Giovanni Chronicles

[daelrog]

Solland shook his head at the debating. "My sire is a monster, even by the standards of the damned. So long as I can rid the world of one demon I care not otherwise. The countless artists, and children he would hurt with an eternity matter more than me. I only ask to be informed what our story is to the Conspiracy will be."

Solland headed towards the door, to sleep. He did not know which story was more believable, he did not know whether it was wise to follow the Founders, the Conspiracy, or neither. It was enough for him to try to stop Sire Wenceslas.

[JonRG]

Luca

No. This has nothing to due with culture and everything to do with the workings of a con. I don't think Wits + Etiquette should be an acceptable substitute for Manipulation + Subterfuge, simply because you sacrificed your social dots on Appearance.

"No lies? I counted several." Luca extended a finger. "You say Hardestadt sent us to die without purpose, and yet, here we have our own little mission. Granted, he might not expect all of us to return, but that's a very big stretch of the truth." He put up another finger. "Secondly, you say we wish to work with our sires. Unless "work with" is code for "drop-kick into a bonfire," I'm sure Solland, the Lady Vasa, and Seth would take issue with your statement." He extended a third finger. "Finally, and this is the biggest leap by far, you write off Hardestadt as being completely unreasonable. Granted the man's a bit of a hothead, but an intelligent one. The Conspirators are vain, yes, but they are not fools. We stand in the halls of their dreaded foes, Kindred their mad witch claimed could put an end to them all. You can disagree with the Founders' goals all you like, but to think poorly of their ability is to indirectly insult our sires."

Who was she to speak to him about self-improvement? One who'd lain back on a mattress and let all good things - and people - come to her? Luca wondered how many of the others might protest if he stuck a knife in her right now. The sailor's words cut through his contemplation. Bless his heart, the man actually had some reasonable ideas. "Unfortunately, none of those are very likely," Luca replied with a sigh. "Surely, one of the Conspirators' first tasks at their sanctuary would be to search for any sign of us. The fact that there has been none for the last two days means we were either destroyed, or captured and subsequently destroyed. If we appear before them, they'll know we're Hardestadt's pawns. I suppose the only way into their good graces would be to let them 'turn' us. Figuratively, this time."

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

"Our survival was not deemed quite likely to begin with, at least by the Earl. I think one of the others thought it possible... that Lady Jadviga, perhaps?" Benghi added, stroking his chin as he tried to remember.
"They left us there to die, so they will be surprised to hear we made it, and suspicious. I doubt they'd fully trust us whatever we do, but perhaps they may see it as a sign of our potential that we made it. And what do you mean, turn us again?"

[JonRG]

Luca

It was Lady Amisa," Luca corrected. "And I mean in terms of our loyalty. If we've encountered Hardestadt and survived, then we must support his goals, at least outwardly. If they're smart, they'll want to turn us to their side." He shrugged. "Likely, as you said, the Conspirators will take that as a sign of our worthiness."

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He looks up for a moment, scratching his short beard. "Could've been her, maybe. I was kind of distracted. But yes, if we go that way we'll have to play nice at first. If they believe us, good. If not, we have problems. I know patience is a virtue, but I'd really, really enjoy feeding that Earl his own scrotum, and I doubt the feeling would subside when I'm actually at arms' length and he's trying to give me orders."

He winces. "Pity that wench of his died in the castle, she might have had the nerve for that, and he seemed to have a liking for her. Though she did seem a pious sort."

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Final note? It appeared that the ratty old man wished to wrap up, although it wasn't entirely difficult to guess why. Just what you want your young Assamite to know: how to kill vampires with greater efficiency. Still, this was barely enough information to give him some ideas of what might work, much less a concrete plan of attack. Hurriedly, he tried to get in a last question before the little man's patience was completely shot.

Will it still be possible for me to go to confession or take Communion? If I am to fight this monster, I would wish that it be done with the blessing and pardon of the Holy Father.

And may I be provided with weapons? I brought a knife and a bow to Giovanni's party, thinking that they would ask for a test of skill as a bowman, but they were taken from me. Hardestadt did not seem amenable to me picking my weapons, so I left unarmed.

[BananaPhone]

Listening to the group debating over where their loyalties should lie, Alenka tried to consider both sides of the equation before speaking. Personally she had already decided her course of action: string Leopold Valdemar up for a sunrise. He had damned her and forced this curse upon her as if she were a plaything. He would regret what he had done.

She did, however, like the old mans suggestions of burning down their houses during the day. It was tasteless and lacked integrity, but such monsters deserved none.

"Deception and feigned allegiance are feeble weapons against the conspirators, for three reasons." Alenka chimed up during a lull in the chatter.

"First, Hardestadt has informed Isabella and I that our clans possess abilities of mental persuasion and coercion. Surely one of our sires is more advanced in their practice of the capability and would wring the truth from our minds, through lie or vampiric power. Either way, we would be immediately compromised.

Second, we have been initiated into a society so masterful with deception that two days ago none of us any any confirmation that their nightly society, which stretches from the Middle East to the Scottish Highlands, even existed at all. Yet these conspirators, our sires, were able to fool even them. As damaging to the ego as it is, we are apprentices and they are the masters in any game of lies, and we would be fools to stake our survival on such a one-sided contest.

Thirdly, hopes of rejoining the conspirators rests upon the conjecture that they would even entertain that possibility in the first place. Were I in their position and saw my misbegotten childe return to me after I had left them to certain death at the hands of my sworn enemies, I would destroy them without delay, to be sure that I was free of any tricks. If the rewards of their scheme is great enough to arouse the ire of as many vampires as we have been lead to believe, then our lives are immaterial in comparison to the profit and not worth the risk."

[Thundercracker]

Seth
Wonderful, we are not of one mind on this.

The old man looked up from the floor, where he had been studying a pair of lost ants.

"I think, at the current time, our greatest advantage is they do not know we exist," Seth says, "we should not throw this advantage away without careful thought and planning."

He glanced about the room. The others had fallen silent, but apparently only out of politeness; he didn't really have their attention, it seemed. Still, he cared not, the words needed to be spoken.

"I think our greatest weakness would be not acting of one mind," he continues, "the words of one could potentially doom the rest, but I think our best chance of surviving this oubliette of intrigue which has been thrust upon us is to work together, as one."

"Whether that means announcing our presence to the rebels and attempting to convince them we're not at all upset they meant to murder us, then use us as spear fodder," Seth says, looking pointedly at Isabella, "or slinking about, picking off the rebel leaders one at a time and leaving no witnesses to inform the rest who destroyed them, I feel we should work together."

[JonRG]

Luca

"Your words hold wisdom. No plan will save us if we do not all adhere to it. Bickering makes us no better than our sires." Luca took a deep breath."Personally, I feel that we're getting ahead of ourselves. If the Founders kick us out the door with no further assistance, then we should consider what story to tell the Conspirators. Best to rest and prepare for whatever lies ahead. Together." He flashed a grin. "So, did anyone else learn anything worthwhile?"

[Dark Seeker]

Andrei

I would advise against it. The church views us as demons. If any of them received an inkling as to what you are, they would bring the weight of the inquisition down on your neck. It's far too risky. Some kindred still do discuss their place in the Lord's plan, and some even consider themselves loyal followers of God, and debate about what they should do to best serve him. Should you survive long enough, perhaps you could commune with them. Their debates on the matter are quite spirited.

Rest assured, you and your companions will be granted some equipment before you leave tomorrow. After all, It would be foolish to send you in without any supplies.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

"Avoid sun, fire and stake to the heart, though I didn't have to die to not like the third one," Benghi shrugged at the Brandusa's question. "Also, each bloodline has some sort of weird problem, though I'm not clear on the details, and priests aren't as powerless as we might have believed, even without being surrounded by a mob with spears, torches and pitchforks. Oh, and we can safely assume most of our kin to be *******s, whether they are in rags or ermine. This apparently applies to our makers, so IF we get in their good graces we might be able to turn them against each other." He looks at Alenka, putting a hand up as he expects her disapproval. "Might; not much, but it won't be easy anyway. Apparently, each is out for power and greed - such makes for a rocky alliance, especially if they think things are not going well - as it seemed for a few moments when our current host was at the gates. We don't have much to work with so far - let's see if we'll get anything more before we have to leave."

He turns towards the older man. "Agreed. They are more, older, more cunning, and infinitely stronger. If we are not united - more united than they - then we are doomed.


Some time later, before resting, Benghi will leave for a short while and look for where Paul may be.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"I learned there is no member of Amisa's clan among the Followers, so I am not sure what gifts she has bestowed upon me," Seth replies, "it would be good if we can learn what those gifts are before acting, I imagine."

[daelrog]

Solland was laying down in his bed, his vision was still blurry. He finally understood why. He found a smudged, small piece of glass laying on the floor. He had picked it up, to see two glowing amber eyes starring back at him. A curse within a curse.

However, his hearing was beyond what it had ever been before. He could hear the conversation of the others outside as if he was standing amongst them. Solland had no opinion to give. Each seemed to believe their idea the best, whether it be the only way for them to survive for the optimistic ones, or the one that was less likely to destroy them on site for the pessimistic. Solland had seen into the heart of Sire Wenceslas, and knew that he would not be struck down. He could barge in with a sword raised, and it would amuse the monster more than anything. Sire Wenceslas was a corrupter, not a destroying. In his own words, he believed in suffering, not death.

For the other members of the Conspiracy he could not say, the fate of the others he could not say as well. Did he want them to live? On one hand they were brothers and sisters of the same heinous crime committed against them all. On the other, would they not become demons themselves given time? Had some of them already embraced their curse? Perhaps they were the wise ones for doing so.

A fly was hovering around Solland, it's noise amplified by his supernatural hearing. His hand shot out, catching the insect between his thumb and index. A curious thing, he had noticed his body moving more fluidly while he painted, even if it was uninspired. He wanted to take this as some sort of sign from God, that becoming more powerful was God's way of granting him the tools he needed to destroy Wenceslas, and others like him. Solland dared not though, for even Raphael who flaunted his damnation admitted solemnly that to be kindred was to be cursed.

Solland longed for an escape, for something beyond the darkness. He closed his eyes, and merely listened, waiting for sleep to take him.

[Karnius]

Stefan nods, still unsure of himself but finding himself slightly happier after Camilla's assurances. He smiles in response to Camilla and bows politely. I'm not sure that she has anything more to tell me: at least, I think I know the basics now. I don't like it, but things can get better with effort. I can only hope that the others are easy to work with, otherwise this really will be impossible.

"Thank you, mother." Stefan winces a little internally, uncomfortable with expressing such a sentiment to such an unsettling woman but aware that it might please her. "Perhaps I should rejoin the others, to discuss how we will find the conspirators. I will do my best to succeed - if it is in my power, Mieczyslav will be destroyed."

[Dark Seeker]

Benghi

It is not hard for Benghi to find the location of the wounded soldier. The first servant he asks is able to take him to Paul's location. It is a cramped and spartan looking room just off the barracks.

Going inside, Benghi discovers a shock. Nearly mortally wounded in the attack, Paul now stands with no apparent wounds on him! Even more surprising, Benghi can no longer detect the long thin scar that had gone down the entirety of his left leg. Upon seeing the sailor, the solder all but runs towards him, looking as though he wants to embrace him.

"My Lord! So this means that you and the others have survived? Oh, I am overjoyed!""

"I don't know what has happened. The lord's here are like the Earl. They are not human. And neither are you or the others anymore," A flicker of concern crosses his face. "Some might view you all as demons. But you and the others saved me, and the Lord here has offered me work a s a solder. What's more, he has healed me! I can... I can finally be a solder again!" His excitement is obvious.

Stefan

"Oh my little darling. Such a good boy!" Camilla hugs Stefan, cooing all the while.
"Go, go and meet with your nieces and nephews. You'll need to work closely together if you have any chance of success. be careful my dear. Do not die.

"It would be just like a naughty child to abandon mother!"

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Locking her fingers behind her back she listened to the man ... that he didn't like her was clear, and she disagreed on a number of points with him, but arguing about it would be someone of a waste.

So she remained silent to get the measure of the room for a bit.

There was merit here she decided.

Nodding to the man, "we seem to disagree on a number of points, however I will let them go if you will".

"What I propose is the following, I will take any willing and approach our sires per my indicated idea ... I am confident that some amongst them will not be surprised we survived, and confident that I survive", considering "another group can then plot their destruction from afar ... a means of communication might be helpful if done in a safe manner for all concerned, and from this group could come converts to the conspiracies cause if that is deemed a better option then my own for infiltration".

"Obviously the initial group cannot know the plans of the second group, or the potential third group in the event that we are compromised. But this multi pronged approach can maximise our individual skills and hopefully not force anyone into an approach they feel is poor", she looked around to see who looked comfortable with this.

Turning to the old servant and the sailor, "as mentioned earlier I had some items that I felt should wait until others were here", addressing the group "Hardestadt has not officially banned the concept of diablerie for this, but any who partake may find that he will not show mercy, however to even the power difference it may be worth considering at any of your discretion", considering "secondly as indicated he wants Giovanni for himself, and plan that you intend to walk away from should account for that as otherwise you may simple wish to leave the area now".

"You should also know the 'purity'", the word was mocking "of the Ventrue means I can only drink from some people. With myself it is those that have not experienced union with another", glancing around the room to make sure no one misunderstood, her voice for once legitimately cold "I assume the implications are not lost on any. I tell you because I do not wish for it to surprise you later and cause issue".

She moved on swiftly to the final and perhaps most important element, "With that out of the way I wanted to propose something else, if you will allow to some background first: we all do not know one another, and so have no reason to trust each other. Yet we are all bound to a degree to our sires and the loyalty of the blood may be clouding us in areas" looking around to see who might be be following her logic "To get to the point, to help ensure loyalty I suggest that we gather a cup and take blood from each that feels comfortable doing so, and bind ourselves to each other to the same degree as we are to our sires".
"As I may not be able to partake due to the afore mentioned restriction I am happy to go first as a show of trust, and to sit out the letting if I cannot partake, but I would consider it".

Having said her piece she sat down on the bed again.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He watches Paul with interest and more than a little curiosity. "Healed you? I'd say, you were barely on this world the last time I saw you, now you look haler than ever. What kind of healing is this, does he have a miracle-worker at his disposal?"[/color] He is not sure just what is happening, but it might be tied to some of the things Rodrigo told him. "How did he do that? Anyway, I feared you would have been questioned and tortured. You seem well, what happened?"

He looks at the soldier again. No, there doesn't seem to be a limp. That is a recovery beyond what he had heard of, and it certainly does not seem to be the work of any mortal knowledge. He himself did not feel like a demon, and yet he could not deny he was not a mortal man, either. "Demons... I doubt I am that. Whatever I am, I have the Earl to thank for," the way he said "thank" left little doubt to his meaning, "and maybe I will one day, providence willing. So, you have been offered a place in the castle?"

In the common room, he listened to the courtesan with wary interest. He puts his palms together and drums his fingers, hazel eyes glistening in the twilight. "Like I said, I have no quarrel with you, especially if we are on the same side. We got enough to occupy ourselves for a while. For now, I support trying to weasel our way into the ranks of our makers, but I'd like to keep an open mind. The founders probably know better what the Earl and his group are likely to believe. I don't want to trust them too far, but we don't have that many chances otherwise. Splitting up will probably not be a good idea, though. We're not much of a match for the conspiracy together. Separate, we're even worse. Every tricky scheme we need to concoct to keep in touch is one more thing that can go wrong."

Her mention of diablerie makes him raise an eyebrow. "Wasn't that what the Earl planned to do to his kinsman, and the biggest sin to the "kindred" of all? We are short of options and I don't want to dismiss power like that, but it seems like a blade with two edges - a rope around your neck that whoever knows about can pull when they want. If we have one of them at our mercy why not just kill them? From what I heard from Milov our hosts intend to move against the conspiracy if it is broken - killing a few of their number or driving them away may be enough. As long as they get the Giovanni, of course."

He snorts, stifling a laugh, as she speaks about purity and her feeding habits. He thinks about Milov's obssession with the hunt - perhaps this one has something like that, he thinks. Only her hunt is of a less... direct nature. The last suggestion, however, brings him back to the reality in the room and gives him the most pause. "I am... not certain just how this witchery works. What were you told?" he says, looking around.

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei pushed the paper slowly back and drew himself to his feet. He tapped his heart three times with his right hand and nodded to the little man. Stepping around the chair, he slid out through the door, and closed it behind him.

As he walked, Andrei maintained just enough attention to come back the way he followed Josef into the dungeons. The rest was lost in thought. Josef's warning seemed like wisdom, but it felt hollow. He felt hollow. So long as the church continued its crusade, he could neither confess nor receive the blessings of Communion. And of course there was plenty of vocal debate to be had . . . provided he survived. Provided he killed.

Andrei felt torn inside at the idea. Part of him raged at Al-Nasir. To have not only murdered a man, but ripped his soul from heaven and condemned it to hell for a momentary advantage was . . . Andrei had no words for such a crime. Even Judas contented himself with betraying the body of Christ. No, this crime could not stand, and a creature who would do such a thing deserved to be cast into the deepest pits of Hell.

But was that what he sought, he thought as he came to a new set of stairs? Justice? Or was it simply revenge. He had taken the measure of these creatures, and he found their society deeply wanting. Even Josef, he thought as he climbed, who seemed kindly in comparison to most, was only too happy to use another to serve his own interest. That others should be treated as you would have yourself treated appeared lost on these fiends. And now he was one of them. Perhaps this is how they all started, and over the centuries, these twisted monsters are all that remained of the souls that had been ripped from the afterlife.

He found himself on the rooftop of one of the towers after his climb. He stood and looked out. Despite the dark of night, he found that he could see, and the sight was . . . breathtaking. The wind blew in his face, crystal cold. In life it might have chilled him. Now, it simply cooly slid across his skin, through his hair and ruffled the clothes he still had bunched in his left hand. An owl flew past, looking at him as it went. Beyond, the river the castle abutted and the town beyond laid out before him. He had heard of artists creating wonderful landscapes, but Andrei doubted any one could have created such a pristine picture of beauty as the stars shown overhead, and the world sleeped beneath.

Maybe . . . maybe I can find some form of redemption. So long as I can still see . . . this. He stood looking a moment, then turned and went back inside, his hope kindled. He went down the stairs, searching now for the armory. If he was to go to war for humanity and for his soul, he would need weapons, and he would need as much instruction as possible in how to use them.


Andrei goes in search of the armory and training center. The first person he sees he will flag and gesticulate until his intentions are understood. Or they think he has a weird thing for pantomiming an axe murder in progress, one of the two.

[Dark Seeker]

Benghi

Paul shakes his head. "I don't really remember. The coachman questioned me for a time, but I was not entirely coherent. I remember Lord ...Hardestadt appearing. He made me swear an oath to serve him. Then he did something to me. Whatever witchery it was, it worked. He's promised me a position as a solder. I'm to start tomorrow!

"I don't know what exactly you or any of the others are, but I owe you all my life. If the opportunity arises for me to repay you in any way, call on me and I shall.

Andrei
Andrei is able to find his way to the armory soon enough, but he finds getting in more difficult. The two heavily armed guards stand obstructively in his way.

"No one is allowed in the armory without the express permission of Lord Hardestadt himself. On your way!"

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

The sailor nods, rubbing his chin. Even what would be mortal wounds, Rodrigo had said. He looks the soldier over again; that seems to have been correct. "I will see about that. I owe you for standing up to the Earl when you did - few men would have had the courage to say no to that thrice-accursed murderer. I and the rest will probably leave soon to see if we can foil his plans, but I wanted to make sure you are well before then. I guess it is fitting, send the killed to harry their killer."

He leans against the wall, thinking. This man could be useful in a fight, and he wasn't quite as sure as Rodrigo how fair a master Hardestadt was... but even if the Ventrue could be persuaded to let him go, his presence would stretch the credibility of their story even further. "You are a good man, Paul. I hope your faith doesn't dim in these dark nights - and your trust in us is not misplaced. If by some miracle we succeed, I will give the Giovanni your regards - if you don't mind."

[Dark Seeker]

Benghi

"Thank you sir. I.. I am. I still do not understand what happened, but I do believe the Lord has seen fit to give me another chance. I intend to take it."

"And when you see the Earl and that brute who punched me, do give them my regards. I'd like to give them to the brute myself, frankly."

All

Okay everyone, scenes are just about done. Remember to each take 2 xp for them. I'll let you all finish interacting with one another, then I'll put up the next scene later today or tomorrow. :smallsmile:

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She turned to the man, "I know no more then you I am afraid. Only what Roderigo mentioned", she shrugged, "but it seems simple enough. If we are already bound to our sires after drinking and could be bound further by carelessly taking blood it seems natural that we would be able to bind to each other. If so then if the bond to the sire is greater with less distance or some-such, then we will have a counter loyalty to consider", she rubbed some hair out of her face.

She looked at the bed, and considered, she had slept in the nude for years - assuming heat allowed - however given the company she decided against it, not a one seemed to wish to share her bed, and more then a few seemed but off by her casual attitude to carnal matters.

Losing only the heavier items of clothing, she crawled into the covers to prepare for her rest, which keeping an eye on the room "but then I would not hold it against anyone who did not wish to give up any loyalty so easily, either".

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

The Genoese cracks a crooked smile. "Well, if you do happen to find yourself in the vicinity, let me know. If we're still alive... so to say. Anyway keep your eyes open and may the Lord preserve you. Not many of us left from that night."

He looks up, trying to imagine what time it would be. Quite late (or early), he imagines. "I have to leave soon. It was good to see you, hopefully it won't be the last time. I guess I and the rest will be leaving the castle soon. Good night, Paul," he says, patting the man on the back before he leaves.

Benghi sat down in one of the empty beds, thinking. "It would make sense, I guess... but mystical matters like that don't always. I have no opinion on this yet. If some of those better informed say it is good, perhaps we can try. Or we can see if we can get some answers tomorrow. I'd say that if I were to owe someone loyalty, this group is much better than the one we'll be going to, that much is clear."

He looks around, interested to hear the others. He wonders if it is a trap, but feels fairly confident he has the means to avenge himself on one not much stronger or more experienced in the ways of the blood than himself. Besides, it would be true folly to try to reach so far so soon... Though he asked himself, after the events of the last few nights, did he really know what was folly and what not? He would just have to go, making it as he could. Had he been a more devout man, this could have been the period that might make him a prophet or a broken man.

Then again, had he been a more devout man, he might not have ended thus in the first place. He hummed a shanty as he took off his shoes and sat in the surprisingly comfortable bed.

[BananaPhone]

As someone of an elevated station her whole life, Alenka was not used to those from the lower orders brushing over or ignoring what she said, especially in favor of a harlot. Her new undead anatomy had, thankfully, cooled the nerves of what would've been an otherwise heated lecture to allow those of the proper upbringing and education to direct a course of action. Instead, Alenka rolled herself back onto her spine and stared at the roof, while wisps of shadow flickered around her face.

Listening to the conversation, she noticed Isabella's strange intensity for getting back to the conspirators. She even went so far as to suggest she'd return to them alone. Perhaps she was the spy that Alenka had theorised upon earlier.

But if it got her away from her so that she didn't have to listen to that girl go on and on and on and on...the countess tried to recall a time this entire night when that harlots jaw had not been moving, and she was remiss of such an occasion.

[Dark Seeker]

Act 2: Scene 2

The eight kindred settle into their lodgings, and drift off just before dawn.
Once they have all awoken the next night(at different times, oddly enough Roderigo escorts them to the command center of the Founders. Hardestadt and the others are there, gazing intently at maps and having a heated conversation that stops abruptly when the fledglings walk in. Hardestadt looks them over.

"Where's the Tremere?" he looks accusingly towards Fanchon.

"Lord Brandusa shows a promising degree of aptitude for our arts. I am personally tutoring him."

"Bah, he has a job to do! The craven!"

"Lord Hardestadt, do not attempt to fight me on this. If you want my support for your endeavor you will grant me this request."

Hardestadt sighs in defeat. "Fine." He scans the fledglings. "As for the rest of you, allow me to explain your mission. Listen well."

"You are puny, immature, and naive. There is little we can do about those unfavorable qualities. However, in my generosity, I will aid you immeasurably in your hunt for the conspirators.

"Claudius and his Conspiracy of Isaac meet in any number of places, huddling together to plot and scheme like the cravens they are. They think they are safe in their little havens, because they are so adapt at scurrying away like rats when their betters come calling. Yet, like rats, they seldom fear their own." he sips from a nearby solder before continuing.

"Therefore, you shall present yourself to the Conspiracy at the Inn of the Lion, where my sources say they often cower after being uprooted from their more comfortable nests.

"Do not attempt a frontal assault on the anathema, for you have no hope of destroying them. Instead, sue for peace. Beg they take you back. Tell the vile traitors that you escaped from my clutches and kidnapped Roderigo, forcing him to take you to all their known hideouts. Bring him with you and say he is dominated to you, but do not allow them to kill him." Hardestadt paces as he continues

"Watch and learn all you can. Find out when they intend to attack Japheth and tell me. And if an opportunity presents itself, destroy them one by one, either by playing them against one another or by a sneak attack. This will remove the burden your vile sires placed on you at the moment of your unlawful rebirths. However, do not destroy Giovanni. He will face justice at my hands."

Hardestadt goes quiet, waiting for questions.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi has an uneasy sleep. Much has happened in the last few nights, and though he lies still as the newly dead during the day, he drifts from one dream to another with only few periods of blessed, peaceful slumber. His frayed mind plays the scenes since his visit to the Inn since, but in a strange, disjointed and wrong manner. He sees the deferential innkeeper, but instead of cleaning a glass behind the counter the Italian knows the man is sharpening daggers, those slender, pointed blades that would pierce their necks so cleanly...

Then he remembers the trip to the Earl's manor and the boring road he saw from the small, shuttered window. Beautiful, yet boring, if not for the crucified bodies... yet when he looks at the bodies, the faces are his own and those of the other people who drew their last breath with him. Then he sees the scene from the eyes of one of the crucified, and as his sight is set on the wagon he sees, through the small window, an impassive face, a woman's face... she licks her lips and he knows that there is a thirsting beast that wants his life, his vitality, his manhood... all of him, his soul included, and something in him yearns for it. Dimitra looks from the inside, her green eyes appraising him, studying him - but he knows she has made her mind.

He is then at the castle, when they mixed in with the ohter guests, and he now senses the thirst, the desire behind those faces, pulsing as if maggots writhing underneath the mask of flesh that they wear. It is heavy in the air, hanging on like the strange feeling before the storm, and leaves a faint feeling in his throat... like an aftertaste - or premonition of metalic sense in his nose and throat. He chats up the Turk as the strange huntsman leaves with Dimitra, and they talk of faraway places and customs, of games and fight, and a wager is made... and then there is a chase, hiding, and fight, nad then he ends up blindfolded, waiting for the dagger he knows must come, yet it is not a dagger, but a rope... He hangs, blind yet all-seeing, dead yet the most alive of them all, from the roof of the hall as the unholy feast begins, blood slowly dripping into a cup on the table that the Earl toasts his gang whenever he leaves that strange woman's neck. Benghi senses the wracking pain she is in and her fighting the strange charm that stiffens her body, and knows that the flesh itself has gone dark, as if rebelling against this vileness, near where the bite marks are. The earl looks at him and laughs, toasting the Genoese with his own blood, asking him to come down, partake of this fine dame, why, is she not to his tastes? No? Indeed, but she would be so eager - indeed, he jests, she would gladly slip her own clothes and mount him rather than the earl himself, if she had the choice? Still no? Well, nothing to be done, pouts the Venetian as he cradles the slim neck, drinking his fill and then standing up as the woman bursts into flames with a scream, and the scream is the same, the very same. He hears something else in that scream, though, a cry that this should not have been, that she should have survived, that it was another that should have died in her place, not her, and she begins to scream a name... He can not remember the name, but he knows that whoever that dying dead woman named is not long for this world.

He rises later than some of the others, feeling a slight whiff of blood among himself - indeed, it seems that he has the faint sheen of bloody sweat along his neck. He wipes it off before standing up, seeing some of the others already left, and tries to ready himself as best he can. However, those who are nearby while he does so can easily see his distracted, almost haunted expression.

He tries to make sure it doesn't show when he enters Hardestadt's room. While he is still wary, he tries to give himself and air of calm readiness. Not entirely successfully, sadly, but it does not seem like any of these Founders cares overmuch for that.

He listens on; apparently they are meant to try to go back to their sires' good graces with Rodrigo as proof. He looks at the man, stifling a shake of his head. His fair master seemed to favor putting him in dangerous situations - and while Benghi himself would not mind seeing the ghoul live, the situation does not look very good for him. They are not to kill him, but how could they stop the conspirators from doing so if they decided to? For that matter, how likely was it that the Earl and his would believe them?

He waited for a while, having others say their say first; perhaps they would voice the same questions. Some were likely more skilled in deceit than he was.

Only after some of the others spoke, he added. "They did not expect to see us alive, we would have to be quite persuasive. Is there anything more that we could tell them to allay their suspicion - a route that might have been left less guarded, perhaps? Also, I imagine they would want to make sure Rodrigo is telling the truth, and may be vindictive over his role in this. What if they question him - roughly?"

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca had hoped to speak to Lady Vasa before they bedded down, but the opportunity escaped him. His sleep was also fitful. Homelessness had sharpened his senses to a razor's edge, and the noises of a castle were profoundly different from his apartment's. He awoke several times during the night (day?) and had nearly slugged Roderigo when the driver had looked in on them. Despite his troubles, Luca noticed a complete lack of exhaustion. Was this another boon of the undead state? He kept his face impassive while Hardestadt spoke and noted the risky situation that Roderigo now found himself in. "We're to return to them with their spy and keep him alive? For someone who thinks so little of us, Hardestadt expects much." Luca closed his eyes in thought. "No, wait. I've got it. Don't worry, little ghoul. This lowly one will keep you safe... so long as certain busybodies can stay quiet." He snuck a glance at Isabella, curious what she might say to offend the lord this time.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Sleep came easy, and left easy during the day ... or at least she assumed it was day, the dreams were less easy.

She saw her younger in a room with her mother on the ground with some clients, they were hurting her ... at the time she was scared and wanted them to leave ... now the scene seemed almost normal or even tame.

The next scene was in the castle standing to one side watching her madness rip apart guards and soldiers alike, only this time it was not for blood it was for fun, and and the soldiers and servants did not look addled then looked innocent and pure being set on by a wicked monster.

Next she was in the basement with the brother, only this time both were eager and honest and his only devotion was to her.

The servant was before her ready to be whipped and she did so, taking it past simple punishment into death, but while the body gave out the girls soul still screamed and she still continues, smiling sweetly at Jadviga the whole time.

She was back in the orgy she had caused, but this time she was active as she engaged in all many of defilements of herself and others.

She was standing on the roadside and a man and his daughter walked past, the girl had nothing but trust for her father in her eyes and the man nothing but warm compassion and love for the girl, she felt herself tense to destroy this abomination and only reined herself in when she grasped the man's mind and made him beat the girl bloody, the innocence between them shattered.

She was in a court lounging on a chair, a princess being honoured.
The mortals and the paler ones bowed, begged and honoured her, but the land was as its leader and outside the animals howled and died, the church walls turned turned brittle and the young were born as monsters.

The last two had her wake with a scream, worse she was warm her body had reacted with lust to the disgusting nature of her visions, she shivered uncontrollable and got up, she would not sleep again this day.

She dressed and went to find a servant the girl from the night before as it happened, and she asked to be shown to a bath and provided clean clothes.

The girl helped her wash and then on impulse she drew the servant in for an embrace, letting the tension roll out of her before kissing the girl gently on the lips "Thank you", this girl had a haunting worried look to her eyes constantly, but Isabella vowed that she would not harm her or use her unfairly, "you have been nearly as good to me as I deserve" she said playfully, you have been kinder to me as I deserve.

Feeling refreshed and her weakness resolved she moved back to the main room waiting to be summoned.

Entering the room with the others she listened to Hardestadt as he spoke, she waited briefly for others to perhaps speak, and then began herself.

She adopted a formal approach, offering the expected mortal considerations for a lord being spoken by one of undetermined lower station - in truth she was not sure what Ventrue status meant for her, was she a noble herself or still the lowest born peasant.
"My lord Hardestadt, thank you for this opportunity", she began with a curtsy, "and for the aid of your man", she continued as she rose the hint of a polite and respectful smile on her face "I am sure we appreciate it". Now for the difficult part she considered "please forgive my ignorance, but will they believe that we were able to circumvent the power of your blood with our perhaps underdeveloped abilities", her head bowed to show no disrespect, "and if so how should we act with him to keep him safe from their vengeance" she queried.

In truth she had a plan, but advise could not hurt.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka had not been visited by any dreams during the night. Instead, she had awoken with the gratitude towards fate for having guided her successfully through her first time of slumbering in a commoners bed.

Seeing that the others were gathered at Hardestadt's command centre, the countess felt the gravity of his commands as much as anyone. What he demanded of them was a near-suicidal feat, and one that they would not return from alive - at least, if she were one of the conspirators.

She looked over at Roderigo and considered him silently. Poor man, you are doomed - an unjust demise for one to whom we all owe our lives. When we return to the monsters that infused us with damnation they shall surely rip the truth from our minds.

She looked at the others gradually as well, studying their features and returning any small, acknowledging facial-gestures should they offer them.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
As daybreak approached and the others fell silent, Seth's thoughts turned towards Erwin. By now news of the attack on the castle would have reached the boy. How long would he wait for Seth's return? A day, three perhaps? It wouldn't be long though before he returned to his family. Would they count their blessings that their son had survived by sheer luck? Would he be mourned? He could only hope that some would spare at least a thought for his passing.

The following day, the servant stood with the others and listened attentively as Hardestadt laid out his plan.

"That's suicide," Seth thought.

He awaited Hardestadt's reply to Isabella's question. If their captor had any additional advice, Seth would be sure to take it under consideration. He was careful to keep his thoughts to himself, betraying nothing of his feelings by voice or by expression. If what the others had said was true, Roderigo was completely loyal to Hardestadt and would not be easy to deter from the course of action his master had set.

[Dark Seeker]

"Durga Syn will ensure that your stories hold up to...prolonged interrogation."

The old woman stepped forward. "I shall cast a ritual to protect you little chicks from the fully grown birds pecking," she let out a cackle. She held a bowl in her hand. There was some dark green liquid inside that occasionally bubbled.

"Each of you provide me with a single hair off your newborn heads." Durga Syn explains, awaiting for them to do so. Provided they all do, Durga Syn gestures for them to add it to the bowl. Once eight hairs have been placed in it, she bites her finger, releasing a few drops of blood into the mix. The liquid immediately begins to smoke.

"Now drink, my little chicks. This potion shall temporary shield you from your sires tricks. Should they try to reveal any deception, they shall only read the tale you tell them as the truth."

[McStabbington]

Andrei

That is not how you hunt.

Andrei's eyes bored into Hardestadt, barely bothering to leave his face when the harlot spoke or when Durga Syn came up to him. While he kept his face impassive, the contents of his dream still haunted his thoughts.

Unable to gain access to the armory so he could relax with a bow, he had contented himself with going back to his perch on the castle roof to watch the world sleep. It had only been the creeping sense of dread he got as he saw the first lightening in the Eastern sky that had driven him back, and as he had crossed briskly to the barracks he had seen the others enter from on high, his skin had begun to feel burned even as the sky lit up into the first pale orange flickers of dawn. Once inside, a powerful drowsiness had stolen over him, and he had pulled the sheets over him and slept soundly through the day. But his dreams had been troubled. While his dreams flitted away from him come eve, when he had awoken before most of his comrades, one thing remained as he dropped to the ground and did a few sets of pushups to limber his body up, only to stop when he felt no exertion nor any increased limberness after a minute going as fast as he could.

It was the face of the little girl Hardestadt had murdered.

And it made it difficult for Andrei to stand in the same room with him, much less watch intently as he offered a plainly suicidal plan. Andrei had drawn a measure of the other Assamite, and he knew that the Mussulman was not an idiot. What's more, he had some reasonable measure of efficiency. The fiend needed Andrei like he needed a third arm between his shoulderblades. And there was no worse bait than that which one did not need.

No, this was no way to hunt.

His thoughts were interrupted by the old crone waving at him to get his attention and pantomiming pulling hairs out of his head. He gestured with one finger quizzically, then reached up and plucked a shoulder-length strand of brown from the locks that flowed from his crown and handed it to her. He watched as she then made her concoction. His face moved back as she pushed it at him. He looked at the others, clacked his teeth together twice, then held up three fingers that flashed quickly into one while looking quizzically both at the old crone, and then at the others.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He looks at the crone with a raised eyebrow. Yes, she had been honest and capable so far, but he still can't bring himself to truly trust the old witch.
Then again, what other options did he have?

He takes a small knife from a nearby tray and cuts a lock off his hair, leaving it in her bowl and trying to ignore the smell. Was it... camomile?

"I hope it does, old one," he smiled slightly. If it didn't, he was a dead... well, deadER man. For a moment, he thought about just what kind of power those elder monsters commanded, that they could even foil the magic of their makers."Well, let's see if we can lie to those liars. May your brew cloud their minds!"

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Catching the look of the noble lady who disliked her she nodded subtlety to acknowledge her politely.

As Durga Syn approached she plucked a hair from her head noting the golden sheen as the light caught the single strand, before dropping it in the brew.

"Thank you" she said in a low voice to the older woman, "will it foil mundane measures of detection, and will it allow us to show lies when needed", she smiled respectfully.

If there faces showed the lie it would not matter what magic showed, further being commanded to lie to test the accuracy of the magic method would seem a fairly easy test to ensure accuracy.

She still wanted her question on how to treat Roderigo answered, but there was no point in pressing it if they choose to ignore her.

[daelrog]

Solland drinks readily from Durga Syn. He too had wondered how they would fool the damned, how now eight could all stand strong when they were fracturing within. He spent his time observing the Founders, trying to see what he could see in them.

Just for fun, Solland's going to be observing the Founders + Durga, see if he can catch any quirks or something. I'll start with four of them, and if time permits, he'll observe the other four.

Adana (Raphael's comment about causes has made Solland more curious about her than others

[roll0]

Durga

[roll1]

Josef

[roll2]

Hardestadt

[roll3]

[BananaPhone]

Alenka took a drink as instructed.

[Thundercracker]

Seth

The witch held out her brew to drink, and the old man eyed it as it passed from one person to the next.
"I'd better do it, they're all here watching me," he thought.

The old man drank as instructed, wondering if the brew would stay down.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca idly wondered if the brew could be poisoned, then wondered what harm poison could do him. He drank quickly from the cup. "Thank you," Luca muttered. In a louder voice, he continued, "Well, the Conspirators strike me as a vain and overconfident sort." Much like the Founders, but no need to sour the mood with mention of that. "So long as no one suggests the possibility of magical deception, they will likely put complete faith in their abilities, even over their own eyes. Besides, we are not exactly wanting for reasons to be nervous." Luca gestured towards the Founders and his grand-sire.

[Dark Seeker]

"My brew is potent, but you must still be careful not to show your lies through your behavior. My little chick speaks the truth. Our kind is a powerful and arrogant lot," Here she pauses and throws a look at Hardestadt, who looks annoyed but says nothing. "They will trust in their powers to tell them the truth. Should you act the part, they won't even suspect deception."

Solland observes some of his elders. Adana looks intent. She seems impressed with the fledglings. Durga seems amused. Josef is stoic, and Hardestadt looks annoyed.

At Isabella's question, Hardestadt finally speaks. "Think of a suitable story, and stick to it. Perhaps you all dominated Roderigo into helping you. Or perhaps you freed him from the foul spell I put him under, and he took you back to his true masters. I care little what subterfuge you practice, just ensure he is not killed."

Durga Syn waits until everyone takes a drink. It is a foul tasting liquid, but despite the nausea, the kindred have no trouble keeping it down. The Ravnos lets out a final cackle, and drinks the rest of the bowl herself.
"None can access your memories now. You shall be protected from mental commands. This power shall last but a week, but that should be plenty of time for you to make use o fit. You will still know if your sires attempt to use their powers to seize control of you. I suggest you play along with them when you are able, just to ensure none of them grow wise to your protection."

Hardestadt speaks. "Now that that is taken care of, we shall lead you to the armory. You will be given some equipment for your journey...'

"Hardestadt, a word if I may." Rafeal interjects. Hardestadt sighs but gives the floor to the handsome Toreador. He steps forward gracefully, and addresses all of the Fledglings.

"A friendly word of caution, fledglings. Humans fear what they do not understand, and they will now fear you. Priests...priests who are supposed to be the embodiment of Christian love and charity, with consign you tot he fires of hell merely for existing. Even if you were the noblest soul since our Savior they would destroy you, even as the Romans destroyed Him. So take care younglings. If it was only your survival that hung in the balance, I am sure Hardestadt would not care if you flaunted your natures." Hardestadt snorts.

"However, it is the survival of all kindred that depend on you. You must keep to a Masquerade. Do not reveal your true nature to the kine, or we will be forced to hunt you down and destroy you." Rafael manages to look genuinely regretful at this prospect, despite calling for it the night before.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She nodded again subtly to the noble or faux noble at his words, she suspected the latter but why bother maintaining the deception in that event?
He was correct in his reading of the group to her mind, but she preferred to ask these questions for certainty.

She had difficulty retaining a passive face at Hardestadt's dismissive treatment of priorities, was Roderigo life a higher priority then stopping Giovanni, lower? much lower? gah ... the man likely considered his edicts all equally important even when that could conflict easily, it was an effort not to call him on this and have him explain.
If I am ever in his position I am going to have a priority order, she thought darkly.

Breaking from the thought she smiled at Durga Syn honestly pleased to have received blunt and complete answers to her questions, if only you were in charge she thought.
"Thank you" she whispered to the woman.

Despite herself her eyes were drawn to the beautiful man and she found herself wanting to agree with him solely to keep him talking a smile creeping into her face, snap the hell out of it, she closed her eyes and reset herself, opening them again to a more calculated look and a controlled expression.
Still it did not hurt to look and listen, and the man did offer some advise that seemed obvious but it never hurt to have spoken confirmation of suspicions.

She nodded to the founders politely and waited to be shown to this armoury with the others.

[Dark Seeker]

"Now that that has been taken care of, it's time we provide you with suitable equipment for your task. Cherish well our hospitality."

Hardestadt leads the party to the large and well stocked armory. The very sight of him makes the guard stand aside, and the fledglings find themselves in a room containing all sorts of weapons and armor.

List of equipment: http://darkagesvampire.wikidot.com/mechanics:weapons

http://darkagesvampire.wikidot.com/mechanics:armor

Mark whatever you take on your sheet.
Below is the equipment available
Axes: all
Blunt Weapons: all
Blades: Knife- to Broadsword
Long Weapons: Javelin-Poleax
Missile weapons: all
Thrown weapons: all
Armor: Light-heavy armor
Shields and parrying weapons: all

[daelrog]

Solland looks around at the armory. He had never seen one before, and the sight of it was slightly unpleasant. Still, he had asked for a sword the night before and took the most modest looking sabre he could find, something more practical than aesthetic. He also took a pair of knives and daggers each, and a single stake if one was available.

Solland would also ask for a long cloak as well, preferably a modest one.

[BananaPhone]

The old crones potion put Alenkas concerns at ease and instilled some hope for their survival.

Upon arriving at the armory, Alenka drifted over to a rack of weapons. Surprisingly, she was rather adept at handling steel and bow. Easily, she plucked up a dagger and spun it around several times in her hand. The sensation rekindled memories of nights spent sparing with her brothers and acquiring technique to make up for her lack of upper body strength. The latter seemed to no longer be a problem, as Caines blood had endowed her with physical power to match that of a man many times her size.

When the countesses eyes fell upon some archery weapons, her eyes widen and she smiled for the first time in many days. Hurrying over, she seized upon a horse archers bow, held it adjacent to her body and begun pulling on the string while staring down her arm to test its sights and strength.

"What about steeds?" she said over her shoulder to the attendant.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
The old man glanced about the armory. It seemed many of the others were quite proficient with the arms and armor, but serving as he had behind the comfortable walls of a lord's home, he'd never really had the opportunity or the need to learn the martial disciplines.

"We must ensure we add raiding the armory to our tale of escape," he says.

He picked out a suit of hardened boiled leather to wear, though it took him quite some time to put it on. For weapons he chose a broadsword, its weight hanging uncomfortably on the left side of his waist as he strapped on the weapon belt, and a dagger for his boot. He had no idea how to use the long blade, but perhaps the mere appearance of so much steel would be enough to deter any would be attackers. He resolved to learn at least the rudiments of swordplay from the others, if only so he could avoid embarassing himself by drawing steel improperly.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Whatever plan they'd have to take to foil their so-called sires, Benghi thinks, being armed was always a good start. He follows the others to the armory, his spirits notably better, as he wonders what they will find. He has had his share of bloodshed at sea, and while hardly an expert fighter has picked up a dirty trick or two. He prefers to keep problems further away, though, and is at least as good with a thrown knife as a held one.

"Or beating up some luckless sods who had been in our way," he replies. "We may be more trustworthy than we'd otherwise be, but let's keep our tales somewhat realistic."

He can't stifle a surprised chuckle when he sees the armory, and walks up to the weapon racks. While he has seen swords wielded to miraculous effects, they aren't really his thing. A fine weapon for someone who has had a lifetime to train with them, but he preferred something that afforded him more power. He handles a few maces and axes, and the odd knife, setting aside a few things for further deliberation. He eyes the javelins suspiciously - heavier weapons than he has normally used for throwing, but he has seen them used to good effect - and handles one of them, testing its balance and weight. He nods with approval, feeling quite confident that he could put one through a man from some distance away. He looks around, trying to get a feeling of what weapons the others pick and how skilled they look, and notices that one is looking for a stake. That might be handy as well, he thinks, though he expects that whenever he is in a position to put an ashen stake through someone's heart he can probably cut off his neck just as well. Then again, he thinks, a well-made stake could probably fly fairly well.

After that, he looks at some of the armors. He isn't used to wearing heavier armors and preferred to fight unencumbered, but some of the armors there look light enough that they could work for him - and tough as his form was supposed to be, he does not mind some additional protection. Sadly, helms got in the way of his hearing and sight, and he wants to make sure he does not lack for these. He instead takes a cloak - it would offer him some protection from the elements and from some prying eyes.

He feels a bit absurd with these several weapons, but he has seen what a few heavier-armed men could do to poorly equipped sods, and most of what he carried would remain hidden in his cloak. After all, the lord said he was being generous - and Benghi planned to put these to good use.

If that doesn't raise some objections, Benghi may end up picking quite a few things - a battleaxe, a small hatchet, knife, two javelins, a stake, a small shield, quilted light armor, covered by a cloak. I think this would put him at around standard gear for a soldier for the period - which might lend some credence to the idea that we took it from some. I don't want him to carry too much gear, but he may be a bit of the "waste not, want not" mentality.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She was a bit at a loss in the armoury, walking up to weapons obviously too large for her and then backing away only to look at the armour the same way.

Finally exasperated she picked out a mid-range armour that seemed to offer some real protection but that also unfortunately seemed to slow her a bit ... it would have to do.

Moving helmets she could not find one that fit her properly, all either annoying her vision or hurting her to an uncomfortable degree she put them down and back away casting an annoyed glance at the selection.

Returning to the weapons she picked up a spear and tried to wield it two handed until she had a firm grip on it and stood with some surety of how to use it, an illusion that collapsed as soon as she moved with it almost dropping the blasted thing, genuine annoyance showing on her face for once.

She finally grabbed some daggers and a cloak and stood in front one of the shinier armours to see how much of a jester she looked.

Surprising little in fact she considered, still this was the image of a helpless girl taking up weapons for the first time and he clumsiness with the armour would leave no one in any doubt that relying on her in a fight might be a mistake ... unless they remembered the previous night.


Isabella has taken a spear, composite armour, three daggers and a cloak.

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei still did not feel comfortable about drinking that foul brew. Witchcraft was witchcraft, regardless of the effect. Plus it had a terrible aftertaste. But when he'd seen everyone else drink it down, he'd reluctantly followed suit. For the last time, he promised himself. Such a foul desecration of the act of Communion was not to be repeated.

His suspicions eased somewhat when he was allowed into the armory. His eyes were immediately drawn to the bows arrayed in the far corner. Picking up one, he slid his hand along the length of wood, silently testing its give and construction. Not as handsome as some bows I've seen, but well-made.

As he set it down, a black case in the corner caught his eye. As he slid it out, he noted with wonder that the wood was ebony, inlaid with ivory. On the lid was an etching of a warrior on horseback, done with a skill in woodworking that was far beyond his ability to whittle. The craftsmanship was superb. Opening the box, Andrei beheld a bow the likes of which he had never seen before in his life. The core was a rich burnished wood, a type he was unsure of. On the inside was animal horn, again of a type he was unfamiliar with. Bound with sinew and animal glue, the bow was small but coiled outward on each half of the grip. Andrei could see why the bow was boxed as it was; the glue would dissolve in water, which meant such a bow could never be allowed to get wet; hence the watertight sealing and exceptional construction of the box. At the bottom of the case was a silk string and a handguard. Looking at the handguard, he noted with some peculiarity that it was different from the four-fingered glove he typically used, in that it seemed to protect the thumb. He guessed that the bow was built for a different style of grip than he was used to.

Sliding the bow out, he carefully strung it. Testing it, he found the silk to be drawn like iron. The curves in the bow caused immense coiling power, but it was also beyond Andrei's strength to pull more than a few inches without causing the bow to jump around as he strained to draw. Sighing, he unstrung the bow and carefully put it back into its box, setting the ebony case to one side. I cannot use it yet, but that bow is a suitable weregild for tasking me for a suicide mission. Over it he laid the gear he selected, before carrying the pile out.

First, he set down another shortbow and enough arrows to refill the quiver on his back. While nothing compared to the work of art in the box, it was nevertheless sturdily constructed, would not lose its shape when wet, and was overall a better bow than the one he had lost in Giovanni's castle. Next he slid a new longknife into his sheathe, this one steel to replace the carburized-iron knife he had lost. He briefly looked at the swords, but even the smaller sabers felt awkward and ungainly in his hand. Anyone who saw him with one would know him for a rank amateur on the spot.

Instead he selected a small hatchet and a larger axe. The larger weapon was somwhat smaller and slimmer than the axe he had used at home to chop wood. Nevertheless, when he tried to lift the weapon and swing in one hand, he found the weapon constantly drooping unless he choked up on the steel haft. He was about to set it aside when he remembered the ratty man's claim that he could increase his strength by focusing his blood flow to the extremities, rendering him capable, for short bursts, of feats of inhuman grace and power. He retreated momentarily within, stilling his mind and directing his blood as he had tried the night before, only instead of knitting his sinew back together, he focused on increasing his power. His blood began to vibrate in his ears, pounding faster through him. He felt it churning through the muscles in his back and arms, and when he hefted the axe again, it felt light and swung easily. Andrei still had no idea how to do anything fancy with it, but at least he knew he could hoist it until he got stronger on his own. He placed both the hatchet and the larger axe in the pile.

From there he went to the armor. A steel cap went on his head after he slid on a suit of ringmail armor over his leather, then came back off before going in the pile. The ringmail was heavy, and it constricted his arms and back; until he got more used to handling his weapons and a bit stronger, he would have to settle for the byrnie of hardened bearskin leather he already wore. Nevertheless, it might prove useful in the future. Finally, he drew up a wide circular shield made of oak and leather. Over the front was a large red bear standing rampant, and something about the design endeared itself to him. Plus, it'll protect me from arrows, he thought as he pulled his bearskin cloak back on him, although not before noting a few smudges of crusted blood that he would have to wash off the fur the next time he had a chance.


Andrei is taking a shortbow, dagger, hatchet, hand axe, and a suit of heavy armor, footman's shield and light helm. He already possesses a cloak and light armor.

The bow in the box is a recurved short bow, but I figure it can be statted identically to a longbow. I suppose in theory if I ever became a master horseman in addition to being a master bowman, the question of whether I could use it while on horseback might come up, but that wasn't really the plan I had for the character. Suffice to say right now, it's just a really nice Mongol-style short bow that Andrei can't use at present without blood points.

[Dark Seeker]

Hardestadt watches the party select their equipment. He seems annoyed, but provides cloaks to those who want them. They offer little more than concealment.

"You do not require steeds. Roderigo shall accompany you as your coachman. He shall handle your transportation. It is why it is vital you keep him alive."

He nods gruffly at Seth's words. "That would be advised. Even with your invulnerability to their mental powers, your sires will still be rightfully suspicious should you show up heavily armed. Get your story together now before you face them, or you will die." He does not seem entirely broken up over the prospect.

When everyone is ready, Hardestadt leads them out to the gates of castle Deverick. Roderigo is already waiting for them.

"One final thing before you go. Ensure that one of the first conspirators you destroy is my clanmate, Lady Jadviga Almanov. She is a very dangerous woman. You will likely fail in your mission should she be permitted to survive for too long. Ensure that she is disposed of at the first opportunity." his eyes gleam with malice.

"As for the rest of your task, report back to me as soon as you learn more about when Giovanni intends to kill Jacpeth. We must be kept abreast of your sires intentions. Now go, and prove you are worth the sacrifices I made to allow you all to live." He turns briskly on his heels and storms off.

Roderigo helps the party into his coach.

"I shall endeavor to make your ride as comfortable as possible. Please relax and plan for the trials ahead."

The horses begin to move, and the fledglings are off to a family reunion.

Just to keep everyone on the same page, all characters should have 19 blood. In a rare act of generosity, Hardestadt wants the fledglings well fed. Feel free to rp your character's thoughts on the journey to the Earl's base of operations.

Stefan

You suddenly feel even worse. The curse has struck again, and you now have 1/4 of the die polls you normally would.

[BananaPhone]

Grabbing bits and pieces together, Alenka felt amongst the more familiar as she picked up a light leather tunic that would cover her torso. It took her back to the days of hunting with her brothers: donning the leather, acquiring the bows and sharpening the knives in order to trash, kill and skin bears.

Finding some place private, she put on the leather vest. With britches and pants, she almost looked like a future swashbuckler. All she'd need now was a fancy hat, brightly colored feather and a cape to dazzle her opponents as she effected a dramatic escape!

Strapping some knives to her person, a longsword to her waist, a shortbow to her back, a quiver of arrows over one shoulder and a buckler just in case, Alenka genuinely smiled as she quickly unsheathed her longsword and thrust it out before her with an impaling blow. Giggling softly to herself, the countess felt alleviated from the dreariness so far, and even a little excited for what was to come.

I'll nab a few daggers, a shortbow, broadsword, small shield and light leather armor. No helmet, that would cover up my dashing features.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca could hardly suppress his glee when Hardestadt led them into the armory. Never in all his life had he seen such a weapons cache. The bladed weaponry called to him first. Luca already owned armor and had never cared to attack from beyond arm's reach. Nimble fingers grabbed for two daggers and a half-dozen knives. Upon closer inspection, a few of the knives were actually balanced for throwing. Luca made to put one back, but then flipped the knife as his sire had done. Yes. These would do nicely. His eye also caught a noble's dueling sword, which he grabbed and belted around his waist. Finally, he grabbed a shortbow. Archery wasn't his strong suit, but better to have a bow and not need it than need it and not have it. Luca smiled at Alenka's return. "You're looking much better tonight, milady."

Luca now possesses two daggers, six knives, a broadsword, a cloak, and a shortbow in addition to his original light armor and one dagger.

[BananaPhone]

Holding the handle of the blde she had picked up and deftly taking smoe slices out of the air, Alenka paused and turned to face Luca - the other noble-blooded fellow that had addressed her.

Offering a broad smile, a childish glee lurking in the corner of her lips, Alenka ran a finger up the length of her weapon.

"It's been such a long time since I carried one of these!" she smirked, blue eyes fixated on the glimmerof the blade.

"It brings back so many memories..."

The countess then made a thrust to the side; the weapon coming to sharp stop as if she were reliving stabbing something, or someone.

"Aaagggrh!" Alenka made a mock yelp of someone dying, before she brought up her other hand to cover her mouth and giggle.

Turning her eyes back to look at Luca, her smile remained.

"You yourself seem to be no stranger to the weight of steel in your hand."

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He puts on his cloak, making sure it does not show much of what he intends to keep concealed, and still allows him ready access to all stored weapons. The javelins - more short spears than specialized javelins, he thinks - will have to be carried openly, but that shouldn't be a big problem. He can probably play the part of a retainer or sergeant, in case anyone thinks of questioning a noble with several armed men around them at night. He almost rolls his eyes at the woman's enthusiasm for swordplay, but then, her moves seem to show some competence. Perhaps some noble girls were taught how to put a knife in someone's ribs, he thinks as he suppresses a smirk, but still rolls his eyes at her mock death-cry. The other nobleman's enthusiasm for nabbing a few knives seems a lot more agreeable to him, and after a moment of thinking he takes one more.

The Italian seems as if he may have some questions, but when Hardestadt so surely turns back and leaves, he simply looks up and shrugs. He rather doubts they'd have the time or opportunity to leave the conspirators for that long without it causing problems, but perhaps Rodrigo could offer advice. After last night, he had some ideas - and was happy he took the time to get a small pouch of crumbs and scraps from the kitchens to, so to say, hire messengers with. "Sacrifices, huh," he mumbles to himself when the lord is safely out of sight.

In the coach, he makes himself comfortable - as much as he can - so he can concentrate on his mind. "Rodrigo, does your master expect us to report to him in person, or arrange a courier? The latter may be a lot simpler. And lady, you seemed quite enthusiastic there," he adds, turning to Alenka with a mischievous smile. "Did you have someone in mind?"

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"Right, so how did we escape?" Seth asks, "and whose idea was it?"

"On this story, the fate of some or all of us may hinge, so let's not spare effort in making it believable," he adds.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi turns towards the old man, then looks down at his clothes, and shrugs. He waits for Alenka to answer before giving his opinion; the last thing he wants is to have one of his comrades offended over rank or some such, and he imagins nobles and courtesans might know something about intrigue. "I say we tell them we escaped from where they left us. This Hardestadt's soldiers were looking for us, but we eluded them and ambushed a bunch. We found Rodrigo pressed into service, and we took him." He rubs his chin, thinking about how the plan sounded. "They may be angry we didn't stay to be captured, but we got Hardestadt off their backs, which was kind of the objective. Besides, it sounds a lot more plausible than escaping from their castle. Rodrigo, can you think of a way you'd know where they were heading that doesn't make you seem like a spy?"

He winces - it sounds solid enough to him, but he's not sure if their "sires" would appreciate the disobedience. Then again, considering the alternative was death... "If you don't like that, we could say we escaped from the carriage they were transporting us in. Say Hardestadt captured us and sent us to his castle to torture, and continued to scour the region for them with most of his men - he didn't expect us to be any trouble. Still, this seems a bit more difficult to do - you'd think that an old vampire like him knows how to grip what he caught."

Neither version sounded that plausible, he knows, but the conspirators DID leave them there to die, and they weren't quite dead. Either way, there'd have to be a scuffle that explains their coming armed and armored. "Might be a good idea to make our gear appear used, mind you. We don't look like we've made a dangerous escape."

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei busied himself with packing his weapons. The hatchet and hand-axe he attached to his belt before carefully sliding his bearskin cloak back on. The quiver and bow went over the back. The ringmail armor he padded with the merchant garb he'd been handed and then neatly folded it into a roll. With that done, he slung his shield and carried the roll into the carriage.

he drew a seat next to the sailor whose vampire he had so unceremoniously tried to bogart at the feast. Somehow, he didn't think the sailor minded so much. He was, however, speaking. Andrei watched his mouth carefully, watching as he spoke.

As he finished, he tapped the man on the shoulder. When he turned his way, Andrei gestured, holding up just the index finger, before bringing his right palm up flat where Benghi could see it. With his left index finger, he traced a line across the flat of his palm, then circled around the first knuckle of his middle finger repeatedly. Then, he drew the same line again, only stopping and marking an "x" where the right middle finger joined the palm before continuing on and circling along the bottom of the knuckle again. Pointing where he had traced the "x", he held up three, then four, then three, then four fingers. Pointing at the circle, he held up four, then five, then four, then five fingers.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She considered for a while before answering "They are both fine ideas, the first indicates that we have not been tainted with the founders ideas, and the second indicates that we are capable individuals and so worth having around", looking at the sailor, "however I would not be inclined to use either".

"To explain, I suspect that at least one of our sires may offer us their blood to show there faith and respect in us. They would indicate that this is a high honour for us and that refusing would be a terrible insult, and if they are the only kindred we have met then we would have no reason to refuse", shrugging, "it is what I might do in their position".

She forced herself to stop before explaining her thoughts on possible problems with saying that the learned such items from Roderigo.

"In brief I would like to keep as close as possible to the version of the truth we have been lead to accept", smiling "but I am happy to hear suggestions before making my own".

[Dark Seeker]

"I believe Lord Hardestadt wants to meet with you in person. He still views the lot of you with suspicion, sadly. He thinks that some of you may be seduced by your sires." Roderigo explains, his tone regretful.

He thinks on Benghi's question. "I was in the Earl's service long enough to know where some of his hideouts are. And Lord Hardestadt's source within the Conspiracy told us of their main base of operations. Perhaps you all dominated me to tell you where they were hidden. Or I was a prisoner of Hardestadt's as well and I offered to take you to them when you freed me."

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

"They might do that, true." Benghi winces. "Though I think they might do it regardless of what story may come up with. Wouldn't they be even more likely to demand additional steps to ensure loyalty the more contact we've had with Hardestadt and the rest? If they were told we were released they'd have even more of a reason to be suspicious than if they think we fled." The idea of mixing blood was starting to sound appealing - fighting fire with fire. Maybe that was the point? "Why, not even properly dead yet, and so cold and paranoid. I imagine that Jadviga wasn't half as mistaken as she thought," he grins wickedly.

He listens to Rodrigo absent-mindedly, thinking. "Right, it seems no side really trusts us much. Not surprising, really," he smirks. "Well, we were told to keep you alive, and I imagine the less you're supposed to do with the founders, the easier that may be. Did you serve the Earl long?"

The Genoese notices the woodsman's attempt to get his attention, and looks at him with confusion. He had initially wondered if the man was mute or just dumb - but apparently it was the former. He wasn't sure what to make of this strange communication, though, and his face clearly betrayed his lack of comprehension. "Er... Three, then four, afterwards four, then five?"

[JonRG]

Luca

"Yes, well, the Lord sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous," Luca replied with a chuckle. Hopefully, she wouldn't mind his permanent residence in the latter category. The lady certainly knew her way around a blade. He liked that. "It's always wise to be able to defend oneself rather than rely on others. Looks like your family thought the same."

Luca listened to the others talk for a while before he chimed in, "Escapes either happen in transit or not at all." Or at least, that's what thieves unlucky enough to be caught had told him. "I suggest the former, as it would rather handily explain why we have a carriage, possibly along with the weaponry. Also... Roderigo was the one to tell us about their blood magic in the first place, wasn't he? The Conspirators might be upset at the loss of that trump card, but we could just say that their faithful servant was trying to prevent our enslavement to the Founders." Luca shrugged.

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei resisted his urge to roll his eyes, although a small snort of frustration escaped his nose. Okay, let's try something bigger, slower and more emphatic.

Catching the sailor's eyes, he drew his hands shoulder-width apart, palms facing each other. Then, with his left hand, he pointed first with an index finger at the right palm, then jerked his thumb emphatically towards the back of the carriage. Then, returning his left palm to where it had been, he pointed with his right hand first at the palm, then at the front of the carriage.

He then returned his right palm to it's original position above his shoulder between himself and the sailor. His left hand first met the right, then drew apart again. Instead of going to the left shoulder, he stopped halfway between where he had placed his left and, with an emphatic gesture of his left index finger, marked an "x" in the air. He then pointed first at himself, then at the sailor, then at the doctor who was nearest to Benghi, and then pointed emphatically at the door. He then pointed at the others, held up his left hand where it had been, and pointed again at the front of the carriage.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She considered a game the nobles in Venice played, they took a person of low born blood and treated them as a peer in word and half in deed, the other half was an exercise in cruel games where the low born would not know the rules ... these games normally ended at the end of a night with the person beaten and sent away or paid and sent away depending on the noble and the night.

Sometimes they did not, they continued for days where political battle lines were drawn and the low born was encouraged to pick a side and make choices that may cost them, only for the whole meaningless game to be revealed and the noble rivals standing together laughing at the poor dumb fool.
She had been a player at the second at times tempting the person one way or another, she looked at Roderigo wondering if that was a roll he played between some similar game between Hardestadt and Giovanni.

She looked at the sailor "No I suspect she might not have been".

She turned to the possible noble who claimed to know lies "You make a good point, it is one I had considered but rejected for something unproven, thanks for noting it I suppose I should make sure the reason is correct", turning to Roderigo "does Giovanni know you are a ghoul and does he believe you bound to him?", she suspected not that story would write itself and the man would have likely suggested it. "Also did you drink the potion to protect you from their powers?", and ours she thought.

"I would prefer that any plan that we come up with includes that we were at the castle. If Hardestadt has spies in Giovanni's", she turned to Roderigo "and I would like to know who is the current one by the way", returning to face the group "then I would not be surprised to find that Giovanni has spies of his own. I would not wish the potion to be shown to be in affect on such situation where our initial story is hollow to them", shrugging "for all I know the ghosts of the murdered at the castle or the animals of the forest could be spying on us let alone the normal servants".

Seeing the man gesturing she stopped to observe, did he want a guard duty roster?, she was unsure.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

The sailor was preoccupied with this strange mute, trying to gather what the man wanted to say. "Er... one side continue, one side go back? We three leave in the middle, the rest - the nobler folk and their ilk - go on?"

[JonRG]

Luca

"So you, the sailor, and the-" Luca paused as he caught his first good look at Stefan. "Good Lord, man. What did that madwoman do to you?"

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei paused for a moment, and then held his left hand up, index finger and thumb an inch apart. He then pointed to the five others one at a time with his left hand. He then scrunched his four fingers together and rapidly flitted them against his thumb, imitating a duck. He held up one finger with his left hand while with his right he tapped his incisors as he pulled his lips back. Drawing his right hand down flat, he held his left hand perpendicular to the palm of his right as he wiggled his index and middle finger while moving the hand across the palm. Then, pointing to the three of them each at one time, he then made a sudden stabbing motion with his left hand, pounding the fist rapidly into the right palm.

[Dark Seeker]

"I have not been in the Earl's employ long, only about a year. Once Lord Hardestadt learned of the Conspiracy's plan, he entrusted me to infiltrate their group. With the help of his spies that were already in place, I was able to.

"The Earl has given me his blood more than thrice, so he believes I am thralled to him. In truth, I already had a fully formed bond with Lord Hardestadt, so his blood had no effect on me. I did not drink the potion," a disturbed look crosses his face as he realizes the implications. "It is unlikely any of the Conspiracy would bother with me. Aside from the Earl's occasional orders, the only one who paid me any attention was Lothar." Roderigo suppress a shudder.

"As for my Lords spies, I am unsure whom they are. He holds that close to his chest should one of the others become compromised. He may not even have any anymore, considering a significant amount of the servants were wiped out during the attack."

[JonRG]

Luca

"Don't worry yourself. Giovanni and Lothar will have their hands full with us. I doubt they'll feel the need or have the time to watch you." He wondered if Roderigo knew, while glancing in Stefan's direction. "Hardestadt's best spy is apparently no more, courtesy of our comrade. That information got back to Hardestadt somehow, though." Luca turned to Roderigo. "Did you tell him?" That would give an idea of who their new master might have on the inside. "As for Castle Deverick, I doubt we need to include it. If Giovanni were connected enough to have spies there, a debatable notion, they would already know Roderigo was a traitor, and we'd be killed the instant we arrived." He idly watched the deaf-mute gesticulate. "So... we're talking, and we have teeth, and we should... we walk and fight each other?" Luca blinked. "Does this have something to do with making it look like we actually escaped? Otherwise, you've completely lost me."

[BananaPhone]

With Luca, earlier:
Alenka emitted a low chuckle through closed lips. "My father wanted nothing of the sort. My brothers though, took me bear-hunting with them during the warm summer nights. The moon would shine brightly, the stars would catch in the leaves, it was spectacular..." she seemed to daze off, her mind elsewhere.

Snapping back to the present, her grin returned. "And what rain fell upon your handsome head as a gift from the Lord?" she inquired, a mischievous glint in her eye.



"We would display no signs of escape, as these new bodies of ours seem to mend themselves at an expeditious rate."

[JonRG]

With Alenka, earlier: Luca chuckled, now slightly nervous. He'd seduced a number of women in his life, but... never one that had intrigued him in kind, and certainly not a high-ranked noble. "Well, milady, it's been quite a long storm. Perhaps you and I could exchange tales... in private? There are... details best not overheard by others." He returned her mischievous smile.

"Bodies, yes. Clothes, however..." Luca rubbed his temples. "Think the Conspirators will believe we nipped out for a bit of shopping in the midst of our escape? Then again... Roderigo's resourceful. We might have been able to arrange something. God, this is complicated."

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She considered Roderigo's words, "Thank you, so we know that Hardestadt will take prisoners at times ... ourselves and Paul. Further we are taking it that Giovanni has no reason to suspect your loyalty, other then potential spies" she would come back to that.

"My suggestion is as that Roderigo was taken by Hardestadt with us for questioning. However perhaps due to his nature he was not treated as cautiously as us and he managed to secure our freedom and his own. So that he could return us to Giovanni, who he saw as still being our host", it was a story that was basically true and would if delivered correctly allow Roderigo to escape without lying once, unless you counted omissions and she did not.
It also allowed for Giovanni to have a win over Hardestadt as his servant bested him which would assist in Roderigo's survival.

"As said I would prefer to have been at the castle, both for the potential spy element" acknowledging the man with a glance "they may not exist, but if they do there is no need for then to know who was who merely to have seen and identified us. If Roderigo has served the Earl for a year spies may not recognise him. But perhaps I am overly cautious" returning to the group "but also to ensure that we do not slip on the story with knowledge that we have been told but which Roderigo does not possess. And also so that we can better use knowledge of the founders to turn the conspiracy on it's head, while offering it as a bargaining chip", stretching her shoulders in the armour "but in truth providing there are no avoidable holes in the story I can work with anything if you prefer to have saved yourselves".

She considered last night she had been able to grasp hold of attraction a basic element of the will of mankind, another was fear and a third which truly separated mankind from the animals was loyalty. If I can concentrate the unfocused attraction into a single area I may be able to replicate that, "Roderigo, I would like to attempt something with you which may allow for ease of the story and escape. With your permission?" she awaited his response.

[daelrog]

Solland had kept silent on all matters when it came to their story of why they had not met final death, one that did not admit they were planning to slay their sires. At least, he hoped that was still the plan.

In drab, brown longcloak he had all but disappeared into the background. Even his glowing amber eyes had been downcast. However, as there was little time left, he finally though to weigh in.

"I choose to put faith in Durga Syn's potion, no matter what our story is. I say we put the stories to a vote amongst ourselves and be done with it, each of us equal with one vote apiece for this one night if no other." He could see the ambition of many of them, and could tell fractions were already rife within the group. Still, if they could all respect one another to decide as equals something they had been debating for so long, they might yet have time to get to know each other before they reached their sires.

One note about Solland. I gave him two dots of the arcane background. Not enough to make it so no one's forgotten who he is, just enough to make him not very noticeable, which hopefully I've roleplayed well enough.

[JonRG]

Luca

"It's not about pride. It's about feasibility of escape," Luca snapped. "In transit, there were four guards to the seven of us, eight if you count Roderigo. At Castle Deverick, we were outnumbered ten to one at least. You couldn't even walk down a hallway without getting hassled. Roderigo is quite talented, but I doubt even he could extricate all of us from that fortress." He eyed the driver. "If I'm mistaken on that front, feel free to correct me. Not to mention, we're less one obnoxious Count." Thank heaven for small miracles. Luca didn't know what he'd do if he had to wrangle two odious fools. "Also, how does reaching the castle grant us any extra knowledge? Unless we were on his side, Hardestadt only wants to teach us what knives and sunlight feel like. If necessary, Roderigo could, you know, just tell us what he knows of Kindred society so we can avoid any guilty knowledge." He threw up his hands. Isabella was intolerably stubborn for a whore. "I just don't think it's feasible to plan and execute an escape from Castle Deverick in so little time, even if we were experts. If you want to pretend like you are, that's fine by me, but good luck getting anyone else to believe it. "

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He was not too fine with that woman being so quick to take leadership and provide her ideas as the course for the entire group - not that he cared for being on top, but he didn't agree with what she was saying. And perhaps he didn't care too much for her leading. Sure, they were all dead, but did that mean everything is wiped clean?

Well, maybe it was, he wasn't sure if there wasn't a Bible verse for that. There might have even been one for their state, though he wasn't sure he wanted to hear it right now. He let the others talk, tapping his knee as he thought over their ideas.

"Yes, it's a good idea to look like we've seen battle, whatever our version. If we escaped from the Earl's manor or in transit, we must have taken what we carry as spoils. If we escaped from the castle, then surely we must have been chased - and in fact, we may still be," he said, nodding to Luca.

The artist's suggestion of voting struck him as strange. Must be a guild thing, though he had seen the practice at times too. "We should try to agree all, since it is all our heads on the line. If we can't, maybe, but I'd rather everyone agrees to what we do out of their own will, not because more people wanted it done."

He did not consider himself a masterful tactician or criminal, but he tended to agree with Luca on this. Perhaps informants were all Isabella had to worry about in her line of work, but that was a goddamn vampire lord with a castle and an army. "Isabella, we can't fully discount the possibility of spies, but the Earl was caught by surprise by the army at his door, I think, and he's been in hiding ever since. So if he had someone, they missed an army gathering. If he even stays in touch with them, would he trust them so much?"

Sure, if the Earl DID have spies, DID get in touch with them and DID trust them, they would be in a mess. However, he wasn't sure just how much Durga Syn's witchery would hold, and escaping from a large castle, day or night would seem to be a nigh-incredible feat. "I'm not sure how believable that magic could make us, but persuading them we escaped from inside the castle seems the hardest lie," he said, shaking his head. "Think about it. We were taken prisoners; we'd be stored in the hardest, most difficult cells with guards who know what we can do - because they serve someone like us, only much stronger. At night, there's vampires, ghouls and regular guards to get past. At day, all kindred sleep - us and they - and Rodrigo has to free and smuggle us out in broad daylight, and also get us armed, sounds impossible either way Plus, if we'd been in the castle and escaped, Hardestadt would likely bring his whole army after us. The Giovanni won't like it if we come to him with them in tail.".

He was getting a little exasperated. At other times, he may have tried to shut someone like that up by force, but now... he couldn't afford a traitor, and she could be useful. Chances are, she might be even better at getting people to do things her way than the nobles - and with that face... He sighed reflexively. Damn it, he told himself, the last time he thought with that head he practically leapt in Dimitra's claws. Not that he would have gone too far running, but still... "Look, there ain't no easy way out if he's as well-informed as you think, but I say it might be a lot easier to just persuade them their agents were wrong - that they reported the rumor that we were caught, not our actual arrival. Remember, the Earl feared Hardestadt so much that he sacrificed a keep and servants to delay him a little." He sacrificed them, too, he thought.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"What if Roderigo was able to steal us away during a daylight transit to Hardestadt's castle?" Seth asks.

"We were pursued by Hardestadt's men, so Roderigo refused to run to Giovanni's hideaway, instead traveling in a different direction," Seth continues, "last night, we were able to abmush a group of his human trackers and slay them, taking their equipment. We then were able to convince Roderigo to take us to Giovanni, because Hardestadt was sure to find us eventually and kill us all. Our only hope would be to ally with Giovanni and pray he can protect us from Hardestadt. All we need is some blood to cover our equipment with."

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi shakes his head, looking at the doctor. "Don't see it. He'd still have to smuggle us out of the castle, mind you. We'd be prisoners, so we'd be in cells. During the day we're as handy as stiffs. He'd have to go past any guards, take us out, arrange transport, and leave with us in tow, keeping us from the sun all that while. That's the kind of feat you'd hear in a fairy tale in."

That was part of it, he thinks as he realizes something else. And think of this: if the Giovanni does have spies, they'd be sure to have heard of the uproar of us slipping Hardestadt's own castle. If he's anything like I think him to be, he'd gut half the men on the watch - and make the other half wish they'd gotten away that easy. Any informants can't possibly miss the fit he'd throw." He preferred not to think of the option the Earl HAD informants and they had given him the true version of events. They were probably seen by quite a lot of servants, conversing with their "mentors" or going around the castle, unimpeded. He tried to get that thought out of his head. Hardestadt couldn't be that foolish, even if he wanted the young kindred dead that would expose his own plans... "I guess we have to hope Hardestadt really wants to stop that Giovanni, huh," he mutters.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"I think you misunderstand," Seth replies, holding up an index finger, "I agree escaping the castle is very far fetched. Remember though, we were in a lightless carriage when we were brought from Giovanni's keep to Hardestadt's castle; what if we never made it there? What if Roderigo stole the carriage with us inside, while Hardestadt slumbered?"

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He nods with understanding. "Ah, right. Well, that would be a bit easier. Why during daytime, though? He'd be a lot more vulnerable alone then during nighttime, when we could help and would have the guards mostly looking at us.It would take the elders out of the equation," he adds, calculating the odds, "but I don't see why Hardestadt would bother waiting for daylight to transport us."

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"Because he did transport us during the day," Seth replies, "that much is true, remember? We don't know why, maybe he spent the whole night looking for Giovanni. If it were at night Hardestadt and his vampire followers would destroy us easily. The only problem is this story might cause them to question Roderigo more closely..."

Seth turns to Roderigo expectingly.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka was not a thief. Nor was she an infiltrator or master assassin who was used to planning getaways. But, nevertheless, she was going to give this "escape planning" business a shot.

"We need not have even been in transit.

Hardestadt wanted us destroyed. After apprehending us and destroying several of us, by which I mean that brute soldier and...Maria, was it?...he had no further use of us and ordered us staked so that we could be thrown out for the sunrise and ordered the task completed by some human underlings while he and his retinue departed to formulate plans of pursuing Giovanni and co.

Fortunately for us, Roderigo and a few remnants of Giovanni's guards ambushed Hardestadts men in the wilderness. Giovanni's men paid for a distraction with their lives while Roderigo removed our stakes - freeing us from our paralysis and allowing us to overpower the human soldiers easily.

With our apprehenders dead and Hardestadt believing us destroyed for the time being, we salvaged their equipment, took their carriage and were led by Roderigo to one of the further hideouts that the Giovanni used. While there, he informed us of what we are and our future fortunes beneath the conspirators vision for the future of vampire-kind. With nothing else left to us in the world and enticed by his words, we followed Roderigo back to them in the hope that he spoke a modicum of truth."

With that, Alenka finished speaking. She wasn't one for doubting her words, but this was an area outside her expertise - hopefully it would not make her look too foolish.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Her mouth opened a fraction to continue, the creatures of the night can control the beasts the stories said, and the spirits of the dead, and a thousand other things, and even a single bird or shade would give the lie away, but she had said as much already and been ignored, knowledge of the founders could be useful, they could indicate doubts and worries in the group, indications of traitors in the conspiracy that we learned of prior to escape but on this too she had said as much already and been ignored, the potion should protect us from the lies of our mythical escape so we may as well use it to our best advantage she considered.

Her mouth closed in a smile she thought of her words, but in truth providing there are no avoidable holes in the story I can work with anything if you prefer to have saved yourselves, if others would not agree with her thinking then the holes were unavoidable, and to be fair she didn't care to argue the point. She could take care of herself if the matter arose that she was caught out ... she always had in the past, as such there was no need to care about whatever story was told.

Her smile turned serene and she lay back to rest in the coach waiting for Roderigo to answer her question. her eyes closed.

Solland's plan suited her, in concept she liked the idea if a merit based approach where the victor was the one that managed to convince the most of the others of the rightness, but those of noble birth would likely object, and she had seemingly lost the decision before it began anyway.
Still credit to the man.

Considering the games in Venice it was possible the others were merely actors guiding the story of there lords down a pre-chosen path and that her input was irrelevant to the story that would come to pass, she mulled it was a semi-humorous thought.

Her eyes opened and she looked at the sailor and the noble, there was no deceit or poor intention the deep green orbs merely relaxed honesty, "I have said my piece but I will work with whatever the consensus is. Choose whatever you like" shrugging lazily "if it falls apart I can adapt", leaning back to relax further, "I simple don't care enough to argue it further", her Italian accent obvious despite the Romanian words as she could not be bothered to hide it as she normally might do.

[Karnius]

Stefan stirs, shaking himself awake and forcing his stiff limbs to move. The aching emptiness that seemed to have hollowed out his insides appears to have expanded to press against his skin. The doctor shifts in his seat, feeling the leather armour and the long knife hung from his belt (both taken from the armoury as an afterthought rather than with any intention of having to use them). Blinking languidly Stefan focuses on what's been said to him and opens his mouth to reply to Golescu, coughing slightly as the taste of Durga Syn's concoction reawakens on his tongue.

"'m fine. I'm alright...'some stuff to do after we're done here."

Stefan shivers slightly at the mention of Hardestadt's spy as he recalled the bloody, painful and ultimately exciting memory of the poor man's death. The many and varied stories proposed by the group all sound fairly plausible to the doctor. I can't fault any of these lies. We could just pick one, go to the inn, follow Hardestadt's plan and see how things go...but we still have to work out what we're going with. Best to leave it to those with ideas. I'm not sure I'll be much good to the plan right now anyway.

Stefan clears his throat and speaks, this time to the group. "I'll try to help however I can with whatever we decide, but I don't have any ideas myself."

[Dark Seeker]

Roderigo shakes his head at Luca's question.

"No. I'm not sure who did. One of the servants perhaps. In any event, I did not know the servant Sir Stefan killed was a spy, and even if I had, I'd have not wished to give my Lord another reason to execute the lot of you."

He looks at Isabella with some distrust. Indeed, he seems uncomfortable in her very presence.

"If... you think it would help you and the rest survive, you may." He gives her permission to practice her powers on him, though he clearly feels reluctant to.

"Tell whatever story you are the most satisfied with lads. I spent a year in that hellhole. I know how to deal with the Earl." His voice takes on a steely determination.

[JonRG]

Luca

He smiled at Alenka's proposition. "Your idea holds some merit. Hardestadt destroyed us one by one until we told him we knew nothing, then staked the survivors and left them for the sunrise. It would handily explain the thinning of our ranks, as opposed to mere happenstance that we were rescued while they were not."

Luca then turned to Isabella. "Pardon? You will work with? Just because your clanmate leads the Founders does not put you in charge. We're all on the same plane here." His cover was shaky by now, but he didn't care. "So... the consensus seems to be that we could not escape from Castle Deverick in one night. Therefore, we either escaped in transit or were left to die as Lady Vasa proposed. Now, we should not hammer out every little detail of our escape. That's the flaw of amateur liars. They elaborate too much." Luca gave Isabella a pointed look. "Agree on the general picture and keep the story vague. The Conspirators will fill in the rest."

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She did not open her eyes or tense as the words continued, "Work with, be enthused for, appreciate the brilliance of, whichever version you prefer", her voice light calm and relaxed.
"Although I would advise that any plan we have includes a simple element, namely that of any of us are operating under deception for which our sires are aware they drop it before we reach Giovanni rather then show the affects of the potion instantly", she stretched her arms out in front of her to feel the movement and retreated them, "any plan will have issues how we adapt to them will be more important then the details anyway".

"Roderigo, I will be plain you have helped us and I do not want to force something on you that you do not want. Last night I felt that I might be able to control attraction and respect in a general sense, I have been considering it and I wish to to attempt to focus that on an individual. Both to see if I am capable of it and if and moreso to see if I am capable of influencing one who is under the blood-bond", covering her mouth with a hand to hid a yawn - a indulgence she would not normally have taken except when at home she had had a difficult few days and had chosen to relax, "should this work it may effectively make you a slave to my whims - pure lust, love and loyalty guiding you to serve me".

She opened her eyes slowly - annoyed that the following demanded that she ensure the man took her seriously. She turned to the man looking into his eyes and making sure he held her gaze, "You have helped me - and I can count on one hand the people I feel I owe anything too either positive or negative - as such I will not attempt to force this on you without you being absolutely sure that you are willing to suffer the affects of success", her tone turned deathly serious "so I ask again is the attempt acceptable to you?".

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"Actually, I like Alenka's story the best," Seth says, "let anyone who disagrees speak now, for we must be as one on this when we confront the rebels... sorry, when we meet the Earl."

[JonRG]

Luca

"No, I like it as well. It would be far easier for us to escape while left for dead than while transported as prisoners." Luca glanced at Alenka and teased, "Have you done this sort of thing before?"

[Dark Seeker]

Roderigo swallows before answering Isabella. "Do whatever you will lass. Better I be bewitched by you if that should prevent me from attracting the attention of your sires."

"Whah!"

The carriage suddenly comes to a jerking halt. Any whom look past Roderigo can see why. Sitting in the middle of the road is a small black cat. Seth recognizes it as the one Lady Amisa intended him to sacrifice. But what in the world was it doing here?

[dancrilis]

Isabella

That was all the permission she needed and she would have tried it right then and there when that carriage was rocked as it came to a halt, still what better time then when Roderigo was distracted to see if it would work.


Entrancement*: Appearance + Empathy (speciality would apply), Diff Rodrigo's willpower; [roll0]
Again the DA and the VtM revised use different pools, I understand that V20 is the same as VtM revised (I intend to get the book shortly).

I am actually unsure if this would work, I suspect that both would be in affect with the bloodbond being primary, but lets see where it takes us.


A simple command first to test, "the cat will move, no need to stop".

Observing Roderigo carefully she addressed the others over her shoulder, "sure whatever you like the sound of" her voice disinterested in the story.

Mulling it over so they had been abandoned rather then simple killed because leaving potential enemies to die and walking away was some way superior to simple killing us, sure why not.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi gives some thought about the proposals made thus far, and nods. "It explains things and sounds plausible. It is okay with me," and adds, shaking his head at Luca. "It's not the right time for anger among each other. Figure out who leads later. For now, as I said, it is too important to have everyone on board to snub each other."

Isabella's suggestion surprised him at first, but he realized that Rodrigo would have to appear charmed, and a woman like her - or like what she was - could turn any man's head even without her magic. Still, he couldn't quite keep silent. "What is it with you and lust," he said with mock resignation, but he can't quite keep the grin off his face.

At the bump of the road, he curses quietly and looks out. Seeing the cat, he raises an eyebrow at the thing and motions to Isabella to stop. "Wait a second. That close the cat should have already fled, there may be something here. Keep an eye out," he tells the rest and steps out, eyeing the near bushes before approaching the animal. "Hey, little one," he says in his quiet, peculiar inflection as he reaches for a pouch where he keeps some scraps taken from the castle. "You're a strange one, waiting here on the road. What are you doing here? Hmmmmrrr?", he says, starting to purr at the cat.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"Cat!" Seth exclaims, dismounting from the carriage, "how in the world did you find us again?"

Seth opens his arms wide as if welcoming the cat to leap back into his arms.

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei watched as the nobleman, the one whose smile never reached his eyes, floundered about. The sailor seemed completely lost and flagging in interest. So he began directing his gesticulations at the nobleman instead.

Emphatically, he pointed out each person in the carriage one at a time. He then held up his right hand with one index finger raised, shaking it slightly for emphasis. He then put his hands palms together, then split them apart. Raising his right hand again, he held up two fingers, again shaking it slightly for emphasis.

Raising an index finger on his left, he tapped it several times with his right hand. He then put his left hand on his throat and rubbed it up and down while opening and closing his mouth. He then tapped the second finger of his left hand with his right. Pointing at the sailor, himself and the man next to the sailor, he drew out the dagger he held in his belt and drove it up and down in the air repeatedly, vigorously stabbing something invisible. He then put his dagger back and, with raised eyebrows, looked expectantly at the nobleman. Come on, you're smart enough to follow that.

He was thrown sideways when the carriage stopped. He then opened the door and hopped out. Turning back towards the rest of the group, he looked up expectantly. Pointing again at the sailor and the man next to him, he pointed towards his feet.

[Dark Seeker]

Roderigo's eyes glaze over, and he nods vacantly. "Right."

He pushes the horses forward, and the carriage begins to bear down on the cat. Thankfully, the feline is able to jump out of the way with a few seconds to spare.

Roderigo seems to regain control and brings the carriage to a stop. He looks vaguely horrified at what he just did, but says nothing.

Benghi sees nothing else in the road or surrounding woods.

The cat leaps nimbly into Seth's arms. it arches it's head as Benghi communicates. "You are not my chosen, dead one." It curls against Seth's arms for emphasis.

"I have heard of some animals being made servants by the blood." Roderigo explains, his voice still slightly shaky. "Did it ingest any of yours, my Lord?"

He notices Andrei's frantic gesturing. "We'll have to get him a quill and some paper at the earliest opportunity."

[JonRG]

Luca

Uninterested in either the cat or the whore, Luca kept his attentions squarely on the deaf man. "C'mon, you're smart. Learned a dozen different cants and hand signals from the guild. Walk... attack... one. One. Of course!" Luca cleared his throat. "You want us to split up to attack the Conspirators?" He received a half-nod of assent. "In that case, might I suggest..." Luca placed his index fingers next to each other, then drew them quickly apart.

"It's a respectable idea, one that I considered, but why would we have separated?" He glanced at Isabella. "Well, perhaps we know why, but... what do we gain from it? While divide and conquer is a good strategy in theory, Giovanni will likely order all of us destroyed if he smells even a single rat."

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei pointed at the noble and enthusiastically nodded . . . before the cart carried the man out of sight momentarily. Andrei, surprised, broke into a sprint after the cart, halting only after catching up. He frowned at Roderigo before looking back at the noble.

He brought his palms together again before splitting them apart. With his right hand scrunched up, he brought his four fingers together, folding them over his thumb repeatedly. His left hand brought out the knife again and vigorously stabbed something invisible before sheathing the blade again. Pointing in the direction the carriage was headed, his left hand then tapped his head then counted three fingers, then four fingers, then all five before shrugging and shaking his head.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Addressing her country man when he asked about lust, "if you are serious in your desire to know then ask again in private, but it is not a story many find pleasant", her voice bored as she watched Roderigo, as he moved towards the cat she almost had him stop but waited to long, the man did seem to be affected. This would require study.

So they knew the cat, a being that had seemed to tract us to the castle and know who we were, she suspected no-one else would find this suspicious.

"Thank you for that knowledge Roderigo, can they make able spies?", her voice light behind him.

She overheard the man behind her, so the mute was indicating her idea from the night before with his gesturing - assuming the noble was correct, as least the mute had not been present it was a solid plan if handled well, reasonable minds thought alike apparently.
She could not suppress a gentle smile as he claimed to have had a similar idea, of course he had she had given it to him, but he likely merely liked the sound of his own voice and would not remember the conversation the previous night ... she wondered how long it would take him to suggest that they visited the castle.

Looking back at the cat, she fixed it with a look trying to understand it's intentions, she smiled at the animal it was not a pleasant smile.

[The_Shaman]

"Seems it's taken a liking to you," Benghi says to the man, raising an eyebrow. "Quite curious, I gotta say. Cats seem to like places more than the people in them, usually, that's what I've seen."

He scans the nearby bushes again, shaking his head. He can't see anything, but that is quite strange. "How'd you know where we'd be," he said, half to himself, eyeing the cat curiously. He wishes he could tell if this cat was somehow possessed... absurd as it may seem, he is a bit worried. Then he thinks of his own practice, and frowns. If he can make an animal seek someone, someone much better could make it do so much more. Was it a spy sent by some of conspiracy? An unlikely tracker... Hearing the Venetian behind him, he wonders if she was thinking the same thing. She does seem paranoid... "If it did ingest some, would it become smarter as well?" he asked Rodrigo curiously, and looked back towards the carriage.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"No, I didn't give it any blood," Seth replies, "though... I did speak to its mind in the castle, I think..."
The older man thinks back.

"Yes, I saw it watching us from a doorway as Hardestadt's men were battering down the door, and mentally begged it to leave," he says.

He scratched the cat behind its ears.

"It is odd you managed to find us, isn't it though," he remarks. Seth glances up at the others, a look of concern on his face, then cranes his neck down, in an attempt to look the creature in the eyes.

"How did you find us?" he asks.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka smiled to herself; people seemed to like her idea. Excellent.

Luca chimed in, "Have you done this sort of thing before?"

The countess rose a slender, yellow eyebrow.

"Oh yes." she answered.

"Didn't you play generate-the-cover-story-to-fool-a-coven-of-vampire-lords when you were a child?" she smirked.

[Dark Seeker]

"Some of them can make good spies. Kindred blood increases their resourcefulness. Of course, it also depends on the animal."

The cat returns Isabella stare, unintimated. It licks itself.

Roderigo continues. "It would become stronger, and would be more devoted to its master. Lord Josef keeps a pack of rats for various errands. I never really asked what. I don't like rats. But many kindred prefer animal ghouls to human ones."

Seth attempts to speak to the cat. Oddly enough, something inside himself clicks, and he feels as if he's speaking the cat's language. The rest of the party hears him purring to the cat, perhaps wondering if he's lost his mind.

If the feline is surprised, it does not show it. "You are my chosen, dead thing. You spared me even though it provoked the anger of the unpleasant one. Since then, I feel drawn to you."

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He nods at Rodrigo, and approaches him, looking for telltale traces. He'd have to let Seth know, just in case - maybe it was just some strange attraction, but he wasn't sure whoever was governing their fates was in such a mood to arrange small favors like that. "Hmm, that does sounds useful... actually, are there any telltale traces that one could recognize ghouls by? You seem normal enough, to me at least."

After finishing the talk with the ghoul, he goes back to the carriage, maybe intruding on whatever conversation is still going on. He remembers Isabella's words, and though he wonders if it's not some sort of ploy, he shrugs as he makes himself comfortable again. "Eh, I've heard a few bad tales. What's one more? Let me know when you're in a telling mood."

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"He says he's drawn to because I saved his life, which I suppose I did," Seth says, "and it appears I can speak to animals now, or at the very least, this cat. How curious."

Seth walks back to the carriage and sits. The cat curled up in his lap.

"We should prepare before appearing before the Earl," he says, "our equipment is of too high quality to have endured a defeat in battle."

"On a more personal note, the older vampires were able to use magic," he continues, "were any of your tutors able to bring forth any magic powers from you? Mine was not aware of my lineage's abilities..."

[dancrilis]

Isabella

"So a cat possible bound to one of our sires, that stalked us from the one castle to another one, and had the presence of mind to stay hidden", her voice calm and bored, "are we killing it, taking it with us, or leaving it here?".

Looking at the sailor "Sure I imagine that we will be staying in a inn of noble castle while making or way to the Earl's, we can discuss my stories there" she smiled sweetly at the man.

"Roderigo where would you suggest we stay for the day, perhaps a mortal noble without kindred protection who we may be able to turn to our service", a gift to Giovanni might be useful, as might showing him that they had competence.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka smiled as the old man brought a cat inside the carriage.

Reaching out and, if Seth would permit her, she affectionately pet the cat around its soft little head. The small animal reminded her of Herman, her own little cat that she had left back at the village surrounding Giovanni's manse. Alas...what had become of the feline she did not know.

[Dark Seeker]

"Most ghouls look normal, though there are ways to tell. Many of us develop some of the traits of our master's clans. A Nosferatu ghoul sometimes develops a rash. A Malkavian ghoul sometimes loses their mind. Feeding off Lord Hardestadt's, I have been fortunate to avoid most ill side effects. Although even I find that my diet must now consist of higher quality food then before."

The coachman looks at Isabella, still noticeably uncomfortable.
"Actually my Lady, we should be arriving at the Earl's hideout within a few hours. Provided the roads are clear, of course. Speaking of, we should probably begin traveling again I'd hate for us to be caught outside at dawn. So if you all are ready?' The carriage begins to move again, and soon picks up a brisk pace.

The cat seems content to curl up in Seth's lap. It is not long before it has drifted off.

Feel free to post any final thoughts, any further ironing out of your plan, so forth. Next post will be the arrival at the Earl's hideout.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

"Well, that's out of the way," Benghi remarked, then turned to Seth. "Although it's incredibly strange that this cat has followed us, much less found us. It could be fate, but I've been told that some among our kin can make animals make wondrous things. It could be a pawn or a ghoul of the conspirators."

Some time later, on the way, he thinks towards the preparations for the meeting again. "So if we had a fight, our clothes and gear may be a bit more worn, perhaps with a rent or two. We are following the "servants plus Rodrigo saved us" plan, yes? I think you wanted a split, but that would cause some problems with working together - we need every edge we can get, I think" he added, turning to Andrei with a somewhat apologetic shrug.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She was happy the sailor had the sense to suspect the cat at the least, perhaps it was an Italian trait, no she had seen to much at home to believe that.

At Roderigo words "Ah, a pity. I would have liked to come baring gifts", her voice light and sad, "so do you feel additional loyalty, I still need to know if that worked, and could you describe it if any feelings are present?".
She had felt something work, now to find out what.

"To business I suppose" she voice became crisp and clear again, "Jadviga is a cruel woman who enjoys watching the suffering of others. She is unlikely to have any loyalty born out of anything but fear and magic amongst her servants. The only power I am certain she has is the power to place certain commands in your mind, which the potion should protect from but it may be important to keep up appearances. She has a temper and may be provoked to action to her detriment. Still I would not be inclined to underestimate her", her voice turned bored again, "that is about all I know of her. If any of you feel like sharing the powers and personalities of your sires I would quite like to hear about".
It was no more then she asked Hardestadt and been told that it was for her to find out on her own, she wondered if any here would share easier.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca was pondering Andrei's latest set of clues when Alenka chimed in with her question. "No, we played... different sort of games." He shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Fortunately, Seth's return with a feline in his arms distracted the young noblewoman. Luca nodded at Benghi's words. "Yes, we'll have to be sure to find time for that before we meet the earl." He eyed his fine jacket. That would probably have to stay in the cart. Oh well. "Nothing really of note to say about Gabrin. Man's a mystery."

[daelrog]

"Sire Wenceslas believes in suffering too. He patrons artists through pain. He can draw admiration, even affection from a person. Arrogant, cruel, without compassion. Above all I think the man is a coward. He is no soldier."

[Dark Seeker]

"I feel.... I feel as though you are the second most important being in the world, only behind Lord Hardestadt. I know you have used some form of power on me, but it feels completely natural to serve you and obey your every command. I love you, despite finding something about you very repulsive." Roderigo babbled, enchanted. "Lord above help me."
***

The trip takes about three and a half hours. The road is bumpy and goes over some rough terrain, but Roderigo is a skillful driver. Were it not for the dangers awaiting the fledglings at the destination, the ride would actually have been quite pleasant.

Slowly, the party can make out a building on the horizon. It is a large stone structure, more reminiscent of a manse then an inn. Clearly, The Earl did not believe in humble accommodations. A large sign overlooks the structure.


Inn of the Lion. Established 1378.

A barn stands against the inn's wooden wall. Several stable hands walk listlessly back and forth. Roderigo slows the carriage to a stop, and a few of the boys approach. Silently, they take the carriage from him and bid everyone out.

The coachman looks at the party. "Are you all ready for this lads? Once we go inside, I'm going to be silent. It would raise suspicion were I to act without your approval. Once we our inside, you must act as though you are my masters." He falls to the back of the group, allowing all of the young vampires to enter the inn first.

The interior of the inn is poorly lit by small fires burning in immense fireplaces. A number of large tables flood the common room, each of them possessing a single small candle for some further light.

The fledglings see no sign of their sires. The only people visible area young girl and an old man. The girl is about nine, and is spreading fresh straw on the floor. The older man appears to be the innkeeper. He looks briefly at the characters before looking down again.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Conversation in the Carriage:
Benghi listens attentively, tapping his chin as he leans back in the seat. "Dimitra is proud, and believes herself a great huntress with little patience for civilize fops. That belief is quite justified, apparently. She has no love for the church or the law of man. Passionate, and still clinging to "old ways," whatever that means. She would much rather hunt openly than in the shadows, and bring down her prey with bare hands than a weapon - though from what I heard, her... our line has powers that could make Proteus envious." He wasn't sure if that meant changing one's form into that of another - he expected Milov would have mentioned it when describing what powers it did include, but still.

"Expect her to be tough as the rocks, speak to the soul of beasts, and... well, apparently change her shape somewhat. I am not quite sure why she bothers with this Earl - perhaps more to spite his enemies than any reason of her own. Should it come to a physical confrontation, I imagine she may be even more dangerous than most. I'm not so sure about her loyalty to the Giovanni cause, though -I do not see her having any great respect for the man, nor worry much for company - any company, in fact."

As they near the inn, Benghi's eyes narrow and he grows silent. He inhales and exhales slowly to calm his nerves. He checks his gear and makes it appear a bit more used, mentioning off-handedly to the others "Scuffle, right?" He then leans back and closes his eyes, and tries to remove himself from the noises of the road and reach the calm within him. He has done it many times before when he needed to steel himself for a challenge, but it seems different somehow. On one hand, many of the emotions and physical distractions are gone - on the other, something stronger has taken their place, a loud, piercing keening of thirst and rage rather than the discord of a hundred quiet noises.

Well, he thinks, it seems that's how it will be. I better get used to it. I remember what I promised, Lord, may you see fit to aid me on my course.

He opens his eyes as they stop, and looks around. He does not seem so high-strung now and rises to go out. Before he leaves, he whispers. "Someone else better talk to the Earl. I'll try to keep my anger in place, but I'd rather see him as little as possible - and I'm not that good in hiding my emotions."

He walks out first, looking not too much unlike a soldier or a somewhat successful bandit. He looks around, checking the inn warily, before barking out a "Right, seems clear." He then waits for the others before heading inside. He seems a bit surprised at how empty the inn is, but leaves talking to the others - for now.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

So her powers were reasonable to explain why Roderigo would lead them to his masters, but repulsive? Was this a natural check on the power a prevention of using it as when love and devotion were off they were commonly replaced with hate and loathing.
The implications were that it would be best to secure the allegiance with blood.

"Repulsive?", her voice had a wounded tone, deliberate to see how the man would react, "did you feel that about me before and when did it begin", was it that she was dead. Alenka had suffered a biting issue, perhaps she suffered an interaction issue.

This knowledge - from the power or herself - could be useful to know.

She settled in to hear if any of the others would share, the noble did not know or would not say, the quite man who she constantly overlooked indicated his sire had powers similar to her own.

She continued to listen in silence to the sounds of the carriage.

**************
She smiled as Roderigo helped her out of the carriage, and waved at the lads come to assist them with an easy smile, young enough that they may be food, her smile was shy but somehow inviting designed to encourage but promise nothing.

At Roderigo indication, "do not worry, we will protect you. I trust you to handle yourself well. You have been to date", she smiled at him.
Acting the master to someone bound to her whim seemed a simple chore, but she would prefer not to force things on him ... though a gentle corruption of the man's nature may be a suitable gift to Hardestadt for his treatment of her.

Her eyes scan the room noting the fires, the sparseness of it, the innkeeper who she moved to approach ... and the girl.

She froze midstep - inside her something primal and vicious grasped a hold of her, images flashed before her eyes herself as the child in very different scenes, herself as she was now the girl before her eyes plucked from her head, the girls battered body screaming in a cage, the thing inside her curled her lips in a smile ... then images of a good life the girl growing old and having a family, her first kiss, singing to her own child, mourning the loss of a loved one things that Isabella had do scope to process and the thing in her was filled with disgust ... end it the voice almost screamed remove this blight.


Thirst of Innocence:
Self-Control: [roll0]

Lets she where this takes us.

[dancrilis]

OOC:

Dammit I was actually wondering how to respond to that roll - I could have enjoyed writing it ... but used d6's instead of d10's.

Thirst of Innocence:
Self-Control: [roll0]
Lets she where this takes us this time.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
Seth uses his dagger and tears his cloak somewhat, and puts some slash marks onto his armor.

"I know nothing of my sire's powers, just that she wished to corrupt my so-called purity, and was upset when I did not do as she wished," he says.

He spends the rest of the ride stroking the cat's fur, occasionally purring or meowing to it.

Cat:
"Do you have a name? If not, I shall call you Osiris. It is a powerful name from the people of my homeland. They considered cats to be sacred."

Later:
"We are walking into the enemy's lair. You should take some of my blood before we get there, it will make you stronger." Seth pricks his finger with the dagger and lets Osiris lick them from the wound.


Later, at the inn, Seth disembarks from the carriage and places Osiris on the ground. Upon entering the inn, he stands off to one side of the group and keeps an eye open for anything out of the ordinary. The fact that the innkeeper did not greet them seemed odd, but it appeared Isabella wished to say something, so he kept his peace.

It will be Osiris' choice whether he wants to come into the inn or not.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka pursed her lips. She'd rather not speak about Valdemaar, but she knew it was a necessity. Her reluctance was not born frmo loyalty but rather the idea of giving that harlot any sliver of information about her clan, or any others amongst their brood that had eyes for treachery.

"Lord Valdemar commands the shadows. He can command your own shadow to apprehend you. He can also control your mind and possesses enough physical prowess to uppercut your head clean off.

I would prefer to avoid that fate."


oOo

Alenka enterd the inn and felt comforted by its humble decorations. Having little need for the opulance of life, the countess found the idea of sleeping here hardly offensive at all - though she would certainly not pay for it.

If the inn-keeper expected her to pay to sleep in this filthy hole he had another thing coming.

[Dark Seeker]

Isabella
"I'm sorry!" Roderigo says, almost reflexively. "I meant no offense. Something about you is just most unholy. Perhaps it is an after effect of the embrace. I'm given to believe that it occasionally causes strange side effects. But you are still a lovely being.."

Seth
"This name is adequate. Your people are quite sensible, dead thing."
***

Osiris drinks of his new master. He lets out a long purr. He follows Seth inside the inn.

Isabella looks at the child. The girl was so innocent, so pure. It disgusted her. She felt an anger building, and then a burst, and then she had no control at all. She flung her body at the girl, who let out a startled scream. She had to kill her, had to remove her beauty from this world.

The innkeeper says nothing.

I'm going to rule that it will take a turn for Isabella to reach the girl. Any of the rest of you can feel free to stop her. Or you know, let her kill an innocent girl. Your choice. :smallbiggrin:

[JonRG]

Luca

Great. Not five minutes in polite society, and one of their number had already gone insane. Luca was frankly surprised that it had been Isabella, rather than say, himself. Nevertheless, he sprung into action with a barked command of, "Run!" to the girl. Luca charged Isabella, filled with anger towards her, anxiety about their cover, and even a twinge of concern for the child.The blood in his veins resonated and strengthened his limbs. "What in the name-

Luca will spend three BP to boost his strength, thereby giving him a die pool of 6 for his Tackle maneuver.

Tackle: [roll0]

And, since I feel optimistic, I'll roll my Dex+Athletics to avoid Knockdown.

Dex+Athletics: [roll1]

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei was the last one out of the carriage, his face still furrowed together in frustration. It hadn't struck him as a particularly hard concept, but he guessed that the rest were frightened and searching for safety in numbers. The trouble, of course, is that when the things you're hunting are stronger individually and are in greater numbers, "strength in numbers" is the principle working against rather than for you.

What would work for them, however, was the thing he'd already seen work: turning their expectations against them. Andrei had beaten the Turk not because he was faster or stronger or had greater numbers. It was because the Turk expected Andrei to come at him directly. Lothar was a boor and, Andrei suspected strongly, a lech, and it was Andrei's experience that absent careful consideration, people always expected other people to think as they would. By combining surprise and an understanding of his opponents, he had beaten the Turk simply by giving him exactly what he expected before pulling the rug out from under him.

His plan worked on essentially the same principle. Andrei was virtually useless in social situations, so his ability to add anything to the coming talk with the Conspirators came mostly from staying out of the way and not making any sudden moves. But he knew how to hunt, and he knew how to trap. So if he could have gotten two or three of his friends out into the wilderness, he had suspected he could have rigged up something that would drop even a vampire. The other group only had to stay alive and talk out the elders one at a time. But it hinged on convincing people when he was useless in social situations. So he had failed utterly to convince.

His thoughts were interrupted by the sudden change in behavior of the harlot in front of him. During the carriage ride, it seemed as if the others could barely get her to stop talking; not for the last time, he considered that his deafness might be a blessing in disguise. And for some reason, she kept doing something that made poor Roderigo desperately uncomfortable. But her manner changed completely while stepping through the door. He could see her sinews coiling and tensing. Following her line of sight, he caught sight of the young girl. His mind flashed two sequential images. The first was a wolf springing on a frozen rabbit. The second were the eyes of the young serving girl he hadn't been able to save in Giovanni's palace.

He never retained any conscious recollection of retrieving his plain short bow or an arrow. He just automatically had them in his hands, nocking the arrow and drawing even as the harlot began to move. Time seemed to slow as his movements retained their usual speed. Vaguely, he could hear the monster within him surge, giving his hands more stability and speed than he ever recalled in his first life. But all else was quiet. His mind went blank as he drew, exhaled and released save for one thought. His one memory was Josef's admission that wood driven through the heart could paralyze a vampire.

Now was as good a time as any to test the notion.


Rrrg. My online version of VTM could really use an index. In any case, I'm pretty sure that so long as I only spend bp's to beef my abilities up their generational maximum, they last for the rest of the scene. It's only when you go past the maximum that you get the turn limit. As such, I'm going to spend two bp to boost Andrei's dexterity, before firing an arrow at Isabella's heart. Difficulty 9 because of the target.

Initiative: Wits + Dexterity + 1d10

9 + [roll0]

Arrow shot: Dexterity + Archery = 11d10

[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]
[roll11]

[daelrog]

"No!" It came out more by instinct than any actual desire to get Isabella to listen. He had no time to think, hurling himself at Isabella, the vitae in his blood burning inside of him.


No dots in brawl, but I can increase my strength to 6, and still burn one more blood point for celerity next turn, if I can convince DarkSeeker that celerity will give Solland another shot if he fails.:smallwink:

[roll0]

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi had tried to fit in with his role as a likely soldier, and would have approached the innkeeper for a chat, when he saw that the Venetian seemed to behave strangely - and then lunged for the girl, murder and void in her eyes. He barely had time to react - and as it turned out, he wasn't very much in favor of them just killing a kid like that. Not only would it likely cause all matter of trouble, it was just wrong. "Damn that crazy whore," he muttered in his native tongue, breaking into a run and lunging at her, trying to grab her and hold her down. He felt hot somehow, and the world seemed to grow a tint of red as he made large strides. "Go away, girl," he shouted, alarmed. "You remind her of her kid sister - died from the Plague. She has fits like that. You, man, get some water and... ammonia. Hurry!" Best have those people go somewhere else while they beat whatever had possessed the crazy bitch out of her.

I'm spending 3 BPs for strength, Benghi will try to grapple her; considering that she is already trying to avoid one opponent the rest of us should get bonus dice for flanking, right?

Anyway, here is the basic roll, adding WP for a success because I really don't feel like failing: [roll0]

[Dark Seeker]

As Isabella loses control, several of her fellow fledglings jump in, intent on preventing her from unleashing her beast on the terrified girl in front of her. Luca lunges for her. He almost manages to grasp her fabric, but Isabella is a wily one. She ducks out of his grasp, leaving him with nothing but air.

Andrei fires an arrow, the master archer confident that his shot can immobilize his prey. Unfortunately, he proves to be a little too confident and his shot misses Isabella by the narrowest of margins, instead flying harmlessly over her head.

Solland is unable to watch the innocent girl suffer He too lunges at the Ventrue. It is for naught though, as the artist colludes with Luca, preventing either of them from stopping her.

Isabella notices nothing of the intent to stop her. Her focus is on the girl. The terrified child takes a few steps back, but the Ventrue will be on her in seconds!

And then, she is denied. From out of nowhere the sailor lunges, his natural athleticism combined with the blood allowing him to easily grab the frenzying Isabella. The beast rages, and Isabella snarls and spits, but Benghi is able to keep hold of her.

The old innkeeper still says nothing. The girl shakes, seemingly paralyzed.

Slowly, Isabella begins to regain control of herself. She beats back her disturbing urges, but who knows for how long?

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She thrashed for a while in the grip of her assailant, looking at the girl with loathing her fangs extended and and snapping at the child.

Eventually her movements slowed, not working the monster said, new tactic it suggested, she was calmer now more firmly in control ... Roderigo was meant to be loyal he can kill her, and then you can punish him for not helping you ... hurt him badly.

Her voice sickly sweet, "Roderigo, why are you not helping me?" ... "kill that child!", her voice maniacal, but the command was the last thing she said before returning to sanity.

Horror erupted through her, she had been going to destroy that child utterly, and then when that was not valid she would have forced a good man to do it for her, she was shaking in fear of herself ... "no stop Roderigo, just get her out of my sight", her eyes caught the child and the word permanently nearly escaped her lips, but she held it back.

Once the child was out of sight, the voice started again, she lives, it said, she is pure it moaned, have the man break her it whispered, the thought turned fouler and fouler until she was sobbing in the arms of the sailor, you could take his mind.
"Shut up" she roared, then in a quite voice "I am a good person, I ain't like you" she muttered, only laughter greeted her for a time.
Yes you are, the sweet alluring voice that replied was her own.

[daelrog]

Solland was shaken. What had they become? What had she become? "Damn you, Isabella." He was one of the few who had actually called her by her name. "I thought the beast only had strength when we had no blood. If you cannot control yourself let me put you down. I would ask the same if I were in your place."

Solland put a hand on the hilt of his sword, but stopped. Something nagged at him. He realized that the man had not reacted at all. He knew what they were, he ust if this was one of the Conspiracy's hiding places.

He closed his eyes, and listened.

Solland is using the first power of auspex to enhance his hearing. He's trying to listen for anyone else in the inn, particularly outside the room. The man's casual attitude makes Solland believe they're not alone.

Perception + alertness = 5

[roll0]

[Thundercracker]

Seth
Everything happened so fast. One moment they were walking through the door, the next, Isabella had lunged at the innocent girl and been tackled by no less than three others. Seth didn't even have time to react.

Then she was restrained.

What the name of Lucifer's burning hell was that?

The older man looked to Roderigo as the command was given to kill the girl, but then amended to remove her from the room. Seth moved to stay with Roderigo and the girl. They were charged with keeping him safe, and he seemed a decent fellow. The innkeeper seemed somehow compelled to ignore everything, so who knew what lurked in the next room.

[Dark Seeker]

The girl refuses to move, despite Isabella's orders. Roderigo just looks shaken. It was hard tot ell if he would actuatly have killed the child for the Ventrue.

Solland hears it just before the others. Someone is clapping. Turning towards the sound, the fledglings see a suddenly appeared Claudius Giovanni. He wears a smug expression.

"Bravo, bravo! I do so appreciate you restraining Lady Isabella. I do not enjoy having my property damaged."

One by one, the other Conspirators reveal themselves. They are sitting at some of the tables. Most of them look smug like Claudius. A few such as Lord Casmir regard the group with barely concealed hostility.

Claudius motions to some of the empty tables. "Please, have a seat. I would very much like for us to discuss your business with our humble conspiracy like civilized beings." His eyes land on Roderigo, and his smile grows even wider.

"Ah, my former coachman. I thought you lost to us for good. But now you have come crawling back?" He looks at Marchettus The Bold. "My friend, would you be so kind as to enlighten him as to what happens to those that betray the Conspiracy?" The mercenary nods gruffly, rising to his feet. He begins to approach Roderigo, who looks rather crestfallen.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Her mouth opened to answer Solland but she had no idea what to say, when she heard Giovanni speak it was almost a relief, his word wiped the innocence from the girl as surely as her death would have.

Inside she was disgusted at herself, but she managed a smile, "apologies I have no idea what came over me", that is a lie she felt she knew she just couldn't accept.

The others could tell whatever story they liked, but Roderigo would not come to harm, "he betrayed no one, I simple took his loyalty", fixing Giovanni with a look and nodded in apology, "and while I cannot be sure of my hold yet compared to yours on him, I to would not wish my property damaged either".

The smile reached her eyes - but not her soul - "so like civilised beings I would like him left as he is. Any crimes he has are mine to anyway", perhaps she could save Roderigo at the cost of her own miserable life.

Her voice became a clear command to the man holding her "Let me go" the words crisp and sharp.

[daelrog]

With the Conspiracy all around them, Solland's attention fully leave Isabella. He says nothing in in reply to Claudius's condemning of Roderigo, trusting in the others to do the negotiating. He looks first to Claudius, then to his own wretched sire, trying to discern what something from them. Hazy xolors begin to emerge... colors that make sense to Solland.

Yet another power apparently he could wield.

Difficulty 8, empathy + perception. SInce he's only reading moods, not their inner self, it does not count as his specialty.

Starting with Claudius
[roll0]

Then Sire Wenceslas
[roll1]

EDIT: Zero successes with Claudius, 3 with Wenceslas.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka watched as Isabella went insane and lunged for the diminutive tavern girl with murder in her eyes.

The countess did not have to intervene, as others more capable restrained the mad bitch.

Looking at the writhing animal-like Isabella, Alenka dismissively shook her head and felt little else but loathing for the creature. A temeptress whore and a potential child-murderer - why don't they just stake her anyway and leave her out for the sun? The world would do well to be rid of her.

Although, this little display did ingratiate Alenka with a slight smugness. She recalled Hardestadts tale of Isabella's clan being the ruleres of society, and that her own, Lasombra, were pretenders-to-the-throne and merely second best. How satisfying.

Almost on cue, the voice of someone else the planet could do without slithered from the shadows of the balcony above: Claudius Giovanni. The other conspirators were present too, including that filthy vermin Lord Valdemar - the one that had taken from her the legacy of her family and the future of her brithright. Oh how she would love to drive one of the hot-pokers through his eyes this very instant. Such satisfaction she would feel to watch him writhe and squeal upon the flaming skewer.

"Would you wish loyalty and competence destroyed?" Alenka piped up as Giovanni ordered Roderigo's demise. Some thug got up from a table and walked forward to perform the deed.

"If it were not for Roderigo's efforts we would be ash and this reunion would not be possible. He has discharged a faithful and clever service that hints well of your judgment in retaining him."

[McStabbington]

Andrei

There was a small part of him that noted the harlot's mouth working, again, from under the press of bodies. He couldn't make out what she was saying. He didn't really care. Everything was lost in the face of missing Isabella. I. do. not. miss. Vaguely, he noted that the words were spoken in the voice of the monster. At the moment, he didn't much care about that either.

The only thing he really cared about was the fact that not fifteen feet from him was the man who murdered him and damned his soul. And right next to him was the man who had ordered it. So that he might have a minute to escape. Half of the point of stopping in the woods was so that he would only have to see these fiends once. When he pulled their hearts from their chest and tossed them in a fire. And Giovanni was casually ordering Roderigo's death, after the man had helped to protect him. The girl with the bear pendent flashed before his eyes. The girl with the sword through her back flashed through his eyes.

no.

No.

NO!

That small part of him noted, as time slowed to a crawl when he ever-so-casually stepped between Roderigo and Marchettus and, with a short shake of his head, told him no, that this might be a bad idea. That small part of him said it again when Marchettus' next step brought out another arrow, and even louder when he drew and released. He didn't care how loudly it said it. At the moment, the only thing that mattered was that the monster, the part of him that said that he did not miss, had a very, very good point.


4 bp to Dexterity. If it were possible to raise my Dex to 11 so that I don't miss the next ****ing shot, I would.:smallfurious::smallfurious::smallfurious::s mallfurious::smallfurious::smallfurious::smallfuri ous:

If you can't tell, both him and I are rather miffed about his poor performance of late, and that's making him a tad susceptible to the less diplomatic part of his nature. Incidentally, if I miss again, there's a good possibility I won't be able to post again until I replace my keyboard.

Dex + Archery = 15d10; Difficulty 9

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]
[roll14]

Edit: Since the bonuses to Dex should apply, that ought to count as 3 or 4 successes, depending on whether the 1 wipes out the 9 or one of the 10's. Probably not enough to overcome his soaking, but at least it hit.

Andrei will shake his head once more at Marchettus, hoping he gets the point. Pun intended.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

As he came from behind he caught one of her hands, and with his other arm he went under hers and then turned back again, encircling her arm at the shoulder. Benghi felt the woman thrash with much greater strength than her frame could have given her, and her eyes showed a vile fury he had yet to see in anyone, man or beast. Yet for all her resistance his grip was as sure as damnation itself. He came in closer to her, strengthening his hold. "What the hell came over you, you thrice-damned crazy bitch, snap out of it! Are you that weak?" he whispered coarsely in her ear. He sensed her stop the resistance and seemingly act reasonable, but he held her for a few more seconds so the girl could get away - something she apparently did not intend to do. "GO, you fool brat!" he shouted at the kid, adding a few choice Italian curses at the girl, the damn Ventrue, and the world in general.

And then he heard the clapping, saw the Earl, and gave the Giovanni hateful look. They'd been his entertainment. AGAIN. "You smug snake... Bah!" he exclaimed, turning to the side and, not incidentally, letting free of Isabella. It took all his self-control to not lunge at the man - no, the fiend - but no, this would let the whole thing down. Pipe down, Benj, he told himself. Time and place for everything under the heaven. This isn't the time, nor the place. It will happen. Let the others do their talking.

[Dark Seeker]

Giovanni and his cohorts share a laugh at Isabella's words.

"Her property! Oh ho ho, it would seem she has developed into a nice Ventrue indeed!" His interest is perked by Alenka's words. "Spare a moment, Marchettus. "Let us refrain from punishing Roderigo for now. I am very interested in what the fledglings have to say for themselves."

Solland attempts to read the Earl. It's hard work. He gets no real impression from the man. On his sire, he has better success. The man has a large grin on his face, and his aura is predominantly a Deep Red. His eyes meet Solland's, and he looks thrilled to see his childer. Still, he remains silent.

Marchettus turns to Giovanni, his attention briefly divided. He is about to turn around and sit down, but in one of life's bitter moments, he does not get the chance before Andrei attacks him. The arrow strikes true, piercing the armor and landing directly in Marchettus chest. The mercenary captain lets out a sharp grunt. For a moment, everyone goes silent. Then the Brujah reaches in and tears the arrow out. His lips form into a sneer.

"You will die for that, craven!" He begins to advance towards Andrei.

He does not even take three steps before Bajazet al-Nasir appears in front of him, blocking his path.

"Hold. He is my childe and under my protection."

Marchettus looks annoyed. "Your childe just attempted to strike me down. I have earned the right to destroy him!"

"Leave it to me to discipline him. Why don't you worry about your own childe," al-Nasir looks around. "Oh forgive me. They must have been too weak to survive."

Marchettus raises his fist and strikes at al-Nasir, but the Assamite is too quick for him. In a flash he pulls out his own blade, ready to duel with the mercenary.

"That is enough, the both of you." Claudius Giovanni's voice brooks no argument. "Let us hear what the fledglings have to say before we cast judgment on them." He turns to the group,looking at Benghi and Andrei in particular. "I would advise you all to be on your best behavior. Several of my allies are in favor of destroying you where you stand. But I am interested in how you found my humble haven. Why don't you all have a seat a tone of the tables, and tell us of how you have been since we last met." Despite Giovanni's jovial tone, it is clear it is not a request. It is not a request.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She was unsure of they were impressed by how easily she had adopted her nature, or laughing mockingly at her for her foolishness ... she could not bring herself to care, either would suffice.

She ignored the scene with the archer - she could hardly object of a lack of restraint, and only paid casual interest to the arguement between the two elder kindred ... vampires she corrected herself no need to have adopted the usage of the words yet.

She curtsied before those assembled as she had done at her first meeting, her eyes fixed on Giovanni "Your Excellency, I find myself once again thanking you for your invitation, even if this time merely to sit", a polite smile on her lips.

She approached a chair closest to her uncaring who she would sit across from her, "and I thank you for letting the matter of Roderigo lie", her smile sly, "if there is anything I can do to return the favour I would certainly consider it", she suspected that any desire those assembled may have died years ago.
But still from her walk to her smile to her eye-movement all were designed to distract with natural grace and beauty, her skin was lightly flushed from her exertion against the girl giving her a the look of a living mortal.

There she had been polite and may have acted as something of a distraction from the details of whatever plan of escape the others wished to speak of, so that it may not be examined overly closely.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca shifted in the back. He'd nearly jumped to Roderigo's defense, but there had been no need. If the Conspiracy had irrefutable proof of the coachman's betrayal, then Luca might need to intervene. For now, he was content to wait for someone - anyone - to speak. Alenka threw a glance his way. It seemed the task fell to him. Reasonable. Luca was a professional, after all, even if none of the others knew it. Gabrin still smiled that damned enigmatic smile. He'd see. They'd all see, in time. Luca eased himself into a chair. "To be honest, Your Excellency, not well. Hardestadt was furious at your escape. Slaughtered a third of us before he'd accept that we weren't your co-conspirators. He ordered us staked and left on the grounds to witness, a beautiful sunrise." Luca swallowed hard and 'unconsciously' rubbed his chest. "After... God knows how long, there were sounds of combat, and, when it died down, Roderigo stood over us. Pulled our stakes free and claimed to know where you were. Lady Isabella was suspicious, hence her control over him now. We grabbed what equipment we could, and here we are, alive... in a sense. But Hardestadt will come for us if he learns of our escape, and we have no clue how to stop him, or even the full measure of what we are." He stared into the earl's eyes. "We need your help, and hopefully, can offer our services in kind."

The VtMer's Prayer (full text)

Nines Rodriguez, who art in LA,
Hallowed be thy crazy hand.
Thy prince be slain, and equality reigns
For all Kindred as it does for the Anarchs.
Give us this night our nightly vitae,
And forgive us our botches,
Though we exploit those who botch against us.
Lead us not into degeneration,
But deliver us from the Beast.
For thine is the radness, the power, and the crazy forever.
Amen.

Blasphemous parodies probably don't grant extra successes, but one Willpower will. :smallbiggrin:

Oh man. Hold me, coterie. :smalleek:

[roll0]

[Dark Seeker]

The Earl listens intently as Luca speaks.

"A compelling story. I'm inclined to believe you, but... ah, let us make sure, yes?" He motions to Jadviga and Gabrin. "One of the powers some of our kind possess is the ability to unravel lies and see if we are being deceived. Lady Jadviga and Gabrin, why don't you examine your childer and see if they are telling the truth? Lord Casmir, why don't you join them? It would appear your childe has met the final death, so examine one of the others and see if they are being truthful with our humble conspiracy."

The three elders approach the fledglings. Jadviga moves towards Isabel , a small smile on her face. She nods at her before looking into her eyes. Gabrin moves forward, the throwing knife in his hand still being tossed up and down. He seems delighted to see Luca, as if the two of them share some sort of private joke. Casmir moves over to Benghi, quickly catching the fledglings eyes. He still looks rather displeased.

And then the elders begins to interrogate the fledglings. "Tell us why you have come here. Who has sent you?" Isabella and Benghi can feel a pressure being exerted on them, as if they are mere puppets on a string. But the feeling is brief, and then it is gone. By the looks on their interrogators faces, they should still be bewitched, but they are now free to answer the question as to why they're here anyway they see fit.

Oddly, Luca feels no pressure exerted on him, despite Gabrin asking him the same questions. He had felt Gabrin use dominate on him before. For some reason, he could not detect it now. But why?

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Listening to the noble or false noble she found herself impressed despite herself, whatever else the man was he was a skilled liar ... her complaints regarding the nature of the lie aside.

As Jadviga approach her she wants to feel the anger that she felt at the last meeting to wish her dead, but could not bring herself to ... the woman granted her eternal life and youth, sure there were issue such as the monster in her head but if she could figure out how to control herself that wouldn't be a problem ... this was likely the feelings of the blood she considered.
She returned the nod but not the smile.

And instinctively dodged the woman's eyes before forcing herself to meet them and as before felt the power wash over her only for it to dissipate as she twitched, "I have came here to learn what I can. I sent myself", both were even true for a given use of the word sent and discounting omissions.


To make sure she doesn't stumble over her words.
Manipulation + Subterfuge: [roll0]

[JonRG]

Luca

Relief washed over Luca. Undeath had not blunted his tongue in the slightest. "See, Solland? We can still create art." He watched Isabella quail for but a moment under Jadviga's interrogation and braced himself for the same... But it never came. "We may have a problem here." Either Luca had been specially affected by the potion somehow, or Gabrin had not tried to bewitch him at all. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. It could be nothing." He looked his sire in the eye and replied, "I came of my own accord, so that I might learn from you."

[Thundercracker]

Seth
Seth watched the interrogation passively. If they were caught, would he stay and fight, or would he flee and try to save himself? He would most likely fight, he thought. He would like to, but he'd always heard you never really knew what you were going to do. He hoped he would not have to find out.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Two were interrogated by their sires, and he got ... some man he didn't know much. He was the one who was with that lord that helped Paul, perhaps? Not that it mattered, right now. Benghi met the man calmly. He had much rather someone better at lying was in his place, but he was here now, and he did not want to let this man get the better of him.

It was as if something was trying to open his psyche aside and come into it. He instinctively resisted, but it continued to push through - and then it disappeared. What was that? he thought. Just after the other two, he replied, his voice still showing signs of displeasure.

"Necessity sent us. We have nowhere else to go, and no other chance to survive."

[Dark Seeker]

The Elders finish their interrogation. Lady Jadviga looks towards the Earl. "She speaks the truth." Casmir and Gabrin nod in agreement.

The Earl's usual smirk is replaced by vague surprise. "Well, well. Excuse my distrust friends, but these are trying times. I'm delighted you honestly wish to learn from us. Perhaps you may yet find a home amongst our Conspiracy."

"Do not be a fool Claudius," Casmir snaps. "Perhaps they do speak the truth, but you heard them. The fools are being hunted by Hardestadt and his ilk! They may lead the Founders right to us! And need I remind you they have no reason to hold anything but a grudge towards us?" He shakes his head, vehement. "Far better we kill them before they can pose a problem."

"Do not listen to the warlock, Giovanni. Casmir shows his cowardice. A common trait amongst his so called clan."

"Speak of me again like that Mieczyslav, and I shall show you just how much of a coward I am!"

"My friends, please," The Earl holds up a hand for calm. "I do not believe in wasting a resource. These fledglings have come to us confused and terrified. Is it not our responsibility to enlighten them?"

Slowly, the sires approach their childer.

Dimitra looks at Benghi with barely restrained lust. His death apparently has not tempered his appeal.

Jadviga sizes Isabella up. She still seems a bit amused by something.

Mieczyslav holds out an arm for the ailing Stefan.

Gabrin puts an arm around Luca's shoulder. "My wee little dove flew back to me, eh?'

Wenceslas moves towards Solland, chuckling heavily. His gaze is little more than a leer.

Valdemar glides across the floor, offering a dismissive look towards Alenka.

Al-Nasir clasps Andrei on the back.

Amisa examines Seth.

Claudius turns towards Casmir. "Can you not see my friend? These eight childer are a huge boon for the Conspiracy! " Casmir just scoffs.

"Of course, before we allow you to join, we must tell you what it is that we intend to accomplish. So that you may make an... enlightened choice." He smiles, like the predator he is. "Did Hardestadt and his lackeys tell you anything of us? About what we stand for?"

[JonRG]

Luca

"I wasn't the one who left," Luca countered flatly. He did slip an arm around Gabrin and return the embrace. "It's good to be back, though. I missed you." Not a lie, but an awkward sentiment to express. The earl's query broke through his thoughts. Luca shook his head. "Mostly yelled about traitors and dogs and what not. The man did love to shout... We've been able to piece together some of the plan based on what we've overheard, but it'd be much better to hear the full story from you."

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

The sight of his sire brings out conflicting feelings to Benghi. He can not deny that she has some appeal over him still, though he feels a lot more cool-headed - and a lot angrier, including at her, than he was last time. He smirks at her interested look. "You were the death of me, Dimitra, and you still want more?" He says as he shakes his head in obvious mock despair. "Ah well, here's hoping it works better this time. How have you been," he asks, his smile now impish as his eyes go up and down her figure. He'd have to choose when the time comes, now he might as well see what happens and get a measure of the woman.

The Earl's question brings a frown to his face, and he thinks of what Hardestadt had said - and how much he could say. Better just support the others, this Brandusa seemed to have his story well. "Yes, almost like those stakes were him being lenient," he said with narrowed eyes, reminiscing the exchange. He then turned back to Dimitra.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka returned the uninterested glance of her sire. She was under no compulsion to be his friend or gain his affection. So far their ruse was working so that was all she needed.

[daelrog]

Solland tried his best to look at his sire impassively, and tried to keep calm within, knowing that if he could read the emotions of others, no doubt Sire Wenceslas could as well. Solland tried to remember the Mediterranean Sea, calm and pure. He tried to think of nights of play and revelry.

If only his talent had not failed the night before, he would have Wenceslas head at first chance. Now he had to wait, now he had to endure.

Perhaps it was God's will.

For fun let's do Self Control if Wenceslas is using auspex on Solland in return.
[roll0]

[Thundercracker]

Seth

Seth caught Amisa's gaze, and looked into her eyes impassively, searching for some kind of emotion on her features.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Well that was simple, no true measure of paranoia amongst the lot of them if I ever get old I hope I remain aware of the existence of known unknowns she thought to herself.

She eyed Jadviga as she approached sizing her up in turn, did the woman find it amusing that she last control as she had once pushed her to, did she like that she had targeted a small child where once she had refused to harm a servant, perhaps she thought the idea of her returning like a dog to its master to be humorous ... there was a vast array of possible humour here to choose from.

She broke out in a grin as the woman got closer and offered a curtsey, "Lady Jadviga, a pleasure to see you again. I learned so much last time, and have truly come to appreciate our conversations", she allowed" herself to blush "thought I feel I may have drank to much and embarrassed myself by apologies" she fluttered her eyes, "you simply must tell me how you have been", she bit her lower lip playfully "have you missed me also?".

Her stance showed off her figure and her colour showed nothing but life within her, her head tilted to show her neck, and her hands were parted just enough to be inviting but not open, it was a stance designed to inspire lust in any how saw it while showing polite meekness with a hint of control.


Back to old tricks.
Seduction by playing on Jadviga's ego, her need to be appeased and wanted, and using her own physical charms.
Appearance + Subterfuge: Speciality would apply -
[roll0]
Diff wits +3.


If the woman - or any others watching - wished to be amused, disgusted, entertained by the foolish whore fine, if they wished to forget that Isabella had twice tried to kill Jadviga with fire all the better.

She was not sure who she was after trying to kill the child, a part of her didn't care in the slightest, another was screaming at her to end herself, and another was screaming at her enjoy herself and if that meant the child died well and good, if it meant that the child lived and got a castle that was great too.

The last selfish voice seemed the most rational in the circumstances, and she had always enjoyed the game of seduction against opponents that had reason to be defensive ... the monk should really have been harder she mused.

[Dark Seeker]

Gabrin looks touched, though how much of it is his usual showmanship is hard to discern. "And learn from me you shall. Oh, so much to teach you of our ways!"

Dimitra laughs heartily at Benghi's jest. "It is good to see that death has not caused you to lose the zest for life. I am well. Though being around so many of the civilized kindred has driven me to my wits end. So good that I have one of my kind to run through the forests with."

Valdemar grows amused at Alenka's attitude. "I may have underestimated you, fledgling."

Wenceslas is practically bouncing up and down. He is a bundle of energy, all of it currently directed towards Solland. He strokes his childe's face and leans in close. "Oh childe, you survived! It is so visionary! You defied the fates and returned to your loving Sire Wenceslas. Oh, I shall tutor you! You shall learn everything from me, and become a truly great artist!"

Seth can tell that Amisa is not quite sure what to make of him. Her eyes show caution as well as respect. At the very least, she does not seem inclined to bury him at the moment.

Jadviga looks proudly at Isabella. "I am glad to hear it childe. Perhaps we may yet make a great Ventrue out of you." She examines her more closely. "The Embrace has made you even more beautiful than the last time we met. Further proof that our blood is truly of superior stock."

Her lips curl into an enigmatic smile. She seems aware of Isabella's attempt to seduce her, but unoffended by it.

Cluadius listens to the responses of the fledglings. He chuckles quietly at Luca's response. "That does sound like Hardestadt. The man beleives the only tool in the world is the sword.." He quickly grows serious.

"Hardestadt and the Founders would have you think we are greedy kindred out to slay a powerful Methuselah for the power it brings us. Nothing could be further from the truth. Japheth Cappadocius is my brother within my clan. To move against my kin brings me no pleasure.

"And look around the room. Several of my fellow conspirators have sacrificed much to join this cause. Their own clans now shun them, and you can see that we are hunted at every turn. But we act because we have to. Japheth is lost to a terrible madness that threatens to consume us all. He believes himself the messiah. He seeks nothing less then to replace God and rule over the heavens and the earth. This is why I reluctantly agreed to become the 13th in our unholy cabal. We of the Conspiracy understand we must stand against the tide, the repression, and destroy my brother and his blasphemy before he destroys us all.

"Can we count on your aid?"he asks simply. The sires look at their childer with expectation.

[JonRG]

Luca

"Absolutely. If he's mad as you say, it would be the only reasonable course of action." Yeah right. Giovanni was an utter snake. If Japheth's destruction were such a grim affair, the Conspirators wouldn't hold lavish celebrations and invite guests from across the continent. Besides, if Giovanni's motives were pure, then Gabrin's involvement made even less sense. Then again, Luca wouldn't be shocked to learn that Hardestadt had deceived them either. The fledglings would have to watch and wait.

[BananaPhone]

The countess maintained a neutral disposition towards Valkemar, while on the inside she wanted to gouge his eyes out.

"I inherited everything from the last person that made the same mistake." she answered.

After listening to Giovanni's horse manure of an explanation, Alenka hesitated from nodding her affirmatives immediately. Looking too keen might seem suspicious.

"But how are we to enjoy salvation in a post-Japheth vampiric society if that same society still hunts us?" she asked.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi looks at the elder Gangrel, his face slighly to one side, which highlights the raised brow as he asks her. "Indeed? Why did you stay,then? Surely you had not waited for my arrival?"
The question was stated playfully, but he is curious about the answer - the real answer - nonetheless. Dimitra seemed to defer to the Earl before, and she does not seem to be the type. What is she seeking to gain, or what is his control over her?

He nods with some outward confusion at the Earl's explanation, although on the inside he considers it bull. Right, of course theirs is only a righteous course of action, born of cruel necessity. Why, how could it possibly be otherwise? The whole debauched feast that he "attended" just a few nights ago spoke of necessity like nothing he had ever seen. And of course replacing God - God, for Christ's sake - is something to be taken seriously. Right, because what Lucifer couldn't do with a huge host, some shriveled vampire would do with some parlor tricks and a pair of fangs.Benghi would be among the first to admit he was not the most religious man he knew, but to even believe such a thing feasible seemed blasphemously insulting.

It couldn't possibly have to do with this Giovanni's "brother" being an obstacle to his own games, certainly. And of course he "reluctantly agreed" to become the thirteenth, and just so happened to be the one giving directions. You'd think that the boss would be the one who had managed to bind the rest together to begin with - some of them did not like each other much at the best of times.

Which brings the question - why exactly were those twelve with the Giovanni?

When he speaks, his voice is somewhat incredulous. "Well, if he is that mad - a mad dog should be put down, so he does not infect others. But surely, he cannot be taken seriously - thinking to take over heaven sounds absurd. Does he think himself more powerful than Lucifer?"

[dancrilis]

Isabella

"Your praise honours me", she smiled at her sire, "perhaps if you explain what it means to be a Ventrue I can properly adopt the part", she took her sires arm cupping her hand, "it appear indeed that I made the correct choice in returning to you", her warmness flowing into the other woman "perhaps we can discuss some items in private later", her voice low and breathy.

She did not receive the fawning she might have liked with her initial attempt, which was not surprising really, but no reason not to go on ... finding out where the woman slept and what protection she used would easily make the attempt worth it.


I am assuming that I got the single success the first time (taking her wits to be at least 4) and that enchanting voice would not apply.
Second round, establishing contact.
Wits + Subterfuge: Speciality would apply -
[roll0]
Diff: Int+3.


Looking at Giovanni, "A truly interesting lesson", mulling it, "if you were the thirteenth and others sacrificed much to join ... who may I ask was the first, and were the goals the same them", it made a bit of sense to gather together for a goal ... but there was no telling if that goal had shifted recently, and could therefore shift again.

"As for my aid, I have no where to go yet, you can count on my aid while I feel my interests" smiling at Jadviga "and of course those of my sire's are served" though the latter should serve the former she left unsaid.

Laying it on a bit thick but the woman had an ego to stroke and showing that she was loyal to her rather then independent was important.

[Dark Seeker]

" I shall have to keep a watchful eye around you then," Valdemar continues, his tone able to be taken as somewhat condescending. Still, he seems to be treating Alenka with a measure of respect.

The Earl answers Alenka's question, maintaining his somber tone. "Japheth is the second in command of the Cappadocian clan. When he is removed from the picture, I shall have to take up his position. The Founders would not press their vendetta at their point, for it would mean war with an entire clan. In these trying times, they cannot afford that. The only opportunity they have to stop us is now, when I am but a rebel."

Dimitra sighs. "Even free kindred have their duties. Japheth's destruction is something I support wholeheartedly. It is worth putting up with the less then stellar company."

"Our kind are capable of many things," replies Claudius. " And Japheth is a scholar of great renown. Even if he is deluded, we cannot not take the chance that he could wield such power, especially when he believes it is his destiny to become unto God. He dreams of a world where Heaven and Earth are one, a reality where nothing ever dies, with him Lording over it all. I don't know about you, but I trust only The Lord above to hold such power."

Jadviga retains her smile at her childe's words. "In due time childe. We shall discuss these thing privately." She seems unphased by Isabella's seduction attempt. Isabella gets the impression that she is focused on teaching her all sorts of lessons.

"Why the first was none other than your Sire. Lady Jadviga saw the threat that my brother posed before most. She was able to sway me over to the position, for which I am thankful."

He nods as the assorted fledglings offer their promises of support. "Good, good! You are all wise to join us. Once I remove the blight of Japheth from my clan, I shall wield great power amongst both kindred and kine. I will remember the allies who assisted me when I was but a humble Earl." He laughs, a few of the other conspirators joining in.

"Now, I've a task for you fledglings. I want you to deliver a message to Japheth arranging a meeting between the two of us. I seek his council on some spiritual matters." His smile becomes predatory. "But the night is growing late, and I feel as though you deserve to have a reunion with your sires. If you've no more questions for me, why don't you speak with them for a time? You can deliver the message tomorrow."

Assuming there are no more questions, the sires all lead their childer to their private chambers.

I'll give you all a chance to ask any final questions, and then on with private scenes once again. :smallsmile:

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

So, that is what the Giovanni was aiming for - the second spot of all in his clan. But... that leaves a question, what about the one who is at the first? If he (or she, but Benghi can't yet quite imagine how a woman could keep people such as the Earl or this crazy scholar in line) approves of the coup, this would likely be easy. If he disapproves... well, the Earl's moves might end badly. And what of everyone else on the ladder, numbers three, four, five... where was the Earl on it, anyway? Perhaps this was why there had been so many in this group, Benghi thought. He doubted Jadviga was the one who had assembled them - they deferred to him, which implied he had more reputation or power among them. Perhaps one of the nobles might know better what made sense here. However, he does not find Earl's answer to the noblewoman quite believable.

Dimitra's answer, now, that was curious. He wants to find out more about that, but perhaps this is not the time, he thinks, and simply looks at the woman with some confusion on his face. Strange to hear her speak of duty. Why should she care that some stuffy elder has delusions of grandeur? While power such as that is certainly something he can trust no vampire with, the story of the Giovanni does not sit well with him. Regardless, these are questions he'd rather not ask here. Perhaps the woman would open up more in a less crowded place.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka almost rolled her eyes at Giovanni's patheticaly transperant excuse. It was far and away and without a shadow of doubt, one of the mots contemptibly sad excuses she had ever heard.

It was a ploy she'd heard far too often before. She had not ascended to the position of Countess over her husbands corpse, and retained that title without installing a manure detector in her head for the wagonloads of dung political snivels usually spouted.

Oh yes, such a terrible burden being second in command of an entire vampire clan would be, she thought privately to herself. I'm sure Japhep is the scourge of mortal society - were he to continue, vampries would ride dinosaurs down the street and fissures would crack the seas to vomit forth an endless tide of sin and revelry.

Shouldering on through all that luxury.

Forcing back all the bribes and tributes political sycophants would bring him.

How would the poor dear manage? When would the top eschelon of society get a break...

If anything though, it convinced Alenka of Hardestadt's worthiness of her loyalty. Say what one wanted about the mans refreshingly blunt methods, he at least respected her a little more to use more convincing lies to win her over than this fatheaded idiot was employing.

"What an exciting idea." Alenka uttered when it was proposed that they should spend time alone with their sires. She sounded as happy as a child whsoe candy had been lost to the mud.

The countess allowed herself to be led into the private chambers where Lord Valdemar awaited her. Or Lord Valde-pig as Alenka was coming to think of him.

Placing herself down on a provided furnishing, Alenka addressed her misbegotten sire.

"You look well."

[Thundercracker]

Seth
He was somewhat confused to see what he suspected was respect in Amisa's expression, but he held his tongue until they were alone.

"Fool's luck trumps experience yet again," Seth said, once the door was shut.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca's eyes flared slightly at Alenka's remarks. "Inherited?" He'd heard tales of ambitious nobles who murdered their male relations for prestige, but it sounded more like a minor problem blown out of proportion by the paranoid wealthy. If Alenka were one such person... Perhaps she wouldn't resent a conman as much as Luca had feared. So distracted was he that he barely noticed Gabrin had lead him off. Once they were alone, Luca sat down and said nothing. He merely waited for the Roma man to speak.

[Dark Seeker]

Benghi

Dimitra leads Benghi outside, into the wilderness surrounding the inn. A soft breeze was blowing. The elder Gangrel remained silent for a moment, looking at nature as she had at the Earl's manse.

"Tis beautiful. Let the fops have their blessed civilization. This is all I need," She turns to address her childe.

"I am glad you survived! I suspected if any of them would, you would be the one. You were able to outlast me as a mere kine. With my blood in your veins, you shall become a great member of our clan. Ah, but perhaps I should tell you more about us.

"We are of Clan Gangrel. Of all kindred, we are the closest to nature and the beast. Others like the Toreador and Ventrue scheme and plot for power as though they are still mortal. But a Gangrel, a true Gangrel, knows what they are. We are predators. The hunt is everything.

"I noted your confusion. You perhaps wonder why someone such as myself am supporting Claudius in his power play? The answer is simple. Japheth is an extremely powerful kindred. But the fool does not wield it! He is content to spend his time mediating on spiritual matters of the Christ God. He is a lamb amongst wolves. And the first rule of nature is that those who do not exercise their power do not deserve to possess it. That is why I support Claudius's destruction of his brother. A lamb has no place ruling over the sheep." She speaks with disdain.

Alenka

"My dear, I am always well."

Lord Valdemar's chamber is dark, aside from a single candle that illuminates the middle of the room. However, It is lavishly decorated. For all of his other flaws, the merchant was a man of taste. He takes a seat at his writing desk.

"As I said, I may have underestimated you. I thought you a typical kine. The cowardness you displayed at our last meeting was most disappointing. But eh, perhaps I am too hard on you. Most of the kine would have acted the same way." He smiled, as if granting the Countess a great pardon.

"But how you acted as a kine matters little now. You are a kindred. There is a possibility that you may yet evolve into a worthy member of our society. As your sire, it falls on me to ensure you do. Serve me well childe, and you shall be rewarded most handsomely. You think you knew power as a mortal? Work for me and you shall learn what power truly is." The shadows curl around Valdemar's back. They twitch excitingly, almost as if they have minds of their own.

"You surely have questions. I shall answer some of them." He gives her the floor.

Seth

Amisa's chamber is not much different than her chamber at the manse. Egyptian furniture lines the room. She offers Seth a seat on a comfortable looking sofa before clapping her hands. Servants appear, offering Seth certain exotic scents if he is so inclined.

"Your survival suggests you have a stronger desire to live then most of your kind. Here you sit while several of your brethren lie dead. Or deader. It is most impressive."

At that moment, Amisa notices the cat. Her brow furrows.

"You kept him all this time, did you? How interesting. Perhaps I could not have offered you a price that would have had you slay him. But tell me this. What if I were to attempt to grab him from you and bludgeon him now? Would you attempt to stop me?"
Regardless of Seth's answer, she makes no move towards the cat.Apparently the question is more of a philosophical one, though it was hard to understand what she was getting at.

"Before we go further, I should like your name. I do believe I never learned it back at the manse. Now that you are my childe, I should."

Luca

Gabrin's chamber is modest but flashy, much like the man himself. Colorful trinkets are everywhere, their presence adding cheer to the otherwise dimly lit room.

"Well,well," Gabrin begins cheerfully, circling around Luca like a shark would his prey. His hand never stops tossing the knife up into the air. "The dove survived. I'm not surprised, honestly. All of the other kindred underestimate us Ravnos. And so nice of you to lead your siblings back to their parents. Giovanni is ecstatic. He won't show it of course, but he does fear the power of the Founders. Having new members, even ones as new as you fledglings, makes him feel more secure."

The Roma pauses, as if in thought. "So why is it I view your story with some skepticism? Perhaps I am just a cynic, but I find coming back to the ones who literally killed you and hoping they'd not execute you on the spot to be a rather hard plan to swallow. And Hardestadt is rather incompetent at anything aside from bluster, yet a good two thirds of you were able to survive an elder and his personal army, not to mention the other founders. All without yet fully understanding your condition and probably in the midst of frenzy?" He looks at Luca accusingly for a few seconds, before breaking into laughter.

"So easy to unnerve dove! Here's a tip. Never let them think you're being deceitful. No, I am sure you came here out of your own free will. But whatever your reasons, I am glad you are here. I took quite a liking to you before I killed you. Forgive me for that, by the way. Sometimes...well, you will understand, should you survive long enough."

Stefan

Mieczyslav's chamber is Spartan. The only thing that gives it any color are the various torture devices that hang in the corners of it. It would appear that the good priest finds torture as something of a relaxing pastime. Stefan spies the bodies of two prisoners locked in chains. Both are thankfully dead.

The man of the cloth aids Stefan and gets him to a seat. "I must confess that your fortitude impresses me doctor. You of all the clans must have had trouble making it back. You have surely already felt our clan's curse. We need the soil of a place of great importance to us, or we suffer and become more and more like the corpse we actually are. Before we discuss anything else, perhaps I can provide you with the proper soil to fix your discomfort? Provided, of course, you profess your loyalty to our cause."

Isabella

Lady Jadviga's chambers are tastefully decorated. A true aristocrat, the Venture elder's chamber is filled with lavish furniture that states her status but does not need to overstate it.

"I confess that after our encounter at the manse, I was ready to write you off as a miserable failure. I am usually correct in such pronouncements. I have spent several lifetimes testing kine. But you... you may be different."

She takes a seat and offers Isabella one, pouring herself a glass of oriental brandy. She offers one to Isabella, before reconsidering.

"Forgive me. A few of our kind are still gifted with the ability to enjoy mortal food and drink. I am, but I am uncertain if you are." She takes a sip, nodding with approval. "Nowhere near as good as the blood of course, but it does fulfill a certain nostalgic urge. Ah well. Down to business."

"Tell me, what inspired you to attack the girl? You refused to show leadership and punish a servant, and yet you were ready to drain a child dry. Have you discovered that I was correct in compassion holding a leader back?"

Andrei

Al-Nasir's chambers are furnished with Turkish decoration. A massive prayer rug dominates the main floor. Al-Nasir motions for Andrei to kneel on it. A few moments later, he returns with paper in hand and does the same. He writes furiously.

You were not expected to survive. You were not supposed to win our little game at the manse either. And yet once again, you surpass my expectations. Well done. I feel confident that our blood is well suited for you.
You and I are Assamites. Others would call us a clan of assassins and thugs. Others are of course misguided. You will have to decide for yourself how far off they are.

A key asset for our clan is subtlety. You have already violated that rule and made a powerful enemy. Marchettus is a fool, but he is a skilled warrior. He will not rest until you are or he are dead. I advise you to be careful. There is only so much I can do to protect you. And am inclined to do, at that. Consider this your first test.

As for our clan, we have a purpose. That purpose is served by aiding Earl Giovanni. He has spent a considerable amount in resources on obtaining my services for this mission. Serve me well, and assist us in destroying Japheth, and I shall see to it that you are rewarded in a manner that you will find most satisfying.

He awaits Andrei's response.


Solland

Reluctantly, Solland heads off with Wenceslas. His chamber is expansive and dazzling. works of beautiful art can be found in every corner of the room. Several of the sculptures and art pieces are of Wenceslas himself. Many of them are in the nude. The man certainly did have a large ego.

"Come in, childe, come in! Take a look around! I guarantee you all of the others lack the attention to beauty that I have cultivated. But that is what it means to be a Toreador. We are blessed with retaining our connection to humanity. I can enjoy such simple pleasures, while far too many of the other clans can enjoy little more than blood and their tiresome games of power.

Have you need of anything? I can arrange for one of my servants to bathe you. Perhaps a nice massage or a feeding? One of my more talented ghouls could sculpt your fine form. My luxuries are your luxuries," Wenceslas smiles as if giving candy to a child.

"That you survived is a testament to your power as an artist! And then to return to your father and beg him to take you in. Oh, it is splendid. The epics of the Greeks cannot even compare to this! Truly a most wonderful moment." He grabs Solland suddenly, his smile growing wider.

"Oh, the gift I have given you childe! I have given you eternity to work your art. Think of the majestic beauty you will create. Oh, the wonders you shall paint for me!" His gaze gains a look of rapturous intensity.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka took comfort in the abyssal shadows as if they were a familiar, but distant relative. Such a curious symptom of Caines blood that she should find these hellish protrusions to be reassuring.

"Yes: who are we?" Alenka asked. This was her first chance to speak to another of her clan, even if she was plotting his gruesome demise.

"We share a familial pedigree - what is it?"

[Thundercracker]

Seth

"Would I try to stop you? Probably," he replies, "though I'm not really certain of that."

"The cat seems to have taken a liking to me, for some reason, and it seemed more trouble to drive it away than to let it stay with me," he continues.

The older man waits patiently as Amisa speaks.

"My name is Seth," he replies.

"And no, once you offered the pouch of gold, I felt it was some sort of dodge or hustle, so I refused everything," he adds.

"No offense intended, but it simply seemed beyond believability that anyone would offer so much to slay a single harmless animal," he says.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Well that was interesting, if Giovanni had joined last but also assumed command then the question became what did the others gain from this that made them join earlier ... she would have to ask Jadviga.

She broke off her seduction attempt she had failed enough over the years to know when it was going nowhere and the other woman had other concerns for her at present.

The supposed plan of Japheth was not that far fetched when one considered the teachings of Boniface VIII the greatest pope in recent history of some stories were believed, thought the connection was only made due to one of her first clients that she had retained having a fascination with the man.

As she left with the woman she considered having Roderigo attend her and to follow behind, but instead left him to his own devices.

Entering Jadviga's room she noted the similarity in style to the room at Giovanni's former home, had the conspiracy been together long enough to allow all members private tailored rooms regardless of hideout?

Smiling at the praise as she took her seat, "You honour me still".

Noting that the woman could still eat she stored that for future testing, but to business then, "Honestly I am unsure why I attacked the child, she seemed so pure and innocent that I felt compelled to remove the stain from my presence", she suppressed a shiver at the memory. "Still once I heard that she worked for the earl the feeling dissipated, it was odd".

"On leadership, I have seen though experience that a leader must be harsh, kind, cruel, fair ... anything to achieve the aim that they have. The girl dropped a plate, and was to be whipped, however she had other scars which I took to be from similar failures. As such whipping had not proved effective with her",signing "I misunderstood, I had thought you intended to test my ability to recognise this to avoid using the wrong tactic when instructing", she finished.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca tracked Gabrin's every move at first before he realized how foolish it looked, turning his head this way and that. At least his chair was comfortable. Far less comfortable were the logical flaws Gabrin had found in the fledglings' tale. Luca's fear didn't show on his face, but his hand tensed in preparation to draw. "Damn it. I had a feeling he would be suspicious. Good thing we didn't purport to do all of that while escaping a fortress." He cleared his throat and replied, I'll aim to keep that in mind." Bloody hell. Luca couldn't mention this conversation to the others, lest Gabrin move up their merry little hit list. Even his loyalty was still unclear. "I believe I can understand now. It was between us and you. I'd likely have done the same, were I in your position." Luca shrugged, then changed tack. "What baffles me is that you've thrown in your lot with someone like the earl. Why? You told me you have no desire for prestige, and I doubt you care much for the fate of polite society. Why risk so much for Giovanni's gain?"

I was going to try and Sense Motive on Gabrin, but unless it's Perception + Alertness to see if he's being genuine, I doubt I'd be very good at it. Empathy is for people with friends and who don't lie to everyone they meet. :smallamused:

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi leans back on the side of the inn, enjoying the overall good weather. To his eyes, the forms in the darkness are pleasant enough. He has, frankly, not cared too much about the beauty of nature, at least on land, but he cannot deny it had some primal majesty. Before, it was tempered by fear, maybe unconscious, of the horrors that lie in it. Well, he was technically one of those horrors, though the events of the last few nights certainly did not disabuse him of the notion that much more powerful, and worse, things were out there.

"Well, this time I imagine my survival had more to do with luck than anything else... that and having the control not to lunge at that Hardestadt like... some others," he winces. "but when it comes to that, I didn't want to die once, I don't intend to do it again."

So, he was supposed to play the young, ignorant fool. Well, so be it, he hadn't received that much of an instruction before. "So.. what makes us - Gangrels - different from all the rest - is it just a state of mind, or more? The way you acted, I thought you might be a witch, of one of those wolf-men of legend. Does this mean that we are the "werewolves" the tales speak of?"

He waits for her answer, before continuing. "As far as I've seen, all of us felt the hunger that I did...Though I'm not sure how natural it is, I hadn't ever felt something like that in my life. That "beast" inside was like a fiend urging me to murder. That in the castle, it wasn't pretty..." he says, frowning. But it was so, so pleasant, he thinks. That's the most disturbing part.

He spends some time, looking far away in the distance, then up to the heavens. His sense has never been better, and despite the light clouds the stars shine above him, forming the constellations he had heard so many stories about. The contrast between their beauty and harmony and the deceit and muck here soured his mood. The deceit and muck had many names, but one name - and face - stood up from the rest. Giovanni.

"We had no choice but to come, but I don't trust that Earl one bit. His story speaks of greed masked by high words, and that's the worst sort. He gets to remove a rival and usurp his place, the rest of you get... what? The Cappadocius is not a threat. Does his way so offend you that you'd go to risk and band with others like them to end it? I'd expect he promises you something more, at least."

[McStabbington]

Andrei followed behind the Mussulman after offering Roderigo a reassuring pat on the shoulder, and sat where he was bid, his blood still vibrating in his ears. He had been the last to sit down at the table, and had barely paid attention to Giovanni, perking up only when Giovanni announced that Japheth intended to kill God. And he had perked up only to note that either that was the most ridiculous story he'd ever heard, or Japheth had the most ridiculous idea he'd ever heard. The sheer audacity of such a story gave him pause, not sure which was harder to believe: that Japheth could actually concoct such a hare-brained scheme, or that Giovanni could have thrived in vampire society while being such a patently bad liar.

Most of the sit had been spent silently coiling his rage and shame back into the back of Andrei's mind. It had allowed him to momentarily stifle the loathing he felt at these horrors this "plan" had forced him to sit with. Andrei hadn't wanted to come to these fiends. He hadn't wished to see them save before he ended them. And while he had called it justice, the blood vibrating in his ears, and the monster that had cackled with delight in his mind as he fired his arrow, said otherwise. No, he had fired that bow on the pretext of justly defending Roderigo, but mainly for revenge and for hate. And that thought filled him with nothing but shame.

The paper pushed in front of him snapped him fully out of his reverie. He read the message. His first inclination was towards the direct, but something stopped him as he put quill to paper. He read the message again. A key asset for our clan is subtlety. You have already violated this rule and made a powerful enemy.

Andrei was sorely tempted to point out that Al-Nasir had done the same, and for far worse reasons. Andrei knew that hate had driven him to fire that arrow, but it was a hate that played on his loyalty to one of the few men who had earned anything of the kind in the last few days. Roderigo had spoken for him, and he had been threatened with dead unjustly. If this Mussulman had ever known anything of loyalty, he had long since forgotten it by the time he repaid guestright with murder and conspired with a man who boasted openly of his plan to slay kin. A fiend who could do either had nothing to say on the matter of loyalty.

A key asset for our clan is subtlety. You have already violated this rule and made a powerful enemy.

Andrei realized, with an almost violent start, that he didn't think he could teach anything to Al-Nasir about loyalty either. At least, not by word. This creature is, surely, the least of men. Without loyalty, there can be no hope, no faith, and no love. Truly, he is forsaken of all God's most precious gifts. Looking at the fiend, Andrei realized that all he for all his power and skill, Al-Nasir deserved nothing but pity. And while this fiend of hell must be killed for his crimes, and Andrei very likely had to be his killer, he would do it because even such a man as Al-Nasir deserved the judgment of a just and merciful Father.

Taking up the quill and ink again, he wrote two small words and turned it back.

I accept.

[Dark Seeker]

Alenka

Valdemar rose from his chair and paces the room.

"We," he said with flourish," are the Lasombra. We are the aristocrats of kindred society. And though the others may not acknowledge it yet, we are the rulers. Fools like Hardestadt and Jadviga would pass their wretched clan off as the leaders, but the truth is they are as much followers as the rest of the clans. We Lasombra are driven. When we see something we want, we stop it nothing to get it.

"Permit me to give you an example. Most of the other clans serve the bidding of their Antediluvians, or clan founders. I am proud to say that we Lasombra were the first clan to turn against our Antediluvian. Lord Gratiano led an attack against our hidden master's fortress, and drained him dry." The elder seems quite proud of that deed. "While the other clans cower and serve their masters, it was the Lasombra who have done as they always have. If you find someone wielding power you desire, you take it! You surely know this better than anyone!"

"Our actions inspired the Tzimisce to likewise commit diablerie against their antediluvian. The other clans fear us, and Hardestadt and his ilk wage a nonstop effort to wipe us from the earth. This is why I have joined with Giovanni. The Earl understands well the way the world works. I am willing to assist him in taking a higher position in his clan. In return, he shall steer the normally isolated Cappadocians into an alliance with our clan. Hardestadt knows this. This is why he vigorously pursues Giovanni.

"I assure you my childe. When the dust settles, the Lasombra will take their place as the leaders of kindred society. Provided you serve me faithfully, you will be well rewarded . Wealth and power shall be yours, along with mastery of our unique control over the shadows."

Seth

Amisa's smile fades as Seth reveals her name. An excited look grows on her face. "Seth? Truly this is a sign from Almighty Set! He looks favorably on you!"

She calms down, though she is still clearly excited. "You and I have Almighty Set's blood flowing through our veins. You should be honored. The other clans are flawed shadows of our power."

She begins to explain the history of the clan. "Many years ago, Set served Ra faithfully. Ra had proclaimed that he was the creator of the universe, and Set had no reason to doubt it. Ra passed Set over and favored his younger brother Osiris. Set was outraged. Had he not served Ra faithfully? He struck down Osiris, but received a punishment in return. He was cast into the underworld. There, he learned the truth. Ra was a fraud. He was not the creator of all things. Rather, he had ascended to that state from his own humble beginnings. Instead of telling others of their potential, Ra cowardly hid the knowledge of enlightenment and forced all to obey him as the creator. But Set learned that all souls possess the same potential to become gods. He vowed to spread this knowledge and liberate all souls from Ra's tyranny.

"We, the Followers of Set, exist to aid him in that liberation. Ra... Christ... Zeus... they are all the same jealous being, hoarding power and keeping humanity in chains. You would assume that we kindred would be free of such a state, but you are wrong. Ra's servants exist even amongst the kindred, and Japheth Cappadocius is one of the most powerful. He speaks of enlightenment, yet his vision is of a world where we are all chained to Ra's tyranny!" Amisa's voice takes on a spark of anger.

"As Setites, it is our duty to enlighten as many souls as we can. We must show them that the limits placed on them by morals or society are all merely chains that serve s an extension of Ra's rule. Only once they reject such things can they hope to reach their true potential."

Isabella

Jadviga grows excited as Isabella talks. "Her supposed purity disgusted you then? Childe, you have come a long way! I should have liked to see you drain the girl, but it is a good thing you did not. Wenceslas considers her his play thing, and he hates having his toys broken." Her voice indicated she viewed the Toreador with some disdain.

"Our clan must be selective in our tastes. We can only drink blood from one type of individual. I suspect you may find that those you consider pure are the only ones you can drink from. We shall have to test this out at a later point," she mused.

She nods at Isabella's explanation. "Fair enough. In the future, do not defy your superior. These servants must be taught lessons in proper behavior several times. I find that the whip is a most effective teacher."

"As for our clan, it is time you learn of us. We are the Ventrue. You have been blessed to be placed into the rulers of kindred society. We are not like the power hungry Lasombra. We see ruling as an obligation, because it is. Without the Ventrue to shepherd the other clans, there would be chaos. Remember well that power begets duty."

Luca

Gabrin chuckles, a merry little sound. "Why Dove , what makes you think I serve Claudius? You have it all wrong! The man's purposes match my own. So for now, I have seen fit to ally with him.

"You saw how the others acted. My fellow 'allies' cannot stand one another. All it will take is a slight push, and they'll be at each other's throats. The key is knowing when to push!" He tosses the dagger in the air with flourish, catching it skillfully. He's probably had lifetimes to practice, but it is still rather impressive that he never seems to miss.

"Ah, but perhaps I should explain what I am getting out of Japheth's death. It is a long and complicated story, but I shall explain it in layman terms for you." he grows more somber.

"All natural life has meaning, from the beetle to the human. Each life has a purpose, or Svadharma, that it must fulfill. Failure to do so leads to reincarnation. Until one's final Svadharma is fulfilled, one shall never break the cycle of reincarnation and achieve true wisdom. Now ask yourself how kindred fall into that lesson. The truth is, they don't. We kindred are monsters, locked outside the cycle of reincarnation and unable to fulfill the original purpose we were destined to. Few of our kind even care to search for purpose in this state. This leads to madness, and the monstrous political games you have already fallen victim to.

"How, then, to save ourselves? We kindred can find purpose even in our new state. To do so, we must penetrate the illusions all around us. When we do not, we fall victim to the curses of the vampire- the thirst for blood, the burning of the sun, and the fear of fire, to name but three. But just as some humans spend a lifetime meditating to transcend the curses of their flesh, so too can we reach a point where the curses of our unholy state no longer affect us.

"We do this by discovering our purpose, our Svadharma. This purpose is different for each Ravnos. Some Ravnos believe they exist to tempt others into sin. Others crusade for some charming notion of justice. As with all things in the universe, there is balance. By fulfilling our purpose, we begin to serve our given roll as we should. It falls on us to aid other kindred in the advancement of their own Svadharma. And should they resist enlightenment, it falls on us to destroy them and bring their souls back into the natural cycle. A kindred who is not seeking their Svadharma is a creature that has no meaning.

"You surely must be asking what this all has to do with Giovanni's little family squabble. Japheth is a truly ancient creature. He has spent lifetime upon lifetime seeking enlightenment, and yet he seems unable to find it. He still drinks blood, still fears the sun. I suspect he is as preoccupied with the Maya, illusions, as most other kindred. Hence, Giovanni's destruction of him will free his soul and return it to the natural cycle. As for Giovanni, he loves power above all else. By fulfilling that Svadharma, he moves forward to his own enlightenment, even if he does not realize it yet.

"And should he fail, he'll meet final death. Either way, he is given the opportunity for enlightenment." Gabrin grins.

Benghi


"We Gangrels do not play the sort of games the other clans do. The Ventrue and Lasombra feud for power. The Toreador pretend they are still kine. The Ravnos waste their unlives on being petty thieves, and the Setites spend theirs luring others into hedonism. We Gangrel are different. Rather than pretend we are mortal and focus on mortal concerns, We are predators who act as all kindred should. We are not werewolves, though many of us can transform into wolves. Actual werewolves despise us, as they do all kindred. The feeling is mutual."

She nods as Benghi describes the beast. "Yes, the beast. It is proof that we are predators. To deny it is to deny ourselves. By the same token, it cannot be allowed to control you. A predator consumed by hunger is a failure. Listen to your beast. Learn from it. But do not allow it to control you."

She remains silent, until Benghi mentions his distrust of the Earl. Her eyes flash, but Benghi is spared her anger. "Bah! Giovanni is as much of a fop as any of the others! I detest having to work with him. Japheth must die. He is a craven who does not deserve the power he holds, and Giovanni is willing to take it. But all the same, Claudius's misdirection concerns me. Rather than just attacking, he insists on playing these foolish games. It is disgraceful behavior."

She sighs. "And yet, I must side with him. Many of my clan have bought into Hardestadt's honeyed words of a kindred society. He wants us to hide in stone castles and pretend we are human! They fear humanity, our clear inferior! It was not so long ago we Gangrel ruled the plains and forests of the world openly. And yet Hardestadt and the traitors in my clan would hunt those of us who remember the old ways down. If I am to resist the Founders, Giovanni is a powerful ally to have." She leaves it unstated, but her meaning is clear. Dimitra fears the power of the Founders, and is seeking allies.

Andrei


Al-Nasir looks a bit disappointed by Andrei's short answer. Nonetheless, he continues to write.

Very good. I shall tell you more of our clan.

We Assamites are the judges of kindred society. So many whom possess the blood do not deserve it. It falls on our clan to judge our brethan, and destroy the ones found wanting. Further, to ensure the blood goes to someone who will use it properly, it falls on our clan to commit diablerie, or the ritual drinking of the blood and soul of the kindred. Such an act will grant us the unworthy's power. When I was embraced I was ten steps removed from Caine, the first vampire. I was a weak kindred unskilled in the arts of our people. Since then I have diableried several unworthy kindred, and I now stand only six generations removed from the first vampire!

In addition to the wealth he has provided me, Claudius has offered me the soul of a kindred five steps removed from Caine. Perhaps Lady Adana of the Founders. I have heard much of her warrior prowess. I should very much like to best her, and then consume her essence. Al-Nasir closes his eyes for a moment, as if savoring the thought. He continues, shaking slightly.

Serve me well childe, and when Jahpeth is destroyed, I shall offer you the blood of any of my fellow conspirators aside from Claudius. The Earl is my employer, but I have no agreement with any of the others. They are expendable, and I rather hope a few of them meet destruction on this mission. Serve me well, and I swear that you shall be of my current generation within a few weeks, and of power immense beyond anything you can dream of. His eyes are that of a fanatic, and something that could be described as madness lurks within them.

[Thundercracker]

Seth

Seth scratches his head as Amisa speaks.

"Yes, my namesake is an important figure in my.. our people's history," Seth says, "and they did revere cats, or so I'm told, which is ironic, all things considered."

He considers for a moment as the cat jumped into his arms and purred.

Vampires were nothing but myth and legend a fortnight ago, why not Ra, Set, and Osiris?

"A noble purpose, but it does sound like a great deal of work," he says, "erm, exactly how many of you.. us are there? Because I've not heard of this movement in all my travels."

"And what do the others think?" he asks, "The Earl and-" he waves his arms absently, "whatever their names are."

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca nodded along, trying to wrap his mind around Gabrin's mysticism. It completely clashed with all he'd observed. Then again, the Roma were well known for their eccentric beliefs, and Durga Syn had found him suitable for the Embrace at one point. Perhaps the apple didn't fall far from the tree... "So, no good or evil. Just those with a purpose and those without? You help the former achieve theirs, and destroy the latter. Interesting..." Luca had never thought much about his purpose. Live to live another day. That would satisfy for perhaps one lifetime, if that. Maybe Gabrin could help him find his purpose... or destroy him for not having one. He smiled at another thought. "Quite a tidy position you've gotten yourself in. No matter who triumphs in this little war, you still succeed." Luca stroked his chin. "So how did you come to your current life, er unlife? I doubt you were inducted into this society through sheer misfortune as we were." It would be nice to know more about his sire, especially information that could get Gabrin out of the Conspiracy unscathed.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She smiled at her sire's praise, she confirmed what Hardestadt had mentioned and what she had subsequently confirmed on her own, but it was good to keep the specifics from her.

"I understand better now the nature of control", those above rarely tested those below in this society it seemed otherwise the lies that had been told to gain there trust would have been obvious, and as such a command was not an invitation to creative thinking ... a very useful item to know, but not one that she personally intended to adopt.

"So if we are the rulers of kindred society, and you founded this group what are your aims and why is Giovanni seemingly the one both in charge and who will benefit the most", she queried.
In truth she suspected that the answer was simply, Giovanni's raise to power would aid his allies, and that the benefit to the others while not as high was still worth the effort ... but that implied a logical society and she had her doubts on that.

"I would also be interested in how the day progresses normally for us", she had awoken easily during the day the previous evening but others seemed to sleep soundly, "I assume it is the most dangerous time and that in the interests of security that we secure private sunless areas, preferable stone, with a mortal servant or two to protect us", she considered "but I have not seen that many servants around to provide each of yourselves with trusted individuals for security let alone ourselves", she would use Roderigo for this and would hopefully be able to gather a private sleeping place that matched the above criteria.

[Dark Seeker]

Seth

"Tis hard work, but if we do not enlighten our brethren, who will?" Amisa thinks. "Of our clan? Perhaps twenty thousand total, likely a little less. What we lack in numbers we make up for in enthusiasm. And I believe you have been smiled upon by Almighty Set. You shall assist in our liberation most splendidly!"

"She smiles thinly. "The Earl and the others do not fully understand our mission. They are blinded by Ra's lies. Most of them are unwitting servants of the deceiver. However, a few of them show purpose. Lord Casmir has a theoretical interest in corrupting others, as does Lord Mieczyslav. Given time, they may be able to earn enlightenment. And the Toreador Wenceslas is all but a slave to his pleasures. Perhaps one night he will understand the chains that ensnare him are of Ra's making, and he can overcome them to become a free and enlightened kindred. I have my doubts in that particular case."

"As for Giovanni, I support him because he is serving Almighty Set's goals. Jahpeth is a dangerous fool who many amongst our kind consider 'pure.' He misleads kindred and seduces them into the slavery of Ra! His death will destroy a powerful servant of the deceiver. What's more, by transcending the bonds of polite kindred society, Claudius shall become even easier to influence along our path. I believe we can eventually guide him into following Almighty Set, be it voluntary or not."

Luca

"To an extent. There is good or evil, but good cannot exist without evil, or vice versa. For there to be a balance, some must be agents of evil, and some must be willing to be agents of good. Evil acts that do not lead a kindred to their Svadharma should be shunned, and that kindred likely destroyed if they refuse to change their ways.

"As you have probably seen, most of my fellow conspirators care little for discovering their true purpose. Humble Gabrin has tried to guide them, but most of the clans look down upon the Ravnos. They ignore me, and continue to be imprisoned by the illusions that have snared me. That is why I have decided to free as many of them as I am capable of. And just when I despair I don't have the tools to do so, along comes my little Dove and his flock of birds, back to assist me in this most noble of tasks!" In a flash, Gabrin appears at Luca's side. He pats his childe on the cheek.

"We are on the threshold of something very exciting Dove. I'd like for you to be my ally in this endeavor."

At Luca's question about his state, Gabrin's usual smile slips. It is clear he finds the subject distasteful.

"Aye, you would be surprised. My Sire was a man of strong convictions. Unfortunately for him, they all turned out to be wrong. He technically held to the same path I did, but it was largely a lie he had embraced to allow himself to commit whatever horrific acts he wanted. He cared little for Svadharma, and even less in helping others to achieve theirs." Gabrin spoke with actual anger, the first time Luca had heard it in his sire.

"I learned the true path. And I punished my sire for his deceptions. Unfortunately, the path he held to still harbors many proponents in the West. Of all the kindred that must be returned to the cycle, none bring me more pleasure to release then our heretical sect mates."

Isabella

"Claudius was not entirely honest with you. I was able to convince him to pursue Japheth's destruction, but he then sent out feelers to kindred of other clans. Once enough of them agreed, he overtly began to plot. He was not all that reluctant to perform this undertaking. he just needed acknowledgment that he would have backing to shield him from reprisal."

She smiles at Isabella's questioning. "Very astute childe. No, I am not doing this out of the goodness of my heart. I stand to benefit should Japheth be removed from the picture. The Cappadocians and the Ventrue have long had good relations. We are a clan whom understand the value of commerce, and they have long been willing to work with us for mutual benefit. But recently, well recently in our society's terms, that has changed. None have seen Cappadocius for centuries, and Japheth neglects power and commerce to focus on his foolish quest for enlightenment. Claudius is from a distinguished merchant family. He would be a far more acceptable asset.

"So I approached him, and proposed his brother's destruction. He gathered allies, some more useful than others, and promised them concessions. I however stand to gain the most. Once Claudius becomes second in command of the Cappadocians, I shall have an entire clan subservient to me! They shall owe me a great amount, and counting one of their leaders as my close ally will ensure my own position improves rather drastically," Lady Jadviga looks rather pleased with herself.

"As for the day, we kindred sleep during it and wake during the night. Those of us with further distance from our beast wake earlier than others who are more in its thrall. My own security is well taken care of. I possess a few servants that deal with ensuring I am well secured during the day. Many of the others do as well, though some like Mieczyslav and Al-Nasir have no servants. I cannot imagine it myself, personally."

Make a Perception+Empathy roll.

[BananaPhone]

Alenka raised a golden eyebrow at Valdemars assessment and his offer, that is, his offer being exactly that of Giovanni and Herdestadts. Follow me and you'll get stuff, seemed to be a common theme, as if material goods and temporal influence were the sole things that cluttered her mind now that she was damned.

"Why was I selected?"

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"So, you're saying the God of Constantinople, and of Mecca, and Jerusalem, and all the gods worshipped from Rome to Athens to Sweden and beyond, all the same deceiver?" he asked.

The older man considers the implications.

"But then, if people wish to be deceived, who are we to stop them?" he continued, "and they would probably actively resist enlightenment."

He was half playing along, half intrigued. After all, the great pyramids were ancient, even by Caesar's standard. Who was to say there actually wasn't a Set or Osiris, and had assisted the ancients in building the gargantuan structures?

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca felt a twinge of guilt at Gabrin's anger. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. I'd just like to get to know you better." His mouth quirked in an embarrassed smile. "It's been a while since I've spoken with family." Fourteen years, give or take. "Anyway, I like the sound of your plan. Whatever purpose there is in our current existence, the other Conspirators aren't making the most of it. They just flock to those with vision and are content to feed off the table scraps. I can see why you're frustrated." Luca watched the knife twirl through the air. He debated asking about the habit, but feared it could be another touchy subject. Knife-throwing wasn't a vice, was it? More of a nervous tic, really. Luca cleared his throat. "So, how would you go about freeing the others? You just incite discord and let them destroy themselves?" Worry churned in his gut. "And what about the other fledglings? We've been through a lot together, and I'd like them at least given a fighting chance." Benghi, Solland, Lady Vasa...

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She nodded at her sires words, so the woman was capable of realising the smaller prize was still worthwhile, and trusting enough to assume that Giovanni would keep his alliances.

But this was secondary to the information that Mieczyslav and Al-Nasir may be unprotected during the day especially coupled with how both had recently been in arguments with other members of the conspiracy, "to sleep without protection they must be very trusting of Giovanni's and your own protection ... or very powerful".

She had the feeling that there something that she should pick up in this other then the words, but was having trouble placing it.

Perception+Empathy: [roll0]

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi pushes himself from the wall, nodding towards the road. "Feel like a walk? It's a good night. So there are actual werewolves, too. Huh... is any legend that isn't true? If Dimitra joins him, he walks on for a while, away from the village - he'd not have anyone who might overhear, and it might improve Dimitra's mood and willingness to talk about some of the trickier subjects. "And the beast...It wants to control me, and I don't like anyone controlling me. I have no intention of starving myself to death, but I do not want to become a mindless beast, like some who died in that castle." He falls silent for a while afterwards. So one group wastes their unlives in politicking, another in art, yet other in debauchery... so how was the Gangrel way any better, when it seemed to be doing nothing of note at all? All it had for it was apparently being more honest - and the way everyone so far spoke of power, the politicking of the "lords and ladies" seemed to represent the nature of most kindred he'd known well enough.

He leaves those thoughts for later, right now he wants to learn a bit more about his sire and the whole mess he got himself in, and maybe predispose her to trust him a bit more. He's inclined to trust the Founders view of events, but it would be good to hear more about their scheme from a different perspective. "If other Gangrel believe that we are predators who hunt as we should, I doubt they'd be that keen to stay in castles. So why'd any follow this Hardestadt - and how does he keep them in line?"

[Dark Seeker]

Alenka

"You were meant to be food, nothing more," Valdemar explains casually. "Your blood is of high quality, even before I embraced you. Now that you are a Lasombra, I see that you are in many ways an excellent member of our clan. There were rumors that you seized power in your mortal life, and I believe them. A woman such as yourself earning anything in this world is rare. It suggests you're willing to seize opportunities as they come. We need more of that kind in our ranks. Fledgling, I believe you have the skill to become a very influential member of our society."

Seth

Amisa nods vigorously. "Yes! The deceiver has a thousand faces, all utilized to ensure all are kept in slavery to him.

She looks dangerously annoyed at Seth's next question. "Because it is slavery! Who cares how comfortable the cage is? Better a short life and freedom then to live along life and be enslaved!" She calms down some, answering his next question in a measured tone. "Yes, they do resist enlightenment. They've lived their entire existence in the deceiver's web. It falls on us to inform them of their wretched state. So we tempt them, find out their vices and use it to enslave them. We lead them into misery, until they have no control over their very life. And then, then we reveal to them the truth, that they have been slaves the entire time! We then offer them enlightenment, and a path to finally being in control of their own destiny for the first time in their lives."

"The strong ones overcome their slavery and become followers of Almighty Set. The truly exceptional are given the blood. Those too weak to overcome their wretched state are left to die, or made into slaves of those who can derive some small usefulness from them. But at least we offer them a choice. It is up to them whether or not they accept it."

Luca

"Oh, do not worry Dove. It is just troubling that even amongst our clan, so many of us have lost their way. Another reason to be glad I am your Sire." He grins widely.

"The others can only be freed by their own destruction. Regrettable, but none of them will convert willingly. They are without purpose, and their souls cry out for release. You've seen how much they hate each other. Every member of our wretched Conspiracy is plotting the demise of another. Claudius surely knows, and he even subtly encourages it. After all, The Earl owes a lot of favors. If a few of his allies are destroyed before he has to repay them, well that's such a tremendous shame, isn't it?

"And then you and your siblings come along. The great wildcard as it were. The conspiracy sees you as exploitable, and will surely work to seduce you to their own ends. As it turns out, you may just be the harbinger of their destruction.

"So Gabrin will offer a little advice for you and your siblings. Watch the Conspiracy. Learn whom each of its members likes and dislikes. And then whisper the right words in the right ears to increase paranoia. Learn their weaknesses. And when the time comes, exploit them in any manner you see fit."

"Oh, your siblings will be given a fair shot at survival. If they're smart they'll keep quiet and learn all that they can. I have no wish of seeing any of you come to harm. All should be given an opportunity to pursue their Svadharma. But if a few of your brothers and sisters do die, don't fret little Dove. They will at least be back in the natural cycle."

Isabella

Jadviga is a skilled liar, but Isabella has experience in detecting them. It quickly becomes clear to her that Jadviga is withholding information about her true purpose in encouraging the attack on Japheth.

"I know not why they have no servants. They're not the only ones. But some of our kind are rather anti social in the best of times. Mieczyslav has the occasional servant, but they don't tend to live long. The man enjoys his torture games," a hint of a smile crosses her face.

"As for Al-Nasir, he largely keeps to himself. His clan is a most distrusted one, and for good reason. I'd encourage you not to trust his childe either. Flaws such as that are in the blood."

Benghi

Dimitra begins to walk with Benghi, content with allowing him to lead the way for now.

"Most legends have within them a grain of truth. You'd be wise to remember that."

She nods in approval at Benghi's response. "Then you must retain your resolve! The beast will try many tricks to control you. Do not let it! Sate it by being a predator, but make it clear that you are the master and not it."

"As for the others of our clan, to many of them are cravens. They believe humanity can stop them, thanks to the power of the church. They fear for their unlives and sacrifice our heritage! Worst of all, they hunt those of us down who keep to the old ways! I look forward to destroying Milov Petrenkov. He is Hardestadt's lackey in the founders. His death shall show the cowards in my clan just how false their new way is."

She stops suddenly, grabbing Benghi as she does so. "But enough of these dreadful politics It is time. I have a gift for you. Follow." She walks off suddenly, confident that her childe will follow.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi smiles inwardly at the irony. He has only met two of his clansmen so far, and both were so, so sure the other had to die. Truly, there's nothing like family. He'd rather no one of them died, frankly, his anger focused for the Earl. Then again, that woman was part of the reason why he'd been brought here and endured all he did - she played with him, and in the end was perfectly fine drinking his life like a keg of fine wine. As much as he is still thinking with his other head, being dead did bring things in perspective. If he has to betray her trust, he thinks... well, it would give him no pleasure, but she started it. He listens to her as she speaks, nodding with a thoughtful. "I see..." It certainly seems like a lot of politicking for one night, he reflects as he lets the topic drop. The walk is much more enjoyable without such distractions.

For now, though, he follows, expectant but wary. His eyes are sharp and his feet light, and he feels the urge to reach for a low branch and follow her from the trees. He suppresses it... for now.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

So both Jadviga and Hardestadt thought they could keep there feelings hidden from her, and both failed, she felt like sighing but keep her face curious.

"Apologies sire, we have not had a proper chance to get to know one another", smiling slightly "unless you have studied me before the night at the mansion", looking in the at the other woman, "one of the things I am comfortable at is knowing when there is something that I am not being told".

"Your secrets are of course not mine, but if I can better assist you and thereby establish myself I would ask you to share freely any element of a plan that I may assist you with, if even for only discussion", she smiled humbly, "thought of such matters are beyond me I apologies for the impertinence".

She smiled, in truth the only member of her own group that seemed to be naturally sly enough to pull an dishonest double-cross was likely the faux noble, or for an honest double-cross maybe the noble woman ... thought now that the thought was formed it would not do to underestimate any of them.

"I would not know any of the others well enough to trust them", nodding her head respectfully "in truth while we spoke in terms of conversation I would have more dealings with yourself then any other member of our kind".

Well may as well sow some seeds of doubt in the woman regarding her own allies, "though I suppose the two who indicate they are of noble birth in my group would be possible the most likely to have an alternative agenda", smiling "I would be interested in hearing of their sires to clear away any suspicions I would have on their loyalty".


To get her to open up and talk about things.
Wits + Subterfuge (speciality would apply):
[roll0]

To plan the seeds of doubt in the woman while also planting the idea that Isabella is fully loyal.
Manipulation + Subterfuge:
[roll1]

[Thundercracker]

Seth

"Hmm, I do think letting people choose their own destiny is a good thing," Seth replies.

"And I see this is what happened earlier, before the... coffin," he mutters, almost to himself.

except my vices don't include lust or greed.

"What of the Earl, then?" he asks, "forgive me for saying so, but I suspect he is power hungry. Does he believe in freedom?"

[Karnius]

Stefan staggers slightly as he enters Mieczyslav's room, putting a trembling arm out and attempting to grip onto the wall to balance himself. The sight of two mutilated corpses locked into metal devices with enough serrated blades and crushing metal clasps to make the doctor wince in sympathy and send a shiver through his weakened body. Stefan stares at Mieczyslav for a few moments as he helps him into a chair, then shakes himself and regains a measure of his former composure. Settling back into the chair and stirring movement into his aching limbs, Stefan composes his thoughts and tries to come up with a response. I can't think straight like this, and I certainly can't fight anyone without rest. Mieczyslav might be a ruthless demon but if he's offering to help then I don't know if I can refuse. If it's a trap then I'm dead, and if it's a trap and I refuse then the madman could kill me anyway whilst I'm like this.

Stefan coughs and leans forward, his voice a dry groan.

"I feel that I cannot refuse. I have barely been able to survive without you and the others." Not that I fared any better in their company. "If you can help me recover, make me strong again, and help me to get revenge on Hardestadt, then I swear myself to your cause."

Am I lying? I don't even know any more.

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei stared at the paper a long moment after he had finished reading it. He was not quite sure what to say. As a matter of morals, it seemed that Josef was quite correct. Just when he'd thought that the Mussulman couldn't commit any crime more heinous, he knocked the floor out. To consume a soul. To destroy it utterly and prevent it from seeing judgment, whether in Heaven or Hell? That . . . that is to usurp the place of God entirely. Even the idea of killing God floated by Giovanni paled in comparison.

His second thought was, absurdly, a matter of deep practice. This creature has no idea what it means to hunt. Andrei was not particularly lettered, although he knew every Bible story that Alfred had taught and every story the wandering troupes of players had shown when they came to town. But he knew what he was, and he knew that for all Al-Nasir's age and experience, he did not understand. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding, Alfred had often said, and it was advice Al-Nasir had failed to heed. For all his protestations to judging the other kindred, as he called them, he clearly conflated this judgment with the acquisition of power, and the besting of others rather than mastery of oneself. Truly, he had forgotten the face of his father.

Nevertheless, Andrei knew his position was precarious. Al-Nasir had not wisdom, but he doubtless had strength, and the willingness to use it if Andrei flinched in the face of this evil, however monstrous. In all thy getting get understanding indeed. I know of this heinous act, but I don't know how or why it works. Ask the right question, and he will write my intentions into his own heart for me. But be careful, he considered in the solitude of his own mind.

Neatly, he traced another short question onto the paper, carefully ignoring the mad look in the man's eye.

I have seen this word used before: diablerie, yet the meaning is not entirely clear. What is the practice and how does it work?

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca's face split into an exultant grin. He'd felt overwhelmed ever since that fateful night. Now, the pieces had fallen into place. No longer did he feel like a mouse among cats, or a sheep among wolves.

He was a conman among marks.

Luca rubbed his chin. These fools had bickered constantly at the feast, and again at this is, providing plenty of information on their social dynamic. Unfortunately, it was difficult to keep track of in his head, given the number of players and the wealth of information. Writing was out of the question. A sharp-eyed servant with an errant scrap of parchment could spell death for them all. "Do you have a chess set, or know where I could quietly obtain one? It helps me visualize, you know." He grinned again and idly contemplated which piece best suited each Conspirator. "But let's set that aside for now. It seems Claudius wishes us to lure Japheth to him. Do you think he would actually honor such a request and in what sort of time frame?" Luca leaned back in his chair. "Plus, you've still got a lot to teach me. So much so that I'm not really sure what to ask about first."

[Dark Seeker]

Benghi

Dimitra leads her childe through a path in the woods. It's a hard road to follow, but the Gangrel shows no sign of discomfort.

The pair quickly arrive in a clearing. Benghi notices that they are not alone. A man is tied to a lone tree. he is naked, shivering. When he see the two Gangrel, his shivering only increases.

Dimitra approaches him, cupping his cheek almost gently. "This man is a hunter, or what passes as such amongst the kine. We happened on each other's path earlier this evening. I like to savor my food for a bit, as you know well," She lets out a hearty laugh.

"But you have returned to me childe. It is time you learn what it means to be a predator." She pulls out a dagger, quickly cutting the rope. "Flee!" The kine needn't be told twice. He takes off, stumbling as he does so. Dimitra watches him go, an impassive look upon her face. Once he is out of sight, she turns to her childe.

"The kine has seen too much. He must be killed. Go after him. Hunt him down and drain him of his blood. It should be a simple test of your abilities."
Should Benghi decide to hunt the man, roll Stamina+Survival.



Isabella

Jadviga appears ready to snap at Isabella for accusing her of deceit, but her childe's honeyed words give her pause. She leans back in her seat, studying her.

"You are very perceptive. Very well, I shall explain everything to you. Be warned that none of this is to reach any of the other's ears. This is Ventrue business only. It is a rather... sensitive matter.

"For a long time, our clan elders have been concerned by the Cappadocians disregard for more material goals. Under Japheth the clan has become more and more isolationist. Our clan cannot afford to lose such a promising ally. Hence, I suggested and they approved my plan of convincing Claudius to usurp power from Japheth. We knew that the Giovanni were already ambitious, so there was little risk in him alerting Japheth to our scheme.

"Once the plan was set in motion, the Ventrue elders instructed Hardestadt to use the scheme as a rallying cry for this new organization of kindred he is trying to build. I leaked him enough information so he could build his little coalition. This way, if the plan looks to fail, we Ventrue can still benefit. If the attempt succeeds, a sensible merchant will lead the Cappadocian clan in a more agreeable direction. And in the unlikely event the plan fails, Japheth Cappadocian will own clan Ventrue a boon for saving his life and putting down the rebellion. We can use that to extract concessions from him.

"Hardestadt and I will share the glory of this operation. Though I shall of course receive the greater prestige for reinforcing our alliance, Hardestadt will earn justification for his united kindred society regardless of what happens. Either way, clan Ventrue emerges from this situation the real winner," Jadviga smiles smugly. "That is how one conducts politics, childe."

"As for the other sires, I trust few of them. Gabrin is trouble. He plays the fool, but even amongst his clan, none survive this long unless they are cunning. Whatever his true agenda, be wary of him. His clan are thieves at best, and usually much worse.

"Lord Valdemar is even worse! The Lasombra have long been pretenders to the Ventrue throne. His clan committed diablerie on their own founder! They have no honor, no sense of obligation. They are thugs pretending to be aristocrats. What's more, Lord Valdemar is an enemy of our clan. Should an opportunity present itself, he must be destroyed. It would only further the success of this mission."

Seth

"I am glad you understand now. We are harsh teachers, but after a lifetime of deception, harsh lessons are the only thing that can awaken the slaves to their imprisoned state.

"Giovanni is a man who cares only for his own power. He does not know it, but he serves the Almighty Set with his actions. Committing diablerie will only serve to bring him closer to our Lord's reach. Even if he never becomes enlightened, he will serve an important purpose by destroying one of the deceiver's most powerful servants."

Stefan

Lord Mieczyslav lets out a low, sinister laugh as Stefan looks at the corpses.
"Ah yes. My newest experiments. The Earl never runs out of servants, it seems. He does not even mind if I kill them. You look upset. It is no different from what you did, I assure you. Sympathy for the vessels is a trait you no longer require. You are an evolved being."

He clasps Stefan on the shoulder. "But enough philosophical talk. I think we had best treat your ailment, before I bore you with the politics of your existence. Follow me."

He moves over to a large closet. Taking a key off a nearby dresser, he unlocks the door. Inside, Stefan sees dozens of canisters. Each appears full of soil.

"Our clan requires us to sleep with the soil of a place important to us in our mortal lives. I have become a collector of sorts of soils from all the places I have traveled over the years. Look inside yourself. Find the soil that calls to you, and take it."

For simplicity, I'm going to say that Stefan would be able to sense the soil that would "suit" him. It won't restore his dice pool until he sleeps with it, but even holding it will improve his condition enough to allow him to talk with Mieczyslav in relative comfort.

Andrei

Al-Nasir reads the note carefully. When he next looks up, the madness in his eyes is gone, replaced by a calm expression.

Ah yes, Diablerie! Some call it Amaranth. Whatever the word, the meaning is the same. Diablerie is the drinking of a kindred's blood, and the consuming of their soul. Once a kindred is completely drained of their blood, we need but keep drinking, and we shall consume their very life essence. You have drained from servant kine already, yes? Well a kindred's blood is an even greater feeling then that, especially if they are powerful. And to commit diablerie fully... I cannot even begin to describe it in language. It is a uniting with the Almighty, surely. For a moment we are as God. And when the act is down, the powers of the departed kindred pass onto us.

It may sound monstrous, but I assure you that it is a most holy act. We Assamites were ordained to judge our brothers and sister sin the blood. Most of them are incompetents unworthy of it. We mealy correct this imbalance by ensuring that their power goes to those whom are truly worthy of it. Think about the power you wield now. And then imagine the power you could wield after but a single diablerie. Better that it belong to you then some kindred who has proven themselves unworthy.

Luca

"I may have a chess board somewhere around here. But you hardly need that to figure out your situation. You are surrounded by pawns!" Gabrin begins to laugh. "Pawns who think themselves queens!"

He grows more serious at his childe's next question. "Truthfully, I don't know much about Japheth. But for all his flaws, Claudius possesses a certain cunning. He would not risk his unlife on a plan he did not believe could succeed. He seems to desire to trick Japheth into a meeting. The twelve of us will serve as backup and are likely expendable should Japheth resist. He keeps the plan largely close to his vest, but most of the kindred seem to trust he knows what he's doing. Including myself, admittedly. As I said, he's not a fool. Well he is, but not on this matter."

"It is indeed a lot to take in. I shall offer you what advice I can, but there is much you should figure out for yourself. But to start with, do not trust any one kindred too much. Including me. We all have things to gain by getting you on our side. The others my scoff at you and consider you just fledglings, but even they can see the opportunity you and your siblings present. Be wary Dove. And more importantly, be smart."

[Thundercracker]

Seth

"Diablerie?" Seth asked.

"If he destroys Japheth and takes his place, isn't that the same as trading one deceiver for another?" he asked.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

So the informant was Jadviga, which fed into why Hardestadt wanted her dead, it was all a powerplay for and by the elders of the clan who sat above both of them, beings whos names she did not know, who she could not contact, and who even the existence of was theoretically at this point ... she had to have a certain appreciation for them. There were risks in the plan as there would be with any plan, but they seemed to be accounted for.

"Thank you, discretion has always been a part of my life, and it will continue to be for as long as I remain", interesting thought the information was it was not immediately pressing so the others did not need to know.

"You mention that the Giovanni were already ambitious", raising an eyebrow, "is there more then one, I know of the mortal family but I would not have assumed that they were involved in this to any meaningful extent".

"I suppose I should ask to understand the other members of your group, it would not do for me to be taken in by honeyed lies that they may feed me when I am unaware", she smiled warmly at the woman.

"Though I suppose I should take my leave shortly for the night, I would, if space permits, desire my own room with Roderigo to guard me ... it would do me good to have a solid days sleep".

So some were untrusted, some had lower defences, some had enemies, this could be used.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He follows his sire, trying to keep in mind the way back. It is a dark night, and anyone less than a master outdoorsman - or one as he was - would have struggled to even keep to the trail. And yet, he intuitively seems to take it for granted that he sees. It is disturbingly easy, just how draining blood seems to be. The path to damnation is often easy, a voice inside him says. Be wary.

At the clearing, he looks at the man warily, then at Dimitra. Her doing, of course. Why the hell would she do such a thing?

Oh, right. Apparently she has a taste for drawing things out, for playing... is that really the way of a beast of the wild, he think, or a beast of damnation? Cats played that way with mice, but when sated and looking for a challenge, not when starving. He shakes his head.

The man flees, but to Benghi's ears his running sounds like bumbling. He must be stopped, he thinks, but there should be time aplenty - he's nearly blind, and worn by the struggle. He readies himself instinctively, but before he goes he turns to Dimitra, confused and somewhat disturbed."I am sated, did you not want to feed from him because you were hungry? Why did you do this?"

burn 2 BP to raise stamina and strength by +1

[BananaPhone]

Alenka lowered her jaw as she considered Valdemars words.

"I do not believe you."she answered tersely.

"A man that requires the patience to ascend through this careful society would not draw 'just a meal' from two nations away after investigating them with a spy before hand..."

Alenka allowed a pause to hang in the air.

"So I ask again: why was I chosen?"

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei's eyes tracked the paper warily, then widened suddenly as the full implications of what was being said struck him. One could not possibly consume a soul if there was no soul to consume. I still have my soul! It's still mine! Which means I might still be saved!

And with it, the full gravity of the situation struck him as well. This was a man whom deemed it holy to destroy souls for the most callous of reasons. And whom had done so several times before. And would do so again. The question, of course, was not simply then of stopping him before he could strike again. It was whether or not the souls he had stolen could be restored, or whether they were truly gone. His wariness returned as he wrote again.

It is also something that they, and by extension their allies and friends, value more than anything else. If I do this deed, would one of their allies have a way of ripping the soul back out?

[Dark Seeker]

Seth

"The consuming of one's essence, of one's very soul. It is a black sin, so of course we encourage it. The better to transcend the boundaries the deciever would have us chained to.

"Japheth is a vile servant of the deceiver. He preaches his twisted moral code, and attempts to keep kindred and kine alike as sheep. His destruction will rob the deceiver of one if it's most powerful servants. Giovanni would be an improvement. The act of diablerie is corrupting. Once he partakes in it, he will become even more susceptible to Almighty's Set's influence.

Amisa dismisses the servants, save for one. She is a young girl, but her eyes betray the gaze of a zealot. She brushes Amisa's hair, looking fondly at her master. Amisa continues.

"Would you kill this girl if I asked you to?"

Isabella

Jadviga nods sternly. "See that you do. Should any of the other clans become aware of what I have just told you, we would be in a difficult position."

"The Giovanni are shrewd merchants, but they also have an interest in more esoteric matters. They practice necromancy, and can communicate with the dead. This attracted the interest of the Cappadocian clan, and a few of them were brought into that family. When we felt the need to replace Japheth with a man of commerce, Claudius was our first choice."

"As for my fellow conspirators, do not trust any of them. Even the most respectable of them should be viewed with caution. Valdemar is the most pressing threat. Most of the others can be tolerated, for our goals do not exactly clash. but this makes us temporary allies, nothing more."

"This inn is quite large. I imagine you and the others will have your own separate chambers. The coachman belongs to the Earl again. He may be in the service of him, though I suppose you could ask Claudius or Lothar for his service if you felt the need."

Benghi


Dimitra sort of shrugs. "He came to close to the inn. He needed to die before he discovered anything of its inhabitants within. Do not worry about me. I have alternative means of feeding. Even if you are sated, you must learn how to hunt your prey. Go after the man and deal with him."

An anguished scream of terror can be heard within the woods. Dimitra smiles.

Alenka

Valdemar chuckles. "Poor childe. You still behave as though your high birth means anything."

Alenka feels something wrap around her. Looking down, she sees that it is her own shadow! It wraps securely around her legs.

"In the future, do keep in mind that I am your sire. I am of higher blood in this society then you. Do not think to question me." Valdemar's voice remains friendly, despite the sinister nature of his words.

After a long moment, the shadows withdraw.

"It is as I've said. As an incentive to join him, Claudius offered to find us the most promising kine. We were to play with you at dinner and drain you dry. Your importance in life meant nothing, besides that it gave you the stellar blood to attract my attention."

Andrei

No. Once we have consumed a soul, it is part of us. I have heard tales of the diableriest having to struggle with the consumed soul for control of their body, but I dismiss these tales. I have consumed several kindred, and none of them have any caused me any problems. I suspect such stories are used to frighten impressionable kindred away from a source of great power.

Tell me, have you given thought to who's soul you would like to consume? Each kindred has their own unique taste. I encourage you to give the matter some thought. For my own part, I am drawn to those kindred with a martial streak. I've not yet tasted a Brujah, but I expect good things from Lady Adana.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

She nodded at the woman's words, "Thank you I will speak to Giovanni on that matter, however a matter concerns me I see no other member of Cappadocian present at this gathering ... I assume that there is more at play then simple murder of ambition to secure Claudius's place in the clan", her right hand twisted absently in circles as she thought, "will he be accepted, and if so how can we be sure ... even within the family he was not seemingly based in the halls of power, surely his own siblings would oppose this unless at least a sizeable power bloc within them is supportive of this", she locked her fingers of her hands together.

"To speak plainly, if Japheth is the second in command and a coup is occurring wouldn't it make perfect sense to take the head position also to ensure no issues ... and if that is occurring is it a part of the plan here?" she was not entirely sure of this but she had seen younger brothers murder the elder before to achieve the first place ... the more successful nearly killed the head at the same time to ensure a smooth transition.

Still with the distaste of Jadviga on the killing of a founder and assuming they held the first position would she back a plan that involved the death of one here ... Isabella might if she was in her position.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi


Dimitra sort of shrugs. "He came to close to the inn. He needed to die before he discovered anything of its inhabitants within. Do not worry about me. I have alternative means of feeding. Even if you are sated, you must learn how to hunt your prey. Go after the man and deal with him."

An anguished scream of terror can be heard within the woods. Dimitra smiles.

Benghi looks at the woman - kindred - shaking his head. While he could understand acting to defend oneself, this strikes him as wanton and foolish. There is little choice now - if the man does make it to wherever he can be believed, it could cause all matter of trouble - but Dimitra's actions in this seem to be cruel at best. "Did he look like a local, and is there a village nearby he can flee to?" he asks, before setting on the trail of the man.

To follow him: [roll0]; the man should have significant penalties on the roll due to his state.

[daelrog]

Solland was no master manipulator. He was not the mastermind of the group. In his own mind, he did not have to love Wenceslas, not unless the fiend tried to use his powers. He was here reluctantly, and he did not pretend otherwise. "But why accept an eternity when the God can offer me the sun's kiss, and a chance for redemption?" He shook his head. "Did you not see Isabella try to murder a mere child from the damnation bestowed on us? What use is this beauty if I destroy good people in the process?"

He wanted to hear Wenceslas's tale compared to Rafael, to hear what Wenceslas himself thought eternity was worth living.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"No," he replied, without surprise, almost sounding bored.

He ponders for a moment, deciding if he wished to elaborate then sighed.

"First of all, children are impressionable," he said, holding up an index finger, "she could be cultivated into a great asset."

"Second," he said as a second finger joined the first, "I like my freedom, and I don't see any particular reason why I should want to slay the girl."

"And before you start offering me land, thirty pieces of silver, or her older sister slathered in scented oil, I'm going to tell you all those things are more trouble than they're worth, but it has nothing to do with purity, I assure you," he adds.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca chuckled at Gabrin's humor. Regardless of his intentions, he was certainly a delight to be around. "I suppose I'll take your advice under consideration... assuming I can trust it," Luca teased. He was right though. A lonely Kindred who sought friends within that society would quickly meet his end. Gabrin may be his teacher and sire, but he was also a manipulator. Even if he was a staunch ally, magic could easily subvert loyalty. Luca thought of Mitri. "Didn't betray me, then... Probably." He idly crossed his legs. "So, some of us can control people's minds. You work illusions. How can I do either of those?"

I figure Chimerstry requires a bit more finesse and Luca doesn't exactly find magic intuitive.

[Dark Seeker]

Isabella

"Cappadocius has not been seen for centuries. He is probably in torpor or otherwise isolated from the affairs of his clan. I know not the internal politics of the Cappadocian. But if the plan goes smoothly, none should know that it was the Giovanni who destroyed Japheth. Oh, there will be rumor, but they will be rumors without proof. I have heard that the Cappadocians are largely deferent to authority. Once Claudius emerges as their new leader, most of them should go along with it. Those that don't can be dealt with."

Benghi

"He's probably a local. There is a small village not too far from here. Most of the locals know better than to come near the inn, but occasionally one wanders too close and needs to be put down."

Benghi sets off after the man. The cruelty of it all still distracts him, and he is not his best at tracking. Thankfully, the terrified hunter probably had not gotten far either. Given his state, it should only a matter of time before Benghi caught up to him.

Solland


Wenceslas's eyes narrow. "Ah, her. Yes, that vile little whore attempted to kill Megan. Had she touched my little darling in any way, I would have destroyed her. I will not allow anyone to corrupt my Megan. I shall have to speak with Jadviga and inform her that she must punish her naughty little childe.

"You mistake me childe. I enlighten. Pain and suffering brings forth the greatest artistic inspirations. A bard singing about his unrequited love, a funereal gown meant for mourning. Look at even your work. You were able to reach into a man's soul and lay bare his hypocrisy!" Wenceslas begins to pace, ranting widely.

"I am not like Jadviga or Mieczyslav. I do not cause suffering for the pleasure of it. I cause it to enlighten. I inspire kine and kindred alike to reach within themselves and express their truest desires! Did not our Savior test Job? I cause suffering to create rapture!"

Seth

Amisa listens intently. When Seth finishes his explanation, a soft smile crosses her face.

"Well done. You learn quickly. To kill without cause is pointless. Japheth must die because he is a so called 'pure' being who would steer others away from their liberation. But kine can be enlightened. Make them suffer. Enslave them to their desires, and begin to teach them of liberation through Almighty Set."

She points to the girl. She is perhaps fourteen at most. "This kine was of a God fearing clan. Her parents were firm in their faith. I happened upon them and stole their daughter out from under them. I have molded her into a follower of Almighty Set. She would now commit any blasphemy, violate any sacrament. Had I just killed her, it would have caused her family a great deal of suffering. But now I shall soon return to kidnap the family and have them see what I have done to their daughter. I shall destroy their values piece by piece, until they either seek enlightenment or perish. Either way, I shall have robbed the deceiver of two more of his servants."

The girl continues to brush, her gaze betraying no sign of anything.

Luca

"Ah, you have a curiosity for my parlor tricks? In this, I can assist you." Gabrin throws the knife up one final time, before turning his full attention to his childe.

"We Ravnos possess the unique ability to create illusions. Perhaps that is why our clan prides itself in being able to see through them to begin with. You recall when we met you felt as though you were consumed by fire? Oh, the look on your face! Given time, you can learn to perform illusions such as that. They can be most useful. A mob of kine charging you can easily be sent screaming in all directions by the vision of a group of demons emerging from the ground to drag them to hell," He chuckles, recalling a fond memory.

"Dove, let us begin with the basics. Center yourself. Become one with your mind. For now, focus on creating an illusion that will effect a single sense."

If Luca wants to do this, he'll need to spend a willpower point. He can create something that fools any of the five senses, but only one of them. So he could create the smell of fresh flowers or an image of those same flowers, but not both. I'll give you leeway to decide what you want him to create. Creativity will be rewarded.:smallwink:

[Thundercracker]

Seth

Seth nods.

"So what is there to know about my new.. condition?" he asked.

"I need blood, I devised that on my own, but what else?" he asked.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

So much for open rulership, Benghi thought darkly as he ran in the direction of the man. Some poor sod that just happened near the inn - maybe not as put off by its reputation as the rest - and had to be killed to preserve the precious "open rulership" they had His inner turmoil distracted him, and he didn't do nearly as well as he could have - should have, under the circumstances.

Damn it all, he thought grimly. He needed to catch the man, so he ought to focus on this, not on how much of a damnable bitch his sire was - or what it meant for him.

[roll0]

[daelrog]

Solland listened stone faced as it dawned upon him that the girl, Megan, may have been better off at Isabella's fangs. No, it could still be made right.

"Rapture through pain, for artists to take upon themselves their own cross, to suffer from their own individual crucifex?" At the moment it did not sound bad. Solland sought redemption. Though he would not have Wenceslas as the one to determine what trials Solland needed to endure, it was still something to consider. "What is your suffering then? To create artists and paragons, what scars do you bare?"

[dancrilis]

Isabella

So the plan boiled down to three steps, dispose of a powerful vampire, hope really hard, gain benefits ... this was not sensible, if Hardestadt died and Jadviga died would Isabella be able to claim their position in the clan?
Unlikely.
The plan was more damaged as the founders knew of the plan and wanted to catch Giovanni in the act.

Still there was little need to call the woman on this, "thank you, I will speak to Giovanni on my sleeping arrangements" and his own plans, "with you ..." she had been about to ask for leave and stopped. The traditions she should know them first hand in case she slipped and revealed knowledge that Roderigo was not known to possess "forgive me in our conversation I failed to ask if there are laws that we have to follow, some items Roderigo indicated but as he may not know as much as I would like. I feel better to ask you", her smile showing respect for her sires knowledge and gratitude for her sire sharing that same knowledge.

[BananaPhone]

It was difficult for Alenka not to betray any signs of vulnerability at Valdemars sociopathic response.

Everything she was and everything that she encapsulated for the future of her lineage had been destroyed in a single night out of merely a whim. The thought clogged the countesses mind as an ichor - tarring the insides of her skull and threatening to clot out any semblence of civil thought.

Valdemar had to die. He must! And it would be by her hands. As he had rend from her that which she held dearest in the world, she would repay the favor and consume the animals soul. Clan loyalties be damned, she would not be denied this.

"Fate then, it seems, is not without a sense of humor."

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Not for the last time, Andrei was glad that he could not speak. Had he been able to do so, he imagined it would have been hard to bite back "You", "Giovanni" or "Hardestadt". He shoved the shameful thought to the side as the blasphemy it was in order to mull the message.

While his spirit briefly quailed at the notion that saving those souls was impossible, it was only momentary. There was a difference between the Mussulman not knowing how to restore it, and there not being a way to restore it. And Al-Nasir didn't exactly sound like a person who would look too hard to find a way to restore those souls. It might require time to find someone who could teach it or learn it on his own, but time he had, and he had seen too much magic in the last few days to believe that with some skill and a lot of faith, it couldn't be done.

But back to the question, one that placed him firmly on the knife's edge. Theoretically speaking about such an abominable act, especially when it bought him time and experience to reverse it, was in Andrei's estimation a fairly minor sin. Naming one and making practical plans struck him as pretty major, to say nothing of handing Al-Nasir leverage over him if he handed the parchment over. Yet if he feigned horror now, the Turk might well turn hostile, and Andrei had no intention of repeating the mistake with Marchettus. He considered momentarily before writing again.

It is a poor hunter indeed who begins a hunt without understanding his prey or the tools he hunts with. I don't know you, much less any of the Conspirators, so I have no idea which one is unworthy. I also have little knowledge and less control of my abilities. The monster seems to have better control of my abilities than I do, but we have different aims in using them, and I cannot rely on it to aid me.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca grew more frustrated the more he tried to concentrate. The others had come into their power almost on instinct. Why was this so hard? "Because it's by far the greater ability. You alter someone's mind, they'll know it, resent you for it. Alter the world around them, and they'll behave as you please without ever being the wiser." Confidence restored, he selected a memory, a small and simple one, and tried to will it into reality.

Spending a Willpower point to create an auditory illusion of someone knocking on the door. Then we'll see if Gabrin answers it. :smallamused:

Manip+Sub (not specialty, IMO): [roll0]

Also, are we using the one night rule? I'm already down to half my starting WP points. :smalleek: Failing that, I might need to audit everything I've been doing up until now to see if any of it might be Natureish. Otherwise it'll be no illusions, rampant pickpocketing for Luca.


Regain a point of Willpower when your self-centered disposition leads you to profit, materially or otherwise. At the Storyteller’s discretion, accumulating gain without exposing your own weaknesses may let you regain two points of Willpower. As well, you may regain a point of Willpower when your efforts benefit the group to which you belong when that benefit comes at the expense of another group.

[Dark Seeker]

Seth

"Avoid the sun. All kindred suffer from it, but our clan has a unique severity. Bright light should also be avoided. Avoid fire. It is not pleasant to be lit aflame, even for our kind."

Lady Amisa stops the girl's brushing. "Our clan has unique powers. Perhaps you have already developed aptitude in a few. We can vanish into the shadows, or make others enthralled with us. Or we can use the gifts of Almighty Set to gain the powers of our god temporary. As a show of good faith, I shall offer you a free lesson in any of our powers. Which would you like to learn more about?

I assume Seth will be going with Obfuscate, but if you want to buy your first level in either of your other clan disciplines now, Amisa will gladly teach them.



Benghi

Focusing, Benghi is quickly abvle to pick up the man's trail. Having fled in blind terror, the hunter had made no effort to hide his tracks. It was rather simple to catch up with him.

The man lay against a tree, his body bruised and bloody. Benghi's beast stirs slightly at the sight, but the sailor is full enough to repress it.
The man looks at Benghi, absolute terror on his face. "Please... That woman, she is of the devil! Let me go. I have a wife and a family to care for." He attempts to be brave, but his tone is entirely pleading.

Solland

"Precisely. The most moving art is that which has been made through suffering!"

He sobers at Solland's question. "You have pinpointed it precisely. My burden is to put others through trials. If I do not teach them, how will they ever discover their true potential? I must occasionally do awful things, make those I inspire fear and loath me. But it brings into this world majestic art, so it is a necessary sacrifice."

"But do not worry childe! This unlife is not all suffering. There is ample pleasure to be found, if you desire it." He looks fondly at one of his own statues, and begins to caress it like a lover.

"So beautiful..."

Isabella

"Ah yes, the traditions. All good kindred should know them. Especially one of your pedigree.

"The First tradition is that Caine is the first vampire, from whom we all descend. Many of us can trace our lineage back to him. Serve me well, and I shall teach it to you. This will only add to your credibility in kindred circles.

The Second tradition is to respect the domain. Most kindred claim an area from which they can feed from. Feeding in that area without the Lord's permission is a grave insult. Do take care to avoid it.

"Thirdly, only create progeny with sanctioned approval. Embracing otherwise is a sin," Jadviga seems unconcerned that she herself broke this rule. " If you do embrace, a childe is then your responsibility until they have matured. Any offenses they cause in that time reflect on the sire. Do not embrace lightly.

"Lastly, keep your true nature hidden from the kine. The church has become very powerful, and we do not wish a war with humanity. It would prove wasteful."

Jadviga finishes her speech. "Before you go, I've a task for you. Subtly inquire as to what Lord Valdemar's childe thinks of him. When you return from Japheth, report that information to me."

Alenka

"Indeed! But you should consider yourself most fortunate. In the long run, you have been granted a great boon. As I've said, you can become greater than any mortal leader. Serve me well childe, and anything you desire shall be yours."

For the first time, his smile fades. "A final piece of advice. Be wary of my fellow conspirators. we are all allied due to Giovanni and a shared goal, not out of any love for one another. Of them all, be most careful around Jadviga Almanov. The woman is a snake. And I suspect that she is quite likely a traitor to our cause as well. Two years ago she was a loyal Venture who faithfully served her wretched clan. Now we are to believe she has defected from them to serve Giovanni's agenda? I do not believe it!

"Ah, but my words mean nothing to you. So I shall simplify. If an opportunity arises, sneak into Jadviga's chamber and find any evidence you can that indicates that she is a traitor to our Conspiracy. If she can be removed from the picture, the Lasombra clan shall gain even more influence from our victory. And I can ensure that Claudius adopts a foreign policy more favorable to our clan."

Andrei

Very wise. Indeed, there should be plenty of time to study the others. I am sure you will find one who is acceptable.

As for your powers, perhaps I can assist you. I shall teach you the most basic power of our clan. Do not assume that basic means it is ineffective. It has served me numerous times, and I think that you of all should appreciate it.
Call forth the blood. Project your power around yourself. You will be gifted with a sphere of utter silence that will surround you for one hour. This power is ideal for sneaking up on your prey, or sneaking in general. Once you feel you are ready, please feel free to stomp around my chambers. I shall tell you if you have been successful in applying it.

Luca

Gabrin studies Luca intently. A knock on the door breaks his concentration. He opens it, only to reveal no visitor forthcoming. He looks at his childe and grins.

"A very creative trick Dove! Too many of our kind default to visual illusions. But as you have witnessed, even a thrown sound can prove very effective. In time you shall learn even more than that. But where's the fun in it if I teach you it all myself? Experiment, and see what develops."

A good day's rest does restore a willpower point, you'll be happy to know. :smallsmile: I'm also going to say that Luca's efforts certainly benefited his group at the expense of the Conspiracy, so go ahead and regain a willpower now.

[Thundercracker]

Seth

"Indeed," he said.

Seth considered his options carefully.

"Show me how to vanish," he said, "the others sound intriguing, but invisibility will let me learn things I would not know otherwise, and knowledge is power, after all."

not enough experience to learn a new discipline.

[dancrilis]

Isabella

No restriction on murder here then she noticed.

So Jadviga also wanted to know about the noble lady of the Lasombra, the thought crossed her mind she is deeply infatuated with the man, her loyalty is absolute how Jadviga might react to that might be interesting ... perhaps not overly far from the truth either she had not shared much of the man himself when asked and did not seem overly hostile to him as she say comfortably at dinner the night of their deaths, but then none of the others did.

"I will do as you say" she curtsied and left taking the - before you - go as a dismissal.

Moving back to the main room to find Roderigo.

Assuming she found him she would request some paper and a writing tool and to be directed to Giovanni.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi nears the man, his outline barely visible in the dark night, and looks at him. Maybe just a poor bastard, he thinks, but is he really? Might as well...

He looks around for any animal looking on, just in case Dimitra has decided to check on him, before speaking. "What did you do to end there? What did you do to that woman?"

He nears the man, not making any hostile move, but looks on warily just in case he does something dangerous.

per+alertness to see if there's anything nearby [roll0]

[BananaPhone]

The name Valdemar mentioned did ring a bell.

"That's the whores sire isn't it?" Alenka questioned. It was no surprise to her that Jadgvia was as filthy as her childe. Isabella was a slimey snake that had made herself predictable in her ulterior motives and obnoxious with her fake pleasantries.

"I have no love for the harlot, nor her sire."

[daelrog]

And there it was laid before Solland. Wenceslas's hypocrisy was there in clear view, making the painter wonder silently if Wenceslas had referred to himself, and not the priest those years ago. It was doubtful, though it gave him brief pause.

Could a man truly love his own hypocrisy, could Wenceslas accept the monstrous things he did, treat them as a burden, and love them at the same time? It was not so far fetched as it sounded, and who knew what conflicting emotions the damned felt.

It made him truly curious to the man, the monster. However, Solland's thoughts moved back to the girl. "Megan." He hoped the girl's name would stir Wenceslas from his stupor. Apparently their Clan's curse was not just to fall prey to what was beautiful, but what each individual did. "I would much like to see if she is all right, I don't know if any have looked to her since Isabella tried to murder her. Perhaps I could start on a portrait of her since I was not the one to save her?" He would be though.

[Dark Seeker]

Seth

"An interesting choice, but not necessarily a bad one. Let us start with the basics. First, walk over there," Lady Amisa gestures to the corner of the room. It is dark, far away from the only source of light, a small wax candle.

"Now, let the shadows curl around you. Picture yourself fading from view. Remain motionless and completely silent."

Isabella

"See that you do. Good day, Childe."

Isabella quickly locates Roderigo. Lothar appears to be lecturing him. When he notices Isabella, the steward frowns. "What do you want?"

Benghi

Benghi notices a few birds and rabbits, any of whom could theoretically be Dimitra. However, It strikes him as unlikely that his sire would take such a docile form, although he could not be certain.

"I am a hunter. I found a majestic deer in these wounds. I pursued it for a time, eventually killing it. That was when that woman appeared suddenly. she challenged me to a race. She became angry when I refused, and overpowered me. When next I awoke I was tied to that tree."

The man calms slightly, perhaps hoping that Benghi allowing him to talk was proof he would keep him alive. "Please, let me go! She is a vile thing. There are rumors of the inn housing demons, but I never believed them. Until today."

Alenka

"Perceptive childe! You learn quickly. Yes, whereas I searched far and wide for a powerful countess and distinguished of the kine, Jadviga was content with... that. Further proof of our superiority as a clan.

"I am glad you have no love for either of them. If you can prove Jadviga is a traitor, I shall become very powerful within the Conspiracy indeed. That woman has Claudius ear, and I fear she has bewitched him in some way. But I can see that she is a threat to everything we hope to accomplish."

Solland

The name does indeed stir Wenceslas from his longing for his own statue. He looks at Solland blankly for a moment, before realization hits him.

"Ah yes, Megan. I should check on her. She does belong to me after all. I fear for her, truly. Without my protection, who knows where she would end up." He begins to pace the room again.

"But she needn't worry about that, no, never. I have fed her by blood. She shall never age. She shall forever be my little angel, her innocence preserved for all eternity." The smile on his face is serene, only adding to the vileness of his words.

"You may be allowed to sketch her. Though I doubt even one such as you could capture her innocence in a painting. Excuse me for a moment." He focuses, his gaze intent. After a moment he returns his attention to Solland and smiles.

"I have summoned her to me. She will be here soon."

[daelrog]

Solland is going to push his dexterity to 6 for the roll(s) to come.

Solland let the blood flo through his body. He felt a control over it that he had never experienced before. If he wished to walk on his hands, he could. If he wanted to bend his dead flesh back and put his palms and the floor while his feet still stood on the ground, it would be but child's play. The thought of such control extended to his fingertips was enthralling, making him forget his guilt for the moment.

Then his mind turned to his sword. Was he still not strong? Could he not simply draw it and cut down Wenceslas now? Wenceslas did not seem like a warrior, and Solland had this moment to strike him down. If not the sword, than the stake. Paralyze Wenceslas, keep him from screaming. Take his time to ensure the demon was destroyed.

But a calm voice inside told him to wait. It told him to live. To kill Wenceslas now would seal his fate, he could not escape this inn, he could not save the girl Megan, and he would jeopardize all the others embraced with him.

"Why are you here, Sire? Talks of war, politics, Clans, these mean nothing to me. You have not once spoken of having a passion for any of these things compared to your desire to teach." As he spoke, he looked deep within and projected himself towards Wenceslas. Subtlely, the beast within demanded respect and admiration from the kindred.

Using awe. Charisma + Performance = 6
[roll0]

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca couldn't help but laugh. "No fun at all." He rose from his chair. "Well, thank you for your assistance, Gabrin. Hopefully I can return the favor. I'll-" Make you proud? Bah. Luca's lips twisted in a wry grin. "Endeavor to keep you entertained." He walked out into the hall, looking for a servant who could show him to his accommodations.

Gabrin seems to want Luca to learn on his own, and Luca wants to get back to confer with his allies before sunrise. So I figure everyone wins by wrapping up the conversation for now. :smallbiggrin:

[Thundercracker]

Seth
Seth did as he was told, feeling slightly foolish as he stood in the corner like he'd instructed Erwin to do when he'd misbehaved, not so many years ago.

He stilled his breath, and realized he no longer needed to breathe.

A definite advantage in staying quiet

[BananaPhone]

Alenka's face remained impassive. Internally she was curious...she thought Valdemar had nothing to do with the "selection" process...so why had he just said he searched far and wide...and just for a nights fun? The scent of horse manure was precipitating.

"The world would be better off without her." Alenka said.

Would it - truly?

Alenka didn't know. She barely knew a thing about Jadgvia, other than her putrid taste in shoes. But any specimen that willfully brought that filthy temptress into the folds of power was clearly bad news.

Perhaps she could get Luca in on this? Alenka thought to herself. The young gentleman didn't seem to fond of Isabella either - perhaps he would be rather fond of the idea of causing her some distress by humiliating her sire.

But if Alenka had to guess, she'd wager that the Venetian had already tried to seduce her own sire...the countess repressed a shudder. Mountain people engaged in that sort of incestuous frivolity...not civilised folk. That girl would rub up against anything that'd take her in for the night...

"In what esteem is she held in within the eyes of the others?"

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

The man, it appears, does not know much. If he is not lying, at least, but he appears to be too scared to lie so well right now - not that such subterfuge comes easy to hunters (or, for that matter, sailors). Benghi wrestles internally with the choice he'd made, before setting on his course. It would require chance, he thinks - mostly on that man's part, but both would have a lot fewer chances if Dimitra gets wind on this.

He closes in on the man until he whispers in his ear, quiet enough for only him to hear. "Do this if you want to live. When you wake up, do not immediately go to the village. You have to appear dead. When you do, say you had an accident and fell in a ravine. Do not mention the inn any of what happened here to anyone - saint or sinner. Do not as much as mention it in a prayer out loud. If you do, you will doom yourself to worse death than if that woman had torn you limb from limb. You have trespassed on bad ground... old spirit ground, and those who walk it do not get off easy. If you mention it, you will beckon them, and they will take you away. Do you understand?"

After he says that, Benghi waits to see if the man appears to understand and assent. He then seems to embrace him and pat him on the back, whispering "God be with you." - before sinking his teeth in the man's neck.

He drinks until he feels the man slumping unconscious (and a bit more to be sure) then lets him slump on the ground. Unwilling to waste any precious vitae, he licks the small wounds, eyes widening as he sees the effects. "Right. To work now," he says, eyeing the nearby woods for a place where the man's body might be concealed - from people or predators - until he comes to. If he comes to, a pang of conscience says, but he shrugs internally. In case anyone is checking up on him, the man should appear dead.

He heads to a small ravine he noticed earlier, and conceals the body there in a thick bush, covering most of it with a layer of leaves and soil. If the man's lucky, he will avoid predators until he comes to. He then turns back to meet his sire. Well, the man seemed dead, he tells himself, and he was sated. And of course he had to hide the body - what would happen if some woodcutter or some such happened to find it?

Alright, Benghi's idea is to drink the man unconscious, hide the body and say he drank until the man died. Of course, there is a chance the man WILL die, but it has to seem believable in case Dimitra looks on. BTW, would I need to roll dexterity + stealth to conceal him, or something else?

[dancrilis]

Isabella

Hmm ... well this was interesting "Why Lothar you were so pleasant to me in our first meeting", she laid her hand on Roderigo's arm ... could she kill Lothar and arrange for Roderigo to take his place she wondered as she smiled delicately at the steward "I merely wanted to speak to Roderigo", her smile turned mischievous "and reward him for his good service to me, perhaps by offering him a service in turn" she voice light and flighty.

"Though I would also like some paper to collect my thoughts as well, and perhaps to speak to your master if he is not busy", she looked at Lothar expectantly.

A thought occurred to her as she let her eyes trail over Lothar's body her smile turned wide, "although now that I think about it I suppose I owe you also, don't I?" her voice filled with lust.


Seduction of Lothar.
Appearance + Subterfuge - Speciality should apply:
[roll0]
Diff: Wits + 3, (-2 for enchanting voice).

Entrancement of Lothar:
Appearance + Subterfuge - Speciality should apply:
[roll1]
Diff: Willpower

She is trying to mask the heightened feelings of Entrancement turning him into a servant with instilling him with a general desire to enjoy her company.

[Dark Seeker]

Solland

"Ah, politics! You are right to have nothing to do with it! Mark my words Childe, she is a lover who shall always burn you!

"I do not hate Japheth, no. I have never met him, but I do not hold the grudge against him that most of the others seem to. But think of what Claudius seeks to accomplish!" He appears in front of Solland once again, looking at his childe with adoration. "He seeks to destroy his own brother! It will be as if we are witnessing the Dark Father destroying Abel! To see such a sight, such a spectacle. How could I refuse? I shall bear witness to momentous history. And you childe shall be there with me, sketching away and immortalizing the scene for all of our kind!" He lets out a merry laugh.

A knock on the door breaks his concentration. Wenceslas clasps his hand sin delight. "Ah, she is here!" He moves to open it.
"Hello my little ang..." He stops mid sentence. " A man is at the door. He looks tired, his hair already nearly fully gray.

Wenceslas looks sternly at the newcomer."Where is Megan!"

The man swallowed deeply before answering. "Please m...my Lord. My daughter. She is unwell. Allow her to rest for the..."

Faster than Solland can make out, Alban is thrown against the wall, Wenceslas tightly gripping his throat. He speaks in a low voice.

"I. Want. My. Megan."

Megan's father struggles and shakes, but nods pitifully. Wenceslas releases him. "Now. Bring her to me. I wish to see if she is well." The man wonders off, a pronounced limp in his walk.
Wenceslas closes the door again. He seems frustrated.

Luca

"You do that, Dove. No matter what else happens, do put on a show. Unlife's too long to spend it in tedium."

Luca finds his way to his resting chambers easily enough. Apparently the Earl has already had them prepared for his new guests. A comfortable mat awaits him.

Seth

Amisa remains silent, observing her childe with a stern expression on her face. Finally, she breaks out in a smile. "Well done. And on your first attempt as well. The power of our god is strong within you. Continue to practice. As you age, so too will your powers.

"If there is nothing else, you may feel free to go. Do not hesitate to return to me if you have questions or concerns, especially amongst your fellow fledglings. They will not be as enlightened as you. Hold firm on our path, and do not allow their misguided lies to affect you."

Alenka

"Despite his usual sense, Lord Mieczyslav has bonded with Jadviga. The two share a love for the same... activities. He is reluctant to assist me in uncovering her treachery. That fool Wenceslas is friendly enough with her. Lord Casmir and Jadviga share high births, so they have maintained a cordial relationship.

"As for who dislikes her, Violetta hates her, but she hates everyone. Dimitra does not trust Jadviga. Marchettus seems to resent her. Who knows what the madwoman thinks. She has expertly made alliances with most of the powerful kindred, so none dare move against her. That is why I shall have to be subtle when dealing with her. Do try not to screw things up, childe. It would reflect most poorly on me."

"If there is nothing else, you are dismissed. I must do some more research." He turns to his books.

Benghi

Slowly, the hunter nods. "I, I promise! Not a word to anyone, I swear! I won't let them carry me away!"

He lets out a shudder as Benghi drinks from him. This man has most satisfying blood, rich and thick. Benghi can understand why Dimitra was looking forward to hunting him. When he withdraws, the man slumps to the ground, looking for all purposes dead. Only his slight breathing breaks the illusion
.

Go ahead and make a wits+ stealth roll to properly hide the hunter.



Isabella

The steward's scowl turns into something else entirely. "Well um, if you need Roderigo you can take him. I have no further use for him."

Her request catches his attention. "Paper, you say? I'll be right back with it. Do not go anywhere," He scurries off, eager to return quickly.
Roderigo watches all of this, chuckling.

"Thank you for your assistance lass. Now, what can I help you with?" His voice turns serious and drops to a whisper. "You wish to meet with Earl Giovanni? May I ask why?"

[Thundercracker]

Seth

Seth nodded, recognizing a dismissal when he heard one.

He attempted to find his way back to the common area, where everyone had been gathered only moments earlier.

[daelrog]

Solland felt the beast yearn for him to kill Wenceslas. The man was beginning to understand that the Beast was not separate from his own heart. No, it was the dark passion within his own soul. The devil would want his Sire alive, would he not? It was not a comforting thought.

Wenceslas was not a warrior, but yes, he was fast. The strike had to be when he was distracted. There was no other way.

"Perhaps we can follow her father and go to her instead? If she is weak, we can check on her where she lay, and I can begin as she rests? I could use to stretch my legs."

Solland stood up, emphasizing his desire to go to her instead of waiting. "Perhaps as we go you cold tell me which of your allies to be careful around. If I'm to stay away from the politics I would know which ones will try to use me."

[Dark Seeker]

Seth and Isabella

Seth finds himself back to the common room. The Conspiracy have all retired to their chambers. Isabella and Roderigo remain, deep in conversation.

Solland

Wenceslas nods. "That's a most excellent idea. Megan should not be moved in her current condition. The poor dear has had quite a fright." He opens the door. "I'd most love to see your sketch of her. If you can truly capture her though your art, you may be the most talented of my prodigy yet."

He beings to walk, answering Solland as he goes.

"Most of my 'allies' are horrid monsters I have little in common with. Few of them can truly understand art, though Lady Jadviga's grooming means I've been able to have some conversations with her about the subject. The one you should most avoid is Matron Violetta. She is a Nosferatu, so I suppose the dear can not help it, but you've seen how hideous he is. She's grown to hate beauty in all of it's forms. A disgusting and frankly pitiful creature.

"Several of the others lack any artistic vision. Be glad you are a Toreador childe. Most of the other clans would disdain you for wasting your time on such things. Only we understand the importance of it."

[daelrog]

Solland nodded his head to his sire. So like the Founder, Wenceslas put the Toreador above all the others. No doubt each Clan held that claim for one reason or another.

He focused on the task at hand. He may only have the one chance to draw this girl to perfection. He could not fail this time, for the girl's sake. Not this Japheth he had never met, some ancient, but for her.

[dancrilis]

Isabella and Seth (somewhat)

She smiled as Lothar scurried off, well it seemed to have worked. Her smile turned to a frown at Roderigo question "It is normally good to have an understanding of those you work for, I wished to request you as a guard but I suppose that has been authorised now", Lothar was in charge during the day after all.

Seeing Seth she could have cursed, she had nothing against the man he seemed reasonable and educated from what she could gather ... but she had been looking forward to being able to speak even somewhat plainly.

Her arm snaked around Roderigo's neck as she drew herself close, placing her lips at his ear and keeping her voice very low like a lovers whisper, "don't worry I do not intend to force you, but there are elements which we need to discuss in private" some with Lothar some without she left unsaid.

She took a step back from the man to allow the older man to join them offering him a smile, "I hope your night has went well, and you have found your sire to be everything you had hoped?", may as well be pleasant until Lothar returned, who knows perhaps a fun fact regarding his sire might cause her to re-prioritise.

[Thundercracker]

Seth
"She did not consign me to a coffin to be buried alive, only to let me free to murder me over suckling pig, so I can only consider our most recent meeting an improvement," Seth replied.

"How was yours?" he asked.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

wits+stealth: [roll0]

Well, he thinks as he examines his handiwork, that would have to do. Between the bush the man is already hidden in and his own work, he has a chance. The rest is up to God, the devil, and whatever other forces were at play. Really, were there fairies as well, he wonders. Though after what he'd been told of the wolfmen, he isn't quite sure he wants to know the answer.

Either way, it's out of his hands now. He just hopes the man has the sense to do as he's told and stays there for a while.

[dancrilis]

Isabella and Seth

She smiled at the older man, "Ha, if that trend continues you and her can be great friends", she was happy for the man he was old and shouldn't have had to deal with that on his last night alive.

"My night was all right, learned a lot, did not suffer a whipping, didn't feel a particular need to burn a building down", she winked at him, let him make of that what he would, "I stand by the high praise I levelled on my sire on the trip here", the walls may have ears but if he intended to move against anyone tonight he should know as much as possible, "if you are interested in establishing a name for yourself and introducing yourself to her I can tell you where she is?", and if he used that knowledge and whatever powers he had to complete the mission of killing her ... well that would be terrible.

Hopefully Lothar would return shortly and she could start on her own plans.

[Dark Seeker]

Solland

The two kindred follow Megan's father back to his room in the servant quarters. These rooms are much less expansive and comfortable. two small beds and a tiny desk are the only furniture in this one. Megaln lays in bed, her face lighting up as her father returns. Her gaze soon switches to Wenceslas. She stares at him as if bewitched.

"There's my girl," Wenceslas whispers. He stares at her for a moment, before casting a spiteful look at her father.

"Leave us!"

The man looks as though he wants to resist, but he knows it would be futile. Casting one final look at his daughter, he retreats from the room, closing the door behind him.

"Megan darling, are you alright? That fiend did not hurt you did she?"

"No, Sire Wenceslas."

"Rest assure I shall deal with her. No one hurts my girl." He introduces Solland. "This is Mr. Solland. He's going to sketch you. Your beauty should be shared with the world. Say hello, my dear."

The girl looks at Solland, barely concealed fear in her eyes. "He...Hello."

"Such a good girl!" He leans down to stroke her hair, his attention focused solely on her.

Isabella and Seth

Roderigo looks a little uneasy to be so near Isabella, but he also seems a little lustful. Her powers must still be effecting him. "Of c...course."

Lothar returns with parchment and quill in hand. He pushes Seth out of the way and all but throws them at Isabella.

"Here you go. Is there, uh, anything else I can do for you?" he licks his lips and stares.

Seth can feel free to reply before Lothar returns.



Benghi

Benghi is able to find a spot in the bush that makes the man all but invisible. There still remains a risk that an animal could come along and find him, but at this point he has done all he can.

Benghi finds Dimitri waiting for him at the edge of the forest. She looks impatient."There you are! I was beginning to think a mere kine had outrun you." She smiles, approaching her childe and stroking his face.

"Tell me of your hunt. Did not the blood seem invigorating? I find a good hunt before the kill makes the blood taste even better."

[BananaPhone]

Just like that, she was dismissed. It was an action she was unused to.

Picking herself up, Alenka departed Valdemars hold for the hallways. She allowed a servant to direct her to her quarters while she pondered the situation.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

Benghi nears his sire, appearing somewhat exhilarated and excited - and truth be told, it comes easy to him, especially now. He smirks his spirits obviously a lot better than his somewhat sulking mood as he left. "Oh, it was good. Not quite as good as the first one, I imagine - I was ravenous then, and words fail to describe how it tasted. I was hoping for more of a challenge, really. The man was hardly a test, sadly... way too scared and weakened for that. At least he ran, I'll give him that," he adds, wistfully, then smiles as he looks down at her hand, then at her as he makes a small step towards her.

"Though I'm not sure why you bothered tying him to begin with, Dimitra. If you wanted to do something, why not then and there?"

[Thundercracker]

Seth

Seth glared at Lothar as the other man pushed past him.

"You've bewitched him too?" he asked, turning towards Isabella.

"This truly is a curious power you've gained, or perhaps it's one you've had all along?"

He smiled.

What a strange new world I've stumbled into...

[dancrilis]

Isabella and Seth

She beamed at Lothar's return, "careful" she laughed as if the push was accidental as she reached out to steady Seth, "thank you Sir Lothar ... for the tools I will be sure to reward you fully".

Had her heart beat it would have leaped when Seth called her on bewitching Lothar, not only did the walls potentially have ears, Lothar was not aware of the power at least in theory.

A two minute conversation with another dead as long as her and he had jeopardized the plan already twice over, losing control for a second she shoot his a deadly look before composing herself and laughing it off, "ha well I have been said to be bewitching on occasion ... and Lothar seems to have tastes that I too can enjoy" she smiled at the steward, "and I am sure that we can come to a fulfilling relationship while we serve under each other in the service of Lord Giovanni", she attempted to ensure that Lothar's attention was on her rather then the other man's words with obvious innuendo.

Taking the paper and pen she made some quick scratches while thinking quickly, the servant was not invited, so he was unlikely to be a trap, e had not obvious love for his sire so he had not been obviously compromised, she might need allies in the days ahead ... all added up to a reason to show trust, on the other hand he lacked subtlety, "ha" she laughed her voice pleasant and comforting filled with joy "my penmanship is slipping" she showed him a note "find a room away from members of the conspiracy, single entrance, no fire, lock it well", it was both good advise that she could justify if he betrayed her but should also keep him safe if he followed it, she scribbled it out chuckling to herself "truly dire I shall have to work on it".

"Lothar, Roderigo I would love you to accompany me to find a safe room where we can enjoy each others company in private", she looked both men in the eye with clear lust, indicating to be led away.

[Thundercracker]

Seth

The older man simply watched quietly as the three made their way off. He rolled his eyes once they were out of sight.

He sighed and leaned against a wall, waiting for another to return to the common area. Osiris curled around his ankles again, purring quietly.

An eternity of this? Perhaps I did die and this is punishment for all my sins.

[daelrog]

Solland held back tears of blood. Taking a seat, and watching that thing. God forgive him for not having the strength to end it now. If only he could tell the girl it was all right, he would save her soon, but she was no doubt under his spell.

"I will begin once you have checked on her sire. As you know, I work best when it is but the individual and myself. You understand this as an artist." He hoped between his own small influence over Wenceslas, and the truth of the statement would encourage him to leave. Truly, he could not draw with Wenceslas present.

Aura perception on Megan. [roll0] difficulty 8.

[Dark Seeker]

Alenka and Luca

Alenka is guided to her quarters. They are comfortable, if slightly less extravagant then her usual sleeping arrangements.

Luca is already there when Alenka walks in.

Benghi

Dimitra nods in approval. "The first meal is always one of the most special. I wasted mine on a beggar, but he tasted like the finest of nobility." she smiles faintly, her gaze far away.

"As for why I tied him up, it is the same reason behind testing all of you at Claudius's dinner. It builds anticipation. Let the kine see he is doomed. And then offer him a chance at escape that is no chance at all. Seeing a kine invest all of their energy in a futile escape makes them taste all the sweeter." She licks her lips.


Isabella and Seth

Thankfully, Lothar seems to be too far gone to fully understand the implications of Seth's words. He leers openly at Isabella.

"Yes, I know a private room we can use. Is it really necessary to invite the coachman though? I can satisfy all of your needs."

Roderigo replies quickly. "I believe Lady Isabella shares the same tastes as her sire. I am to be your entertainment, not actively partake in the festivities."

This seems to satisfy Lothar. He grabs Isabella's hand and leads her away, Roderigo following. The trio soon come across spare bedroom. No one else is around.

Solland

"Leave Megan? But I was going to read her a story. And give her some of my blood.." Wenceslas looks as though he's going to refuse, but Solland's power takes hold.

"I suppose you can have her for a few moments. I shall return in a half hour to see if your sketch matches her beauty. Do not touch her." He looks stern as he says this.

He leaves the room, and Solland and Megan are alone. The fledgling Toreador detects a strong white aura on the girl. It fades in and out, replaced by a sickly silver.

The girl remains silent, frightened.

[JonRG]

Luca

Luca sat cross-legged on the mat, tapping across its surface in curious patterns. "So if Jadviga and Valdemar are at each other's throats, then... I really should have insisted on the chess board." Granted, he could always try to conjure one, but the effect was somewhat taxing to produce. Footsteps cut through Luca's thoughts. To his relief, they are Alenka's. "Ah, Lady Vasa! How wonderful to see you again!" He scooted over on the mat, so that she could sit next to him if she wished. "I take it your reunion with Valdemar was not pleasant?"

[daelrog]

Solland breathes out, no longer able to hold the tears at what he sees before him. A few drops form in his eyes, which he wipes away.

"You appear sad, Megan. I'm sorry." He tried to appear genuinely concerned for her, not the corrupted way of Wenceslas, but more as an older brother. "I met Wenceslas a couple nights ago... I am much under the same spell as you. Say nothing to me that you would not say to Wenceslas for he is likely to ask either of us what we spoke of, and it would not do to make him angry

"Please tell me a little about yourself. Whatever you think is important, just for a few minutes. Afterwards, you may rest, and I will begin to draw you. Do I have your permission?"

He doubted anyone had ever asked the girl for permission for anything. It was the best he could do to show her his good intentions.

Time for some important roles.

First one is expression + charisma as Solland tries to earn Megan's trust, the legitimate, non-presence way.

Second is for perception + empathy trying to see who the girl is by what she talkes about. It falls under his specialty.

I'm using a will power point for each of these roles.

Expression + Charisma: [roll0]
Empathy + Perception: [roll1]

[Dark Seeker]

Solland

The fear in Megan's eyes seems to retreat a small amount. She still looks wary, but she nods and begins to speak.

"I'm okay. Sire Wenceslas is good to me. He tells me that he keeps me and father safe from the monsters. The monsters killed mommy, but he promises that if I'm a good girl they'll never harm either of us. He's protected me many times. He has given me his blood so that he'll always be with me."

If Solland had to guess, it seems clear that Megan's reaction is being influenced in part by some sort of power.

The girl thinks. "I like to sing. I can write all my letters! I help grandpa with setting out the hay," she looks excited. "A drawing, of me? Will you make it pretty?"

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

"Does it really?" he asks, somewhat sceptical, then shrugs. "It feels like... cheating, of sorts. " When people meet in hife, as he sees it, it is a system of exchanges - when you give, you have to take, and vice versa. Even if you "game" the system, you just open a loophole somewhere else. Rigging the system altogether strikes him as fundamentally unfair... and life had a way - and a responsibility - to fix imbalances like that. Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth - whether you were strong enough to mete justice was your own problem, but you had the right and, if you were able, the obligation to do so.

Still, Benghi realizes, this is hardly the time to discuss philosophy, especially with Dimitra. He can't shake the feeling her moto in life was that she wanted to do whatever she wanted, and screw everyone else. It wasn't a rare position, as such, but not one he considered a code worth looking up to. "Oh well, enough of that. So now that that's done, what now? There is still some time before daybreak."

[daelrog]

"I will do my best." Solland smiled. She knew all of her letters? It was more than he could say for himself. He was only encouraged to draw, not to write.

He began to draw. Putting everything he had into it, for there was too much at stake. His fingers adjusted to the fine manipulation they were cabable of making, putting tiny strokes of shading that were impossible for a normal man. He had to make sure he had enough before half an hour was up to finish on his own, he had to make sure that Wenceslas did not see until the finished product was made.

All right, spending one more blood to put his dexterity up to 7 for the scene. Add one two celerity and 5 crafts = 14. Also spending a will power point for an auto success. 10's count as two successes.

[roll0]

[BananaPhone]

Alenka offered a curt smile to Gelescue as he seemed genuinely pleased to see her.

"Lord Augustin." she greeted.

"It is a relief to encounter hospitable company."

The Countess moved so that she was opposite the nobleman. Though she did not mind his offer to sit next to her, the propriety of life still lingered in her judgment and habit placed her adjacent to the man rather than next to him. That was a place reserved for intimate partners.

To his question, Alenka offered a knowing smile. "My dear sir, however could you suggest such a thing? My sire exudes charm with his reassuring and calming presence," she mused.

[JonRG]

Luca

He laughed. "Yes, of course. How foolish of me." The door was closed, and they were alone, for now. Luca had best get this over with. "Listen, there's... something I need to tell you." Luca fidgeted on the mat. This discussion had gone over well with Solland, but the artist wasn't part of the group Luca had infiltrated. He wasn't nearly as beautiful either. "I'm not a lord. My name's not even Augustin. It's Luca." He sighed. "I didn't mean for the charade to go on so long, but there was never a good opportunity to end it. Besides, playing the part does have its advantages. I think Brandusa and "Lady" Isabella would have harassed me more if they knew I was a lowly commoner." Luca rolled his eyes at the departed nobleman's memory. "I realize you might not be thrilled with me at the moment, but I do hope you can forgive me. After all, you're the smartest - and loveliest - of our merry band. I'm not sure I can manage this scheme without you, even if it is more in my wheelhouse than yours." He flashed her a confident grin, mentally bracing himself to be slapped.

[Dark Seeker]

Benghi

Dimitri narrows her eyes. "I never cheat. I give the kine a fair chance to escape. That they all fail earns me the right as the hunter to do with them as I please. " Mercifully, she lets the matter drop, she shakes her head, looking off into the distance.

"Be wary of Japheth. Even though his moral code weakens him, he is powerful. It would not due to have you destroyed." Briefly, her voice fills with some sort of tenderness.

"When you return from your meeting with him, we shall begin your lessons, and you shall truly learn to appreciate the gifts that flow within your blood. For now, you may leave. Perhaps you can learn from the other fledglings what their sires taught them. I think you will agree that my lessons are the most practical."

Solland

Skillfully, Solland begins to draw. Megan fidgets a little, but eventually grows still.

Any fears Solland had of losing his art forever is dispelled. He can see that he is drawing a most accurate representation of Megan that captures her body and spirit. Her eyes reflect the sadness, and perhaps more importantly, the innocence that Wenceslas is so enthralled by.

The door opens suddenly, breaking the artist's concentration. Wenceslas storms in, looking fidgety.

"The half hour is up! I must speak with Megan now." He looks pointedly at Solland. "Alone."


Andrei

Andrei is at a loss as to how to use his new power. How could one tell when they had eliminated sound from the environment, if one could not even hear it to begin with? He does as Al-Nasir suggests, closing his eyes and focusing on pushing the sound out of his environment. The hunter feels a slight chill. When he opens his eyes, Al-Nasir tosses a pebble at his feet. As soon a sit lands, the elder looks pleased.

"Well done! Of course, you are probably not aware of it, but you have successfully muted the location around you of all sound. You may question the usefulness of this, but consider this; You have lived your life without it, and so have adapted. Most others have the ability to hear and take it for granted. They rely on it. Robbing them of their ability to detect you may well cripple them," He strides forward and pats his childe on the shoulder. "Ah yes, you may yet become a great Assamite.

"That is enough for tonight. When you return from Japheth's, seek me out and I shall teach you more."

As Andrei leaves, he feels a hand on his shoulder. Turning around, he catches a glimpse at his bear necklace.

The young servant girl from the dinner stares back at him. She seems both intrigued and frightened.

[daelrog]

Solland nods his head in obedience. "Of course. I will complete it on my journey to see this Japheth, and show it to you upon my return." He stood up, and left, unable to look at Wenceslas in the eye.

He moved to where his own quarters were. He let out a deep sigh from habit, and fell to his bed, hoping sleep would take him soon. He tried to think os something other than the poor girl, but thoughts of Wenceslas and his lustful eyes, and look of revulsion and hate from Isabella filled his mind.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

"I'll hold you to that, then," the young Gangrel nods, and then shrugs. "Don't worry. I've no intention of dying again anytime soon, especially if it's on a task I relish as little as helping that Giovanni. The next time may end up permanent..."

He snorts, and nods towards the Inn. "I'll be heading to the house then. I want to check what the rest have been up to before the sun rises. Till the next evening, sire - unless you intend to finish what we started a while back?" he adds with a wink.

Barring any interruptions to that effect, he heads towards the inn, and then greets the innkeeper. "Evening. What rooms are my fellows staying?"

[BananaPhone]

Alenka remained silent as "Luca" explained himself honestly.

So, he had been deceiving her the whole time. He wasn't of noble blood. His compliments were feeble bouts of damage control as Alenka mentally sunk inwards to consider this turn of events. The only person here she seemed to extend a modicum of trust to had been lying to her.

"I see." she answered, her tone neutral. It was the lying that was so hurtful.

"And what has inspired your sudden honesty?" she inquired, her voice remaining eerily colorless.

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei's hands began shaking as he closed the door. Part of it was from sheer exertion; wracking his mind to figure out how to consciously extend the void of silence he lived in had proven incredibly taxing both physically and mentally. Part of it was a residual effect of him amping up his speed. But most of it was from trying to hold in his visceral disgust of and pity for the creature he had just left. Feigning anything more towards Al-Nasir made him want to scrub his skin off with lye. When the hand came down on his shoulder, his first instinct was to whirl and strike.

Instead, he straightened, relaxed and turned . . .

. . . And almost bowled the poor serving woman over with a hug that even Gavril's famed rib-cracking squeezes would have been hard-pressed to match for sheer enthusiasm. As it was, he lacked Gavril's raw strength, but he was still more than capable of lifting the woman off her feet and swinging her around, his expression ecstatic. Suddenly remembering himself, he gently set her back down, took an awkward step back, and tugged his clothing straight, his expression turned sheepish. But as he looked back at her, he could not but show joy in his eyes and face that this woman had survived. With his right index finger, he drew a series of imaginary squiggles in his left. How did she survive?

[JonRG]

Luca

"She's certainly not thrilled, but she didn't hit me either." Luca frowned slightly. "It wasn't sudden. You just haven't been alone until now. Besides, you didn't exactly ask my name. Guess you're just observant. Very least, you and I both see that Isabella warrants some measure of concern. You saw how she flirted with her sire. I half-expect to hear, 'Oh no, we can't kill her,' when she returns. I suppose we will see." He sighed. "I presume Valdemar would like Jadviga gone? That's good. Her death earns you his favor." Luca wondered if he should try to explain himself. "Anything else you want to know, just ask," he said with a shrug. That was the best Luca could offer, for the moment.

[BananaPhone]

The countess took what Luca was saying and stored it in her head for later analysis.

She would go over what he had said at a later time, and at that point she would weigh up the truths and the suspicious comments of their discourse so far and determine whether he was trustworthy.

"At a later point." she answered, her tone not softening but remaining polite and professional instead.

"But yes, Jadviga is not long for this world, it would seem. Although I have no love for Valdemar, the idea of that soulless whore obtaining favor with the sole remaining competitor of Claudius' affections is rather distressing to me, as I imagine it would be to you also."

Alenka paused, considering something.

"I have not pressed for information, but if I were to speculate I would conclude that the ones amongst the conspiracy that favor Jadviga only do so because of Giovanni's unofficial patronage of her. Throw that in doubt and it will push away both her support and the railing she is leaning against."

[JonRG]

Luca

"Indeed. I fear the temptation might be too much for her to resist..." Luca closed his eyes in a moment's contemplation. "Valdemar accused Jadviga of betraying the Conspiracy to her clanmate, did he not? If evidence of such treachery were to be found, or if need be, manufactured..." He grinned at the thought. "The conspirators would fight to destroy her. It need not be known that Valdemar or any of us were responsible." The job came first; his feelings would have to wait.

[Dark Seeker]

Benghi

The innkeeper looks up at Benghi, but says nothing. Soon he goes back to cleaning the floor. The man was not much for talking.

A passing servant leads Benghi to the fledglings room. He finds Countess Alenka and Lord Augustin there. They are already in the midst of a conversation.

Andrei

The girl squirms in Andrei's arms, a bit startled by his affection. When she is released, she smiles shyly at the Assamite.

His question is met with silence. She shakes her head. And then she opens her mouth, and Andrei sees why.

Someone had removed the girl's tongue.

[BananaPhone]

"There are those amongst the conspiracy that do not like the woman and would very much enjoy seeing her perish. If we were to discover evidence of her treachery and it should somehow find its way into the hands of these kindred..."

[daelrog]

Solland looked up from his bed. "Careful to speak too loudly. One of the gifts I've gained is the ability to hear remarkably well if I choose so, it is likely some of our Sires possess it too. Know that for my part I will see my sire when we get back from delivering this message. I will show him the portrait I'm drawing of the girl, Megan. I will show it to him alone." He gave the two of them a knowing look. He was letting them know that he was ready to slay Wenceslas upon their return, and was not inclined to wait any longer.

[McStabbington]

Andrei

Andrei gently cupped her chin with his hand, closing the young woman's mouth. Sliding his hand down, he clasped hers, and with tender yet inexorable pull, drew her after him. He walked back to the common room and, still holding her hand, threw up the deadbolt, opened the door, and strode outside.

The scene outside was beautiful and placid. The stars shone brightly overhead. In the East, the Morning Star slid close to her dawn station. And overhead, the half moon coated the ground in a layer of silver light. Seeing the huntress and the sailor coming from his right, he veered left, pulling her towards the edge of the woods, hunting for a patch of soft earth or mud.

Finding such a patch, he dropped her hand. Grabbing a stick with his right, he scrawled out a single word. He looked up at her, his eyes glowing red, but this time, it was not hate that burned in his heart. No, his heart felt as icy cold as the ground appeared. The monster within him raised its voice for a moment, only for him to coldly slam it back into the crevice within his mind.

This was done to an innocent. And it demanded justice.

He tapped the word again with his stick, and then gently held the stick out for the young woman.

The word scrawled in the dirt was Who.

[The_Shaman]

Benghi

He is startled for a moment, but then mentally shrugs. Sure, they are noble, but then again - they were all dead. Well, mostly. All the stories and the truths they had ended with how they lived long and happily ever after (or short and very painfully for a little while - long while if it was a really nasty story). So what happened after the ever after?

"Evening, lord and lady. I hope I do not interrupt?" he says with a nod. Doesn't hurt to be a bit polite, he guesses.

[Karnius]

Stefan flinches at Mieczyslav's grip on his shoulder but follows him to the closet. As the door opens, the doctor gasps - partly in surprise at the huge quantity of canisters, and partly in reaction to the smell that billows from the chamber. Mixed in with dry, dusty scents is a thicker, more powerful odour that trickles into Stefan's weary body and loosens the tightness in his muscles and the fatigue coiled around his chest. Stefan takes a dream-like step forward and lets his gaze drift over the containers available to him. So many are filled with nothing more than dirt and clumps of soil, but one stands out, the smell emanating from it drawing the doctor's eyes towards it. Stefan reaches out and grips the canister, lifting it from its shelf and marvelling at how some of his former strength appears to return to permit him to lift the jar. Turning back to his sire, Stefan actually manages to smile and nod his head towards the deeply unpleasant creature in thanks.

"Thank you. I think that this one suits me perfectly."

[Dark Seeker]

Andrei

The young woman takes the stick, her hands shaking. She begins to write.

Steward Lothar. He felt humiliated by you at the dinner. He was furious I assisted you. When we fled, he told me that if I liked the mute so much I could be like him. And he pinned me to the ground and cut out my tongue.

Tears drop from her eyes, but she looks defiant.

Stefan

"Ah, a good choice. Do ensure you keep it near your body at all times when you sleep, or the draining will come back." Mieczyslav speaks as though he is a doctor prescribing a remedy.

"I am glad that you survived, doctor. You possess the strength to do what needs to be done. I am not some vile monster who kills for the pleasure. Well, solely. I believe that each death, each torture session, assists me in discovering more about the mortal form, and our differences as kindred from it.

"We are Tzimicse specifically, so our clan is already more evolved then other kindred. We can shape bone, modify our and others appearances. You may have already felt the urge to. I believe that my research will one day lead us to transcend this state, and the weaknesses it forces onto us."

"Ah, but I probably bore you with the theoretical. For now, focus on following the Earl's orders. He is a useful patron, and so I've little objection to working with him. Heaven knows he provides me with enough useful test subjects." Mieczyslav casts a look to the dead servants, and chuckles.

"Once our business with the Earl is concluded, we will leave this place, and I shall truly recommit to my research. You would be allowed to join me, if you like. I do believe you would discover many wondrous properties of the human condition."

[JonRG]

Luca

"Benghi. No, you're not interrupting. Come. Sit. We could use your thoughts on the erstwhile Isabella and her sire." Luca smiled at Alenka. Let her say what she wants. He could handle it. "Particularly the flirtatiousness with her elder and this newfound hatred for young girls."