Illuminati: The Conspiracy

By Stephen Esdale

With a plethoria of information and assistance

and information provided by Anders Sandberg

Chapter 1: Introduction

We are prisoners in our own World.

Since the dawn of time we sleepers...mortals...humans have been the pawns of greater powers. To them we were nothing; used as tools and exploited for their enjoyment.

The first to become our "masters" were those horrible creatures society would label Werewolves. These things that call themselves Garou subjected us to the harsh tyranny called the Impergium. For millennia they culled our numbers, stopped us from growing, and stole our world from us. We all have a legacy from it. For to look upon one of the beasts still causes madness and overriding fear; a racial memory of undying intensity.

No one remembers those dark days...no one but us.

Vampires sought to continue the cycle of dominance. These creatures exist in a limbo between life and death. They have great mystic power and have the will to use it. Many of our most talented, famous, and infamous people have been taken over to their side. Our greatest resources have been stolen from us, the collected treasures of humanity have been raped by abominations! They walk among us, unseen by most. They control mortals from the darkness, unknown by most. They are a danger to all of us, incomprehensible by most.

We are not like most people. We see, know, and comprehend.

Magic exists all around us. Those of us have master magic in some form are called Hedge Wizards. This moniker was bestowed by those of Supernatural origin; our magic cannot compare to that of the Vampire's Thaumaturgy and those of the immortal Mummy. Mummies, like their magic, are potent but not a threat. They seek the destruction of Vampires, and that could be the key to bringing them over to our side.

There is another magic so potent in this world, that its source defies logic. Only these people deserve to be called Magi. Once they were like us and are still very much mortal. I have been told they have seen the true nature of reality, and are bestowed with the power to shape it to their will. I have also been informed by those of their kind that they have only limited control, lest powers beyond their scope crush them underfoot. We would have called these Magi brothers, but they have continually attempted to control humanity. They have herded them into an alien philosophy they call Ascension.

Of all of these, those who call themselves the Technomancers are the worst. Bastions of technology, they have enslaved humanity under a dogma of science and logic. We allowed them to start the Age of Reason, for it subverted the other supernaturals and forced them into hiding. Their technological advancements have given us new weapons against our age-old enemies. Yet the time for allowing the Technomages free reign has long passed. Their Empire will be crushed in The Conspiracy.

Ah yes, The Conspiracy. That is the name for the plans we have created to finally free Humanity from the yoke of Supernatural influence. Yet its more than that, for we want humanity under our guidance. For too long have they wandered like sheep, allowing the Vampire, Magi, and Werewolf to control them. They need a Shepherd; a leader to show them the way to world dominance. We, the Illuminati, are that force.

The Secret Societies that we call the Illuminati are a diverse lot. Some of us have existed since before the Egyptians, some only very recently. Some, like my Society, want political power; others wish to control the flow of information or money. Others just want power of a different kind, like magic or knowledge! Our secrecy has been guaranteed by our unorthodox methods. A web of intrigue, control and influence make it nearly impossible for those seeking the truth to find it. And if they do get close? We drop the name Illuminati in the laps. Those Vampire fools of Clan Tremere call their information network by the same name we do. The odds are in our favour that those seeking us out will attribute our...deeds to the Tremere. No wonder those undead Warlocks are so mistrusted!

No. We should have never given our name to the Sheep, nor to the Supernatural forces that control them. Because of it, our secrecy could be threatened. A Tremere Warlock called Corvus Beltane has learned some of our secrets and has taken his knowledge underground. Though our forces have waged a successful campaign of disinformation, our fear is that others will listen to his words and actually believe him. That Vampire and his "Shamans of Beltane" must die!

The Courts will send their Cadres, independent troubleshooters charged with protecting the phantom veneer we hide behind. There are many powers in the world which are beyond even our ability to fathom. We must be diligent, or they will crush us like the ants we truly are.

Now that you heard this, you have no other option but to become a member of our side. You will now swear your loyalty to the Society of the Global Elite. If the lie detector detects deception, you will be filled with enough volts light up a small town. Now repeat after me...

Introduction

Welcome to my pet project, something I have always wanted to add in the World of Darkness. However, before you read any further I want to lay out what this supplement is all about. For one thing, Illuminati: The Conspiracy is not meant to redefine anything in the World of Darkness. Everything you have heard in the other Storyteller games in not changed by this supplement. What I have done is added a hidden element into the Goth-Punk world, along with enough rumours and ideas to allow the Storyteller to pick-and-choose what elements are suitable for his or her own campaign. In the end, this supplement is an aid for Storytellers to spice up their campaign world. No one should tell you how to run Illuminati; not even its writer.

This is a supplement of mundane secret societies, run by extraordinary but still mundane humans. For those who want nifty new supernatural creatures with wondrous powers and vicious natural weapons, you will be sadly disappointed. Its strictly a roleplaying tool. Though they Societies have nifty gadgets at their disposal, Mages and other supernatural creatures would eat a conventional Knight (an Illuminati Agent) for breakfast. Only by careful planning and scheming can these forces remain undetected in this dark and strange land.

Illuminati is a work filled with mystery, suspense, and irony. Irony? Yes, for the World of Darkness is filled with dramatic irony. The Vampire Sabbat, though the Arch-enemy of the Camarilla, may be the Kindred's only hope against the Antediluvians. Werewolves, by their Impergium, may have driven humanity into the Weaver's influence to escape Garou tyranny. Finally, Mage's, by their actions in the Mythic Age, may have contributed to the rise of the Technocracy (though, in the case of the latter, we give an alternate theory).

In Illuminati: The Conspiracy it is very ironic that this influential and powerful organization isn't controlled by supernatural monstrosities or powerful wizard's chantry. It is mundane humans, though some blessed with extraordinary Numina, that are the self-appointed puppet-masters of Humanity. It is also very Paradoxical that though the Secret Societies are against Supernatural Influence in the world, their great power comes from the Vampire, Werewolf, and Mage pawns at their disposal. Though they want a world free from arcane authority, they need them to maintain their grip on humanity.

Another element that is very important is paranoia. Plots behind plots, ulterior motives, and secret agendas are everywhere. Working for an mysterious organization, often facing an enemy that a total unknown. Your never sure whether your teammates are trusted friends, or spies. You could be the spy! The only person you cannot distrust is your boss and he's brainwashed you.

As you are reading this, you will immediately draw comparisons between this and Steve Jackson's Illuminati (both the GURPS supplement and the card game). I must admit that the game was the catalyst for writing this supplement, as well as inspiration for the major societies in the game (Gnomes of Zurich = Shadow Bank, Bavarian Illuminati = Global Elite). Yet the bulk of the work remains generally my own (along with more than generous help from Anders Sandberg and a non-listmember, Carl Gutbrod).

I have undoubtedly used a lot of copyrights and trademarks here, and did so without permission. I am getting no revenue from this and have very little money myself. Don't sue me; you can't squeeze blood from a turnip.

Chapter Two : Setting

The World of Darkness has already been adequately handled in the other White Wolf games. This work does not change the scope of that work. What this does is add a new force into that bleak landscape. A force which doesn't have claws or fangs, cannot dominate or toss fireballs. This force has existed for centuries, though none of its members are immortal. They rarely confront their enemy directly; never allow themselves to be discovered. They are the Secret Societies of Humanity, collectively known as the Illuminati.

Collective History of the Illuminati.

Though it has faded into the racial memory of Humanity, the real beginning of the Illuminati can be traced to the Impergium, the empire of Werewolves that culled mankind's growth. Sometime near the end of the Impergium, village elders started groups to maintain a history of their people and also to chronicle the terrible things the Werewolves had done. This was, of course, an oral history and was passed down from generation to generation. These small groups would later fade in the background of society as the Garou ended their reign of terror and allowed the unchecked expansion of humanity.

The oral history would continue to be spread until the rise of the Egyptians. Up to (and including) this time, these people had been long considered Sages and men of wisdom. Their knowledge was desperately sought, and was a valuable commodity. A small group of these oral historians, to preserve their legacy for future generations, wrote down their millennia-long legacy on papyrus sheets. They then took the many books and hid them away in a false tomb for safe keeping, to prevent the unworthy from gleaning its secrets. This tomb was the first Basilica, the storehouse of the first Secret Society which would be later called the Blood Covenant.

The secret societies sprung up over the millennia, growing from areas seeded from the Blood Covenant. These Secret Societies saw the atrocities committed by the supernatural world, terrible things that brought back memories of the Impergium. The Battle between Set and Osiris, and the Mythic Age of Magedom were only two of the horrible things which scarred humankind. The societies had once thought only about advancing mankind, the power gained being fringe benefits. Now they realized that humanity was not capable of handling its own affairs unguided. Now they would control mankind for its betterment, subverting the supernatural influence and eventually utterly destroying those abominations.

Thus The Conspiracy was formed, the plan for the saving of mankind. They would control society from the shadows, never taking a direct hand in anything. Instead they would let the humans serve as pawns, with them not even knowing that they were being controlled. From their secret positions they would lead humanity against the supernatural, erasing their power and privilege from the mundane world. The abominations would not be able to strike back effectively, for they would be unable to find the true source of the enemy.

Around the 15th century, when the great age of expansion was taking place, the Secret Societies (now calling themselves the Illuminati) were beginning to clash on a regular basis. When countries and people had little contact with each other, the Illuminati could easily work in their respected circles without difficulty. Each society had its own goals, which rarely involved another society's "holdings". Now the world was getting smaller, travel between locations would soon be much easier and less risky. Already some Illuminati were threatening their cover by hiring thugs to attack another's holdings. It seemed as if the Illuminati would go to war if something wasn't done. Thousands of years of work could be undone in but a few short years.

In the year 1492, just as Columbus was reaching the shores of the New World, the Four Major Secret Societies of the Illuminati (Global Elite, Blood Covenant, The Pantheon, and The Keepers of Secrets) met to avert major disaster. A treaty of peace, called the Pax Concordat was drawn up between the powers. This document laid out a framework in which the Secret Societies could function without risking the Conspiracy. A non-violent means of acquisition and take-over of another Society's holdings was implemented, as well a strict code of conduct for those engaged in those activities. Basilica were updated to guarantee that all Societies knew the reason for their actions and what their goals were . Finally, the Pax Concordat set up a united front against the Supernatural. No Illuminati would be alone against the Abominations.

The Illuminati have expanded steadily over the last half millennia. Two new Societies have been introduced into the Pax Concordat, the Shadow Bank and the Enigmatic Stratagem (though it's in doubt whether the latter actually follows its precepts). Since ancient times, they have remained largely unnoticed by the general populace. No one has even suspected they may exist...until recently.

It is fashionable in these days to believe in conspiracies (more so in the World of Darkness). Since Kennedy's assassination, there have been those who theorized there is a phantom government in the United States (and elsewhere). This paranoia has only intensified with the apparent coverup of UFO abductions and sightings. However, the views of these people are not seriously shared by the general populace and are not considered a threat by the Illuminati. The real threat is the Supernatural themselves, specifically the two great powers in the world: The Vampire Elders and the Technocracy. If anyone can find what is going on, these two groups can.

The Technocracy has been generally oblivious to Illuminati activity, generally attributing any strange activity to the Traditions, Garou, or Kindred. They, in their arrogance, could never believe a human could ever reach their power. It's this "mage supremacist" attitude that has hindered their investigation into Illuminati-sponsored activity.

Vampires are the supreme manipulators, or so they thought. Princes have become increasingly worried by the strange increase of Hunter activity and the manipulation of Kindred-held organizations. Like the Technocracy, the Elders of the Clans have been looking to their enemies the Garou (especially the Glass Walkers) for these attacks on Vampire power. They certainly don't believe that Warlock Beltane and his mistaken beliefs about "powerful human secret societies..."

Illuminati have always been in a delicate position. The Societies must remain active to prevent the further domination of mankind by the Supernatural (as well as cement their own brand of control on the populace) but must be very careful to maintain the veil of secrecy which ensures their existence. Unless the Cadres of the Court maintains its level of vigilance, the Societies existence could eventually be threatened.

Lexicon

Common Parlance

Acquisition: The taking over of an Supernatural or Mundane-Influenced holding by one of the Secret Societies.

Basilica: The Headquarters and storehouse of knowledge of a Particular Illuminati Society. It is also the teaching ground for new Agents (Knights) and helps enforce the single-minded purpose of the Conspiracy.

Bishop: The Teacher of New Recruits and Keeper of the knowledge contained within the Basilica.

Cadres: Groups of Knights and Pawns, under control of the Court, who seek out potential breeches of the Pax Concordat and "fix" them.

Challenge of Dominion: The formal name for the process of taking over another Society's Holding through non-violent means.

Cliques: Similar to a Cadre, but composed of Knights and Pawns loyal to only one Society.

Conclave: A lesser council made up of Bishops and Rooks which reports to the Court. They handle matters to menial or unimportant to call a full meeting of the Court.

Conspiracy, The: Plan of action in which the Societies of the Pax Concordat subvert Supernatural influence on Humanity while increasing their grip on mortal society.

Court: The council which is made up of the Queens of all the major Illuminati of the Pax Concordat (except the Enigmatic Stratagem). They judge infractions of the Concordat and interpret its laws.

Creed: Inter-Society groups who share common view on the Conspiracy and the goals of the Illuminati in general. They are often at cross purposes with the Court and the Societies.

Holding: The Name for any organization or business under the control of a Secret Society.

Hostile Takeover: An illegal practice in which a Society wrests control from a rival Illuminati (or seize control of a Supernatural or Mundane Holding) by violent means.

Illuminati: The Collective name of all Secret Societies

Initiation: The creation of a new member of the Societies by brainwashing or other coercion.

Junctions: Small Societies which serve as intermediaries and buffers between two different Holdings.

King: The head of a particular Society.

Knight: Semi-visible Agents of the Societies. Made up by Mortals gifted with special abilities (Numina).

Mundane: Polite term for Humans. The same as Sleeper/Mortal terms used by Mages and Vampires.

Pawn: Lowest rank of the Illuminati. The only rank in which Supernatural are allowed. Considered nothing but tools.

Pax Concordat: The Concord of Peace. A peace treaty signed by the major societies of the Illuminati. Contains the rules by which the Societies operate.

Phantom Veneer: Interchangeable with Masquerade/Veil/etc. Its a term (some say cliché), denoting the secrecy practiced by the Illuminati.

Prime Holding: The most important Holding in a Society with direct links to the Basilica. All other Holdings stem from this one source.

Queen: Members of the Illuminati that have separated themselves from the affairs of the Societies to become representatives to the Court.

Righteous Fury: The equivalent of Society Genocide. The destruction of an entire Society or Throng by the whole of the Pax Concordat. Called many times on Throngs but never on Societies, its the only time Hostile Takeovers are sanctioned.

Rook: Controllers of Holdings, they enforce the Illuminati's will on a dominated business. Rarely seen except when dealing with its Holding.

Shepherd: Codeword used to denote an Illuminati agent, typically a Knight.

Societies: The term for each of the major Illuminati groups involved in the Pax Concordat.

Throng: Small Societies, not part of the Pax Concordat but forced to follow its precepts. They hold no influence in Court (but are influenced by that body). Its status compares to what Bloodlines are to Vampire Clans.

Old Form

Fabula: The bishop's art of interpreting the texts of Basilica.

Latebra: All Supernaturals who hide from public view.

Lingua: The Knights language of verbal communication.

Quaesitor: Term borrowed from the Order of Hermes (House Quaesitoris). Term once used for a Society's Queen.

Vulgar Argot

Abominations: Any Supernatural who has his origins as a human being (Mage, Vampire, Werewolf, Wraith, etc...).

Carnac: A traitor, scum, worthless

Dead Poets Society: The Camarilla (often specifically targeted at the Toreador)

Parasites: Vampires

Warlocks: Mages

Sheep: Mundane humans

Spectres: Wraiths

Organization in the Illuminati

While there are still many differences between Illuminati, the signing of the Pax Concordat created many standard institutions common to all the Societies. The following is an overview of these common organizations in general.

The Pax Concordat

To understand the Illuminati Society, you must first understand the Pax Concordat. It is Illuminati Society. It is the guide to which all agents follow, the cornerstone on which the Conspiracy is now resting. Everyone in the Society believes that the Pax Concordat is the only reason why the Illuminati have kept their secrecy for all these years. The Pax Concordat is contained in a large leather-bound tome in each of the Society's Basilica. It is a work that is encoded and filled with misleading passages that only a trained Bishop can understand. Though the work has long and specific rules, the Illuminati hasn't the time needed to contact the Bishop every time they wish to initiate an acquisition. So the Societies have condensed the Pax Concordat into several common sense rules that listed below.

I) Secretum: No Illuminati agent, no matter what his station, can reveal the existence of the Secret Societies to an outside member.

This rule is the most steadfast law. Like the Vampires and Werewolves, the Illuminati are very strict in upholding this edict, for a breech in Secretum could be the end of the Illuminati's existence. The penalty for breeching this law is a lengthy, painful death (which could be dragged out for months). Many of the Societies have invented terrible fates for traitors, generally ensuring that secrecy will be ensured.

II) Principalis: The first priority is the Conspiracy. All other duties, whether personal or the work of the Societies is secondary.

This rule basically states that if there is a choice between furthering the Conspiracy and other possible goals, that the Conspiracy comes first. In practice, the Societies rarely let anything get away from their own plans and ambitions, even the Conspiracy.

III) Dominus: If an Illuminati has influence over the decisions of a Holding, it is theirs. No other Illuminati can exert influence over it unless it is a Challenge of Dominion.

If a Society controls enough of a Holding (say by controlling the President/Chairman or a majority of stockholders) to make decisions unimpeded, then the whole Holding is theirs. No sabotage can be made by rival Societies, unless they formally declare a Challenge of Dominion. Again, in practice the Illuminati rarely let another's conquest run smoothly, though they make sure the problems cannot be directly traced back to them.

IV) Gravitus: When undergoing an Acquisition or a Challenge of Dominion, violence is expressly forbidden. Influence and all other non-violent means are the tools you must use.

Violence garners too much attention, opening the Illuminati to possible scrutiny by the outside world. Therefore influence through bribes, brainwashing, blackmail, etc. are the only means to get Holdings. Of course, violence is used in illegal "Hostile Takeovers". Societies are not quick to accuse another of such tactics, however, due to the fact that some past sin (such as a previous Hostile Takeover) might be dredged up by those blamed.

V) Solus: Against the Supernatural hordes, the Illuminati will be as one force. No Society may deal with the Latebra, to attack a rival Society or to further their own goals.

Another steadfast rule of the Illuminati. Breaking this rule has similar consequences as rule I. Against their mortal enemies, the Societies must work together as a team, using their special talents to their best advantage. Not to do so could be catastrophic.

VI) Prudentia: The Court has supreme authority in all matters brought before it. To ignore or defy its rulings bring misfortune on the guilty.

If a breach of the Pax Concordat, or at the very least a matter of interpreting its rules, is brought before the Court, then its ruling is made law. If it is openly defied or questioned, the perpetrator will be punished. This includes censure and lost of rank, to torture and possible death. The Court will not be questioned, though many Illuminati only give lip-service to this law. In recent history, the Court has lost much of its power to control its members. However, the recent problems with Beltane and his followers have given the Court new resolve and power. This power has been transferred onto their Cadres.

The Conspiracy

The Conspiracy, as stated numerous times before, is a scheme that involves all the Societies. Though the current method of influence and control of society from the shadows is thought to stem from the Conspiracy, it really has more to do with the Pax Concordat than anything else. Remember, the Conspiracy outdates the Pax Concordat by centuries.

This Conspiracy is not as much a plan as it is a list of goals. The Court believes these goals are to be met at any cost, the Illuminati are merely at tool to that end. The Societies, on the other hand use the Conspiracy as a tool for their own plans. This often creates a rift in the Society hierarchy as the Queens of the Court and the Kings of the Illuminati clash over courses of action.

In short, the Conspiracy has three broadly-worded precepts, each interpreted by the Societies to fit their own goals:

1) The end of Supernatural dominance over humankind.
2) Completely influence the course of the mundane world
3) Raise humanity to an intellectual and enlightened state

These lofty goals sound very noble, but it must be stressed that while the Court wishes to see all three precepts followed, many of the Illuminati only care about number two: Dominance of the humankind. The Creeds (see Chapter 4) within a Society often debate what Conspiracy precepts are important or redundant, often leading to heated arguments and even outbreaks of violence.

The Court

The Court is the supreme tribunal of the Illuminati. It is composed up of five Queens, one from each of the Societies of the Pax Concordat except the Enigmatic Stratagem. Its not even known whether the Stratagem even has a Queen, or follows any of the trapping of Illuminati Society.

Every year is a meeting in some neutral place, chosen randomly from a list of hundreds of locations. These locations are owned by the Court and are sometimes used as safe-houses for agents in danger. Meetings are also held every time a breech of the Pax Concordat is brought forth, or when a rule must be interpreted. At attendance in the Court are all the Queens of the Societies, the Archbishops of each Basilica, and possibly some high-ranking Rooks (acting as personal representatives of the King).

To best describe the court is to think of it has a debating club. When a matter is brought forth, the evidence is presented, people give testimony (if you are subpoenaed, you had better show up!), and then the topic is thoroughly debated. Finally, a vote is taken an the result is recorded by the resident Bishops for their respective Basilica. The matter is then closed. Their rule is final and there is no recourse for appeal. To defy them is a dangerous game, though it is one that all the Illuminati have learned to play very well.

While the Court handles all important matters in the Illuminati, it takes too much organization to organize a meeting for every seemingly important occurrence. Therefore, the Court has smaller "Conclaves", made up of Bishops and Rooks, which handle lesser matters. Conclaves are made up of ten members, one Bishop and Rook from all recognized Illuminati (except, of course, the Enigmatic Stratagem). The Conclave makes a detailed report to the Court every year and has a right to convene a Court session if the need arises (though they better have a good reason!). They also have lesser Court powers and any decisions rendered are only cancelled a Queen. There is at least one Conclave for each of the five Societies which sit on the Court, plus at least a dozen Conclaves which handle threats to the Illuminati has a whole (a quarter of which are devoted to keeping tabs on the Enigmatic Stratagem).

Basilica

Originally a small underground tomb or hidden structure, the modern day Basilica are huge complexes underneath the ground. They are multi-story structures, crammed with natural and man-made obstacles to intrusion. Mundane forces will meet (if they ever found the Basilica, unlikely as it may be) a horde of fanatical, heavily-armed Knights, remote machine guns and flamethrowers, and tripwire grenades and claymores. Supernaturals could find their Umbral passage blocked by a Garou or Dreamspeaker Pawns, and Correspondence will often be blocked by interesting Technomancer constructs. While successfully invading a Basilica is possible, its almost always a suicide mission.

Most of the Basilica is dedicated to the vast library, composed of stone tablets, papyrus, leather-bound tomes, and even computer programs. Connected to the Library is an extensive complex of sleeping quarters, recreation and entertainment complexes for the Bishops. There are also dark areas for Initiation and torture, as well as extravagant floors dedicated solely for King and Queen use.

Note that player characters, unless working for the Illuminati (and brainwashed into loyalty), will likely never find a Basilica, let alone successfully penetrate it.

Society Hierarchy

At one time each society had its own ranking system, each corresponding to their unique world view. The Pax Concordat set up a standard system of Society status to be followed by all Illuminati in emergency situations. During those important occasions, when they were fighting against supernatural forces, it's important to know everyone's place in their own Society. There is enough rivalry between the Illuminati already without adding the arguments over leadership. Over the years this ranking system has been integrated into the Society's power structure. Though they may be referred to by different names and have slightly different arrangements, most societies now follow the standard Concordat ranks.

The current hierarchy was based on the game of chess. This was how most of the Society leaders thought of the Conspiracy at that time. The King was the leader of the Society, given authority questionable only by the Court. The Queen (also called a Quaesitor) was given a seat on the Court and no longer concerns themselves with Society affairs. Rooks control the holdings of the Society, while Knights act as its enforcers. Bishops are the true "sages" of the Illuminati and are the keepers of the Society's Basilica. Finally the term Pawn was given to all those who are under the control of the Society, whether directly or indirectly. More on the hierarchy in Chapter Three.

Cadres

The Cadre are the elite troubleshooters of the Court, created to help solve the growing problems facing the Societies. Each Society represented in the Court must donate a number of promising Knights and Pawns to form Cadres. This multi-society band of agents, numbering anywhere from four to more than a dozen, must swear their allegiance to the Court and them alone. Failing to do so results in the Court's own brand of Initiation (involving very unpleasant Brainwashing techniques).

The Cadre's responsibility is to fix any problem the Court thinks is a possible threat to Illuminati security. This includes potential rogue agents (rare as they may be), lost texts from a Basilica, and possible uncovering of Society activities by supernatural or mundane sources. The Cadres are spies, assassins, interrogators, commandos, and terrorists all at the same time. Though their importance is great, Cadres know almost nothing about the Societies they work for. They are gathered together secretly and told their mission via tape recorder or video tape (watch Mission: Impossible for ideas). They may know their objectives, but will never know the reasons behind them.

With the success of the Cadres, it wasn't long until the individual Societies began fielding similar groups as the Cadres filled with only their own faithful agents. Called Cliques, these groups fill similar roles as the Cadres, though may also be called on in Acquisitions, Challenges of Dominion, and Hostile Takeovers.

Chapter Three: Character

While Illuminati was originally conceived as an omnipresent enemy for characters to face, it is conceivable that people would actually like to play characters involved in the great Conspiracy. Though compared to the Supernaturals in the World of Darkness, agents of the Societies are often pretty weak in comparison. However, they do have a very powerful organization, rich in resources and talent, actively backing them up on missions. Against the Abominations, a character Knight cannot hold his own in a direct fight. Yet the Illuminati have more tools at their disposal than mere guns or explosives. There are more subtle ways to harm your enemies.

Creating a Character

I. Concept

Any concept is possible with Illuminati characters, the more unorthodox the better. Anything from Archbishops to Zookeepers are acceptable and encouraged. Stereotypical agents are not a good idea!

II. Nature and Demeanor

The character's Demeanour is the facade he puts up around him. Therefore the player is free to choose any Demeanour that fits his character concept.

Nature is another matter. Those illuminati of ranks Rook, Bishop, Queen or King; as well as those Pawns or Knights who were not brainwashed may choose freely. However, those characters who have been put through mind control techniques have Natures set by their captors. This is often Conformer, Fanatic, Conniver, and Loner; though it could be others too. Natures of Brainwashed victims are usually chosen by the Storyteller.

III. Rank

As far as characters are concerned there are only two ranks which will suit adventuring characters, that of Knight and Pawn. Rooks may be allowed as player characters, depending upon the particular Chronicle and Storyteller. Each Rank's duties will list special Character Generation rules and required skills/backgrounds. See part b) for more information on the ranking system of the Societies.

IV. Society

This author recommends that your Storyteller choose which Society you belong to, this especially if you a Pawn or Brainwashed Knight. Its almost never a matter of individual choice.

Societies will also recommend Backgrounds and Skills that would be of use to them (and why, perhaps, you were chosen by them).

V. Attributes and Abilities

Attributes: 7/5/3
Abilities: 13/9/5
Backgrounds: 7
Virtues: 9 (a personal house rule for all mortals; use 7 if you wish)
Freebie Points: Variable (Dependant on Rank)

VI Money and Equipment

Besides personal goods, most equipment and weapons needed for your missions will be provided to you by the Societies themselves. While individualism is tolerated (and sometimes encouraged), the Illuminati frown on equipment and clothing which draw attention to the agent (or his employers; i.e.. no heavy weaponry, explosives, tactical nuclear weapons, etc.)

Some unique gear is listed below.

Society Ranks

Pawns

At the lowest end of the hierarchy is the Pawn. Pawns are the workhorse of any Illuminati Society, a network of contacts and slaves that are given the most unimportant tasks. They are recruited from ordinary citizens, chosen specifically for their ability to integrate into society and their usefulness to the Illuminati. There are many types of pawns: Unwitting helpers, dupes, hired experts and consultants, members of front organizations.

The methods of Initiation vary among this rank, but Brainwashing is rarely done. Its not necessary for them, for they hold no information, nor are they a serious threat to security. Societies tend to follow the acronym M.I.C.E: Money, Ideology, Coercion, Ego. Blackmail, Bribes, and Persuasion using both beliefs and narcissism are (and have always been) quick and easy ways to ensure loyalty and obedience. Pawns are often controlled through a Society's holding (often a Holding they employed with). They are often totally unaware they are working for a secret society, let alone one as powerful as an Illuminati.

At best, a Pawn can be considered a "Sleeper" agent (not to be confused with the Mage term for unawakened humans). Continuing their lives unimpeded, they are only used when circumstances warrant it. Rarely are they used in sensitive operations (unless they have been Brainwashed) and are never combat trained. Typical missions for a Pawn are information gathering, shadowing/tailing suspects, research, and petty crimes.

Supernaturals are also recruited as Pawns (it's the only rank that allows them as members). However, they are chosen for their unique talents rather than their ability to fit in. They serve as defensive measures against magically endowed individuals or those creatures that can easily bypass the mundane security devices the Illuminati deploy. Other than the fact that Supernatural Pawns are always Brainwashed, they are quite similar to their mundane brothers.

Character Generation: No special skills required. Create a Mortal/Vampire/Werewolf/Mage/Mummy character as normal.

Freebie Points: Based on your breed (15 normally for Vampires, Mages, and Werewolves, 21 for Mortals, 30 for Mummies)

Knights

Knights are the elite shocktroops of the Societies, expendable agents with specialties in espionage and covert operations. Just above Pawns in the hierarchy of the Illuminati, these fanatical warriors are recruited from ex-service personnel, former agents and police officers, and anyone who shows who shows paranormal abilities (Numina).

Brainwashing is the normal procedure for Knights. Only rarely does someone show the devotion and self-sacrifice needed to be a Knight. Absolute loyalty is engrained in them throughout their year-long training in secluded camps throughout the world. The Knight is best suited for the tactical elimination of enemies. This elimination is ideally (according to the Pax Concordat) non-violent, but deadly force is also used.

Knights are experts in surveillance and entrapment, getting evidence which can be used to persuade or ruin an individual. The also have knowledge in commando and other special forces operations. Standard operating procedure is to make all covert operations look like routine terrorist actions. Sabotage is made to look like corporate espionage or "Eco-Terrorism"; Assassinations and Bombings are carefully staged to appear the work of extreme factions of such groups as the IRA.

The amount of information a knight knows is totally dependant on the skills and natural abilities he or she possesses. Those with Merits of Iron Will, or have extensive Numina abilities are often allowed more knowledge about the Illuminati than the mundane agents with no supernatural abilities. Normal agents may know they are working for the a secret society (and may even given a pseudonym to identify it), but has no knowledge of its personnel or practices. Knights endowed with the necessary special gifts may know a bit more, such as their immediate superiors and the influence the Society has over the local area he is assigned to . Though the exact number of Knights with Numina is great (around 75-80%), less than one in ten have the Merits or Transcendental powers to warrant even nominal insight into the Illuminati.

Character Generation: Knights have primaries in Physical Traits and Skills. They generally should have a good selection of espionage and military skills such as Firearms, Subterfuge, Survival, and Alertness. The also must take the Lingua skill, the spoken version of the Rook's Fabula. Background of use to the Knights are Contacts and Arcane (you ever notice on the X-Files that the enemy agents always disappear after rounding a corner and never seem to appear on cameras?) Numina is also very common with Knights but preferred supernatural abilities vary with Society.

Freebie Points: Standard 21

Rooks

Rooks are the cornerstone of any Society, these "enforce" the Illuminati's will in their respective holdings. After a successful Acquisition or Challenge of Dominion, the Rook enters the scene and maintains order. Rooks are generally trusted Illuminati individuals (often born into the Society through hereditary lines) who were employed by the future Holding months or years before the Illuminati arrived.

The masters of subterfuge, manipulation and brainwashing, a Rook ensures that the Holding is completely "loyal" to the powers that be. Rooks are often given a Clique (Society version of a Cadre) of Knights to help in the pacification of the Holding. Often the Rook has an entourage of Brainwashing experts (themselves being brainwashed pawns) or Knights that have likewise have the required Intelligence background.

Using their special abilities, key personnel are Initiated as Pawns into the Illuminati. Rooks then stay in the Holding in small, unimportant positions, watching for insurrection or outside influence.

Of all agents in exposed or semi-exposed positions, the Rooks possess the most knowledge of their Society. They know they work for the Illuminati, its name, and their immediate superior (usually another Knight, but rarely a Bishop). They generally have no idea about the scope of the Illuminati but are still well protected (just in case...).

Character Generation: Social Traits are Primary, but may choose whether Skills or Knowledge's are dominant. All Rooks must take the knowledge of Brainwashing, and most have the Allies, Contacts, or Resources. Some Rooks have the Merit Iron Will...

Freebie Points: 21

Bishops

Keepers of Society dogma, masters of information, historians without equal. Bishops are generally not available to Player Characters because of their isolated existence. Bishops are the masters of the Basilica and has such have historical records dating back for into what the mundane world calls prehistory. Some of the older records include the written versions of the original human oral-histories, many of which date back to the latter end of the Impergium. Each individual Basilica has different records, depending on its age and original geographic location. Besides history, the Basilica holds the records of all Illuminati members, past and present, and details Society business and progress form the earliest times.

There are about a dozen Bishops in each Basilica, lead by one of their number (called an Archbishop). Bishops are chosen from the brightest of the mundane in the general area of the Basilica. They are snatched from elite schools and from families who have shown a history of high intelligence. Many of the unsolved child abductions are not the work of child molesters or serial killers, but are in fact the latest inductees into the Illuminati. The children are taught from their earliest moments in the Society that they are the most important force in their organization and without it, humanity is lost. Loyalty and Sacrifice are engrained in their minds, and they are given the greatest secrets that the Societies have to offer.

For they learn Fabula, the ancient art of translating Basilica text. It is in a long-forgotten dialect, written in an ancient alphabet, and intricately encoded. Filled with false passages, and special paragraphs to mislead the uninitiated, it takes very intelligent and dedicated individuals to interpret and copy the text. In fact, Bishops are the only ones allowed to take the Fabula skill; it is taught to no other, under penalty of death. This system is so complex, that it took Corvus Beltane (see "Shamans of Beltane" in Chapter 5) over 350 years to decipher the code and translate the language and dialect. Even then, he did not manage to separate the true passages from the false. It's only by these special measures taken to protect the Society's knowledge that the Illuminati have survived for these millennia.

Bishops, due to their wide-spread knowledge of the Illuminati, are sequestered in their hidden Basilica, protected by some of the best Knights available. Mage, Vampire, and Garou Pawns are often used to prevent Supernaturals from finding the Basilica and penetrating it via mystical or spiritual means. So important are the Bishops to the Illuminati, they often never see the light of day.

Character Generation: Mental Attributes and Knowledge are Primary. Other than taking the Fabula skill, there are no prerequisites to being a Bishop.

Freebie Points: 21

Queens

Queens are the judges of the Illuminati. Sitting on the great and powerful Court, the Queen makes sure the rules of the Pax Concordat are followed to the letter and interpret the rules are they apply to new situations. [Author note: The "rules interpretations" are important generally if player characters pursue or inquire about an unorthodox method which may or may not break the Pax Concordat at (such as, say framing the target with murder, which might be considered a Hostile Takeover since violence has been used to gain a Holding). Remember, the Court's rule is law! No appeals. Players who ignore Court rulings better pray they don't get caught...]

Chosen from the ranks of the Illuminati (normally, an experienced Archbishop or trusted Rook), the Queen is inaugurated into the Court in a secret ceremony in one of the Courts meeting places. The Queen (or Quaesitor, using the archaic term) then looses any influence upon the Society they represent. Though they become the greatest power in the Illuminati, they only have nominal power in their old power structure. This discrepancy means that though the Court, as a whole, can reprimand Societies, individual Queens have no power to enforce the Concordat on their own (and often do not report observed internal breeches of the Concordat, due to loyalty to that Society).

Queens, though they must move to many secret locations, are almost never caught in the open. All Quaesitors have personal Virtual Adepts, other Correspondence Mages, or equivalent Garou/Vampires to "teleport" them from place to place. They are also accompanied by at least one Court-appointed Cadre for personal protection. If they must move in the open, they are given protection unequaled by even heads of state. Only Kings warrant greater protection, though they rarely leave their fortified offices.

Character Generation: They are picked from the ranks of Bishops, Rooks, or very rarely Knights. Create a character from those ranks, then give them an extra 30 freebie points.

Freebie Points: See Above

Kings

Legendary controllers of the Societies, they are the most mysterious of any of the ranks. They are the supreme rulers of their own Illuminati, with personal goals that can only be guessed at. Because of the secrecy and isolation involved with the King, the identity (or even gender) of the Society monarch has become a lasting secret. A strict hereditary system, Kings choose their favorite (and/or most gifted) children for their replacement. The succession is never announced to the crew and only the Queen and a special Rook (his "mouthpiece") know when the change occurs (and the Kings real identity, for that matter).

Cloistered in a special floor, exclusively tailored for the expensive tastes of the King, the Society's leader is never seen outside his domain. The floor is impregnable with massive technological, mystical, and spiritual barriers. In the history of the Illuminati, no King has been assassinated, attacked, or even approached without prior authorization. Then again, if a King had been killed, its doubtful they Society would advertise the fact...

Character Generation: They need no special skills besides being born into the "Royal" family. Anyway, player characters are not going to meet a King in their life time, are they?

Freebie Points: As much as they want...

Society Rank Variations

As stated before, the Pax Concordat set a standard ranking system in times of emergency. Over time it has been integrated into the societies. However, the Societies are loathe to give up their traditions and even those Creeds who are supported by the Court are often resentful of the compromises placed upon them by the Pax Concordat. [Author note: Remember, though the Societies and Creeds believe the Court is a necessary evil, very few are staunch supporters. Unlike Vampire society, there are very few "Ancillae", save perhaps for the members of the Shadow Bank (whom few people trust anyway)]

Therefore, the Societies tend to have varied hierarchies which though superficially different, generally follow standard Concordat hierarchy. They are listed below:

The Blood Covenant has seven grades, linked to the planets and their symbols. Initiation into each grade is surrounded by complex mystical rituals and binding oaths (often variations of the Blood Covenant; the ancient ritual which gives the Society its name).

There are three grades of Pawns used by the Blood Covenant. Mundane people and those mundane who are actively being manipulated by the Society are sometimes viewed as belonging to the grade of Earth. Two grades control the Pawns and are under the control of the Rook (Jupiter grade) they themselves are brainwashed pawns:

Moon: The Huntress, Queen of spirits, madness and nature. Mind control, hedge magic and occult matters.

Venus: The Seductress, manipulation and espionage.

Bishops are part of the grade of Mercury: Great Hermes, the God of magic and communication.

Knights are of Mars: The God of War, military power.

Rooks belong to grade Jupiter: The Lord of the world (Rex Mundi), worldly power (due to their direct influence of the mundane world).

Queens, because of their visible rulership as a member of the Court holds the rank of the Sun: The Glorious ruler.

Finally the King is called Saturn: The Hidden One, the dark unknown ruler.

Within the Society, characters are address using last-named and their rank. Nicholas Caliburn, a Knight, would be addressed as Caliburn of Mars. If he was a Queen, he would be called Caliburn of the Sun.

Enigmatic Stratagem. As will be said later in this supplement, not very much is known about the "official" hierarchy of the Stratagem. Pawns, in general, are identical to standard Concordat precepts (or so it seems). Knights, however seem to be divided into two distinct groups. One group dresses and acts very similar to the New World Order's Men in Black (Dark suits, mirror shades, and black Cadillacs). They generally operate like any other Knight. The other group of Knights are actual Technomancer constructs (like real Men in Black and Hit Marks). They seem to be totally loyal to the Society and are most common when dealing directly with Supernaturals (in an obvious ploy to redirect blame to the Technocracy). Nonetheless, these "Techno-Knights" (as they have come to be called) make a lot of Illuminati very nervous.

Though no one knows about the higher ranks of the Stratagem, there is no reason to believe that they are any different than the Society norm.

The Global Elite only gives higher ranks titles, fitting with their aristocratic attitudes. Pawns are not worth of any moniker (and as such are often considered very expendable; Global Elite pawns are the worst treated of any of the Societies). Each of the higher ranks are considered separate institutions and as such are somewhat autonomous from each other (this is in contrast to the familiar "ladder" organization which is consistent with the other Illuminati). Knights are part of the "BlackStorm Brigades", the paramilitary assassins so feared by the Societies.

Rooks are divided up by the organizations they represent. Those part of the Political arena are part of the "Imperialists", while those involved in Corporate or Lobbyist activity are known as the Capitalists and the Arbitrators respectively. Each Rook division has its own areas of influence and a multitude of pawns.

Bishops, known as Coordinators, not only are information gatherers but act as intermediaries between the BlackStorm Brigades and the various Rook institutions. They are very influential in the Global Elite's affairs.

Queens are not well liked by this Illuminati. They are often quarrelsome members of the Society which have been granted this position to get them out of their hair. When referring to a Queen, they Global Elite simply refer to them as their "Representative".

The King (or "President") is no different from that of any other Society, though the Global Elite propaganda may say differently.

Keepers of Secrets. Rooks and Bishops are the most prominent in the Keepers of Secrets. Like the Global Elite, the Rooks ("Compilers") are separated in several divisions. However, they are not autonomous by any means; merely sub-divisions of the Rook/Compiler organization. Each Compiler division concentrates on a certain area: Some scan the printed media, broadcasts, and the more interesting areas of the Internet, while still others listen to phone lines and street "gossip". The Bishops (or Archivists) store the information gained for future "reference".

Pawns are unchanged from Concordat norm and are known in KoS circles as Allies and Contacts.

The Representative to the Court (the Queen) is known only as the Oracle. There is no known King, which leads to much speculation on who exactly rules the Keepers of Secrets. Some have even gone so far as to allude that the King <EMISthe Oracle. If so, this would make this Society the only one which had an visible leader. Then again, why would a King leave himself open to attack? As with most of the Illuminati, the Lurkers have no plans to reveal any their mysterious.

Pantheon, not surprisingly generally uses religious monikers for their ranks. Most pawns are referred to as "The Faithful", detonating their loyalty to the Society. Knights are often called the "Knights Templar" or just Templars to confuse them with the Throng of the same name (such as is listed in Nephilim: Occult RPG) and with the those of the Sabbat. Rooks are referred to as Archbishops and Bishops as Cardinals (again to confuse matters). Queens are referred to as a Hierophant, and the King is referred to as the Vicar.

The Vicar has often been linked to the true Pope of the Catholic church, but its unlikely they are one and the same. In fact, though the Pantheon has great influence in Catholic (and Protestant, Jewish, Islam etc), they keep themselves somewhat separate from religious hierarchies and positions.

Shadow Bank Hierarchy is very Corporate in nature. Pawns are the Employees, dutifully "working" this Illuminati. Knights belong to Society "Security", while Rooks are part of "Public Relations". Bishops are called Executives and the Queen is given the title of Press Secretary. There is no single Shadow Bank King. It is in fact made up of a council known as the Board. The CEO, the head member of the Board fulfils any duties of the King, while another member of that same Board represents the King at Court meetings (Note: This representation is separate from the Queen and other Societies send trusted Bishops and Rooks to act as the King's "observers" during Court proceedings).

Societies of the Pax Concordat

Blood Covenant

Nickname: Cultists

The oldest Society, the Blood Covenant used to be the greatest Illuminati on the planet. However, time has not been kind to the Blood Covenant and much of its former glory and power has been diminished. The first sign of decline came when long before the Pax Concordat, when many of its "colonial" Societies, seeded to provide new areas for Covenant control, became independent and formed their own Societies. As time went on, these new Societies would steal valuable holdings from their former masters.

The most debilitating force came from Christianity, nominally controlled by the Celestial Chorus and secretly influenced by the Pantheon. Placing all faith in priests and popes, not mystics and shamans, the growing power of Christians ravaged Covenant control while boosting the Pantheon's influence.

Over the years, the Blood Covenant has tried to regain some of its former distinction, supporting the Barbarians against Rome, sponsoring the Viking Wars, and even going so far as to back the Order of Hermes during the Mythic Age. Yet the Vikings were eventually lost in a Challenge of Dominion to the Pantheon, and the Order of Hermes eventually collapsed.

When the Court voted to ignore the Techomancer's manipulation of reality, the Covenant was furious. It had totally been against the idea, the only dissenter in the Pax Concordat. They were sure it was some plot by the other Societies to steal their holdings and power. They even wondered if the Technocrats (and the fabled "Architects of Reason") hadn't subverted the Court and its members. The relationship between the Blood Covenant and the other societies is strained even to this day. They also share an arch-rivalry with the Pantheon, whom they blame for the Christian destruction of Paganism.

With the Age of Reason, it seemed that the Blood Covenant would be swallowed by the other Societies, but that was not the case. Instead of destroying mysticism, it just forced it underground. Blood Covenant gained control by bringing powerful individuals into secret Occult circles, both hidden and overt. This ensured that even though Mysticism was not widely accepted, the Covenant still had influence over the mundane world. Every once and a while these groups would attempt to gain acceptance in the open, sparking organizations as the Rosicrucians, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, and individuals such as Aleister Crowley. The success of such incursions varied widely, though they are gaining more recognition as the hold that the Church has had on society has weakened. The Blood Covenant is not only involved in "curses" and spells. Since they control Psychics from around the world, they can convince a superstitious populace of anything (through tarot readings, etc).

The emergence of older religions, particularly those called "Neo-Pagan", have given the Covenant reason to believe a new age of power and control might be at hand. The most prominent of these new (or perhaps really old) religions, that of Wicca, has become a prime target for the Blood Covenant...and a great source of consternation. Without any rigid hierarchy, such as is found with the Catholic Church, the Covenant finds it very difficult to gain widespread control. Also, the Wika (a Verbena sub-tradition linked closely to Wicca) have thwarted the Illuminati at every turn. Though their cover is secure for the time being, the Blood Covenant must be careful lest the Wika stumble on dangerous information. Many other Societies have remarked that the Society is desperate enough to risk anything for power, even break the unbreakable rules of the Pax Corcordat. Already some have accused this Society of consorting with Infernal powers, some going so far as to say have totally fallen under demonic influence. Whatever the case, they are being watched closely.

The term Blood Covenant refers not to their mystical rituals, but the blood oath that each new member swears to the Society. This rite is practiced in every Society in one form or another, but none has the history and meaning as that of the Blood Covenant.

Goal: Mystical forces have created the Supernatural that threatens us now. Therefore it will only be by unearthing the greatest Arcane secrets, that will give us the key to our salvation. The control and influence of all Occult, Psychic, Pagan, and Neo-Pagan organizations and societies are important to reaching our goals, though me must make them more acceptable if we are to use them to influence the mundane world.

Basilica: A tomb located near the Giza Pyramids, Egypt.

Suspected Holdings: Warlock Covens, Order of the Golden Dawn, the Rosicrucians (elements in both the Sleeper and Mage sects), the Arcanum, Psychic hot-lines, various Paranormal research institutions, Masons and the Royal Family of England, possible involvement with Infernal groups (including the Wyrm, Nephandi, and Demons of the Inferno).

Preferred Backgrounds and Skills: Occult is the only skill that is required of Blood Covenant members, though Investigation is also highly prized. Covenant Knights, if they have Numina, generally choose Hedge Magic.

Stereotypes:

Enigmatic Stratagem: Mysterious and arcane, they could be our brothers, if we could ever contact them.

Global Elite: Politics and diplomacy is not the answer. Their bureaucracy slows the pace of the Conspiracy, while the actions of the Black Storm threaten to breech our veil of secrecy.

Keepers of Secrets: Though they conspired against us with the other Societies, we have no quarrel with them. They seek knowledge, like us, but not in the right places.

Pantheon: Foul butchers, these Illuminati have purposely sought to destroy our power. Their religion has done much harm to us, but its time is now past. We will see how they like being persecuted.

Shadow Bank: Money, stocks and bonds will not answer the questions needed to overpower the Abominations. You are wasted assets, ones that are best liquidated.

Enigmatic Stratagem

Nickname: Aliens

Of this Illuminati, there is almost nothing known. It doesn't even have an official name. The current moniker used to identify this reclusive group was first coined by the Global Elite's Queen, saying "Of them we no nothing; neither their name or anything about their enigmatic stratagem". The name somehow stuck. Though officially part of the Pax Concordat, it does not sit on the Court. It has only met with the Court once, when its Queen (?) arrived unannounced and told the council "[They] would abide by [the Illuminati's] laws". The Court voted the Stratagem into the Concord of Peace only because its power now rivaled theirs. There still are many who are sure that one day the Court will have to call Righteous Fury upon the Stratagem, once their real aims are revealed.

The group now called the Enigmatic Stratagem first appeared around the mid to late 1800's. It came without warning, from no apparent source. The other Illuminati suddenly began to lose holdings in rapid succession. Not a general takeover, but singular specific organizations. Zoological societies and other groups involved in biological research were targeted first. The Stratagem's other targets, reclusive scientists and theorists, seemed to defy explanation. It would be until the two world wars that the its goals were beginning to come to light. From its early, unimportant acquisitions, the Enigmatic Stratagem had a firm foothold in the advanced technology and biological research market. It had predicted the great rise of technical achievement of the world wars almost a century previous. It would also be evident later on that the Stratagem had already prophesied the biological and genetic revolutions of recent years. Some have wondered whether the Stratagem had inside information on the aims of the Technocracy. Perhaps the Enigmatic Stratagem has influence over the Technocracy, or is under its influence...

What bothers the Court is that Stratagem has taken upon itself to further its biological knowledge through very strange and dangerous means. The rash of "Alien Abductions" over the years is not wholly the work of Technocrats or Umbral spirits. Some are the experiments of the Enigmatic Stratagem, accomplished through the mysterious creatures some mundane call the "Greys". These drab, frail-bodied creatures have extended craniums and large eyes. They have been present in a number of abduction cases in North America in the last few decades. Though they are not a proven reality, the Societies are certain they are the first fruits of the Stratagems decade long technological and biological research scheme. These "Greys" seem to be endowed with great psychic ability and heightened intelligence. Are these things real? If so, how much of their creation lies in mundane knowledge and how much lies with the sphere of life, used by the Technomancer Progenitor Pawns.

In addition, the Enigmatic Stratagem has some very advanced aircraft, possibly incorporating Technomancer technology, or technology melded with the mind powers of the Greys. Despite what the tabloids print, there is evidence that only a dozen "saucers" that are operated the Stratagem. Other craft stem from the Void Engineers and possibly creatures from beyond the Gauntlet. Many other sightings are complete hoaxes. The hoaxes keep the mundane from acknowledging the presence of aliens on the planet, though the number of believers are growing. This increasing belief in alien abduction and the presence of the supernatural has only been stemmed by the Stratagem's influence in strategic government agencies. Yet the other Societies are watching them closely just in case government leverage is not enough. There are at least half a dozen Cadres permanently assigned to protect the Stratagem (whether the like it or not) from the peering eyes of the mundane and supernatural world. If there is going to be a serious breech of the Concordat, the odds are good that the Stratagem will cause it.

This Society also has a unique and baffling hierarchy, nothing like the others in the Pax Concordat. It is clear that the Stratagem has leader(s), so they will have some sort of King. They also seem to have a Queen, though its uncertain whether it is a full time position or one of convenience. Rooks are definitely in use by the Society, filling duties that emulate their society brethren. If anything, the Rooks are the only thing common the Stratagem has in common with the Illuminati, besides the Pawns. What position the Greys fit in the Society is anyone's guess, though it is possible they are Bishops or Knights. It is also known that the Society operates converted "Men in Black", specially ordered to discourage investigations into the supernatural. Whether the MiB are Pawns or Knights is also unknown.

Goal: Unknown. Generally seems to involve radical biological research, genetic engineering, and advanced technological testing. The reason for this, their plans, or even the accordance to the Pax Corcordat is a complete mystery.

Basilica: Believed to be somewhere under Area 51, also known as Dreamland, an semi-secret air base located on Groom Lake, Nevada.

Suspected Holdings: Bio-technical and Technological firms around the world, US Air Force.

Preferred Backgrounds and Skills: Again, unknown. Is not even understood if they have requirements or preferences. Human Knights (?) which have been encountered have extensive psychic powers.

Stereotypes:

All Societies: We acknowledge you. Do not get in our way.

Global Elite

Nickname: Plutocrats

The Global Elite came from the same Seeded Society as the Pantheon. From influential members within Roman society, the group split up at the height of the Roman Empire. The factions disagreed on which organizations in Rome were the best platforms for world dominance. The faction which would later become the Global Elite thought that one should control the Senate and the powerful Families which influenced Imperial politics. The group which would form the Pantheon wanted command of the powerful priesthood of the Roman gods. They parted on good terms and retain amicable relations (along with a friendly rivalry). The Global Elite have remained dynamic throughout the past 2000 years, and now are the most powerful Illuminati in the World. The Elite is the most direct of all Societies when it comes to the Conspiracy. "If you must control something", these Illuminati say, "go straight to the top". They control the most powerful people in society: Politicians, Heads of State, and the those with the most political influence . From Capitol hill to the heads of government lobby groups, if supernaturals involve themselves in the affairs of government, they inevitably lock horns with agents of the Global Elite.

When trouble brews, the Global Elite deals with the threat in a forward manner. Of any in the Pax Concordat, the Elite is the most guilty of Hostile Takeovers and blatant assassinations. Their hit squad cliques (the infamous "Black Storm" brigades; so-called because of their Nazi-style black uniforms, complete with jackboots) and widely known and feared in the Pax Concordat. They are the first troops to be sent in when a Righteous Fury is called down upon a Throng.

Though they are guilty of breeches of the Concordat due to their violent methods, no Society would dare accuse them of such wrongdoing. Being the most powerful Society in the world, the Elite could cripple any Throng and give any Society much grief. Accusers often meet terrible ends (often involving very regrettable "accidents"). Strength has its privileges...

Goal: To sweep away those of paranormal existence requires firm leadership. We must first control the decision makers, the respected and admired people of this world. Once we have controlled the planet through them, we can then unshackle the world from the supernatural powers.

Basilica: Somewhere near the United Nations Building, New York State

Suspected Holdings: Government offices in many countries, the political lobby, defense contractors.

Preferred Backgrounds and Skills: To succeed in the Global Elite, most characters should have some skills in Bureaucracy and Politics. Knights of the Global Elite are the only enforcers of the Societies in which Numina is not encouraged. Instead, Knights are trained in mind and body strengthening techniques (Merits such as Iron Will and Hand of God).

Stereotypes:

Blood Covenant: Occult rituals and mystical incantations may give you solutions to our current problems, yet you will never be able to implement those solutions without our help.

Enigmatic Stratagem: They meddle in our affairs at every turn! If we could find out the sources of control, we would deal out personal Righteous Fury on them!

Keepers of Secrets: Information is the future. If we do not stem the control of these Illuminati, our rightful place in the Pax Concordat could be usurped.

Pantheon: We are from a common past, though not common ideals. Religion is not a reliable means of control. Though they alone rival our power, we hold no grudges against them.

Shadow Bank: They are the cornerstone of all our power, even if they do not act upon it. Be warned bankers, if you attempt to use your sphere of influence for leverage, you will soon enter personal bankruptcy.

Keepers of Secrets

Nickname: Lurkers

The Keepers are perhaps the only Society actively helping enlighten mankind. Once lowly throngs, the Keepers of Secrets were a confederation of small societies from around the globe. They were keepers of libraries and caretakers of the centers of world knowledge. From the ancient library of Alexandria to the lands of the far east, the Keepers sought out the mundane secrets of the ages.

In the 15th century, as the Pax Concordat was being negotiated, the Throngs gathered together and formed the Keepers of Secrets. It was a defense measure against the encroaching Illuminati as well as move to enter the arena of the greater societies. Both moves were successful and the Keepers of Secrets became the second-last Society to sit on the Court.

Besides controlling libraries, universities, and other organizations devoted to knowledge; they also invested time and effort to influence communication technology. Over time, the Keepers gained considerable power in mundane society as contact over long distances became easier and less costly. The Keeper of Secrets encouraged all forms of telecommunication and free transmission of thought, from the pony express, telegraph and telephone, to the modem, Internet and the ever-expanding information super-highway. Currently, the Keepers are a rising power in the Illuminati. The Global Elite is trying desperately to stem the Keeper's power, trying to discourage free speech across the Internet and police the telecommunication networks. However, such policies are not as successful as the Elite would like, causing many to see a shift of power from the Global Elite to Keepers in the next few years.

The Keepers never use Hostile Takeovers and shy away from any direct approaches to problems. By utilizing their libraries, databases, and telecommunication taps, they have collected much damaging material on both the supernatural and mundane world. They use these "skeletons in the closet" to blackmail potential holdings or discourage any adversaries. They could easily destroy a person, business, or multinational if they so planned. Of any of the Illuminati, they have had the most success in stemming the Technocracy. Many Progenitor, Iteration X, and Syndicate business have had damaging information leaked when they investigated Illuminati affairs. The loss of reputation, company holdings, and billions of dollars have so far persuaded the Technocrats to abandon active inquiry of the Lurkers.

Goal: Every question has an answer, every person a hidden secret. The supernaturals are not an exception. All that is necessary is to find those secrets and use them to their best advantage.

Basilica: Somewhere near the ruins of the Library of Alexandria, Egypt.

Suspected Holdings: Information Gathering sources (TV/radio stations, newspapers, Internet sites, post offices, phone companies, government think-tanks, etc)

Preferred Backgrounds and Skills: Contacts and Allies are prized by the Lurkers, for a personal information network can augment the Keepers gathering sources. Additionally, Knowledge of all types (except for skills such as Occult) are helpful.

Stereotypes:

Blood Covenant: No mystical secret will cure our ills. The mundane information of this world will be the tool that controls the uncontrollable.

Enigmatic Stratagem: This Illuminati seem to have information beyond even our great scope. They deserve more investigation. We will learn what they know.

Global Elite: Brutal Pencil-pushers! The world under their control has done little to throw off yoke of supernatural oppression. Their reign is at an end.

Pantheon: They have long suppressed information, for they know its power. Ignorance and superstition are their tools, but only we know the light of truth. They never got out of the Dark Ages.

Shadow Bank: Money and Stocks? If only the others knew the truth. We know much more about you than you suspect. Watch your step, bankers, or your little secret might slip out.

The Pantheon

Nickname: Preachers

Splitting from the Global Elite during their schism, the Pantheon concentrated its control of the huge Imperial Priesthood of the Roman Pantheon. They infiltrated every temple with their influence, matching their sister Society, the Global Elite, holding for holding. As provinces were being added into the Empire, the Pantheon would attempt to convert them to the Roman gods or infiltrate their religious ranks.

When Emperor Constintine made Rome a Christian nation, the Pantheon quickly shifted its attention from propagating the Roman gods to the God of the Judeo-Christians. They were responsible for the transformation from the Christian church from the non-aggressive collection of believers to the expansionist, intolerant, megalithic Catholic Church that exists even to this day. The original goal of the Pantheon was to unite the world under one religion, that of Christianity. Though the Society soon became the most influential force in Europe, they had very limited success in other parts of the world.

The Crusades to take the Holy Land was the most ambitious of Pantheon plots. Its purpose, to begin to convert the world to Christianity and uniting it under the Pantheon-controlled Papacy. It had early success but in the end failed badly. They couldn't convert the Islamic nations to Christ, nor did they have any success with the invading Mongol hordes. They did, however, destroy the Celtic civilization and eventually convert the Vikings; harming the Blood Covenant greatly by doing so. The separation of the Eastern Orthodox church, the Protestant movement of Martin Luther, and the Age of Reason all harmed the Catholic Church greatly and devastated the Pantheon.

The Pantheon had supported the Age of Reason grudgingly, for they knew that by doing would only hurt the mages (specifically, their nemesis, the Celestial Chorus). The Chorus had always been a thorn in the side of the Pantheon, always interfering with their holdings. Several times the Chorus came very close to uncovering their Society. The Age of Reason permanently debilitated the Chorus control in the church and allowed the Pantheon to strengthen its grip on the populace.

Currently, the Pantheon still seeks a one world church, but it's not an immediate goal. Instead, it's infiltrated each of the Western and Near Eastern religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and some Televangelists. The Pantheon now seeks to unify each nation under a particular religion. When this is done, they will then attempt create political religious blocks (such as the an Islamic Federation in the Middle-East). From there, its believed the pantheon will attempt to create an World Ecumenical Council from which will spring forth a single World Religion.

However, Eastern religions such as Buddhism and Shintoism have given the Pantheon great agitation. Perhaps it's from the non-confrontation attitudes expressed by the Buddhist Priest. More likely, its from the Akashic Brotherhood, who is always vigilant of outside interference in its affairs. In the past they have attempted to convert them to other religions, with little success. Now, for the time being, the Pantheon has focused west, perhaps building up for an eventual religious Jihad.

Goal: A Supreme Being. Whether we believe in it is not important, for it's his power over the minds and hearts of the populace is all that's matter. Whether following God, Jehovah, Allah, or Buddha; they will all flock under our Earthly banner. Then, perhaps, we can wage Holy War on the Abominations that walk the Earth.

Basilica: Jerusalem. The Center of three of the world's great faiths: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.

Suspected Holdings: Religious men in most Western (and Near Eastern) religions, the Society of Leopold (?), the Knightly Orders (see the net supplement Church Knight).

Preferred Backgrounds and Skills: Besides Theology (Vampire Players Guide Pg.67), character's should appear to be upstanding and pious men in their respective communities. For the Pantheon, appearances are everything. Knights generally have True Faith as their Numina.

Stereotypes:

Blood Covenant: Magic is a tool for imbeciles. The masses need firm leadership, not obscure guidance. You are an aging dinosaur, soon to fall into extinction. Even the Neo-Pagans can't help you now.

Enigmatic Stratagem: Aliens have no place in our world. They undermine our great plan. Cease now or suffer our wrath.

Global Elite: Though they are more powerful than us, a time will come when we will outshine even them. They will then be our enforcers, loyal Crusaders in the impending holy war.

Keepers of Secrets: They know much, but are unwilling to share that knowledge. Nevertheless, they are a rapidly rising star. Care must be taken, lest they overpower us.

Shadow Bank: Money breeds greed. Greed diminishes faith. Faith is the root of our control. Yet, we have no quarrel with them. We will not harm them, unless the get in our way.

Shadow Bank

Nickname: Gnomes

Though the Global Elite, Keepers of Secrets, and the Pantheon dominate the world of the Illuminati, the Shadow Bank would appear to hold the strings. The masters of money, they have the power to cripple the other Illuminati's holdings with ease. However, they seemingly have no interest in attacking their fellow Society members. If anything, they are the most stalwart supporters of the Court. This in itself has eased the fears of the other Illuminati, but has made them wonder...

Though the Shadow Bank only began to rise to Society status during the Industrial Revolution, it existed as a Throng since the early middle ages. The first holding of the Bank was the Knights Templar, stealing them from under the nose of the Pantheon. Under their influence, the Knights became very rich and powerful. Its even rumored that the Knights found the Ark of the Covenant in Ethiopia, an artifact which the Shadow Bank is believed still to hold. Eventually, the Knights were destroyed, lost in a Hostile Takeover by the Pantheon. The fragments of the Templars not reeducated or killed by the Pantheon were saved by the Shadow Bank. They would later set the foundation for the sprawling Monetary Empire of modern day. Currently, they hold banks, stock markets, and fiscal agencies such as the IRS and Merril Lynch.

In recent years, it has been alluded to that the Shadow Bank and the Syndicate of the Technocracy may know of each other, perhaps even sharing relations and resources. Some have gone so far as saying that the Shadow Bank is the Syndicate, and that the two are following some unfathomable plan at present. With the recent rumours of the Architects (see Architects of Reason, below), some believe that the Lucidites remained in control of the Syndicate and have used that dominance to reinitialize links to their old Society friends. While this is not been proved, it has given the other Illuminati a lot to think about.

Goal: The Golden Rule: He who has the gold, makes the rules. Money does make the world go round, and its influence extends even into the supernatural world. Once we master currency, the world will soon bow before our might.

Basilica: Geneva, Switzerland

Suspected Holdings: Various banks, stock brokers, stock exchanges, and commodity exchanges.

Preferred Backgrounds and Skills: Finance and Resources are very important to both the Society and its followers. It's become a necessity (or at a very least a rite of passage) to get at least one dot in each. Knights who are part of the Shadow Bank have a mix of all Numina, but rely on their Financial Skills (all Shadow Bank Knights must have at least two dots in Finance) to fulfill their objectives.

Stereotypes:

Blood Covenant: They spent too much time using the tools of our enemies. Like the psychic hot-line idea, though...

Enigmatic Stratagem: Hmmm, they always seem to have enough money their ventures, yet we have no records of transactions. I wonder if they've filed a tax return...

Global Elite: The rich and powerful they may be, but we hold the purse strings.

Keepers of Secrets: Information is nothing. Records are only important in transactions and contracts. Their methods are useless.

Pantheon: Their idea of religion involves only two things: Control and money. They are very much like us, whether they believe it or not.

Architects of Reason (Defunct)

Nickname: Lucidites

It's not clear whether the Architects were a real Society, or a concoction of the Court to reinforce their dogma. Basilica documents do speak of another Society which existed before the Pax Concordat, but that society was never officially named. According to the official line, the Architects were a throng that wished to remove Supernatural influence once and for all. Thought to have begun in the late 12th century, it grew by recruiting members of the "mundane" Order of Hermes, especially those who were against the so-called Mythic age. However, instead of pawns, they were inducted as full members, filling the ranks of Knights, Pawns, and Rooks. It only took a few years, but the Architects power-base blossomed. They soon rose above the status of Throng, and caught the eye of most of the Great Illuminati.

Their own Conspiracy, based on reason over mysticism was beneficial to all the Societies in the World and greatly hampered the supernaturals. They rapidly rose in power, their influence growing until they were large enough that it was destined to join the ranks of the Greater Societies of the Illuminati. However, by the 15th Century, the Architects had all but disappeared. In its place, was the society of static mages known as the Technocracy.

The Court says that the Technocracy and the Architects are one and the same. The mages overcame the mundane Illuminati and took control of the Society, transforming it into the Technocracy. This party line has been used by the Court to strengthen their view that Supernaturals must always be dupes and pawns. To work with Supernaturals or allow them into the Pax Corcordat would be suicide.

While this is the official account of the fate of the Lucidites, there are other theories. Some say the Architects were not overthrown, but merely split up. The mages left to become the Technocracy, while the humans left for who-knows-where. Perhaps they were reabsorbed into the other Societies or formed their own. A radical theory states that the Enigmatic Stratagem are the remains of the Architects of Reason, still following their radical programs under a new guise. Some have even gone so far as to say that the Architects of Reason are still controlling the Technocracy, but in the shadows. Often those who theorize this also believe that the Syndicate has joined/subverted/merged with the Shadow Bank. They also state evidence that the Architects (or whatever they were really called) were seeded by the Shadow Bank (as a Throng) while it controlled the Knights Templar.

Is any of this true? One could say many things about the Architects, but there is little proof to back up their claims. Perhaps the Architects don't exist, or maybe they were just the Shadow Bank in a different aspect. Unless they can find the Lucidite's elusive Basilica, then the truth may never be known [Author's Note: This has been left vague intentionally. Storytellers are chose the origins and fate of the Architects.]

Goal: They are believed to share the views of the Technocracy. By creating static reality, you hamper the supernaturals ability to effect reality and humanity. It is much easier to kill a scorpion that has lost its sting.

Basilica: Unknown. If it exists, it could be a treasure trove of information. It is believed to exist somewhere in Europe, presumably in some areas with a long history of technical/scientific achievement.

Suspected Holdings: ????????????

Preferred Backgrounds and Skills: They no longer exist (if they ever existed...). Their preferred abilities and advantages are lost in myth and fable. Technical skills were probably important.

Stereotypes:

Their views are a complete mystery...

The Throngs

The Throngs are small up-and-coming Societies which are have not gained enough power to seek acceptance in the Court. However, the Court and members of the Illuminati force these smaller groups to abide by the Pax Concordat. Penalty for these Throngs ignoring the Concord of Peace is hostile dissolution of their assets.

Some Throngs ally with those Societies which closest match their ideologies, while others remain totally neutral. There are still others rumored to fight against the unknown power of the Illuminati and risk total destruction at the Society's hands. In any case, there is much resentment in the ranks of the Throngs. Many believe that the Illuminati fear their power and use the Pax Concordat to prevent them from reaching full Society status. This is not entirely true, for the Societies fear that the ambition of the Throngs might cause them to breech the long-standing veil of secrecy. Still, when Society and Throng elements meet, there is plenty of tension but rarely any violence.

This is the opportunity for the Storyteller to customize his particular campaign by adding his own secret organizations into the World of Darkness. These Throngs can be existing WoD organizations or you may make up your own devilish creations. There is no limit to the number of organizations available to you, only your imagination.

[Author's Note: There are plenty of Secret Societies in many RPG's that you could adapt/borrow/steal to use as Throngs. I especially suggest Nephilim for their secret societies and the Illuminati (GURPS, game, card game) from Steve Jackson Games] Here are a few societies (one of many ideas and information donated by Anders Sandberg) to give you ideas:

The Synarcy: Originally called the Bavarian Illuminati. They seek to destroy the current political structures and unite the world into a meritocratic one-world government. They supported socialism and fascism, but has lost a lot of power since its golden days. Right now they are close to the Global Elite and enemies of the Pantheon (who claims they are secretly working for or with the New World Order).

The Society of Light: A small society devoted to spiritual and technological growth of mankind, but also the removal of all secret control over mankind. They try to fight the societies, the Technocracy and everybody else. Not very strong, but irritating.

Special Equipment

Note: All equipment is not available to anyone but authorized Society personnel. Other characters will never get to buy these gadgets (and couldn't afford them if they could). The only exception is the Executioner, which could by custom made. However, the cost for the weapon, factoring in the costs of some of the more expensive and illegal components could be well over $20,000 (a conservative estimate).

992-717 Unit

Also called an Anomalous Paradigmal Perturbation Detector. This little device is of technocratic origin, and detects the stress on reality caused by magick. It can detect coincidental magick if it is done within a few meters of the unit, and vulgar magick several hundred meters away.

Corpse Choker (Blood Covenant)

A magic item used heavily by the Blood Covenant for special Pawns, the Corpse Choker appears like a regular gold chain wrapped tightly around the neck. This choker is sensitive to magics which directly affect the body or the necklace. Magics which include some Disciplines, Gifts, and Spheres. If such is used, the incantation on the necklace activates. It turns white hot and contracts to a tenth of its circumference. This instantly decapitates the user, killing a Vampire, Werewolf, or Mage. Unfortunately it's a one-shot device, rendered totally useless after "activation"

Collar Bomb

A non-magical version of the Corpse Choker for use on Mundane. Inside is a small amount of plastique, just enough to blow someone's head off (no Damage roll necessary. It goes off...you die. Vampires are decapitated and Werewolves are incapacitated and receive a battle scar). It combines an extremely difficult locking mechanism (DIFF 10 to open, detonates on a botch), with a radio-controlled detonator. A common Illuminati tool on temporary Pawns.

Executioner Assault Carbine (Global Elite)

Standard Issue Black Storm weapon, the Executioner is based off of a standard M16A2 Assault Rifle. It has integral Sound Suppressor and "brass catcher" (to collect spent shells). Also standard issue is an integral thermal imaging and laser scope, along with a 40mm grenade launcher under-barrel. A wide variety of 5.56mm ammo is available, including Incendiary (aggravated vs. Vampires) and silver (aggravated vs. Werewolves) bullets. Difficulty includes laser sight (usable only with Rifle; not with the GL).

Low-frequency Field Generators (Enigmatic Stratagem and Global Elite)

This type of devices sends out low-frequency electromagnetic waves, which interfere with the nervous systems of humans. The result can range from headaches and irritability to epileptic seizures and hallucinations, depending on signal strength and frequency. This makes the generators an excellent interrogation or brainwashing tool, or a discreet method of sabotaging enemy assets. By constantly making people nervous and somewhat ill at ease, they become more malleable for Illuminati influence. The units range from portable units disguised as cellular phones to huge underground installations. Some variants use directed antennas (the "Mind Control Lasers"), while other bathe whole areas in discomfort (often hidden as normal radio-antennas or linked to the wiring of a building).

"Loyalty Reminder" Pain Implant

A small electric generator is implanted in the skull, powered by a high density "watch battery". This is wired to the area of the brain which registers pain. Designed for long term control of Mundane by the Societies, activating this device sends shots of terrible pain throughout the body. The damage is one level of damage per round, healing at a rate equivalent to a Taser (see Vampire Players Guide). Often combined with the subdermal microphone to determine when "loyal reminding" is necessary.

Another more insidious variant is one which is attached to the pleasure center of the brain. Always on, the character gets used to the pleasure he feels. If he disobeys, the implant is turned off. Often, the character will not even consciously know why he now feels so rotten (except that he wants to get it back and will do anything to achieve that end). With a little "training" a person can be coaxed into preset responses (just like a lab rat, guinea pig, or hamster...

Palm Needler

A small single-shot weapon which can be hidden in a person's sleeve or hand. Powered by compressed CO2, it can fire a short range dart filled with drugs or poison (see Vampire Players Guide pg. 184 for examples or make up your own).

Spy Spider

A small metal spider (around 5 cm across), which is equipped with a radio link to a control unit. The user can steer the spider around, pick up small things with it or use its cameras to photograph objects. Some versions are used for assassinations, and have a poison injector.

Subdermal

A small listening device is implanted into the ear and throat of the victim, allowing the Society to hear everything that person says and listens to. A receiver then beams the information to a nearby recording device. The transmission range of the receiver is less than 1000m requiring a surveillance team to keep relatively close.

Tarot Master (Blood Covenant)

Using sympatric magic, the Blood Covenant can control the results of a tarot spread. The user spreads the master deck in a desired way, and then meditates on it, directing it towards another tarot deck. If somebody consults it while it is influenced, the result will be a similar tarot spread. Extremely useful to manipulate superstitious people.

Telephone Prefix Code (Keeper of Secrets)

An ultra-secure system for Keepers to call home base (the Basilica) or others without fear of discovery or interception. For some reason, after the prefix-code is entered, the phone call is diverted and encrypted several times. It cannot be listened into (except possibly near its source) or traced. Phone companies will have no record of the call, no matter how long the Keeper has on line. Of course, most people who use the call, make sure they are not been eavesdropped upon just to be sure...

Truth Drugs

Normal "truth drugs" are really not very effective, since the victim will usually be in a rather incoherent state. However, the Illuminati has access to the real, suppressed drugs. These drugs make the victim drowsy and fills him with feelings of friendship to everyone while numbing his sense for consequences and long-range-thinking abilities. While he still can try to hold back secrets, he is quite easy to trick.

[email protected] Internet Address (Keepers of Secrets)

(This is for those who want to know the REAL reason that the old Steve Jackson internet site closed down.)

This site is normally a disused site, generally overlooked by most Internet users. When a Keeper agent uses a special USER code (and the 6 other auxiliary codes after the first successful password), he is open to the main database of the Keeper of Secrets. Here, you can find out information on anyone important in the world. From their public records to their most private secrets, the Vault is a very powerful tool in the Keeper of Secrets arsenal. In game terms, this database gives the user remote access to everything in their Basilica. However, it's encoded in standard Knight lingua, requiring that skill to decipher.

World Express Bank Card (Shadow Bank)

For the Shadow Bank operative in the need of some ready cash, the W.E.B. card gives the user the equivalent of Resources 5. Just insert it into a instant-teller machine and punch in the code (normally, the code changes every six hours in case of theft). There is no limit on daily or weekly withdrawals. Or, more importantly, any incriminating records. The money taken will have shown to have been removed in small amounts from a dozen banks and credit unions, all under different names and PIN numbers.

Mundane Equipment

This Equipment is available in the open market, though getting such equipment may require large sums of money, good contacts, and a very generous Storyteller... The costs listed are its whole sale price to authorized buyers.

Cellular Interceptor

An interesting gadget, it locks onto a cellular phone call and allows the user to listen in on it. Additionally, it can read the phones "Cellular authorization codes" that it sends before a phone call to the phone company to permit the call to take place. This allows the person to "program" a cell phone with that code and gain free phone calls (or perhaps make phony calls in the victim's name!).

Cost: $600+

Broad-band Frequency Scanner

A hand held device designed to detect transmission sources, like signals used by bugs. When brought near a transmission source, the there is a audible howl caused by feedback. While this device is rather crude compared to other bug locators, it small, portable, and cheap.

Cost: $425

Fiver-optic Camera

A small camera with C-cell battery-sized recorder connected to a fiber-optic lens array. With a camera head small enough to hide in a button, this is a perfect device to "procure information" about a potential ally, Pawn, or victim. A small internal video-tape records only for ten minutes, but for its size its unbeatable. Optionally, it can be set to broadcast to a remote station, but that is more likely to be picked up.

Cost: $3200

Laser Microphone

Pistol-sized, the laser microphone sends a fine beam of light unto a window pane. Sound caused by talking, echoes throughout the room, causing minute vibrations in all surfaces they touch. A laser mike measures such "trembling" on the window and converts it into speech. An easy alternative to other listening devices which place agents in danger.

Cost: $2500+

Listening Devise ("The Bug")

Conventional listening device. The size varies with technology and cost, but all do generally the same thing. They transmit whatever sound they pick up to a nearby transmitter or other recording device. Common espionage tool for over forty years.

Cost: $565 (police quality with receiver)

Tracker

Similar in design to a listening device, the tracker is designed to send out a signal rather than pick one up. Along with a receiver, this allows the user to track a victim for up to 2 miles away. Again, technology, signal encryption, and range will vary with design, manufacturer, and price of unit.

Cost: $70 (with receiver)

Window Trembler

The only way to stop a laser microphone from picking up conversations. A thumb-sized vibration device is placed on the window, effectively masking all sound waves coming from inside the room. Each pane of glass will require a trembler to be 100% effective.

Cost: $35

Special Secondary Abilities

Brainwashing (Knowledge)

The skill of metal manipulation and control, it is the Societies most valuable skill. By using brainwashing techniques, the user can mould his victim to a particular ideology.

Skill use: User rolls Manipulation + Brainwashing (TN 10) vs. a Victims roll of Willpower (TN 6). Brainwashing difficulty can be reduced by one for each different technique used by the brainwasher. These include sleep deprivation, malnutrition, repetition of phrases, drugs, psychology, mechanical tools (low frequency generator), and physical abuse (the latter is not that effective against subjects).

The roll is made every day. If the Brainwasher's success exceed the victim's willpower roll, the victim looses 1 willpower point (2 if the user of the skill exceeds the victim by 3 or more successes). If the user botches, the victim actually gains back a point of willpower (can't exceed his original maximum). If the victim botches, he gains a derangement and loses double the number of willpower (up to 4 Willpower points!).

When the victim reaches 0 Willpower, the Brainwasher can then "mould" him/her at his whim. Their beliefs, religion, name, and background can all be altered, as well as their Nature and Demeanor. This is generally permanent, though intensive deprogramming (actually another minor type of Brainwashing) can bring them back. After brainwashing Willpower is regained at a rate one a week (up to his pre-brainwash maximum).

Fabula (Knowledge)

Restricted to Bishops, this skill is important for writing and reading Illuminati texts. The written word of the Societies, Fabula is an intricately designed language that has its origins millennia ago. It's base tongue is ancient Sanskrit, encrypted with a system that would make the CIA proud. The language, in itself, is difficult to decipher, but the Societies have also had the foresight of adding other features in their texts. Each paragraph has hidden code words in the initial sentence or two. This tells the rightful reader of the text, whether it's true, false, or texts that involve the "Great Secrets of the Illuminati". The false paragraphs are the most common and give misleading information about the Illuminati. The true paragraphs are wedged in between the pages of disinformation, often specifically written to appear false ("The illuminati ranking system is based on chess? Yeah, right. It says here on the fifteen paragraph that the Illuminati are really the Tremere information network. Chess indeed!").

Finally, the "Great Secrets of the Illuminati" is an alarm system built into all the Societies texts. It reveals great sources of treasure and terrible magic and weapons of destruction. They're all to be found in certain "highly secret locations" which the Text just happen to reveal. Exploiting the greed and lust for power that most people have, they lead enemy interlopers into dangerous traps ambushes. These serve to not only identify those who have stolen Society text, but to retrieve that text and eliminate the perpetrator.

Each Society has their own Fabula "dialect", though all stem from a common source (that of the original Fabula used by the ancient Blood Covenant society)

Specialization: Reading Texts, Writing Texts, Translating other Fabula dialects.

Lingua (Knowledge)

Like the skill Fabula, Lingua is the Knights' way of encrypting their conversations. Simpler than Fabula, this spoken tongue is also based on ancient Sanskrit. The language tends to be encrypted as well, but most often simple codeword and innuendos conceal important information. This is a tongue of communication and orders, not generally used to give away dangerous secrets (though, in the past, it has been done so.). As with Fabula, each Society has their own dialect of Lingua. Specializations: Orders, Explanations, Warnings, Small-Talk, Deciphering "foreign" Lingua.

Society Lore (Knowledge; optional)

The knowledge of a particular society, this skill should be restricted to the those of Knight or higher status. You know the origins, history, and goals of this Society, as well as some of its hierarchy.

Specializations: Origins, History, Hierarchy, Goals

* You know for sure that they exist (Knights)

** You have an idea about the Societies sphere of influence (Rooks only)

*** You know the Society Hierarchy (Bishops only)

**** Know the exact location of the Society's Basilica (Queen only)

***** Their very secrets are yours (Kings only)

Illuminati Lore (Knowledge; optional)

Generally reserved for the most trusted of the Illuminati, this is the knowledge that a person has of the Illuminati as a whole. This includes their number, influence, and their objectives. Generally, unless the Phantom Veneer has been broken, no one outside the higher echelons of the Illuminati should get this skill (Corvus Beltane, a Tremere, has Illuminati Lore 2, and Society Lore 2 [Blood Covenant]. He is an exception.)

Specializations: Societies, Influence, Objectives

* There are more than one Illuminati [Knights Only]

** You have learned several of the Societies Names

*** The Societies and their general goals are known [Bishops Only]

**** You have a good grasp on the makeup of the entire Pax Concordat, including the Conspiracy.

***** You Know as much as the Court [Queens/Kings only]

Chapter Four: Rules of the Trade

A Guide to the Society Web

The Societies must be very careful when dealing with the World of Darkness. There are many forces which, due to their fantastic powers, are more likely than mundane to find out about the Illuminati. Therefore, the Societies have developed several techniques to safeguard their secrecy.

Note: Take these suggestions as a general guideposts. Use, modify, or ignore them at your leisure.

The Web

To first understand the Society influence structure, you must understand the Web. The Society is like a spider, its trail of money and influence like its web. The Societies go from organization to organization, using influence and other means to convert them into their holdings. Each holding is a spring-board to acquire several other organizations. Those organizations would each take control of a couple of holdings, and so on. Covert and visible influence, compounded with false trails, shell corporations and legitimate revenue make tracing an Illuminati to its source a long, arduous process. That is, if they even have the Contacts and Resources to undertake such large-scale investigation.

At the center of the web is the prime holding of the Society, probably some multinational or other powerful organization. This organization has a few, easily-broken links connecting itself to the Basilica. If, by some means, the Society is tracked to that organization, the Basilica breaks the links and that organization takes the blame. Like the spider, the Illuminati control the web, but are not part of it. Storytellers should pick a Prime Holding that has some prior history of criminal or espionage activity. It should be easier for players (and their characters to blame the organization than a hidden conspiracy.

For example: Say your studious players track the Keepers of Secrets to its Prime Holding. Have that holding be something like the CIA or NSA. Who wouldn't suspect the CIA of being behind the infiltration? Who would suspect a human conspiracy behind it? If anything, the players will be blame the Vampires or the Technocracy (excellent scapegoats). Of course, the Keepers are more than happy to leave evidence to prove the character's hypothesis...

Shuffling

To operate effectively, the Societies need to support their troops with money. Orders can be given easily, but cash often presents a problem. The major weakness of the Web is that it has the potential of leaving a paper trail right to the Society's Prime Holding. To fight this, the Conspiracies practice "shuffling". That is, the use of small diverse holdings called Junctions to transfer the money between holdings. Junctions may cross the spheres of control that each other has set up. A Keeper of Secrets might use an insignificant Televangelist, something that you would think only the Pantheon would bother with, as a Junction. Since Junctions generally have no major influence in the world, they are not considered valuable property and are basically fair game. There may be as many as a half-dozen Junctions, or more between Holdings. As the money flows through the Junction it is lost in a maze of transactions which make a paper trail literally a nightmare to follow. Though wasteful money-wise (each Junction takes a small cut to keep going), it further prevents the likelihood of curious individuals for following the trail of money right to its source.

How to Betray Friends and Influence People (The Storyteller's Guide to Acquisitions)

Acquisition

Though this has come to mean any takeover of an organization, its original meaning was the appropriation of an unheld organization or one held by those not of the Illuminati (mainly the Supernaturals). Because the risks or discovery are greater than normal, all Acquisitions must by handled as a Challenge of Dominion (see below). Though Hostile Acquisitions (Takeovers) have been done, the Court rarely lets the perpetrators go unpunished.

The Challenge of Dominion

The Challenge is the official name for the taking over of another's Society's Holding. Unlike what it may infer, there is no official declaration of the Society's intent. What it does mean is that the Challenge is a test of the cunning and power between the two Illuminati. However, there are some strict rules of conduct in a standard Challenge. These are outlined in the Pax Concordat section of Chapter Two: No Violence is allowed and when one Society conclusively controls the decision making of the Holding (say by controlling the majority of stocks or brainwashing the President), then the Society takes control of that property.

Non-Violent means that only persuasive methods may be used. The most common avenues is Brainwashing, Blackmail (a good short term measure), or subversion (say by taking over the Vice-President and then orchestrating his rise to the Presidency). After the Challenge has been one, the Rook assigned to that Holding then goes to work. He then brainwashes key personnel to make sure most of the leadership's support is also loyal to the society. These support people are often the first "casualties" of any takeover attempt (often literally if a Hostile Takeover is initiated).

Challenges of Dominions can be a great source of roleplaying potential for Illuminati Players. Knights and Pawns would have to actually think and role-play instead of shoot, maim and kill. A well-thought out plan of action, along with some quick-thinking (and blind luck) will be required to outsmart the enemy Clique.

Hostile Takeovers

When a Challenge of Dominion gets violent, then it's called a Hostile Takeover. Gangland-style executions and daring raids that would make Sly Stallone proud are common elements in these takeover attempts. While this sort of acquisition may satisfy the "Brujah-style" players in your group, it is very unwise to allow this sort of action continue without consequences. Though one such action by a Clique/Cadre doesn't concern the Court, multiple instances will only tempt their wrath. Warnings are rare with the Court, and giving one to the players should be conveyed with as much venom and anger as possible. The next violation will surely get one of the players killed...as an example. Don't be afraid to terminate a Knight or Pawn because of his actions. Your player's should actually fear the Court, as much or more than a Vampire would fear a Prince or Justicar. The Court is the Society's law. Not only will he enforce the boundaries of your campaign but when they have to go against the Court, it will make the adventure all the more terrifying, exciting and satisfying ("We cheated the almighty Court! Yes!!!!!!").

Phantom Veneer

(And How To Repair The Damage When They Break It) As I have stressed throughout this supplement, secrecy is the only advantage the Illuminati have. All Supernaturals have some information on each other. The Vampires know about the Lupines, Mages, Wraiths, etc. However, no one knows about the Societies, at least nothing that counts has hard fact. Anxious Illuminati Players, with their zealous dreams of world domination are sometime prone to do open and spectacular things. Open warfare, assassinations, and heavy-handed tactics might well suit a Werewolf campaign, but are extremely dangerous in Illuminati: The Conspiracy. Yes, some groups do use Hostile Takeovers more than not (the Global Elite is notorious for this), even they pick and choose targets are pre-disposed to violence. For example: The city's largest elicit drug manufacture center was wiped out by a Black Storm brigade. The police believe it was the work of a rival drug manufacturer, due to evidence "found" on the scene. Every Storyteller who runs an Illuminati campaign will one day have to repair the damage from the players. Here are a few suggestions:

The Scapegoat

Blame someone else; someone believable. In the mundane world, it's best to blame those who are already suspected of meddling in society. The CIA, FBI, and NSA are perfect American examples of potential scapegoats (In Canada, CSIS has bungled so many covert operations, they'd be perfect targets). Among the Supernaturals, place the onus on natural enemies or those under suspicion. If the operation was against the Werewolves, blame Pentex, DNA, Vampires, or the Shadow Lords. When against the Vampires it's best to leave evidence accusing the Lupines, the Sabbat, or the Tremere. The Technocracy-Tradition feud is perfect cover for Illuminati activities as well. Note that the arrogance of the Supernaturals toward the mundane predisposes them to blame the nearest paranormal source for the trouble. Except for the Arcanum, most Supernaturals to not consider normal humans that great a threat.

Disinformation

p> So they're sure its some sort of secret society. Fine. Give them a secret society, but make sure it has nothing to do with the real Illuminati. The Enigmatic Stratagem have this down to a science. Everyone is convinced that the American government is in league with Aliens and that they are using alien technology. With the Stratagem's strange equipment and the presence of the "Greys" have done much to perpetuate this falsehood (as has the activities of the Technocrats and certain Umbral beings). While everyone is concerned with the "Alien Conspiracy" no one suspects mundane humans plotting the overthrow of mankind. It's also noteworthy that there so many skeptics about Alien involvement, that most people are convinced there is no Conspiracy at all.

The main purpose of Disinformation is to mix as much falsehood in with the facts to lead any researchers on a wild goose chase. The more convinced they are in the fabrication, the more embarrassed they will be when they are proven wrong. This tends to lower the credibility of the researchers (very important if they eventually find out something about the True Illuminati). Think about it. Just look at how Steve Jackson games are selling lots of things named Illuminati, and how the concept of Illuminati have spread far and wide thanks to R.A.Wilson... the real Illuminati are hard to find among the wannabees and enthusiasts.

Discouragement

A favorite of the all the Illuminati, the main goal of Discouragement is to make the investigation more trouble than it's worth. Corporations who involve themselves in Illuminati affairs see their stocks fluctuate wildly or become the objects of government investigations. At first the "problems" are just bad enough to serve as warnings. If things persists, however, they can become crippling. While this method has the potential of encouraging investigation, often the individual organization's instinct for self-preservation will convince them otherwise. Discouragement tactics range depending on the Society. Global Elite rely on "physical" means (beatings, bombings, and assassinations; often disguised as terrorist acts) or political pressure, Shadow Bank using monetary means, the Pantheon resorting to slander campaigns from the pulpit (Interesting Plot Hook: Exactly why is the Pantheon so anti-RPG? Maybe the Blood Covenant is behind TSR?), and the Blood Covenant involved in curses and other mystical incantations.

Counter conspiracies

"The best way to avoid a conspiracy is to start it yourself". So the Illuminati creates groups apparently opposing them, to lure in anybody trying to find them or their holdings. The Enigmatic Stratagem probably manipulates the UFOlogists trying to make the government release secret documents, and the Blood Covenant runs debunkers and skeptic organizations which are used to strike at their competitors in the occult world. Additionally, the Global Elite probably controls anarchists. For every attack on a holding owned by their Society, there are a half dozen levied on Enemies (both in the mundane and Supernatural world).

Societies within Societies (The Creeds)

So, you thought the Societies were a homogenous mix of infiltrators, blackmailers, and spies? Wrong. The Conspiracy and its three main tenants (Control the World, Fight the Supernatural, Enlighten Humanity) have sparked much debate among the higher echelons of the Illuminati. What's the most important tenant? What should the Societies' main purpose be? There are many who choose one of the three tenants as their life's goal (their "Creed") while still others have developed their own ideas about the Conspiracy and the direction the Illuminati must follow.

Creeds go beyond Society limitations. In many ways, it's the only thing the Illuminati have in common. Though Societies may fight their own petty battles, many times their Creeds still have relations (though strained they may be).

The Collusionists

"Conspiracy for Conspiracy's sake".

These people have told so many lies, weaved so many intricate plots, that they have become mentally and emotionally dependant on the Conspiracy. The are deathly afraid that if the machinations ever ended, that their life would be shallow and worthless. The Collusionists have no other goals but to keep the lie alive; to do nothing but forge endless (and often meaningless) plots and schemes. Followers of the status-quo, they actively fight any attempt by a Society or Creed to hinder or abet the Conspiracy (because it could eventually cause its end). They are a small faction, but present in all Societies, most notably the Global Elite (and some say the Enigmatic Stratagem).

The Enlightened

"The Conspiracy is not to enslave, but inform".

This Creed seeks a return to the origins of the Illuminati, when the role of the Societies was to educate and assist humans throughout the world. Though they have no love for the Supernaturals, they see no reason to wipe them out. Likewise, world domination is a trivial and useless endeavor. Only by enlightening mankind to the possibilities the world has to offer, can freedom from all forms of oppression be guaranteed. Many of the Enlightened have adopted Ascension-like beliefs, making many wonder if those of this creed are not being influenced by Harmonist elements. They are very common in the Blood Covenant and are the most common Creed-members in the Keepers of Secrets. Also suspected of having members in the Enigmatic Stratagem, though they may have been distorted by the Aliens' twisted philosophies (whatever they may be).

The Harmonists

"The Conspiracy is for everyone, both mundane and supernatural".

A throw-back to the Architects of Reason, the Harmonists believe that the Supernaturals should not be enslaved, imprisoned, or destroyed. Instead, they should be part of the Illuminati; using their powers to the benefit of humanity rather than its exploitation. A very small and silent Creed, the Illuminati regard Harmonists with the same hatred and fear that the Sabbat have for the Path of Evil Revelations. Harmonists must remain secretive, lest they be hunted down and eradicated. Nonetheless, there is believed to be quite a few Harmonists in the Enigmatic Stratagem and the Shadow Bank.

The Ideologists

"Only our Conspiracy is the true Conspiracy"

Loyalty to one's Society is the most important to members of this Creed. Only the Society has the correct path to victory of the supernatural. Only they are worthy of becoming Illuminati. The other Societies are only pretenders to their throne, anti-popes to their divine right of leadership. In short, all other Illuminati are inferior and should bow their will. These groups clash on a regular basis with the Court, and despise their rule. They appear in sizable numbers in most of the Conspiracies.

The Nihilists

"The Battle is lost. Humanity is doomed"

Gloomy, depressed, and perhaps unbalanced, these society members are convinced that the war with the supernatural has been lost before it started. The only recourse is to go out with a bang, taking as many as the abominations with them as they can. There are stories of Nihilists going into Vampire clubs with a backpack full of thermite or napalm, destroying dozens of vampires in the process. Most of these have been dismissed by Vampires as suicidal Hunters, but the Illuminati is deathly afraid of the publicity these actions cause. Because of this, this society has been officially banned by the Court. In many ways, the hatred of the Nihilists equal the Camarilla's hatred for the Sabbat, or the Sabbat's hatred of the Path of Evil Revelations. However, these believers still exist in small numbers; more rise up everyday, despite the many who die.

The Overseers

"There is only one path for Humanity. The path that we, the Illuminati, forge."

This is, by far the largest Creed, not only in power but in influence. The Kings have actively supported the Overseers in their Societies, for it has given them an excuse to grab power wherever they find it. The main goal of the creed is simply the complete domination of mankind. Once they have the mundane in check, they can use its great resources to curb the Supernaturals. Many within the Creed believe that what they are doing is for the benefit of mankind, but there are just as many greedy cutthroats who do it for the personal influence it gives. The Court has long tried to inhibit the Overseers, but it hasn't the will (or the power) to ban such a large group of individuals (especially since some Queens have fallen under their control). As stated above, the Creed exists in all Societies; the Global Elite is securely under their control.

The Paranoids

"There is only one way... inwards"

This creed (which is related to the Collusionists) is unofficial but quite prevalent in many societies. The paranoids have seen too many friends turn out to be traitors, heard too many awful secrets and know far too much. They cannot leave, they cannot relax and the only way to survive is to fit in while trying to understand what is really going on. They hide their fears under a veneer of loyalty, and often do their outmost to serve the Conspiracy while constantly watching for trouble. Most of them simply try to avoid it, always keeping to the safe side or hiding behind the party-line.

The Purifiers

"What you call genocide, I call a day's work."

While other Creeds only condone the hindrance of the supernatural, the Purifiers believe in their total destruction. The exact reasons for their hatred is varied; xenophobia, a religious hatred of "evil," human supremacy and purity of the race (of any race or gender). Supernaturals are seen as unnatural and polluted strains of humanity; many feel they its their duty of eliminate aberrations for the good of Homo Sapiens everywhere. The Purifiers dream is to set up Auschwitz-style extermination camps where Vampires, Werewolves, Mages, etc. would be exterminated. While no one will admit to being a Purifier (most masquerade as other Creeds), their presence is felt throughout the Illuminati.

The Scholars

"Knowledge is Power."

This creed is common among some Bishops, who have spent all their time studying in the libraries of their Basilicas. They no longer care for the eventual defeat of the supernatural or the eventual fate of humanity. Instead they have become obsessed with the vast amounts of knowledge their society has gathered, and want to get more, to use the Conspiracy to learn all secrets (this creed is quite common among the Keepers of Secrets). They do their best to gather as much information as possible about the supernatural, their enemies or the world in general. They are not very powerful, but very tenacious when they want to learn something.

The Supplanters

"To control the beast, you must remove its claws, pull its teeth, pluck out its eyes, and cut out its ears. After that it's rather harmless".

The Supplanters are the second-largest Creed, just behind the Overseers in overall support. They have the direct backing of the Court (who seek to control the Overseers and Purifiers advocacy and growth). The Supplanters see only the curbing of influence the Supernaturals as a worthwhile goal. Those such as Vampires require pawns to safeguard their existence and control mankind. By removing those pawns, ideally without them knowing, the Illuminati take control of what the supernatural sees and hears. As the Supernaturals have become dependant on their holdings and mortal pawns, so they have given the Illuminati a potent tool in which to misdirect or even destroy them. Ironically, if knowledge of the Illuminati were to become widespread, their dependence on holdings would be their demise. Though they haven't dominance in any society, their presence has at least restrained the influence of the Overseers in most of the societies (excluding the Global Elite, which is firmly under Overseer control).

The Unionists

"There are no Societies. There is only the Conspiracy."

Seeing themselves as visionaries, the Unionists yearn for a day when the Societies can put aside their differences and join as a single unit. Only then, they reason, can the Conspiracy be brought to fruition. They have sought to build relations between friendly Illuminati (such as the Global Elite and the Pantheon), as well as bring peace to feuding Societies (Pantheon and the Blood Covenant). Receiving nominal support from the Court, the Unionists have managed to be a thorn in the side of the other Creeds. They are powerful enough to resist absorption from the other creeds, not threatening enough to risk a ban, and have enough support to cause many to wonder whether separate societies are a good idea. They exist in all Societies (save, perhaps, the Enigmatic Stratagem; they seem to want to keep as far away from the other Societies as possible).

Chapter Five: The World of Darkness

The following is a brief guide on the relationship between the Illuminati and the other denizens of the World of Darkness. Note that these relationships are based my personal concept of the Illuminati and WoD in general. You should feel free to alter or scrap any or all of this information if it doesn't fit with your campaign.

Vampire: The Masquerade

The Camarilla

"The Illuminati and the Tremere are one and the same. It is an obvious ploy to divert the blame incurred by their scheming actions. This mythical group does not exist. " -Victor, Ventrue ex-prince of Peterborough, Ontario.

The Vampires suffer from the elitist philosophy which tends to relegate mortals to the roles of food and petty annoyances. Except for the Arcanum and some Hunters, the Camaralla doesn't see humans as a serious threat. Of all the Kindred, the Tremere have been the most victimized by the Societies. Whether by design or just chance, the Tremere have named their information network "The Illuminati" (See the Vampire Players Guide). This offered the True Illuminati an opportunity to pass of some of the blame to the Tremere. While the Tremere are not innocent by any means, they've been blamed for many conspiracies that they have had no part in.

The Elder Vampires of the Camarilla are not likely to have any idea about the Illuminati. The Societies have labored hard to taint any truths they may hold with fraudulent information. Still, its more than likely that there are some Elder Vampires (Especially Methululahs and those of low Generation) would know something about the Illuminati.

The Sabbat (and the False Hand)

"While I have never heard of them, I have noticed strange things in the city. This requires more investigation" -Piper, Nosferatu Bishop of Peterborough, Ontario

Sabbat cities offer the opportunity for the Illuminati to take control of mundane institutions. Because the Sabbat sever all ties to the mortals, there is often a control vacuum in the city. While the Lupines, Mages, and Technocracy have tried to fill this void; the Illuminati usually find the most success (generally due to its ability to "blend" in with the rest of humanity). The Sabbat generally don't have the contacts with the mundane to have any chance of discovering the presence of the Illuminati (and the Illuminati generally doesn't tackle with them directly, preferring to use some militant holdings to deal with them). The Societies feel that the Sabbat are the worst threat the Vampires pose to Humanity and that they should be eliminated at all costs. Even the normally passive Harmonist Creed have no love for the Sabbat.

Note that since both the Sabbat and the Illuminati use the term "Bishop" as status rank, the Societies members can be confused with the Sabbat in case of a breech. This of course, only benefits the Illuminati.

The True Hand

"Illuminati? No Comment." -, Member of the True Hand

The relationship between the True Hand and the Illuminati is a reverse to the normal link between the Societies and the Supernatural. Of the True Hand, the Illuminati know almost nothing. They know they exist, but know little more than they are the "Secret Masters" of Venture fame. However, it's very likely that the True Hand knows much about the Illuminati and its purposes. While both the Hand and the Illuminati both are protecting mankind, the Societies do so at the expense of the Supernaturals. The Pacifier Creed has the Hand especially nervous, for they advocate the genocide of those of Supernatural origin. But to actually crush the Illuminati would by very hard and damaging to the Hand. For one thing, the Illuminati (in one form or another) vastly predates the True Hand. As such, they have a lot more experience in fighting phantom wars. To actually crush the Societies, while possible, would greatly tax the Hand's resources and undoubtedly reveal their existence for all the world to see. So, the True Hand wait in secret, erecting invisible walls to hem in the growth of the Illuminati. They hope these barriers will be enough, for they dread the day the will have to deal the Societies of the Pax Concordat.

[Author Note: Depending on your own campaign, the True Hand could be a complete mystery to the Societies, or both will have complete knowledge of each other (and fight an invisible cold war). You may also have the True Hand influence or even control the Illuminati, but I personally discourage that (especially the control part). That would make the Illuminati redundant; we already have enough supernatural conspiracies.]

The Shamans of Beltane

"Fantasy is the truth no one wants to hear." -Corvus Beltane, 8th Generation Tremere.

Jacques DeCarnac is believed to be the only Bishop to have successfully rebelled from the Illuminati. A member of the Blood Covenant, he managed to smuggle one of the Basilica's texts to a certain Tremere called Corvus Beltane (obviously a pseudonym; real name unknown). Corvus, a former Verbena embraced by a jealous Tremere, had promised Carnac the very secrets of Vampire Thaumaturgy. However, the traitor was killed by the Court's Cadre before he could collect. From that day in 1634, Corvus spent his waking hours in hiding, attempting to crack Fabula's multi-level encryption sequences. When Corvus cracked the codes, he thought he had discovered the source of much of the Tremere's bad image; a human organization that has pull the strings of many occult organizations. However, the false paragraphs in the book led him to many erroneous conclusions. For instance, he believes the Blood Covenant to be much more powerful than it really is, controlling the other thirty Societies with an iron fist. He also falsely affirms that the Blood Covenant is behind the Path of Evil Revelations and the Sabbat. Beltane was quick to tell the others in the Camarilla about his findings but mistrust for the Tremere (and a healthy dose of Illuminati Disinformation and Scapegoating) convinced all concerned it was nothing but an ill-conceived scheme to redeem his clan. Especially since no one but Beltane could understand the book's contents.

Beltane would later lose his evidence while using the book to find "the Mystical secrets of the Blood Covenant". A Clique, hiding in wait at this chosen site, attacked the Warlock and forced him to flee in panic. Unfortunately, he dropped the book in the early moments of the attack and lost his only evidence of the Illuminati. Beltane has since gone underground with his information, along with a few Tremere and Ventrue. Corvus has now devoted his new life to routing out the Illuminati and destroying it. Calling themselves the "Shamans of Beltane" they spent some time in Peterborough, Ontario; once the last bastion of Camarilla rule in Central Ontario. Staying there until the Sabbat takeover, the group went on to Ottawa and then moved into an undisclosed location in the states. The current whereabouts of the Shamans of Beltane are unknown, but the Illuminati are dying to have a talk with them...

[Author: Peterborough is near my home-town of Havelock and the location of our Vampire LARP. I actually played Corvus, who was an 8th Generation Tremere. Also played Piper, the 9th Gen. Nosferatu who would eventually cause the city's fall to the Sabbat...hehehe]

Werewolf: The Apocalypse

The Tribes of Garou (including all were-creatures)

"Mortals are slaves to superior powers, whether it be us or the Vampire pawns of the Wyrm. To suggest they are capable of this level of manipulation is laughable." -Krieg Iron-Hand, Shadow Lord

The Werewolves and other Were-creatures are the hated enemy of the Illuminati. It was the Garou Impergium which sparked the Growth of the Blood Covenant and indirectly the other Societies. However, while their hate of the Garou is strong, the Illuminati has done very little harm them. That occurs because the agents of the Wrym have done such a good job of depleting the Werewolves numbers that they haven't nearly been the threat to humanity they once were. Still, those Garou like the Glass Walkers and the Shadow Lords have made forays into the cities to make pawns of mankind. It is then when the Illuminati have cracked down upon them. The Garou rarely have the resources in the human world to even hint at the presence of the Illuminati. The Glass Walkers may have their suspicions, but generally the Garou are the least informed about the Illuminati. Not due to any deficiency in skill or power; more likely due to their single-minded battle against the Wyrm and its servants.

The Wyrm (including Pentex)

"Yes, we have had contact with a few of them, more of which I will not say. Draw your own conclusions if you wish. You know the way out." -Unnamed Pentex Board Member.

Wyrm minions and those of the great multinational corporation Pentex have clashed with the Illuminati on occasion. However, due to the great power the Wyrm has on the planet, the Societies have had only partial success in stemming their domination of humanity. With the legions of Fomori and other creatures at Pentex's disposal, any Acquisition generally leads into a hostile takeover (something the Courts want to use sparingly). As such, the Illuminati pick and choose their targets carefully, making sure they have some scapegoats that their enemy will actually believe in (generally the Garou). Pentex and the Wrym-agents do know of the Illuminati's existence and may (depending on your campaign) have subverted the Blood Covenant. Otherwise, they don't see the Societies of much of a threat. This is not a foolish attitude because its quite possible that Pentex could easily overcome any Society's attempt at subversion and control. Whether they could match the Illuminati in a head-on battle is unknown, but it is a possibility.

Mage: The Ascension

Traditions

"Oh yes, I've heard all sorts of stories about conspiracies, alien viruses from deep space, honest politicians. Won't believe it, though, 'till I see it." -Platon, Virtual Adept.

As stated in the introduction, the Illuminati have very little hatred for the Mages of the world. They fear the Mages for their ability to warp reality and for the strange insanity and occurrences (Quiet and Paradox Flaws) which happen around them. This, along with the practice of recruiting Acolytes had convinced the Illuminati that it's in humanity's best interest to subvert the Mages as well. Ascension, in all its forms, is an alien concept to most members of the Pax Concordat. Most believe if anyone has the right to enlighten mankind, its going to be the Illuminati and other mundane.

As with the Werewolves, the Societies will not bother with Mages unless the involve themselves in activities that will control or harm mundane.

The Technocracy

"The whole concept is fascinating but pointless. If sleepers were capable of such things, the Technocracy would never have been needed. As you see, we are still here. We are still needed." -Dr. Francis Cavalier, Iteration X

Years ago, the Illuminati voted to allow the Technocracy freedom to create the Age of Reason. It is generally believed that this was done to further subvert the Supernaturals (specifically Mages and other Umbral beings) as well as provide more weapons to use against their enemies. However, now it's generally seen as a catastrophic mistake. The Technocracy now rivals the Illuminati is total size and has a stranglehold on the minds of the entire world. If the Illuminati could unite, they may be able to wipe them out. However, with all the infighting (and the questionable loyalties of the Shadow Bank and the Enigmatic Stratagem), its unlikely they would have the strength to accomplish this goal.

The New World Order has long suspected a shadow government paralleling their's. The Enigmatic Stratagem (along with the Cadres of the Court) have been very efficient in hiding their existence, but the NWO probing continues. However, the NWO has no idea that the Illuminati exist (at least not that they are not Supernatural-controlled) and can be easily convinced that the Vampires, and especially the Traditions (like the Virtual Adepts) are involved. While it's only a matter of time until the Technos find out about the Societies, there have been rumours that someone is preventing the NWO from discovering the Illuminati. This supposition has been forwarded by the same people that believe the Shadow Bank and Syndicate are one in the same. However, it is possible that some remnant of the Architects of Reason could be subtly manipulating the NWO (as well as the rest of the Technocracy) away from the Illuminati. This makes many wonder how true these rumours really are.

The Nephandi and the Marauders

"So, you want to know about the Illuminati... Are you willing to pay...the price?" -Redden Malthus, Nephandi

These fugitives from beyond the Gauntlet may or may not know about the Illuminati. Even if these two powers learned of its existence, it will not easily share this information. Not many people believe the ranting of the Marauders and the Nephandi would tend to exact a...heavy price for such information. As for the Illuminati, they consider both these Mages more threatening to the welfare of humanity than the Technocracy. It partially vindicates their decision to let the Technocracy set up the Age of Reason (though still considered a grave mistake on many more grounds). The Illuminati will terminate any Marauder on sight and will consider the same fate for any Nephandi.

Wraith: The Oblivion

Wraiths

"I care not for the Quick. We are the dead and we have a more important problems that require our attention." -Elias, Hierarchy Centurion

Since Wraiths generally do not involve themselves in the lands of the Quick (except to protect their fetters and nurture their Passions), they are not a threat to the Illuminati. In fact, some within the Blood Covenant have good relationships with these denizens of the Shadowlands. Obviously, unless the Wraith has spend much time in the real world, they are not going to know about the Illuminati. So generally both sides leave each other alone.

Of course, its been said that there are a lot of former Society members in the Shadowlands as Wraiths. Some say these Wraiths even formed their own Society called "The Silhouette". Again, whether The Silhouette exists and its relationship with the other Illuminati is up to the Storyteller.

The Other Beings

Mummies

"Don't take the Illuminati so lightly. Mortals are capable of much more than we could ever dream of; I know for a fact that all those who call themselves Illuminati are not all Tremere." -Amonhotep, Mummy

Mummies, the undying remnants of the Egyptian way of life, know well the existence of the Illuminati. They may have well been part of the early Blood Covenant before the battle between Set and Osiris forced them to be part of the Spell of Life. For the most part, Mummies are more concerned with the eternal cycle of their lives and joining Horus' battle with the Followers of Set, to be worried about the Illuminati and humans in general. There is one mummy who has been "inducted" into the Illuminati (The Blood Covenant, of course), but it's unknown whether he did so of free will and whether they Society can control him throughout his many lifetimes. It is clear that though they may have been part of the Societies at one time, Mummies are now considered no better than the rest of the Supernaturals: Pawns and potential enemies.

The Illuminati cares very little about the Mummies. They have done very little harm to humanity and have not sought to dominate them. Even if they did impose their will on a number of humans, it is impossible to kill a Mummy permanently. So the Societies tend only to control/subvert these types of Mummies while they're in the land of the living. This includes the evil Bane Mummies of the Vampire Set.

Immortals (Highlander: The Quickening Net Supplement)

"There can be only one? I wonder what will happen when the last Immortal gets The Prize and finds out what's really going on in the world. The suspense is killing me!" -Nicholas "The Razor" Caliburn, Immortal

Immortals, like Mummies, may know about the Illuminati. It depends on how old the Immortal is and where they lived. Luckily, the Immortals are often more concerned with "The Game" and winning "The Prize" to be worried about mortal secret societies. However, there are those Immortals who have carved their own Empires on the backs of mundane and have sought out groups like the Societies. It's these Immortals that mostly concern the Illuminati.

The Illuminati have take great pains to make sure that the Immortals do not discover their existence. The Watchers, the organization that conducts surveillance on Immortals, could be such a defense measure the Societies (most likely the Keepers of Secrets) have erected. The Hunters would be a suitable assassination tool for those Immortals who did get too close. Again, this is up to Storyteller approval (but it explains a great many things).

Epilogue: A Parting Word

"This game is not real...you are" -introduction from Nephilim: RPG

Since you are reading this (and assuming you're not one of those people who reads the last page of Mystery novels) I guess you've at least skimmed through my work. For this I'm very grateful. Its been a few months since I started this supplement and I'm more than happy with the result. It's not the typical Secret Society dissertation I had originally had planned, but I feel that it has blossomed into something more original. I hope you like what you've read, or at least have something that you can use.

Again, I'd like the thank Anders Sandberg for all his ideas and information, Carl Gutbrod for his support, and all the members of wod-l for their suggestions and ideas that have floated about since its inception.

Suggested Material

The following are excellent sources of Illuminati and Secret Society information in general.

X-Files (Fox TV-Show) Excellent example of the Enigmatic Stratagem at work

Mission: Impossible (Both Syndicated TV-Shows) Excellent guide to Cadre/Clique operations

Nephilim: Occult Roleplaying (Chaosium) Has great secret societies (perfect for Throngs)

Call of Cthulhu (Chaosium) Great source of secret cults and things "man was never meant to know".

Illuminati Card Game/GURPS Supplement (S. Jackson Games) Original motivation for this supplement, this was my first foray into the world of the secret societies.

GURPS Voodoo: The Shadow War (Steve Jackson Games) More nifty secret societies (on the supernatural side) as well as a fascinating GothPunk-style setting.

GURPS Cthulhupunk (Steve Jackson Games) -Cyberpunk meets Cthulhu. 'Nuff said.

In the Country of the Blind (Michael Flynn). Very relevant to this game! It is about conspiracies using mathematical models to predict the probable future; the conspiracies wage a shadow war against each other, both trying to hide and trying to wipe each other out. Has several neat descriptions of a Basilica, Pawns, Rooks, Knights, Bishops and a Queen.

Focault's Pendulum (Umberto Eco). Lots of material about conspiracies, especially the Templars.

Society Net.post (Mark Carlson, found in ftp.iquest.com in /pub/RPG/Misc) Though low on facts, this gives you great ideas on the structures of fictional secret societies and the sub-societies below them. Scary thing is, his ranking system for agents is very close to mine (and I down-loaded it two months after deciding on the Ranks in this supplement...). Based on Call of Cthulhu and Comic sources, as well as real conspiracies.

This work probably has infringed on many registered trademarks and copyrights. I am neither making money of this supplement, nor am I challenging any of the copyrights/trademarks involved. This supplement may be reproduced freely as long as no profit is made of this supplement and my name is listed as its author.

Part 2: Who and What is the Illuminati?

Q: Does it bother you to write about this?

A: It doesn't upset me to write on the topic of the Illuminati, I was explaining why I write under a pen name, that is all. I received a letter recently in which it was alleged that I write under a pen name because I'm a phony, which is not true at all. I am a freelance writer on the side (I write for nursing magazines and publications on health topics that have NOTHING to do with abuse) and understand the need for fact checking, so no offense is taken at your wanting to know my background. In fact, it shows you are a responsible editor, which I admire. I have nothing to hide. My story is 100% true.

I have gained no money for disclosing; I do NOT go on talk shows, I am unknown and prefer it this way. I have absolutely no secondary gain from doing this, other than the medical bills for my children, which means I work three part-time jobs. This is to answer the skeptics who say that people disclose for: sympathy (I don't want any and don't need it. I made choices and mistakes in my life, and am now involved in restitution); money (I earn $20 a MONTH for my site on Suite 101. I earn $150 to $250 an article when I write on Women's health. Guess which topic I write on more frequently? Yep. Women's health, on completely non-abuse issues. The editors of the Nursing magazines and women's magazines don't know about the other topic I write on, another reason I write under a pen name.) I don't write for fame. Instead, if my co-workers knew about my past, I risk losing my job. I have everything to lose by disclosing, everything to gain by being silent.

But I also know that this kind of child abuse must be stopped. As a Christian, and as one who stands against child abuse, I have decided to speak out against cult abuse by writing articles that expose it. I also know that there are a number of people outspoken on this topic who have published, and they could possibly be back-up information for you. I don't know any of them, since I have no contact with other survivors other than my own family, but it is a possibility.

Anyway, to your questions:

Q: Svali, I think our readers are wondering 'Is the Illuminati a religion, secret society, satanism or is it a combination of it, or something different all together, or more sinister?

A: The Illuminati is a group that practices a form of faith known as "enlightenment". It is Luciferian, and they teach their followers that their roots go back to the ancient mystery religions of Babylon, Egypt, and Celtic druidism. They have taken what they consider the "best" of each, the foundational practices, and joined them together into a strongly occult discipline. Many groups at the local level worship ancient deities such as "El","Baal", and "Ashtarte", as well as "Isis and Osiris" and "Set".

This said, the leadership councils at times scoff at the more "primitive" practices of the anarchical, or lower levels. I remember when I was on council in San Diego, they called the high priests and priestesses the "slicers and dicers", who kept the "lower levels happy". This is not to offend anyone, it only shows that at the leadership levels,they often believe they are more scientifically and cognitively driven. But they still practice the principles of enlightenment.

There are 12 steps to this, also known as "the 12 steps of discipline' and they also teach traveling astral planes, time travel, and other metaphysical phenomena. Do people really do this, or is it a drug induced hallucination ? I cannot judge. I saw things that I believe cannot be rationally explained when in this group, things that frightened me, but I can only say that it could be a combination of cult mind control, drug inductions, hypnosis, and some true demonic activity. How much of each, I cannot begin to guess. I do know that these people teach and practice evil.

At the higher levels, the group is no longer people in robes chanting in front of bonfires. Leadership councils have administrators who handle finances (and trust me, this group makes money. That alone would keep it going even if the rest were just religious hog wash). The leadership levels include businessmen, bankers, and local community leaders. They are intelligent, well educated, and active in their churches.Above local leadership councils are the regional councils, who give dictates to the groups below them, help form the policies and agendas for each region, and who interact with the local leadership councils.

At the national level, there are extremely wealthy people who finance these goals and interact with the leaders of other countries. The Illuminati are international. Secret? By all means. The first thing a child learns from "family, or the Order" as they are called, is "The first rule of the Order is secrecy". This is why you don't hear from more survivors who get out. The lengths that this group goes to, to terrify its members into not disclosing, is unbelievable. I have seen set ups (oh, yes, they set up fake deaths, etc. ) where a person was "burned alive" to teach the children not to tell. They are told that this is a traitor, who disclosed,and now he is being punished. (The person wasn't really a traitor, and is in a flame proof vest, but the vision of a person on fire and screaming remains with 3 and 4 year old children for a lifetime). And, when they are adults, even if they DO leave, scenes such as this mean they won't tell many people for fear of being traced and punished.

Because I helped create a lot of set ups as an adult trainer, I became somewhat cynical, and have chosen to disclose as a result. Although I do fight intense fear even now at times. Try being buried in a wooden box for a period of time (it may have been minutes, but to a four year old it is an eternity), and then when the lid is lifted, being told, "if you ever tell, we'll put you back in forever". The child will scream hysterically that they will NEVER EVER tell. I was that child, and now I am breaking that vow made under psychological duress. Because I don't want any other children to go through what I did, or have seen done to others. Yes, the Illuminati are organized, secretive, and extremely wealthy at its upper levels. They are not stupid, or poor people running around dabbling with witchcraft. To see them as this is a huge misconception.

Q: How widespread would you say this group has infiltrated our society in terms of number of people? Are they present in every town or city throughout North America? Do they take or recruit outsiders? And how far does this group go to keep this knowledge secret?

A: I think I answered some of the secrecy above. The Illuminati are present in every major metropolitan center in the United States. They have divided the United States up into 7 major regions, and each has a regional council over it, with the heads of the local councils reporting to them. They meet once every two months, and on special occasions.

A metropolitan region may have as many as 10 to 30 groups within it, and rural areas will often have meetings with other local groups, and report to the metro leadership council. They almost NEVER recruit outsiders, although ocassionally they will buy children or a family from Asia, for example, and keep them under constant surveillance in return for saving their life from the local Mafia. They are threatened with being returned to this group if they ever disclose.

They also have excellent lawyers who are well paid to help cover their tracks. There are also people in the media paid to help keep stories from coming out. I know of three people in San Diego who worked for the Union Tribune who were faithful Illuminists, and who also wrote frequent articles attacking local therapists who worked with RA (Ritual Abuse) survivors. I remember leadership boasting they had "run so-and-so out of town" because of a media blitz, and being quite happy about it.

The Illuminati believe in controlling an area through its:

1. Banks and financial institutions (guess how many sit on banking boards? You'd be surprised)
2. Local government: guess how many get elected to local city councils?
3. Law: children are encouraged to go to law school and medical school.
4. Media:others are encouraged to go to journalism school, and members help fund local papers .

Q: Is this the same Illuminati that was created by Adam Weishaupt in Germany?

A: Weishaupt did not create the Illuminati, they chose him as a figurehead and told him what to write about. The financiers, dating back to the bankers during the times of the Templar Knights who financed the early kings in Europe, created the Illuminati. Weishaupt was their "go fer", who did their bidding.

Q: Do you have anymore info about the political goals, if any, of the Illuminati?

A: This article I wrote for Suite101.com addresses it: "Are the Illuminati taking over the world?" You can reprint it, or part of it, as long as you give credit to Suite 101 and/or a link back to the site.

Q: How do Illuminati members recognise each other?

A: Since it is generational, its easy. It isn't hard to recognize one's father, mother, siblings, and neighbors and friends one has grown up with. The Illuminati use telephone trees to contact members when a meeting is to occur. A month or two ahead of time, leadership council plans dates and places for meetings for different groups under their umbrella. They then call local leaders a week ahead of time (the high priest or priestess). Two days ahead, these people call their head members, who then call the people under them. A person knows their status in the group by how far ahead of time they know a meeting date. The lower in the group, the less they are trusted with information, and the less "lag time" before meetings.

Sometimes, certain pieces of jewelry, such as a ruby ring or an oval emerald, might be worn if meeting someone in a public place at a prearranged assignation. But most accessing and contact is done through family members or close friends.

When I lived in San Diego, my entire family of origin and my four closest friends were all members of the group. It wasn't hard to reach me, to say the least. My spouse was also a member. The Illuminati believe in arranged members, and do NOT allow their members to marry a nonmember. If someone says their spouse isn't in it, they aren't Illuminati, or they are in denial. This was an unbreakable policy. My marriage was arranged by the local leadership council to another ranking member. I didn't want to marry him, because I didn't love him, and I will never forget what I was told by Athena, my mentor at the time (she held the second position on the council): "That's for the best, then, because he can never hurt you or control you." Or, my mother's timeless advice given when I was 12 years old: "Never fu-- someone lower than you. They will drag you down. Always choose someone higher than yourself."

She was an ambitious woman, to say the least, determined that I would do well in this very political group. I took her advice, and Athena was my lover and protected me from some of the SOBs on leadership in San Diego especially Jonathan, the head trainer. She taught me his weaknesses and how to get around him, and stood up to him for me. I wouldn't have survived otherwise.

These are NOT nice people and they use and manipulate others viciously. They cut their eye teeth on status, power, and money. I have given all of that up to leave, and am glad to be away from it now, although I do miss some of my friends, and at times I miss the respect of being a leader. But I am learning to live a whole new life without the constant background of "family" monitoring and telling me what to do.

Know what the hardest part of getting out was? The freedom. Not having anyone telling me what to do. I literally went through a period of adjustment, felt wobbly, trying to figure out what I wanted to do. It was hard, since I was used to reflexively checking my decisions with leadership and Jonathan and my husband. Freedom can be difficult, believe it or not, and took quite a period of time to adjust to. I believe that the inability to deal with it often draws people back in. I hope this information is useful to you.

Part 3: How the Illuminati runs Hollywood

Q: I would think that California would be one of the major 'turfs' of the Illuminati, and I'm thinking specifically Hollywood. What's your inside on this, in regards to film making, symbology, subliminals, the whole scene in general?

A: Oh, boy, do you have a few hours? I'll try to be brief. The Illuminati believe that to control the media is to control the public. This is one of their stated agendas. Remember, finances, media, law, government and education are the areas they targeted as being the best to dominate society.

How do they do this? They don't go to a film producer and say, "Oh, by the way, we're Illuminati members and we want you to make a movie that promotes our agenda". (Remember, they aren't stupid, either). Instead, they will form a small investment corporation that funds movies with ideas that they like. They quietly hire actors and producers and directors and scripts, but they never mention their affiliation publicly or why they are doing this.

Money talks, and especially in Hollywood. If you have money, you can get about anything made, and they know this. They can also channel money into advertising campaigns, etc. for their films (how many Christian films have had major ad campaigns in the past twenty years? Very few. How many occult movies have? I rest my case).

This has been a slow, subtle process because they are patient. They have been working behind the scenes for hundreds of years, and they know that the public is slow to accept new ideas, that it has to be done gradually. (They call it leading in the "sheep" which is one of their terms for the "unenlightened"). And it has been. The number of occult films that has come out in the past ten years alone should make anyone pause and think.

Why so many films with this theme? Why the desensitization of America's youth to the occult and magic? Just look at Saturday morning cartoons. I don't allow my children to watch them, except for "animaniacs" and Bugs Bunny at times. Instead, we rent old classics with Audrey Hepburn and John Wayne. I can send you some articles that did an excellent job of investigating Walt Disney (he was an Illuminist, and Fantasia was used to program children).

Some films that blatantly portray the Illuminist agenda: The Matrix. You could have peeled me off the ceiling when I saw that one. The references to conditioning and the core were so blatant, it wasn't funny. Fight Club: I love Brad Pitt and Ed Norton, and this film is a nod at the covert military buildup going on that the average person doesn't realize. Also, Ed is dissociative in the film, as Pitt's character takes over (notice that the cult-creating military figure is the "stronger" one in the story?).

The Labyrinth: I haven't seen this, but my husband did, and everything he mentioned is pure Illuminati programming stories used with children. Any movies with an occult viewpoint, or that show supernatural psychic phenomena, astral travel, or contact with the spirit world are guaranteed to be part of this agenda. I don't watch them, myself. Saw enough of the real thing to last me this lifetime.

The sensationalization of rituals and other occult insignia on television is another example. Ghost stories. Witch stories. Children's books about Wizards and their training that are extremely popular.

Oh, yes, Starship Trooper. This one had so many cult symbols (the Illumnists have a strong Aryan ideology going, too) that I almost laughed outright when I saw it. I counted at least 100 in it. Someone had fun going tongue-in-cheek with the Illuminist agenda in that one.

Many fine actors and actresses are being used in films funded by these people. Some may know the agenda, most probably do not, as long as they receive a pay check. Some are also Illuminists as well, although I don't know who is. I do know a few, but I don't want to risk a libel suit here.

Anyway, I was too busy training and going to meetings and learning the effects of drugs on people to pay much attention to that part of the group when I was in it, sorry, I don't have lots of famous names in my memories. I lived a very relatively boring life as a teacher and head trainer, and we rarely discussed the media except the fact that it, too, was another tool to bring in "The New Order", which is the motivation for all Illuminists.

I want to address another misconception. That is, the one that the Illuminists know that they are evil. When I was in the group, I and those around me were idealogically committed to the agenda as being GOOD. I thought I was helping others reach their full potential when I was a trainer.

I believed that after years of sweat and hard work, that my intelligence won out, and that I made an excellent leader. I fought Jonathan and others on the council when I thought they were unfair, and stood up for the people beneath me. Others did the same. They honestly think they are doing a GOOD thing, and if you told them it was wrong, or evil, they would look confused.

It took a LOT of therapy and deprogramming myself, doing reality checks with noncult people to realize that it was all a lie. I was devastated. I had dedicated my life to helping others bring in the glorious new order, and then found out it was EVIL and abusive. I went through a period of intense grieving/mourning over this.

Most Illuminists I knew weren't evil, they were deceived. Only the top leadership perhaps were consciously being hurtful.

Part 4: The Illuminati - Freemason Connection

Q: Svali, one of the more important points, which I am sure a lot of readers would like to know more about, is, what is the Illuminati /Freemason connection, as far as you are aware of, given your previous position in the Illuminati? Also, was there and is there an infiltration of the Masonic Order?

A: The Freemasons and the Illuminati are hand in glove. I don't care if this steps on any toes, it's a fact. The masonic temple at Alexandria, Virginia (the city itself was named after Alexandria, Egypt, and is a hotbed of Illuminati activity) is a center in the Washington, DC area for Illuminati scholarship and teaching. I was taken there at intervals for testing, to step up a level, for scholarship, and high ceremonies. The leaders in this masonic group were also Illuminists.

This has been true of every large city I have lived in. The top Freemasons were also top Illuminists. My maternal grandparents were both high ranking Masons in the city of Pittsburgh, Pa. (president of the Eastern Star and 33rd degree Mason) and they both were also leaders in the Illuminati in that area.

Are all Masons Illuminati? No, especially at the lower levels, I believe they know nothing of the practices that occur in the middle of the night in the larger temples. Many are probably fine businessmen and Christians. But I have never known a 32 degree or above who wasn't Illuminati, and the group helped create Freemasonry as a "front" for their activities.

Q: What exactly is the meaning of the pyramid on the back of the $1 U.S. note? I'm talking about the pyramid with the capstone detached and hovering above the rest of the pyramid, containing the 'All-Seeing-Eye'. Is this a Masonic or Illuminati symbol?

A: The pyramid and the "eye of Horus" on the back of the dollar bill are Illuminati symbology. The pyramid is an ancient form based on the holyness of the number 3 to the ancient mystery religions (it, not 6, is considered the most spiritual number), and a pyramid was a structure used specifically to call up the demonic, or occult, a point of psychic activity.

The eye is the all seeing eye of Horus (remember the emphasis on Egyptian magical religious practices? The book of the undead, etc.?) and the fact that no one can escape his magical reach. This eye is considered a demonic eye in the group, or the eye of the deity, and in Illuminati mythology is either open or closed, depending upon the spiritual time of year and the state of the person psychically. Young children are given "psychic surgery" where the eye is placed inside, and they are told that Horus will snatch their soul if they ever try to leave, or if they tell, or that the eye will explode. The symbol on the dollar is reinforcement for every Illuminati child who sees one, and the reminder that they are being watched.

The saying on the dollar, 'Novus Ordo Seclorum' also means "bringing in the new order", which is the Illuminati stated agenda. Just think, in the early 1800's, our forefathers already were looking forward to when the new order would be ushered in. Have I mentioned that this is a patient, forward looking group of intellectuals? That Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, FDR, and others were Illuminati leaders? Our country may have been founded on freedom from taxation, but it was also founded on the New World Order just as surely.

Q: How far back in time does the concept / cult of the Illuminati go? It seems to me that they have been around quite some time, possibly since antiquity, guiding, steering and using humanity for their own purposes, operating under different names? Can you elaborate?

A: I was taught that the Illuminati had its roots in the ancient practices that reach into the beginning of recorded time; that the Babylonians on the plains created ziggurats to their deities, whom the Illuminati worship. They were proud of the fact that it was supposedly an unbroken occult line from then until now. The names changed, the basic group was the same.

The ancient mystery religions of Egypt, heart of dark magic were another forerunner, with adherents of Set, Osiris, Horus and Ra; and the Illuminists also believe their bloodlines have come down from the ancient kings of Egypt.

It's hard for me to know how much was cult propaganda, and how much truth is in the claims. The Templar Knights were definitely a forerunner during medieval times, as well as the Rosicrucians and ancient celts and druids (you know, the ones who built Stonehenge)

Part 5 - Illuminati - CIA Connection - Russia & China

Svali: I just want you and your readers to know that I am NOT an Illuminati expert, nor do I want to be. I am only a survivor who was part of this group, in a lower management position locally. I did NOT rub elbows with the rich and famous, although I heard about things that occurred at higher levels (people do gossip even in the cult, they're still human beings).

There are other people who have come out and disclosed. I don't know them personally, but I have heard about them. One is Brice Taylor, in California and North Carolina (she lives part time in both places). Another is Neil Brick of SmartNews, he seems to be very real and believable and a nice person. Others are Caryn StarDancer, of Survivorship.org, and Annie McKenna (I think she even wrote a book about her experiences [ed. 'Paperclip Dolls'], it is quite good). There are others, and if you go to the Suite101.com site, there are links to resources and also survivor pages. Survivorship.org also has links.

Some survivors have self-published their stories on the web, to help the public know that this is going on. I am only one person among many who has come out to talk about my experiences, and my experiences are limited to what one person did in the Washington, DC area and the San Diego, Ca. area between 1957 and 1995. A person who was doing their job at the time, was very misguided, and who is now heartily sorry for the things that I once participated in.

Q: How do survivors remain anonymous after seeking help? Would the cult not go to extreme measures to find and silence programmers or members that have left the cult? To what ends would they go to shut you up?

A: At Suite 101, and in my book, I wrote a whole chapter on staying safe. Here's the URL for the Suite 101 article: Breaking Free of the Cult. It includes tips on staying safe.

Yes, they do try to re-contact people who get out. The first way they do this is through their family (remember they are transgenerational). My mother told me to "come back or die" four years ago, which triggered off lethal self destruct programming inside (I believe she was counting on my coming back, but she was wrong and I almost died. God spared my life). I then had to go in and dismantle it all. When I left, the head trainer was pretty arrogant. He had said I would be dead within 6 months if I remembered, because "no one could remember with what I put in her and live". Direct quote from Jonathan M., head trainer, and I hope he reads this article.

Second, a lot of people get abducted and re-accessed because they : phone their perps, go out alone at night (you wouldn't believe the stories I have heard from survivors who told me they went out at 2 or 3 am to the store, alone, walking down alleys. What were they thinking????).

I helped one survivor get out three years ago, she was being harassed by the group, and was fighting back, she literally pulled a gun on a would-be abductor and he backed away (he had his gun out) when she asked him, "and who of the two of us do you think is the better shot?" She was an expert marksman). She stayed with me for 6 months, and is free of the group.

They usually do give up after awhile, and get tired of trying to pull people back. I could never live in San Diego, or DC, though. The chances of running into an old trainer or someone I knew would be too great. Instead, having physical distance (people in the cult in this state don't know me or care about me one way or the other) helps. I also have tons of accountability. These people like secrecy, and won't usually act out in public if someone is with people who aren't part of their group. I have heard of people being assassinated , which is one reason that I don't go on T.V., or speak publicly. I live very quietly and anonymously out here. MOST cult re-contact comes because the person re-contacts, though. The pull to go back is enormous at times, and has to be fought a lot, especially in the first years. To find out why someone would go back to their abusers, read my article on "Trauma Bonding: The Pull to the Perpetrator" at Suite 101.

Q: I want to get back to the Illuminati's political agenda. What is the connection between the CIA, FBI, and other secret services and the cult? To what degree are they infiltrated? And what is the real agenda of these secret services?

A: They are all infiltrated. I don't think everyone in these groups are Illuminists, but a lot of the leadership is. An example: my mother was friends with Sid Gottlieb, who was part of the CIA. The farm I grew up on was only about a half hour away from his home in Culpeper, Va. She also knew the Dulles family. A lot of the researchers in the CIA were part of it, and I visited Langley, Va. at intervals growing up. MK-Ultra was funded in part with Illuminati money. These people use the most sophisticated mind control techniques on their members, believe me.

When I was in San Diego, human experimentation was still going on. Jonathan and I were investigating the effects of certain drugs on inducing trance states and assisting with programming. We would take the data, and download it into a database (oh, yes, the cult is very technologically sophisticated) and then send it to Langley.

Many of the administrators and directors at the FBI are also Illuminists. The CIA helped bring over German scientists after WWII. Many of these were also Illuminati leaders in their own country, and they were welcomed with open arms by the U.S. group. They also funneled all information they were learning to the Illuminati.

Q: I assume if the U.S. political, banking, and military systems are all fairly well under Illuminati control this would then also be true for Eastern Europe, Russia and other communist bloc countries as well. What does this mean for relations between the West-East axis? Was Russia, or the USSR at the time, ever the adversary it was made out to be, and was there a grand plan behind having Russia as an enemy?

A: Russia was never really a threat to us. Marxism was funded by the Illuminati, and espoused as a counterbalance to capitalism. The Illluminati believe strongly in balancing opposing forces, in the pull between opposites. They see history as a complex chess game, and they will fund one side, then another, while ultimately out of the chaos and division ..., they are laughing because they are ultimately beyond political parties. A top western financier will secretly meet with an eastern or russian "adversary" during those years, and have a good laugh at how the "sheep" were being deluded. I am sharing here what I was taught, and also observed.

When DELPHI met with ORACLE in Europe, (these are the head training groups for the northern hemisphere and european continents) the Russian, German, French, British, Canadian, and US trainers all worked together. In fact, this is one reason why plurality of linguality is valued in the Illuminati. I had to learn six languages as a child, and learn to converse with people from around the world. They are truly an international group, and the group's agenda supercedes any nationalistic feelings. There is also a lot of trading back and forth of members in these groups. A russian trainer might come to the US for awhile, complete a job, then go back, or vice-versa.

Q: China is starting to rattle their sabers and arming itself with nuclear weapons which are pointing at U.S. cities. Is all this occurring according to Illuminati agenda or is there still a fairly large 'uncertainty, random or x-factor' involved that is beyond the Illuminati's control?

A: I have been out for five years, so my information is "old news". But the military buildup of China is part of their plan. There are members of the group who are Asian, and very opportunistic. The Oriental Mafia groups are very much linked to Illuminati activity. The random factor in all of this is how the average citizen reacts. It can't be predicted, although Illuminati leadership will often invent different scenarios, and try to decide how they will act if the ordinary citizens react in an unexpected manner.

I was told that around 2020, the Illuminist agenda would be revealed openly. I don't know if this is accurate, or just propaganda that I was taught, or if they have changed this date since I was in the group.

Q: Svali, earlier you were talking about mindcontrol victims and survivors that have come forward with their stories and publicised it. One of the more recent and high profile stories is the one of Cathy O'Brian [see links at http://www.vegan.swinternet.co.uk/articles/conspiracies/cathyandmark.html and http://www.trance-formation.com/ ]. She seems to be more of a CIA mind control victim, which still sound very much like your own story, in terms of technology and technique. Do you think there could be an Illuminati connection?

A: As I mentioned before, the CIA and the Illuminati are definitely linked. The top leadership in the CIA are also Illuminati leaders. I mentioned Dulles and Gottlieb as men I knew personally as a child and young adult. The scientists that ran the MK-Ultra and other governmental mind control programs were Illuminists brought over from Nazi Germany. That's why you will find that mind control victims ALWAYS speak German or have a dissociated part that speaks with a German accent; they are mimicking their abusers, which is very very common.

You could say that the CIA and the Illuminati are hand in glove companions. I know that the different Illuminati groups around the US also send data on the experiments they do to the central computer at Langley, Va. (oh, yes, human experimentation and mind control experiments are still ongoing, it didn't stop with WWII...).

Part 6 - Ritual Abuse - Mind Control Denial; Bohemian Grove

Q: I just find it amazing that this sort of topic (Ritual Abuse, mindcontrol) gets next to no press attention, considering the amount of evidence available.

A: Here is where I will sound really, really cynical. I'm not surprised, because the Illuminati leadership often boasted that their best protection was that no one would believe what was happening. They also have their own media blitz campaign, one that is pretty effective. For example, a reporter with the initials M. S., who wrote articles on Ritual Abuse (RA) and Mind Control in the San Diego Union-Tribune, was a member of the Illuminati. His articles have almost a patent formula.

1. He interviews supposedly respected doctors in the field. These people with scholarly credentials, the "thinking man's verdict" give a rational, measured conclusion: no logically thinking being could ever possibly believe in ritual abuse, and the therapists that treat victims of it are leading the poor people on, the gullible little dears being oppressed by therapists of a most vicious and mercenary bent.

2. He then exposes the "fundamentalist, narrow minded" "raving" and "mentally ill" people who say that ritual abuse is real, and the "fraudulent" or supposedly mercenary/attention seeking therapists that work with them. His word images create the image of a person practically foaming at the mouth, full of demented ravings, on this side of the fence. He then brings in the heart break of dear, precious families broken apart by the wicked therapists who are "implanting" ideas of ritual abuse in these poor victim's heads.

Wrap up with the supposedly rational, caring, logical and compassionate person on the FMS board saying how tragic it is that this is occurring, that something needs to be done.

M.S. never mentions that the therapists who work with ritual abuse survivors work for very low pay, or sometimes for free, to help these people break free of the chains of a lifetime. He never ever interviews the large percentage (>85%) of the psychological field that has stated that they believe that ritual abuse is, or could be real; instead, he only interviews the minority viewpoint to feed his agenda.

Okay, so now we know that the normal media is quite biased at times.

Q: But, with the evidence out there, why aren't more people concerned about the Illuminati?

A: Because they simply can't, won't believe that this is happening. I am a strong Christian, and in Revelations, it says that right before the return of Jesus, people will be acting as if nothing has happened, that all is normal, in spite of evidence to the contrary. You could show people a video taken of a ritual, and they would declare: "it has to be a fake; people just don't do those things." You can show them a site with pentagrams, buried bones, and other evidence, and they would say, "Oh, that is just teenagers playing around". You can show them photos of underground tunnels near Los Alamos, and they will say, "Isn't that interesting. Must be some government project." They can be shown the scars on a survivor's body, from cigarette burns in childhood, and old lash marks that have healed on their back, and the question would be "are you sure it wasn't self inflicted?"

The evidence is there, but in my opinion, the average person does NOT want to know, and even when confronted with it, will look the other way.

The Franklin case is a point. How much evidence has come out? Or the MK-Ultra documents that have been declassified, shown as real, and people ignore it.

Okay, I'll get off my soap box. But I believe that the media that downplays ritual abuse is feeding into a deep need in the average person to NOT know the reality. In fact, how can a person face the fact of great evil in mankind, unless they have either a strong faith in God, or are faced with insurmountable evidence? We as human beings want to believe the BEST of our race, not the worst, IMHO.

Q: You probably have heard of the 'Bohemian Grove'. What do you know about this? Any connection to the Illuminati?

A: I myself do not know anything about the Bohemian Grove. Remember, I wouldn't have been in a position to have much to do with it. Most of my connections were with Germany. I was never prostituted out, instead I taught others to be that. But I myself never went there, and really don't know anything about it. I'm sorry I can't be more helpful there.

Now, if you were asking about the masonic temple in Alexandria, Va., or the "Institute' in Charlottesville, Va., or a small grove up in Canada with a bronze statue of Baal, I could help you. Sorry I don't have anything to share on this topic. If the Bohemian Grove is occult, though, it probably definitely is known about by the Illuminati

Part 7 - Illuminati Symbols and Clues; Level of Infiltration -

Q: 'Yes, tell me more about that (german connection, masonic temple, the 'institute' and the Baal statue in Canada, please [see previous article]). What are some of the Illuminati trademarks, symbols and clues that are placed throughout society as their signals (other than the pyramid and all-seeing-eye of Horus), intentionally or unintentionally. Does the Illuminati get careless?

A: To completely answer these questions, you would need my whole biography. I had thought once about writing it, but I doubt many would read it (seriously, this isn't false modesty) and also I really don't believe people will do anything about the Illuminati even if they know. Sorry for the cynicism, but it is based on a lifetime of experience.

The Illuminists don't care who prints this stuff, or if they are "exposed" because they are counting on the majority not believing it, having done a pretty good job with a media blitz campaign (seen any articles in Newsweek or Time lately that addresses this other than as a laughable conspiracy theory? Guess who owns Time-Warner?).

I have heard them laughing about this very thing in leadership meetings five years ago, and I doubt their attitude has changed much since then. If people DID believe this, if action were able to be taken, then I would be very surprised and quite happy.

I'll give you an example. Two years ago, I tried to find a publisher for my book on how the Illuminati program people. I wanted it available for therapists who work with survivors. I couldn't find anyone willing to consider it; they told me it was much too controversial, and "there is no market for this among the general public". Sad, but true.

At the same time, I do believe that God is in control of world history. I have exposed them, and self published my book for free on the web, to let those who work with survivors realize what they have been through. It's hard to help people leaving a group without understanding the traumas both emotional and physical that they have endured.

Okay, now to your questions.

1. The Bruderheist is the ruling council of Germany. It meets in the black forest region, which is considered the center of the earth, and a vortex for psychical/spiritual energy. They are some of the most vicious people I have ever known in my life, and make the Nazis (who they encouraged) look like fun people. They are still there, manipulating people, running banks, and channeling their dirty money to Brussels, Switzerland, and Cairo, Egypt.

2. Canada has a very large Illuminati and Templar Knight community (they are hand in glove groups) that worship ancient deities. The gold or bronze statue of Baal is in a holy grove on a large private estate between Quebec and Montreal. Since I was only 12 years old when I went there, the details aren't quite as clear. But the ceremonies there were full of people in white gowns, lots of flowers and fruits and votive offerings, singing, then the final sacrifice in the arms of the statue.

3. Illuminati trademarks: these are the most cautionary people on earth. They try to leave absolutely NO tracks. Most of the symbology can be seen on T.V. or movies, and include: the concept of a military government ruling. These people are very, very militaristic.

The Phoenix: this is one of their highest military and spiritual symbols. If you see a German eagle, too, this is a huge sign. Certain companies will use a phoenix as their logo, especially red on black, or the reverse, this is a huge sign, since the Illuminati use many resuscitation rituals in their training, where the person is brought into a death, or near death state, then "resuscitated" and told that Baal, or some other entity, "gave them life" and they owe their new life to him and the group. Thus, the phoenix is a huge trigger and symbol.

Butterflies and rainbow signs are big triggers for people who have gone through the Monarch programming (yes, the Illuminists invented Monarch programming with the CIA). Certain types of jewelry are used as triggers. If a person goes online, and plays certain role games (like Ultima) the games are FULL of trigger symbols, such as gem stones. I don't play them but my husband does, and I have told him what the symbols mean. He thinks it's funny since they don't bother him (he isn't Illuminati).

A tiara, or crown with 13 gems, with a diamond in the center, is a symbol of the coming reign of the "chosen one".

Star of David: believe it or not, one of the highest Illuminati religious symbols is a star of David with a circle around it. Called "the great seal of Solomon" it is used at the highest ceremonies to invoke the demonic.

Earth, water, and fire: these three are used in a lot of ceremonies. Check out how many Saturday a.m. cartoons use this concept. You'd be amazed. In fact, "The Fifth Element" movie was based on it.

Greek and Roman mythology and symbols: The Illuminati use a tremendous amount of Greek and Roman mythology in their programming, and most people will have internal structures with a roman or greek temple inside. Lightening bolts, and any symbols from this time will also trigger those with this inside. For more, just pick up any recent Time magazine. Most of the ads are filled with Illuminati symbology. A picture of a head with a computer inside is another big one, symbolizes delta programming, for example.

Q: Take the lead and tell me about issues you may not have covered in your articles or in this interview.... perhaps some issues I have missed in regards to the New World Order/ global government and such...

A: 1. These people are pedophiliacs, they abuse and torture small children and teach them under duress to become perpetrators themselves from earliest infancy. This alone means they should be stopped.

They run the porn industry, along with other groups such as the Mafia. They make enormous amounts of money from drug smuggling, gun running, and human slavery (oh, yes, the buying and selling of human beings is alive and well in the 21st century).

They are involved in evil and money making in the extreme. If a profit is being made off of human suffering, you can trace the chain back somewhere to these people.

2. They have money and lawyers that could blast anyone confronting them out of the water.

3. They have infiltrated our government, and the governments of every country in the world, and well as the judicial and legal systems.

4. The media as well.

5. They run our financial institutions.

6. They are ruthless, ambitious, and will not stop at killing those they oppose. They invented MK-Ultra with the help of the CIA. Still want to take them on? Sorry, just letting you know what they are like.

7. They are working towards bringing in a new leader, who will usher in a Luciferian reign of joy, prosperity, and rewards to the faithful. Almost an Elyssian type paradise. Of course, the brutality would continue, and those who oppose his reign are to be hunted down and converted or destroyed, but the followers will be so happy and content that they believe these holdouts will want to come over to their side. Sounds unbelievable, but true.

Also, people will have new jobs, and leadership positions in this new order, since the Illuminati believe that their children are the brightest and best (remember that lifetime of training and teaching?) and will be the intellectual elite who will rule over the unintelligent, or "less fit". These people really, truly believe this, and almost worship Plato's ideal Republic as their blue print for the new order.

Now, the other side of the picture.
1. They are arrogant, and this could be their downfall. They view the common man as "sheep" with no intelligence. They are full of pride, believe they are invulnerable (see above) and that any press about them is the equivalent of a gnat to be swatted. Arrogant people make mistakes, and they are becoming more blatant and open in recent years.

2. They believe they can overcome God, which is a huge mistake. God can stay the hand of history, and has so far, in the hope that more from this group will get out, because He is merciful.

3. Most of them are wounded, abused victims, who don't realize that it is possible to leave the group. There is a lot of discontent in the ranks, and there would be a mass exodus if the members believed it were really possible to get out (and live). Many of the trainers I knew (I know, wicked, torturing pedophiles) were NOT happy with what they did. They would whisper quietly, or give a look, to show that they disagreed with what they had to do. They would resignedly do their jobs, in the hope of advancement.

Know what one of the biggest carrots offered to those who advance up in the group is? That you don't have to hurt people anymore, and that you can't be abused (it's true: only those higher than you in the group can abuse you, so everyone wants to move up, where the pool of candidates becomes smaller). Of course, people can choose to abuse anyone beneath them, and that motivates some (but not all!) to move up.

4. As more survivors leave, therapists and churches and support people are becoming more aware of the sophisticated mind control techniques used to control members. They are learning to undo it.

5. Prayer can overcome the greatest evil, and my greatest hope is that those I once knew in this group, including the heads and those who hurt me at times, would get out. That they could know that, yes, it is truly possible to leave.

Q: I have seen Clinton do this hand sign on a few occasion, and now Prince William as well. Any hidden meaning?

A: That is an old, well known greeting of one satanist to another. Usually, the Illuminists are a lot more subtle and don't do that publicly.

Part 8 - The Fourth Reich

Q: The way you describe the Illuminati it sounds like the Third Reich Revival. I can certainly see the Nazi traits in their behavior and goals. It seems like Germany is taking the lead, yet again, in uniting the EU, we see the setting up of a European Army, the Rapid Reaction Force, and a World Court. How is this ultimately going to play out?

A: Actually, they have a name for the New World Order. One of the synonyms used is the "Fourth Reich". I'm serious. Lots of Illuminists have Fourth Reich programming inside. Yep, Germany, and the EU, will dominate the world economy. The US economy will go down for awhile, then restore with the help of Europe.

Q: The Book of Revelation pretty much paints a gloomy picture of how this is going to end, and by what means. How is this going to effect the Illuminati agenda? They would certainly know about the prophecies of old and their own foretold demise. Are they attempting to use prophecies, somehow, to their advantage by way of deceiving human beings?

A: Basically, they are in denial. They believe that history can be changed, and that John's prophetic revelation is only one interpretation of the future. They are aware of Revelations, but don't take it too seriously.

Remember, some of those at the top are ALREADY in power, figuratively speaking. They dominate the financial picture, have immense wealth, several mansions around the world, anything they want, and the (to them) joy of controlling millions of others. They believe their intellect is sharp, and that they will be the "good guys" in the New Order. They are Luciferians, and so believe the Bible is misguided in its assertions.

For all intents and purposes, if you asked them, they would probably laugh and say, "But the new order is already here. It just isn't open yet."

They have been in power for several hundred years, with no lightening bolts from heaven striking them dead. They may even believe that they represent God's will on earth (remember, they serve "God", too, just not the same as the Biblical Christian one).

They would ask back, "how did God allow people to develop such potential if He didn't want us to help them use it? Isn't it a criminal waste of the intellect and the gifts he gave us to NOT develop them, and help people mature into a better race?' They would argue along these lines.

They believe that basically, they are GOOD and doing a good work, even if the means are tough to endure at the time. They are weeding out the weak and unfit, and developing a supreme human being. I know it sounds like hog wash, but they truly, honestly believe this at a core level. To be under the judgments in Revelations, they would have to see themselves as evil, and they don't.

I hope this helps explain a little. I think they would see themselves in that picture as riding in on the white horses, not the dark ones. Such is the power of deception. I am a Christian, myself, and have given up these old beliefs that I was taught in the cult.

Part 9 - Ritual Sacrifices - Demons- Shape Shifting

Q: Svali, earlier on you talked about sacrifices. You are talking about animal sacrifices, right? Give me a bit more details about that, please.

A: I hate to sensationalize things by going into gruesome particulars, but I will share a little.

First, please remember that the Illuminati have SIX branches of learning, and the spiritual (where the sacrifices are done) is only ONE part of what they do. I was in Sciences, and used to make fun of people who specialized in spiritual. Yes, everyone has to go to spiritual rituals during certain high days, but I tried to stay as far from it as I could. It's ugly, crude, and gross, but considered important.

1. The celtic branch of spiritual believes that power is passed at the moment between life and death. They will do rituals with children, or even older adherents, where the person is tied down, and an animal is bled to death on top of them. The belief is that the person receives power from the departing spirit, which "enters" the person. It is also highly traumatizing and horrible to have an animal go through its death throes on top of you. Throw in a few threats that "this will happen to you if you ever tell," and a quite strong impression is made on small children.

2. Opening portals and dimensions: I know, this sounds like stuff from a sci-fi film, but these people really believe that there are other spiritual dimensions, and that to pass into them, first a major sacrifice is done to "open a portal", usually several animals. I have also seen animal sacrifices done to protect from the demonic, or blood used to "close a circle" so the demonic cannot penetrate it.

The Illuminists very much believe in the spiritual realm, and have codified practiced over hundreds of years from ancient occultic rituals. They believe they can control these powers (I believe they are deluded).

Sacrifices are also done on high holy days. I have seen an animal "psychically killed" in front of me, and have no way to explain what I saw. I have also seen human sacrifice, but these were very rare (I believe I have seen two or three real ones in my life, the rest were set-ups).

They really don't want to kill off their children, they want a new generation to grow up and continue the practices. I have also heard of them buying children from other countries, and using them, or the homeless, but never witnessed it myself.

More often, I saw animals used in sacrifices and rituals. Other loss of life, rare but horrible, I saw as a head trainer because of my job. Rarely, a trainer would push a person too far, and didn't check for signs of stress. Especially with some of the newer medications used to create trance states, their meds covered the more obvious signs of trauma and stress (elevated heart rate, rapid breathing, tremors, pupil size changing), or blunted them.

Inexperienced trainers would miss more subtle signs, and basically screw a person up. It is horrible to work with a person, and they NEVER COME BACK. They become a vegetable, or worse, they scream and scream for hours without end.

We occasionally had to "put down" these training failures, by using a lethal injection of air, or insulin. The person was then set up in a "fatal crash" or "fire" to dispose of the body. May God forgive me for the few times this happened and I was forced to act. I so regret it now. A person cannot be kind or sympathetic. And, the trainer always knows that it could be them next on the table, screaming, so they do their jobs well.

Any failures are heavily punished, to say the least. One of my jobs was teaching younger trainers the masking effects of hypnotic drug combinations, and how to recognize subtle clues of distress. Sigh.

Do the failures count as "sacrifices" to a horrible evil that is perpetrated on others? I think so, even though there was no ritual about it at all, it was all done in a training room with lab coats and needles.

Q: Svali, I have to ask you this: There are stories floating around on the internet about the Illuminati (and other agencies) being run by extra-terrestrials, ET's, in particular a reptilian race, operating from a higher dimension. Any thoughts on that?

A: My answer will probably cause a lot of anger, and it's not meant to step on any toes. Here it goes.

I have never seen an alien or extra-terrestrial. I have seen some programming to make people THINK they saw aliens, as a cover story for programming, if they remembered. None of the head trainers I knew, or others on leadership council, believed in aliens, although I never asked them.

I personally believe that the reptilian stuff is actually the demonic at work. I have seen shape-shifting and other stuff because of demonic influence (okay, so here some will say, gee, she believes in demons, that's as far out as aliens).

Well, this is what the Illuminati certainly believe in. They KNOW there are spiritual realities, and think they can control them. Those of a more cynical bent would say the shape shifting was a drug induced hallucination and group hysteria in the context of a ritual setting. I will let each reader decide based on their personal comfort zone. But no, absolutely no reptiles or aliens seen in Washington, DC, or San Diego, Ca. as of 5 years ago, at least I never saw them.

Part 10 - More About Demonic Shape Shifting -

Q: Tell me more about the shape-shifting part, please. I have heard about this elsewhere, and this not just occurring during rituals, some people claim to have seen politicians shape-shift, for instance. When you say 'demonic' are you talking about a specific 'demon' or type of demon? Is it possible that these demons are really nothing more than some type of ETs influencing the Illuminati, in turn deceiving them?

A: Since you asked about shape shifting, I will share a little more, but it also relates directly to my own belief system. Can't help it, so I will warn you here that I will be discussing fundamental Christianity and the demonic.

After being raised in a group that glorifies the demonic, I became a Christian years ago. I honestly believe that without faith in Jesus Christ, I could NEVER have gotten out of the Illuminati, and one reason I don't fear for my life when I share what I remember is that I believe that God is able to protect me.

His love is the antithesis of the cruelty and evil that I saw in this group. His compassion and infinite caring and purity the opposite of the sexual abuse and darkness that surrounded the rituals. I believe that God has forgiven my past, I have sincerely asked His forgiveness, or I could not live with the memories of what I did to others (such as getting young girls addicted to drugs, so they would prostitute for the cult, as only one example).

I have renounced that lifestyle, given it up, and only Christianity has shown me the love and forgiveness and healing that I have needed for a soul weary beyond belief after seeing the underbelly of life and the cruelty that human beings are capable of showing to others.

In the occult world, I do believe that there are demons, that they are real, and that they have a spiritual hierarchy that the cult hierarchy attempts to emulate on a physical plane.

There are principalities, and lower demons, and they control the portals into other spiritual dimensions that humans have NO BUSINESS entering. This stuff is destructive in the extreme to people.

The shape shifting was usually in the context of an occult ceremony, by those given completely over to the demonic. Humans took on the form of animals for a period of time, or of hideous looking beings, and they were NOT aliens. This was demonic activity that caused a human to see the demonic revealed, and distorted what they saw.

I have seen people go temporarily "blind" because of the demonic influence. I have seen animals psychically killed, by others coming into a circle and directing their "energy" at the animal. These were not aliens, some of them were people I grew up with, and my own mother (she was strange, but not an alien).

I participated in this as well at times, and I'm no alien, just a wounded human being. I believe that the demonic does have sexual relations with humans, because it is recorded in the Bible (Genesis); God also forbids it as being completely wrong.

In fact, the Biblical covenants are the antithesis of the dark covenants practiced by the Illuminati, and I have found a lot of healing by going to Scripture and seeing how God views our world, and how He deals with the Spiritual realm. He is going to win, and is in the process of winning the battle.

I will share with you a dream I had 2 years ago. I was standing in a large room, circular shaped, with tiers of rows. A large emblem of the world with a wreath above it was on the wall, and robed figures surrounded me. I was before the Supreme World Council (who will rule when the NWO comes in), and they were pointing at me and saying I was a traitor and would have to die.

The sense of darkness and oppression in the room was intolerable, I was choking from it. One of the leaders came forward, and said that I would die a traitor's death, as an example to them all, unless I came back into the fold of "family".

I fought the dark impulse to give in to save my life, then in my mind, cried out "Jesus, save me". Instantly, the love and peace of God filled my heart, I was no longer afraid, and I told him, "No, because you are defeated, you just don't realize it. You can kill my body, but I serve a God who has defeated you and everyone in this room."

I woke up at this point, filled with joy. Now you know why I don't mind answering questions about my past. I believe in a God who is greater than the plans of evil men. They can plot all they want, but in the end, their plans will be defeated.

So ask away, any time, and I will share with you all that I remember. I don't mind exposing them, although I do have a lot of cynicism, as I have noted, as to whether people will do anything about it.

While I respect your desire to investigate, and your openness to any possibilities, I can tell you that as a former lifetime member of the group, I saw demons acting, not reptiles or aliens. I would really wonder about aliens who were as vicious and against Biblical Christianity in particular as the demons I saw.

Part 11: Illuminati Proof - Vulnerabilities

Q: Svali, have you ever come forward publicly with that story, or is this the first time?

A:I have never gone into the demonic aspects much, because it is so controversial (ie. your question below!). I have shared this before
with my husband, my therapist, and a close friend. I'm not really a "public" person, I've only posted some articles at Suite101.com, to
help others who are trying to get out of the cult.

I hate sensationalizing stuff, personally, because it can detract from the real problem; children are being hurt and abused, and the abuse
needs to stop. Call it demons, aliens, or whatever, there are evil men (and women) using small children and profiting from their pain. That
is why I have spoken out against this group.

Q: I am certain that a lot of readers will say 'Come on, now I know this is just sci-fi, how can this be real?!' and would want to
see some proof or evidence to that. What would you say to them?

A: I would say "go to a ritual, you will see plenty" except that I don't want ANYONE to ever see or be near that type of evil. Spiritual
realities don't leave physical marks, but I think it is interesting that throughout recorded history, mankind has written about these type of
phenomena.

Could all of our recorded histories be false? Could mankind be a pathological liar throughout the centuries in this area? If a person
visits Africa, they will also hear accounts of shape shifting done by the occult, and there, they DON'T dissociate, so you can interview
people who have seen it while fully conscious.

In South America, and Asia, this also occurs. How could a world-wide phenomena be made up by groups that had no previous
contact with each other?

Does the demonic leave a trail, a mark that I can point to? No. But does it leave an indelible impression on those that have witnessed
it? Yes, and even in pre-medieval times, this type of stuff was recorded.

I didn't take videos or snapshots of this stuff happening, so a person has to decide whether they believe it or not based on oral testimony.
I don't really care. I know what I saw.

Q: Also, to wrap this interview up for now, what do you see as the Illuminati's Achilles Heel, their vulnerability? Is there any
way to stop them, and a way for humanity to move on and say 'It is finished!'?

At the moment it seems hopeless, sort of like having your fingers in a Chinese finger trap, - you know what I'm talking about - with
no way out.

A: 1. Their arrogance (I think I mentioned this before) is their weakness. These people think they are untouchable, and this could
make them careless.

2. If by a miracle, enough people took this SERIOUSLY and started organizing in some way to stop the Illuminati take over, with prayer
and God's guidance, perhaps they could be stopped. I hope so, with all of my heart.

3. Stopping pornography and child prostitution and drug smuggling and gun running would take out a huge chunk of their profits. Maybe
they would slow down. But honestly, stopping the above would be as difficult as stopping the group.

4. To be honest, I don't know what could really stop them. I have written about this group to try and expose them, I have gone to the
police several times, given videotaped testimony against them in a court case (the interview was with 5 lawyers and took 3 hours),
knowing that my ex-headtrainer would be seeing a copy of the video (I thought about smiling and waving and saying "hi Jonathan", but
then decided that might be going a little too far).

I have encouraged others in getting out, and helped a few survivors find safe housing and a way to stay out. I guess each person has to do
their best in fighting these people, in the way they feel led to. My skills tend to be in writing, so I am using them.

Q: If you have any last comments or think there are some areas we have not touched or topics you would like to take us to,
please feel free to share those.

A: If anyone has heard the sobs of a child when it has been used brutally by adults, or the screams of a child psychologically
terrorized, they would do anything they could to stop this abuse.

There are children as young as three and four being used in pornographic films, beaten black and blue if they refuse to comply.
There are toddlers being forced to watch brutalities, then given a stick and told to go over and hit the victim themselves, or they will
be beaten. The child hesitates, it doesn't want to, and the adults hit the child, until the child goes, tears streaming down its face, and
unwillingly does what the adults tell it. This is cruelty beyond belief.

To see a slightly older child with an electric dog collar around its neck, shocked when it tries to "escape" and treated as an animal, to
the laughter of the adults and older children around it, and the child goes over to a bush and vomits from fear and self-loathing.

These are the pictures that any survivor of the Illuminati holds in their heart, and these are the reasons I will write and write about
them to expose them, and why my heartfelt prayer is that they can be stopped. I wish I were making this up, but I'm not. I wish I didn't
have these pictures engraved in my memory, but I do.

Q: Svali, would you be willing to answer readers questions or feedback, in form of some future article? I think there may be
some questions coming in for you at some point, probably to cover some details about your story.

A: I would prefer that they send their questions to you, and then you forward them, if possible. I don't want to get a lot of "hate mail"
because I am writing about a topic that is controversial and politically incorrect to talk about.

I'm sure there will be those who say, "oh, she just wants attention". Well, I get plenty of attention at the classes I teach, with a room full
of students, and lots more fun besides. I get attention seeing my NON abuse articles in print, and make money besides (which I don't when
I write about this)..

No, I want to expose these people, that's my motivation. Some will believe what I am writing, others won't. That's fine with me. If they
feel the need to vent their disbelief, that's fine, as long as I don't get lots of cuss words, or people saying I'm stupid (oh, yes, I get letters
like that at times) or uneducated.

Sorry, none of the above are true. I have 2 university degrees. I had to, I was told to by the cult. They don't let stupid people lead.

Oh, and HJ, I won't just disappear on you or recant anything I wrote. You can email me anytime with questions, and I will delightedly
expose what SOBs this group is composed of. Oops, that doesn't sound Christian there, but God appreciates honesty, doesn't He? I'm
only accurately describing them. I'm still working on forgiveness, as you can see...

Q: Svali, I'm grateful you took the time to share those experiences with us, which I'm sure was neither easy nor
pleasant. I wish you all the best, for you and your family. Perhaps more people will read this, and pass this article on to others.
Maybe we can stop all of this shocking brutality, child abuse, the Illuminati someday. It's never too late. Thank your very much
for this interview, Svali.

Part 12 - The Top of the Pyramid -

Q: Svali, a very important question I'm sure all our readers are asking themselves is, who heads the Illuminati? Who is the top of the pyramid?

A: Hooboy! Where do I start with this? First, it depends on what level. I would like to draw up a little map of the Illuminati from my memories (which are NOT FOND) of being part of this group. I will also try to fill in some names, but I want to be cautious. If I name too many names, I could draw some nasty fire from people in the group. Here it goes:

I will be doing an upside down pyramid, to show the Illuminati structure, NOT to trigger people (I know the Illuminati use lots of pyramids) but because this is how they have their hierarchy set up:

Level One: Local level: (anytown, USA)

Sister groups

There will be between ten and thirty sister groups in most metropolitan areas, dependent on the size of the city. The larger the city, the more sister groups. There are Illuminati groups in EVERY major city in the US and Europe. This first level is what is known as the "anarchical" or "low level". It is what most people reporting ritual abuse discuss: a high priest and priestess preside over each group, which also contains a group of two to four trainers, and others with jobs. The sister groups unite on rare occasions, are aware of each other, but each one is fairly independent, and reports only to their leadership council.

Level Two: Metropolitan leadership council:

This is what the local leadership council over these groups will look like. It will also cover scattered groups in outlying rural areas.

Baalim (head) (1), assistants to the head (2) administrators over finances and day to day happenings (4), head trainers (oversee and teach other trainers) (6).

The total: 13 members

The Baalim and his two assistants report to:

Regional Leadership Council

The United States has been divided into seven different regions geographically. Each region has a 13 member leadership council that coordinates with the local leadership councils (are you getting the idea by now? The Illuminati are set up a lot like "Amway" or any other well-organized business enterprise with a flowchart of accountability for each member). This council will look something like this:

Head of council (1), Military (2 seats), Spiritual (2 seats), Scholarship (2 seats), Finances (2 seats), Training (2 seats), Sciences (2 seats).

Total: 13 members

The regional councils will represent the different areas of interest and knowledge that the Illuminati pursue. The membership will change over time as members are promoted or demoted.

The seven regional councils each have a leader as noted above, who reports to the:

National Council (The nations in Europe also have national councils, Mexico and Canada do as well, as does the Soviet Republic and China).

The national council will look much like the one above, with this difference; these are influential bankers with OLD money such as: The Rockefellers, the Mellon family, the Carnegie family, the Rothschild family etc. I know I shouldn't name names, but I will.

The heads of the National councils report to:

The Supreme World Council.

This council is already set up as a prototype of the one that will rule when the NWO comes into being. It meets on a regular basis to discuss finances, direction, policy, etc. and to problem-solve difficulties that come up. Once again, these leaders are heads in the financial world, OLD banking money. The Rothschild family in England, and in France, have ruling seats. A descendant of the Hapsburg dynasty has a generational seat. A descendant of the ruling families of England and France have a generational seat. The Rockefeller family in the US holds a seat.

This is one reason that the Illuminati have been pretty "untouchable" over the years. The ruling members are very, very, very wealthy and powerful. I hope this information is helpful. How do I know this? I was on a local leadership council (a head trainer), but I talked to those on regional. Also, every Illuminati child is taught who their "leaders" are, and told to take an oath of allegiance to them and the "New Order to come".

Q: To what degree is the European royalty involved, what is their real pecking order and power structure and what is their U.S.-U.K. relationship in terms of financial/political/cult power. Is the Monarchy still running the show?

A: This is hard to answer, but I'll try. The Illuminati leadership state that they are descended from royal bloodlines, as well as unbroken occult heritage.

See, there were two definitions of "royalty" used. Open royalty that is currently seen now, and "hidden royalty" of royal lineage and extreme occult power. Sometimes the two were concurrent, such as with the Prince of Wales.

I never thought of which country/line held the most power, since I was just a peon busily doing my job. But my understanding was: The Hanoverian / Hapsburg descendants rule in Germany over the Bruderheist. They are considered one of the strongest lines for occult as well. The British line is just under them, with the royal family. Definitely, they rule the UK branch under the Rothschilds in the occult realm, even though parliament rules the country openly.

In France, again, descendants of the royal families are also in power in the occult realm, but the French Rothschilds hold the reigns over all or them. The U.S. is considered lower, and younger, than the European branches. This is why the children of leaders are ALWAYS sent to Europe for part of their training; the education is considered better and the U.S. families want to renew their affiliation with the European forebears.

Germany, France, and the UK form a triumvirate that rules in the European cult. The USSR is considered important, and has the strongest military groups. The USSR has been promised fourth position in the New World Order, BEFORE the role the U.S. would have, because the USSR has been more helpful and cooperative over the years with furthering the agenda.

The descendants of the former ruling families there are also involved in the occult leadership, along with the newer ones. There is no Marxism in the cult. China will be ranked after the USSR, then the U.S.. But a lot of the current U.S. leadership will be in Europe when the change occurs, and many have homes there. They will be "changing nationalities" overnight, as it were. This is the little that I do remember. Wish I had been a better student of this stuff, but I was too busy trying to stay alive when I was in it.

Part 13 - The UN or 'Supreme World Council' -

Q: Svali, what role does and will the UN play in the future and how do you see this unfolding? What is their
timeline?

A: The UN was created early in this century in order to help overcome one of the biggest barriers to a one world
government necessary, if there is to be a military rule and dictatorship by the Illuminists. That barrier is the one of
nationalism, or pride in one's country. This is why it was NOT a popular concept when first introduced, it took years
of country bashing in the media and the destruction of any sense of national pride by a (not so subtle) media campaign
over the years.

It's agenda? It is set up as a shadow, or forerunner, of the Supreme World Council that will represent every nation.
Every ambassador to the UN has either done something to curry Illuminati favor and been rewarded, or is a political
figurehead chosen to make the organization "look good".

The Illuminati and governmental leaders chose to create the UN early in the past century, and worked hard and
against opposition to put it in place (FDR was their man in America who helped the American public accept it). Both
he and Eleanor were staunch Illuminists. So is Shirley Temple Black. In fact, most of our presidents since the
beginning of the past century have been either Illuminists, or agreed by oath to support their goals, in return for
campaign funds and support. I believe it is impossible to win a presidential election in our country today without
their backing. The Kennedy family were punished because they tried to disobey them. They were free thinkers, and too
hard to "control".

The UN has a stated goal of world peace, and wants to incorporate under its fold military and peace-keeping
functions. But in reality, giving this role to the UN weakens the individual military strength of nations, and encourages
them to lean more and more on an external organization, making them less able to resist when the takeover occurs.

I was told that by the year 2020, that the New Order would be openly revealed, BUT that may have been cult
propaganda, and they are always changing dates. I personally believe that by the mid of this century, they will
reveal themselves. This is just my opinion, though.

Q: What are the plans of the Illuminati for the Middle East and how will it affect the rest of the world? Will
we see WWIII?

A: The conflict in the middle east is only to the advantage of the Illuminists. They HATE Israel, and hope one day to
see it destroyed, and are biding their time. One of the olive branches offered by the UN when it takes over is that they
will prevent war in the middle east, and this will be greeted with joy by many.

At the same time, the Illuminati covertly supply guns and funds to BOTH sides to keep the conflict fueled. They are
very duplicitous people. They used to funnel guns through the USSR to Palestine, for example, in the name of
promoting "friendliness" between the USSR and this state and other Arab nations. Then, the US Illuminists would help
funnel guns to Israel, for the same reason.

These people love the game of chess, and see warfare between nations as creating an order out of chaos. The
USSR is going to get stronger again. It has too strong a military both openly, and covertly (ALL Illuminati military
trainers have visited Russia to learn from them) to sit quietly and quiescently to the side. In the NWO, they will
be stronger than us.

Want to hear the end of the world scenario the Illuminati taught me? It was cult propaganda, but this is how they
believed the New Order would be ushered in: There will be continued conflict in the mid-east, with a
severe threat of nuclear war being the culmination of these hostilities.
An economic collapse that will devastate the economy of the US and Europe, much like the great depression.

One reason that our economy continues limping along is the artificial supports that the Federal Reserve had given it,
manipulating interest rates, etc. But one day, this won't work (or this leverage will be withdrawn on purpose) and
the next great depression will hit. The government will call in its bonds and loans, and credit card debts will be called
in. There will be massive bankruptcies nationwide. Europe will stabilize first, and Germany, France and England
(surprise) will have the strongest economies, and will institute through the UN an international currency. Japan
will also pull out, although their economy will be weakened.

Peacekeeping forces will be sent out by the UN and local bases to prevent riots. The leaders will reveal themselves,
and people will be asked to make a pledge of loyalty during a time of chaos and financial devastation.

Doesn't sound pleasant, does it? I don't know the exact time frame for all of this, and wouldn't want to even guess. The
good news is that if a person is debt-free, owes nothing to the government or credit debt, and can live self
sufficiently, they may do better than other. I would invest in gold, not stocks, if I had the income. Gold will once again
be the world standard, and dollars will be pretty useless (remember after the Civil War? Our money will be worth
about what confederate money was after the collapse).

All this said, it could just be cult propaganda taught to me and others to frighten us. It may be that none of this will
happen. I sincerely hope not. I also strongly believe that God is able to stay the hand of the wicked, and to take care
of our nation and others, if we turn to Him.

Q: Overall, would you say the Illuminati are racist? I am asking this because their agenda seems to be very
white supremist throughout history.

The Illuminati are racist, and have a very "aryan" outlook. They believe strongly in the rule of the "pure" and
"intelligent" by their definitions, and in their ceremonies, there will occasionally be minorities killed in ceremonies.

They are trying to breed a "genetically superior" race to rule, with their children and descendants. They are also
followers of Plato's Republic, and believe that they will be the ones to usher in this "Utopian" rule with the NWO in
their opinion. In their Utopia, the intelligentsia will rule, and the sheep like masses will follow their leaders (that is
their view of the world; that the occult leaders are "enlightened' and intelligent, while the average person is a
"sheep" to be led by the nose).

Q: Why would they allow a black leader to head the UN?

A: Because it is a temporarily politically expedient thing for them to do. They are liars, and will hold out a hand to a
popular political figure, throwing them a figurehead role in one of their organizations, to make the UN look better, and
as a group that promotes "interracial harmony" and "unity" and "peace".

The real leaders would never publicly allow their real feelings to show. The UN is a preparation, but it is not the
real power in the world, and will be relatively unimportant when the NWO comes into being. The real councils will
then step forward. But as a means of getting the general public to accept the idea of a "global community" and the
"one world community" the UN is a stepping stone in their working towards the NWO.

Q: Do they have a population control agenda? I'm thinking specially in view of the AIDS plague in Africa.
Could this be engineered by them?

A: I have heard reports that certain deadly viruses have been engineered by the Illuminati, but I doubt that HIV was.
Why? Because so many of the leadership of the Illuminati are blatantly pedophilic and homosexual, the virus is
rampant in parts of the US, and they would be endangering themselves as well. Most of the leadership that I knew
were homosexuals in their night personas (myself included) and it was accepted as a lifestyle in that setting,
and encouraged.

Also, the viruses that they are developing are ones that they are also engineering antidotes to, to protect leadership
from the virus if an epidemic breaks out. I do know that there is some working on biological weapons by members
of this group as a method of threatening population bases that don't embrace the "New Order" when revealed, this
was discussed occasionally in leadership meetings. What state it is at at this time, I couldn't say, since it has been
several years since I was active in the group.