Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
the Venetian Streets -
Initiative -
Andrew - 1d10+6
Thugs (4) - 1d10+4
Geoffroi - 1d10+5
Geoffroi feels time seem to slow. It feels like the way battles often do, but even more so. The thugs seem to almost freeze in place
His first slice is well struck, but his new speed plays his senses foul on the second
La Serenata Nottura, Venice
Onfroi steps in not knowing the mortal at all and says I am Onfroi of the city guard as you can see my uniform and I must speak to Ranerius alone. I have an urgent message
"Let me handle this, my wife" He motions to her then approaches the guard captain. "This is not a good time, signore."
Venice, Narses Elysium
Bernardo says hunters have struck the city, taking some nun and also striking the masoleum and spoke in detail of striking more of the city before leaving my ear shot. I am sure that many kindred were attacked yesterday. I am sure there is much profit in it
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
the Venetian Streets -
Geoffroi's first swing hits the mark - Damage
Soak Thug 2 - Takes 2 damage.
Short Blades - DC 6 Dmg +2.
Thug 1 vs Andrew - 1/2 Dmg.
Thug 2 vs Geoffroi - HIT
Thug 3 vs Andrew - 1/2 Dmg.
Thug 4 vs Geoffroi - MISS
Thug 1 - 1/2 Dmg - 1
Thug 2 - Full Dmg - 4
Thus 3 - 1/2 Dmg - 1
Andrew Soak #1 -
Andrew Soak #2 -
The strike injures but does not cripple the foe and a follow up swing misses its mark.
The thugs strike back. Andrew is struck twice, both hits are glancing blows that the Scotsman brushes off.
The other two attack Geoffroi, the one standing behind somehow misses despite having full opportunity to hit. The one in front though, lands a solid blow.
---
Suddenly Andrew moves with a bit more spring in his step and he swings at both foes.
Split Dice pool -
Melee Attack vs #1 - HIT 1/2
Melee Attack vs #3 - MISS
Damage - 5 damage.
Andrew's first attack injures his primary foe, and the man's keg is seriously cut. He cries out in pain and stumbles a bit backwards.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Prince Narses Elysium -
Khay'tall sighs and closes in on you, "Hunters? That is your great secret? My spies already informed me of this. One should always have Mortal eyes by day Bernardo.
It was a matter of time I feared and why I never stayed in the lodgings reserved for us. Too public. I wonder if the targets somehow crossed Narses and so he eliminated them?
Still, I will cloak you while we enter Court for that was a secret you thought worth sharing even if I already knew it.
No what I wish to know is who you committed Amaranth upon and why you have convinced yourself that you were forced to do it, that is a secret I should love to hear..."
Venice by night, Narses Elysium
Bernardo looks at Khay'tall and finally says simply were you at the fall of Constantinople?
Bernardo leans into Khay'tall and whispers into his ear Narses is dead. He was killed by enemies in a tavern last night Bernardo describes them and the names they used in front of him.
after he fell I took Narses from the tavern and ran as fast as I could with his inert but still living form. Those pursuing caught me and I was unable to save him, but I did take one of those there with me before Narses was killed, taking that enemy with my teeth while doing my best to stop them from their prize
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe - Lorenzo Cappelli, Michele Querini, & Vitaliano da Riva
Now you are ignoring my 6 that I rolled ;)
I got a 2,9,10,and 6
“He is of Middle Eastern descent perhaps or from the Nile. I hope he had not gotten far so you can meet him and do what you must. “
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
the Former Prince Narses Elysium -
Khay'tall nods, "I see.
So, Narses has met his end at the hands of his ancient rival.
The one with Belisarius was Shabah, his Assamite consort. I had thought them both perished in the fires of the so called, Fourth Crusade.
Once I dwelt in Constantinople, the Snake in Michael's Eden. As it became clear that he could not protect me from mine own enemies any longer, I faked my own death and fled to the East having only recently returned to the west.
His death though creates great opportunities, I have an ally who will journey here. We were to scan the great cities of the west to settle in one. Narses power made such a thing here nigh unthinkable. But now. Now. With Narses having met the Final Death. With Talisman out of the city, the path is open to great possibilities.
Tell me, Bernardo. Are you resident in this city? I do not remember seeing you at any of the Conclaves but then few residents did attend.
By the way, which did you consume, Belisarius or Shabah?"
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe -
The Cardinal sighs, "My Son. We will try. Unfortunately, because of the actions of the Pope our own influence is limited within the city. We would have hoped to organize with the Doge's men but that is not possible at this time.
If he is here, we will do our best to find him.
Tell me, what others of your kind are here in the city? What Houses or Families do they belong to? What places do they haunt?"
Venice La Serenata Notturna
Onfroi looks Ranerius up and down a bit and says quietly there is great danger in the streets for associates of ours. Two of the other inns where many guests of the city were staying were attacked by significant forces. Many of those associates are missing now.
Venice La Serenata Notturna
Onfroi looks Ranerius up and down a bit and says quietly there is great danger in the streets for associates of ours. Two of the other inns where many guests of the city were staying were attacked by significant forces. Many of those associates are missing now.
"Associates?" Realization, "My wife. Wait but a few minutes longer. I must talk to this man.." And he guides Onfroi furhter back and repeats, just for his ears, "Associates?"
Venice, La Serenata Notturna
it seems ar least two inns were attacked by holy knights one of whom could see through my powers and reveal them. Many kindred are missing and those who attacked me said they were killing my kind. If they are on the streets you are in danger, however, we may turn this to opportunity and be able to buy up many of the inns of Venice if we hurry
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe - Lorenzo Cappelli, Michele Querini, & Vitaliano da Riva
“if only I could bring him here myself to face you. I have many questions for him. There are several factions of our kind but being so new to this all things were a blur. I feel weak and tired. They have infiltrated different levels of society and perhaps even the Doge’s most fervent supporters the Dandolo’s. Perhaps that is why he excommunicated us.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
The Lido -
While Franz was busy pondering the information he learned about the events of last night, and what business opportunities these new developments could bring, he was interrupted by knocking at the main door.
Thinking back to the feeding moments ago, he sighs, then accelerates his steps answering: "I will be right with you" - why could not everything be as simple...
Franz rushes down the stairs and comes to his servants aid, trying to understand what is going on as he approaches the scene.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe -
"What is his name my friend? If we know that we may be able to penetrate his web of deceit.
I see, so the names of these factions are unknown to you?"
He pauses and sighs, "Yes, we have hard that the penetration into the aristocracy has been rampant. Just the Dandolo's or other families as well?"
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
The Lido -
As you reach the front door, your Manservant looks frazzled. Standing before him is a short figure, perhaps no more than a teen-age boy. He wears a coat that is too long for his arms and his legs and drags behind him a wet sopping mess. The back of the jacket covers his face but form what you can see, it is badly burnt. His eyes are alight with a soft red glow. He turns to the Mortal and in a commanding but somewhat feeble voice he states, "LEAVE US. GATHER THE OTHERS HERE, BRING THEM TO A SINGLE ROOM FOR THE NIGHT AND FORGET THAT YOU SAW ME".
He quickly begins to follow these orders.
The figure turns back to you, "Franz Albert. My apologies for this intrusion but I fear there was little other choice. In my current condition, no Mortals should take in my countenance and remember it.
Can we take a seat and discuss the events that have transpired in the past 16 hours? I would appreciate your hospitality".
Venice, La Serenata Notturna
it seems ar least two inns were attacked by holy knights one of whom could see through my powers and reveal them. Many kindred are missing and those who attacked me said they were killing my kind. If they are on the streets you are in danger, however, we may turn this to opportunity and be able to buy up many of the inns of Venice if we hurry
"Now while it's just us, let me see your true face." He asks "And I will tell you why this whole thing is putting me in a no win scenerio"
Onfroi shows his face to Ranerius swiftly and then changes back
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
The Lido -
"I have learned enough to not judge you by your looks, but you are at an advantage. I am not disinclined to grant you hospitality, but I would first know who you are." Franz Albert focuses on the soft red glow of the boys eyes, then suddenly looks at whatever the boy drags:"And who - or hopefully what - is that?
Assuming the guest is willing to provide some response, Franz will let him enter, then swiftly close the door: "I would love to discuss the recent events, but it would seem I had no time to be briefed on the details before you decided to visit. So do take a seat, and share what you know. And especially how you ended up in that situation, and if you expect trouble to follow you."
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe - Lorenzo Cappelli, Michele Querini, & Vitaliano da Riva
“ I am unsure of any other families but I have heard that even men of the cloth may be in their employ during the day. Look for men with unusual strength or speed. Perhaps they do not age as much as others. As for names I am weak and not myself trying to evade capture. Since I now require blood for sustenance and I know won’t give me any. I fear I will fade soon enough. Perhaps I can feed upon one of the wretched you have here when you are done with them. ”
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
The Lido -
The streets are empty, no one is milling about, the events of last night have all in their homes it seems contemplating the attempted coup. The figure scans the streets to ensure that no one is truly about.
He then removes the drenched coat throwing it back into the streets behind him and you see that he is indeed a teen-age boy, blackened to a crisp, under his left shoulder is a makeshift crutch. The wounds are grievous, how he still lives in beyond comprehension.
"That was an extremely valuable coat which is now quite ruined.
I am Alexander, Prince of Paris in exile, Childe of Ventrue". His introductions stops there.
He then steps within and allows you to lead him to the living room which overlooks the sea, the same one which you sat in with your Sire and Gustav planning strategies for the Conclave the last few nights. The Cainite you now share the room with is older and stronger in the blood even than the one you and Lanzo serve, Hardestadt the Elder.
"Unfortunately, I know very little save what befell me.
After taking to my own quarters, I was awakened to the sound of heavy footsteps and smashing windows in the Inn which was rented on behalf of Clan Ventrue to serve as our base of operations for the Conclave. It seems that I was too trusting with my own safety for these booted feet belonged to Inquisitors of the Church.
Once I ascertained that fact, I bid my children to rise up in my defense. My childer though strong in blood are weak in the powers of blood for their function is only to serve as my vessels. Thus, I had to find my own way out. So I took to the streets. My power to resist the sun is great. Once again, I trusted too much, for the suns rays began to bake me. I rushed to the canals of this wretched city hoping for reprieve. Luckily, they are so filthy that the sun's rays could not penetrate. For if they did, I would be no more. My own arrogance was almost my undoing. Perhaps my Childe was right..." he drifts off for a moment with a faraway look in his eyes.
"No matter. I require a place to rest and I require sustenance. I fear I shall be forced to turn your Herd for my own needs. I shall of course compensate you with proper prestation for these favors.
Then, once I am myself, we shall drag Narses from his haven and wrap his miserable shadows around his neck and behead him with them. It is clear that he perceived me as a threat and utilized these Hunters to try and destroy me. He has failed. I shall not".
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe -
"What of your own family?"
He pauses, "Unusual strength and speed, why? What gives such men away, how and why would those with prowess be more willing to be servants of these Night Fiends?"
The Knights in the background mutter, "I fear, there will be no sustenance for you here, perhaps rats if you continue to be cooperative".
Onfroi shows his face to Ranerius swiftly and then changes back
He does not wince, or at least he tries not to, but he IS grateful, and he says "Thank you my friend. Alas I'm in a bad situation. I have an invite to attend the Doge himself tonight. If I don't show, it could ruin me. If I do show, you say it endangers me. And my wife on the streets alone with madmen ready to take hostages? I knew we were considered damned, but now I'm wondering if I'm jinxed."
Venice by Night
there is only one who could see through my powers. I will go with you and watch your back and you can ask about buying more inns with the doge and I will supply funds. New places no one might suspect.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe - Lorenzo Cappelli, Michele Querini, & Vitaliano da Riva
“ My own family is untouched thankfully. These men gain the strength from taking blood from our kind. Still mortal but servants that require additional sustenance as the blood fades from them. Rats may sustain me for a while.”
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Prince Narses Elysium -
The Knight keeps his sword between the sound of your voice and himself as best he can and retorts, "If you are here than you must be one of these Night Fiends as well. If you have come to claim me for the one called Narses I shall not go down without a fight, it was an error to leave me so armed.
What have you done with Sir Geoffroi!"
He takes a defensive posture. It is clear he is a trained fighter, it is also clear that he has no clue exactly where you are or what you are capable of.
Spend the blood point and assume shadow body.
"I have come for no such thing...nor do I know anything of this Geoffroi you speak of!! Perhaps I should just leave you to your fate in this sealed tomb... starvation is an agonizing death most men do not welcome..."
Venice, Narses Elysium
Bernardo laughs and says I had no chance against those two. There were several other younger vampires there. One stakes to the wall. Another Assamite, and two others I did not know much of. I took one of those.
anyway, the information of Narses death is the greatest secret any could have and of immense value to you.
Venice by Night
there is only one who could see through my powers. I will go with you and watch your back and you can ask about buying more inns with the doge and I will supply funds. New places no one might suspect.
If he wanted me to be destroyed I'd be in pieces by now. He feels more cynical of late. As if he lost something special. He resolves himself Of course he has his own plans. Who among the sons of Caine doesn't? Onfroi is a friend. Chasting himself he admits "I thank you, my friend. if it were anyone else I would be.. perhaps unfairly cautious. We'll see if we can make your plans come true. It's the least I can do. And I thank you for your aid. I hope to aid you in return. Shall we?"
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe -
"I see. I had heard of such rumors. The Knights have an ally we believe that partakes in such foul rites.
He has not been located though the target of his attacks was burned to the ground over night.
I shall try and find you some rats.
First though I need something from you my Friend, anything, that can help us".
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Prince Narses Elysium -
The man's face hardens, "No. I would much rather die on my feet in honorable battle then slumped on my back by famine.
If this Narses has not sent you to fetch me, then how and why have you come to me?"
He looks at a point three feet from where you "stand" disembodied. Clearly, he cannot see you though his sword is still raised in defense it wavers for moments at a time when he once again raises it.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
the Former Prince Narses Elysium -
The Setite grins, his fangs and forked tongue shine in the moonlight so close to your face, "You are a poor liar but your ability to mix fact and fiction are admirable. There is hope for you, suitably trained.
The information of Narses death has value for today, perhaps even still for tomorrow. But by the day after, it shall be common knowledge.
Still, you have proven entertaining. I shall cloak your soul for the night within the walls of Elysium. If these doors ever open.
Tell me of yourself, where do you hail from and what Clan are you? I could hazard a guess but appearances can be deceiving".
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe - Lorenzo Cappelli, Michele Querini, & Vitaliano da Riva
“ What was burned to the ground? Are you speaking of Volkov? He was one that hunted our kind. “
Venice by Night
Ranerius, after my escape from sure death yesterday during the day I am a bit... Low on blood. Any chance there is any here to be had? This is the third place I have come the first two checking on my clan and now you. I have done my best to assist those I care for or have been cared for by. I was significantly burned by the sun.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Prince Narses Elysium -
The man's face hardens, "No. I would much rather die on my feet in honorable battle then slumped on my back by famine.
If this Narses has not sent you to fetch me, then how and why have you come to me?"
He looks at a point three feet from where you "stand" disembodied. Clearly, he cannot see you though his sword is still raised in defense it wavers for moments at a time when he once again raises it.
"Sheath your weapon knight...diplomacy is the only path that will save your soul this night...what is your name?"
Venice, Narses former domain
Bernardo looks at Khay'tall and says I am Bernardo of clan Gangrel and at present have no city which I call home.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
the Former Prince Narses Elysium -
"No city to call home eh?
Well, this city it appears has at least one if not more missing or slain inhabitants. Many others will flee due to the presence of these Hunters. That leaves those behind with cunning and ambition enough to seize the reigns of power.
Are you such a Cainite Bernardo of Clan Gangrel? You must as well know that you shall not be the Prince of this city but being the Prince is a title that has less value than it seems I can assure you of that".
These Ventrue consider you a peasant despite all you have achieved.
The figure sitting before you is no Ventrue. He is one that belongs to the other Clan similarly situated in the annals of power and influence. The Lasombra. The Magisters.
The one before you is older and more powerful even than the Sire of your foe. He is also a traveler and therefore will not interfere with your schemes.
Your attention suddenly is engaged in razor sharp focus as Boukephos begins to speak...
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe -
"You know of this Volkov? Sergei Volkov?"
Whether he is shocked by that knowledge or simply wishes to ignore your other question, it has not been answered, yet. Based upon his interaction with you, the Cardinal seems more disposed to treat with you favorably than with Lorenzo, your personal relationship may be all that saves you and perhaps the rest of the Cainites similarly captured.
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
La Serenata Notturna, the Night's Serenade -
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Prince Narses Elysium -
The Knight sighs heavily and sheathes his blade. He steels his visage ready for what you may do to him with his guard down as if any Mortal truly could be.
"Very well. If you wish to parley then I shall do so without armaments. As we still speak I must trust in the Lord that you are here for the sake of curiosity and not to bring evil upon my Mortal coil. Through long prayer in the Darkest of Night have I steeled myself for death.
I have seen much of it in my life but never did I envision such evil could walk on two feet. The works of the Devil must be seen to be believed. Now I am a believer perhaps too late.
I am Sir Baldemar de Frisia, hausmeister of Venice, servant of Siegfried von Feuchtwangen, Hochmeister of the Teutonic Knights.
I was to leave this place in less than a months time and journey to the west or perhaps to the north, it was not yet decided. Instead I was instructed to await the arrival of a Lord from the North. An ally of the Hochmeister.
While I cannot recall all of the events from the arrival of his emissaries forward, I now believe that this Knight, Lord Jurgen von Verdun, was no Knight at all and a servant of the Dark Lord. A Night Fiend like yourself.
There is more to my tale but I may have said more than you wished to hear.
This Narses captured me last night and holds me hostage. One of his allies took my friend hostage as well. I wish to be free. While I am loathe to bargain with one such as yourself, it seems I have no other choice. I have felt the walls of this place and they are closed in by brick and mortar, only the Dark Arts allow ingress and egress from this place I have surmised.
To be free then I must either make a bargain with the Devil or resign myself to the slow death that you spoke of, famine, no death for a warrior. Though I am ready to die, I would wish that I should die with my sword in hand, facing this damned Narses. Be he a foe of yours I offer to pledge what is left of my life to destroying him for you. Be he your ally, I offer the riches I have gathered from this Mortal realm for you to turn upon him".
He produces a key from around his neck, "This key opens a chest in my room within the Teuton Citadel here in Venice. Within there is gold though not much and the Title to my lands which is of great value. What say you?"
Venice by night, La Serenata Notturna
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
La Serenata Notturna, the Night's Serenade -
Whatever explanation Petradon gave to you was lost on you. Perhaps you took for granted that the Herd would just be there or assumed that you might not remain in the city long enough for it to matter!
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
The Lido -
As Alexander introduces himself, the first part about being a Prince in exile already gives Franz pause. When the introduction stops after Ventrue, he swallows. An empty gesture, but one his mind demanded at that point.
For but a moment, Franz sees the weak, hurt youth and considers what immense power his blood would grant him, then quickly realizes that even hurt as he was, this creature would swat him like a fly if he attempted anything.
"My apologies, Mylord - probably to keep your exile safe and secret, my own Sire did not see fit to inform me of your presence in Venice. I meant no disrespect."
Franz leads him into the living room, then listens to what Alexander has to tell. As he mentions rest and sustenance, Franz thinks quickly.
"Mylord, if the Inquisition knew where to find you, they may also know about this residence. I was only recently turned, and I do have some holdings in Venice they may not know about. You are free to rest here, but I could probably offer a few other locations that may be less comfortable, but safer, if you so wish. I understand our clan has a specific...dietary need. If you trust me with your needs, I would make sure to arrange for an ample supply of what you need to the best of my abilities."
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
The Lido -
"Your own Sire did not inform you of who I am because he is quite aware that I am a pariah in the west. Hardestadt and my own Childe colluded against me to keep me from what is rightfully mine. Even Mithras, my own Elder acted against me!
Your Sire is aware of my presence here as I sought the same position that Hardestadt won in this Conclave. Once more, lesser forces combined against me and that prize eluded me.
They were hoping that after the Conclave and my defeat I would slink back to the east. Such is not the case. No matter, I shall not hold their lack of respect against you".
Alexander shakes his head at your assertion, "I believe that this attack was reserved for me alone, why else send over a dozen at once? They knew my age and power, this was an attempt to finish me once and for all. Narses has more to gain from my death than my continued existence.
I prefer to stay here, I must grow my strength and as the only other member of our Clan here in the city, I require your succor".
He smiles at your attempt to redirect his attempt to access your Herd, "Indeed. It is rather rude of me to forget that we Ventrue have... limitations.
This is no longer a concern for me. My thirst must be slaked by an even more rare choice of vessels. Lesser Cainites.
If you do not wish me to turn your Herd then bring a few of the cleanest wretches you can find. I prefer them youthful but in this desperate time, anything shall do".
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
La Serenata Notturna, the Night's Serenade -
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
La Serenata Notturna, the Night's Serenade -
Ranerius shares what he knows with Onfroi regarding how the herds thrive "Unfortunately this whole incident has deprived me of my usual.. patrons for the evening."
Venice by night, about to go to a party uninvited
Very well I may have to hunt later then if we are pressed by time. If you do not wish to risk me with you as such then know that I will continue to observe the city and other inns for attacks and we can meet when you return and inform you of what I find Onfroi says
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
Somewhere Not Safe - Lorenzo Cappelli, Michele Querini, & Vitaliano da Riva
“Yes I know of him, his sister and some knights in his service. He is a twisted man who claims one of our kind many years ago killed his parents so he sustains his quest to find that one by drinking the blood of our kind to shake off death. What do you want of him? Perhaps we can come to an agreement if you allow me to track him down for you? You can help me regain my humanity perhaps. “
Venice by Night, Narses former domain
Florence I hear is building a third wall. No growth or power like this rests with a king but a bunch of popolo grasso, powerful merchants and bankers behind things. I wish to be such and I am not afraid to do what I must to survive and thrive Bernardo says succinctly
Venice by Night - Tuesday - April 1, 1309
La Serenata Notturna, the Night's Serenade -