Custom Sabbat Ritae
Some chronicles allow for their players to develop customized powers for their characters. The following is a compilation of player created custom content in OWBN. At this time, custom content that is created and/or used by vampire PC's is required to be listed.
"What shadow was bound may be unbound - if the soul proves itself brighter."
Overview: This rite is performed only after:
The branded Inquisitor has fulfilled their period of silence or exile or other punishment.
They have returned to service or been recalled by the Watch.
They have undergone a final judgment, either through penance, ordeal, or Inquisitorial tribunal.
The rite must be approved by a Watch Inquisitor or The Grand Inquisitor.
WARNING: If the penitent is found unworthy during the ritae (via failed challenge, poor confession, or loss of composure), the Sigil is not removed — and the Watch may declare Final Death or impose further penance.
Requirements:
The branded must return voluntarily to face the Watch.
At least seven Witnesses of the Inquisition must be present.
The original Sigil stone or mark must be present (if possible), to symbolically "unbind" what was bound.
The Ritae:
Purification by Blood and Ash: The branded is ritually bathed in sacramental vitae, ashes of the Inquisition’s dead, and saltwater blessed by True Faith (or with an Iron Reliquary).
Recitation of the Offense: The branded must kneel before the Watch Inquisitor and recite their original offense aloud — word for word, with no lies or omissions. They must then speak how they atoned, and what they have learned.
Ordeal of Stillness: The branded must endure a silent test:
Bound in shadow (Obtenebration or magical binding).
Surrounded by Auspex-wielding Inquisitors who observe their aura for deceit, corruption, or infernal residue.
Duration: One full hour (or one scene in game).
Any failure of composure, attempt to lie, or aura corruption halts the rite.
Cleansing Flame and Shadow: If the branded passes, the Watch Inquisitor summons a consecrated blade or relic, held in shadow. They say: "The sin was named. The shadow held it. Now let the fire claim it." The Sigil is cut, burned, or mystically unraveled — physically and spiritually removed. The pain is as intense as branding, and the branded must scream to symbolize the letting go of pride.
Mark of Renewal: Once the Sigil is gone, the Watch places a new mark:
A scar in the shape of a broken circle, symbolizing a wound closed but not forgotten. Not mystical, just symbolic — a permanent reminder.
The Watch Inquisitor ends the rite: "This one was judged. This one bore the mark. This one has stood, not above the shadow — but within it, and survived. Let them rise anew — scarred, but unshackled."