Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Ferdinand looks concerned about the notion that Narses could be involved, "I doubt that. They have been long time acquaintances and sometime allies. If anything, he would prefer my Sire over Petradon who is much less willing to compromise than Simon.
Still, that is a a troubling thought.
What I have to offer depends on what you discover. If you discover nothing, I offer the gratitude of my Clan and we have a long memory i regard to such. If you uncover something useful for us to follow up on then we can decide what is appropriate. If you find the killer then you can practically name your reward".
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
Geoffroi puts a calming hand on Baldemar
“Steady, friend. We walk under Jesù’s protection. Mother Mary’s blue cloak shields us from harm. Let us proceed calmly, but warily”
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court - Michele Querini
Pausing for a moment, Michele then says “Agreed. Tell me what you know so I can determine the first course of action. Also how do I contact you discreetly in the future?”
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Franz listens to Mistress Fanchon, and when Lanzo does not interrupt, continues to talk: "Oh, most certainly. But before joining this illustrious circle, I spent my time building a trade empire. So in some things, I may think like a merchant. Then, it does not only become important what a group or individuals stand to gain but also what they have to lose. Sometimes, taking a risk is worth it, and sometimes, others have more to lose than yourself, and it's smarter to let them spend resources and effort to minimize that risk. One stands to benefit as well, while the competition is left weakened. Or someone may need to accept a deal bad for them, because there is too much at stake - if they don't buy at the upmark demanded, they may lose a contract entirely. Of course, someone else may want them to lose it and pay even more for the goods...", Franz explains, apologetically,
"As you say yourself, his purpose is unclear, but if he meant to purely counteract the Agenda of this camarilla, seek escalation rather than an end to the conflict, then he would be in the wrong place, oder nicht? It also would seem counter-intuitive to consider voting for him, by the very logic you present. Of course, that in turn means that if he hopes to have any chance to gain enough votes, he will have to negotiate very cunningly, and offer a lot to his potential backers. And an offer cannot be considered in a void - it is always weighted against other offers, judged by risk, potential gain, and the longevity of the arrangement. The merchant in me, again, I'm afraid. Don't misunderstand, I see your point, but the open nature of this gathering means we are expected to at least listen to all potential candidates, and hear them out, and learn how cooperation with them would benefit the Camarilla as a whole, and Clan Ventrue specifically."
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
When you enter the Father stands and moves over to greet you.
"Signore! You have arrived, I was beginning t get worried when I ordered such a large meal with no way to pay. Can we sit down to business now?"
Seeing Master Cappelli turning to leave, Maria quickly nods at Selina. "I should perhaps go and introduce myself."
Then she moves to approach him. "Good evening, sir. You look to be a knowledgeable man--do you have any insight as to what has transpired tonight? I'm afraid I have no experience with these affairs."
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
"Very well then, the full truth.
I am Il Corvo, I have been stalking the streets of Venice seeking out wrongs to right for several years honing my skills as a warrior. in defense of the downtrodden.
A few months ago, an ally of mine, the man you met with earlier this night was visited by his own father who he had not seen in some time. With his father was a new contact from the British Isles, a woman named Fitz Gilbert. She the daughter of my ally's father had been sent here to conduct business and as there was already some alliance, our mutual contacts humble abode was utilized as the place which her men would lay their heads.
The daughter had a secret which our mutual friend found out too late, she was and is a practitioner of the dark arts. A creature of the night, she took our friend as a member of her order. So far, I have seen no outward untoward behavior on his part despite his new sanguine appetites. He appears the same as he always has been, a man of honor even though a Saracen.
I have been counseling him to retain what he can of this Humanity.
Through him we could use her to aid you Sir Baldemar".
Geoffroi pauses
“An English Norman night creature. Intriguing “
He turns to Baldemar
“So it seems we must seek the aid of one of my English cousins who is one of the night gaunts. Say your prayers to St Michael ,St George, and one for St Mark as well, since he protects this city “
To Il Corvo
“Onward to this Anglais sorceress!”
Savio stands, bows, and pulls out a seat for his new acquaintance. He offers his hand, if it is taken by Durga, he will respectfully take it in his, kiss it, and help her in to the offered chair.
"I am Savio Ingannatore of House Lasombra, childe of Prince Narses, it would be my pleasure to be in your company. Please sit my Lady."
I wonder if this is business or pleasure...or both.
Once Durga has been seated, he gently pushes her in, and takes his seat.
"Good evening my Lady, I thank you for your company. I am new to this ballroom, and care little for dancing, but when the choreographer says dance, I must dance. I am taking a moment to study the endless waltz, and perhaps, find a time to cut in with a suitable partner. If I may, does the dance bring you here tonight as well?"
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Ferdinand lays out what he knows, "A few nights ago Simon went to a meeting though he never said with who, he did not generally share such things as he did not generally have anything to fear.
He never returned from that meeting. We are not entirely sure where the meeting took place though likely in a Nosferatu warren of which there are several.
His Childe, Cristiano Lintini, has also been missing since that night. He was in his Mortal life, a proprietor of the Blue Mongoose but searches of that place have turned up nothing.
I will contact you, instead of you seeking me out. One of our brood will meet with you in your Inn every other night an hour before dawn for an update as to your progress.
I hope you have better luck than we at uncovering this mystery".
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Mistress Fanchon nods curtly, "By all means then, explore what the Rebel can offer to you and yours. I assure you that the burdens of any such deal will far outweigh the benefit in the long run. This is the Long Night after all".
Lanzo stands as does Fanchon, he kisses her hand, "On the 'morrow then my dear?"
She bows stiffly and heads upstairs likely to seek out another to politic with.
Lanzo turns to Franz, "Let's see what her renegade has to offer shall we? If you find him tonight fine, if not arrive early here tomorrow to speak with hims of his Childe, one Michael Santo. I and Gustav shall take our leave now. I see no one else here I would wish to interact with save the Prince and I have had enough of the shadows for one night".
Maria approaches Lorenzo, "Good evening, sir. You look to be a knowledgeable man--do you have any insight as to what has transpired tonight? I'm afraid I have no experience with these affairs."
Durga Syn leans her cane against the table, "My dancing days have left me far behind. I am here at your Sires request to be a neutral arbiter and tally votes which are not clouded by ambition".
Savio regards Durga, and attempts a smile to cover his mixture of envy and awe.
"For one to exit the dance before their final bow, is an accomplishment of such magnitude, I.... I have not the words to convey. You have my admiration, something I have never given to another.
The freedom she must have......
Savio regains his composure.
"Forgive me, gushing like a school boy, it is inappropriate. Tell me, what would you like to speak of? Or, if you prefer we can sit quietly and watch the dance together. I am at your disposal."
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
"Greetings, Maria. Lorenzo is fine, no need for sir." Lorenzo says. "I do appreciate the compliment, but I have not been as I am much longer than you have. I have, on the other hand, been very fortunate to have a number of highly skilled teachers."
"As to what has happened this evening, your sire, who was already a very powerful Cainite, has become even more so after his election to the Council."
"Now that the Brujah representative has been selected, the Malkavians, such as Lutz, make their cases for joining the Council. After that it will be the Nosferatu's turn I believe."
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Veronica will seek out Mistress Fanchon and layout the offer for her.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court - Michele Querini
"Well that is not much to go by. I can't search the warrens. Did he have apparent enemies beforehand?
Is there anything you can tell me about him that maybe few knew? anything would help."
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Outside Elysium -
Durdona's head tilts as she continues to listen to conversations not meant for her ears.
Elder against Childer. That does make sense. My sire sacrifice me for him in a moment.
She stays still as she hears footsteps approaching. Not recognizing the two speaking she waits to see what might happen next, and she doesn't want Giovanni to know she was close enough to hear his conversation with Leeland.
She continues to stand in the darkness and wait as the two leave.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Franz also stands and bows deeply to Mistress Fanchon in a sign of respect as she takes her leave. Waiting until she is out of earshot, he turns to face his Sire, trying to read his expression: "I shall do as you ask. Honestly, I had hoped she would offer some kind of deal. An incentive to choose her over Radek, so to speak. But it seems she is unwilling to tip her hand, or certain enough that her victory is in our best interest. I apologize if I pushed her too hard, but I was under the impression that she might have been willing to offer more than words."
With that, Franz departs the Ventrue table, looking for Radek, only stopping briefly to congratulate Criatas the Elder on his elective victory.
Things might be different in the long night, but doing so still seemed the polite thing to do.
college, Padua
Bernardo stretches out his senses with his discipline protean listening and watching closely for any kindred in the area
darkness rising
Onfroi arrives looking as he did last time, some random fellow and he smiles and nods and slides the funds to cover the food plus a bit more across the table saying [b]one would not wish to say I was not one of my word[/b}
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
the Streets of Venice –
Il Corvo raises his hand, "Tonight I fear is not possible. The night is half over and I cannot contact her directly, it will have to be tomorrow night that this meeting takes place.
For now, return to whatever other duties you have. I will arrange a meeting for us all in a neutral location from there, if you feel comfortable we can move to a more secluded spot wherein she can do whatever it is she does to aid you Sir Baldemar".
Baldemar nods but his eyes burn with fire, "Very well then, in the shadows of the Doge's palace. That is where we shall meet, be there for 8 pm".
Il Corvo bows, "It shall be done. Have you anything else to ask or any other concerns?"
"My concerns are Legion but I will do what I must to have my mind free of this cloud, Sir Geoffroi?"
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court - Franz Albert Capsali, Lorenzo Cappelli, Sister Maria Bellarosa, Savio Ingannatore
Durga shrugs, "I am weary of the fight for space on the dance floor. Others have crowded myself and my kind out. I am unlike those of my own Clan in that I have outlasted my enemies. The greatest of my enemies defeated, I believe never to return.
Still, even though my dance is concluded if the music continues to play I will follow its melody and so I have. Finding new relevance for an existence that is as long as mine is also a challenge.
I would know of you as I would know of everyone. Each of us is the same yet unique.
In life and after it, I am a counselor of the young a role I relish more than any other".
Lanzo smiles, "No apology necessary. You chow yourself to be as bright as I had hoped you would be. Do not admonish yourself, that is my job.
Go, speak with the Elder, no doubt you will make a good impression upon him as you have with all others you have encountered thus far".
Lanzo and Gustav then withdraw from Elysium furthering emptying the room.
As you search the room you see Criatas is not present. Mistress Fanchon begins to climb the stairs and your eyes follow her coming down there he is, the quarry you seek, Fanchon stops him on the stairs and they exchange some words.
Soon enough he moves along to the first floor and he turns in your direction.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
As you exit the room Criatas proves himself much fleeter of foot and positively bursts forth heading for the stairs. At the same time another door opens and floating there regarding you is your Sires enemy, Radek the Renegade.
He nods to you as the Toreador Councilor exits the room smiling satisfied it seems with the conversation she had. She too heads to the stairway.
A few moments later you Sire ascend the staircase and she attempts to gain the attention of the Toreador who murmurs, "Tomorrow".
Fanchon then begins walking towards you as Radek floats, cross legged in her direction. She pauses and turns to him. He speaks, "This does not have to be adversarial Fanchon".
She is cool in her response, "It is too late Radek, you made your choice, choices, to remain estranged from your House. The price must be paid".
Radek nods, "So be it".
He floats down the stairs and does not look back.
Mistress Fanchon turns to you, "His blood is forfeit my dear for you to claim once we are victorious tomorrow evening. Tell me of your meeting with Criatas". As she speaks, she steps into the room you just occupied with Criatas and shuts the door awaiting your response.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
"It is true, there is not much to go on and if there were more to go on, we would likely have solved the mystery by now. We have no mystical arts to speak of, the Tremere are too ambitious to trust, the Assamites too aloof. It is true that your Clan is not to be trusted but sometimes when all else fails, even one who is not to be trusted is better to trust when at least that devil gets results..."
Ferdinand closes his overlarge hideous eyes, "The only enemy he has are two fold. The first, the Baali, demonic Cainites, if they can be called that, who have no presence here in the city. At least that we are aware of.
The second would be Petradon. It would seem foolhardy for his to try and slay Simon but I suppose it could be that he is behind this, if he was to fail though his own existence would be forfeit.
The last thing I can tell you is that my Sire... and this is a secret that you cannot repeat to another, has the power of True Faith in God and was as far along the path to Golconda as perhaps anyone has been, ever".
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Outside Elysium -
The one named Antoine seemed upset by something the other said. Antoine identified himself as Malkavian but no further discussion a shad before these last two depart.
As you wait for the Gondola's to disperse, another set of Cainites exit Elysium forcing you to retain your Obfuscated state.
One was quite the busy speaker and you believe him to be a Ventrue. They speak in another language, not Italian or the dialect of your homeland.
Gustav responds, "I do agree, I am disappointed that I was not able to claim him for myself!"
The other grins, "Hardestadt will be well pleased with my selection I am sure. With his ascension in this Camarilla we will be able to restore some order among the Clan. Mithras must be given the powers of this multi national policing force as otherwise we will split the Clan unduly".
Gustav frowns, "I believe that my Sire would also be a wise choice for that..."
Lanzo stops him, "My friend, Mithras will never leave his precious island, his subordinates will do such activities for him and to that attachment I will ensure you are added further extending your power and the power of my Lord".
Gustav nods, "So be it".
They board one of the few Gondolas left (if some don't come back a handful of Cainites will have to share or swim!) and depart.
Venice by Night - Saturday March 29, 1309
the City of Padua -
Your eyes begin to glow red as you look about. The Hound also looks about.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
"Greetings, Maria. Lorenzo is fine, no need for sir." Lorenzo says. "I do appreciate the compliment, but I have not been as I am much longer than you have. I have, on the other hand, been very fortunate to have a number of highly skilled teachers."
"As to what has happened this evening, your sire, who was already a very powerful Cainite, has become even more so after his election to the Council."
"Now that the Brujah representative has been selected, the Malkavians, such as Lutz, make their cases for joining the Council. After that it will be the Nosferatu's turn I believe."
That still makes you more enlightened than I.
"Malkavians and Nosferatu?" Maria tilts her head. "Who are they?"
Venice, family in peril?
That still makes you more enlightened than I.
"Malkavians and Nosferatu?" Maria tilts her head. "Who are they?"
"Lord Criatas has not taught you this yet?" Lorenzo asks. "Surprising, but regardless of that, the Malkavians and the Nosferatu are other clans of our kind, just as you are of the Brujah and I am of the Cappadocians. Each clan as its own...specialties and eccentricities."
Lorenzo pauses for a bit before saying, "I would say more, but I do not wish to presume to teach you in ways that your Sire may not."
Venice by Night - Friday March 28, 1309
Greetings Inn -
”Sleep in that, it will hide you from daylight even if somehow the windows are smashed in.
Tomorrow when we wake I shall take you by boat to Padua, there you will meet whoever the Master wishes you to meet with. Is this all clear?”
”Quite.”
Once Dragan leaves, Einar sizes up the accommodations. He gives a shake of his head before dragging the tub to the corner of the room farthest from the windows. He then gathers up the blankets and tips the tub up onto its end, crouching beside it and slowly lowering it down over himself. Once inside he scooches his basin-cave over until it’s firmly in the corner and sitting stable. Laying the blankets along the inside rim, he blocks up any gaps between tub lip and floor. Once satisfied that he will be safe from any errant sunlight he leans back as best he can in a hunched sitting position and attempts to fall asleep, one hand on his bundle of wet clay and the other on the haft of his axe.
So, this is how gods sleep. Delightful.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
the Streets of Venice – Geoffroi de Clairvaux Vitaliano da Riva (hidden)
Vitaliano raised a brow at what he was hearing. He practically loomed over the three that were speaking. To his knowledge, mortals all, were speaking of things they should not know and names that were held in high regard for that matter in the Court of the Night.
He paused, this was getting in the way of his work this night...but perhaps it was worth the time spent, there was no timeline on when he had to toy with the one handed man and with this kind of information perhaps even he could make someone else do his work for him.
He watched eagerly, his senses straining to focus on those in front of him.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Outside Elysium -
Durdona waits until she feels the coast is clear, and moves back inside Elysium.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court - Michele Querini
Michele smirks a bit at his first few words then it is betrayed into a look of confusion
"Power of True Faith in God? path to Golconda? What do you speak of as I thought our kind cast away and cursed?"
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court - Franz Albert Capsali
Finding his mark, Franz takes a few steps towards Radek, maintaining Eye Contact to show his wish to talk, but not imposing himself on the Tremere.
If Radek accepts the invitation to talk, Franz will walk next to the floating Mage:"Mistress Fanchon just left from our table, after trying to make certain Clan Ventrue will vote for her. She was displeased to learn that we intend to honor the nature of the elective process by hearing out all the parties involved. She makes arguments that seem reasonable, but that is often the case if only one side is heard. For that reason, I am here to listen to your side of the story and learn how your victory would be beneficial to this Camarilla project as a whole, and Clan Ventrue specifically. Your ability to fly is quite impressive, by the way. Never seen anything like that."
Savio pauses, thinking on Durga's words.
"What would you know my Lady? I remember nothing before my embrace. I suffer from horrible nightmares every day, I believe them to be glimpses of my former life, though I remember them not when I wake. I do what my Prince asks out of duty, I excel out of pride rather want of power. I have not yet embarked on a road, nor know how to even start. "
Savio pauses once again, smiles, and looks into Durga's eyes.
"I would appreciate any counsel from one as wise as you."
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
the City of Padua -
As you rise from the tub, neither Dragan or Vykos is present to consult with. Your task to travel to the mainland to meet these would be assassins weighs upon your mind as your first task in your new life.
You consider visiting your men before taking a boat to Padua but decide against it for now, if you are to lose control better to kill some Mortal you do not know, in a city you will not stay in than your own valuable men.
As early as you can you head to the mainland. Easily enough you commandeer your own boat and steer your way through the water to head to Padua by foot. You know you've little time so you run. The feeling of not having to breathe is... interesting.
Finally you arrive and begin wandering the city... how to find these two is something that Vykos did not elaborate upon...
Venice by Night - Saturday March 29, 1309
the City of Padua -
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Alexander is seated in a plush chair with several plush chairs around him, "Welcome friends. Please sit".
The Mortals sit the children a bit frightened as if they sense something wrong, the mother and father are dazzled by this beautiful young man. You begin to feel enchanted as well. The feeling is quite subtle but powerful you and they are enraptured by what Alexander is saying though after a while you realize you have no idea what he is even saying as the language subtly shifts into one not known to you. The children too fall under this spell.
His speech begins to take a ritualistic cadence one that begins to become more harsh as you listen but does not have an impact on the calmness these Mortals feel.
He turns to you, "With the youngest, drink deeply, fully, follow along in age up, next to the mother and finally with the father, you will not drink his blood but eat his heart".
You in no way feel compelled to do this.
A look of horror passes on the faces of the Mortals but they are still too... mesmerized (?) to even move.
pealing back the veil
Onfroi watches the process and then simply gets to the task
Padua by night; Einar and Bernardo
Bernardo taps the hound to alert him to the burly man and then Bernardo approaches the fellow attpting to slide in behind him and follow along until they are Al not as much in the crowd
Then Bernardo taps the fellow on the shoulder ready to go claw by spending two blood in protrean and a blood in celerity but keeping his hands hidden in his cloak and saying to the fellow:
Did you get yourself lost there fellow or forget your manners? What is the idea?
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
"Are we? Who told you that?
No one is cast away who keeps his face and soul turned towards God.
As far as Golconda, it is a myth or at least I believed it was. It is a mystical state of enlightenment where a vampire is no longer subject to the Beast, or alternatively the Beast and human aspects of a vampire are in balance".
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Radek nods to Franz, "Indeed".
He floats closer to the floor and drops his legs to the floor, they are clearly lame and likely can barely hold his weight. He lifts them again, "An ability of necessity as you can see. I was one of the last true Mortals of House Tremere brought across.
Indeed, Mistress Fanchon wishes to isolate my Grandsire who many blame for the fair haired Childe Etrius' death centuries ago. Of course, my long exile from the Clan is yet another reason. The crime of free thought is one that the Tremere punish ruthlessly. Elect me and you will have a Cainite that will be able to freely negotiate in the best interest of us all. Fanchon is a puppet of those who sit above her in the Tremere Pyramid".
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Before Maria can respond Lord Criatas makes his way down the stairs, "My dear, it is time for us to take our leave. Doctor Cappelli, will your Sire be in attendance tomorrow evening?"
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
"That is both my hope and my understanding, Lord Criatas." Lorenzo says.
Turning his attention briefly back to Maria, "Perhaps we will continue this conversation another another time. Until then." With a polite bow toward the two Brujah, Lorenzo takes his leave and begins to make his way back to the Mausoleum.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Elysium Front Entrance -
As you enter Elysium you see the Toreador woman Helene and her Childe exiting, she pauses as you are about to pass her by, "Tell me my dear, have you been given a permanent position in Narses Court?"
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Durga is thoughtful, "No Road? So then you cling to your Humanity still? That must be difficult with so little of your memory as a Mortal intact.
There are several Roads that our kind can choose to walk down. I am not surprised that Narses has been no great instructor in this, his will to power was a rise from the bottom and he only respects those who can rise on their own merit.
You can be your own man or you can be Narses man you cannot be both. Who do you wish to be?"
Savio reflects on Durga's words.
The fire burns in me, I NEED conflict.
His thought organized, Savio replies, "I cling not to my humanity. I am simply ignorant. I wish to be my own man. I care not for political power, I seek, I need... the thrill of conflict...testing my limits and abilities. Without that... I see no purpose. However, I am bound to Narses, and must play his games."
Savio frowns, recovers, then asks, " Pardon my aforementioned ignorance, how do I find a road to follow? Or am I even asking the proper question?"
Savio sits back awaiting an answer with great interest.
Venice by Night – Saturday March 29, 1309
Prince Narses Court -
Veronica says straight forwardly,"He wants one of two things...1: He wants us to track a vamp...I mean a Cannite for him or 2: teach him the power of Chemistry. He did say we could tech him how to track cannites...but I don't think we would want to be teaching that trick."
Venice by Night - Saturday March 29, 1309
The City of Padua -
”Did you get yourself lost there fellow or forget your manners? What is the idea?”
”Guds baller!” Einar almost jumps out of his skin in surprise, whirling around wide-eyed to face the Italian as his hand flies to his sword hilt. ”What’s your idea, sneaking up on a man like that?!?”