Presas de Ouro
Golden Fangs
No other group of shen in Macau contest each other more dangerously than the Kuei-jin and Cainites. Since the arrival of European colonists, Cainites have dwelled in Macau, drawn to the promise of wealth, glory, and fresh blood. Unfortunately, when they arrived they discovered that Kindred already existed here, these arrogant Gui Ren that claim no heritage from Caine and, indeed, have the audacity to mock the Kindred’s pride in descent from the “First Murderer”.
But the Cainites soon proved to the Wan Kuei what a lack of rigid moral code could mean in war. They quickly overpowered several bases of importance and entrenched themselves permanently. Of course, from the Wan Kuei’s point-of-view, the Kin-jin don’t lack a rigid moral code. They lack morality altogether. This is only as much a strength as the akuma find strength in their own vile, spineless cruelty and selfishness. And to the Wan Kuei, there is no difference. Kin-jin, akuma, whatever. Enemies.
With the departure of colonial governance, the Kin-jin know their time of domination in Macau is over. The Quincunx has reasserted itself in the Flame Court’s domains. Macau’s long-beleagured Court of the Golden Flare has been reinforced. The Cainites are pushed into their entrenched Elysiums and hiding holes. Many have left altogether, seeking easier prey that their gutless ambitions can more readily overcome.
Special Events
Special events are annual (or more frequent) holidays or special ritual days that the main group or groups observe as a whole community. Attendance and participation are often expected of all members, and sometimes required.
Feast of Hungry Ghosts
The Feast of Hungry Ghosts is held in mid-August annually. During this time, food offerings and joss paper is burnt, but not at the graves and shrines of ancestors. Instead, mortals leave such offerings at crossroads. It’s thought this helps lost spirits break from Hell and leave them free to wander the Middle Kingdom for a lunar month, hopefully escaping their fate and moving onto their next life. Grand operas that portray dramatic historical events are often watched at night, especially by the affluent and classically-schooled citizens. Gui Ren honor this holiday because of a pact with the Kingdom of Jade. A special and local Kuei-jin Rite blesses the offerings and actually makes them act as beacons to kuei, facilitating the Farmers’ efforts to catch and render them harmless.
“Our treasure, our wealth, and our future are found not in some casino or victory over some enemy, but by the carriage of our souls in the caress of the sea breeze.”
-- Wong Pui Ham, Ancestor of the Court of the Golden Flare
