Venice by Day - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
Baldemar whispers back, "I do, he is one of the men that aided the Knight Claudio and Volkov's men in discovering these night fiends. I would come back here later to see if we can meet with him once more".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
Veronica and Selina part with with Maria and begin to walk through the city streets.
Hotel Daniele is near one of the larger canals of the city and therefore has heavy Mortal foot traffic. The Mortals here are interested in eating and enjoying themselves though many complain of not being able to participate in the Mass today due to the Papal Bull. Some Priests did defy the Pope but enough left to make the Churches still operating crowded to say the least.
Soon enough you are both away from Mortal prying ears in back streets passing small cafe's, homes, and other businesses, able to speak freely.
Selina smiles serenely though you see the Hunger in her eyes, "I will be happy to return to my own Domain, this place is too crowded with Mortals for my own good".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Studio of the Artiste -
The female voice responds, "Do come in dear and close the door behind you".
The young artist smiles and gives you a small wave Ranerius as the door closes in his face.
She stands before a blank canvas though she is covered in fresh paint. On another mural is a painting of Prince Narses himself, doubled in his appearance. One as you see him now and perhaps one as he was before or perhaps as the Toreador sees him? His lightened visage stands before a dark background with a dim red light in the background while the dark visage stands in a light background with a dim gold light in the background.
She turns to you, "Not my best work but it will need to be destroyed anyway. The Prince is not fond of his image being placed on display.
Tell me, what is it you envision that you believe you will need my assistance with?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Hotel Danieli -
Criatas comes down the stairs and smiles at soon you after Veronica and Selina leave.
"My dear you look positively radiant.
Tell me, shall we vote for Veronica and her Mistress of for the Renegade Wizard to join us on the Council? You have spent some time with her and will need to spend more time still if her Mistress sits upon the Council, I will need you here as I go forth and collect the wayward members of the Blood into a cohesive Clan once more".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Blue Mongoose -
He pulls a larger sack from his own shirt and vest, a larger sack than had business to fit in it, [smaller]"I know a guy with a pot o' gold. So there's more'n where this came from. Take your. Take mine. Leave. Don't come back. That suits me better".
"I believe Veronica's sire would be a suitable candidate, Doctor." Maria bows.
"Is there anything else you need of me while you're away?"
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Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji - Vitaliano Da Riva & Alessandro Khadaji
Vitaliano smiled until the questions started coming in. It was frustrating that he had no true answers but it seems that he may have created two more allies this evening which spells fortune for the future.
His pointer finger begins to tap on the table out on the balcony. "It's aggravating that so soon into our alliance that I show myself useless to you. Even if it's temporary, I do not like to be useless." he said, his anger boiling over a bit.
He bit his lip and managed to get his emotions back under control. He took a deep breath and then let it out before continuing to speak "A funny thing, breathing. I suspect I don't need to do so anymore but it still has a calming effect. I imagine that is just our mind playing tricks on ourselves." he said going off topic again for a moment.
He seemed to notice that he was diverting and swept a bit of hair back behind his ear "Apologies, rambling once again. I do not know a Volkov but I imagine that I can find them soon enough. I find myself capable of getting things out of people they don't mean to offer and slip past prying eyes with ease. So information gathering is a specialty of mine." he said smiling coyly.
"It's a shame but I could not pry from the Fey it's reasons for it's desire to trick the one handed man. They unfortunately had me completely under their thumb." he offered.
"I do not know much of what a Ghoul is...but I am certain I was never one. I was about to become food for the Nosferatu but I had delved into the Occult heavily before I was found. I knew enough to know that my position as a Dr would be valuable to them as I could get access to all the blood they would need without them having to find and possibly expose themselves. I took a chance and luck would have it, I found a fantastic venture to increase my profits." he said grinning devilishly.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji -
Alessandro seems nearly pleased. From where I sit, Vitaliano Da Riva... You may go in peace. Please keep us posted with regard to Simon or that other matter.
I will try to find this One-Handed Haji.
Alessandro looks to Alyssa, should she have any further to say.
Venice by Day - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
Baldemar whispers back, "I do, he is one of the men that aided the Knight Claudio and Volkov's men in discovering these night fiends. I would come back here later to see if we can meet with him once more".
Geoffroi nods
“A good plan. Perhaps he will have more information for us. For now let us continue on to Sergei. “
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Studio of the Artiste -
The female voice responds, "Do come in dear and close the door behind you".The young artist smiles and gives you a small wave Ranerius as the door closes in his face.
A smile back and a nod as he enters fully.
She stands before a blank canvas though she is covered in fresh paint. On another mural is a painting of Prince Narses himself, doubled in his appearance. One as you see him now and perhaps one as he was before or perhaps as the Toreador sees him? His lightened visage stands before a dark background with a dim red light in the background while the dark visage stands in a light background with a dim gold light in the background.She turns to you, "Not my best work but it will need to be destroyed anyway. The Prince is not fond of his image being placed on display.
Tell me, what is it you envision that you believe you will need my assistance with?"
He looks over the painting, and makes note of the Prince's dislike of his image being used, "For anyone else, I would say it was amazing work and mean it" A compliment meant. Ranerius bows to her "And thank you for seeing me and hearing me out. This project will concern some clans but we Toreador most of all and I would not risk your understanble wrath if I were so gauche not to at least bring it to your attention, and I would be a fool not to hope you give it a chance. I hope to work on a monument of architecture, with stone work or statuary so amazing to outlive perhaps even us. Were it for art alone, it would be enough for Beauty is our calling mm? But it serves more than that... the building or monument is to enclose a saint's bone, a relic. Or at least so the public will believe. This will settle the nerves of those kine in the city who are in near panic for their souls, it will give them hope. And provide us a bit more stability. I myself am working on songs, hymns that will help the faithful ease their despair...but the resting shell for the holy object? Oh songs may change with time, and wonderfully or woefully, but that monument will help through these trying years and far far beyond. "
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
"I am Andrew, Lord of Moray. My friend call me Andrew the Hardy on account o' my livin' through some grievous battle injuries.
No apologies necessary Savio, tensions err high an yer a new face easy fer me ta recognize whereas ya may no have known me from a sea o faces las' night.
Exchange eh? I am fer tha', my best work has been in tha' service fer others. Tha' Lord works in mysterious ways, tell me, what is it ye seek an how can I help ye?"
Savio bows slightly.
"Well met Lord Andrew. I seek one of our kind named Xing Shi, a Lasombra. Any information of her location, or leading to her location would be greatly appreciated. Help me in this and I will return the courtesy."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji -
Alyssa turns to Vitaliano, "Since the Ventrue decision failed to go Mithras' way we have not attended Court but we have heard a rumor that this Talisman has revealed himself as the Methuselah Michael the Patriarch of Constantinople.
Were you there? Can you confirm this to be true?
Is your clanmate Gregor still in Venice?"
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Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Hotel Danieli -
"Indeed, I will need you to sit on the Council in my absence. I believe that most of the Elders will take their leave of the city. This will mean that the active participants will be a group of twelve Neonates and Prince Narses himself.
To ensure that he will not unduly influence you, I will need to provide you with my Blood once more on the 'morrow.
Tell me, are any members of your Church Mortals that can be trusted to keep your secret? You may need Mortal allies while I am away to guard you by day".
Venice by Day - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
As he climbs the stairs with you he turns and whispers, "Listen to the news of the missing noble Lord and Lady, do you believe the strife of the politics or our night fiends have claimed them?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Studio of the Artiste -
She paces her tray upon a table and turns to regard you, "Does the Prince favor this idea?
My understanding from my Herd is that the Mortals are not allowed go practice the rites of Catholics until the Doge surrenders Ferrara, how will this effect your idea to make the Relic a centerpiece of your plan?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
"What do ye seek her fer? She's been an ally o'mine since we both still drew breath".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji - Vitaliano Da Riva & Alessandro Khadaji
Vitaliano paused and stared with much conviction "I mentioned this at the council of his complete self but yes the man known as Talisman is Michael. Though, his body is that of Sebastian, or rather Saint Sebastian as Lanzo called him if I got the name of the person who called him such right. Sebastian it seems diablerized a Tscimize of equal power to himself and then Michael himself, but the soul of Michael was too strong for him and it took over./b]" he said trying to get it all correct.
"[b]The madness of Malkav offered me this insight which I offered to all present. It was confirmed." he said matter of factly.
He paused "I do not know if Gregor is still in the City. But he has given me his confidence and wishes to use me in his plans. If you wish to speak with him, then I would suggest staying close to me for eventually he will come back to me I imagine if he truly believes I'm useful to him."
He smiled to Alessandro "Thank you, perhaps alert them that I am friend. But I will not offer them a blow to their ability. I will leave as I came, lest they get discouraged or for that matter jump at every mouse that skitters all because one such as I that they cannot understand slipped past them." he said smiling.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
Veronica shrugs,"I have lived here my entire life...except for brief travels with clients I have never left this city. Where are you from?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji -
"Let Gregor then now that I would meet with him".
----
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Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
"The Romans called my people the Gauls or the Germanics.
We knew ourselves as the Chatthi. The Forests are where I long to return to. The earth itself nourishes me. This cobbled stone, these mortared buildings make me feel positively drab.
Here corpses are tossed into this filthy stream you call a canal. Home we bury the dead that they may return their life essence to mother earth herself but then I suppose the sea Gods need their sacrifices too".
If you wish to seek out a Vampire, as you have met them all and all know of you from the Conclave, let me know which one.
If you wish to seek out Mortal contacts give me a Charisma+Carouse+Contacts roll DC 9, 3 successes required here.
Seeking out Haji is also problematic as he is a secretive fellow. Give me a Charisma+Carouse+Contacts roll DC 10, 3 successes required here.
I believe your contact is a Nosferatu but for rolling purposes, Contacts are mutable.
Tell me, did we flesh out your Allies? If not, this might be a good time to do so to aid in this quest!
So, I believe the contacts represents the Nosferatu and I think the allies was a mixture of sellswords/nare-do-wells and Nosferatu.
Alas, it seems I will waste the night attempting to track down one or the other.
Vitaliano does plan to try and slip to the Elysium before they convene for the night at least based on how long everyone normally stays if he hadn't already spend all that time and some talking to Alessandro and the Sorceress.
So if he would need to hit the Elysium first then sure, that's where he would go partially to see the outcome partially to throw the names around and attempt to gather info on Volkov primarily and Haji on the off chance.
I went ahead and included the scheming roll I believe is right with a hopeful addition of a third qualifier. Obviously if I chose the wrong dice just cut where needed.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
"I need to verify some information with her concerning her lineage. Nothing more."
Savio pauses for a moment.
"If I may ask, what do you know about her sire?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
"She's Lasombra".
Andrew pauses and considers the question, "Nothing about her Sire, I may have seen him once but in passing. I d'nae recall his name.
Her Grandsire is Alejandro o' Jerusalem. Apparently he was tha' Prince there till tha' Saracens reclaimed tha' city from the Outremer Empires.
Him I know ta' be a child o' yer Sire".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji -
Alessandro, replies simply. Most wise.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Studio of the Artiste -
She paces her tray upon a table and turns to regard you, "Does the Prince favor this idea?
My understanding from my Herd is that the Mortals are not allowed go practice the rites of Catholics until the Doge surrenders Ferrara, how will this effect your idea to make the Relic a centerpiece of your plan?"
At this, the newer member of the Toreador comes alive, figuratively of course, "Oh but this will not be alone. I will help muse from others and write hymns. Songs about Jesus' forgiveness that while not challenging the pope's decree directly, instead strongly hint that the only thing that can truly sever a mortal from God's love is that mortal himself. It maybe low key heresy mind you, but what would the pope do about it? excommunicate Venitians again? The monument, and within that monument, a saint's bones or ashes. Something the common man, in his ignorance, might gain comfort from just brushing his hand against. No official rite, not even pilgrimage for they shall be native to Venice. Think of the opportunity and perhaps even challenge, to construct something radiating humble majesty perhaps, something to shape the nature of spirituality by its very force of being. " His eyes almost light up "Perhap;s something with acoustics so that the sounds of prayer if they do happen turn into an echoing chant? You are the maestra, the one who can take these flashes of an idea for the monument and transform them into something legendary."
Then to her question of the Prince, "It is the Prince i must introduce this plan. I hope to have more than one Clan working upon matters to make all, the relic, the word, the narrative... this is a chance to show the potential of harmony between clans and the strength of the Camarilla, the very Camarilla the Prince seeks to elevate. I have earned a night of his time, to make this proposal. It was suggested to me that I gather the names of those who will be a part of it. Never would I offend you by going to the others first. But oh, the promise of this seed."
Venice by Night - Saturday, March 29, 1309
Outside the City of Padua -
”I’m Einar Arnesen, and honestly, I’m not inclined to explain myself again this night, no matter if you’re a milksop Prince with two mute witches or a hard-ass Ventrue with just the one.” He sighs. ”These f***ing politics and lies frustrate me. As I understand it we both want the same creature dead: you as a matter of honor, and me as a matter of employment. I can bait the shadow-Prince into a trap, but I lack the strength to spring it. Strength you possess.
“Another resource I’m running low on is time. So, I ask you: How bad do you want this drittsekk dead? Are you willing to ally with a mercenary to get it done, or are you content to twiddle your thumbs and wait for a more reputable opportunity to come along?”
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
"I guess I see your point...especially after the change. Never really been to the wilds though...always been kinda of afraid of...I guess what we are now. Silly I know..."
Padua
Bernardo bows lightly to the prince and says Prince, the elders who were at the University bid me tell you that some things are not worth "the juice.". They refused the invitation to introduce themselves though I reminded them of the traditions of the host and their guest. The one moved with such speed as I have never seen. They threatened my life while I used your name.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Elysium -
"Certainly a shame. But also an opportunity. Narses is Lasombra, yet stands in the center of the stage, with the eyes on him, and no shadows to veil his actions. And these are...interesting times for Venice, with the Pope's recent actions. When I went to meet with you and Lanzo, there were riots in the streets. I think right now, not being front and center may work to our advantage, since it gives us more liberty regarding our options, with fewer eyes on us..."
Franz takes a few deep breathes of the night air. Neither because he needed, nor out of habit, but to enjoy the smell of the slightly salty, damp breeze.
"Still, why would Narses refuse to become Ventrue? Your wording makes it clear he had the option - and eventually became Lasombra. Did he lack Vision during his mortal days?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
After an hour of fruitless searching, Vitaliano realizes that it is time to head to Elysium, after all, should he not be there to see the victory of his Sire in this vote? Without this vote, Vitaliano would still be a mere Mortal.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji -
Alyssa moves with you to a more secure room within your Manse, "My Love, this Talisman is a dangerous creature. I would suggest you steer clear of it.
Assisting this Malkavian may be wise it seems, I shall stay until I gain a meeting with Gregor as I wish to know it's thoughts on Talisman so that I may make a full report to Mithras".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Studio of the Artiste -
She smiles serenely her eyes glazing over as if envisioning what you are describing, "Yes Fledgling, yes I can envision it.
Where would you wish to build this monument?
Have you any other Clans who have agreed to work with you? Even if not a firm commitment?"
Venice by Night - Saturday, March 29, 1309
Outside the City of Padua -
Belisarius chuckles, "My dear, whether this millennia or the last, they make these Vikings the same don't they?"
The woman nods in mute agreement.
"We are ready, let us walk to the ship or boat you have procured.
You can tell us of your plan and your Sire on the way.
While I understand your frustration on such trivial matters as vengeance that spans nearly eight centuries, I would know He or She that has blooded you into the night. You must know, my patience are not endless, especially these nights, for those who do not answer my queries plainly".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
"You are wise to be afraid, more than just our kind lurk in the shadows, especially the shadows of the Forests.
Tell me, if your Mistress loses, what purpose do you serve/"
Venice by Night - Saturday, March 29, 1309
The Prince of Padua's Known Elysium -
The music stops as you give your report, though the ortals continue to dance they do so at a much slower and disjointed pace.
The Prince stands and approaches you whispering, "Elders. Playing a game they wish I would not be a part of.
Interesting.
Tell me Bernardo, do you wish to earn that Boon you so clumsily requested earlier this night? If so, find a way to follow these Elders and inform me of their plans. Where they go, you go.
In exchange, I shall grant you unlimited hunting privileges within this city. If what you discover is valuable, I shall reward you with something comparable in measure to that which you uncover".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
"Even if my Mistress wins my purpose will be to protect the prostitutes of this city. Even though our lives are better than any other women in this city it is still a male dominated world... and any woman seems suffer the brunt of Male rage."
Padua
Bernardo looks at the prince a long moment and says simply I have already marked my prey and will hunt for you, Prince.. Bernardo stands and will depart with the Princes permission and find a quiet place to use his Sight and find where Einar has gotten himself to in the city.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Elysium -
"Never fear to be front and center Franz. Our powers were developed to withstand the rigors of such. Let lesser Clans work from the shadows, sometimes at our bidding of course but always should we strive to lead from a position of strength and power.
No, he did not lack vision, he is in some ways the architect of this city.
Instead he had ego in abundance. It was an affront to him that his rival Belisarius was chosen before him by the Methuselah Antonius the Gaul, who was Hardestandt's Sire.
Belisarius was to be the Sire of Narses. Narses refused and was Ghouled instead. Though there are some that say that Belisarius was never going to bring his rival into the Long Night I find it unlikely that he would have taken a position counter to that of his Sire.
Instead Narses went or was sent west to assist in cobbling together a collection of lagoon communities to unite for mutual defense against the Lombards. Narses gained the attention of the Lasombra Methuselah who would eventually become his Sire, Boukephos.
While his Sire wandered, Narses remained and has been the power behind Venice ever since".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
"A self appointed purpose. What if you are instructed by the Tremere Can to leave, how will that purpose change? If you do not cultivate your magic, will they find you a liability?"
She asks as you continue to get closer to Elysium.
Venice by Night - Saturday, March 29, 1309
The Prince of Padua's Known Elysium -
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Elysium -
Franz laughs: "Oh, I am not afraid of being in such a position. I desire it. But I want to build the foundation for that in such a way that I know it's strengths and weaknesses. I grew my business from the ground up. Shaped it to my vision...I knew how things interacted behind the scene, could minimize risks and maximize profit - because I tried to leave nothing to chance. I have experience with politics, but I am new to this court, and these actors. Some time to find a solid foundation, personal allies, and gain a more thorough understanding of the motivations of the other players seems...desirable. So while I am quite content to stay subtle for now, know that my ambition is...grand."
Looking around for more Gondolas, Franz nods:"Thanks for the explanation regarding Narses. As said, I am well aware I have much to learn. Only when I am confident I can see the pattern of this dance, will I try and act to further my goals. Until such time, I will probe and react. I believe such caution is also in my Sire's best interest, as I was not formally released."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Studio of the Artiste -
She smiles serenely her eyes glazing over as if envisioning what you are describing, "Yes Fledgling, yes I can envision it.
Where would you wish to build this monument?
Have you any other Clans who have agreed to work with you? Even if not a firm commitment?"
"The childe of the Prince to whom I spoke seemed quite open to the idea of the Lasombra Clan using it's own influences. As you well know, their interest in the Church and other institutions can be.... most impressive. As for the others, well, I thought it best to come to you first so not to inadvertently give insult to a clan sister. There are others I need to approach."
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Shadow:
You need no patrol his your hunting ground to know what transpires there. With but a moment of concentration, you may extend his senses to any area you has marked.
System: To use this power, you must first mark one or more areas with his own blood. You may have a number of marked locations equal to your Perception score. Thereafter, the player may roll Perception + Awareness (difficulty 7) to extend your senses to that location.
Venice by Night - Sunday, March 30, 1309
Ubriaco Marinaio -
"Good evening, Durdona. Nice to see you again." Lorenzo says in greeting. "We were on our way to the Greeting Inn, but were somewhat disappointed to see it boarded up. Am I to understand that Ubriaco Marinaio is closing now too?"
Looking around at the bustle of clientele, he says, "Seems rather open to me."
She gives the dangerous looking woman a quick glance and a frown. "Of course. Doctor."
The Ubriaco Marinaio is open. I just spend a lovely evening with a new friend there. The pasta was divine. I' feeling a bit crowded on this busy street and was just looking for a quieter place for a few minutes when I saw you."
Venice by Night - Sunday, March 30, 1309
Ubriaco Marinaio -
The woman smiles again, "BY all means then, why don;t we go outside and enjoy the fresh air together, shall we? Lorenzo and I can come back for a bite after we speak".
She turns and saunters out the door.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
House Khadaji -
Alessandro extends his senses, cautious to know if anyone is near. Dogs, trained dogs... He would work on that. You know, I value your opinion, your counsel. I shall heed it.
I am pleased you will be delayed, even in the slightest, my Love. I shall assist the Malkavian, and I do like Simon... There is an allure. To know even the slightest but if what he knows. My conversation with him was cut short.
He snakes his arm around her waist.
Dearest, it will take me a while to learn how to navigate the world of Kindred. Some skills I will leverage, others I will learn. I would like to earn your admiration. I would like to look at you, hear you and know that you are period... of me. That I am your childe.
But, I also wish to be my own man... For who I was, who I am... will always be my strength. I may not yet be as strong, as fast or as cunning... But, no one will ever be, nor ever was... me. The Alessandro before you.
Is that silly of me?
Venice by Night - Sunday, March 30, 1309
Ubriaco Marinaio -
My God, that woman is a predator in every sense of the word... Lorenzo thinks to himself as he follows the pair out the door.
"How have you been, Durdona? Last I saw you, it would seem you were having a few family issues. I trust those have been remedied?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Blue Mongoose - Michele Querini
Perception + Occult