Written by Phil Rickaby, and used with permission.
The format of a Conclave is as follows:
A Conclave is the Camarilla member's opportunity to have their voice heard, and to have their say in the way that justice is dispensed. It is the means by which the Camarilla functions as a sect. As such, all Camarilla members are welcome to attend any Conclave. A member of the Camarilla is defined by the Camarilla as such: "Any Kindred vho has sworn loyalty to the Sect" which is assumed if the Kindred has presented themselves to a Camarilla Prince. The primary function of a Conclave is to make recommendations on the matters brought before it. Any Kindred may bring a matter before a Conclave, as long as they have Status. Often, complaints against Princes are brought up at Conclaves. The Conclave interprets the Six Traditions. It may call Blood Hunts, even against Princes. During a Conclave, any matter may he brought before the Assembly (which encompasses all Kindred in attendance). However, members of the Assembly only have the right to address the Conclave if supported by at least two members of the Assembly.
The Justicar opens the Conclave by giving a ritual call to "gather the Cainites". He then introduces himself, stating name, title, Clan, and length of time he has served as Justicar. Decorum requires that he recognize the Prince and Primogen. but otherwise, no special treatment is given them.
The Assembly is divided into Clans. Each of the Seven Camarilla Clans elect a representative for the Conclave's Council of Clan Elect. A formal vote is made. Each representative assumes their position at a table in front of the Assembly, and states their name, title, clan, and generation.
The Council of Clan Elect is composed of one represenrative from each of the seven Camarilla Clans. Each delegate is usually the eldest, but not always. Each clan has a meeting to decide who their representative will be. The Kindred with the most votes is the elected rep. It is during this section of the Conclave that deals are made, boons are called in. In other words, it is the Assembly's chance for last minute wheeling and dealing.
The chamber is sealed for this portion of the Conclave. A Castalion is appointed to prevent anyone from leaving, or entering. It is here that the reasons for the Conclave are explored. It is at this point that any other issues are brought before the Conclave.
The doors are opened for this section of the Conclave. Evidence is presented. Witnessess gathered. The issues are dealt with in whatever order the Justicar desires. This is also the point at which the Assembly may voice their opinions of the Issues.
At this point those involved make closing statements. The votes are made. This is where the decisions are made.
At this time judgments and punishments are meted out. Once justice has been done, the Justicar reviews the purpose of the Conclave, the issues that were brought before it, and any judgments that the Conclave reaches. He also orders that they be remembered by all in attendance.
The last three sections of the Conclave will be repeated many times, once for each issue discussed.
Conclaves are potenial sources for a tremendous amount of intrigue. Once a Conclave is convened, any issue may be brought before it. It is not unheard of for various Clans to influence one another's voting or election process. It is the vote of the Clan's representative, not the Clan itself that determines the outcome. Therefore great care should be taken when electing the representative.
Written by Phil Rickaby, and used with permission.
