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 vision of the city. Each seeks to reshape the world at its sole discretion.

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 plot against each other in order to prevent anyone gaining too much power, and, as much as possible, use the protagonists to achieve their goals.

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

The Olgimskys (Ольгимские)
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 (Сабуровы)
The Saburovs hold the Executive branch. The Saburovs embody the ideals of the Humble and sponsor the Changeling, whom they adopt on the very day she first appears.