Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini and Alessandro Khadaji
Michele does his best to match the bow. “He does not stay here every night and I believe tonight he will not be. Can I deliver it to him based on this haste?”
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Alessandro seems slightly alarmed, or at the very least not wholy comfortable. Some part of me would like nothing better that to pass this burden to you, Michele... and be done with it.
But by better nature, insists it would be proper to deliver the missive myself. I do not mean to make demands, however if there were a way to make that happen presently... it would be for the best.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini and Alessandro Khadaji
“ I do understand but it is better to tell me now then to wait for tomorrow or the day after as I am not sure when he will be back. If I know what the situation is perhaps I can give some guidance to you know. If not you are welcome to stay the night here with me. “
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
May we please go inside? It feels rather... open or here, strange. Typically, I like al fresco.
The burdens, they get so heavy. His face is concerned, thoughts racing... But, his eyes are clear.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
The Ventrue steps quite literally into the Serpents den.
Within are several Mortals who lounge on chairs and couches. A man behind the bar mechanically fills glasses with drinks. Some of the patrons drink them, some do not. All move as if in a dreamlike state.
Michele brings Alessandro around the Inn and they find it empty save the Mortal herd and themselves.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Cappelli Residence -
Moses nods in agreement and grins a bit, "I usually ask questions before I kill people Doctor".
You leave Moses with the best lodging he's likely had in some time.
Lydia follows along, after all, she is the servant and you the Master in your relationship.
---
You arrive at the Mausoleum rather late as Lydia makes you turn a few extra passes due to what she describes as Mortals acting a bit erratically and she does not wish to be followed.
Once she decides it is safe, you enter. One of the few workers of the daytime business that survived "the purge" sits in the office through which you must pass to reach your Havens. He sits up when you enter, "My Lord. I am sorry I fell asleep! I was bid to leave you a message before the new night dawns and I did not wish to forget. A man, I believe he was one of your kind, Ranerius was his name, wished to speak with you urgently. I told him Lord Benne shut down the premises to visitors for the night. He wants you to seek him out when you can tomorrow errr night".
The message relayed, he heads off to bed exhausted.
Lydia shrugs.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Considering their state, I'll assume it is safe to speak here. So many things to share? Do we ever share... I take it you have been at this long than I. You seem more comfortable in your skin. It's comendable, truly.
Do we ever share or is it always clan vs. clan? With each clan having its own pretense, and twisted version and perversion of reality? I am a noble Ventrue... he bows again. At your service.
Simon is missing, he seemed such a ray of hope... he seemed different, anyway... a strange one armed bandit. Enough of my laments.
The merchant prince steadies himself, as if about to blurt some blasphemy... steels himself. A mortal would have taken a deep breath.
Forgive me Michele. I am merely a messenger in this. The missive for your Sire is from... Talisman. And, I was directly instructed not to be subtle.
Sadir is to bring Katriana Volkov to Via Orsoline. On the western portion of this maze of a city.
If he fails to do so, all kinship between Sadir and Talisman, shall be forgotten and Talisman shall hunt him down and torture him in a way that only one, as ancient as he... can devise.
Alessandro lowers his voice, as if suddenly and urgently speaking in confidence. Michele, have I been patently clear, such that there can be no misunderstanding?
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini and Alessandro Khadaji
Michele nods at the first question while listening intently.
“You have been very clear and I feared things would come to this. You see I met with Talisman not to long ago and he was more subtle so now he is angry. I do appreciate you telling me and will need to track down my sire to relay it. Before you go what do you know if Simon going missing and a one armed bandit? Did Talisman mention this? “
It seems that Michele is more interested in Simon and the one armed man then the potential issue his sire is in as his face betrays him when they were mentioned.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
The Mausoleum -
"Thank you for message." Lorenzo says to the mortal servant.
"I suppose I will add a meeting with the Toreador to my list id things to do tomorrow. Rest well, Lydia. I will see you when the sun sets."
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".
"Please, think little of it, it is but the decent thing to do. but I do seek Doctor Cappelli or Lord Benne tomorrow night on another matter. So if one would make time for me tommorow, I would be most grateful."
And he inclines his head. It would appear he will not be able to see either tonight. A pity
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
I suppose there are several parties looking for Simon, some might even be concerned. I missed an opportunity to discuss matters with him, he send interesting.
The name Haji was brought to my attention, but although Middle Eastern... no one I know fits.
Would you mind letting me know if you come across such an individual? Maybe we can help each other. You have been most gracious, thank you.
If there is nothing else, Alessandro bows and takes his leave.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini and Alessandro Khadaji
“I have been asked by before about this one armed Haji before. If I find him would you like me to give him a message in return for a favor in kind? “
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Probably sounds strange coming from a merchant, but... the world has become a bit too transactional. Tell me if you wish, and trust me on my honor. No tally of favors.
I find it's the only way to build lasting relationships. If there is something I can help you with, simply let me know. You choose, when the time comes. No ties or tethers.
And, I believe Talisman wishes his message delivered tonight, before any meetings of this newly formed committee.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Mausoleum -
"I shall deliver the message for you", replies the gaunt man gravely as he assists Dominic inside and locks the door, several times! Behind him.
Your Gondola ride home is uneventful. You pass by some Mortals who are all grouped together. It seems only the Cainites walk alone these nights. Some wear the colors of the Doge, others colors of other Noble families. It seems battle lines are being drawn or at least political statements are being made!
You arrive home to your wife and Violetta chatting your Sire now gone from the City. Violetta smiles warmly at you, "Ranerius. Tomorrow night we shall receive the call from the Conclave that I am to be picked as the Justicar to Clan Toreador. By 11 PM I will need you at the Princes isle to receive the message. Loiter on the island but do not enter, when you hear the news, return here to me that I may attempt to attend the Meeting before it ends". She then marches up to her room assuming there is no response to be had as her request was quite clear.
Your wife heads up with you to bed, listening to the news of the day while comforting you in a way only a wife should...
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini and Alessandro Khadaji
Michele bows slightly, “ understood. I shall deliver the message. Thank you.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini
After Alessandro leaves Michele grabs one of the herd and takes her to his room to feed quickly. After dismissing her Michele sits on the floor closing his eyes and steadies his thoughts. When ready Michele pictures his sire in his mind and asks him to come to him hoping he is not interrupting anything gravely important.
Summon
Charisma + Subterfuge diff 5
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Perhaps five minutes after sending out his "call" Sadir opens the door to Michele's room, "I certainly hope this is important Childe". Your Sire growls.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
You wait in the shadows across the way for several minutes hoping to catch a glimpse of the Setite coming back to his Haven. After waiting as long as you can, when he is nowhere in sight, you decide that your message was sent to the proper party to locate Sadir and head home to hide from the rays of the sun.
Alyssa is already abed, sleeping deeply, she does not even stir when you come abed. No surprise! That was as close to catching the sun as you have ever come!
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini
“Talisman sent the Ventrue Alessandro here looking for you to give you a message.
He was directly instructed not to be subtle.
He said that Sadir is to bring Katriana Volkov to Via Orsoline. On the western portion of this maze of a city.
If he fails to do so, all kinship between Sadir and Talisman, shall be forgotten and Talisman shall hunt him down and torture him in a way that only one, as ancient as he... can devise.
Not knowing what your plans were for the morrow I decided to do my best to get you the message tonight.”
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Sadis sits on your bed, you see sadness on his face once you complete your relay of the message. Shocking for you to see him this way, as if her is not really himself, "So it comes to this then? After these long centuries together?!
He will destroy himself, no matter the name or the flesh that he wears.
I wonder, do I sacrifice myself for him? If we kill her we may just set that wretched soul free once more then he might find her again. If I bring her to him, her Embrace could cause even more harm!
Tell me Childe, what should we, I, do? The options before me are thus, kill Katriana, Embrace her, or bring her as Michael bids still alive...
All have their pitfalls you see. For the first time, well, in a long time, since I cut that damned ancient Serpents head off and he did not die! I am at a loss of what to do..."
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini
Michele will put his hand on his sire's shoulder then step back.
"Perhaps there is a 4th way? I know he is ancient but can we can call in others to our aid to put him at rest? Or do we ask the fleshcrafters to make someone look like her to give us a moment when he is off guard? There must be another way. Radek- what powers does he hold? We must not give up. Our bloodline is not cursed!"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto -
Sadir shakes his head, "I would sooner throw you into a volcano than kill him my Childe.
Though I do appreciate your sentiments.
Cursed? I fear we are indeed cursed.
Regardless, I shall bring her to the Ancient myself. You will attend the first meeting of the Camarilla and explain to Narses that I have loose ends to tie with K'haytall. That will keep his mouth shut.
The meeting will not start until 10 pm, that will give you time to deal with whatever other matters you must address early tomorrow evening.
Unless you have another problem that you wish to bring to my attention before we retreat from the accursed sun?"
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto - Michele Querini
With his sire’s comments Michele starts to realizes how complicated this matter is.
Michele puts his arm on his sire’s shoulder and looks at him intently. “I may not agree but it is not my place to question you particularly on this. Fare well and I do hope to see you again.”
With that I take my leave to my room.
Venice by Day - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
The plan evolves, Francois has identified the Via Orsoline, on the western portion of this maze of a city, as a good spot for the ambush.
"It has a triangulation of buildings access to the sea and to the canals. It is also not often patrolled by the security of the Doge. In addition, no homes just businesses are there so no Mortals to be injured, get in our way, or run for the authorities".
Sergei nods, "I will be on the ground as I need to be. Francois, you will bring the Fiend via the canal. The rest of you, will post on top of the buildings with your crossbows and rain down wooden bolts upon him. Once he is staked, we will be safe.
Do you believe he will bring my sister, do you know if he has her?"
Francois shakes his head, "I am not sure but we can question him once we have him".
Wilhelm and Brice nod in agreement to being atop the buildings but their faces darken when Sergei steers the conversation once more to his sister.
“Shall Baldemar and I ascend the rooftops as well, or do you want us at street level?”
Venice by Day - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
"If neither of you will drink the blood of this fiend I would recommend you stay on the roof. These creatures are fast and strong and with no edge at all, you may be injured or killed in the melee".
Baldemar frowns, "I will not partake in such vile acts. I will be on the roof though I am not the best shot".
Wilhelm chimes in, "We should have our weapons blessed by the Priests no? I believe they may have the Gift".
Brice nods in agreement, "Are we sure that is a good idea? They want us to be out tomorrow night aiding them in their raids no?"
"No", retorts Sergei, "we are to invade the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto at daylight on April 1. There are Fiends there to be captured".
Geoffroi frowns as well
What have I gotten involved in here?
“I concur with Baldemar. Although I am more adept at swordplay, I will not sully myself with this creature’s blood. I will be on the roof”
He casts back to that enigmatic meeting with the being known as Talisman. He has an urge to find him and warn him of this action. He’s not sure why this should be, except that Sergei strikes him as more a villain than the blood-drinking fiend. A very human monster
He looks at Sergei.
“Shall we meet here on the First?”
Venice by Day - Sunday March 30, 1309
Way of Kings Inn -
Sergei shakes his head, "No, tomorrow night, Sunday the 31st. We will meet here before sundown. Then head out to scout the location more fully before taking our places as per the plan.
The next morning, the first, by Day we shall assault the San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca Ca' Favretto. Assuming we are alive as there are Fiends there to be captured as well. It will be a good night and day. With the help of the Church we shall capture and bring to light the existence of these Fiends. I shall have vengeance for my family!"
Brice interjects, "In the meantime, we shall sharpen bolts and stakes as we will need them".
Baldemar clears his throat, "Why are we not striking the morning of the first against this Petrankov?"
Francois responds, "He did not tell me where his Haven lies nor would I deign to ask him, that would make him suspicious of my intentions. I wish only to rescue Katriana and destroy this Monster. It is what I agreed to do once I joined with the Volkov's back in Paris. This ambush is our best way".
"Why not just follow him to his lair then?" retorts Baldemar.
Wilhelm shakes his head, "They have ways to hide when they move to such locations they hide where they sleep even from their own kind. It is hard to track them to their own lairs..."
Geoffroi nods
“Very well. We shall meet tomorrow at sundown here. I hope that Blessed Jesù will smile upon us”
He gets up and heads out into the day.
When they have gotten far enough away from the building he stops and leans into Baldemar
“My friend, I have certain errands that I originally cane to this city to undertake before I became involved in this madness. I must make sure my interests are secure, especially now that we face a possibility of death. I will need most of today and possibly this evening to finish my business. Can I meet you tomorrow morning? You name the place and I shall be there. “
Geoffroi strikes his forehead
“By all the saints! I had forgotten our appointment with that rogue Il Corvo and his Anglais witch tonight. I guess we should meet at 8pm by the shadow of the Doge’s palace”
Venice by Day - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Inn -
Baldemar nods, "Very well, meet me at the Teutonic Stronghold then we shall journey together to meet with this Il Corvo and his Sorceress. Come by nightfall if you can, I do not think either of us should walk this night alone..."
Geoffroi claps Baldemar’s hand
“Be careful my friend. Go rest now. I shall seek you out just after sunset. If for some reason I do not appear, I would suggest you go to Volkov and his men. I have my doubts about their purpose, but there is safety in numbers. May Jesù watch over you.”
Geoffroi returns to his lodgings and sleeps. As night approaches, he awakes and makes his way to the house where he met Talisman before
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Talisman's Creepy Manse -
You head inside and find that the place is occupied by a set of extremely good looking men who are the spitting image of one another.
Both frown at you and place their hands on rapiers at their belts. "You are trespassing Sir Knight". "State your business Sir Knight".
Geoffroi tenses, but remains calm
“I come with news for the gentleman who calls himself Talisman. Is he available?”
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Talisman's Creepy Manse -
The two men close their eyes and when they re-open all that remains is their whites.
"Ah Sir Clairvaux. What a pleasant surprise for you to visit me once more. What do you wish to see me about?"
Talisman's voice is amplified by the voices of the two men though it does not sound exactly as he does. The effect is a bit unsettling.
Geoffroi is unsettled by this arcane show , but he masters himself and talks with the possessed twins
“Although with your powers you might be already aware of the situation that unfolds, I thought it would be wise to alert you that Volkov plans to face a vampire named Petrankov the next evening hence. He plans to use the blood of a vampire he holds in gruesome captivity to bolster he and his men’s power. He believes that his sister will be with this Petrankov. “
Geoffroi outlines the plan as it was explained to him
“I and my companion Sir Baldemar will be on the roof with crossbows, among others. We declined Volkov’s offer of blood”
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Talisman's Creepy Manse -
The voices respond in tandem once more, "It is good that you declined the offer for the Blood of that foul thing that Volkov has captured in the most of my kind.
You are indeed correct that I am aware of this development. Still, it is good that you have confirmed that which I already know.
One favor is worth another. Is there anything you wish of me my friend?"
Geoffroi ponders then speaks
“In out errands for Volkov, we came across another vampire, a Saracen named Alessandro Khadaji. He attempted to pass as a mortal, but i discerned his true nature. He sent a friend of his named Il Corvo to assist my companion Baldemar with his memory loss. We are meeting him tonight, and he is taking us to meet a supposed sorceress from England naked Fitz Gilbert who can cure Baldemar’s condition. I would know if this is some elaborate trap, or whether this sorceress can do what she claims.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Talisman's Creepy Manse -
"Khadijah is known to me though this Il Corvo and his Sorceress are not.
Most of my kind are treacherous. Khadijah though is more Human than most and his Honor and Integrity are rare for one of my kind. Perhaps this is because he is recently made. Regardless, he will not betray you. At least not based upon my experience with him
If this Sorceress is a woman I know of her and I am not sure how trust worthy she is. Fanchon is her name, I am surprised that she is willing to do him any favors".
Geoffroi nods
“Thank you for the information. I must go meet Baldemar by the Doge’s palace. When you have achieved your objectives, I hope to learn more about you and your kind”
He bows towards the unsettling twins and heads out to Baldemar
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Doge's Palace -
Geoffroi heads into the night towards the Doge's palace.
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Doge's Palace -
You spot the Doge's security forces grab at someone walking along armed and forcibly disarm the man.
If you continue, you will likely lose your weapon or get into a fight.
Geoffroi tries to melt into the shadows, avoiding the light and using his cloak to conceal his weaponry
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Doge's Palace -
You manage to use their distraction in dealing with this man, to bypass their post.
In the area in front of the Doge's Palace it is clear that the Doge has set some men as guards beyond just these, not so many as to make it appear that they are an army but enough to dissuade all but the largest groups to start trouble.
Tensions are certainly running high this night. You see Baldemar looking grim, his weapon is not at his side. He rushes over to you as you briefly step from the shadows.
"My friend. I am glad to see you are doing well. I had to hide my Blade before I entered this area, lest these Heathens seize it.
How long do we wait for our contact? I have to wonder if he will even show under these circumstances..."
Geoffroi nods, keeping his blade hidden in the folds of his cloak
“We shall give them a few moments to appear, and if they do not, then we retire for the evening and await tomorrow’s date with destiny “
Venice by Night - Sunday March 30, 1309
Outside the Doge's Palace -
You and Baldemar wait for some time but never see them appear, likely the large presence of so many of the Doge's men has kept them away.
Baldemar agrees that retiring and praying for the night and the next day would be the wisest course of action...