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==Canon Information==
{{canon}}
{{canon}}
==Canon Information==
 
Descended from [[jewel merchant]]s, the [[Graben Family]] are the effective [[ruler]]s of [[Graben Island]] (albeit distant ones), owning the (unclaimed) [[land]] and much of the [[wealth]] of that island.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 44">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 44</ref> They are also a family of [[Lebendtod]], having originally been [[murdered]] and [[reanimated]] by [[Meredoth]] (see below). Four generations of the long-lived Grabens all reside in the [[Graben Family Estate|on a single family estate]].<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 44">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 44</ref>
Descended from [[jewel merchant]]s, the [[Graben Family]] are the effective [[ruler]]s of [[Graben Island]] (albeit distant ones), owning the (unclaimed) [[land]] and much of the [[wealth]] of that island.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 44">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 44</ref> They are also a family of [[Lebendtod]], having originally been [[murdered]] and [[reanimated]] by [[Meredoth]] (see below). Four generations of the long-lived Grabens all reside in the [[Graben Family Estate|on a single family estate]].<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 44">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 44</ref> The older generations never make appearances in town, with the third generation Graben Family handling transactions as of [[737 BC]]<ref>[[Ship of Horror]] p. 50-51</ref>.


The Graben Family are [[infamous]] among the people of Graben Island, though [[Grabenite]]s are reluctant to speak ill of the Family. Although the Grabens seen ordinary, it is fortunate that the family is fairly withdrawn. Those whom cozy up to the Family usually meet with unfortunate and [[mysterious]] fates. Only the youngest adult generation and their offspring is seen with any regularity in [[the Village of Graben]], and none ever visit [[Seeheim]] or [[Kirchenheim]].<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 44">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 44</ref>
The Graben Family are [[infamous]] among the people of Graben Island, though [[Grabenite]]s are reluctant to speak ill of the Family. Although the Grabens seen ordinary, it is fortunate that the family is fairly withdrawn. Those whom cozy up to the Family usually meet with unfortunate and [[mysterious]] fates. Only the youngest adult generation and their offspring is seen with any regularity in [[the Village of Graben]], and none ever visit [[Seeheim]] or [[Kirchenheim]].<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 44">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 44</ref>


The Grabens are the first [[settler]]s of Graben Island. They alone have the power to grant land to newcomers. They are not necessarily opposed to doing so, but they never grant land near their estate.<ref name="Ships of Horror p.50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p.50</ref> Although the family may seem hospitable, there is a dark side beneath their apparent generosity. The Graben Family serve as [[grave robber]]s to gather subjects for [[Meredoth]]'s [[experiment]]s.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 49-50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 49-50</ref> [[Colin Graben]] usually speaks with any [[foreigner]]s who wish to visit with the Grabens.<ref name="Ships of Horror p.52">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p.52</ref>
The Grabens are the first [[settler]]s of Graben Island. They alone have the power to grant land to newcomers. They are not necessarily opposed to doing so, but they never grant land near their estate.<ref name="Ships of Horror p.50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p.50</ref> Although the family may seem hospitable, there is a dark side beneath their apparent generosity. The Graben Family serve as [[grave robber]]s to gather subjects for [[Meredoth]]'s [[experiment]]s.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 49-50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 49-50</ref> [[Colin Graben]] usually speaks with any [[foreigner]]s who wish to visit with the Grabens.<ref name="Ship of Horror p.52">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p.52</ref>


More [[canon]] information on the Graben Family can be found in the "Ship of Horror" module. {{Spec|Although it is likely that many of their number might have been dispatched in that module,}}, authors of later sources have described the family as still being in power in later sources.
More [[canon]] information on the Graben Family can be found in the "Ship of Horror" module. {{Spec|Although it is likely that many of their number might have been dispatched in that module,}} authors of later sources have described the family as still being in power.


===The Graben Family and Meredoth===
===The Graben Family and Meredoth===
Following the formation of [[Nebligtode]], Meredoth surveyed his domain and discovered the Graben Family. After Meredoth developed a way of making them into the properly subservient [[undead]], Meredoth [[poisoned]] them all in [[The Graben Family Massacre|in a horrible act of mass murder]]. He then commanded them to rule the island on his behalf and to ensure a chain of [[cadaver]]s continually reached [[Todstein]].<ref name="Ships of Horror p.52">[[Ship of Horror (Module]] p.52</ref>
Following the formation of [[Nebligtode]], Meredoth surveyed his domain and discovered the Graben Family. After Meredoth developed a way of making them into the properly subservient [[undead]], Meredoth [[poisoned]] them all in [[The Graben Family Massacre|in a horrible act of mass murder]]. He then commanded them to rule the island on his behalf and to ensure a chain of [[cadaver]]s continually reached [[Todstein]].<ref name="Ship of Horror p.52">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p.52</ref>


==Noncanon Information==
==Noncanon Information==
{{netbook}}
{{netbook}}
===Family History===
===Family History===
In the [[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]], the Graben's Family's dark, [[mysterious]] [[history]] (and [[false history]]) goes back well before Meredoth's interference. From the beginning, the [[elitist]] Grabens always kept themselves apart from the rest of Grabenite society. [[Arranged marriages]] with [[foreigner]]s has always been the standard practice for matrimony within the Graben family household. Their demanding and reclusive eccentricity has gone so far as to demand any spouse "marrying in" adopt the Graben surname, spawning all sorts of [[rumor]]s.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref>  
In the [[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]], the Graben's Family's dark, [[mysterious]] [[history]] (and [[false history]]) goes back well before Meredoth's interference. From the beginning, the [[elitist]] Grabens always kept themselves apart from the rest of Grabenite society. [[Arranged marriages]] with [[foreigner]]s has always been the standard practice for matrimony within the Graben family household. Their demanding and reclusive eccentricity has gone so far as to demand any spouse "marrying in" adopt the Graben surname, spawning all sorts of [[rumor]]s.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref>  
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One [[folktale]] speaks of the family's [[founder]], [[Efraim Graben]] was no one of special status but rather a [[fraud]], a [[forger]], and a [[thief]] who fabricated the Graben name from whole cloth.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref>. As it happens, [[Efraim Graben Was a Fraud]] is largely true (as far as false history goes). In [[580 BC]], the [[wealthy]] [[jewel thief]] arrived to the island and built [[Graben Manor]]. In [[610 BC]], the family now known as the Grabens adopted the island name for their own as they settled the land full time.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref> To his credit (at least according to how he is remembered), Efraim is remembered for [[Efraim's Agreement|Efraim's pact]] with some [[Anatal]] [[refugee]]s (forebears of the current [[Grabenite]]s), which provided the latter with hospitality, land, and sustenance in return for recognition of the Graben clan's seniority over the island.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 172">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 172</ref>
One [[folktale]] speaks of the family's [[founder]], [[Efraim Graben]] was no one of special status but rather a [[fraud]], a [[forger]], and a [[thief]] who fabricated the Graben name from whole cloth.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref>. As it happens, [[Efraim Graben Was a Fraud]] is largely true (as far as false history goes). In [[580 BC]], the [[wealthy]] [[jewel thief]] arrived to the island and built [[Graben Manor]]. In [[610 BC]], the family now known as the Grabens adopted the island name for their own as they settled the land full time.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref> To his credit (at least according to how he is remembered), Efraim is remembered for [[Efraim's Agreement|Efraim's pact]] with some [[Anatal]] [[refugee]]s (forebears of the current [[Grabenite]]s), which provided the latter with hospitality, land, and sustenance in return for recognition of the Graben clan's seniority over the island.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 172">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 172</ref>


More recently, one Graben in particular has shown a trend towards roguishness. [[Colin Graben]], the Graben Family's current [[patriarch]] and [[emissary]], was once merely a vice-ridden [[hedonist]] and [[exploiter]] of the Grabenite people. In [[672 BC]], Colin's [[criminal]] activities threatened his ascension to power over the clan. He arranged the deaths of three of his [[victim]]s, but his uncle [[Danar Graben]] investigated the [[killing]]s. To conceal his dirty deeds once again, Colin [[murdered]] both Danar and his wife [[Bryanna Graben]] and made it seem like a [[carriage]] accident.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 360">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 360</ref>   
More recently, one Graben in particular has shown a trend towards roguishness. [[Colin Graben]], the Graben Family's current [[patriarch]] and [[emissary]], was once merely a vice-ridden [[hedonist]] and [[exploiter]] of the Grabenite people. In [[672 BC]], Colin's [[criminal]] activities threatened his ascension to power over the clan. He arranged the deaths of three of his [[victim]]s, but his uncle [[Danar Graben]] investigated the [[killing]]s. To conceal his dirty deeds once again, Colin [[murdered]] both Danar and his wife [[Brynna Graben]] and made it seem like a [[carriage]] accident.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 360">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 360</ref>   


Colin's [[treachery]] would come back to haunt him when he sold several of the Graben family's [[gemstone]]s to pay off [[debt]]s. These gems would eventually attract the attention of Meredoth, whom proceeded to kill and then reanimate the Grabens in the [[672 BC]] [[Graben Family Massacre]].<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 360">[[Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer]] p. 360</ref> Only the youngest of [[child|infant]]s survived- those too young to be useful to Meredoth and to eat the [[poison]]. These children were later raised with no knowledge of their ancestors' transformations into [[undeath]]- or least long enough to keep the Graben Family line going for each generation.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref>
Colin's [[treachery]] would come back to haunt him when he sold several of the Graben family's [[gemstone]]s to pay off [[debt]]s. These gems would eventually attract the attention of Meredoth, whom proceeded to kill and then reanimate the Grabens in the [[672 BC]] [[Graben Family Massacre]].<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 360">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 360</ref> Only the youngest of [[child|infant]]s survived- those too young to be useful to Meredoth and to eat the [[poison]]. These children were later raised with no knowledge of their ancestors' transformations into [[undeath]]- or least long enough to keep the Graben Family line going for each generation.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref>


Since being transformed into [[lebendtod]] in 672, the elder Graben family have served Meredoth as his [[lebendtod]] [[agent]]s and [[cadaver]] collectors.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref> In [[737 BC]], [[Meredoth Is Slain|Meredoth was slain]], along with many of the undead Grabens, and Graben Manor was [[razed]] to the ground. Colin survived, and Meredoth's [[clone]] reanimated, but both took the debacle as a rude awakening. The family has become more subtle, and they rebuilt the Manor. Colin Graben spread [[slander]] and [[lie]]s that the [[adventurer]]s responsible were bloodthirsty [[madmen]], thus saving his family's social prestige.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 155">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 155</ref>
Since being transformed into [[lebendtod]] in 672, the elder Graben family have served Meredoth as his [[lebendtod]] [[agent]]s and [[cadaver]] collectors.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 379">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 379</ref> In [[737 BC]], [[Meredoth Is Slain|Meredoth was slain]], along with many of the undead Grabens, and Graben Manor was [[razed]] to the ground. Colin survived, and Meredoth's [[clone]] reanimated, but both took the debacle as a rude awakening. The family has become more subtle, and they rebuilt the Manor. Colin Graben spread [[slander]] and [[lie]]s that the [[adventurer]]s responsible were bloodthirsty [[madmen]], thus saving his family's social prestige.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 155">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 155</ref>
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In the public eye, Colin's will is thought to be made through his appointed emissary, [[Josiah Graben]]. Josiah rebuilt the family's prominence in now prospering economy of [[Graben Island]] and [[Graben-town]].<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 177">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 177</ref> In reality, Josiah is merely an [[alias]] for the undead Colin, whom remains the patriarch of the Graben Family.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 352">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 352</ref>
In the public eye, Colin's will is thought to be made through his appointed emissary, [[Josiah Graben]]. Josiah rebuilt the family's prominence in now prospering economy of [[Graben Island]] and [[Graben-town]].<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 177">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 177</ref> In reality, Josiah is merely an [[alias]] for the undead Colin, whom remains the patriarch of the Graben Family.<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 352">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 352</ref>


Because of Efraim's agreement, the Graben clan retains ownership over the land of Graben (but not [[Knammen Island]] or the [[Schlammholme Iselets]]) not inhabited by a family of 5 generations or less. Although some families have kept their land for that long, as they have expanded, they have fallen under the influence of the Grabens as they petition the famaily for more land. The Graben's cannot charge their tenants for the land nor force them off, but they can deny the current inhabitants the ability to sell the land or grant it as [[inheritance]].<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 177-8">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 177-178</ref>
Because of Efraim's agreement, the Graben clan retains ownership over the land of Graben (but not [[Knammen Island]] or the [[Schlammholme Islets]]) not inhabited by a family of 5 generations or less. Although some families have kept their land for that long, as they have expanded, they have fallen under the influence of the Grabens as they petition the family for more land. The Grabens cannot charge their tenants for the land nor force them off, but they can deny the current inhabitants the ability to sell the land or grant it as [[inheritance]].<ref name="Nocturnal Seas Gazetteer p. 177-8">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 177-178</ref>


==Chronology==
==Chronology==
(Everything below is {{netbook-small}} only unless otherwise specified.)
(Everything below is {{netbook-small}} unless otherwise specified.)


*{{netbook-small}}Mid 300s BC [[False History]] [[Svidi Full-Sails]] of the[[Anatal]] leads his tribe to colonize [[Graben Island]], displacing the resident monastic community at the [[Black Chapel]]. [[The nuckalavee]] is [[conjured]] by the expelled clergy, then geas-bound and sent into hibernation by the Anatal. To placate malign powers such as it, the Anatal begin sacrificing condemned humans, creating [[the Strangled]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}Mid 300s BC [[False History]] [[Svidi Full-Sails]] of the [[Anatal]] leads his tribe to colonize [[Graben Island]], displacing the resident monastic community at the [[Black Chapel]]. [[The nuckalavee]] is [[conjured]] by the expelled clergy, then geas-bound and sent into hibernation by the Anatal. To placate malign powers such as it, the Anatal begin sacrificing condemned humans, creating [[the Strangled]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>


*{{netbook-small}}Mid 400s BC [[False History]] Svidi's colony is wiped out by a [[plague]], leaving behind ruins and the Island's ancient runestones. [[The nuckalavee]] remains quiescent.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}Mid 400s BC [[False History]] Svidi's colony is wiped out by a [[plague]], leaving behind ruins and the Island's ancient runestones. [[The nuckalavee]] remains quiescent.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>


*{{netbook-small}}[[580 BC]] [[False History]] [[Graben Manor]] is built on [[Svidi Full-Saills]]'s former island by a [[Efraim Graben]], a [[wealthy]] ][jewel-thief]] from the south.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}[[580 BC]] [[False History]] [[Graben Manor]] is built on [[Svidi Full-Sails]]'s former island by [[Efraim Graben]], a [[wealthy]] [[jewel-thief]] from the south.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>


*{{canon-small}}[[586 BC]] [[False History]] A family of caretakers for the [[livestock]] of the [[Graben Family Estate]] is hired on. This family will stay with the Graben Family for at least the next 150 years.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 50</ref> {{netbook-small}}Most of the [[servant]]s of the Graben family will later die in the [[737 Massacre]]. It is not known what percentage of the servants scaped.
*{{canon-small}}[[586 BC]] [[False History]] A family of caretakers for the [[livestock]] of the [[Graben Family Estate]] is hired on. This family will stay with the Graben Family for at least the next 150 years.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 50</ref> {{netbook-small}}Most of the [[servant]]s of the Graben family will later die in the [[737 Massacre]]. It is not known what percentage of the servants escaped.


*{{netbook-small}}[[610 BC]] [[False History]] The [[Graben Family]] moves onto the Island full-time, adopting the island's name for their own.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}[[610 BC]] [[False History]] The [[Graben Family]] moves onto the Island full-time, adopting the island's name for their own.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 387</ref>
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*{{netbook-small}}[[660 BC]] In the [[Transpossession Temptation]] [[dread possibility]], [[Lydia Graben]] tells her son, [[Colin Graben]], stories about [[the Apparatus]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 368">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 368</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}[[660 BC]] In the [[Transpossession Temptation]] [[dread possibility]], [[Lydia Graben]] tells her son, [[Colin Graben]], stories about [[the Apparatus]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 368">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 368</ref>


*{{{netbook-small}}[[672 BC]] [[The Graben Family Massacre]] In [[Nebligtode]], [[Colin Graben]] murders [[Danar Graben]] and [[Bryanna Graben]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 389">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 389</ref> [[Curse-Bound|Bryanna possibly curses Colin]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 362">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 362</ref> Regardless, [[Meredoth]] massacres him along with the rest of the [[Graben Family]]. Meredoth reanimates the lot of them as [[lebendtod]] and commands them to gather subjects for his vile experiments.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 389">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 389</ref>
*{{{netbook-small}}[[672 BC]] [[The Graben Family Massacre]] In [[Nebligtode]], [[Colin Graben]] murders [[Danar Graben]] and [[Brynna Graben]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 389">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 389</ref> [[Curse-Bound|Brynna possibly curses Colin]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 362">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 362</ref> Regardless, [[Meredoth]] massacres him along with the rest of the [[Graben Family]]. Meredoth reanimates the lot of them as [[lebendtod]] and commands them to gather subjects for his vile experiments.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 389">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 389</ref>


*{{netbook-small}}[[675 BC]] [[Ezekiel Graben]] lays claim the [[Graben Family Tombs]] on [[Todstein]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 200">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 200</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}[[675 BC]] [[Ezekiel Graben]] lays claim to the [[Graben Family Tombs]] on [[Todstein]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 200">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 200</ref>


*{{netbook-small}}[[708 BC]] [[Matthais Graben]] loses his (un)life in a shipwreck, leaving [[Colin Graben]] as acting head of the Graben family.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 390">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 390</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}[[708 BC]] [[Matthias Graben]] loses his (un)life in a shipwreck, leaving [[Colin Graben]] as acting head of the Graben family.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 390">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 390</ref>


*{{canon-small}}[[716 BC]] On this year or a few years prior, the spouses of [[Ezekiel Graben]] and [[Marietta Graben]] perish.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 50</ref>
*{{canon-small}}[[716 BC]] On this year or a few years prior, the spouses of [[Ezekiel Graben]] and [[Marietta Graben]] perish.<ref name="Ship of Horror (Module) p. 50">[[Ship of Horror (Module)]] p. 50</ref>
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*{{netbook-small}}[[751 BC]] Colin Graben appoints "[[Josiah Graben]]", his alleged grandson, as his proxy in [[Graben-town]], allowing him to take a more active hand in the port's economic transformation from backwater to boomtown.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 392">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 392</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}[[751 BC]] Colin Graben appoints "[[Josiah Graben]]", his alleged grandson, as his proxy in [[Graben-town]], allowing him to take a more active hand in the port's economic transformation from backwater to boomtown.<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 392">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 392</ref>


*{{netbook-small}}[[760 BC]] or shortly before ([[Transposession Temptation]] [[Dread Possibility]]] Colin Graben finds a cache of notes in [[Egertus]]. The notes mention [[the Apparatus]] as sought by [[Malken|a man known only as "M"]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 368">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 368</ref>
*{{netbook-small}}[[760 BC]] or shortly before ([[Transpossession Temptation]] [[Dread Possibility]]) Colin Graben finds a cache of notes in [[Egertus]]. The notes mention [[the Apparatus]] as sought by [[Malken|a man known only as "M"]].<ref name="Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 368">[[Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer]] p. 368</ref>
 
{{ref}}


[[Category:family]]
[[Category:family]]

Latest revision as of 18:38, 29 May 2025

Canon Information

Descended from jewel merchants, the Graben Family are the effective rulers of Graben Island (albeit distant ones), owning the (unclaimed) land and much of the wealth of that island.[1] They are also a family of Lebendtod, having originally been murdered and reanimated by Meredoth (see below). Four generations of the long-lived Grabens all reside in the on a single family estate.[1] The older generations never make appearances in town, with the third generation Graben Family handling transactions as of 737 BC[2].

The Graben Family are infamous among the people of Graben Island, though Grabenites are reluctant to speak ill of the Family. Although the Grabens seen ordinary, it is fortunate that the family is fairly withdrawn. Those whom cozy up to the Family usually meet with unfortunate and mysterious fates. Only the youngest adult generation and their offspring is seen with any regularity in the Village of Graben, and none ever visit Seeheim or Kirchenheim.[1]

The Grabens are the first settlers of Graben Island. They alone have the power to grant land to newcomers. They are not necessarily opposed to doing so, but they never grant land near their estate.[3] Although the family may seem hospitable, there is a dark side beneath their apparent generosity. The Graben Family serve as grave robbers to gather subjects for Meredoth's experiments.[4] Colin Graben usually speaks with any foreigners who wish to visit with the Grabens.[5]

More canon information on the Graben Family can be found in the "Ship of Horror" module. Although it is likely that many of their number might have been dispatched in that module, authors of later sources have described the family as still being in power.

The Graben Family and Meredoth

Following the formation of Nebligtode, Meredoth surveyed his domain and discovered the Graben Family. After Meredoth developed a way of making them into the properly subservient undead, Meredoth poisoned them all in in a horrible act of mass murder. He then commanded them to rule the island on his behalf and to ensure a chain of cadavers continually reached Todstein.[5]

Noncanon Information

Family History

In the Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer, the Graben's Family's dark, mysterious history (and false history) goes back well before Meredoth's interference. From the beginning, the elitist Grabens always kept themselves apart from the rest of Grabenite society. Arranged marriages with foreigners has always been the standard practice for matrimony within the Graben family household. Their demanding and reclusive eccentricity has gone so far as to demand any spouse "marrying in" adopt the Graben surname, spawning all sorts of rumors.[6]

One folktale speaks of the family's founder, Efraim Graben was no one of special status but rather a fraud, a forger, and a thief who fabricated the Graben name from whole cloth.[6]. As it happens, Efraim Graben Was a Fraud is largely true (as far as false history goes). In 580 BC, the wealthy jewel thief arrived to the island and built Graben Manor. In 610 BC, the family now known as the Grabens adopted the island name for their own as they settled the land full time.[7] To his credit (at least according to how he is remembered), Efraim is remembered for Efraim's pact with some Anatal refugees (forebears of the current Grabenites), which provided the latter with hospitality, land, and sustenance in return for recognition of the Graben clan's seniority over the island.[8]

More recently, one Graben in particular has shown a trend towards roguishness. Colin Graben, the Graben Family's current patriarch and emissary, was once merely a vice-ridden hedonist and exploiter of the Grabenite people. In 672 BC, Colin's criminal activities threatened his ascension to power over the clan. He arranged the deaths of three of his victims, but his uncle Danar Graben investigated the killings. To conceal his dirty deeds once again, Colin murdered both Danar and his wife Brynna Graben and made it seem like a carriage accident.[9]

Colin's treachery would come back to haunt him when he sold several of the Graben family's gemstones to pay off debts. These gems would eventually attract the attention of Meredoth, whom proceeded to kill and then reanimate the Grabens in the 672 BC Graben Family Massacre.[9] Only the youngest of infants survived- those too young to be useful to Meredoth and to eat the poison. These children were later raised with no knowledge of their ancestors' transformations into undeath- or least long enough to keep the Graben Family line going for each generation.[6]

Since being transformed into lebendtod in 672, the elder Graben family have served Meredoth as his lebendtod agents and cadaver collectors.[6] In 737 BC, Meredoth was slain, along with many of the undead Grabens, and Graben Manor was razed to the ground. Colin survived, and Meredoth's clone reanimated, but both took the debacle as a rude awakening. The family has become more subtle, and they rebuilt the Manor. Colin Graben spread slander and lies that the adventurers responsible were bloodthirsty madmen, thus saving his family's social prestige.[10]

The Grabens Today

In the public eye, Colin's will is thought to be made through his appointed emissary, Josiah Graben. Josiah rebuilt the family's prominence in now prospering economy of Graben Island and Graben-town.[11] In reality, Josiah is merely an alias for the undead Colin, whom remains the patriarch of the Graben Family.[12]

Because of Efraim's agreement, the Graben clan retains ownership over the land of Graben (but not Knammen Island or the Schlammholme Islets) not inhabited by a family of 5 generations or less. Although some families have kept their land for that long, as they have expanded, they have fallen under the influence of the Grabens as they petition the family for more land. The Grabens cannot charge their tenants for the land nor force them off, but they can deny the current inhabitants the ability to sell the land or grant it as inheritance.[13]

Chronology

(Everything below is unless otherwise specified.)

  • 630 BC False History The Anatal, ancestors of the Grabenite villagers arrive on Graben Island, as refugees fleeing the Óvinur Ódn (= "enemy storm") besetting the "North Wild" (March). Graben-town is founded (August). Settlers are initially led by clerics, with assemblies filling an advisory role.[16]
  • 737 BC Colin Graben pulls himself together from various scattered pieces of his body and becomes a Swarm-Shifter.[30] In a fit of rage against Meredoth after temporarily regaining his free will, Colin Graben murders his cousin, Olsain Graben[31]
  • Meredoth's clone animates, and he regains control over his lebendtod minions, including Colin Graben. Colin retains the ability to hate Meredoth and the ability to take actions on his own, but he still must follow the will of Meredoth.[32]
  • 751 BC Colin Graben appoints "Josiah Graben", his alleged grandson, as his proxy in Graben-town, allowing him to take a more active hand in the port's economic transformation from backwater to boomtown.[33]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Ship of Horror (Module) p. 44
  2. ↑ Ship of Horror p. 50-51
  3. ↑ Ship of Horror (Module) p.50
  4. ↑ Ship of Horror (Module) p. 49-50
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Ship of Horror (Module) p.52
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 379
  7. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387
  8. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 172
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 360
  10. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 155
  11. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 177
  12. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 352
  13. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 177-178
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 387
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 15.2 Ship of Horror (Module) p. 50
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 388
  17. ↑ Domains of Dread, p. 16
  18. ↑ Domains of Dread p. 80
  19. ↑ Ship of Horror p.54
  20. ↑ Ship of Horror p.43
  21. ↑ Domains of Dread p.79-80
  22. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 381
  23. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 359
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 368
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 389
  26. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 362
  27. ↑ 27.0 27.1 Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 200
  28. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 390
  29. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 391
  30. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 355, 363
  31. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 363-364
  32. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 363-364
  33. ↑ Nocturnal Sea Gazetteer p. 392

Data from the Ravenloft Catalogue

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Ravenloft Third Edition - p132
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