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Presence (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

Disciplines

Definition

Presence is the Discipline of supernatural charisma and magnetism, allowing vampires to command attention, inspire emotions, and manipulate social situations. It grants incredible social power, from inspiring awe to instilling fear. Presence is one of the most versatile Disciplines, useful in both social and combat situations. Vampires with Presence can entrance mortals, inspire loyalty, command respect, and manipulate emotions. At higher levels, Presence allows vampires to control crowds, inspire fanatical devotion, and cause enemies to flee in terror.

How it works

**Clans with Presence**: Brujah, Ministry, Ravnos, Toreador, Ventrue **Basic Powers**: - **Level 1**: Add Presence dice to Social rolls, command attention - **Level 2**: Inspire specific emotions (awe, fear, desire) - **Level 3**: Entrance mortals, making them suggestible - **Level 4**: Control crowds, inspire fanatical devotion - **Level 5**: Cause enemies to flee in terror or fall in love **Rouse Checks**: Using Presence powers typically requires Rouse checks, which can increase Hunger.

Tips

**Best For**: Social characters, leaders, manipulators, characters who want to control situations without violence. **Synergies**: Presence pairs excellently with Dominate for complete social control. It also works well with Auspex for reading emotions and Celerity for dramatic entrances. Consider investing in Charisma, Manipulation, Performance, and Persuasion skills. **Character Concepts**: Leader, cult leader, socialite, performer, politician, seducer, influencer.

Frequently asked questions

How does Presence work in social situations?

Presence allows you to command attention, inspire emotions, and manipulate social situations. You can make people feel awe, fear, desire, or loyalty toward you.

Can Presence be used in combat?

Yes! Presence can cause enemies to flee in terror, make opponents hesitate, or inspire allies to fight harder. It's versatile in both social and combat situations.

What clans have Presence as an in-clan Discipline?

Brujah, Ministry, Ravnos, Toreador, and Ventrue have Presence as an in-clan Discipline, meaning they learn it at a discount. Other clans can learn it, but it costs more XP.

How does Presence differ from Dominate?

Presence manipulates emotions and inspires feelings, while Dominate directly controls actions and thoughts. Presence is more subtle and long-lasting, while Dominate is more direct and immediate.