House Lorelei

The merfolk of House Lorelei realize that their House is the representation of Dagon in the Triat; they interpret this as their duty to fi nd and destroy his minions wherever they may be, be they human, murdhuacha, or even Chulorviah. House Lorelei is a house of warriors and hunters — the Apsarae of the Lorelei are typically sharks, eels, skates, rays, guitarfi shes, barracuda and even some of the predators of the Abyssal Zone, such as viperfi sh and gulper eels.

Facing off against a Lorelei in her own element is not strongly advised. The fighting style of the house hinges on an underwater environment; these fae are hindered on dry land, but almost unstoppable undersea. Prone to violent frenzies, a Lorelei is a creative, independent fighter, used to fighting in all three dimensions. The trident is the preferred weapon of these warriors — slashing with a sword or axe is wildly inefficient underwater, and a trident still grants the advantage of reach. Lorelei are not the disciplined, rank-and-file types that come to mind when one thinks of the word “soldier.” Even in highly organized units, the merfolk of house Lorelei operate with an autonomy that is almost unheard of on land. It’s not that the Lorelei can’t follow orders, it’s just that their unusual fighting style and diversity within their own ranks requires a degree of freedom. Lorelei are often assigned to various missions by highranking Syrinx (and their Melusine advisors) based on their capabilities. An anglerfish Lorelei may get an Abyssal Zone detail while a mako would probably get something closer to the surface. Lorelei also guard the coral cities and serve as bodyguards for various other merfolk. The Lorelei enjoy a degree of safety from the weresharks, who apparently see them as something of kindred spirits. It’s not much (there’s never such thing as “completely safe” with the Rokea), but it’s better than nothing.

Boon: The Lorelei are devastating opponents in battle. All Lorelei gain one free dot in Brawl, Melee or Dodge, and this bonus doubles in the water. Similarly, Lorelei pack a vicious bite that does Str +1 damage when it connects.

Flaw: All Lorelei, regardless of how docile their Apsara may be, are prone to frenzy at the smell of blood. When a Lorelei smells blood, she must gain three successes on a Willpower roll or fly into a maniacal frenzy, attacking anything that moves for the next five turns.

Reference

 * CWOD: World of Darkness: Blood-Dimmed Tides, p. 73-74