Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Mausoleum -
After some time you arrive at the stronghold of the Cappadocians. After several minutes of knocking though, no one comes to the door. As you are about to leave and flag down a Gondola, one approaches with a disheveled man aboard. He seems rather drunk and the boatman assists him on getting onto the small platform which is the front door of the entranceway.
The boatman seems disgusted by the mans slovenliness and wrinkes his nose at the smell.
The Boatman turns to you shaking his head, "Do you require a ride Signore? Do not mind him, this is not the first time I have left him here though he is usually not in so sorry a state".
The drunken man staggers to the door and slumps down against it mumbling to himself, "Oh Lorenzo, Lorenzo what to do, what to do?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Narses Court – Elysium to a Gondola -
Franz accompanies the other Venture to the Gondola: "No more guidance, dear Gustav. Padua is close enough to visit you for consultation if such a need arises. However, I have one favor to ask: With the current state of politics, the papal bull, riots and ambitious neighbours...if trouble comes for Venice, there is a good chance it will pass by Padua first. If so, try and let me know."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
Quite...
Is the demand to be made in secrecy, or may I get to him through his childe? Locating a Setite will not be easy, if I am to imagine.
Will there be anything else?
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"Death? No, no, Marco...I do not wish to see you die. There are far worse fates than death." Lorenzo says, with obvious malice in his voice.
"Forget this matter? Forgetting is not a luxury that I have, Marco. What will happen for now, is that you will tell Antonia of your betrayal and beg for her forgiveness. Should you be foolish enough to try something like this again, you will see just what I mean by fates worse than death. You are offered this chance only due to the love I have for my sister and her children. Is that understood?"
off to see the wizard
dominate would be excellent, thank you Onfroi responds
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
A Gondola -
"I shall do so Franz.
The House is now yours to command. Ignore not your holdings or servants already stationed here. Bend all to your will with the Blood to ensure their loyalty.
We expect great things from you and have thrown you into the ocean so to speak by sending you as the only emissary of Clan Ventrue on the 'morrow. I have faith that you will not disappoint. You were born to lead and so shall you lead in death".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Streets of Venice -
"The Setites stay at an Inn, San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto. You will find Sadir or his Childe there, at least until the end of tonight.
Be not subtle in the threat for the time for subtlety, and my patience, grow short.
Yes, I must have sustenance if I am to properly prepare for what is to come tomorrow. I would prefer that you give to me of your free will rather than forcing me to take from you". Talisman's eyes glitter dangerously...
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
Marco swallows hard and responds, head down, "I shall do so Doctor. And indeed, I do understand..."
Lydia chuckles, "I can't hurt him, even a little bit?"
At that moment there is a knock upon the front door.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
the Abode of Radek -
"Excellent, I shall have Michael teach you both skills when time allots. I am glad we could so easily come to an agreement.
Now if you will excuse me, I must convene with the Elders of my Clan to deliver the news of my victory..."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court - Vitaliano and Michele Querini
Vitaliano listened to the man. He was a bit surprised when there was an offering of sharing the reward with him but perhaps that was because the man had little in the way of power to lord over him.
He nodded. "I have met a fey that has a glade hidden in the city. I'm surprised by this to be honest as they aren't much for city dwelling. She knows the location of Simon...but I must find a half man with one hand named Haji and trick him to earn her favor." he said trying to explain what little of a lead he has.
"Unfortunately I know no such man or where to begin looking for the most part. I've been trying to ferret out information to expedite my quest." he said detailing his plan.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"No, Lydia, not even a little...for now." Lorenzo says. "Marco, I suggest you make your way home to seek your bride's forgiveness before I change my mind."
Hearing the knock at the door, Lorenzo asks, "Yes? Who is it?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
A Gondola -
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court
I don't trust that grin....
Savio rises with Alessandro.
"I shall see you tomorrow night at the Blue Mongoose Inn, Brother.
His business concluded, Savio rises and begins his return journey to his Inn.
off to see a wizard
Onfroi nods to Radek and thanks him as well and arranges a day and time to return to meet Michael and then Onfroi will depart
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
Marco nods and with the knock on the front door chooses that time exit through the back saying nothing further.
A voice from the front responds, "It is a friend". You recognize Moses' voice as does Lydia and she lets him in while giving a look at Marco a dog would give to a treat that was just taken away.
Moses enters and Lydia shuts the door behind him. His head skims the ceiling he is so tall. He takes a deep breath and finds a seat in your front room, "Here we are again. Feels like quite a long time yet it is little time at all eh?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
A Gondola -
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
Savio exits Elysium pondering the ever shifting rise and fall of the members of his Clan, indeed his own brood. Now, all Lasombra within the city are descendants of Narses, The rest either fled, torpid, or dead.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Other Prince -
The night wears on as you take to your grim task. Finally, with only a handful of hours to spare you arrive at the appointed place with the requested sacrifice.
The nurse looks on in horror made all the more horrible by the fact that Alexander forces her to grin and smile and laugh as she watches...
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Streets of Venice -
It's clear enough that Alessandro is surprised and unsure how this all works. But, it doesn't take him long to respond.
Take what you need.
I suppose how well I accomplish the task you require is somewhat dependent on there condition you leave me in. This is all new for me.
Hubris, having been set aside a long time ago.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"Welcome, my friend." Lorenzo says in greeting. "Indeed it does seem like significantly more time has passed than actually has."
"So Moses, what is this information that you have that may interest me, and what will that knowledge cost?" he asks before adding, "I know you claim to be independent following the disappearance of Brexiano, but know that the offer stands should you seek a more permanent sponsor."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Streets of Venice -
Talisman takes you into his Embrace, it is unlike that of your Love but yet at the same time... stimulating. Much of the force that powers you empties into the Elder.
He looks you in the eyes when he is done, "Long has it been since I have tasted Ventrue Blood. The blood of the Get of neither my Love nor that of Mithras courses through your veins. You descend from a different line, one with which I am not familiar. Who was the progenitor of your line after the mighty Ventrue?
Still, it is crisp and strong in a way that no other Clan is. Truly, the Ventrue are the most pure of our lines.
Shall I summon for you a vessel or several to slake your own thirst?"
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Road of the Hive which the Baali see themselves as Childer of Abel whom Cain slew and stole his blood.
Name: Via Hyron
Translation: Road of the Hive
Nickname: Abelenes
Faction: Baali (Order of Moloch)
Bearing: Justice
Virtues: Conviction, Instinct
Via Hyron, more commonly called Road of the Hive or Path of the Hive, is a minor Road that is followed almost exclusively by the Baali. It was first featured in Clanbook: Baali and then revised as a full Path of Enlightenment for the Final Nights in Chaining the Beast and The Black Hand: A Guide to the Tal'Mahe'Ra.
Adherents are called Abelenes.
Overview
The Road/Path preaches all-encompassing loyalty to the bloodline as a whole and to one's sire in particular. The main reason for this is that the Great Works that the Baali want to achieve cannot be claimed alone or when they interfere themselves with the works of others. The vampire had to let the voices of the Swarm inside his soul in order to understand the dreams of the beings of the Outer Darkness and keep them asleep. Apart from that, most other vampires would actively destroy a Baali if he would be foolish enough to show himself as a Baali. With the help of the road, the secrecy of the bloodline is maintained and the Beast is held at bay.
The Via Hyron was the original road that most Baali followed. But in time, many younger members of the bloodline devoted themselves to the teachings of the Via Diabolis, much to the dismay of their elders. The Via Hyron is not infernal, but seeks to turn profanity and evil against creation's enemies, by instrumentalizing them to keep the Sleepers from awakening. The Order of Moloch practiced the Path under the protection of the Tal'Mahe'Ra.
In the Final Nights, Tzimisce adepts of Kupala, who have reawakened as of 1998, have joined the Path, searching for Baali instructors to lull the demon back to sleep. Many of these are members of the "Old Clan" or have ties to the Oradea League. The members of the Old Clan revised the Path, adding knowledge about blood magic and tying it to an old myths preserved by the Tal'Mahe'Ra.
Mythos
Unlike most Paths, the Hive has a separate mythos about Cainite and the origin of vampirism, called the Abelene Heresy. When Caine struck Abel down, God cursed him and his progeny to gain no sustenance from the Earth without sacrificing joy for toil. Abel was revived as an angel of vengeance, tasked with culling the mortals from Caine's flock to reclaim the blood his brother had stolen from him. Instead of his pierced heart, God granted Abel a new heart, the one the Beast he had sacrificed to him. This sparked the rage of Lucifer, who cursed Abel to never stand in the light of the sun. Vampires were born of Abel, not of Caine, and their task is to stand between humanity and the forces of Hell.
Ethics
Original
Combat the predations of the Beast to keep yourself ready to support your Nest
Loyalty is all. First to your sire, then to your Nest and then to other followers of the Path.
Keep the Sleepers dreaming by committing atrocities.
Revised
Be the Angel of Vengeance. Exact the toll of Abel and retrieve his stolen blood from Caine's children, like a shepherd shearing his flock.
Combat the authority of religion. Institutional worship and dogma are masks and forgeries for Lucifer's church, including the Book of Nod. Only the Abelene creed holds the truth. The Molochim are the shepherds.
Always be within a Nest. The Nest within the swarm of the Hive is the means of salvation to counter the infernal and demonic.
Vampires are shadows cast by the One Above. When the One Above shines into a pit of blackest gloom, shadows are the only darkness permitted to remain.
The Sacred Mission of the Molochim is the sworn duty of all Abelenes. Keep the Sleepers in dreams at the expense of all else.
Listen to your Beast. The one above bestowed the Beast to his angels for a reason. Heed its counsel and release its fury when enraged.
Hierarchy of Sins
Original
Via Hyron
Rating Moral Guideline
10 Arguing with another follower of the Road or your Nest.
9 Joining forces with an outsider against a follower of the Road or your Nest.
8 Acting on impulse.
7 Actively working against a member of your Nest.
6 Betrayal of someone who could benefit the Nest.
5 Feeding from innocents with force.
4 Withholding knowledge from the Nest or betraying a member another Baali.
3 Acting for any cause that does not benefit the Nest.
2 Betraying an Elder of the Road.
1 Betraying your sire or one to whom you are bound.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"A fellow Ghoul, who I have not seen in a few nights, one that served Vykos…" he pauses.
"Plus Michael Santo, who if I am not mistaken is now one of your ilk.
Have been seeking out the sister of the Hunter, Sergei Volkov.
Katriana was, is, her name.
I had very strong reason to believe that she had taken up residence with the owner of Greetings Inn, Gunther Thesing.
Such information I believe is quite valuable yes? There seem to be many parties that have an interest in her as well as him.
With Brexiano gone, and seemingly for good. Michael too has not contacted me in several nights". Moses trails off then regains focus.
"Is this information sufficient to barter with for some Vitae? I fear my supplies run low"...
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Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Other Prince -
"Childe, let the whispers of wisdom from those from beyond enter your mind..."
Alexander opens your mind to the Void Below...
[/b]
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Mausoleum -
After some time you arrive at the stronghold of the Cappadocians. After several minutes of knocking though, no one comes to the door. As you are about to leave and flag down a Gondola, one approaches with a disheveled man aboard. He seems rather drunk and the boatman assists him on getting onto the small platform which is the front door of the entranceway.
The boatman seems disgusted by the mans slovenliness and wrinkes his nose at the smell.
The Boatman turns to you shaking his head, "Do you require a ride Signore? Do not mind him, this is not the first time I have left him here though he is usually not in so sorry a state".
The drunken man staggers to the door and slumps down against it mumbling to himself, "Oh Lorenzo, Lorenzo what to do, what to do?"
"A moment," He says to the boatman and tries to read the soul of the drunkard.
"Easy there fellow, but , forgive, who is this Lorenzo, and why do you lament for him?" Could it be the very Capaddocian I seek?
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
Lorenzo nods. "Bagrat and Michael were seeking Katrina? Dangerous business there, even more so given who Katrina's paramour is."
The contemplates the situation for a moment before conceding, "I suppose that information could have some value. How much vitae will you be needing, my friend?" he asks walking over to get a glass.
"I could use the assistance of someone who can still withstand the sun. My brother will no longer be able to fill that role, one way or another, very soon. Moses, you have proven capable and true to your word in the time that I have known you, I would like to keep you in my employ if that would be something you would consider."
the other prince
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
"I will be careful. The doctor, Lorenzo Cappelli, has offered his assistance and that of his bodyguard with this matter as well. I have no reason in particular to turn down his assistance. Of course I'm new to court, and don't have a good grasp of the subtleties yet." she shurgs as if to say it is your decision on his assistance.
"Vykos did not name a name, but he did say he believed that a Cainite was responsible. Either to ruin the alliance between the two of you, or to ruin him in some other way."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Streets of Venice -
Several females having not given birth. None to be harmed... make certain I do not harm them. My ability to control the Beast.. tenuos at best, yet I require sustenance.
I cannot deliver your message in this condition. I must be, myself... clarity of thought. For I do not know their reaction and I will be outnumbered by those more powerful than I.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court - Vitaliano and Michele Querini
“one armed half man- what is he? What trickery must you perform on him?”
Michele then looks away for a moment with his face growing stern.
“This situation is surprising and delicate as this man came to me a few nights ago claiming some ties to my sire. He bade me not to speak of him to my sire as to not incur his wraith. I have no way of finding him as he was to come to me- soon I believe. “
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Streets of Venice -
Several females having not given birth. None to be harmed... make certain I do not harm them. My ability to control the Beast.. tenuos at best, yet I require sustenance.
I cannot deliver your message in this condition. I must be, myself... clarity of thought. For I do not know their reaction and I will be outnumbered by those more powerful than I.
Raoul Snake-Eyes...
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Mausoleum -
He looks up at you, "Do I know you? Do you know my Brother?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"Three pints would be quite amazing my friend".
He sighs and considers your offer, "Presently, I have no other offers and we have gotten along quite well...
What would you ask of me?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
"Accept his help as you would. We should make allies of the Cappadocians as we did of their Giovanni Family.
A Cainite responsible eh? Then this complicates matters, I shall send with you a Shadow Hunter as well. That being shall be my eyes and ears that I may come to your aid if needs be my Ward".
Narses pauses, "One final matter to discuss. Lord Bajazet has once again asked permission to bring you to the stronghold of his Clan, Alamut.
I have instead stated that you should be taken under his wing here in Venice. Have you an objection to spending time with Lord Bajazet?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Streets of Venice -
" A simple enough task..."
Talisman closes his eyes, several moments later several women exit from nearby houses and head right to where you both stand. Talisman leads them, taking you by the hand as well, down to a dark alleyway. From each woman you draw just enough Blood with Talisman literally pulling you away just as you are about to drink too deeply. He then looks deeply into the eyes of each and they stagger off as in a daze. All seven walk away unharmed and you have within you more blood than the Elder took from you.
Once again, you feel a strange palpable power emanate from him, as if warding off all those who would happen by, you though are still able to remain.
He speaks, this time out loud, "Raoul Snake-Eyes. Yes I know of this name. He was destroyed by Mithras when he rose from his Torpid state three centuries ago. The triad that had ruled the British Isles was cleared way making room for the Court of Avalon that rules the Isles today. The Court of Mithras. Those who had served the triad either switched allegiance to him or were slain.
If Medon objected to the slaying of his Brood, he has not stirred or taken any direct action as of yet.
Enough of the history lesson Fledgling, deliver my message to the Serpents..."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"Three pints it is then". Lorenzo says with a grin.
"As to a particular task, I have nothing in mind at the moment. I simply like the idea of having another trusted ally."
"If there is nothing else, I think it is time to return to the mausoleum. You are more than welcome to join us, Moses."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Streets of Venice -
Thank you, I shall do as you require. Alessandro moved off...
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court - Vitaliano and Michele Querini
Vitaliano sighed as the questions began to roll in. "Unfortunately dealing with fae is tricky in of itself. They give very little to help you earn their trust. I surmise that leading him down a dangerous path, lying to him to make him mistrust, or even hiding things of his to confuse and annoy him would all suffice." he offered for the second question
He trailed back to the first though "To that..I have no idea. I'm not particularly long lived of this world. While I had dealings with the Nosferatu for some time before I became a Childe of the Night...Knowledge was one thing I wasn't able to cultivate easily. So as far as what is meant by a half man...I am as blind as a bat." he said trying to be somewhat less annoyed sounding.
"Right now, I've been going through taverns and the clients in an attempt to find someone who might know of even a one armed man. That at least would start us down the path."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
"Thank you my prince for the additional assistance. I'm good at seeing things that need to be seen, but extra eyes to watch over me are appreciated."
About the matter of Lord Bajazet. I understand that my clan has special skills that I need to be trained to use, yes? As well a secrets that all clans have. I don't object to spending time with the Lord in Venice. It's preferred to leaving the city for an unknown place."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court - Vitaliano and Michele Querini
“ Perhaps then you should continue down your path and I will see if he comes to me. If he does I will inform you. Until then.”
Once Vitaliano responds Michele will move to procure a gondola to head back hoping to catch his sire before the night ends.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Mausoleum -
He looks up at you, "Do I know you? Do you know my Brother?"
"That depends on who your brother is, what is your family, sir. I am Ranerius, by the way."
He tries to gentle his composure. The man is afraid as well as depressed.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
Moses shakes his head, "Sorry the Giovanni made that place seem far too eerie for my taste. Perhaps I can stay here for now? You will certainly know where to find me if I do so".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside Narses Court -
Both Cainites having found common cause split of and return to their respective Havens.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Michele, taking a long winding route home after speaking with Vitaliano hoping in vain that Haji might approach you, as you arrive at "your" Inn, you find Alessandro the Ventrue loitering outside on the front stoop. He stands alone and the streets are empty. The Mortals having gone home for the evening, finally. And if not home, at least off of the streets.
---
Alessandro, you attempted to open the door but it was locked and no one answered any knocking. You decide to wait a bit and are rewarded when Michele arrives...
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Inside Narses Court -
"Good.
Head upstairs and find a room with a bed, sleep there, this place appears old from outside and is light tight. See me before you begin your investigations tomorrow night".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Mausoleum -
"Why he's Lorenzo", he giggles.
Before you can respond further, the door opens and a very gaunt man steps out, "There you are Dominic, Lord Benne wishes you enter". Dominic crawls inside.
The man turns to you Ranerius, "I fear the business is closed for the night sir, you will have to come back tomorrow if you wish a reward for assisting Dominic home".
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
"That is acceptable, Moses." Lorenzo says. "Be aware, that when I arrived here tonight, my brother-in-law was here with some trollop. If he should return, please do not kill him out-right."
"Lydia, it is getting too close to sunrise for my tastes, shall we be going?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Alessandro bows, deferentially.
He continues is hushed tones. Michele, we never did get to chat.
I have been tasked with delivering a rather urgent missive, to your Sire. May I please speak with the two of you?
Wherever you wish, but the time must be now.