Though most younger vampires consider the tradition of Elysium a stuffy, outdated custom, it is one of the more honored of the Kindred's traditions. A Prince may declare portions of domain to be Elysium, places free from violence. It is here that many vampires come to pass the nights, debating, politicking and conducting intrigues among themselves for long hours. This is also where the Kindred business of the city takes place, and just about every vampire will have at least one occasion to visit Elysium, if only to speak with the Prince or an elder. However, it is certainly an elders' playground, and the young who venture here are expected to remember that.
Elysium is said to be under the "Pax Vampirica," meaning that no violence of any sort is permitted to take place and that Elysium is neutral ground. While tempers may flare and heated words may be exchanged, rivals are expected to keep a leash on their tempers. When apologies don't work, offenders are usually shown the door and told to correct their behavior. If things do get out of control on the premises, the Prince may punish the offenders through the invocation of the First Tradition.
Most areas of Elysium tend to be spots conductive to artistic or intellectual pursiuts, such as opera hourses, theaters, museums, galleries, university halls and the like. Occasionally, nightclubs and even certain Kindred havens are declared Elysium. Wherever one goes, one is expected to have some semblance of proper dress and manners, if for no reason other than the Masquerade.
Elysium rules are simple
2. No art is to be destroyed on pain of Final Death. -"Art" has ben expanded to include the artist on occasion, making the vampires of clan Toreador some of the greatest proponents of Elysium.
3. Elysium is neutral ground. -With relation to Rule One; what happens off Elysium grounds is another thing, however, and the upstart neonate who insults an elder during Elysium had best have reliable transportation back to her haven when she leaves.
4. Remember the Masquerade at all times. -This includes such matters as entering and leaving, taking a heated argument outside to cool, or hunting.
It is also considered bad manners to show up to Elysium hungry. While refreshments are sometimes provided, often they are not, and hunting around Elysium grounds can draw suspicion. If a Kindred brings a guest to Elysium, she is responsible for the guest's behavior.
Places of Elysium in Los Angeles
Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens
Museum of Contemporary Art
Griffith Park
The Orlando Hotel
1. No violence is permitted on the premises. -Many Princes take this a step further and demandt hat no weapons be brought into Elysium, to prevent hot tempers from having ready means.
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108; Tel: 626.405.2141
Tucked away in the Pasadena, this pristine oasis is a mystery to most Angelenos. The library and art collections at this Los Angeles museum are featured acts to be sure, but the gardens are the real star. Afternoon tea in the lush foliage is as nice an afternoon as can be found in L.A. This is where the Angels of the city come to frolic.
250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012; Tel: 213.626.6222
Even though most locals probably have no idea this oasis of modern art exists in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, it is a major force in contemporary art in this country. Case in point: In the summer of 2002, the first major Andy Warhol exhibit in more than a decade made LACMA its only North American stop. The museum's permanent collection, covering work after 1940, is nothing to scoff at, with major pieces by de Kooning, Hockney, Lichtenstein, Pollock, and Rauschenberg.
4730 Crystal Springs Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027; Tel: 214.913.4688
Covering more than 4000 acres, L.A.'s biggest park makes NYC's Central Park look like a median strip. The park features two golf courses, pony rides, a train museum and the stunning L.A. Griffith Observatory (which is currently closed for renovation). It's great to get lost in this green oasis in the gray land lined with freeways.
8384 West Third Street, Los Angeles CA 90048 Reservations: 1.866.301.1305
"The Utmost in Comfort and Understated Luxury"
The Orlando Hotel offers the utmost in comfort and understated luxury for the Los Angeles visitor. Bordering Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, this European-style hotel offers an oasis of calm amid the excitement and glamour of Los Angeles. Rodeo Drive, Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards, the Beverly Center, Farmers Market, museums and studios are just minutes away. From its nightly turn-down service featuring chocolate truffles, to its sparkling rooftop pool, the Orlando provides a unique LA-style experience you'll not soon forget.