Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn -
Gregorius speaks, "I wish to unburden my soul of the terrible deeds I have wrought upon our world. Such a gentle soul and so much pain and suffering I caused..." He begins to weep blood pouring out from his tear ducts.
Durga Syn turns to Vasatanesa who shrugs, "My Clan Mate it seems believes that he is partially responsible for the War of Princes that has raged for over a century here in the west".
Adria chimes in, "How could he? I mean, no offense but he seems kind of... broken".
Vasatanesa responds, "He claims that he was responsible because he drove Michael the Patriarch Mad. The fall of the Patriarch of course has been pointed to as the event that began the slide towards many of the current conflicts if not beginning at least intensifying".
Durga Syn still appears confused, "I am still at a loss for what this has to do with this Conclave?"
Lutz and Antoine begin to laugh hysterically. "Because Narses and his Roman allies are the ones that put Gregor up to it", states Antoine. "On purpose because both groups had a feud with Michael and wished to see him fall", states Lutz. "Or... they planned this chaos so they could step in and create a massive organization to spread their influence across the entire Vampiric world", exclaims Antoine. "But... maybe not, maybe this is a just a happy coincidence for them", retorts Lutz. "Little do they know that someone is coming to BloodFeast... er, well, it would have been a BloodFeast till they were banned, tonight!" finishes Antoine.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
The Streets of Venice to the Masoleum -
As you exit the warren and step into the streets above the chaos of the early evening has not lost its grip on the city. Even as a commoner you are not immune to leers and accosting by the crowds who question which faction you are with.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Outside Narses Elysium –
Veronica, you see walking up behind the group that you just appeared in front of two more men, one of whom is dressed as a Merchant the other some sort of traveler.
Edwarde, Robin shrugs at your question, "Between ineptitude and hypocrisy it's a wonder these Elders still walk among us. Still, raw power is not to be trifled with which is why we must strike at them with our minds and our words, not our fists. One may stake a Vampire and leave him out for the sun but ideas and sun and fire proof and once they take root, cannot be easily eliminated".
Once you near the group, three figures appear to literally materialize from the shadows of the doorway, an older man and two young women one comely the other quite fair. Those that Robin informed you were Ventrue immediately question the newcomers, "Where is Brexiano?"
---
The elderly man speaks, "Lanzo, his whereabouts are his own concern. A gracious guest does not question his Host. Of course, you are no gracious guest so be thankful I am not the Seneschal of my Sire's City.
Momentarily, I shall open the doors of Elysium that we may begin proceedings". The man then turns and nods to the two ladies moving past them before once more vanishing into the darkness from whence he came.
The Ventrue once more turn to one another and speak amongst themselves ignoring both sets of newcomers.
Mistress Fanchon turns to Veronica,
Robin guides Edwarde around the Ventrue and towards Mistress Fanchon, "It seems we both have some news this night Mistress. Tell me, how is Meerlinda these days?"
Mistress returns Robin's question with an icy stare, "I believe that Mistress Meerlinda is quite well Furore, I find it quite brazen that you would seek out and Embrace when so many here believe there is already cause to have your head".
Robin grins, "Does that mean I cannot count on your vote two nights hence?"
Venice by Night- Thursday March 27, 1309
The Blurred Mongoose -
Nicolo shakes his head, "I think this one is quite calculating Signore'. The Germanic tribes from which he is descended usually are".
At that moment the door opens and a hooded figure stumbles in. Nicolo calls out, may I help you.
Cristiano's voice replies, "No, no I am fine, give me a moment..." He staggers across the room and over to a side door. Stefano holds his position.
Venice by Night - Thursday March 27, 1309
Greetings Inn by the Canal –
Your eyes catch a glimpse of Moses moving impossibly fast. No one else spots him, if he is carrying anyone you did not see them.
The crowd begins to disperse as Gunthar charges back down the stairs a murderous look on his face, "Where is he?! Where is that Saracen!?"
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
Baldemar Attack - Greatsword DC 6 - Damage +1
Bravos Soak
Bravos #1 vs. Geoffroi - Rapier DC 6 - Damage .
Bravos #2 vs. Baldemar - Rapier DC 6 - Damage .
The Bravo you strike takes a solid score across the hip but he is made of sterner stuff than the one that Baldemar brought down as he offers back, still your steel easily parries his.
Baldemar meanwhile literally cuts his second opponent in twain the man's torso flying across to strike the alley wall while his legs flop over onto his fallen comrade who cries out in horror.
The man facing you pauses his eyes wide with shock.
Baldemar calmly speaks, "Finish him Geoffroi, we'll not survive a trial in the climate of this city..."
He moves in to coup de grace his second now prone foe...
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Outside Narses Elysium –
As you begin to make your way off of the docks, two new Gondola's swiftly head towards the docks behind you.
The first carries Helene of Clan Toreador and her Childe Victor. The second contains the Gangrel Milov and his Childe Cantor along with the Assamite Lord Bajazet and his Childe Giovanni.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
Anamilism 2 - Charisma + Survival DC 6
Your blade is eaten by the gut of the creature whose appearance drops from an ugly man to a really ugly beast! He stumbles backwards hissing, and circling, "You'll pay for that woman..."
It is clear though that he is wary now, you are no mere meal and he know it.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
La Serenata Notturna – Ranerius Banerius & Michele
" well when I was involved prior to my rebirth he excommunication not only damns the soul more importantly it will effect people's wealth. No longer under the protection of the Pope makes the city a target and to trade with us is anathema. It has been brewing for some time but what winds blew the embers to a roaring fire I do not know.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
La Serenata Notturna – Ranerius Banerius & Michele
" well when I was involved prior to my rebirth he excommunication not only damns the soul more importantly it will effect people's wealth. No longer under the protection of the Pope makes the city a target and to trade with us is anathema. It has been brewing for some time but what winds blew the embers to a roaring fire I do not know.
"Yes," He nods, though he mention of trade being more important than the soul telling, "I suspect that there maybe a backlash against the Doge if this persists for long. I've taken some precautions for this fine place, and hope to keep it a haven for our kind and a center of calm for the citizenry as well. It's in our best interest I think to quell panic among the masses if we can, or at least brace to survive it."
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Outside Narses Elysium –
Feeling that is likely worthwhile to gather a bit of information on the the state of the Toredor, Gangrel, and Assamite clans, Lorenzo chooses to linger a bit.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
Geoffroi takes advantage and presses his attack on his shocked opponent
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
La Serenata Notturna – Ranerius Banerius & Michele
"I would think in the long term that would benefit us more. I am sure the next few days will be telling either way. Thank you for your hospitality.
La Serenata Notturna – Ranerius Banerius & Michele
"I would think in the long term that would benefit us more. I am sure the next few days will be telling either way. Thank you for your hospitality.
"You are most welcome." He says. And contemplates if he will still have time to visit a certain ventrue..
Venice, the city of gondolas
well, that was the wrong thing to say...
Venice by Night- Thursday March 27, 1309
The Blurred Mongoose -
Seeing the figure stumble, Piero moves fluidly from his seat and approaches slowly.
"Are you all right?"
Venice by Night - Thursday March 27, 1309
Greetings Inn by the Canal – Bagrat
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn - Vitaliano da Riva & Luca Marano
Vitaliano clicked his tongue a bit as he tried to grasp the severity of the situation. With both contenders for the leadership of the Malkavian's seat presenting this...madness to the group at large, there would be no reason for anyone to balk their vote to the other side. Still though, what was the end game of this. Was this in part with the finding who is not who they claim to be?
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn -
Luca shifts back slightly, a bit alarmed at the sight of crying blood. He wonders if that's a new facet of this life, but he cannot feel the need to shed tears, so he puts it out of his mind for now.
Wars? So the creatures of the night also have their useless feuds.
"What does that mean for us? We hide until the mobs have finished their work?"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
La Serenata Notturna –
The Elders and Bassanio listen and Bassanio speaks, "It seems Signore' Querini, that one of the hot button points being pressed by your family, is your disappearance. There is strong sentiment that the Doge has had you eliminated and your family is up in arms over it..."
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Outside Narses Elysium –
Veronica, you see walking up behind the group that you just appeared in front of two more men, one of whom is dressed as a Merchant the other some sort of traveler.
Edwarde, Robin shrugs at your question, "Between ineptitude and hypocrisy it's a wonder these Elders still walk among us. Still, raw power is not to be trifled with which is why we must strike at them with our minds and our words, not our fists. One may stake a Vampire and leave him out for the sun but ideas and sun and fire proof and once they take root, cannot be easily eliminated".
Once you near the group, three figures appear to literally materialize from the shadows of the doorway, an older man and two young women one comely the other quite fair. Those that Robin informed you were Ventrue immediately question the newcomers, "Where is Brexiano?"
---
The elderly man speaks, "Lanzo, his whereabouts are his own concern. A gracious guest does not question his Host. Of course, you are no gracious guest so be thankful I am not the Seneschal of my Sire's City.
Momentarily, I shall open the doors of Elysium that we may begin proceedings". The man then turns and nods to the two ladies moving past them before once more vanishing into the darkness from whence he came.
The Ventrue once more turn to one another and speak amongst themselves ignoring both sets of newcomers.
Mistress Fanchon turns to Veronica, ** spoiler omitted **
Robin guides Edwarde around the Ventrue and towards Mistress Fanchon, "It seems we both have some news this night Mistress. Tell me, how is Meerlinda these days?"
Mistress returns Robin's question with an icy stare, "I believe that Mistress Meerlinda is quite well Furore, I find it quite brazen that you would seek out and Embrace when so many here believe there...
Edwarde thinks that it would be wise for him to say nothing at this stage.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Outside Narses Elysium –
Lord Benne follows your instincts for a change and remains on the docks as the Cainite's exit their Gondola's.
Helene and her Childe approach, "Greeting Lord Benne. Time is ticking on us all I simply cannot wait for this voting to be over and the actual governance to begin. Tell me, should I choose Francois or Raphael for my Justicar?"
Cantor pauses as he walks by, "Have the Toreador of your Clan abdicated to you the night before the vote?"
Helene smiles at the Fledgling, "No but I think it is quite clear that of the three of us, I am the most qualified, why should I cast any doubt upon my impending victory?"
'
Lord Bajazet chuckles as he approaches, "I felt the same way two night ago. Now an Autarkis challenges me for my seat. It seems Narses is full of surprises".
Helene regards the Saracen coldly, "Unlike you, I have the favor of the Prince of this City".
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
The Streets of Venice to the Mausoleum -
Your sudden half-disappearance send the crowd into a panic and Mortals begin crying out in terror running to and fro... IN the confusion you manage to escape and fully vanish.
Soon enough you make it to the temporary Haven of the Tremere Radek and his Childe Michael just as they are boarding a Gondola.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
You run the man through with sudden violence as Baldemar finishes his foe.
He clasps you on the back, "Unfortunate but that seems to be the climate we live in these days. The old order is turning on its head".
You both rush up the alleyway and find he Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in sight. Outside of course is yet another massive crowd.
Venice by Night- Thursday March 27, 1309
The Blurred Mongoose -
As you approach Cristiano begs you off, "No, no I am fine Signore' de Luca. Please sit, have a drink, your contact shall be here later in the evening".
He rushes towards the door to his office but stumbles and falls to the floor.
Venice by Night - Thursday March 27, 1309
Greetings Inn by the Canal –
Having done your part, you drift off with the crowd.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Outside Narses Elysium –
Bragging and posturing... Lorenzo thinks, reaching out to his Sire. Our arrangement is still the same as it ever was, correct?
"The Ventrue tonight, Toreador tomorrow. When are we to vote on the other open seats?"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn -
Luca, you watch as Vitaliano's eyes go stark white for a few moments he seems almost as if in a trance. Then he blinks. Still he says nothing, at least not yet, in response to this strange tale.
Antoine shakes his head in response to Luca's statement, "Nonsense, we head to Elysium. This testimony will take place tonight and I'll not miss it!"
Durga Syn looks to you Luca, "He is right young Childe. I must attend Court as I am to tally the votes for the Ventrue this night. However, we'll not approach with any of you. This is a revelation I do not wish myself or these Fledglings to be associated with..."
Vasatanesa speaks, "It shall be done little Grandmother..."
Durga Syn winces at the name, "Durga is fine my dear, I'd not like to be associated with the name of my greatest foe".
Vasatanesa blinks and sputters, "I meant nothing by..."
Durga Syn places a hand on Vasatanesa's forearm, "Trouble yourself not dear, just do not do it again".
Adria blurts out, "Whose your enemy?"
Lutz blurts out, "The Old Crone herself of course! Baba Yaga silly!"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Outside Narses Elysium –
Cantor replies, "Brujah the night after and all the rest on the fourth night".
---
As he speaks, more Gondolas approach, in the darkness it is not clear who is on board them.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn - Vitaliano da Riva & Luca Marano
Vitaliano took in a deep breath, not that one was truly needed as he came out of the small trance. He put his hand to his face as he listened to the speakings of the other others as he steadied himself and he composed his thoughts. He was surprised that he would be the one to uncover the trickster in their midst and with the curse of his own blood at that.
He looked over at Antoine and waved him closer "I believe your ingenious attempt to stir up some entertainment to set off the start of voting has caused a most enlightening vision. I know who is our false entity at court...I need only offer the information to whom you feel might best cause a stir with it or whom we might want a favor from in the future. Tell me, what do you think of giving the honor to the Ex Prince Alexander?" he said trying to be as hushed as possible.
before the gondola
Onfroi after vanishing will double around and change faces looking like someone entirely different before arriving at the gondola.
so good to see you both, I was coming to move forward with our deal Radek.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
La Serenata Notturna – Ranerius & Michele
"Well that is an interesting turn of events. The question is what can I do to quell that?"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
Geoffroi touches Baldemar's arm and puts a finger to his lips. He then points to Sergei. He begins trying to make his way towards the man unnoticed
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
La Serenata Notturna – Ranerius & Michele[/ooc]
The Elders and Bassanio listen and Bassanio speaks, "It seems Signore' Querini, that one of the hot button points being pressed by your family, is your disappearance. There is strong sentiment that the Doge has had you eliminated and your family is up in arms over it..."
"Well that is an interesting turn of events. The question is what can I do to quell that?"
"I so not suppose you can safely return to them without risking your new nature as being known?" He raises a brow, "Of course, I don't know enough details of your personal history to speak beyond the obvious."
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn -
Luca turns to Adria.
"It seems we will be taken with the river's current. How do you suppose we Gangrel should act."
Luca is still trying to form his identity as a Gangrel, and is hoping Adria will have some insight.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn -
Antoine shrugs, "I fear that our false entity will be making his move this night. If you wish to share this information head to Court and do so quickly, perhaps without you with me, they won't be on to you".
He looks around as if to spot any who might be listening in on the both of you.
Durga Syn glares at Lutz and he immediately stops smiling and settles down, her glare is... unsettling. After several moments of awkward silence follow Durga Syn speaks, "To speak of evil is to invite it into your home. Let us do neither".
The tension lifts as Durga begins discussing how Lutz should be the one that should accompany Gregor to Court and how Vasatanesa should travel with herself and the two of you.
As you inch closer to Adria and ask your question Luca she turns to you, "A pebble, I feel more like a child's sail boat being thrown about on the waters, at least a pebble can settle in the silt for a time.
I think maybe we should just stay quiet and observe. We should watch what the two remaining Gangrel do at Court maybe even try and talk to them even though they both seem standoffish..."
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
The Streets of Venice to the Mausoleum -
You call across the canal at the Cainites about to board the Gondola, and Radek taps the boatman and points towards you. A single stroke is all it takes to get across the canal and pick you up from your side.
Michael Santo greets you, "Little crazy out here huh? You hear anything about what happened? I've been cooped up inside all evening getting lessons".
The boatman remains silent and begins to ferry you all through the chaos, divorced form it on the water but witness to it as you pass by...
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
La Serenata Notturna –
Sadir speaks before any of the Toreador can, "There are three solutions I can see. The first, return alive to your family home and interact with your father, assuring him you are alive and well but back only briefly as you must away on business yet again. Second, fake your own death, in a public way and a way that does not inflame the ire of the Mortals further. Third, do nothing, no doubt the problems of the city will grow larger if not resolved and your disappearance will be a mere footnote in the larger context of what has taken place".
Rafael speaks, "Both one and two either eviscerate or can potentially damage the First Tradition. Were I you, I would take the matter up with the Prince".
Violetta speaks, "Court beckons you all and our time is short. However, first since we have you here Lord Sadir I would ask you point blank, do you know where your Sire has gone into hiding or if he is still here? I have been hunting him and his trail ever elusive has gone completely cold".
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice[ - Just Outside of the Basilica –
You manage to sneak to the nearby alleyway without being detected by the crowd shouting and throwing food at the Basilica. As you get closer you see a second crowd jeering at the first supporting the local clergy as loyal. A wild scene to be sure!
As you get close Sergei draws steel on you, "Who are... wait, I know you. From the road the last night into the city yes? Come in man before someone spots you!"
He sheathes his half drawn sword and pulls you into the alley so fast and powerfully it astounds you.
In the alley with him are his retainers, Brice and Wilhelm.
"Now, what are you doing sneaking about on a mad night such as this one?"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn - Vitaliano da Riva & Luca Marano
Vitaliano slips back into the room without saying another word further to his Sire. He bows politely at the company "I am afraid that I must head out early from out talk, I have a few errands to attend to before the council convenes for the evening. I would say that perhaps it would be wise to stay in small groups as opposed to going alone lest perhaps you have alternative means to get there safely." he said simply before he started to walk out of the room and dissipated from view before he even hit the door.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn -
Luca nods.
"Agreed."
"Stop me if you see me doing something stupid." he adds, a short smile on his face.
Luca will follow where he is led, but as mentioned, he will observe and learn.
on a gondola, again?!
Onfroi gets into the boat nodding his thanks saying mobs in the street going this way and that either supporting the Doge or against. Seems the pope excommunicated Venice. I have yet to see the army of the Doge but I cant imagine the businessmen will allow the chaos much longer.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice[ - Just Outside of the Basilica –
You manage to sneak to the nearby alleyway without being detected by the crowd shouting and throwing food at the Basilica. As you get closer you see a second crowd jeering at the first supporting the local clergy as loyal. A wild scene to be sure!
As you get close Sergei draws steel on you, "Who are... wait, I know you. From the road the last night into the city yes? Come in man before someone spots you!"
He sheathes his half drawn sword and pulls you into the alley so fast and powerfully it astounds you.
In the alley with him are his retainers, Brice and Wilhelm.
"Now, what are you doing sneaking about on a mad night such as this one?"
"Sirrah, as a matter of fact, I was trying to find you and your group. The city has gone mad. I am with a fellow named Baldemar, he awaits me out a street back. Can you assist us? We are looking for shelter from the mob, they seem to be crying for foreigners blood"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice – Xing Shi
Xing circles with the creature keeping careful eye on it's actions.
"I did not come to fight just making my way to Elisium (think that's the name of the place). If you wish this to continue then so be it but I'm sure our sires nor the Prince would not appreciate it."
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn -
Adria grin at you Luca as the woman, whose skin is an exotic dusky brown leads the two of you and Durga Syn to the back door of the Inn and into the night.
The powers that this woman has at her disposal are formidable indeed. You are all able to walk through the chaos, keeping to the sides of buildings where streets are crowded or side streets seemingly invisible! None note your passing as if through magic. Even more amazing, you can all see each other still.
Soon enough, the group reaches a Gondola and the woman's amazing powers convert to making you all appear to be different people entirely! The driver invites you all on and you begin a much less harrowing journey on the canals. It seems that those on the streets either ignore or have some great respect for the boatmen and do not attack their vessels or even curse at their passengers.
Durga Syn turns to Vasatanesa, "Have you discovered what I asked of you my dear?"
Vasatanesa nods, "Yes. Despite the surprise of the return of this Gregor who has been in hiding for quite some time, I was able last night to discover what you asked of me".
"Well?", asks the old Crone expectantly.
"Do you wish me to speak so plainly in front of the Fledglings and the boatman?" asks Vasatanesa.
Durga Syn nods affirmatively, "The Boatman has been Dominated by the Kestral. The Fledglings are members of Clan Gangrel, perhaps the only Clan outside of your own that I trust. Odd I know..."
Vasatanesa raises an eyebrow but continues, "No sign. No hint of a sign that she is rising, at least not according to Petrankov".
"Is he sure?" presses Durga.
"As sure as he can be, I released a boon that his own Sire owed to mine in return for the information. She is not or was not the target".
Durga Syn frowns, "If not that her, then what her do you believe Lantia seeks to awaken? I am relieved and at the same time in some ways more fearful..."
Vasatanesa whispers, "Keminitri..."
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
The Streets of Venice to the Mausoleum -
Michael frowns, "I hope it is not effecting my Gondola business. I am surprised it got this far. I really thought they would find a compromise..."
Radek shrugs, "That business is beyond our ability to impact. We must focus on what we can impact. Tell me Onfroi, now that our deal is in place, you will guarantee us your vote and that I get but what I need is to ensure victory. Tell me, do you know Durga Syn or any who know her?"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Alla Vigna Inn into the Streets of Venice -
Even with your powers to hide, the crowds in the streets are so very thick it is difficult to move past them.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice - Just Outside of the Basilica –
Sergei seems surprised, "If I had known that you know Sir Baldemar perhaps I would not have been so dismissive of you at camp.
We're trying to get into the Basilica ourselves, need to inform Claudio as to where I've stashed his belongings. You seem even more stealthy than I or my companions. I'm afraid until these crowds die down, we're all stuck out here waiting.
Is Sir Baldemar near?"
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
The Cainite stops circling and his demeanor changes entirely, "Ah. Oh. Er... I see. I thought you were a Mortal. Names Caligo, what's yours Signora'?"