Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Titian Inn -
"There is no time to meet with him this night. Our vote will come mere hours from now.
I shall offer to him what I originally offered to him, the position of Justicar. That in addition to deflecting these baseless accusations should be more than enough to convince him to support my claim. You must act quickly though. Do not think that Helene will offer either me or your Sire that coveted position. If she wins, the Toreador power center will remain in France with the Courts of Love.
A Court that will use their power to weaken your Sire further and he'd need more time than you think to recover from the damage done to him in Salons where to speak his name holds no threat of retaliation. However, the position of Justicar will make even the loosest tongued Harpy think twice of speaking ill of him were that his title".
He has tried to exude some confidence but also is appreciative, "I am inclined to agree. In truth, I do agree with many of your views. We cannot be too blatant among the living. My sire is clever, and you have seen that for you yourself. He will make a fine Justicar. If I may make one last request? There is such a chance for artistry here in this new Sect. I hope you will promote cooperation with the other clans and toreador. We can share so much with them, and through interaction we can find new outlets for arts. Dirges crafted and new crypts of sad beauty along side the Cappadocians, artistry, Art that depicts the great philosophers the Brujah admire, the art of the cultures where other Clans are stronger, we can bring that to Europe and take what is best in it to elevate Art, and give much in return. With my sire, I was sure of the cooperation, I hope you believe much the same. Whatever they think of my sire,or me, some of those I have spoken to see what I am trying to do overall. If you can help in that sharing and shoring up between Clans that I dream of, you will find me quite willing to aid you as I have aided Francois after all this is done in the interest of harmony. I hope to advance myself, of course, I would be lying to say otherwise, yes? But beauty, music, art, these things have such an opportunity t grow now. We must not squander it. I will do as you ask in this and trust in your honor, sir. May our muses bloom in these interesting times."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
The Undercity -
The voice responds, "I cannot have you meet with him when I don;t know where he is..."
le Fanu seems surprised by the response, "Fine then, tell him I wish to speak with him at Elysium".
The bolthole closes.
He steps outside back under the bridge and turns to you, "Unusual. I was supposed to meet with him to firm support last night. Now this is the second night in a row he has rebuffed me. He must have changed his mind to vote for Lutz! The bastard..." You can see he is seething.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Venetian Back Alleys -
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
At the doorway to Elysium -
Petradon nods at his Childe's response. He looks thoughtfully at Lorenzo, "That is the case on all nights Dr. Despite immortality beckoning us, for those who do not take care, only the Abyss awaits. Few are those who come back from the Final Death a second time".
"Aye, I'd wager tha' the Talisman claimin' wha' he is is a unique happening hey?"
Petradon simply nods.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
A Private Villa - the Lido -
The girl sighs, "Sir, I've no place to live but I am concerned now. Still, my belly brings me here against my better judgment".
The two Elder Cainites watch you and your interaction, neither saying a word or displaying any outward sign of interest in her. They are so still they could be statues. It makes you wonder if the girl is uncomfortable because she noticed this or simply because she has seen much suffering in her still young life.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Way of Kings Inn –
The Scotsman shakes his head no, "Ah'm 'fraid a'hve no idea.
Still, if'n ye stay here at the hotel ya' may yet see Andrew himself".
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Venice - A Run Down Manse -
"Ah yes, I remember the days of being a mere deliverer of messages". The Ghouls around him grin.
"I have a message for you to deliver to your Sire. I'll not leave, this is where I shall rise once more. I've died twice and have memories of many other deaths. If this be the place where it must all come to an end, so be it.
I expect that my long time friend..." He pauses as if conflicted as to how to continue.
"Katriana is mine. I shall give him two nights to return her to me. If I do not receive her by then I shall consider him my enemy. Tell him to search his memories to remember just how well mine own enemies fare".
He cracks his neck seemingly trying to restrain himself. He then smiles, "Now then you are here and the Childe of one of my closest allies. Can I offer you a bite? My manners have slipped I apologize for not offering sooner".
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Elysium -
Narses nods to Valdemar, "Send out word".
Valdemar bows and steps into the shadows disappearing.
He then turns to you, you and he the only beings here, well, that you can see anyway.
"Yabghul III the Greater? From where did your family hail and how did you come to be here my dear?"
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Titian Inn -
"I wish to win. I do not wish to win at the cost of what our Clan holds dear.
I have been, am, and will continue to be a patron of the Arts. In this, we are allies, nay, in this you have a true friend in me.
Tell your Sire that so long as he and his allies gathered thus far shift their votes to me, I shall name him Justicar when the time comes".
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Elysium -
Durdona relaxes slightly as the two seem to be alone, "I was born on the Avar steppes and brought to Venice by my Uncle Mehmut. I"m sure my uncle killed my father, but I cannot prove it. He wanted my father's power, and was going to use me to cement it. I was out and about when El Cid came upon me and my friend Lucy. I spent some time in the courts of Constantinople."
She gives a small smile, "I do know how to act in the court when I need to."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Ca'Sagredo Hotel -
"Of course Mistress." Veronica sits dutifully learning magic.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Way of Kings Inn –
The Scotsman shakes his head no, "Ah'm 'fraid a'hve no idea.
Still, if'n ye stay here at the hotel ya' may yet see Andrew himself".
Geoffroi looks at his companions
“I am willing if my comrades are”
at the door to Elysium
We are finding the vote today for the Toreador. With the allegations against Francois has this changed your decisions for who you will pick? From personal experience I will tell you of that bunch Francois and Raphael are the two most reasonable. The difference between them being that Francois treats those beneath him with some respect while Raphael will rule. Decide whom you wish as your adversary and where.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Venetian Back Alleys - Xing Shi
Xing eyes her new fledgling and her surroundings.
This seemed so much easier when I was embraced now on the flip side of the coin it doesn't seem so easy...
Xing will still make her way toward Elysium with this thing but try to find some robes to cover him up so no one recognizes him and take the darker alleys hopefully running into someone she may know.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Hotel Danieli -
"Indeed I did, all Clans are sympathetic to the cause. Between ourselves, we try to share powers that make us, unpredictable to those who would see us bend the knee or greet the sun.
Powers that I shall one day teach to you.
Feel free to share those bits and pieces my Childe.
A few more nights at Court together for you and I and then, I must take my leave of this city. You though will remain. This city appears to be the center of power for our kind now and shall be I believe for some time. Myself and my allies need someone here to watch and listen".
"I will need guards or something. Your foes will likely try to strike at me while you are gone, I doubt my singular mortal guard will stop whoever they send."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Through the City -
Luca could not recount what happened next, but when he came to his senses, he was on his feet. His fist felt a tinge of pain. The wooden table had split from the force of his fist slamming into it in an uncontrolled rage.
"You dare..." Luca seethes, withdrawing his hand from the table, "After what I've told you, after the pain I've shown you. You dare...."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
A Private Villa - the Lido -
Franz grins, diabolically, as he takes the wet rag from the servant girl and wipes some of the dirt off from the girls face: "Oh, why would you be concerned? Surely, if your belly overruled your judgement, you had some expectations about what awaited you here?", Franz continues the cleaning with the rag in one hand, his other hand on her chin, controlling her head to allow better access to the dirty parts. With her cheek somewhat clean, he makes her look diagonally up, wiping clean her neck. "Besides, it was not your belly that brought you here."
Franz drops the Rag, and uses his second hand to firmly grip her upper arm, as he closes in on the nervously pulsing vein that had held his attention for the past couple seconds.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Titian Inn -
"I wish to win. I do not wish to win at the cost of what our Clan holds dear.
I have been, am, and will continue to be a patron of the Arts. In this, we are allies, nay, in this you have a true friend in me.
Tell your Sire that so long as he and his allies gathered thus far shift their votes to me, I shall name him Justicar when the time comes".
"Thank you, much of what you say is of great reassurance to me. It is agreed. My own efforts are not unnnoticed and I put them, and my Sire's votes to your cause. I go to tell him. Please send my respects to your own childer when you see him next. I had hoped to seek his counsel as a peer but obviously that must wait. He seems a fine lad. I look forward to working with him." And he races off to find his sire.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
At the doorway to Elysium -
"The opinions of Clan Cappadocian as it pertains to our choice for Toreador seat has not changed." Lorenzo flatly states.
at the doorway to Elysium
perhaps you would be so kind as to share who clan Cappadocian is supporting in return for my earlier small tidbit of information to you?
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
At the doorway to Elysium -
"I see little harm in providing you that bit of information. We still intend to back Francois...baring any further developments prior to submitting our vote."
At the door to Elysium
And what of you Andrew of clan Salubri, how will you vote? Onfroi with a wry smile and a nod to Lorenzo
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Elysium -
Narses nods, "Assume that you need to from now on my dear. By now, your Sire is long gone from my city. I do not detect his presence nor have my spies seen him this night.
I understand that erstwhile allies of his have also fled the city, he likely fled with them.
Tell me, do you believe that your Uncle's influence can be co-opted by you now that you have become what you are?"
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Ca'Sagredo Hotel -
Mistress Fanchon after two hours cuts the lessons, "That is enough for this night. Come, off to Court we go. Once more we shall take to the sky to ensure our safety. While the mortals may seem calm this night, I will not subject us to any chance to be harassed by them".
As with the night before, you take to the sky with your Mistress, the feeling is exhilarating.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Way of Kings Inn –
Brice nods and tells the Scotsman the room in which he and his allies are staying.
As you exit the room, Brice turns to you bleary eyed, "Time to rest I'd wager".
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
At the doorway to Elysium -
Before Lord Andrew can respond, mist begins to fill the sky overhead, it was ever creeping towards you but with the dark of night is not as noticeable as it has just become. The mist begins to glide gently towards the ground and out from it appear the Tremere, Mistress Fanchon and her Childe, Veronica Acqua.
Lord Andrew bows stiffly to both, "Evenin' Mistress Fanchon, Signorina Acqua. Quite tha' entrance".
Mistress Fanchon glances at the front door to Elysium, "I had assumed that Court would be active already. What is the delay?"
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Venetian Back Alleys -
Xing sees no friendly faces on her way towards Elysium. Luckily her companion moans and groans like a drunken or wounded man. Glances of curiosity or pity from passers by are likely limited to just that due to the conflict that is taking place in the Mortal world. How easy it is for the Mortals to see what it is they wish to see...
You are able to flag down a Gondola and board it as your victim cries out, "What did you do to me? What's happening to me!" The Gondalier pauses eyes wide at the statement in the canal waiting with bated breath for your reply.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Hotel Danieli -
"Or something.
We are Clan Brujah, we do more with less. We adapt and overcome. You will do the same if you wish to continue to exist.
The next several nights of Council you will use to gain allies who will aid you in thwarting any such attacks. The Moor and his Sire, with whom you've a lucrative trading deal are the first you should cultivate.
Tonight, we shall get into a fight, a very public fight. You will vote for Helene of Clan Toreador after I give you leave to cast the vote. I will of course object that I wished to see Francois have my vote. After we argue, I shall storm out, disowning you. Be convincing, your existence depends on it.
Now, about those tidbits..."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Through the City -
Adria stands up and places a hand on your shoulder, "Time to go my friend! After all, we've business." She states urgently.
Your friends seem a bit shocked by the outburst, one retorts, "After all, you were beaten in the riots, many were. No need to strike out at us friend Luca!" Another, "Yes, do as your companion bids, walk, come yourself, then find us when your cooler head prevails".
All look genuinely concerned and a bit afraid.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
A Private Villa - the Lido -
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Titian Inn -
Rafael nods, "Yes, I look forward to working with you and your Sire".
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Elysium -
Tell me, do you believe that your Uncle's influence can be co-opted by you now that you have become what you are?"
Durdona's eyes sparkle a bit at the thought of co-opting Mehmut the Lesser's influence, and taking his wealth. This could be an opportunity to take what he took from my family. Riding on the coattails of my father's greatness. He isn't worthy of that power or the wealth he stole.
"It could be. He's a manipulative man, but I don't believe he is that intelligent. I've worked around his plans to my own advantage often. I don't know these powers work I've been given work. If I can get advantage over him and his family by using them I will."
"Thank you for letting me know El Cid and his allies have left the city. That is a small relief. One day he will get what he deserves."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Venetian Back Alleys - Xing Shi
"Shhhh my friend it's OK. You have drunk to much this evening and things will be alright."
She gives the Gondalier a look. "Keep going."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
The Undercity - Vitaliano
Vitaliano watched his Sire for a bit. He could offer consultation but the man was old enough to take care of himself, besides while he was in way related to him, he didn't exactly have any desire to help the man beyond his own gains.
He simply nodded in the end "They are certainly a hard bunch to find except for when they want to be found... But, he still has a voice in the Elysium so you'll find him eventually." he said simply.
He made a move towards the Elysium to see what else could possibly bother him this evening, for it seemed every night another issue arose to try and sway his anger towards it.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
A Private Villa - the Lido -
Instinctively, Fangs extended as Franz reached the girls neck. He had, somehow, expected her to fight back...but the moment he tasted blood, her struggles ceased.
And Franz drunk deeply. Sweet, sweet vitae. Never had he known such joy. Right then, and there, if Franz had been alone with her, he would not have stopped, enjoying all she had to give until she was a dry husk.
But he was not alone. And he could not act like a...like a animal, in front of his new sponsors.
Straining his willpower, forcing his conscious mind to withdraw from her, Franz realized with some panic that the girl was unconscious...relief came when he saw her chest moving a moment later...she was still breathing.
Gently lowering her down on the floor, Franz sat back in his chair, reached for a tablecloth and cleaned his mouth:"A most excellent vintage, indeed. Compliments to your servant for picking so well."
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Venice - A Run Down Manse - Michele Querini
" while a tempting offer perhaps another time. I will deliver your message to Sadir. Thank you again for your hospitality.
Michele will get up slowly keeping his eyes trained on Talisman as an act of respect. Michele will slightly bow and make his way out. Prior to walking out Michele will shift his appearance and head to Elysium.
Venice by Night – Thursday March 27, 1309
Way of Kings Inn –
Brice nods and tells the Scotsman the room in which he and his allies are staying.
As you exit the room, Brice turns to you bleary eyed, "Time to rest I'd wager".
Geoffroi nods
“Aye. ‘It’s been a long night”
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Through the City -
Luca takes the excuse and moves outside, the cool wind sating this primal fury within. The sensation was odd, as was most of his new unlife, and he could only describe it as a compulsion to destroy.
"How could they understand. Do I want them to understand? What I've become, it's unnatural. I don't even know the full rules of my situation, only that my body longs for blood and to survive I must quench that thirst."
Luca looks back to the warmth of the inside, his old friends waiting for him, though perhaps a with trepidation.
"Perhaps we should leave...."
At the doors to Elysium
Onfroi will defer to his sire waiting for him to gain some small consideration in this situation remaining quiet.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Hotel Danieli -
"Or something.
We are Clan Brujah, we do more with less. We adapt and overcome. You will do the same if you wish to continue to exist.
The next several nights of Council you will use to gain allies who will aid you in thwarting any such attacks. The Moor and his Sire, with whom you've a lucrative trading deal are the first you should cultivate.
Tonight, we shall get into a fight, a very public fight. You will vote for Helene of Clan Toreador after I give you leave to cast the vote. I will of course object that I wished to see Francois have my vote. After we argue, I shall storm out, disowning you. Be convincing, your existence depends on it.
Now, about those tidbits..."
"Is there not some way use our blood to strengthen mortals?"
"I am sure I can make a fight look convincing. Something about if you want to vote a specific way then you should do it yourself."
Edwarde acts as if his Sire isn't fishing for what he heard, he was learning that it wasn't wise to tell any other kindred everything. It was clear his Sire would discard him if the situation worked out in his sire's favour.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Titian Inn -
Rafael nods, "Yes, I look forward to working with you and your Sire".
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Elysium -
"I shall teach you that which you need to know to gain power and influence over your Uncle. For now, let your disappearance mystify him.
Soon the doors to Elysium shall open. Sit at the table of Clan Lasombra, I shall announce you as my ward at Court this night".
He remains silent at your comments regarding El Cid.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Venetian Back Alleys -
His eyes droop as he falls asleep, the Gondalier simply moves the boat to the intended destination after the short drama is resolved.
Soon enough the Gondola nears the docks where sit Elysium. Several Cainites are gathered out front waiting for the doors to open.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
At the doorway to Elysium -
Those awaiting the doors to open see Xing Shi arrive on a Gondola, as she bends over to reach for something the doors swing open. Lord Valdemar, the acting Seneschal from the previous night opens the doors, "Enter". He states flatly.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
On a Gondola -
"Tonight the Toreador pick their Councilor. If this Talisman is among their ilk, I believe he would be the wise choice, after all, he posed as a member of our Clan so his sympathies would lie with us.
Your thoughts Childe?"
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
A Private Villa - the Lido -
The girl is alive, barely. Gustav picks her up from your arms and feeds her some of his own blood to strengthen her. She stabilizes and he places her on the chair next to him as she drifts off to sleep.
Lanzo nods, "Thank you Gustav, I am sure my Childe wishes to partake in her once more, perhaps many more times. The first time is... difficult. You did not kill her, it shows a strong will though you did almost kill her which shows you've much to learn. I hope you are a fast study.
Tonight we go to Court for the first time. You will have a handful of nights to learn at my side before I will need to leave and leave you here in my place. Gustav shall act as your mentor while I return to my master.
Your first lesson, and the most important lesson, pertains to the Laws of the Night. There a small twists in this the Domain of the Lasombra Narses". He pauses.
The First Tradition: The Covenant. Those closest to Caine must rule as we are possessed of the most power and wisdom. It is through us that the rest shall prosper. In exchange, those closest to Caine offer their protection to those who dwell within their Domain. My words of acceptance to you are a sacred bond between us their meaning shaped through the millennia to what was presented to you this night. To obey me is to uphold The Covenant between us both.
The Second Tradition: The Domain. This city is my City, I protect and nurture it by enforcing its laws, the laws laid down by Caine. Those who would seek refuge in my Domain will submit to my will. I shall dictate who shall feed and where they shall feed to ensure that our flock is not thinned and stays vibrant. You shall pay respect to me and to those who I allow to dwell within my Domain. Those who are not welcome are to be brought before me, such is the duty of all who dwell here.
The Third Tradition: Progeny. As the eldest in the Domain only I have the wisdom to understand whether the flock has grown sufficiently enough to sustain more of our Brothers and Sisters. Thus, you may not Sire another without my permission. To do so will bring the penalty of Final Death for you and said Childe.
The Fourth Tradition: The Accounting. Those who Sire take on a great burden. For the actions of the Childe reflect upon the Sire. Your successes are this success and your failures are his failures. Your Sire is to instruct you in the proper rules of etiquette. He is also the first to enforce the Traditions. You answer to him as you would answer to me for your sins are his to bear as well. Once he releases you, then shall your actions reflect upon you and you alone.
The Fifth Tradition: Destruction. As a Christian you understand well the laws of Moses, thou shalt not kill thine elder. Neither shall you spill the blood of another of our kind unless forced to do so to defend your own existence. Those who seek to harm you shall suffer my wrath. If a Cainite is to be destroyed, it shall fall upon me to decide and no others.
The Sixth Tradition: The Silence Of Blood. You shall never reveal your nature to those not of the Blood, by so doing, you renounce your claims to yours. At all times you must retain control of yourself in front of mortals with the exception of those for whom you have decided to take sustenance. Then only through death or deception shall you claim the sustenance you need. Many of our kind have mortal servants despite this restriction, it is up to your Sire to decide how and when you may take such servants under your guidance.
"Questions?"
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Getting While the Going Is Good -
You step out of the Manse and into the night. Though the humans are not nearly as riled up as they were the night before, you can still hear that certain spots would be best avoided.
You finally find a spot to hail a Gondola. As you do so a hooded figure approaches you both of his hands within the folds of large sleeves, he sniffs at the air near you, "I smell it upon you, you are the get of Fahdi Mohammad are you not?"
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
Way of Kings Inn –
Night has fallen, you slept the entire day away in the Inn!
You smell some dinner in the main room but are alone in the room that you had shared with Baldemar, seems he is already awake. You hear his and the voices of Sergei and his men in the common room of this adjoining suite.
Certainly this man has means to afford such a grand hotel and such amazing rooms within.
Venice by Night – Friday March 28, 1309
The Way of Kings Inn -
Adria nods in agreement but says nothing further, sometimes it is time to speak and sometimes time to listen, Adria seems adept at knowing the best time for each.
As you arrive at the Inn you find Francois loitering about outside, "It's about time, come with me, round the back!"