Graham

Graham, a Malkavian entrenched in the belief that he belongs to the Ventrue clan, grapples with his internal delusions, desperately trying to project an image of sanity and rationality. Graham presents himself with a veneer of normalcy, his features a canvas of practiced composure, but he cannot avoid emotional outbursts when confronted with the stark reality of his delusion.

While initially possessing an idealistic and warm-hearted nature, Graham has evolved over the years into a more callous and indifferent individual. The scars of his past have left him burdened with trust issues, compelling him to guard his vulnerabilities out of a deep-seated fear of exploitation.

At the core of Graham's principles lies a profound appreciation for loyalty, and he exhibits an unwavering stubbornness when it comes to defending what he deems important.  Firmly entrenched in his delusions, he holds a steadfast belief that he possesses the requisite knowledge and authority to lend assistance to his fellow Malkavians within the kindred community.

Backstory

Graham's childhood was marred by a painful experience, leading him to a career in psychiatry where he dedicated himself to studying and treating mental disorders. Embraced in 1922 by the enigmatic Malkavian, Deborah, she forever changed his life. For years, unbeknownst to Graham, Deborah exploited his weaknesses and desires, manipulating him to achieve her own goals. She persuaded Graham to travel to the N city and ensured that Graham remained under her influence and control. Through calculated and strategic alliances within the Camarilla, Graham demonstrated understanding of the delicate balance between maintaining the Masquerade and preserving the status quo. His reputation as an educated and disciplined vampire earned him respect among his kind and the attention of influential figures in the Camarilla. Recognizing the need for a strong leader in Oswald's asylum, the Prince appointed Graham as Keeper of the Elysium, entrusting him with the responsibility of overseeing the institution.

Delusion

Whenever Graham gazes into a mirror, he sees distorted version of reality. The fear of encountering these unsettling hallucinations and the subsequent emotional turmoil they induce compels him to avoid mirrors. Graham experiences intense internal conflicts between his Malkavian nature and his delusions of being a Ventrue. This constant battle manifests as mood swings and occasional outbursts. Moments where Graham is forcibly reminded of his Malkavian nature or reveals his vulnerabilities, whether related to his past or current struggles, can lead to a defensive emotional response, swinging between anger, frustration, and vulnerability. Graham developed defense mechanisms to suppress his deteriorating mental state, creating the semblance of sanity. His position grants him a certain level of authority and respect among Kindred, even though his internal struggle threatens to shatter the carefully constructed facade he presents to the world.

Relationships

Stanley

Graham's attachment to one of his patients, Stanley, arose from recognizing similarities between the young man and his past self. With the prince's permission, Graham embraced Stanley as his childe. However, Stanley's mental state worsened after the Embrace, leaving Graham puzzled and determined to understand the cause of his childe's madness. Graham cares for Stanley as if he were his own son. Occasionally, Stanley's unstable behavior and tendency to lose self-control test Graham's patience, but Graham is gentle with him, always defending Stanley from the criticism of subordinates or fellow Kindred.

After a prolonged period of observation and attempts to understand Stanley's condition, Graham eventually comes to terms with the reality of Stanley's altered mental state. Despite his initial hopes of curing him, Graham acknowledges the futility of efforts to completely eradicate Stanley's madness. This realization becomes a crucial turning point in their relationship as Graham shifts his focus from fixing Stanley to providing support.

Graham becomes more adaptable to Stanley's quirks and works on establishing a balance between granting independence and ensuring his well-being. Graham's acceptance of Stanley's condition fosters trust and understanding between them. He becomes a source of stability for Stanley, helping him overcome the challenges of unlife and the complexities of their shared Malkavian heritage.