Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition background
Allies
Allies is a background in Vampire V5: mortals or Kindred who will act on your behalf when asked.
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Overview
Allies are people who help because they want to: an old friend on the force, a coven of hedge witches, a biker club that owes you their lives. Unlike Retainers they are not employees, and unlike Contacts they do more than talk. Allies have their own lives and limits. Ask too much and they push back; put them in danger and you may lose them.
How it works
Dot ratings: Rate an ally group by Effectiveness (how capable) and Reliability (how consistently they show up). One dot is a minor helper, three dots a competent group that usually comes through, five dots an influential organization. Effect: Call on them for favors, muscle, or cover within their competence. The Storyteller may require a roll or a scene to secure help. Cost: Drawn from the 7 Background dots at creation (typical cap 3 per Background, Storyteller may allow more); after creation each new dot costs 3 times the new rating in XP. Predator Types: Cleaver and Consensualist each grant Allies +1 in this system's rules.
Tips and playstyle
Character concepts: Community organizer, ex-cop with loyal partners, Cleaver with a devoted family, Consensualist with hospital friends. When to take: Take it if you want NPCs with faces rather than abstract resources. Skip it if your character is a loner by design.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Allies and Retainers?
Retainers work for you and follow orders; Allies help by choice and can refuse. Allies are usually more capable but less controllable.
Can my allies be vampires?
Yes, with Storyteller approval. Kindred allies are powerful but come with their own agendas and enemies.