Kern County, California, USA
- Height: 5'3"
- Occupation: Charge Nurse, Ashford Heart Hospital
- Apparent Age: Late-20s
- Embraced: 2008
- Sire: Carlota Kaspar (deceased)
- Prognosis: Sanguinary Animism
Prognosis
No information available.
Other Information
No information available.
Case Profile: Weston, Laurence
Full Article: Laurence Weston
- Real/Birth Name: Laurence Weston.
- Preferred Name: Larry.
- Mortal Alias: Laurence Weston.
- Place of Origin: Ashford, California, USA.
- Height: 5'8"
- Occupation: Night Auditor, Emerald Inn.
- Apparent Age: Late 30s.
- Embraced: 1985.
- Sire: Allan Nolton.
- Prognosis: Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Prognosis
No information available.
Other Information
No information available.
Case Profile: Zingmark, Kathleen
Full Article: 1337 5kw4d: B00kw0rm
- Real/Birth Name: Zingmark, Kathleen
- Preferred Name: Astridsdotter, Evelina
- Mortal Alias: Astridsdotter, Evelina
- Place of Origin: Umea, Sweden
- Height: 5'3"
- Occupation: Librarian II at Kern County Library (Beale Memorial Library)
- Apparent Age: Early-20s
- Embraced: 1989
- Sire: Viktoria Engdahl
- Prognosis: Borderline Personality Disorder
Prognosis
No information available.
Other Information
No information available.
The Quinzel Files: Closed Cases
Case Profile: Bairstow, Paul
Full Article: Paul Bairstow
- Real/Birth Name: Paul Bairstow.
- Preferred Name: Paul Bairstow.
- Mortal Alias: Paul Bairstow.
- Place of Origin: Ashford, California, USA.
- Height: 5'8"
- Occupation: Escort/Bodyguard.
- Apparent Age: Late-20s.
- Embraced: 1977.
- Sire: Aliyah Shaw.
- Prognosis: Borderline Personality Disorder; Power-Object Fixation
Prognosis
No information available.
Other Information
No information available.
Case Profile: Cohan, Graciela
Full Article: Grace Williams
- Real/Birth Name: Claimed: Graciéla Cohan;Actual: Grace Williams.
- Preferred Name: Grace.
- Mortal Alias: Graciéla Cohan.
- Place of Origin: Cherry Hill, New Jersey, USA.
- Height: 5'7"
- Occupation: Claimed: Chauffer; Actual: Black Hand Assassin.
- Apparent Age: Late 20s.
- Embraced: Claimed: 2011; Actual: 1927.
- Sire: Claimed: Unknown; Actual: Santiago Nocera (Sabbat).
- Prognosis: Paranoia (faked).
Prognosis
Patient had struck me as strange from the beginning. She was highly reluctant to receive therapy, obfuscating this as part of her paranoia and claiming that I was "an Illuminati stooge" seeking to keep tabs on her for the Illuminati. She was reluctant to talk about herself under this claim, although she always attempted to steer the conversation towards learning about other kindred - at times being difficult to keep professional and confidentiality due to the subtle nature she was able to steer conversations to extract the information she wanted - a lesser psychologist would have likely have been successfully manipulated. I believe she attempted to Dominate me on at least one occasion but was unsuccessful - leading to her frustration and faking paranoia episodes to cut the sessions short.
Ultimately my suspicions proved correct, though she managed to deceive me nonetheless. I came to suspect she was not actually a child of Malkav and that her paranoia was a (very well faked) act to deflect probing into her background, which I assumed may have been likely that she was a Caitiff or perhaps had gone rogue from a clan that dominates and supervises its cainites, such as the Tremere. However in the end it was revealed that her real name was actually Grace Williams and that she was a Lasombra as well as the Sabbat Black Hand war-leader of the Crusade in Ashford.
Other Information
I can't help but feel that had I perhaps been less concerned about diagnosing and treating her paranoia I may have got some hint of the truth - and perhaps unlives could have been saved. But ultimately I am grateful simply that my clan suffered less than most, and that she did not kill me when she had (many) opportunities to do so. Nonetheless, I feel a degree of shame and guilt as to my self-perceived failings, which I suspect I may now be suffering from "survivor's guilt."
Grace was killed at the end of the Sabbat Crusade; although the actual killing blow that ended the Crusade was dealt by Valerie Leigh of Clan Senya, the childe of the Senya Primogen, I take pride and satisfaction in knowing that the attack was led by my childe AJ (at least insofar as the Camarilla kindred involved were concerned) and made possible by the assistance of former-Autarkis (and Grace's former mentor) Tatjana who he tracked down and convinced to negotiate with the Camarilla to provide the assistance and information that ultimately ended the war.
As for Grace - may the Abyss take her soul and consume it utterly.
Case Profile: Hobbs, Damien
Full Article: Damien Hobbs
- Real/Birth Name: Unknown.
- Preferred Name: Damien Hobbs.
- Mortal Alias: Damien Hobbs.
- Place of Origin: England, UK (believed Worsley, Lancashire).
- Height: 5'9"
- Occupation: Business entrepreneur.
- Apparent Age: Early 50s.
- Embraced: 1590.
- Sire: Unknown.
- Prognosis: Antisocial Personality Disorder.
Prognosis
Although the term has now fallen out of favour since the publication of the DSM-5, Damien was a textbook sociopath (now known as Antisocial Personality Disorder). I suspect he may have been a natural psychopath (a term that is contested to be an inherited form of ASPD rather than developed social form of ASPD, commonly referred to as Sociopathy) even before his embrace, but have no empirical evidence to support this hypothesis.
Other Information
Damien admits to having been a former Camarilla ghoul to a Ventrue who's sire abandoned him - as this could endanger the Masquerade, I suspect that Damien had been a ghoul for long enough that his domitor expected him to crumble to ash after a missed feeding, which would make Damien about a century older than his already claimed 400 or so years of unlife. Regardless, he was cunning enough that he claims he not only managed to secure a new domitor in the brief time remaining after his domitor's refusal to re-infuse him with vitae, but convincing this new domitor to embrace him.
Damien disappeared in 2013.
Case Profile: Nowack, Seth
Full Article: Seth Nowack
- Real/Birth Name: Seth Nowack.
- Preferred Name: Seth Nowack.
- Mortal Alias: Seth Nowack.
- Place of Origin: Ashford, California, USA.
- Height: 5'9"
- Occupation: Private Security.
- Apparent Age: Mid-20s.
- Embraced: 1968.
- Sire: Unknown.
- Prognosis: Grandiose Delusions.
Prognosis
Patient suffered from Grandiose Delusions. Perhaps as a result of being a former Toreador ghoul, and the events surrounding his Embrace (see other notes), patient believed he was a Toreador. Although he was courteous to the Malkavian Clan, he was adamant that he was a Toreador and Genevieve Montclair was his sire - and if pushed too hard or given evidence to the contrary could get hostile; although he was otherwise a popular and likable man.
Other Information
Patient used to be a US Marine during his mortal days, enrolling at the minimum statutory age and serving two tours with distinction. He retired from the military to get into private security. This led to him becoming one of Genevieve Montclair's security details and ghoul. He was embraced during one of Montclair's PR PR events by an unknown kindred - likely a feeding gone wrong, or perhaps a stalker/troublemaker he had to handle and was overpowered. He has no recollection of the actual Embrace (likely due to Dominate reprogramming of his memories by his sire to cover the illegal embrace) and believes that he was Embraced by Genevieve herself (see prognosis). He developed an enfatuation for her that came close to obsessive, and was constantly with her as security or a groupie.
Unfortunately, the patient was with Genevieve Montclair during the Opera House massacre and gave his life to protect her from the Sabbat Attack. Although Ms Montclair seems to have little qualms or grief over Seth's sacrifice for her, it would at least have made Seth happy to know that his sacrifice did enable Ms Montclair to escape unscathed.
Personal Addendum: I think the wrong kindred died that day.
Gallery
Columban, Marcelyn
Holgain, Tobias (Ipsissimus)
Kliethermes, Christoph
Ledger, Arthur
Kunis, Lilian (Lolth)
Landsdale, Zachary (Kelsar)
Lantry, Andrew (Mandy/Brick/Johannes)
Lundgren, Maxim
Oswig, Chloe
Quinzel, Helen
Taggart, Linda
Weston, Laurence
Zingmark, Kathleen (Astridsdotter, Evelina)
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Bairstow, Paul
Cohan, Graciela (Grace Williams)
Hobbs, Damien
Nowack, Seth