His sire is an educated man, and knows how to curse in several languages.
"You have no idea. I trust you are in some place safe, and private? my son, I have ever reason to believe a very dark hand has entered the city. The Lakeside Restaurant went up in flames last night, the news has been trained to say it is a gas leak...indeed, I woke early to aid in making sure of it. Garnering favor with a mutual friend . But the the truth is otherwise. they are here. I can smell them."
Was that Biblical Greek?
"Shit." Paolo knew how to swear in a few languages -Father was a good teacher- but one would do for now.
"I'm working on that. The house will keep for now but if I stayed nearby then a neighbor would recognize me and I'd be stuck there all night. I need to attend to my situation. Last night went perfectly -two promising prospects- but I need to keep on top of it; they're expecting me. I have enough equipment with me to manage things until I have time to rebuild." That was going to be tedious. Good thing I always buy three of electronics and store two off-site. Going legit will just have to wait a few more years...and several security upgrades. And a gun. Or ten. Permits should be trivial, a few nights poking around the right databases.
What Paolo really needed to do was set up an alternate identity. It would take time, but he could figure it out. No networked computer was safe from him on a long enough timeline.
"You know what happened with the car, so I'm calling Uber next. I'll stay clear of the restaurant and minimize my exposure. I'll take more precautions as soon as I can." And take care of yourself too, Father. Not that you need me to tell you.
|
Marcus knows he is hopelessly outmanned in a fight, so he will try guile. He will move in a path of where the woman is running and wait in an open door way that has a hidden path to someplace he could lead and lock her until he could get up early enough to finish her. So he will move himself to intercept.
Arthur frowns, "Four dead all slain so sloppily. Quite odd indeed.
It seems our Caitiff creator may have struck once more.
Unfortunately, I do not have a vehicle where we could hide these bodies and this takes precedence over my current lesson I fear. I will wait here to ensure that no Mortals stumble upon the bodies, can you contact your Kin to see if they can arrange for a discreet pick up? Perhaps, after this is resolved we can resume my lesson..."
"Yeah, hold on," Imp looks over to make sure, "they all seem dead, not embraced. that's the only good news. Okay, I'll call the gang on this. Be a bit." He heads off a short distance to do just that.
Arthur will look beyond the shroud to see if the souls of the deceased are still present, a pity he cannot speak with them but perhaps they can communicate with him...
It looks like one of the boys lingers on, his ghost confused and furious
Arthur will try to speak with the boy despite the fact that it has never worked in the past... "Child, help me help you. Who did this, can you describe them..."
He also watches to make sure no one else comes along this scene, if they do, he will activate his Temporsis powers to keep them right along walking.
"You really do seem to have rotten luck, my poor dear" Damien purrs.
"There are a number of places in Perle Perdu that would more suited to a person of tastes obviously far different from mine." he says. Making a point of making eye contact with Holly, he says "Of all the places in Perle Perdu, tell why you chose to come in here?"
[dice=Dominate 2 - Manipulation (Persuasive) + Leadership] vs. Holly's current WP]5d10
Caught in his gaze, she answers, "I'm not completely sure, i heard gossip about how wild this place was, and that got me curious. Some lady talked about it like this place was heaven but wouldn't go into details. When tragedy hit, I thought I'd give this place a try both because I was curious and because I figured others who used to work at Lakeside would be going to the 'regular' places anyway."
"I'm working on that. The house will keep for now but if I stayed nearby then a neighbor would recognize me and I'd be stuck there all night. I need to attend to my situation. Last night went perfectly -two promising prospects- but I need to keep on top of it; they're expecting me. I have enough equipment with me to manage things until I have time to rebuild." That was going to be tedious. Good thing I always buy three of electronics and store two off-site. Going legit will just have to wait a few more years...and several security upgrades. And a gun. Or ten. Permits should be trivial, a few nights poking around the right databases.
"Return to these two prospects, the bond will still be incomplete, but every lacing strengthens your power of them. Perhaps you may even use on of their homes as a haven after the third night."
"You know what happened with the car, so I'm calling Uber next. I'll stay clear of the restaurant and minimize my exposure. I'll take more precautions as soon as I can." And take care of yourself too, Father. Not that you need me to tell you.
"Indeed, I would wish you safety, my son, but if the Prince reacts to this like I think, she will insist on our aid in dealing with the threat of those who attacked the restaurant. Who, I wonder, would know them better. If it should come that you shall be drafted for service , you will earn us both a great chance for advancement, but at risk. I have a chance for a seat at the table, equal to Northcliff or Vance. Think of what that means for our blood, eh?"
Marcus knows he is hopelessly outmanned in a fight, so he will try guile. He will move in a path of where the woman is running and wait in an open door way that has a hidden path to someplace he could lead and lock her until he could get up early enough to finish her. So he will move himself to intercept.
Arthur will try to speak with the boy despite the fact that it has never worked in the past... "Child, help me help you. Who did this, can you describe them..."
He also watches to make sure no one else comes along this scene, if they do, he will activate his Temporsis powers to keep them right along walking.
Dazed and angry and confused, the boy ghost glares for a moment, then it seems to sink in what is being asked of it. Beyond the shroud his lips move, Arthur can't make them out exactly. Finally the boy points to him, then makes a 'fangy' gesture with hans. He pauses, makes a cross like symbol with his hands, and then mimes breaking it up.
Dazed and angry and confused, the boy ghost glares for a moment, then it seems to sink in what is being asked of it. Beyond the shroud his lips move, Arthur can't make them out exactly. Finally the boy points to him, then makes a 'fangy' gesture with hans. He pauses, makes a cross like symbol with his hands, and then mimes breaking it up.
"I didn't? I'm so sorry," He's aghast, and looks at his phone, "Crap. I have it as a draft and forgot to press it forward. I'm so sorry." He looks distressed at his failure.
"Hum, don't worry about it, I figured you went to sleep already, because of work - I just didn't want you to wait up for me!", Alyson tries to disperse his distress. He was her champion and hero, after all.
Changing the topic, she points at the headphonse:"What do you think? Not my usual style, but Vivienne wanted me to try it..."After some more small-talk with Sam, Alyson will quickly step into the shower, get dressed, and be off to work on her Scooter.
Caught in his gaze, she answers, "I'm not completely sure, i heard gossip about how wild this place was, and that got me curious. Some lady talked about it like this place was heaven but wouldn't go into details. When tragedy hit, I thought I'd give this place a try both because I was curious and because I figured others who used to work at Lakeside would be going to the 'regular' places anyway."
"Who told you this place was heaven?" Damien asks with a half-smile. "The name itself should tell you it's not...the Nephilim were never welcome there."
Turning to Chandler, Damien asks "What do you think? Could we use another server up front?", seemingly willing to give poor Holly a chance. Before Chandler can respond he turns back to Holly, "If this is to work out at all, we must do something about your style of dress. To say that it does not fit in with the style of this club would be a gross understatement."
Dazed and angry and confused, the boy ghost glares for a moment, then it seems to sink in what is being asked of it. Beyond the shroud his lips move, Arthur can't make them out exactly. Finally the boy points to him, then makes a 'fangy' gesture with hans. He pauses, makes a cross like symbol with his hands, and then mimes breaking it up.
Arthur nods, "I fear I cannot understand you boy but I promise this, I will make sure that those who so wantonly slaughtered you and yours get what is coming to them". His lack of passion would make the statement seem perhaps hollow but Arthur means every word that he says. There is indeed a reason why he left the False Hand after the True Hand fell and this was the main reason, the slaughter of innocents.
That a Kindred would Embrace and leave their Fledging to do such a thing was both stupid and horrific. If Arthur did not know any better, he would think the Sabbat were here now but the Imp said nothing about it and certainly the Nosferatu would know if that did happen!
Arthur refocuses his attention on the area around him looking for the living to keep them away from the scene until the Imp's return.
"Hum, don't worry about it, I figured you went to sleep already, because of work - I just didn't want you to wait up for me!", Alyson tries to disperse his distress. He was her champion and hero, after all.
Changing the topic, she points at the headphonse:"What do you think? Not my usual style, but Vivienne wanted me to try it..."
He looks relieved as she tells him its okay, then thinks, "Well, it's not your best or my personal favorite, but its really really good, and I think the fact that you got that good on a stretch out of nowwhere like that outside of your usual wheel house makes it that much more impressive. I know others who will go crazy for it. Maybe you should try a few other twists or takes your not normally into and put it out like a sampler medley of alternative you? See how it flies? I think this shows a growing confidence."
After some more small-talk with Sam, Alyson will quickly step into the shower, get dressed, and be off to work on her Scooter.
Sounds of police sirens abound, like tonight is really busy for them.
But nothing stops her from getting to work. She almost immediately notices Charlene who gives her a look of intense, well, curiosity?
Using his superior knowledge of the campus, Marcus arranges an open door for her, a place to 'escape' for her.
She rushes in one way, then another in the building the collage uses for storage of supplies for sports and the like ,then... she finds an 'unlocked door' and goes in. And he slips behind her and locks her in.
"What?" She turns, "Hey? Let me out! They're coming!"
"Who told you this place was heaven?" Damien asks with a half-smile. "The name itself should tell you it's not...the Nephilim were never welcome there."
"Cassi..cassie something? She wore a lot of black and... well, that doesn't narrow it down, does it?" However he realizes she's probably talking about Cassiopeia Crow, who would not say why it was heaven, but as she enjoyed the feeding, might not hestitate to admit it was heavenly in vague terms.
Turning to Chandler, Damien asks "What do you think? Could we use another server up front?", seemingly willing to give poor Holly a chance. Before Chandler can respond he turns back to Holly, "If this is to work out at all, we must do something about your style of dress. To say that it does not fit in with the style of this club would be a gross understatement."
Chandler gives a thumbs up and a nod.
And Holly looks down at herself "So what's the dress code like here, lots of black or leather or..." Only a light blush, "I'll wear it. Got to cover more than what I wear at the beach so no reason to be embarrassed."
Lydia comes on in and appraises the situation quietly.
Arthur nods, "I fear I cannot understand you boy but I promise this, I will make sure that those who so wantonly slaughtered you and yours get what is coming to them". His lack of passion would make the statement seem perhaps hollow but Arthur means every word that he says. There is indeed a reason why he left the False Hand after the True Hand fell and this was the main reason, the slaughter of innocents. [/B]
The ghost looks sad, but nods. Then twists his head and steps deeper into.. where in the shadowlands? Who can tell, the ghost is gone from sight now.
That a Kindred would Embrace and leave their Fledging to do such a thing was both stupid and horrific. If Arthur did not know any better, he would think the Sabbat were here now but the Imp said nothing about it and certainly the Nosferatu would know if that did happen!Arthur refocuses his attention on the area around him looking for the living to keep them away from the scene until the Imp's return.
A scrawny guy jogs past, trying to get in shape but doesn't seem to notice.
A pair of young lovers walk by, getting a bit too close, as they hold hands.
And a homeless guy appears to be panhandling nearby and moving around now and then.
As the jogger stays away Arthur does not bother to utilize any powers upon him, after all, the use of power should be subtle, never vulgar.
The couple though must be dealt with as must the pan handler.
The Trujah concentrates on the man and woman first and then the pan handler that their activities recur and they notice nothing but what they are currently doing at the moment and continue to do so...
---
The couple though must be dealt with as must the pan handler.
The Trujah concentrates on the man and woman first and then the pan handler that their activities recur and they notice nothing but what they are currently doing at the moment and continue to do so...
While never one to be vulgar in the use of his power, Arthur wields it skillfully keeping the mortals looping inwardly so that theyd' not notice if they got run over by a bus.
Another group of mortals shows up, garbage men?
A voice whispers next to him, "Easy, they belong to us. Ghouls."
It would appear the nosferatu control the local sanitation engineers.
Good to note, good to know.
Imp frowns, "Normally I've had returned with one Clan member, but this isn't just one incident. The prims and elders are earning their keep on this one. We got more than one vampire rampaging."
"Hmmm. Well I am glad we could clear that up so quickly. Before we begin my lesson once more, an inquiry, do you happen to have the ability to contact the Sheriff with your telly?"
Closing the doors behind him quickly so those after this one might pass he moves to a second story window so he might see who is chasing her figuring if she isnt smart enough to shush then oh well.
She starts to thrash about in a panic, the fear of the beat that knows it's hunted!
The figure coming after is a palelumbering confused man in a chief's hat and an apron that says 'Lakeside'. He carries a kitchen knife and both it and his clothes are stained with fresh blood and dried dirt.
"I'm not doing this," He seems to be muttering to himself, "It's the voices, her outside voice, his inside voice, making me..." He looks about and hears the panic.
He ambles about, then isntead sees a male student leaving the library. Said student sees him and said kine's eyes widen with a 'W-T-F?' look.
the crazed vampire chief looks him in the eyes, "Rats in the kitchen! We'll fail a health inspection!"
The young man looks around then blinks and drops his books, "GEEZ, they won't get off, they wont' get off of me, they're biting!" Even though nothing is there!
the chief nods, "Hold still, I'll get them..." He ambles towards the student with his knife ready.
Marcus is pretty sure the Cook vampire does not notice him yet.
"Hmmm. Well I am glad we could clear that up so quickly. Before we begin my lesson once more, an inquiry, do you happen to have the ability to contact the Sheriff with your telly?"
"wow, you are not in on the modern much, yeah I got a telephone, but I'm pretty sure the Sheriff is already moving her all over town. Unless you got something original to say beyond 'we got trouble' I don't think it would be wise to bother her now. Up to you though." Imp says, "And I can teach you if you want, but if run into more than one of these trouble makers we could be in deep crapola."
"From Fledgling Vampires? Doubtful.
I'll make that quick call then let's continue".
"Sheriff, Arthur Clark. I apologize for disturbing you but the Imp and I just found a significant breach in the Silence and cleaned it up.
Initially I thought it may be our Caitiff creator but it seems there are more of these "incidents" tell me was our dear departed Hank found because of sloppy feeding or for another reason? Was he covered in a significant amount of dirt as if buried?
I'VE a suspicion which may aid you else I'd not waste your time like this I assure you"
"From Fledgling Vampires? Doubtful.
I'll make that quick call then let's continue".
"Yeah right, but if they zerg us, I get to say I told you so before we die." Still, Imp seems reassured somewhat
The call goes through and "Now is not a good time, Imp."
"Sheriff, Arthur Carter. I apologize for disturbing you but the Imp and I just found a significant breach in the Silence and cleaned it up.
"Mr. Carter, The nosferatu have already passed onto me, along with many side remarks about how if they had been allowed to embrace more their clan would be able to have more eyes to guard from this. I informed them to take that complaint up wit the Prince"[/B] The gangrel sighs, "But go on if you must."
Initially I thought it may be our Caitiff creator but it seems there are more of these "incidents" tell me was our dear departed Hank found because of sloppy feeding or for another reason? Was he covered in a significant amount of dirt as if buried?I'VE a suspicion which may aid you else I'd not waste your time like this I assure you"[/b]
"I suspect you and a certain Lasombra Antitribu have the same suppositions It does sound like tactics that the Sabbat are reported to use, doesn't it?"
He can hear a gunshot sound over the phone, but the sheriff is still on the line.
"Return to these two prospects, the bond will still be incomplete, but every lacing strengthens your power of them. Perhaps you may even use on of their homes as a haven after the third night."
"That's a good idea," Paolo said. As the subdivision filled, he'd run out of better options.
"Indeed, I would wish you safety, my son, but if the Prince reacts to this like I think, she will insist on our aid in dealing with the threat of those who attacked the restaurant. Who, I wonder, would know them better. If it should come that you shall be drafted for service , you will earn us both a great chance for advancement, but at risk. I have a chance for a seat at the table, equal to Northcliff or Vance. Think of what that means for our blood, eh?"
That would be significant. Very significant. The prestation could be tremendous. Paolo wanted a piece of that...and to be known as the kindred who handled things well.
"That would be something," Paolo said, considering his next words very carefully. "I'm at her, and your, service if that's so. This is a problem for all of us. Community solutions to community ills." Paolo wanted in, badly, but not until he managed his masquerade problem if it could be helped.
"That's a good idea," Paolo said. As the subdivision filled, he'd run out of better options.
"Do not worry, your work upon the neighborhood is a worthy investment still, quite the coup really." He says, "And you will have the damage to your house finished soon. If you like. The haven with the above mentioned would last only if you wanted it too."
"That would be something," Paolo said, considering his next words very carefully. "I'm at her, and your, service if that's so. This is a problem for all of us. Community solutions to community ills." Paolo wanted in, badly, but not until he managed his masquerade problem if it could be helped.
"I can hear your voice tinged with ambition. Good. Shadows stretch, they reach. I will inform her of our aid. And I will remember what a dutiful son you have been to me as I ascend, rest assured. If there is nothing else, I have already another call to wipe memory."
"Do not worry, your work upon the neighborhood is a worthy investment still, quite the coup really." He says, "And you will have the damage to your house finished soon. If you like. The haven with the above mentioned would last only if you wanted it too."
"That's true," Paolo said. He'd like to talk to Father all night, being as rattled as he was, but they both had things to do and he was his own kindred now.
Would Paolo really go back? His house was known now, at least to some. But with the right security upgrades, Betty's continued service -he should see about buying that house so it remained empty, but that would be costly-, a daytime guard or two... Very possible.
"I can hear your voice tinged with ambition. Good. Shadows stretch, they reach. I will inform her of our aid. And I will remember what a dutiful son you have been to me as I ascend, rest assured. If there is nothing else, I have already another call to wipe memory."
"That's all. Thank you, Father." Paolo made sure he wouldn't cut his sire off, then ended the call.
An Uber to Starbucks, then a second to Daphne's after he added vitae to the coffee. A quick stop and he could get on with the night. For the third cup, he carefully, discretely emptied it into a trash can. Thank you, I'm a little rattled. Drank my fill before I got here.
"Cassi..cassie something? She wore a lot of black and... well, that doesn't narrow it down, does it?" However he realizes she's probably talking about Cassiopeia Crow, who would not say why it was heaven, but as she enjoyed the feeding, might not hestitate to admit it was heavenly in vague terms.
"Ahh, Cassiopeia. Yes, she is a regular around here." Glancing briefly at the clock on the wall. "I wouldn't be a bit surprised to see her waltzing in any moment now."
Chandler gives a thumbs up and a nod.
And Holly looks down at herself "So what's the dress code like here, lots of black or leather or..." Only a light blush, "I'll wear it. Got to cover more than what I wear at the beach so no reason to be embarrassed."
Lydia comes on in and appraises the situation quietly.
"Well Holly, it seems to be your lucky day. Chandler is the assistant manager and it seems he believes we could use a bit of extra help." Smiling and nodding toward Lydia, he tells Holly, "That's Lydia. I may own the place but in this part of the club, she calls the shots. I am sure she'd be happy to give you a few pointers on appropriate fashion choices for being gainfully employed here. Welcome aboard."
The call goes through and "Now is not a good time, Imp.
Mr. Carter, The nosferatu have already passed onto me, along with many side remarks about how if they had been allowed to embrace more their clan would be able to have more eyes to guard from this. I informed them to take that complaint up wit the Prince" The gangrel sighs, "But go on if you must."
I suspect you and a certain Lasombra Antitribu have the same suppositions It does sound like tactics that the Sabbat are reported to use, doesn't it?"[/B]
He can hear a gunshot sound over the phone, but the sheriff is still on the line.
"Indeed, I am afraid that it does Sheriff. Your resignation only confirms my suspicions. Once I realized this was not an isolated incident I felt it best to call you.
My advice, do not focus on these Fledglings. They are a distraction, a tactic for diverting your attention away from the real threat, whatever pack has decided to come here.
They must be located and dealt with and your numbers must be at least five in strength. This is something that Anacillae or Elders should deal with directly. Neonates can handle these shovelheads. The Imp and I will finish what must be finished here, should you have need of us, do not hesitate to call back".
Arthur hangs up, after all, he has business to attend to!
He turns to the Imp, "Well, it seems that the Sheriff has things well in hand, don't worry by the time we arrive wherever he decides to send us, we will miss the action rest assured. In the meantime, it is not wise to travel alone until this threat is dealt with. Once we complete my training I shall accompany you to the Web and then I will take my leave.
Let us continue".
"That's all. Thank you, Father." Paolo made sure he wouldn't cut his sire off, then ended the call.
Thoughts full of the paths before them, the risks and possible rewards, Paolo moves on.
An Uber to Starbucks, then a second to Daphne's after he added vitae to the coffee. A quick stop and he could get on with the night. For the third cup, he carefully, discretely emptied it into a trash can. Thank you, I'm a little rattled. Drank my fill before I got here.
Reciting his mantra to try in truth later, he soon makes his way towards Daphne's home, and is , rather pleased. It's a secure spot with a lot of trees to provide shade yet none of the trees violate access. A bit of green and shadow right in the city.
He can hear them, "I guess I'just weirded out, Contessa, you seem to really be rolling with this. I don't mean callously, but, ever since last night I can't get Paolo out of my head, and you say the same but ... you just lost your fiance. That doesn't seem odd to you?"
"Daphne, the man tried to help the man I love, how can I not help but admire him?"
"I supppoose," Daphne admits.
then the motion sensor light kicks on as he approaches closer and the voices stop.
Assuming he knocks on the door or announces himself
Daphne opens the door, 'More coffee? I hope you have a discount for membership or something" And he's invited in.
Contessa smiles to see him. Perhaps it is odd she's warmed to him so quickly, but sometimes even a single drop can provoke strong feelings. As he predicted, "Why didn't you bring a drink for yourself?"
"Ahh, Cassiopeia. Yes, she is a regular around here." Glancing briefly at the clock on the wall. "I wouldn't be a bit surprised to see her waltzing in any moment now."
While this would be the perfect time for her to do that, instead the crowds pick up just a bit but no show on her.
"Cassiopeia, yes that was it, thank you."
"Well Holly, it seems to be your lucky day. Chandler is the assistant manager and it seems he believes we could use a bit of extra help." Smiling and nodding toward Lydia, he tells Holly, "That's Lydia. I may own the place but in this part of the club, she calls the shots. I am sure she'd be happy to give you a few pointers on appropriate fashion choices for being gainfully employed here. Welcome aboard."
Lydia tilts her head, "Definitely sounds like my cue," She strides down.
Holly looks SO relieved, "I have the job? Oh thank goodness, in today's economy I was worried I'd..." She stiffens a bit as she realizes Lydia is circling her.
"I would love to be as tall as you are," Lydia admits, "And she's got a nice up there up there. Tips will not be a problem."
Holly blushes, "Thank you, I think. Are you really going to circle me while staring like that?"
"Like what?" Lydia raises a delicate brow.
"Like a vampire from a movie." Holly says.
Lydia laughs, then "Relax farm girl, I'm not making a move on you, just seeing what will fit you best. Maximize tips and have you fitting in while still being distinct. Calculated conformity to 'ooh she's unique' ratio is part of the game"
Holly relaxes, "Well, I am game for anything."
"Would but it were true," Chandler whispers lustily but quietly. Well, maybe not quietly enough as Lydia shoots him a warning look. He gives an apologetic shrug.
A very shaken looking guy approaches Chandler, he doesn't look dressed for this place either, "You serve hard drinks here?" The man looks to be in his mid thirties.
"Sure do," Chandler says, "You look like it's a bourbon night. Sound good?"
"Yeah," The guy says, "Anything to make me forget what I think I saw."
Chandler raises a brow, "And what's that?"
"I saw a woman get shot in the head. And she kept going. I swear to god, I saw her keep going."
Chandler raises a brow and glances towards the bouncers, tempted to call them.
"Indeed, I am afraid that it does Sheriff. Your resignation only confirms my suspicions. Once I realized this was not an isolated incident I felt it best to call you.
My advice, do not focus on these Fledglings. They are a distraction, a tactic for diverting your attention away from the real threat, whatever pack has decided to come here.
They must be located and dealt with and your numbers must be at least five in strength. This is something that Anacillae or Elders should deal with directly. Neonates can handle these shovelheads. The Imp and I will finish what must be finished here, should you have need of us, do not hesitate to call back".
"Clumsy these 'shovelheads maybe' but I am afraid I have doubts as to how well neonates can deal with them. If you had the Anarch's help there would be no trouble. But it would appear the Anarchs have vanished for the night. Most of your peers seem to be less eager for battle than you, Mr. Carter. I will pass it onto the Prince, but I do not know. It maybe that some of these shovelheads will still be about by the time the night is done, and if they should live to the next night, they will endanger the masquerade again. For now, we are forced to play Clean up and cover up. It may not be practical, but it is what the masquerade requires. The traditions must come first. But I can tell you the Prince is going to take Drastic steps. All Sabbat are on a blood hunt and... that may mean more than it used to."
Arthur hangs up, after all, he has business to attend to!He turns to the Imp, "Well, it seems that the Sheriff has things well in hand, don't worry by the time we arrive wherever he decides to send us, we will miss the action rest assured. In the meantime, it is not wise to travel alone until this threat is dealt with. Once we complete my training I shall accompany you to the Web and then I will take my leave.
Let us continue".
"You got it" The Imp says, "Hell of a night already. Now, where was I? Oh yeah, relaxing with focus...fun trick."
For the next hour or so, training will go on, and while nothing is instant, Arthur does get some useful tips on how to sort through sounds and notice the nuance of color and illumnation
"Well Imp to battle or to your Web?" Arthur hands him on of his new stakes, "Either way in case you need it".
Arthur considered heading to meet with the Ventrue Primogen this night but as that idea is now defunct he will either:
1. Tour the park with the Imp in search of a shovel head, or
2. Head to his relatives home to continue to build trust with them and warn them to be careful with these "murderers" on the loose!
Lydia tilts her head, "Definitely sounds like my cue," She strides down.
Holly looks SO relieved, "I have the job? Oh thank goodness, in today's economy I was worried I'd..." She stiffens a bit as she realizes Lydia is circling her.
"I would love to be as tall as you are," Lydia admits, "And she's got a nice up there up there. Tips will not be a problem."
Holly blushes, "Thank you, I think. Are you really going to circle me while staring like that?"
"Like what?" Lydia raises a delicate brow.
"Like a vampire from a movie." Holly says.
Lydia laughs, then "Relax farm girl, I'm not making a move on you, just seeing what will fit you best. Maximize tips and have you fitting in while still being distinct. Calculated conformity to 'ooh she's unique' ratio is part of the game"
Damien struggles to not let out a laugh himself. Oh my poor, dear Holly, if only you knew how close to the truth you are... the Kiasyd thinks to himself.
Holly relaxes, "Well, I am game for anything."
"Would but it were true," Chandler whispers lustily but quietly. Well, maybe not quietly enough as Lydia shoots him a warning look. He gives an apologetic shrug.
A very shaken looking guy approaches Chandler, he doesn't look dressed for this place either, "You serve hard drinks here?" The man looks to be in his mid thirties.
"Sure do," Chandler says, "You look like it's a bourbon night. Sound good?"
"Yeah," The guy says, "Anything to make me forget what I think I saw."
Chandler raises a brow, "And what's that?"
"I saw a woman get shot in the head. And she kept going. I swear to god, I saw her keep going."
Chandler raises a brow and glances towards the bouncers, tempted to call them.
Hearing the beginnings of the man's fantastical story, Damien leaves Lydia to deal with Holly and approaches the man, waving off the bouncers as he approaches.
"That drink and the next are on the house, Chandler." Damien says approaching the disturbed man.
"You saw a woman get shot in the head and keep going. Where and when was this? What was going on that you were in a position to see someone shot?" Damien asks, trying to gather more information before jumping to any conclusions.
Marcus will go and get the flare gun and grab as many flares as he can carry and hurry back to his perch loading the gun as he goes. He will then quickly open the window, aim the flare gun and fire into the chef with the white phosphorous.
Pumping one blood into dex
Reload!
Panic?
Marcus chucks a flare into the chest and lower neck area of the mad chief!
For a moment he screams in panic as the natural fear of fire threatens to engulf him then as he smacks and pats and grunts, sizzling, he seems to grow quite calm, "If that's how you want to play it , sir. Kill or be killed. Eat or be eaten that is IS nature's way." His voice sounds different. And the burned Malk races towards the building, weaving and trying to avoid the next shot.
"Well Imp to battle or to your Web?" Arthur hands him on of his new stakes, "Either way in case you need it".
"Nothing like a little insurance," Imp takes it, "Thanks. I'll be honest with you, I'm a better set of eyes than I am a fighter. Not that I fight fair." A mutter "Never thought I'd wish they embraced more Brujah in this town. Regular type I mean. They make good meatshields. We can snoop around , see if we can find them, but if I see more than two I am running as fast as my short but sturdy legs can carry me."
1. Tour the park with the Imp in search of a shovel head, or
2. Head to his relatives home to continue to build trust with them and warn them to be careful with these "murderers" on the loose!
A subconscious compromise is reached, as the two go looking for shovelheads, but also wander closer and closer to the area the Carters livee into to do so.
Damien struggles to not let out a laugh himself. Oh my poor, dear Holly, if only you knew how close to the truth you are... the Kiasyd thinks to himself.
He can tell right away Lydia's going to enjoy Holly, if only for the fun of poking light fun at her, but Holly seems tough and secure enough to roll with it and Lydai will look after her.
Then the guy wanting to get bombed comes in.
Hearing the beginnings of the man's fantastical story, Damien leaves Lydia to deal with Holly and approaches the man, waving off the bouncers as he approaches.
The bouncers nod and resume their usual positions and focus. They know their jobs and one rule is you don't escalate a situation unless you have to.
"That drink and the next are on the house, Chandler." Damien says approaching the disturbed man.
Chandler nods, "You got it, boss."
"You saw a woman get shot in the head and keep going. Where and when was this? What was going on that you were in a position to see someone shot?" Damien asks, trying to gather more information before jumping to any conclusions.
"on the outer skirts of New Marseilles," the guy takes the the first bourbon like it's a link to sanity, and does not seem shy about it, "When? I...what time is it? I think I've been in a daze. Less than an hour ago, more than ten minutes. Two African American women, identical, they were pretty but also a mess, nice clothes all torn and dirty, they looked like they'd been through an Earth quake, right? One of them sees this window display, jewelry. I guess she liked it, because she started scratching the glass. Her..sister? She punched the glass and they started to take it. Just like that!A security guuard came out, told them to put it down, and one of them HISSED at him! He freaked, shot her square in the the head! I mean, blood came out of her head so I know it hit, and she was ontop of him and throwing him against a wall and... the other looked at me, like I was NOTHING to her and... god help me, I panicked."
"Understood Imp stay hidden but near me as we walk about, remember there is no such thing as a fair fight. Your eyes are better than mine let's put that to the test".
Arthur summons blood to give him the strength he needs to fight .
Dexterity + Stealth
Perception + Alertness
"Understood Imp stay hidden but near me as we walk about, remember there is no such thing as a fair fight. Your eyes are better than mine let's put that to the test".
At the very corner of the street where the Carters live, Arthur finds two figures. One is a man in his early to mid twenties, wearing a nice suit, like one might wear to a fancy restaurant, but it is tattered, dirty, and torn.
The other is a lovely women, age 22 in what must once have been a more modest dress, but it has less dirt on it, as if some care was taken to remove what could be removed, and strategically torn to show more leg, abit of cleavage. As he's dead and not even 'humane' (or at least not that path), this most likely does not interest Arthur at all save in a clinical recognition of how one might use their appearance to try to hunt.
But he knows this woman, even though he's never met her. She's paler than she was in her pictures, and, as mentioned, a bit dirtier, but yes... this is Rachel Carter! The daughter that wasn't there that night because she was out with her Fiance.
She moves with a sway, talking to her partner, "Loa Joe says humans are fun to play with. Who better to play with than family, right Mike?" She says, "I feel thirsty, but so strong."
Micheal, the Kindred in the suit seems less' there' but nods.
Then, Micheal turns, "We're..being followed."
Rachel Carter was do distracted she didn't even realize, her eyes turn serpentine and she looks about, "Oh?"
The bouncers nod and resume their usual positions and focus. They know their jobs and one rule is you don't escalate a situation unless you have to.
"That drink and the next are on the house, Chandler." Damien says approaching the disturbed man.Chandler nods, "You got it, boss."
"on the outer skirts of New Marseilles," the guy takes the the first bourbon like it's a link to sanity, and does not seem shy about it, "When? I...what time is it? I think I've been in a daze. Less than an hour ago, more than ten minutes. Two African American women, identical, they were pretty but also a mess, nice clothes all torn and dirty, they looked like they'd been through an Earth quake, right? One of them sees this window display, jewelry. I guess she liked it, because she started scratching the glass. Her..sister? She punched the glass and they started to take it. Just like that!A security guuard came out, told them to put it down, and one of them HISSED at him! He freaked, shot her square in the the head! I mean, blood came out of her head so I know it hit, and she was ontop of him and throwing him against a wall and... the other looked at me, like I was NOTHING to her and... god help me, I panicked."
Damien calmly says, "I believe you. You are safe here, try and calm yourself and perhaps have any further drinks at a more leisurely pace." Looking to the bouncers and back to Chandler, "For his own safety, make sure he stays here for now. I am going to contact someone who can help."
Leaving the man in the hands of his employees, Damien rushes back up to his haven on the third floor.
Damien calmly says, "I believe you. You are safe here, try and calm yourself and perhaps have any further drinks at a more leisurely pace." Looking to the bouncers and back to Chandler, "For his own safety, make sure he stays here for now. I am going to contact someone who can help."
Chandler nods, "I'll look after him," The bouncers nod as well. Chandler's a good fellow. He'll pace the man properly on any further drinks even as the bouncers help encourage the guy to stay.
Leaving the man in the hands of his employees, Damien rushes back up to his haven on the third floor.
"Mr. Talbot, this had best be important" the sheriff sounds testy on the other line, and ... was that the twhunk of metal hitting a skull?
Sheriff Alicia Hunter appears to be having a very busy night.
"Mr. Talbot, this had best be important" the sheriff sounds testy on the other line, and ... was that the twhunk of metal hitting a skull?
Sheriff Alicia Hunter appears to be having a very busy night.
"I believe it is Sheriff Hunter, lest I would not bother you. A rather distressed mortal has recently arrived in my club, making mention of two women who looked rather disheveled, perhaps as if they had been through an earthquake according to the source. The witness claimed that One of the pair sees this window display, and started scratching the glass. The other punched the glass and they started to take what ever was on display. Apparently a security guard came out to put an end to the disturbance and one of them hissed at the guard. The guard panicked, shot her in the head. The part where our kind come in is that the woman who had been shot, rather than dropping to ground proceed to toss the guard against a wall. Sounds very much like a potential masquerade breach to me."
Damien pauses for any reaction before adding, "I still have the mortal here in my club if you would like to question him."
Daphne's home might have its uses too. Sounds like I don't need to worry too much about Contessa. Might be worth a lighter touch. Paolo knocked politely, blinking in the security lights.
"Drank it before I got here," Paolo said, smiling nervously and with a slight haggard look.
He handed over the coffees, Daphne's first, with a slight air of formality. "Your drink, madame."
"And yours, madame," he handed the other one to Contessa. "I'm really sorry, but I can't stay long tonight. There's a problem at home have to see about. Nothing to worry yourselves over. I couldn't just vanish on you and I did promise coffee."
"Are you both holding up?" Paolo asked gently, mostly to Contessa.
"I believe it is Sheriff Hunter, lest I would not bother you. A rather distressed mortal has recently arrived in my club, making mention of two women who looked rather disheveled, perhaps as if they had been through an earthquake according to the source. The witness claimed that One of the pair sees this window display, and started scratching the glass. The other punched the glass and they started to take what ever was on display. Apparently a security guard came out to put an end to the disturbance and one of them hissed at the guard. The guard panicked, shot her in the head. The part where our kind come in is that the woman who had been shot, rather than dropping to ground proceed to toss the guard against a wall. Sounds very much like a potential masquerade breach to me."
Damien pauses for any reaction before adding, "I still have the mortal here in my club if you would like to question him."
"You were right to call me, Mr. Talbot. I enjoy a good hunt, but this is like a tigress being required to track down mice in a field full of holes. you may have just made some of that tracking easier, and were right to let me know of this man's danger to the masquerade. Hold him there. Either I or someone else will be there as soon as possible. I don't suppose you have progressed far enough where you can wipe memory?"