Dark Ages Vampire - Bloodlines (Inactive)

Game Master Dennis Harry

Bloodlines is a continuation of the now defunct table top Dark Ages Vampire game wherein the PC's have created lineal descendants throughout the ages.

Attendees seeking a seat or have a seat in the Inner Circle:

Assamite - Lord Bajazet al Nasir.

Brujah – Lady Meridie de Chancie, Lord Criatas, “Dark”Selena, Robin Leeland.

Cappadocian – Lord Benne.

Gangrel – Milov Petrankov.

Lasombra - Prince Narses the Archbishop of Nod

Malkavian – Antione le Fanu, Lutz von Hohenzollern.

Nosferatu – Cristo Petradon, Simon.

Salubri – Brian Stack.

Setites – Sadir.

Toreador – Rafael de Corazon, Francois Villon, Helene la Jouste.

Tremere - Radek, Mistress Fanchon.

Tzimisce – Myca Vykos.

Ventrue – Alyssa Gilbert, Lady Jadviga Almanov, Lanzo von Saschen, Prince Alexander.

Remember - only those listed get votes. Of course influencing their Childer can go a long way to getting a vote.

Social Combat:

Let me first thank Sir Dunstan and his excellent Game of Thrones campaign as the inspiration for this rules tweak. A shout out to Vitaliano who also does an excellent job as a player in that campaign.

Game of Thrones has a Social Combat system that, while not translatable directly, I used as inspiration for this campaign.

This is a proposed rules set and I am more than happy to hear feedback from Players before I implement it in full.

Roleplaying is still required to get your point across. However, I think a mechanical system could be beneficial for this scenario, a scenario quite unlike anything I have ever done in a Vampire game before.

Making My Case

To convince a “voter” to side with your Sire, you may roll the following set of Attributes and Abilities:

1. Against someone who is clearly NOT in your favor --- Manipulation+Subterfuge+Politics
2. Against someone who is NEUTRAL – Charisma+Expression+Politics

The difficulty of all rolls is that Cainites Willpower. You will need to score as many successes as they have Willpower to win the contest. Once you engage the voter, you will only have three rounds to make your case and can only attempt do so one time per night.

If you have Presence – Awe or Enrancement, you may attempt to use these powers in conjunction with the above roll. Each success utilizing that Discipline gives you one more success on your total roll.

Beware, failing in using Presence in Elysium can lead to Sanctions by Thomas Brexiano.

Also beware, Cainites may try to turn this system around on you…

But What if Someone Else Tries This on a Voter I just Brought to my Side?

Amount of successes is a key factor here, you will want to score as many success as you can to ensure that a rival does not try to take that vote from you!

Certain NPC’s already believe that others are in their favor and would never change their votes. Those will be the toughest cookies to break.

Note this system cannot be used on:

Your In-Clan rivals, no amount of sweet talking or bribes will change their minds they all want this position badly.

Prince Narses, he simply will not entertain such discourse. Of course, this does not mean you cannot try to get into the ears of one of his Childer to have them speak with him…

Discerning My Quarry’s Intent

How can I tell if someone is for or against me despite what they are saying?

Make a Perception+Empathy+Politics roll.

The difficulty is 10, less that Cainites Humanity score. Those closer to the Beast are much harder to read. For every Century over 300 years that Cainite has lived, the DC will be increased by 1, topping out at 10, as these Cainites have well and truly mastered this game to have existed for so long in the first place.

Once you engage the voter, you will only have three rounds to ferret out their intent and can only attempt do so one time per night. You will need to score as many successes as they have Willpower to ascertain their intent.

If you have Auspex – Read the Soul or Invade the Mind, you may attempt to use these powers in conjunction with the above roll. Each success utilizing that Discipline gives you one more success on your total roll.

How else can I make my case?

The use of Presence, while frowned upon, is much less cause for censure than using Dominate. Dominate does not work on a Cainite whose blood is closer to Caine than your own. If you seek to use Dominate to convince a voter (or perhaps one of the Childer?) to vote for your Sire, it would be best used elsewhere in the city.

Boons – the boon system of quid pro quo can also be used to gain votes. You will need to offer something of course that that voter does not have or cannot get from another candidate.

Eliminate my rivals. This one is obvious though failure to do so without detection may subject YOU to the Final Death!


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Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Gunther Thesing

Fiona aids you in getting dressed and she mentions how she and Jordan met with an exotic looking woman who provided them with the means to buy her lovely dress. You pause for a moment and realize that the dress she was wearing was indeed of greater quality than anything Fiona has weaved before and with a fabric she has never handled much less worked with before.

"Jordan invited the girl to the event tonight, I am not sure who she is but we should keep an eye on her, these foreign woman can be trouble!"

From downstairs Jordan shouts, "Hurry we have to go!"

Fiona rushes you out of the room half-dressed, "We can finish you on the way dear".


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

Andrew and Xing arrive at the appointed meeting place ten minutes early, Andrew gets long looks because of his open wearing of steel while Xing gets long looks for other reasons.

Gunther as you and your girls head out the front door you see a man and a woman in a beautiful red dress standing not far from the entrance of Greetings. Jordan waves to her, "Over here!"

Gunther, the woman is exotic looking, beautiful in her own way but your daughter outshines her in that dress. The man next to her also wears a dress of some kind along with a large sword, a shocking display of a weapon considering the Doge's current ban on carrying weapons freely. Based on his dress he would appear to be from the British Isles.

Gunther:
You recognize this man as the Scotsman who entered Greeting several nights ago, you never had a chance to interact with him though.

Andrew and Xing the young girl in the blue and green dress is simply stunning. Her mother looks beautiful as well and the resemblance is certainly noticeable. The man with them has a large scar across his face. He is of eastern European descent and he is certainly one of the largest men you have seen in the city outside of the other Scotsmen that Andrew brought with him!

Xing:
As you well remember, at the fight along the docks, you tripped that man to aid Gino in escaping from a scuffle. No way he could recognize you with different clothing and no mask of course!


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Alessandro Khadaji

Galeel nods to you, "Very well, I will make sure the food which should be hot stays hot and the food which should be cold stays cold in the meantime". The ten servants with him continue to keep themselves busy waiting for your fathers arrival.

You head out into the late day sun as the last rays shine down upon the city. The place is alive and bustling with people attending evening prayers some for likely the second time today. Tomorrow the work week will begin so for many they will be spending the time with family for a quiet dinner. You smile hoping that your mother is also along on this trip, you would love to see her, it has been a while since they have both come to Venice to be with you.

You arrive at the docks where Khadahi Shipping has its merchants land to load and unload Venetian wares. The ship from your friend the Captain is still here but the other dock is empty, your father's ship has not arrived. The runner you sent for is on the edge of the dock with a spyglass staring at the same spot in the water and not scanning the horizon.

What do you do?


Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

Andrew and Xing move forward to the young lady who greeted Xing...

"Friend o yours?"


Max Blood Pool/Current = 20/10

Gunther, Andrew and Xing

Xing Shi smiles brightly at Jordan and bows slightly toward her family.

"Jordan you look so beautiful! Let me introduce to you to my escort Lord Andrew the Hardy. This must be your father."

Xing moves toward him a bit holding out her hand nd smiles lightly at him.

"It is a pleasure to meet you senior, your wife and daughter are very lovely and we are very excited to be attending Jordan's wedding."


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

Jordan laughs, "I am not getting married yet, just a party where I think he will announce our betrothal".


Ventrue | Gen 7 | Blood 20/20

Calling to the runner... Alessandro approaches. Mahmood, what news?


Max Blood Pool/Current = 20/10

Gunter, Andrew & Xing

"Apologize, I misunderstood. Well I'm sure it will be a beautiful party regardless."


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Alessandro Khadaji

Mahmood nearly jumps off of the dock he is so startled at your appearance behind him. "The ship has stopped Master Khadaji, it is in the water nearby but had dropped anchor about twenty minutes ago. I don't see any signs of distress. Do you wish to take a look?" He holds the spyglass out to you.


Ventrue | Gen 7 | Blood 20/20

Alessandro accepts the spyglass. Please, go to that ship... See if the captain is there.

The young merchant prince looks through the spyglass.


5th Generation Cappadocian | Bloodpool: 29/40 | Willpower: 8/8

Lorenzo pauses for a moment before answering the priest, "No Father, I do not believe I will. To do so would be disingenuous at best. I am afraid I have still not made my peace with God after he took Constancia away from me. Perhaps another time." he says leaving the confessional.

"Thank you for your time and the information, Father Communilazi."


5th Generation Setite| Bloodpool 40/19|

Storyteller Shadow:
yes I did.


" yes I still wish to help out. I trust our business was fruitful last time we met. "
michael looks at brice directly in his eyes. All jovial manner left his face


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Alessandro Khadaji

Mahmood heads to the ship and boards yelling for the Captain.

As you look out to the sea you do see a ship, whether it is the one your father is on you do not know though the colors include those of Khadaji Trading they also include a coat of arms unfamiliar to you. You can see figures milling about on the deck but not in enough detail to recognize if anyone from your fathers entourage is on board.

Mahmood comes back a few minutes later, "The Captain is in a meeting, his first mate said that 'you would know what he is doing now as he does it by your request'. Does that mean anything to you Master Khadaji?"


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Father Communilazi sighs, "Well at the least I hope to see you with greater frequency my son. I will pray for your immortal soul".

What do you do?


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

ST Shadow ONLY:
Remember to set up scene where Cappelli's bodyguard appears!


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Michael Santo

Brice smiles, "Yes it does bear fruit. Tell me is your back in good shape?"

Francois chuckles at the comment.


5th Generation Cappadocian | Bloodpool: 29/40 | Willpower: 8/8

Lorenzo will return to his home.


Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

"Aye tis a fine reason fer a party an glad tidings be rare in tha world."

"Would you smoke some pipeweed wit me in honor o yer comin day?"

Andrew puts some pipeweed into his pipe, thinking to smoke some while still out of doors.....


Ventrue | Gen 7 | Blood 20/20

Alessandro considers swimming out.


Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

"It is not something I ordinarily partake in, but I s'pose since this is a special occassion I believe I will."


Max Blood Pool/Current = 20/10

Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

Xing watches the 2 men interact and mingles with the girls as they start to head out.

"So tell me what is this man like you wish to be wed to? I do not believe I have had the pleasure to meet him in this city yet."


michael shakes his head grinning from the previous nights encounter. Sticking out his chest trying to look far more stronger than he really is
"I was built for this kind of work" bluffing of course

the mind of michael:
although the event was fast pace, and frightening it still has a rush to it a quite enjoyable thrill. Dont know if it was the blood coursing through me which stimulated the hunt or just breaking out of this quite routined life but either way I like it


Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

@Xing
"Be aware, forget not tha murderer."

@Gunther
"I have a spare pipe fer yer use."
Loads a pipe and passes it to Gunther.....

Once the pipes are lit Andrew offers a toast of sorts

"To yer health an welfare."


Andrew the Hardy, Lord of Moray wrote:

Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

Loads a pipe and passes it to Gunther.....

Once the pipes are lit Andrew offers a toast of sorts

"To yer health an welfare."

Gunther raises the pipe towards Andrew, joining in his toast.

"And to yours as well, friend."


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Lorenzo Cappelli

You enter your home deep in thought about the latest bit of news the good Father brought to you. The strike of flint and steel across the room catches you off guard and a candle is lit and placed on a side table by a shadowy figure.

"Good evening Doctor. Your lock needs improving, so easy to pick. This home also needs less shadows in the front room at the very least, too many places for a na'er do well to hide, don't you agree?"

You glance up at the man talking, he is 6'3" and very thin. His skin is dark not quite the skin of a Moor but certainly he has Moorish blood in him. The man is not taking an aggressive stance but he is in your home without your permission and you have never seen him before in your life!


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Alessandro Khadaji

Mahmood interrupts your thoughts, "I am sure they will be here soon after all they are not far off Master Khadaji".


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Gunther Thesing, Andrew the Hardy & Xing Shi

Jordan responds, "He is a member of the Great Council and an heir to a powerful family. He is handsome and brave and he treats me well. He is the most wonderful man I ever met". She pauses, "Besides you of course daddy", [b] she adds turning to look at Gunther.

Fiona clears her throat, [b] "You will meet him yourself my Lady if we ever get there".

"Yes, let's go. Can we take a Gondola to the party daddy?" asks Jordan batting her eyes ever so slightly.


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Michael Santo

"Excellent, then go get one of your Gondola's and meet us at the spot where you first met the Volkov's. There is much to do this night. BY the time you arrive there night will have fallen and we will be able to operate with impunity", says Brice.

Francois stifles a yawn, "Let's hope tyhis goes smooth, I need some sleep. Have work in the morning you know" he says grinning.


5th Generation Cappadocian | Bloodpool: 29/40 | Willpower: 8/8

Seeing the Moorish man, Lorenzo chokes back his anger toward the latest intruder and lets out a sigh, relieved that it is not Volkov this time.

Lorenzo thinks to himself before speaking, I hope this is one of the bodyguards Brexiano had promised...

Noting the Moorish man's non-agressive posture Lorenzo cautiously says, "Good evening, it seems your observations about my home are quite correct. Who are you, and why are you here?"


Max Blood Pool/Current = 20/10

Xing & Gunther & Andrew

Xing nods to Fiona and looks to Andrew and Gunther.

"Men and their pipes" she shakes her head a bit.


Xing & Gunther & Andrew

"Tha lady dost not approve, perhaps we should add brandy tah tha consumption an truely earn her ire!"


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Lorenzo Cappelli

The man bows, "First let me offer my most humble apologies for this intrusion. It is my own ego which drives me, the need for others to perceive me as invaluable. So you see by demonstrating areas where you lack I am able to build myself in your eyes. At least that is what Brexiano tells me that I do". He grins, "But then Brexiano is never one to hold back his opinions. I am Moses and I am here to honor the promise made by the Les Amici Nocti. Know that if you perish, it will only be because I am already dead".


5th Generation Cappadocian | Bloodpool: 29/40 | Willpower: 8/8

His suspicions confirmed, Lorenzo is a bit more at ease. "Well for both of our sakes, let us hope it does not come to that."


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Lorenzo Cappelli

"As we will be spending some time together over the coming weeks tell me, is there any threat which has been specifically centered on you? I find this whole request quite odd, you are certainly not one that fits the mold of people that I generally, watch over".


Ventrue | Gen 7 | Blood 20/20

Swimmable?


"will you brief me more on the situation this time, id like to know what we are doing exactly and why vs just going with the flow" michael stares brice not budging until he gets an approving answer


Andrew the Hardy, Lord of Moray wrote:

Xing & Gunther & Andrew

"Tha lady dost not approve, perhaps we should add brandy tah tha consumption an truely earn her ire!"

"Now yer talkin, friend.

Gunther bellows out a hearty laugh and playfully smacks his new comrade on the shoulder, nearly causing him to lose his step.


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Alessandro Khadaji

Yes, if the ship was burning and you had no other choice. To go from here to there would be risky for a number of reasons.


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Michael Santo

Francois smiles, "We are retrieving evidence".

Brice seems to ponder the statement for a moment, "Yes, that is actually a very accurate description of what we are doing".


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Xing & Gunther & Andrew

Jordan huffs, "We need to go, I can't be late!"


Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Xing & Gunther & Andrew

"Indeed you can scarce afford tah be late."


Ventrue | Gen 7 | Blood 20/20

Please ask the Captain if he'd appreciate my presence. I happen to be here.


5th Generation Cappadocian | Bloodpool: 29/40 | Willpower: 8/8

"Other than a self-proclaimed hunter, named Sergei Volkov, none that I am aware of."


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Xing & Gunther & Andrew

You all get on board two Gondola's as Jordan fears capsizing a single Gondola with all on board at the same time.

You arrive at the party just as night falls....

Will update again when night falls :-). Feel free to converse while on the Gondola ride though.


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Alessandro Khadaji

Mahmood rushes back to the ship and just as quickly comes back, "The first mate said, welcome aboard".

Mahmood takes back his spyglass, "I will let you know if the ship begins to close on the city".


Shadow's Status

Venice by Dusk - Sunday March 8, 1309

Lorenzo Cappelli

Moses shakes his head, "The worst, they almost always hunt in packs and they can operate by day and by night. They love to get their hands on Ghouls for certain. Does he know where you live?"


5th Generation Cappadocian | Bloodpool: 29/40 | Willpower: 8/8

"Ghouls?" Lorenzo asks, familiar with folklore but perhaps not what Moses speaks of.

"Unfortunately, he does know where my home is. In fact I feared that you were Sergei, as he has broken into my home and awaited my return before."


Ventrue | Gen 7 | Blood 20/20

Anxiously, Alessandro walks up the plank trying to keep his mind off his father's vessel. These men need confidence, someone to believe in. Not a boy.


Michael shakes his head folding his arms. "I am still game for the task but your description is very vague. " michael begins to pace back and fourth. Pondering his options. It leaves only more questions to be had. It seems you still do not trust me enough to fill me in on your endeavor yet I stand risking a great deal Trying to help. I dont know you grand scheme of things but you could at least tell me what it is I am doing and why. " Michael stops moving around grounding his nerves. "I am a native to this city and knowing the ins and out of this city is my business. I may be able to grant valuable insight and alternative solutions to assist if you gave me more to go by "[I] michael pauses to guage their reaction

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