VICTORY! The Coterie has successfully apprehended Sir Dunstan Fuller of Clan Brujah, the same Cainite who threw his lot in with the Mortal Inquisition. His Coterie was soundly defeated in battle though the Final Death was closer for each of the members of the Coterie than they may wish to contemplate more deeply, now or ever.
More importantly, the Coterie has leveraged the extensive Ghoul network of the former Prince Narses to oust the remaining Inquisitors from Venice. The victory over Dunstan was a double victory in that with the insight of Michele Querini, you were able to use the defeat to further reinforce that notion that these Inquisitors are in league with the same forces that attempted a coup of the Doge in the Mortal world only days prior! Once the body of Giovanni dressed in the Crusader style armor of Dunstan is used to frame these Mortals for the failed break out of Marco Querini, it should quickly accelerate their ouster if not death.
Despite the short-term victory, there is also great uncertainty. The Elders of the city have decided to squabble amongst themselves to decide who shall be the one to replace Prince Narses. Another shall rule the city that you all spent your blood protecting…
In addition, what of the Camarilla? The sect whose formation is directly responsible for the Embrace of most of the Coterie. If not for the Elders seeking to create all of you to show that they were indeed legitimizing the concerns of Neonates who have been thrown to the proverbial wolves of the Inquisition since the start of the War of the Princes, all of you would probably be Mortal still. Is your betrayal proof positive that the Sect was nothing more than a sham as claimed by Robin Leeland? Perhaps your survival in the face of such adversity is instead proof that Neonates are to be valued and not merely thrown away to save the hides of the Elders. Is this a moot question in any case as the architect for this alliance has already met the Final Death? Not to mention the fact that the Coterie was directly responsible for the death of one of the Sects “Scions” the Assamite Giovanni Dal'este. A Clan that is already at odds with much of the rest of the Cainite world for its embrace of the teachings of Muhammad?
Lurking even farther in the background is the threat of the arrival of not one but perhaps two ancient beings of great power! One of Clan Setite whose name has not yet been uttered the other of Clan Ventrue, Tiamat.
---
Presently, the Coterie arrives, after a quick meal resulting in the death of a Mortal family, and in the case of the Salubri, a few street thugs, in the Lair of Lord Bion. With them are the staked form of Sir Dunstan and the torpid (?) body of the Nosferatu Nicolo.
Both of Lord Bion’s eyebrows raise in surprise at the sight before him, ”So what staked Cainite have you brought to me this time? The other I can clearly see is a Nosferatu though not one known to me personally”.
Lorenzo speaks, addressing the ancient's question. "Lord Bion, we have successfully dealt with the traitor Dunstan Fuller and a number of his misguided allies. The bodies we bring before you are the traitor himself and Nicolo of the Nosferatu. As you are the steward of the city presently, we thought it appropriate to bring them before you."
Geoffroi bows in respect, as he would to a senior officer or nobleman
“My lord, this knight had thought to betray our kind to the Holy Church in Rome. Although he later changed his story, and claimed that he rather worked for the downfall of the elders of our kind. Personally, I trusted nothing that came from his lying mouth”
Venice - The Year of Our Lord 1309 – Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
" Lord Bion, Dunstan became powerful quickly as he consumed at least 2 others after his embrace. He is quite fast and strong. He embraced my cousin, who was held by the Doge, to use him against me and kill me to take over the Querini household."
Venice - The Year of Our Lord 1309 – Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
"It is as I predicted, Lord Bion, the frustration with those elders who do nothing has pushed SOME neonates beyond their endurance. Hence another reason we come to you, who are more involved."
A mix of message and flattery, to be fair, honesty in both meant, that the toreador hopes will demonstrate not just the coterie's value, but the merits of even 'non elders'
Venice - The Year of Our Lord 1309 – Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Alessandro remains silent as he cannot think of anything he could add that Lord Bion would care to hear. And, it's not his place.
He waits quietly, respectfully. Hands clasped before him and hood down about his shoulders.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Lord Bion awaits each of your comments, as Alessandro remains silent, he responds.
"Nicolo of the Venetian Nosferatu was a part of this Dunstan's Coterie? He is no Neonate. What other Neonates had he assembled that were pushed beyond their endurance?
What of your Embraced cousin Signore' Querini, where is this illegal Fledgling?
Indeed Signore' Bernerius, while your Coterie has been in the streets and canals fighting for Venice, your Elders have been in the few salons that remain, politicking to be Successors to the Shadow Prince, Narses. The young have fought the wars of their Elders since mankind has organized, and what are Cainites but mankind evolved into something more?
A liar Sir Knight? Let us see..."
Lord Bion closes his eyes and they remain closed for some time. After several minutes he opens them once more, "Aggrieved, yes. Confused, yes. Vengeful, undoubtedly. However, I do not find him to be a liar.
That said, he did indeed join forces with Mortal Hunters intending to slay, his Sire at least, if not every Elder he could find. He was indeed guilty of leading the Hunters to Narses Elysium and thus directly responsible for its destruction. He also sought to usurp the Querini Household a suggestion made to him by his first Childe Gunther Thesing as his original plan was to usurp House Dandolo via Thesing and it quickly became clear, that plan would be unworkable.
Sir Dunstan Fuller violated the Third, the Fifth, and the Sixth Traditions of Narses Law and intended to violate the Fifth repeatedly if given the opportunity.
He is yours to punish as you see fit as you have apprehended him and as I am no Prince to pass judgment myself. Should you wait to pass judgment, the next Prince may seek to intercede. As he was never released you may also wish to return him to his own Sire Lady Meridie, though I would surmise she fled the city already.
A moment and I shall render my thoughts on Nicolo".
He pauses once more concentrating for some time.
"His entire purpose in joining Sir Dunstan was in opposition to Onfroi the Bastard of Burgandy, who I see is not with you at this time. You were Onfroi's allies and thus became his enemies as you were the enemies of Dunstan.
Onfroi aided in ensuring victory against the dangerous Sir Dunstan and his involvement, if any, in delivering Simon unto the Final Death was while I was still torpid. Thus, the Nosferatu will have to petition the next Prince if they wish to seek a trial against Onfroi as I can only see the benefits he has provided to the city since I am become Steward.
The Nosferatu will not rest until Onfroi is either proven innocent or confesses to the crime of slaying Simon, the self proclaimed 13th apostle. I fear that this is not the end for Onfroi and violence between he and his Clan mates is far from over.
As an accomplice of Dunstan, you can also do what you wish with him, but have a care as I would believe that the Nosferatu would look unfavorably at his Final Death. Especially in light of the fact that he was captured and not slain in the heat of battle".
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Nodding solemnly Alessandro smiles, a chuckle nearly escaping his throat... fortunate that he no longer needed to breathe.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Lorenzo nods. "It was our intention to return Nicolo to his clanmates, and we will do just that. I have difficulties trusting Onfroi for similar reasons. I considered Simon a friend in the brief time I knew him, despite our differences in opinion on theological matters."
Turing his attention to his coterie, Lorenzo comments, "My opinion on the ultimate fate of Dunstan has not changed."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
"My cousin perished in the fight. Turning to Lorenzo "Mine is the same also that he should be put to the final death."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Indeed Signore' Bernerius, while your Coterie has been in the streets and canals fighting for Venice, your Elders have been in the few salons that remain, politicking to be Successors to the Shadow Prince, Narses. The young have fought the wars of their Elders since mankind has organized, and what are Cainites but mankind evolved into something more?
"Mortal elders do not grow in power with every passing year, but wither from it, thus they may send the young to war because they grow too weak to join in themselves. That cannot be said of we progeny of Cain, I do dare think. Give no room in the pipes for water to move, and a burst WILL happen in time." The Toreador says, "As for Dunstan's fate, I concur with my peers. His vengeance was beyond short sighted, and Venice is too precious a prize to risk so carelessly. I too would suggest final Death for Dunstan. "
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Andrew grimaces, "Ah say mercy.
Was his reaction no' one tha' tha' rest o' ya felt in yer bones? Deth t'e tha' ones what wronged ye?
Mayhap his reaction warrants punishment but did not many o' ye also partake in devourin' tha' blood o' those whose fate we didna'e know an now c'uld never know? Did Querini hisself no' provoke tha' combat when parley had taken place.
Ah get tha' idea, in fac' it could be said tha' Dunstan broke the First Tradition o' Domain by seekin' ta' steal yers Querini. So yeah did he break many o' the Laws o' Narses, but Narses was dead when he did.
God is mercyful, no' wrathful. Errr wickedness is o' full display here 'n now".
Lydia's eyes flicker as she turns to Andrew, "A lover of the Crucified One would seek mercy and redemption. Would he have had the same for you Lord of Moray?
I vote that my Rose eat him, his soul is for you beautiful one"
Andrew shakes his head, "Nope, yer right Lydia, Dunstan'd given me no mercy.
Tha' doesn' mean tha' I shouldn' follow mine own convictions. My Moral compass doesna' turn ta' set itsself based on who ah'm dealin' wit'. It's me own conscience ta' guide me when there's no light ta' see by, yes, even when the one I deal wit' is Wicked".
Lord Bion raises his eyebrows at the Salubri's arguments.
"What sayeth you Ventrue and you Sir de Clairvaux, is your God the God of the old or the new testament".
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo - Uwe von Roth
You have now fed sufficiently to fill your belly. The Mortals that your Sire has provided to you were sent away for the night that Cainite business could be conducted.
Seated across the mahogany table from you is your Sire, Lord Leopold Valdemar, for a creature that is not supposed to age, he looks older than you remember before torpor took you. Perhaps he is just weary.
"Three nights awake again and you look as sharp as ever my Childe.
As I stated, changes are upon us. My own Sire has met the Final Death and Hunters abound.
A young Coterie is seeking a solution to oust these Mortal pests. No doubt should they succeed they shall seek concessions from whoever would be Prince. Though older than them by years, it would behoove us to have you join them in eliminating this threat. Proceed with caution, it is stated that these Mortals are not just superior fighters but have some sort of Faith based powers at their disposal. Succeed in this and I shall make you my Seneschal, the position I just enjoyed with the Prince before his sudden death.
The difficulty shall be in finding them while being careful not to run afoul of these Mortal Hunters as the city is crawling with them.
They are from various Clans, Andrew Lord of Moray and Geoffroi de Clairvaux of Clan Salubri, Lorenzo Cappelli of Clan Cappadocian, Michele Querini of Clan Setite, Ranerius Bernerius of Clan Toreador, Alessandro Khadaji of Clan Ventrue, and finally Onfroi the Bastard of Burgandy of Clan Nosferatu.
The second task I lay before you is to seek out your old paramour, the Toreador who fancies herself the Artiste. I believe she favors my sister for Rulership of the city. If you can convince her otherwise it could be critical to cementing my position.
I am sure you have many questions Childe, ask and I shall tell you all that I can".
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Alessandro's head lifts a bit, his eyes looking to Lord Bion. He doesn't even try to read him.
The Maker and I had decided to agree to disagree, a long time ago. Long before my... embrace. He pauses, thoughtful.
My opinion, then.
Perhaps it is... Certainty that has been and will always be the greatest sin, all along. He looks to Lorenzo, Michele and then Andrew just a bit more softly.
If it is not beneath you, Lord Bion... and not above me to ask... Is it within your purview to... see what or who set Sir Dunstan upon his ill-fated path?
I would surmise he was merely cat's paw. And, some other benefited.
A knight fallen from Grace and certain elements upon the political tableau weakened, if not completely removed.
My opinion? Something worse, by orders of magnitude, comes.
As to Sir Dunstan, I tend to agree with Sir Andrew. Bowing his head respectfully, he falls silent.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Lord Bion raises his eyebrows at the Salubri's arguments.
"What sayeth you Ventrue and you Sir de Clairvaux, is your God the God of the old or the new testament".
Geoffroi frowns, looking at the supine knight, his eyes still burning and alive though his body is rigid in topor
“My faith has been tempered in the fires of both the plains of Outremer and the fields of France. I have seen men - mortal men - do things that would make even you hardened Canites blanche. I have killed hundreds in my day. I have piled corpses up in windrows and squatted behind them to shield myself from Saracen arrows. I have little mercy left in whatever soul I have left”
He nudges Dunstan with a toe
“I do not see a child of God here. I see a serpent. One who will strike if freed. One does not free serpents. One crushes them underfoot lest they strike at you another day or slither off to breed more serpents to infest your gardens. “
He looks around
“You are perhaps more honorable men … or Canites …than I. And I will abide by your decision. But my vote is for death. Clean death. Dunstan would not give us that mercy if in our shoes”
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Lord Bion is not moved by the passion of either side and responds in as neutral a tone as before, "So it appears a choice has been made. The manner of his Final Death I leave to your Coterie.
You raise an interesting point Ventrue, I shall see what I can ascertain".
For several minutes this time, the Elder pauses not moving eyes closed in concentration. Unlike Mortals who have tell tale signs of life, Cainites do not. Lorenzo uses make-up to cover his pallid appearance. Bion does not, he appears every bit the corpse that a Cappadocian normally would. Odd to watch just how dead one of your kind truly appears when they are unmoving.
Karl, the Zombie servitor is just as still.
His eyes open, "His actions appear to be his own.
His Sire was just as surprised to be beset upon by the Hunters and in that surprise, she commanded him to stay and fight. That command was enforced via the Blood Bond, not via Dominate.
Still, it was certainly a thought worth investigating young Alessandro.
Before you exit my lair, unless of course you wish to avail yourself of my protections once more this night, how goes the effort against the Mortal Hunters themselves?"
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Uwe rubs the bridge of his nose as he considers, "Were these Hunters responsible for the death of the Prince? Faith can be an impressive thing, but to have the power to challenge such an elder among the Kindred would be a truly impressive feat."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Valdemar shakes his head in the negative, "No. As you recall, the Prince was enraged with you for making favorable with terms with Byzantine trading partners. This is because his hatred of the Byzantines stretched back to his Mortal days in service to Emperor Justinian.
His hatred of the Byzantines led to decisions which culminated in these recent nights with his death at the hands of his Mortal and Immortal enemy, Belisarius of Clan Ventrue. Though as I understand it, Belisarius' paramour is the one that tipped the scales in the Ventrue's favor. Had Narses brought me with him, my Sire would be still upon his throne.
There is much history there to unpack if you wish to hear it though I believe that his death makes the conversation moot".
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"Perhaps we can discuss the past another time. For now I think dealing with these hunters seems like a priority that can assist with several goals. Have they killed many of the Kindred in Venice so far?" Uwe asked.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"OF Venice none. They have though slain or driven off the dignitaries of many realms and cities who were here for a conclave to settle the so called "War of Princes". A conflict that started while you lay in torpor.
The hope was that this War between certain factions of Elders and in some cases between Sires and their Childer could be resolved by creating a network of alliances among most if not all prominent Elders of the east and the west. It was an idea Narses had based upon his discussions with the Roman Elders that such a faction, or a Sect, existed in ancient Rome and called itself the Camarilla.
Narses had his own selfish reasons for doing attempting to forge this new alliance no doubt, but he hid his true motivations from his Childer.
With Narses having met the Final Death the continued existence of this newly formed faction is in doubt I would think".
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
"We have taken steps to see to the Mortal Hunters being slain or at least rendered inconsequential in ways that will help protect our secrets." He looks to the others unsure if they want to go into more detail or no.
At the news they might dispose of Dunstan anyway they wish. He sets his jaw and seems thoughtful Twice I've refused the ultimate crime, but now I have the option. I thought it just for my own power and thus selfish, but perhaps there is a lesson even for the elders here. I've been warned of his strength of will, but mine is not so weak. Mmm I cannot dally and keep all still though. I must make up my mine weigh the costs, the gains not just for myself but dreams of putting all on more equal footing without chaos.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"A alliance among the Elders could be beneficial, unless it just aligns our enemies at the same time. Do we know if these hunters aligned with Rome? Or some other sect that can be infiltrated?" Uwe says.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Lorenzo looks to his companions to see their opinions on staying or going.
"Regardless, there is still work to be done. Niccolo must be returned to the Nosferatu, although I am not sure that is a task for tonight."
Turning his attention to Michele, he asks, "You tried to summon Moses before but were not able to reach him. Would you be willing to try again?
If he can not be summoned, I fear he may still be being held by the hunters."
"Outside of Lord Bion's chambers of course." he adds with a deferential nod toward the ancient Cappadocian.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Turning to Lorenzo, "Of course once we are out of these chambers. where do we want to head? Back to my villa or to Narses?"
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
He eyes Duncan, "Your pardon all. I am very tempted by ...well, justice, opportunity or monstrosity, call it what you will, but before I do. I need a moment. It should not take long." He departs looking thoughtful but is hurrying as he promised.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Lorenzo gives Michele an appreciative nod. "I believe Narses's sanctum would be preferable, one of Narses's former ghouls that is now under my charge, Giulia, is a liasion with the Nosferatu and will be beneficial in returning Niccolo's torpid form to his clan. Add to that, Moses likely knows the way there and what needs to be done to get in, and seems the most logical location...at least to me."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
"Agreed. Right before we depart I will try once more. If successful he would follow along the path I take."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Ranerius returns from his jaunt, you can all assume what that mist have been as he does not speak on it.
Lord Bion nods, "Very well.
I shall inform the Elders and the Triumverate that you believe you have rendered the Mortals inert.
I proclaim, as Steward of the Realm of Venice, a strict restriction on the Silence of Blood under pain of Final Death. Feeding is to be restricted to necessity only for the next seven nights, time enough for your plans to be set in motion and hopefully blossom to fruition.
Thereafter, Cainites may return to normal duties but with a caution that some Hunters may remain behind. Even in isolation, a Mortal Hunter by day alone is all it takes for any of us to meet the Final Death.
Once this time has passed, it would seem appropriate for the Lasombra to decide amongst themselves who shall rule the city and who shall be subordinate to the others.
I have vowed to remain neutral in this. For you Neonates, know that your actions will be perceived as both a blessing and a curse. A blessing that you have rid the Elders of a problem. A curse that you have proved capable where they have not. The Elders shall seek to simultaneously woo and minimize you in their efforts to become Prince".
----
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
As you all exit Lord Bion's underground sanctuary, the wind of the Mediterranean Sea blows a cool breeze in your direction. The night is free of clouds and the area near your immediate location free of Mortals.
Carrying the bodies of Nicolo and Sir Dunstan is cumbersome work even for ones that do not tire and without the benefit of Onfroi's Cloak, the safest bet to not be questioned is to find a gondola or two and head out to Sant'Erasmo.
Before you can begin to look Andrew clears his throat, "Tis 'ere we part ways. Ah've said mah peace aboot a great many things. There's disagreement enough tha' I think mah' journey through tha' so called Lon' N'ght is one that'll bring us further an furth'r 'part philosophically. Rather tha' end o' a low note as wit' Onfroi, who ah' agree, is a figure tha' ah' don't entirely trust, ah'd rather part ways wit' ye as amicably as possibly.
Sh'ld yer travels ev'r bring yah ta' the Highlands, be sure ta' look me up. Ah've been aw'y long enough. Tha' quest tha' brought me ta' this place moot.
Go wit' God young Geoffroi, let no tha' temptation o' worldly p'w'r tempt ye furth'r lest ye fall ta' th' Beast and out o' favor wit tha' Lord".
The Lord of Moray packs his pipe, and heads in a different direction from the rest of you.
-----
With your combined might and knowledge of the city, you are able to reach the shores of Sant'Erasmo yet again this night with no troubles taking care to avoid areas in the city though where the Hunters may still be actively seeking you out. The boatmen who took you here, with zero memory of their ravels to this place, but with found Ducats in their pockets! Here, past 3 am, the island truly is deserted. No one is awake. You return to the Haven of Narses.
Geoffroi's Ghoul, Damianus Kourkoas, lowers the ladder allowing you all up, "Greetings my Lords. I did not expect to see you back here and with prisoners in tow!
I fear it is only Christian and Giulia still here this night. The rest of us had marching orders from you collectively or some other thigs to take care of.
The hour grows late, are you all planning to stay here for the night?"
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"That indeed is the problem now. The Elders are either fled or dead though many did leave prior to the attack of the Hunters having lost their bid to become a member of this Sect's Inner Circle. Will those who lost allies or Childer blame Narses for these attacks and thus the Prince who steps into his place?
I have already aligned myself with an Elder, a Setite, and an Ancillae, a Gangrel, neither of which I can trust of course. The Elder claims that a powerful member of his Clan shall arrive in the city soon enough who will aid me in my bid for the Princeship, if this is indeed true I will need to tread lightly as he speaks of her with reverence and he is not one to flatter.
Indications are that these Hunters are indeed aligned with the Pope. Some among their number are said to have displayed powers that are unnatural among Mortals.
I think the first step is to find the young upstart Coterie and aid them against the Hunters, they will know more of this situation than I. Thereafter, we will need to quickly turn your Old Flame and Clan Nosferatu to our side.
The hour grows late, you can begin the search for them tomorrow, the best place to start will likely be with the Cappadocian Elder known as Bion. Unfortunately, the way to get to him has traps and mindless undead, but there is another faster way I believe we can use that shall keep for tomorrow though".
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"I will seek them out tomorrow night. Do you know if the Artiste has retained their old domain?" Uwe asks as he considers their past.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Go wit' God young Geoffroi, let no tha' temptation o' worldly p'w'r tempt ye furth'r lest ye fall ta' th' Beast and out o' favor wit tha' Lord". ...
Geoffroi nods to Andrew, as to a peer
“Thank you for your counsel these past few nights, Andrew. Without your steadying hand I would not have known what to make of this new existence. While our creator does not particularly have a warm spot in my heart, I hold you as a friend, and wish you good fortune upon your journey. Rest assured that I have no wish of worldly power. In fact, I am finding myself less and less enchanted with the world in general- especially our dark blood-drenched parody of it”
He clasps hands and sees him off
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"Lorenzo, I was successful in regards to Moses."
Turning to Andrew, " Be well and know that you have a place in Venice if needed.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Alessandro seems crestfallen for a moment but maintains his... professionalism.
If no one trusts any one... things will be difficult, indeed.
Safe travels Andrew, Lord of Moray.
Please give my regards to Xing, should your paths cross. I do hope she is alright.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Lord Bion's Lair
Please give my regards to Xing, should your paths cross. I do hope she is alright.[/b]
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Damianus shrugs at your nonchalance and lowers the rope ladder. You all climb and enter the sanctum. As Damianus stated, only he Christian and Giulia are present.
Christian speaks, "Prince Narses would generally stay in the lower level, we were not allowed down there while he was resting. As there are no windows anywhere and as the top hatch opens in a separate room, no sunlight can permeate this place so you can feel free to remain here in the lounge. On rare occasions his Childer would stay here.
If you wish privacy for anything of course, the lower level is available".
The Ghouls leave you to your privacy, as much as can be afforded in a circular room at any rate. They sit and speak with one another at a table on the other side of the middle pillar so while you can hear them speaking, you cannot see them from your current vantage point.
Ranerius opens the door to the lower level.
You head down the stairs, the way is quite dark but your Vampitric eyes adjust well enough. You arrive at a door that has been left unlocked, you presume that Arcadius simply did not bother to lock in when he came back up with Michele when they went down together the last time you were here. The door opens to a metal ladder that leads down 20'.
A single flickering candle alights on a round table as you set foot in this underground room, the stairs deposit you in the center of this room. Around that circular table are four comfortable seats, their design quite old. Around the room which is a 15' circular room are doors. The doors have no handles or perhaps they are alcoves?
There are statues in the spaces between the doors, all look to be old, from antiquity and range from Greek and Persian and Egyptian to styles you don't recognize.
There are seven such doors and seven such statues. Now you remember that these are indeed supposed to be portals, you steer clear of them.
As you are about to sit, you notice that the flickering of the candle light does not align with the way the shadows dance in this room. The same unnatural phenomena took place at Narses Elysium.
As you sink your fangs into Dunstan making short work of him and he is quickly becoming a decaying corpse. You feel his blood quicken in your veins...
You are now 5th Generation.
You the gain the following:
Melee - 1 Point
Athletics - 1 Point
Celerity - 1 Point
Fortitude - 1 Point
Potence - 1 Point.
Your Aura now has the tell tale black veins of a Diablerist.
All difficulties for you to resist Frenzy are increased by 1, so a DC 6 is now a DC 7 for you.
Make a Willpower roll DC 9, you may not spend a Willpower point on this roll.
You blink and get the feeling you are being watched. As you turn about, but you see nothing.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"Yes, she still has that same studio in that same building".
"Together we shall meet with Lord Bion, this way you shall have a lead as to where they may be".
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"This will be fine for the day. Thank you, Christian." Lorenzo says, trying to build a bit of rapport with one of his newest ghouls.
Approaching Giulia, Lorenzo confirms, "You were Narses liaison with the Nosferatu, correct? We have a task to complete when the sun sets again. Under the cloth over there," he says gesturing to a covered body "is the torpid form of Niccolo of Clan Nosferatu. I wish to return him to his clan. This is something we can accomplish, yes?"
While waiting for a response, Lorenzo continues to glance toward the entrance hoping for Moses to appear, given that Michele had said his summoning was successful.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Giulia comes over to take a look under the cover, "So that's what he really looks like eh? Sorta demonic, but sexy and gross at the same time.
Anyway Master, I bet you weren't looking for commentary.
Sure, is that something you want me to do or something you want to do with me? If I am doing it alone, is there a message?"
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Alessando looks to the doctor. Lorenzo, please convey that Nicolo's existence was spared not once but twice by Onfroi's... turning the other cheek.
And, that Alessandro Khadaji regrets that he had to be the one to bring him low. Alessandro too, spared him and does send his respects.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"My intentions are to go with you, Giulia. I have other things I hope to discuss with Ferdinand should he be available." the former doctor says.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
You head down the stairs, the way is quite dark but your Vampitric eyes adjust well enough. You arrive at a door that has been left unlocked, you presume that Arcadius simply did not bother to lock in when he came back up with Michele when they went down together the last time you were here. The door opens to a metal ladder that leads down 20'.
A single flickering candle alights on a round table as you set foot in this underground room, the stairs deposit you in the center of this room. Around that circular table are four comfortable seats, their design quite old. Around the room which is a 15' circular room are doors. The doors have no handles or perhaps they are alcoves?
There are statues in the spaces between the doors, all look to be old, from antiquity and range from Greek and Persian and Egyptian to styles you don't recognize.
For a moment, the Toreador admires and is almost mesmerized. Not by any magic, but by the artistry.
There are seven such doors and seven such statues. Now you remember that these are indeed supposed to be portals, you steer clear of them.
As you are about to sit, you notice that the flickering of the candle light does not align with the way the shadows dance in this room. The same unnatural phenomena took place at Narses Elysium.
God forgive me, but as he committed this crime himself, maybe it is just that he give for his cause in a way he did not expect. Your way was too abrupt, Dunstan. And short sighted. A crescendo leaped to in the bridge far too soon.
And Ranerius bites down and starts to drink.
As you sink your fangs into Dunstan making short work of him and he is quickly becoming a decaying corpse. You feel his blood quicken in your veins... You pick up the last 4 BP that was in his system as well.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Temporary Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Uwe nods and retreats out to rest through the day and to consider the changes that have come to pass since he last walked the streets of Venice.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309 [Past Midnight]
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Weary from a long night and an extraordinary set of days, the Coterie rests for the day, Ranerius remains below at rest...
His very short Unlife flashes before your eyes. It confirms all he said, ironically enough, he may have been the most honest broker among you all. His joining forces with the Inquisition was as simple as revenge against his Sire. As the days moved forward, the self preservation of the Beast kicked in, seeking to remove him from his close ties with the Mortal Hunters he knew would slay him too, eventually.
Moving forward, any time you fail a Willpower roll, you must make a second Willpower roll, failure on that second roll allows Dunstan to come out and play for a scene...
Moreover, failed Self-Control rolls will also be treated in teh same manner...
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
-------
The two of you take a brisk walk in the cool night air and approach a building you have seen before but ever entered, the circular dome compound of Narses. The place where his most trusted Ghouls guard, well guarded, him by day.
As you both arrive you see a man, you resume one of Narses ghouls, drop a ladder to a tall Saracen.
Valdemar pauses, [b]"Odd. That man, a Ghoul, was an agent for the former Seneschal of Narses. I wonder what he is doing here, tonight.
Tell me Childe, have you Auspex capable of reading his aura or his mind?".
-------
You all wake and gather on the ground level.
Lydia clears her throat, "Well, that was an interesting several days no?
Do we bother to meet with Xing and Vitaliano this evening?
Once we return Niccolo to the Nosferatu Master, do we even stay in Venice? I predict that there may be bloodshed to claim the throne of Narses and as much as the Lasombra and Bion believe that the Childer of Narses may soon sit on that Shadowy Seat through rites of Succession, I cannot imagine that other Cainites wouldn't have ambitions to claim this lucrative Domain as their own..."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Alessandro is up perhaps a bit earlier than some of the others, he does his best not to disturb them. What I'd give for a cappuccino... Damned un-death.
When they are all up and about and Lydia speaks. If Xing is expecting us so, we should rendezvous. She may have or be interested in information.
As the the political machinations and who vies for Princedom... He shrugs.
I will remain as long as I can. Venice will need to heal from what has and will come.
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
"We should meet with them as I agree the more information the better. As for Venice, for now, it is still my home."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Ranerius rose later than usual, but he comes in early enough to hear Michelle's commentary
"We should meet with them as I agree the more information the better. As for Venice, for now, it is still my home."
"Hear Hear." Ranerius says. The Toreador is in agreement "We did not fight for this city so hard that we should run now."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Lorenzo awakes and glances over with a small grin when he hears Lydia's voice. "Perhaps a bit too interesting." he answers. "But we should still meet with them, at least hear what they have to say."
"As for Venice, I have a bit of unfinished business here that needs to be seen to before I could even consider leaving." he says, looking around for Moses, whom Michele had summoned the night before, not seeing the Moorish man, Lorenzo sighs. "That being the retrieval of Moses and confirming that my mortal family is safe."
Venice by Night - Monday April 7, 1309
Narses Haven on Sant'Erasmo
Geoffroi awakes … hungry. He doesn’t think he will ever get used to the sensation- so different than the simple craving for one’s daily bread.
He listens to the back and forth banter of his new .. friends? That seems too strong a word. Comrades perhaps. Allies.
“I have no home now. I could return to Marseilles, but to what end? I don’t know who of our kind dwell there and what their temper is. Besides I was just hiding there anyways. I had no ties to the region by blood or fealty. “
He looks around at the relatively well-appointed chamber
“Venice is as good a place as any to begin anew”
Ranerius closes his eyes, and says "While a citizen of Padua,Dunstan DID have a very small plot of land on mainland Italy which is within the Dominion of Venice. A fall back perhaps if we absolutely must. It maybe we should send an agent there to see it's current condition as well."