The Ruling Families

Three ruling families historically shared power in the city. These are the Olgimskys, Saburovs, and Kains. They're led by powerful men complemented by the mystical abilities of their wives, the so-called Mistresses. Each family embodies its truth and its vision of the city. Each seeks to reshape the world at its sole discretion. However, in the midst of this struggle, the ruling families create a city.

Before the beginning of the epidemic, Simon Kain was a linchpin, and after his death the previous balance was broken. It must be replaced by a new configuration of power. During the epidemic, the families weave intrigues against each other in order to prevent any one gaining too much power, and, as much as possible, use the protagonists to achieve their goals.

The Kains

Judicial authority is concentrated in the hands of the Kains. Also, this family has the opportunity to influence the soul of the city and embodies creativity. The Kains embody the ideals of the Utopians and sponsor the Bachelor.

The Olgimskys

The Olgimskys control the Bull Project, and thus all urban production and trade. They do not disdain dubious methods to manage their profits, but are respected among the Order. The Olgimskys (with the exception of Young Vlad, who follows the Utopians) embody the ideals of the Termites and sponsor the Haruspex.

The Saburovs

Alexander Saburov holds the Executive branch. The Saburovs embody the ideals of the Humble Ones and sponsor the Changeling, whom they adopt on the very day she first appears.