Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
You and Lydia make your way to your former residence. The streets here are not full of angry Mortals, those here who would join a mob would rather have the errant torch alight another's house and so this area is quiet.
There is a single candle in the window of your former home...
If Moses is here, he is well hidden unless he already entered and lit that candle. Though you do not know him well, that does not seem to be his style.
in a Gondola on the way to the Masoleum
Lord Benne, I am Bernardo Morosini, Gangrel of Padua. I have no idea of the happenings in Venice as I have been on a task for the Prince of Padua and just now have come here. Bernardo says with a shrug and a smile
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"Lydia, something seems a bit off, we should proceed with caution...the Volkovs know of this place as well and I am not willing to write them off quite yet. Let's head around to the service entrance." Lorenzo says, while listening and watching for any sign of who lit the candle.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Narses Court – Elysium -
A bow of the head,Thank you for the support, Lord Criatas. Would you have guidance as to how I can help make this a reality? Ventrue or o, I am not as connected as I should be, as yet.
May I ask advice, if it's not too brazen of me. What is your vision, and which clans or whom do you believe may offer the best chance of attaining it?
I do not seem to uncover secrets, but rather sound reasoning and enlightenment. Perhaps even, philosophy.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
On a Gondola -
The mass exodus makes talking for the initial trip away from Elysium difficult, after all, who would want anyone else to hear details of your proposed alliance?
Soon enough the Gondola's all clear out, leaving both of you and Petradon. The driver of course as well but he has been conditioned not to listen.
Petradon turns to you Ranerius, "Tell us Fledgling, what idea do you have that you believe would align our Clans?"
"Of course, Elder," He would if he were mortal take a breath before continuing, "I believe I have a plan to settle the kine, to ease the panic of the people of Venice born of the excommunication. Even a herd in a panic can be dangerous to man in their path. So it is with us and them. To soothe my fellow venetians and increase stability among them we mitigate the stigma of the excommunication or at least make it more bearable among them. My plan will do that."
"I would ask that Onfroi be allowed to aid this if you agree, and if he is interested, of course."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Vitaliano and Michele Querini
In a bit of a lowered voice Michele says, "Vitaliano, do you have a moment to discuss something in private?"
assuming he replies favorably and we can head off to the side a bit....
"I was at the Blue Mongoose earlier this evening talking with the barkeep and another. Their words lead me to believe we are looking for the same lost person. I am wondering if we can perhaps work together on finding Simon?" Michele whispers the name Simon
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court -
Durdona decides not to wait any longer to give her news, and ask for guidance. She enters the building, and looks around to see if now would be appropriate to ask for a moment of the Prince's time.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Narses Court – Elysium -
"Yes indeed, I do have business - with your Seneschal. I was embraced very recently to represent my Sire, and would like to ask permission to bind 2 mortals already in my employ into my service by blood, so that someone bound to me can do those tasks that need to be performed during the day, and to better keep the nature of my change hidden - I apologize for bringing this up at this time, but I fear upholding the silence of blood will be difficult otherwise. As I understood such rights are to be formally requested and I hereby respectfully do so."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
On a Gondola Bound for the Mausoleum -
Benne nods, "Is the Prince of the City of Padua a Childe of Narses or merely another Elder of the Lasombra Clan?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
Lorenzo heads into the back and hears the voice of his brother-in-law and the sound of a female giggling. That does not sound like Lorenzo's sister though...
Lydia whispers, "This is not the voice of that Ghoul is it?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court -
Criatas shrugs, "Old as I am, I do not claim to know the ways of your Clans inner workings. I assume that you must offer something to get something. This may already be something that will come to pass. I would ascertain if this is so before giving something further for a position already secured".
Criatas considers the question, "This is not a topic for here and now Fledgling. Though I would be happy to debate the topic another night in a more secure location with more time.
I am here to ensure that your Clan does not run roughshod over the others thereby utilizing this institution as a stepping stone to yet more influence. Though I must confess, it seems that this is something the Lasombra Prince of this city is seeking..."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
On a Gondola -
"Based upon the history between my Childe and your Clan I would say that he is indeed the one most suited to this role among my Clan.
This is a bold statement you make, something the Prince himself has not accomplished. Or is this because the Price has become so out of touch with the Mortals due to his advanced age?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Narses Court – Elysium -
Valdemar nods, "Your request is granted Franz Albert as it is reasonable in scope and limited in influence.
If there is nothing else?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
You step through the front doors and into the inky blackness of the Court, you feel as if you are falling and then you are caught by strong arms.
You feel yanked again harshly! If you still had a stomach no doubt your food would have been left behind. Suddenly you find yourself on your feet once more, within the chamber of Elysium.
Seated on his throne is Narses alone.
"My dear. Have you news?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"No, I do not believe it is." Lorenzo says, his voice dripping with disdain as he enters his home. Marco, you had best have a damned fine explanation for this...
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Narses Court – Elysium -
Franz bows as he answers:"Nothing else - I shall take my leave now and thank you for your time, trust and wisdom."
Franz leaves Elysium and heads to his regular home, intending to turn his trusty manservant and head butler into an even more loyal follower - if such was even possible.
Venice, a Gondola
Onfroi nods and says I am interested but I will have to petition like any other to stay in Venice after the conclusion of conclave business and find domain, so having a way to earn place will be good for me.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court -
Perhaps, I am a bit too eager. That should go away as I learn more. That is excellent advice, my thanks.
I find the whole situation the more keenly painful because I am from Venice. Whatever happens directly affects my home.
Shall I convey to Lady Alyssa and Lord Mithras, your regards?
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
Durdona bows low. "Yes my Prince. I have distressing news. Bagrat Kansarakan is missing. I went to the Inn as you requested, but the Lord there said that he had not returned for several days. He assumed that he was here at Elysium with you."
"I have offered to look for Bagrat, and Lord Vykos has offered the assistance of Dragan. He seems to be a hunter of some type." She continues to stay bowed waiting for the Prince's reaction to her failure.
"Based upon the history between my Childe and your Clan I would say that he is indeed the one most suited to this role among my Clan.This is a bold statement you make, something the Prince himself has not accomplished. Or is this because the Price has become so out of touch with the Mortals due to his advanced age?"
He shakes his head, "I have underestimated Elders before, and I am not blind to the power of the Prince. His approval will make this possible, and it is not a pursuit of self glorification... it will never work if that proves to the be case or cause. It will take efforts from more than one of this new Sect. Toreador, Nosferatu, and yes, other members of other clans to set this in motion."
Venice, a Gondola
Onfroi nods and says I am interested but I will have to petition like any other to stay in Venice after the conclusion of conclave business and find domain, so having a way to earn place will be good for me.
"We share similar needs, onfroi, and I have considered your offer. If I can make sure I can remain, I think at the least I can arrange a haven for you if you too can remain. "
To both Nosferatu, he explains, "We need to find a salve, a balm to the fears of the faithful by giving them an outlet. There will be work with songs, hymns of hope, that talk of the power of forgiveness, of redemption ... and that god, not man is the giver of it. Oh subtle, I know, we must be subtle, but stir their imagination, let them hope again. Let the songs seep into the populace. What can the Pope do, excommunicate us again? But that is only one part. We pool our resources, arrange a memorial where we claim a saint's reliquary is stored. The Capadocians, the Lasombra... they can help, the Toreador can craft the grandest crypt or memorial to store it. It can become a place for the locals to gather, to believe. Faith is a dangerous thing to play with, but here we pick the location, we pick the form. I am not trying to be blashempous, I am trying to find a balance between being a shepherd and wolf alike. The Nosferatu are underestimated, but you know everything, of this city, of the best locations... and you see from the shadows and hear things we do not. In that, you maybe closest to the kine for you know what they do when they think they are alone. You know what they say when no one else can hear."
He hopes he has caught their interest and their imaginations.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court - Vitaliano da Riva
Vitaliano was pleased to see the court come to an end. Perhaps this will mean his nights will be quieter so that he can begin work on cultivating his own businesses into something more grandiose and profitable.
At the very least, he should be down to only one madman pounding on his door per night. Once outside he bowed to his elder Malkavians "I hope you were pleased with my work and the outcome of the courts decisions. Perhaps tonight is a good night to celebrate and spend time reflecting on what it is that you need to do to move forwards? Me, I have my own thoughts to work over...so I will be taking my leave." he said trying to escape any plans to be forced into merriment with them.
He tried to slip away from pack and went to the gondolas to see if he couldnt' find a nice empty and quiet one. The nights since his undeath have been filled with noise and talking near constant and he was looking forwards to some solitude and quiet for a moment before having to go back to finding Simon.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court -
If Lord Criatas is done with him, Alessandro will move out to rendezvous with Talisman.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court -
Criatas smiles at you Alessandro, "Certainly do so. I am sure we will speak later in the week after the Camarilla's initial meeting".
Criatas turns to Maria, "Time to go my dear".
---
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
You arrive at the agreed upon location and find Talisman speaking with a few Mortals. They appear enraptured with him.
He smiles as you approach, "My new friends, this is Alessandro, a close friend of mine".
-------
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court -
Vitaliano, as you step away from the Malkavian Elders, the Setite approaches you.
In a bit of a lowered voice Michele says, "Vitaliano, do you have a moment to discuss something in private?"
assuming he replies favorably and we can head off to the side a bit....
"I was at the Blue Mongoose earlier this evening talking with the barkeep and another. Their words lead me to believe we are looking for the same lost person. I am wondering if we can perhaps work together on finding Simon?" Michele whispers the name Simon
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Narses Court – Elysium to a Gondola -
You exit from Elysium with Gustav with nor further incident, by the time you exit most of the other Cainites are gone though some loiter about conferring in secret with one another aroundNarses island.
Gustav speaks once you are all alone, but for the Boatman, "I shall take my leave tonight as Court ended earlier than expected. As discussed, will remain in Padua not far if you are in need of any assistance.
Once your Sire returns I shall return to my own affairs in Berlin. Is there any last guidance you wish of me?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
You enter your former home and find your Brother-In-Law, quite naked with his back to you, kneeling next to what was your bed performing cunnilingus on a woman in the bed who is not your sister.
Ltdia giggles at the sight causing the girl to open her eyes and let out a mousy squeal. Marco turns to you and becomes as pale as you would be with no make-up on, "Lorenzo! I thought you had left Venice!"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
On a Gondola -
Patreadon shakes his head, "By virtue of being my Childe you are resident here Onfroi. It is part of the reason that the Giovanni have been pushed out, to make room for extra Caintes".
Petradon shrugs once Ranerius' explanation is complete, "As a first time visitor here I fear I could not help you. Onfroi though should be a bridge between you and the local Nosferatu. It would also be a useful way to repair the rift caused by the disappearance of Simon and his Childe's loss of the seat of Camarilla power to me. I approve of this idea so long as my Childe wishes to pursue it".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
Narses frowns, "Dragan eh? He brought that cur with him and never announced him.
It is no wonder that Fiend has not been coming to Elysium, he lost his peace offering to me.
Indeed, I approve of you working with Dragan, beware of him, wolf in body he is snake in his soul.
Tonight I shall ask the Nosferatu to search for Bagrat, then tomorrow you can search in the places they were not able to go, that should narrow down the places you must go. Did Vykos indicate any Cainites in the city he thought might have an interest in this Ghoul?"
on a Gondola, yet again
Onfroi had not yet been told this but was not upset with the news.
Well, my offer to enter business with you still stands and I will assist you Ranerius
GM storyteller
Sire, Ranerius if you might both excuse me I yet have much business.
Onfroi will depart to see Radek since court ended early.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
Speaking through gritted teeth, Lorenzo responds, "On that count, you are mistaken Marco. You are also mistaken in thinking my home is an appropriate place for you to betray my sister."
Turning his attention briefly to the girl. "Dress yourself and get out of my home. Never return."
Returning his attention to Marco, Lorenzo demands, "Now explain to me why I should not do something that could greatly upset my dear sister and her children - at least until they learn what an unfaithful dog you are."
While waiting for the response, Lorenzo thinks of the many ways he can harm his brother-in-law with the Path of Grave's Decay. Perhaps I will wither away the offending parts of his body...but which one to start with? The tongue or something else...
on a Gondola, yet again
"Then I am grateful to you both," He bows to the elder then nods to Onfroi, "I hope to help you in return, Onfroi. You are welcome at my residence."
When Onfroi departs, he makes his excuses to the elder Nosferatu, "I should continue to work on this project where I can."
I need to seek out a Capadocian, or at least a third.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
Alessandro nearly feels revulsion, but that is too strong a term. He's made strides with the idea, but... had no desire.
He looks quizzically to Talisman, hoping the ancient opens a mental link.
I have not gathered enough to know if one of your power requires sustenance more frequently or less, or perhaps less but in more abundance. More subtle or brutal in the... taking.
If you require some time, I can wait.
Alessandro is in a somber mood, but maintains etiquette.
riding with new friends?
I am not the princes keeper but I am new so perhaps it's best if I keep quiet about others business, eh? I simply know I am here if n behalf of the prince of Padua conducting business and I must introduce myself Bernardo says plainly
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Abode of Radek -
You arrive at the Inn in which Radek stays, not the same as Mistress Fanchon any longer as tension were running too high.
Unlike other Inns, this one is not populated by Dominated Ghouls but Mortals, testy Mortals at that. Here, the Doge is in favor and you are questioned on your loyalties, answering of course that the Doge is wise for what care you now of Mortal politics?
Upstairs you are received by Radek, his Childe is not present.
"Greetings Onfroi, what brings you to see me so soon after the events of Elysium, is there news I should know of from Clan Nosferatu?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
The woman throws on her clothes quickly and runs form the house as fast as she can move, Lydia leering at her.
Marco frowns at you as he places his pants back on, "Your sister has been frigid since our last Child Lorenzo.
I have provided for her and she has repaid me by failing at her wifely duties. What other recourse have I? I am but a man who still lives and breathes and has needs. We cannot all be as virtuous as you Doctor".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
Talisman gets the "hint" and responds, "These treats are for you and you are for me my good friend...
Feed and then we shall conduct business"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
On a Gondola Bound for the Mausoleum -
"A youngling who believes that less is more. Rather refreshing if disappointing.
Very well young Bernardo. Your own counsel keep".
Soon enough you arrive at an imposing edifice. Truly the entire city is a wonder. Padua has its beauty but Venice is truly unique and beautiful in a way you could not have understood without seeing it first hand. The streets are literally rivers and canals.
The Cappadocian home is a wonder in itself, black marble grey and white veined. Doors so large and ornate you could believe they enter into the Underworld itself.
The entrance is on the water directly so that none may walk here and cann arrive by Gondola only.
The inner doors lead to a business atmosphere where you surmise Mortals do the day to day business of burials. The red velvet interiors on the walls and the red carpet are rich and no doubt expensive as is the fine Italian furniture.
Benne brings you through a second set of double doors to the inner sanctum of the Clan. Here in a beautiful parlor a dour looking man is seated.
Benne raises his eyebrows, "Still here?"
The man nods, "It is time for you to finish what we started if we are in agreement that is. Your Childe be damned, agree to my demands or I shall walk Lord Benne".
Benne purses his lips, "Best to discuss this out of the presence of my house guest no?"
The man stands, he is tall and imposing but the slighter built Benne is unfazed, "The details are known to us both, are we in agreement or no?"
Benne shakes his head, "In all but the taking of our mutual acquaintance, you must replace that request with another. Perhaps a Boon to be repaid later?"
The man frowns but nods, "Yes, a major and a minor or I walk, right now".
Benne nods back, "Very well, we have an agreement".
The stranger gestures and a phantom rises from the floor! H nods to you Bernardo, "Follow this apparition to your quarters "house guest".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"Virtuous?" Lorenzo says with a humorless laugh. "Hardly. You have given me your reason for betraying your family, but that does not answer my question, Marco. I ask again, why should I not do something that would make my sister and your children rather upset?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
Alessandro is thankful for the mind to mind communication. My apologies, and with all due respect... Talisman. I do not wish to partake. Life, existence? Has been hectic of late.
Otherwise, how may I be... of assistance?
Onfroi bows to Radek and says Congratulations on your victory. I have come for repayment of my actions on your behalf, two disciplines taught. Chemistry I would like, but the other I would like to negotiate to something diffent you might offer?
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court - Vitaliano and Michele Querini
Vitaliano paused. He was surprised he had not noticed the man approach. He turned and gave the man his full attention. He followed him to a small spot off to the side and listened to what he had to say.
"Indeed, though I have to ask...Why is it that you seek Simon?" he asked to make sure that he could trust the man.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court - Vitaliano and Michele Querini
"Simon's child Ferdinand bade me to find Simon as he fears what Petradon will do in his absence. Of course if I find Simon or what happened to him then I would be rewarded. Perhaps if we join forces we can share in the rewards?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"What would you do Doctor? Have the swordswoman stab at me?
How does my death aid your sister and nieces or nephews? All for a dalliance?
What say we forget this matter altogether? I shall trouble your home no longer".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
"Very well".
"Run along", he tells the Mortals and they obey without hesitation smiling at him.
Alone now on the street with you Talisman enters the shadows of a building and bids you attend to him.
"Events unfold at a rapid enough pace that I shall need a second set of eyes and ears to aid me. I believe you can be that set of eyes and ears my friend. Or perhaps a mouthpiece instead.
A meeting shall take place tomorrow here in Venice, one a century in the making, and I wish for all interested parties to be in attendance.
I would ask you to seek out the Setite Sadir, tell him to bring Katriana Volkov to Via Orsoline. One the western portion of this maze of a city. Tell him that if he fails to do so, all kinship between us, shall be forgotten and that I shall hunt him and torture him in a way that only one as ancient as I can devise.
Is this clear?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Abode of Radek -
"Indeed, your assistance was well worth the cost.
Chimerstry will take some time, more time than I shall have tonight or the next night but within a few days we can begin that instruction.
Perhaps the power of Dominate interests you?"