The Ravnos clan shares many
characteristics with the Gangrel, but there is no other clan with which it more
differs. The Gangrel are loners, the Ravnos love companionship. The Gangrel are
combative; the Ravnos try to avoid direct physical confrontations. The Gangrel
are honest and forthright; the Ravnos are masters of lies and deceit. The most
obvious similarity between Ravnos and Gangrel is the nomadic lifestyle common to
both. Few Ravnos would ever consider staying in one city for an extended amount
of time. Those who have adapted to an urban lifestyle change their havens on a
regular basis, never staying in one for more than a month.
The other prominent
similarity between Ravnos and Gangrel is both clans' connection with Gypsies.
However, while the Gangrel are widely accepted among Gypsies, the Ravnos are
accepted only within their own family group (if they are of Gypsy blood). Though
Ravnos live much like Gypsies, they are not accepted by them. While most blame
this on the Ravnos' unquenchable compulsions to lie and steal from those around,
others say the very auras of the Ravnos repulse the sensitive Gypsy
mystics.
Free movement is very
highly regarded by Ravnos. They freely move back and forth between cities
controlled by the Camarilla and those controlled by the Sabbat. Anyone who
attempts to prevent Ravnos from entering a city is given the "treatment" - large
groups of the clan will enter the city and give it a thorough scouring. Few
princes have the courage to risk such and, despite their disgust, most do not
prevent Ravnos from entering their city.
Ravnos take their personal
and clan honor very seriously, and it is one of their most prized possessions.
However, the code of honor by which they live is quite different from the rules
most folk follow. They do not place much pride in keeping their word unless they
shake hands on it - after spiting into their palms with blood. They are
honor-bound to avenge themselves if anyone besmirches their honor or "good
name." They do not cheat or steal from others of the clan, but feel no such
compunctions about outsiders. Friendship is valued very highly, and they will
always come to the aid of those whom they consider "brothers."
Weaknesses
Ravnos are infamous for
their trickery. Each has a specific area of thievery and deception in which she
is especially interested, and practices it every chance they
get.
