Hour follows hour like water in a river... (pre-dawn Wed. 4/4/07) [Archive]

Detritus

03-23-2010, 02:01 PM

This post is setting the stage. Follow-up post will be coming shortly.

Leighton
The Justicar's private aircraft touches down in New Orleans just after 5 am. Half an hour later, you, Elliott, and Jazz (see this post for pics of Elliott Sinclair and Jazz Wentworth: http://forum.criticalfumble.net/showpost.php?p=328858&postcount=35) arrive at a three-story mansion near the campus of Tulane University. A ghoul attendant leads you to a large parlor. There's a surprising number of people present for a meeting this close to sunrise.

Your eye is drawn to a group of five women near the far corner of the room, the only people (save one) in the room that you recognize. The barest glimmer of recognition appears on Councilor Meerlinda's face when you enter. Gwynnis looks over and gives everyone in the group of newcomers a coy little half-smile before resuming her conversation with the Councilor. Anneke gives you a nod of acknowledgment as Rebekka begins moving away from the group of women to occupy a more central position in the parlor.

You exchange a look with Elliott when you realize that the fifth woman in the group is in actuality a teenage girl in appearance. You had both heard that Sidana had been destroyed nearly a quarter-century ago, yet there she stands. She seems distracted, and does not look in your direction when you enter.

There are two other groups of about a dozen people apiece in the room. The only other person you recognize is Bonnie, who is holding forth in another corner of the room, surrounded by ten or twelve others, all of whom are at the very least attractive, and dressed in what you presume is stylish attire of various sorts.

The other group is near the door where you enter the parlor. On the whole they are dressed much more casually than Bonnie's group, with a couple of exceptions. One of those exceptions, a beautiful woman of middling height, speaks with a tall, rugged-looking man perhaps in his early 40s. How many are Kindred, and how many mortal, you do not yet know.

François and Leo
Wynn and Camille are quietly speaking to each other about various sites in the city where a caern could be located. Roman is there, as are the Brujah who went to the community college for backup. Three of the other Tremere in the city -- Sabine, Thomas, and Merill -- are also in your group, on the side opposite of you. Dee Dee, Sarah, and Jake haven't returned, and neither have Zack and Erik.

A group of three men, two who are probably in their early to mid-50s, the other perhaps half that age, enter the parlor, prompting Rebekka to head towards the center of the room. After you gave Rebekka a brief rundown of your encounter with the Garou, the Prince had informed you that newcomers to the city, at least two of whom would be permanent additions to the Kindred community in New Orleans, were on their way, and requested that you wait to make your full report until after they presented themselves to her.

Bonnie is with Radeyah, Ramiel, and Kallista, and eight members of Mr. Johnson's herd, whom his childer have managed to round up for this meeting.

Rosalyn
You're still reeling a little from all you've learned tonight in your memory retrieval session with your sire. In addition to the vision you had of striking down Gwynnis in 1940 England during the Councilor's tarot reading, you've relived a similar episode when the Spanish Armada threatened England in the late 16th century. You also remembered drinking your brother dry in St. Michael's Cathedral in Glastonbury Abbey a few days after your Embrace. In addition, you are (or at least Sidana is) apparently one of the patron saints of France.

Detritus

03-23-2010, 02:11 PM

One of the older-appearing newcomers steps forward to present himself to Rebekka.

"As is the Tradition, I recite the lineage of Elliott Sinclair, a Toreador of the Seventh Generation.

"My name is Elliott Sinclair. I am Toreador. My sire is Anneke." Rebekka breaks in when Elliott is about to continue.

"Thank you, Elliott, I'll stipulate to acknowledging the remainder of your lineage without your needing to recite it. Welcome to New Orleans."

"Thank you, my Prince." Elliott sketches a bow and steps back into the group of Kindred near the parlor door.

Rebekka then turns to the other of the older-looking gentlemen newcomers. Her face is on the pleasant side of neutral as she waits for his introduction.

hidufel

03-23-2010, 03:59 PM

Leighton steps forth towards Rebekka, and in front of her bows graciously, as an englishman, with his arms back. "It is my honor to announce, Colonel Leighton Beaumont at your service. As tradition dictates, I present myself to your presence, 9th generation tremere, childer of the Lady Chadwith, whose sire was Astrid Thomas."

Kalzazz

03-23-2010, 04:58 PM

((Where am I currently located and such?))

Detritus

03-23-2010, 07:54 PM

((Where am I currently located and such?))
Quick layout of the room, using clock coordinates, if you're looking down at it from above:

There are two doors, positioned where the hour hand of a clock would be at ~ 1:30 and ~ 4:30. The 4:30 door is the one closer to the front door of the mansion.

Rebekka is near the center of the room, slightly in the direction of 12 away from the center.

Rosalyn is with Gwynnis, Meerlinda, and Anneke in the 10-11 o'clock position of the room. Rosalyn herself is probably closer to 10 o'clock.

Bonnie et. al would be in the 1-2 o'clock position.

Everyone else in the room is roughly ranged between the 4 and the 8. The newcomers start out between 4 and 5, and move until they're just a couple paces away from Rebekka when presenting themselves.

I'll get to Rebekka's reply to Leighton, Jazz's presentation, and what follows thereafter as soon as I'm able.

Detritus

03-24-2010, 02:43 AM

((I forgot to mention this in the setup post, but Gwynnis is now sporting an eyepatch over her missing eye, and also has found a white blouse with ruffles along the button line that she now wears under her black suit jacket.))

"Welcome, Colonel, I'm pleased that you able to make it here in such good time. We'll speak more in a short while."

Jazz takes his position front-and-center to the Prince as Leighton recedes into the arc of Kindred behind him.

"As is the Tradition, I recite the lineage of Jazz Wentworth, a Ventrue of the 10th Generation.

"My name is Jazz Wentworth. I am Ventrue. My sire is Heather Florent." Rebekka keeps her face neutral, and gives no indication that Jazz's presentation is complete.

"My name is Heather Florent. I am Ventrue. My sire is Luccia Pacciola." Still no reaction from Rebekka.

"My name is Luccia Pacciola. I am Ventrue. My sire is Sir Walter Nash.

"My name is Sir Walter Nash. I am Ventrue. My sire is Helena Casimir." Rebekka finally nods after hearing Prince Casimir's name from Jazz.

"Thank you, Mr. Wentworth, that will be sufficient. Please accept the hospitality of the Domain of New Orleans," Rebekka says to the three newcomers, indicating the group standing by the far door. The Kindred in that part of the parlor (Bonnie, Kallista, Radeyah, Ramiel) segregate themselves from the mortals.

"There are matters of import that require discussion before sunrise, so I am afraid the hospitality portion of this meeting must be short."

"Should we wait until after the discussion before proceeding with other matters?" asks Elliott.

Rebekka purses her lips and turns towards Bonnie. "Perhaps if we sequester those guests who need not be present for the discussion?" she says to the Prince. After another moment's thought, Rebekka nods her assent.

While Bonnie and Kallista are shepherding the mortals from the room, the Prince signals for Radeyah and Ramiel to remain. They move to about 3 o'clock in the room, and Rebekka takes a few more steps away from the Kindred arrayed in the great arc facing her.

"Before we proceed with the main item on the agenda, some residency matters. Mr. Wentworth is the first member of the Ventrue clan to relocate to New Orleans in some time. The first of several, it is to be hoped; their absence has been felt in the city."

"Thank you, my Prince," Jazz replies, "I can only hope to live up to the high standards of leadership and decorum of my clan."

"And you, Elliott, what are your plans? The might of Clan Toreador as embodied by the Justicar and her most trusted agents cannot remain in New Orleans indefinitely. Yet the clan will need a leader after their departure. Would you be that leader?"

"It had not been my intention to remain here past Conclave," replies Elliott, "but the matter could come up for negotiation." He sends a brief, wary look in the direction of Gwynnis. Ramiel and Radeyah exchange a glance, then divide their attention between Elliott and Gwynnis et al.

"Very little under the stars is truly non-negotiable," Rebekka says, "of which more in a moment." The Prince turns to Leighton.

"Given the likelihood of imminent conflict with the Sabbat, the Councilor and I both felt it prudent to have someone with military experience to help establish and organize the Chantry of New Orleans. Col. Beaumont has experience from serving in Her Majesty Queen Victoria's army, and has also had occasion to lend assistance in other engagements in the field. He will be Regent of the New Orleans Chantry at such time as it is established."

((Leighton may offer up a brief reply here, which we'll say occurs before any other matters are discussed, regardless of the actual order in which they're posted.))

Detritus

03-24-2010, 02:48 AM

"Now that the administrative items are out of the way, we can discuss those matters of import," Rebekka says. "We have strong reason to believe that the Sabbat are allied with, or at least working with, a segment of the Garou population. We have made overtures to a different faction in the Garou political structure, and those who were in this embassy are here to present their report to this assembly."

All eyes turn to those of you who met with the Garou once the Prince finishes speaking.

Brother Brian

03-24-2010, 07:34 AM

Francois steps forward. He speaks in a clipped military tone, chock full of formality.

"Your highness, the meeting with the Garou elders was marginally successful. Upon proving the involvement of those known to the wolves as Black Spiral Dancers, we entered into negotiation. A standard agreement was reached that should we ally ourselves, neither they nor we would offer violence upon the other."

Francos pauses here, briefly scanning the room with his eyes, making brief contact with all. His tone becomes a fraction less formal and almost imperceptably menacing. "This I have guaranteed to them on my own life."

"Some standard negotiation tactics happened at that point. The garou elders feel that the inclusion of the Black Spiral Dancers will be insufficent to gather the will of their kind to battle at our side. They have requested our assistance in securing for them a shrine of their religion, specifically offering security while they consecrate it. I made no promise or rejection to this request.

"As is common, we reached a point where reasonable terms were put forth, and we withdrew. At this time, a meeting between Kindred and Garou leaders is called for. We arranged to meet them at the hour of nine tommorow, and convey them to your presence."

With that, Francois clicks his heels together, bows once, and waits.

Detritus

03-24-2010, 07:09 PM

"I believe there will be no problem in granting the good-behavior provision," Rebekka says. "Any who harm our Garou allies will be held in violation of the Sixth Tradition, should we manage to form an alliance. If anyone present has any grievances with the Garou, it's probably best if they're brought out into the open now."

Wynn's gaze slides over to Gwynnis after Rebekka finishes, and the Prince turns her head that way after seeing Wynn direct his attention to the Justicar.

"You think I'd break the peace?" Gwynnis asks, coming up to Rebekka's right side.

"Your name came up," Wynn replies. "At least one of those we met with seemed either to have her own grievance, or suspected one of you."

"But that's preposterous. The Toreador have as much skin in the game as any other clan. You explained that, didn't you?"

Brother Brian

03-25-2010, 10:37 AM

Detritus

03-25-2010, 04:18 PM

Francois speaks softly, "Your grace, your investment in the current situation, and that of your clan, is not what Wynn spoke of. The Garou in question seemed to feel the possiblity that previous standing between you and they might be relevant."
"Previous standing? What previous standing?" Anneke comes up to the Justicar's right and whispers something in her ear.

"What, that? The Great Plague? Don't they understand how long ago that was? The Garou aren't planning on releasing the plague into New Orleans, are they?"

"I think it's safe to assume they won't," replies the Prince, "but perhaps you should be a part of the upcoming meeting, so that you can explain your side of things."

"Yes, I believe you're right about that." Rebekka turns back to François after the Justicar's reply.

"9 PM," she muses. "You'll be able to receive delivery of the weapons before then?"

Brother Brian

03-25-2010, 04:25 PM

"My presence is not strictly required for that. I believe that Jake can manage it. I have made the needed preparations."

Detritus

03-25-2010, 05:10 PM

"My presence is not strictly required for that. I believe that Jake can manage it. I have made the needed preparations."
"Very well," replies Rebekka. "How are they doing, Anneke, have you heard from the Sheriff recently?"

"The last I heard, Jake had made contact with the occupants of the target address, two Kindred, a male and a female, with the Sheriff and Sarah a discreet distance away. I don't think there was too much in the way of danger, but it's been a little while since I've heard anything."

"Kindred the Sheriff did not recognize?" asks the Prince.

"It seems so, yes."

"Have we been introduced to all of your sire's childer?" Rebekka asks of Ramiel and Radeyah.

"All those we know of in New Orleans," replies Ramiel. "There have been others who have left the city. So far as I know, none of them have returned." Radeyah nods in agreement as Ramiel speaks.

"Shall I have them brought in?" asks Anneke.

"Continue monitoring the situation for now," replies Rebekka. "Let's see how our newcomers handle themselves."

"What can you tell us of this shrine they propose to have us help them to secure?" the Prince asks you.

Brother Brian

03-25-2010, 05:32 PM

"Very little. My understanding is that the holy place, a caern they call it, is someplace where they commune with the target of their worship. There is some supernatural element to it to be certain. I would imagine that agreeing to this provision is to agree to provide an affirmative defense while the site was consecrated, and from there to an agreement that the area is there's."

Detritus

03-29-2010, 12:52 AM

((This post was trickier than I first anticipated. Any of the PCs present, which includes all but Jake right now, may supply such input as they see fit, although I'm not sure it's strictly necessary. I think the discussion will break up into subgroups very shortly, but I'll probably keep everything in this thread.))

"That's a volatile arrangement," Gwynnis says to Rebekka.

"My sense is that the leadership of the Garou that we did meet with were earnest in their desire for peaceful relations," says Wynn.

"I'm sure it was," replies the Justicar, "and no doubt the arrangement would be very beneficial in the short term, yet the Garou are no more longer-lived than humans of robust health. There is an inevitability to the turnover in their leadership, and each such change brings with it a chance for the leaders' philosophies to change with it."

"I dare say that the most recent turnover in leadership has happened on our side," Wynn retorts.

"Quite so," replies Gwynnis, "and look at the policy and personnel changes that have accompanied the change in leadership. A primogen council formed, Ventrue returning to the city, no doubt a new Chantry will be established and be peopled by several Kindred who hadn't lived in the city before last week. And that's filtering out the changes wrought by the looming conflict." The Justicar turns towards Rebekka.

"New Orleans is yours to rule as you see fit, my Prince, within the usual limitations, but I urge you to consider that this turnover, and the changes that attend it, is something that you'll have to face with the passing of each generation. One generation's symbol of cooperation with their mortal enemies might well turn into the power base to launch an assault against those enemies for the next. If not that one, then the one that follows, or the one following that. How long will it be before they forget?"

"They seemed to remember you well enough, from an incident that occurred over three centuries ago," says Anneke. "Three centuries ago at the most recent." Justicar and Archon hold each other's gaze for a moment before the reply.

"That memory persisted against the backdrop of an intensely contested battle for resources and territory. I was born into a world where the Romans ruled Britain within living memory, and I have never heard of the like as has been proposed. Uneasy truces, smoldering resentment, open hostility, these are the things that have defined Kindred-Lupine interactions for millennia."

Having watched this interplay in thoughtful silence, Rebekka finally speaks.

"Your warnings are well-taken, elder, but we will pursue an agreement with the Garou. It falls to us to forge the continuity necessary to keep relations with our allies in good repair." The Prince turns to the great arc of Kindred before her.

"We will heed the Justicar's warning, but I choose to frame it thus: that we take care that both sides understand in no uncertain terms the nature of the agreement. If it is a temporary arrangement, then so be it. If it is a longer-term commitment, then we cannot and will not cast it aside when it is convenient to do so. Undoubtedly, a construction of one of these caerns, should it proceed, would necessitate a lengthier agreement."

Detritus

03-30-2010, 05:52 PM

"Will the meeting take place here?" Anneke asks.

"No," replies Rebekka after a moment's thought, "let's have the meeting at Storyville Jazz Hall. Make whatever security arrangement you deem necessary. The Justicar and I will both be there. You can work with those who attended this morning's meeting to set a final roster for the meeting tonight. Apprise the Sheriff of whatever you've planned when she returns. Do your best to work out a suitable location to cede to the Garou as well."

Bonnie returns and inquires of the Prince when you'll be ready for the mortals. She says that will happen shortly, and then directs the Seneschal to work with Ramiel and Radeyah to see to Jazz's immediate needs for settling in to New Orleans.

"Elliott, Colonel, will you please come with me? There are some matters that require discussion." The Prince glances at Rosalyn before heading back towards the far corner of the parlor. The Justicar and Councilor go with the Prince.

((More setup, actionable posts to follow shortly...))

Detritus

03-30-2010, 06:02 PM

The PCs with Anneke et al. (François/Leo):

Anneke watches her sister head towards the corner of the parlor before turning back to those of you who were at the earlier meeting with the Garou. Camille remains with this group, and the Brujah on backup duty tonight remain as well.

"For meeting attendees, I'm not sure we need any more than the four of you at tonight's meeting, the Prince, and the Justicar."

"I think Camille should also be there," replies Wynn. "We'll be relying on her knowledge of the city in the matter of picking a location for the caern."

"OK, that sounds reasonable enough.' Is there anyone else?"

((After any reply to this question, Anneke resumes with the following question.))

"I'm assuming you'll want the Brujah in the area as before?" Anneke asks François. "I'll want at least one of myself or the Sheriff out there, also, but I want to hear her report before deciding either way."

Detritus

03-30-2010, 06:13 PM

Brother Brian

03-31-2010, 09:50 AM

"It will be important to secure the location; we are acting as host, and must protect our guests. My clan, at a minimum, should run security around the building."

hidufel

03-31-2010, 11:39 AM

The PCs with Rebekka et al. (Rosalyn & Leighton):

The other Tremere in the room follow the Prince into the far corner of the parlor. Rebekka begins by addressing Leighton and Elliott.

"As you both no doubt are wondering, your eyes do not deceive you. She who stands before you shares the physical form of Sidana Quinnell," the Prince says, gesturing towards Rosalyn, "yet she is not Sidana. May I introduce to you Rosalyn Quinnell, childe of Gwynnis."

"I must confess my own bewilderment at this... and truth be known still bear some surprise. However, i offer my most humble greetings..." Leighton bows before Rosalyn, "...Rosalyn, childe of Gwynnis. It is a pleasure to be of acquaintance."

Looking to Rebekka, "was there more to discuss?"

Detritus

03-31-2010, 01:31 PM

"It will be important to secure the location; we are acting as host, and must protect our guests. My clan, at a minimum, should run security around the building."
"The building itself was part of Elysium, at least during Mr. Johnson's reign," says Camille.

"That's not a distinction our foes are likely to honor," replies Anneke. "The neighborhood should certainly have patrols. The building itself, too." Anneke looks over to the Toreador with Jazz, and then to the group with the Prince, before returning her attention to your group.

"And we mustn't forget the Tremere. I'm sure the Prince will want her clan involved, too." Anneke lapses into silence for a bit, her calculating plain on her face, even with the shades she wears concealing her eyes.

"Brujah outside, with one of myself or the Sheriff as well. Possibly both. The Seneschal can lead the Toreador in the building itself. And at least one Tremere both outside and in. Is this agreeable to everyone here?"

Brother Brian

03-31-2010, 01:44 PM

"Very Well" says Francois. I myself will be ready to respond should things come to a head, so a Brujah presence will be in Elysium.

Detritus

03-31-2010, 02:12 PM

"I must confess my own bewilderment at this... and truth be known still bear some surprise. However, i offer my most humble greetings..." Leighton bows before Rosalyn, "...Rosalyn, childe of Gwynnis. It is a pleasure to be of acquaintance."

Looking to Rebekka, "was there more to discuss?"
Elliott also greets Rosalyn, his voice and demeanor pleasant enough, but a hint of wariness accompanies his greeting as well.

"Much more, I'm afraid," Rebekka says in answer to Leighton's question. "Sidana is also in New Orleans. She fell in Detroit over two decades ago, battling the Sabbat, but was not destroyed. The Sabbat captured her, and converted her to their side, presumably by force."

"There was a... fracture in Sidana's being, a result of the conversion rites," says Gwynnis. "Some portion of her essence was able to escape, and remained untethered to a physical body until very recently." She looks at Rebekka for a moment before saying, "That is a long story, the details of which are not important right now, save that Rosalyn must be reunited with Sidana, and quickly, else she will die."

"The arrangement with the Garou," Rebekka says, "is part of an effort geared towards recapturing Sidana. The Sabbat are in New Orleans, and have allied themselves with a corrupt faction of the Garou. When we set our plan in motion, it will provoke a response, and it may well turn out that it will take the combined resources of the Kindred and the Garou to weather that response."

"As you know, Colonel," says Gwynnis, "Sidana is an extremely dangerous quarry, and she still has the use of her spear." The Justicar's voice tightens on the word "her." "Many of the Kindred in New Orleans will be involved in the plan to recapture Sidana, but few will truly understand the full extent of her capabilities, even after being told."

"You'll work on the establishment of the Chantry, of course," says Rebekka, "but in the immediate term, I want you to be a part of the operation to recapture Sidana."

Huxley

04-04-2010, 08:12 PM

Kalzazz

04-05-2010, 02:31 PM

"It is a pleasure to meet you also Colonel, I am very glad you will be part of this . . . . I understand your defiances of gravity concerning Sidana are truly impressive"

Detritus

04-05-2010, 09:04 PM

"I find the plan to be agreeable. Though I do feel it necessary to note, in light of what will occur after our initial meeting with the Garou, that I may serve better in the role of reconnaissance and lookout than I would as a front-line combatant. I have the ability to hold my own, but expert warrior I am not. Of course, I am willing to do either"
"You don't want to continue as part of the negotiating team?" asks Anneke. "It's your right as being one of the eyewitnesses to the encounter in the Deep Umbra."

Huxley

04-07-2010, 06:13 PM

"You don't want to continue as part of the negotiating team?" asks Anneke. "It's your right as being one of the eyewitnesses to the encounter in the Deep Umbra."

"Sorry for being unclear. I think the negotiations will go well, and meant to reference when we moved to defend their shrine"

Detritus

04-08-2010, 02:00 AM

"Sorry for being unclear. I think the negotiations will go well, and meant to reference when we moved to defend their shrine"
"I think we will all be scouts at first," replies Anneke, "however, I believe we can adapt assignments to reflect our various individual strengths."

Detritus

04-09-2010, 04:29 PM

"It is a pleasure to meet you also Colonel, I am very glad you will be part of this . . . . I understand your defiances of gravity concerning Sidana are truly impressive"
((If Leighton wants to reply to this, he may, but I'm going to go ahead with restoring Jake et al.'s entrance.))

=====================

((I should have mentioned before, but Rebekka would have also introduced Leighton to Sabine (http://forum.criticalfumble.net/showpost.php?p=88292&postcount=22), Thomas, and Merill (http://forum.criticalfumble.net/showpost.php?p=53063&postcount=10), so we'll say that happened before getting into the meat of the conversation. See links for pics.))

As the separate conversations in the room proceed, the Sheriff returns to the mansion with Jake and Sarah behind her. She makes eye contact with Anneke as soon as she enters the parlor, and motions with her head towards the group with the Prince. She falls in besides Dee Dee as you make your way towards Rebekka et al. The Prince makes introductions, after which the Sheriff cuts in.

"Pleased to meet you, but we'll need to postpone the pleasantries for a bit. There were Kindred of unknown and possibly suspect provenance at the address that Jake's investigation led us to. It wouldn't surprise me if there's at least one more of Mr. Johnson's childer in town, though. He did the talking there, so I think he should start us off here as to what he found."

((It'll take a few minutes of in-game time for the introductions and Jake's preliminary report to unfold, even if it's covered in a single reply. François and Leo, who aren't in the Prince's group, could carry on with their conversation, if so desired, though that's not strictly necessary, either.))

Chimaera

04-09-2010, 05:16 PM

"Well, we got to the address and I took point. I figured I'd try to talk myself in and see if I could accomplish our goals with a minimum of fuss and bother. So, it was *really* helpful to be completely tongue-tied and thrown totally off my game because who should be at the door, but my sire of blessed memory, that psycho Annie. I have to apologize -- I was utterly discombobulated and did not manage to bring my A game to the task at hand. Annie baited me and the kid dug in his heels. The kid was surprised to hear about Mr. Johnson's death. Annie seemed to be as well, but I wouldn't swear to the truth of that; she's a sly one. And crazy. I don't know if she was working a deeper plan or just messing with me for the hell of it. But it seems apparent to me that she hasn't bothered to check in like she's supposed. Mind you, she's not a fan of the rules."

Detritus

04-10-2010, 04:34 AM

"The kid?" asks Rebekka.

"One of Mr. Johnson's expansive brood, if I had to guess," says Dee Dee. The Prince's eyes fasten on Sabine.

"If he is, Mr. Johnson didn't tell me about him," Sabine says.

"He was pretty scruffy looking from what I saw," says the Sheriff. "A lot less pretty than the old Prince's tastes seemed to run. Could be he was made specifically for managing Mr. Johnson's electronic affairs and otherwise kept out of sight. Meaning no offense to the elders gathered here, Kindred born more than a few decades ago can be a bit slow on the uptake as to how modern technology works. If the kid was any good at all, I figure he could have set things up to snoop on Mr Johnson's computer activities."

The Prince takes in the Sheriff's report and considers it for a moment before asking, "And this Annie, is she also one of Mr. Johnson's get?"

"Sarah suggested as much while we were in the field," replies Dee Dee. "The math works out." The Sheriff starts describing Annie to Sabine, and it doesn't take long for her eyes to go wide with recognition.

"You mean Danni? Danni's back in town? And she's your sire? Oh, you poor sap."

((Jake can interject any response you see fit here, then the conversation will proceed as follows.))

Sabine continues after an inquiring look from Rebekka.

"Danielle Thibodeaux is her full name. Mr. Johnson Embraced her some time around 1980, I think it was. Definitely a good time girl. Had trouble meeting the old Prince's standards of decorum, and that's fairly tough to do. Mr. Johnson never could reign her in. She left town a good 20 years ago."

Having overheard Sabine's exclamation of Danni's name, Ramiel, Radeyah, and Camille all drift over to the far corner of the parlor.

"Danielle left town under acrimonious circumstances?" asks Rebekka.

"I wouldn't say that, precisely," replies Ramiel. "Mr. Johnson was still very fond of her. It would probably be better to say that he sent her away before she did something that he couldn't just sweep under the rug."

"None of you knew she was back in town?" the Prince asks.

"No, Your Majesty," replies Radeyah, and both Camille and Ramiel concur non-verbally.

"That doesn't prove that there's a Domain violation," Anneke says. "She could have presented herself privately."

"I'm forced to agree," says Dee Dee. "If Mr. Johnson was on good terms with Annie, he might have sent for her if he ever suspected something squirrelly was happening in the city. Still, they should both be brought in, I think."

"Agreed," replies Rebekka. The Prince looks about those assemble around her. "Ramiel, will you Summon Danielle here?"

"As you wish, my Prince," he says. He withdraws from the group and closes his eyes.

"It seems you will have another chance with the kid, as you described him," the Prince says to you. "Are you conversant with the technique known as Summoning?"

Chimaera

04-10-2010, 08:54 PM

"I am. Do you wish me to do so?"

Detritus

04-12-2010, 06:17 AM

"I am. Do you wish me to do so?"
"Please do," replies the Prince.

((Jake is presently down 3 BP. Summoning costs 4 BP/8 Fatigue with the usual 1 BP <--> 2 Fatigue exchange if you don't want to pay wholly with either blood or fatigue. FYI, your Empathy tells you it might be a little risky to ask for some blood such as Sarah brought you during your quality time with Mr. Johnson's computer.))

Once Jake's interaction with the Prince wraps up, Muaziz enters the parlor with several Kindred in tow.

((See this post (http://forum.criticalfumble.net/showpost.php?p=353759&postcount=41) for descriptions. The "marching order" after Muaziz is Dru, Rat Tail, Brooke, and David.))

"Here they are, Majesty," says Muaziz. A woman with chestnut hair enters after the Tremere archon, and then a man that is nearly bald follows her. A look of horror comes across his face as he surveys the room.

"Too many, too many," he says, and turns to exit, running flush into the third woman to enter the parlor.

"What's wrong?" the third woman asks after regaining her balance. She then looks around the room herself, and says, "It's probably a good idea to thin out the crowd, sire." An impressively tall man looms in the doorway, easily topping six feet tall.

"Dammit, I don't want to have to chase him around again. You said there wouldn't be that many people here."

"There weren't when I left," replies Muaziz.

((Will the first person to read this please pick a number (integer) between 1 and 28 inclusive?))

Chimaera

04-12-2010, 09:59 AM

"As you wish".

Jake steps back, as Ramiel did, and attempts the Summoning.

((Do you still have dice rolls or do you need more?))

Detritus

04-12-2010, 01:17 PM

((Do you still have dice rolls or do you need more?))
I still have enough dice rolls to move ahead.

Huxley

04-12-2010, 01:30 PM

((Will the first person to read this please pick a number (integer) between 1 and 28 inclusive?))

17

((Love of Primes, FillerTW!!))

Detritus

04-13-2010, 12:07 AM

OK, I see I've got a bit of work to do after that pick.

In the meantime, I've decided I'd like another integer picked from 1-28. It can be any of the players. The pick could be 17 again, in theory, but certainly doesn't have to be. :grin:

Kalzazz

04-13-2010, 01:22 AM

eleven is a lucky integer

Detritus

04-13-2010, 03:45 AM

eleven is a lucky integer
This will depend on who you ask. Here are what the numbers picked were determining:

Recipient of Rat Tail's Beast
1. Anneke
2. Antoinette
3. Brooke
4. Camille
5. David
6. Dee Dee
7. Dru
8. Elliott
9. François
10. Gwynnis
11. Jake
12. Jazz
13. Leighton
14. Leo
15. Meerlinda
16. Merill
17. Muaziz
18. Radeyah
19. Ramiel
20. Rebekka
21. Roman
22. Rosalyn
23. Sabine
24. Sarah
25. Thomas
26. Uma
27. Wynn
28. Yuri

Recipient's First Target
1. Anneke
2. Antoinette
3. Brooke
4. Camille
5. David
6. Dee Dee
7. Dru
8. Elliott
9. François
10. Gwynnis
11. Jake
12. Jazz
13. Leighton
14. Leo
15. Meerlinda
16. Merill
17. Radeyah
18. Ramiel
19. Rat Tail
20. Rebekka
21. Roman
22. Rosalyn
23. Sabine
24. Sarah
25. Thomas
26. Uma
27. Wynn
28. Yuri

You were really close to making things super-interesting. Not that things will be boring with what the actual picks will set in motion. :grin:

Kalzazz

04-13-2010, 04:15 AM

((Im not sure if I should be apologizing to Chim or he should be thanking me, but definitely interesting))

Detritus

04-13-2010, 04:24 AM

"Here they are, Majesty," says Muaziz. A woman with chestnut hair enters after the Tremere archon, and then a man that is nearly bald follows her. A look of horror comes across his face as he surveys the room.

"Too many, too many," he says, and turns to exit, running flush into the third woman to enter the parlor.

"What's wrong?" the third woman asks after regaining her balance. She then looks around the room herself, and says, "It's probably a good idea to thin out the crowd, sire." An impressively tall man looms in the doorway, easily topping six feet tall.

"Dammit, I don't want to have to chase him around again. You said there wouldn't be that many people here."

"There weren't when I left," replies Muaziz.[/color]
"Well, obviously you were wrong," the man says. "Just be cool, Rat Tail."

"His name's Eddie, David," the woman now holding Eddie/Rat Tail says.

"It probably would be best to thin out the crowd a little," the other female stranger says. Before she can continue, Rat Tail lets out a little whimper.

One instant Muaziz is rolling her eyes as she approaches Rebekka, the next an inhuman growl issues from her throat. Jake, having just finished putting out the call for Bobby, can only watch during the split second it takes for Muaziz's roundhouse kick to land squarely just below his left shoulder, snapping his clavicle and sending him sprawling into Dee Dee and Rebekka. All three of them fall over together.

Muaziz whirls around, looking for all the world like a cornered animal.

((I'm going to say that Jake spent 2 BP and 4 Fatigue to activate Summoning. He's at 9 BP, 6 Fatigue, and is now down 5 HP. And he's lying on top of the Prince and Sheriff of New Orleans.

The floor is open for reactions...))

Brother Brian

04-13-2010, 11:23 AM

I'm going to assume that Francois has basic knowledge of Malkavian diciplines and respond accordingly."

Francois strides toward the newcomers, drawing his rapier as he does so, holding it pointed down. As he comes within sword reach of the new visitors, he calmly says to the bald man, "I would take it as a personal favor if you released your hold on the Tremere Archon now. There is no need for things to become any more unpleasant."

Chimaera

04-13-2010, 01:15 PM

((OOC: Egad!!))

hidufel

04-13-2010, 01:58 PM

Leighton also pulls out his rapier from his walking cane, and instinctively moves to place himself in front of the prince.

Kalzazz

04-13-2010, 03:58 PM

Rosalyn sees Dee Dee go down in the unglamorous heap, ~This is my replacement?!~

((Also, can I get a combat paralysis check please?))

Detritus

04-13-2010, 04:04 PM

Rosalyn sees Dee Dee go down in the unglamorous heap, ~This is my replacement?!~

((Also, can I get a combat paralysis check please?))
You're fine this time around.

Detritus

04-13-2010, 06:12 PM

I assume Jake will be disentangling himself from Rebekka and Dee Dee in the immediate future.

Rosalyn's free to react as she sees fit. Leo can do what he wants, too. I want to wait until everyone's put in their reaction before moving forward on this one.

Huxley

04-13-2010, 07:54 PM

Leo will tackle Muaziz in an effort to restrain her.

Chimaera

04-14-2010, 10:46 AM

Jake will indeed disentangle himself and stand up. If Muaziz is being restrained, he'll chill, if not, he'll... he'll prepare to get hit again? His Boxing parry is 10. At this point, Jake is going to let the more rough n' tumble types deal with the situation. If things start to get out of hand, he'll try to bring Majesty online to deal with things. He will, for the nonce, avoid an aggressive response.

Detritus

04-14-2010, 04:47 PM

A'ight, I just need an action for Rosalyn. At the player's option, she may have a flashback instead of participating in this scene. The first half of the flashback is almost ready to post.

If you choose this option, Kal, I will probably end up giving Rosalyn the -10 point version of the Flashbacks disadvantage, and give her a couple of levels of Dominate to offset that. If I'm feeling especially self-indulgent, Rosalyn's Flashbacks would be a good way to work in some episodes from the past of some of the older NPCs in the campaign.

Kalzazz

04-14-2010, 09:58 PM

((Flashbacks sound cool))

Detritus

04-15-2010, 03:34 PM

As soon as Leo begins to approach Muaziz, she turns and bolts through the far door of the parlor (i.e. not the door that leads to the entryway of the mansion).

Meerlinda simply gestures for all the Tremere not standing over the Prince to follow. ((They'll exit after Leo, if Leo continues pursuit.))

Something in the Councilor's manner triggers a memory in Rosalyn. ((The memory will be posted in the Rosalyn character-sheet thread.))

"This is what happens when he loses control," the woman holding the bald man says to François. Eddie/Rat Tail is facing away from the room, hunched and huddled against the woman holding him.

"He has drawn out his Beast?" Wynn asks.

"Yes," the other strange woman says. "It can happen if Edward encounters too many strangers at once. I did not suspect we were coming to such a gathering right now. It might help if the crowd thinned out a bit more."

Gwynnis directs Anneke to take the Ramiel and Radeyah to help track down Muaziz. Rebekka includes the Sheriff in that group once they have gotten disentangled from each other and Jake. The Justicar takes a look at Rosalyn and exempts her from search duties. Wynn turns to take Roman with him.

"With your consent, Primogen," he says to François, "the others of your clan would likely be of some help in containing our Frenzied compatriot. If she were to circle around to the front of the building, perhaps."

The bald man is still turned away from the room. The tall man looks away and stretches, lifting his suit jacket enough to reveal sidearms holstered under each of his shoulders.

"One of you guys looking to stick your dick in the mashed potatoes, there?" he asks after he finishes stretching, eyeing the unsheathed swords.

Brother Brian

04-15-2010, 05:01 PM

Detritus

04-16-2010, 06:09 AM

"Oh, Jesus God, boys," the woman holding Rat Tail says, "get a room if you're going to swing your cods at each other! This isn't helping!"

"David," the other woman says, "maybe you should help corral the runaway. We can take care of your presentation after that." David looks at her for a moment, then turns with a shake of his head, saying, "Brujah are crazy, man," before following Wynn et al. out of the parlor.

((I have rolled Self-Control for François here, and he passed his roll. He needn't freak out at the manner of David's departure.))

"Speaking of which," the woman continues, "I had heard that New Orleans has recently undergone a change in management." She directs a quizzical look towards Rosalyn, who is staring off towards the far corner of the room with a hard expression on her face.

"Not her, Dru," Gwynnis says as both she and Rebekka come into normal conversational distance from Dru. The Justicar looks at Rat Tail's back and removes her eyepatch to reveal a seemingly whole eye. "She is not quite herself these days. A longer explanation will have to wait. It is Rebekka who now rules New Orleans."

"I meant no offense, Majesty," Dru says to Rebekka. "The nights when Sidana ruled Boston retain a certain freshness in my memory. As does her precipitous departure from the city."

"Do not concern yourself about it, Dru," replies Rebekka. "Rare indeed is the Kindred who can claim to have ruled three different cities; it is a natural supposition to make that she would have ascended to the throne here. However, it is Rosalyn, and not Sidana, whom you look upon right now."

"It is a matter of some explaining," Gwynnis says in answer to Dru's questioning look. "There is other business to attend to, though..."

"Of course," Dru says. "As is the Tradition, I recite the lineage of Dru, Malkavian of the 8th generation. My name is Dru. I am Malkavian. My sire is Mariel, Lady Thunder."

"Welcome to New Orleans, Dru," replies the Prince. "The Councilor you already know from your time together in Boston, of course, but this is Col. Leighton Beaumont, who will be Regent of the New Orleans Chantry." Rebekka then goes around the room making introductions.

"Jazz Wentworth of clan Ventrue. Elliott Sinclair and Jacob Cortland of clan Toreador. Camille Devereux of clan Gangrel. And François Petit of clan Brujah, as already noted."

"A pleasure to meet you. You must accept my apologies for the manner of our entrance. I'm afraid my childer can be an excitable lot at times. Brooke and Edward remain with us, and David has already been introduced, in a sense.

"I've also heard that you're searching for Sylvester Simms," Dru says. "I'm afraid I must report that he met with the Final Death a few months ago, in New York. We can supply more detail, but the chief witness to the events leading to his destruction is in need of composing himself."

Dru turns back to Brooke and Edward, who are both seated on the floor now. Edward leans against Brooke, and seems like he might have entered some sort of stuporous state.

Brother Brian

04-16-2010, 11:26 AM

Though managing to avoid his most violent of natures, Francois is clearly still perturbed and on edge.

"Dru, huh", he mutters loud enough to be heard. "I suppose that makes the reprobate who just walked out Spike. I can't wait for Buffy and Angel to arrive."

With that, Francois slides his rapier into it's sheath.

"Tell Spike that his mouth will get him into a great deal of trouble some day."

hidufel

04-16-2010, 11:50 AM

Brother Brian

04-16-2010, 12:09 PM

Realizing the events unfolding were becoming more civil.. Leighton sheaths his sword as well, and his walking cane is now once again whole. Stepping away from rebekkah to give her more room, he bows slightly towards Dru. "Madam." and turns to Francois. "you are expecting more to arrive?"

Francois looks at him. "Oh yes, many more. If we're lucky, we'll have a whole room full of Vampire Slayers."

He pauses, closing his eyes and inhaling deeply.

"I apologize; you are not a worthy target of my scorn. I do not expext others to arrive, I was making a reference to a poplular television program that I watched to help me understand the culture of the current era."

hidufel

04-16-2010, 12:56 PM

Leighton pauses a moment himself. "I... see. I seem to recall watching some sort of visual drama of the sort on this 'television'" the word sounded almost completely foreign to him when he says it. "hm sort sort of comedienne troupe... python something or other. I found the whole bullishness quite distracting, really." addressing the group at large, "now, back to our previous discussion?"

Huxley

04-17-2010, 12:49 PM

((They'll exit after Leo, if Leo continues pursuit.))

Leo chases after Muaziz to fix what needs fixing.

Detritus

04-17-2010, 10:55 PM

Dru's expression acquires a tint of long-suffering patience when the conversation turns to certain pop-culture elements. She makes an enigmatic remark about how lovely the campus of Wesleyan University is once the moment has passed.

"I do hope the rest of your court is as lively and charming as those we've already met, Majesty." Dru then turns to François.

"David is already well aware of my views concerning his occasional lapses in decorum. However, I must point out that he had no trouble restraining himself from venting his spleen in your direction until you approached him and his brood mates with naked steel in your hand. Do you often threaten Malkavians in the grips of their derangements? I myself find such an approach to be almost uniformly counterproductive."

Detritus

04-18-2010, 04:24 AM

Muaziz makes it out the back door of the mansion before you can catch up to her. You attempt pursuit but it's clear she's faster than you. Several Toreador and Tremere follow you outside, but Anneke nixes any pursuit.

"Let's just call her back," she says. "No sense in us haring around half the city, and it's too much of a risk for us to give ourselves enough of a speed boost to ensure that we can catch her, anyways."

"Might be a good chance to get in some practice in coordinating our efforts for the night we engage Sidana," says Dee Dee.

"What do you have in mind?"

"We get a few stakes, give them to those of us with the strength to pierce the sternum without too much effort, and have some magical backup in case things go awry."

"Will she be able to use her Thaumaturgy while Frenzied?" Anneke asks the Tremere.

"No," replies Thomas, then he gives it a little more thought. "Well, maybe, if she can do something she's so good at that she doesn't have to think how to do it at all. Of course, she'd have to figure out that she would need to do it first."

"Hmm, I'd guess that a Tremere archon would be pretty handy with fire, so that's something to watch out for," says the Sheriff. She looks around at your group, then makes assignments.

"The two of us for stakes," she says, indicating Anneke and herself. "And Leo, I think. You'll be our fourth," she says, pointing at Radeyah.

"Sheriff, you wound me," Ramiel says in mock affront.

"I just want to make sure that pretty face stays intact," the Sheriff replies, smirking.

"We should have the Summoner be in the last line of our formation," Anneke says, and she moves in the direction opposite of Muaziz's escape. "I'll make the call."

"The stakes?" Dee Dee asks of the Tremere. Sarah makes a grasping motion as she turns her palms upwards, and they each close on a pair of sharpened stakes. Merill gives the display a disapproving look, but Thomas just gives a rueful shake of his head while Sarah distributes the conjured stakes. Sabine pulls out her cell phone, having just received a text message.

"Camille says that one of the Malks inside is afraid of crowds. We shouldn't take Muaziz all the way back to the parlor."

"We've got to get her inside, though," says Dee Dee, "if we're going to keep her staked for any length of time. I guess that's the back porch for us, then. It's OK to tackle her if your first attacks misses."

"Everyone look sharp," Anneke says, and directs people until they're deployed as she likes. Dee Dee is in the center of the front line, with Leo to her left and Radeyah to her right. The Tremere form a box around Anneke and Ramiel. Moments later, Muaziz reappears, and dashes straight at Leo.

Brother Brian

04-20-2010, 11:00 AM

Francois looks at her as if she has suggested that they dance naked in a bonfire.

"That, upon violating a member of my Coiterie, your friend kept his head on his shoulders is tesiment to my decorum and understanding of Clan Malkavian. But in a time of war, I am not so foolish as to approach a stranger, who has offered first offense without any method of defending myself. I raised my sword not, and spoke with him in gentle tones, giving him all benefit of the doubt that I could without placing myself in undue Jeopardy.

Francois' voice dripse venom as he continues. "So my dear suffering child of Malkov, if you feel I have wronged you, call Spike back in and demand redress. I warn you though, when his spleen next vents, it will be because my rapier is piercing it. Otherwise, you can wipe that look off your face when dealing with me, and advise me not on matters of security.

Should you want satisfaction, I will make myself available to you. Until then, I will suffer no more of your lunacy."

With that, he snaps his heels together so forcefully that the sound penetrates the large room, spins, and marches away from the silly woman.

Huxley

04-20-2010, 02:26 PM

...
"Everyone look sharp," Anneke says, and directs people until they're deployed as she likes. Dee Dee is in the center of the front line, with Leo to her left and Radeyah to her right. The Tremere form a box around Anneke and Ramiel. Moments later, Muaziz reappears, and dashes straight at Leo.

Leo posts his feat into a position ready to be tackled, and begins pumping blood into his muscles. (Potence)

Detritus

04-20-2010, 07:26 PM

Detritus

04-21-2010, 12:47 AM

You strengthen yourself and spread your feet, crouching just a little as Muaziz approaches. She attempts to evade you, but you flow to your left, and manage to plant your left shoulder squarely into her midsection. Her feet raise upwards off the ground as well as forward as you straighten and then complete your tackle, pinning Muaziz to the ground. She begins to squirm in your hold. In a few seconds, Dee Dee comes over to help restrain her.

What now?

Huxley

04-21-2010, 02:44 PM

Detritus

04-21-2010, 05:50 PM

"If you have any disciplines with which to soothe her I recommend their use" spurts Leo at Dee Dee.

He attempts to hold Muaziz so that it is difficult to squirm. He "shushes" into her ear and whispers, "It's time for calm". Then he proceeds to bite her on the neck.
You sink your teeth into Muaziz's neck. Her struggles subside immediately, but the potency of her Frenzied vitae is too much for you to resist. You begin to drink, and as soon as you do, you feel your Beast rising to the surface, drawing you perilously close to your own Frenzy.

"Are you out of your mind?" Dee Dee yells at you, but it has no affect on your actions. You continue drinking until several pairs of hands physically drag you off Muaziz's body. You shake your head and see the rest of the Tremere clan who came outside with you standing over you, having come over en masse after you began feeding on Muaziz. Anneke is there as well.

"That certainly was interesting technique," Anneke says. "Fortunately, it seems to have worked."

You looked over to see a dazed but relatively calm Muaziz lying back against Dee Dee.

"What on earth possessed you to drink the blood of a frenzied vampire?" the Sheriff asks.

Huxley

04-21-2010, 11:27 PM

Detritus

04-22-2010, 12:00 AM

Leo pauses a moment and gains his bearings before answering.

"Not to boast but in general, and in comparison to many, I have a reasonable amount of self control. Additionally, in comparison to a Justicar, my suspicion is that I would be easier to subdue"

Leo shrugs, "Perhaps there were better actions, but that is more an afterthought. What would you suggest in the future?"
"I didn't see much in the way of self-control just now," Thomas says dryly.

Dee Dee gives no verbal response, but frees her right arm and throws the stake she's holding. It comes at you with surprising speed, considering that she is still tangled up with Muaziz, but Anneke sidles over and reaches down to pluck the stake from midair. She hands both her and the Sheriff's stakes back to Sarah.

"Come the night when we engage our enemies," she says to everyone gathered there, "you'll be free to liberate as much vitae as you can from our foes. It can be difficult to tell, however, what one's intentions are when using such methods amongst allies."

Detritus

04-26-2010, 01:27 PM

Dru opens her mouth but cuts off whatever she is she's about to say at a look from the Prince. She does still roll her eyes, but remains silent. Brooke tries to rouse Eddie, but has no luck.

"We'll table any duels for later," Rebekka says. "I'm a bit surprised that you would bring Edward to a Conclave, Dru."

"It seemed to me that his testimony was important. I was under the impression that it was still a few nights before the Conclave starts. I mentioned it as a possible issue to this Muaziz, but she didn't seem too concerned about it."

"There were a number of Kindred who only arrived a few minutes before you did," replies the Prince. "A bit of bad fortune, I would say. Yet, there is still a matter that might require redress.

"Are you well?" Rebekka asks Jake. "Muaziz managed to land quite a forceful blow."

***After Jake's reply Rebekka will direct Camille to inform someone outside of the necessity to stay away from the parlor until further notice.***
Dru looks down at Brooke and Eddie, then to Jake.

"I must insist that you avail yourself of the hospitality that would be the due of my childer and me as new arrivals to the city," she says to you. Brooke's head snaps upwards in surprise, but she then gives a grudging nod of acquiescence.

"Is there anything else we might do?" Dru asks, taking in both you and Rebekka in her question. The Prince considers for a moment, the answers.

"There is a delivery scheduled for tomorrow evening that Jake will be picking up. At sea, as it turns out. It would be helpful to have you or some of the more lucid of your Get to accompany him."

"I think David and Brooke would both be available for that. Brooke?"

"You mean you want me to keep David out of the hair of everyone else in the city. Fine. You'll have to take care of Eddie if he's still like this tomorrow." Dru nods and turns to Rebekka.

"Will that be acceptable?"

"That's not up to me." The Prince turns to you and says, "You're under no obligation to accept either offer, of course. If I am reading things correctly, Dru is assuming any obligations towards you that have arisen as a result of the attack on your person."

"That's right," says Dru."

"In that case," the Prince says, "Dru owes you a boon, as we call it. Accepting the offer of both blood and protection would discharge her obligation towards you. You are free instead to call in the favor at some later time. It would be something at a level similar to what is presently being offered. I ask Dru's question: will her present offer be acceptable?"

Chimaera

04-27-2010, 12:31 PM

"I won't turn down the offer of Vitae right now; having a broken collarbone is a bit of a downer. As for back-up for tomorrow night, well, no offense, but I'd prefer to go with back-up that I know. I'm sure we can come to a satisfactory alternative arrangement later on."

Detritus

04-28-2010, 03:38 AM

"That is your right," Rebekka says. Dru inclines her head and says, "As you wish," before turning back towards the other elders in the room.

"There's still Edward here," she says, looking more at the Justicar than any of the other elders. Gwynnis goes over and crouches in front of Rat Tail and Brooke.

"Edward," she says softly, but this does not elicit a reaction.

"Eddie," she says, but still no luck.

"C'mon, Eddie, you need to tell everyone what happened to Uncle Sylvester," says Brooke. A few seconds pass in silence, after which she gives a tight-lipped shake of her head.

"Rat Tail," Gwynnis finally says, and he turns his head a little and jerks his eyes towards the Justicar after being so addressed. He still does not speak, though.

Gwynnis reaches out to move Rat Tail's thin braid from over his shoulder. Her hand brushes his neck, prompting him to take a gasping breath inwards. Brooke's eyes bulge slightly and she takes her own breath, the sound more of a hiss than a gasp as she inhales through her teeth.

You notice that Rebekka has closed her eyes, lost in some remembrance. As you look around the room, several others have similar reactions -- Dru, Elliott, even Rosalyn and the Councilor. Rat Tail finally speaks, drawing all eyes back to him. The Justicar is no longer touching him.

"Aunt Gwen," he says. He looks around the room. "How did I get down here?" he asks while scrambling to his feet. Gwynnis rises smoothly from her crouch, not losing her balance for even an instant as she does. Brooke helps Rat Tail stand while remaining seated, then takes hold of his hips to help pull herself upwards. She somehow manages to be both languid and precise in her movements.

"The room was a little more crowded when you first arrived, I'm afraid."

"Oh," Rat Tail replies in a small voice. "He got out again, didn't he? I'm sorry."

"I think it will be OK," Gwynnis says. "Will you come upstairs with me and tell me what happened to Sylvester? It could be very important."

"OK."

"We'll be in the reading room," Gwynnis says to Rebekka, her eyes flicking towards Rosalyn for a moment. Dru takes Rat Tail, sends Brooke out to fetch David, and then the Malkavians all follow the Justicar upstairs.

"I believe Edward's recovery also means that the others have managed to subdue Muaziz," says Rebekka. "Camille, will you please tell Sabine that all is clear in here? And send for Kallista to bring down the others with her and the Seneschal. There should be just enough time to feed before those given the Summons will arrive."

Detritus

04-28-2010, 03:47 AM

One note from the previous post, Rosalyn will recall that Gwynnis has an advanced Presence power with which she can emulate the effect of the Kiss just by touching someone. There are a number of elders in the room who have experienced this firsthand, which is what prompts their reactions while Gwynnis is coaxing Rat Tail to some semblance of lucidity.

Once Camille does as Rebekka has requested, there will be one more post in this thread. I'd like to turn the crank to tomorrow night. This means having Bobby and Annie making temporary haven at the mansion during the day before Jake interviews Bobby. It's a bit unnatural, but there's a lot going on tomorrow night, enough for everyone to be involved:

Jake has an interview, then a weapons shipment to pick up.

François and Leo will have a quick planning session, then the meeting with the Garou at Storyville Jazz Hall.

Rosalyn will receive a visitor, one of Sidana's childer. This may shake loose some more memories, though I don't have anything specific planned as a flashback at the moment.

I'll get the last post up in this thread as soon as I'm able, hopefully tomorrow morning.

Detritus

04-29-2010, 01:35 AM

OK, the next post will be the last one in this thread, not this one. There is enough stage-setting that I feel it merits its own separate post. Here is what happens and how everyone is arranged while the Summons for Annie and Bobby continues:

Gwynnis and the Malkavians are still upstairs.

All the Tremere are gone except for the Prince and Sabine. Meerlinda said something about "inspecting" Muaziz that brought a momentary chill to your bones, despite the fact that her face and voice were perfectly neutral when she said it.

Everyone who was entitled to feed has fed, and Mr. Johnson's herd cleared from the parlor. Jake's collarbone is now healed. During feeding time, Rebekka leans against the far wall of the parlor, seeming to meditate. It's obvious, however, that she's drawn the power of Majesty into her aspect. She does not feed.

All the other Toreador save Gwynnis are present: all four of Gwynnis's childer, Mr. Johnson's three active childer, and Elliott. All others (besides the Tremere) who were outside trying to corral Muaziz have also returned to the parlor.

Once feeding time is over, Rebekka directs Wynn and Dee Dee to either side of the parlor doorway, and Bonnie directly within it. She then sets up a line of Kindred at the head of the room as follows:

Elliott-Anneke-Jake-Rebekka-Ramiel-Radeyah-Kallista

The Prince then directs the remaining Kindred in two lines that outline the path from the door to the area in front of the line of Kindred at the head of the parlor. The Brujah (François, Uma, Yuri, Antoinette) and Sabine form one line, and the Gangrel (Camille, Roman), Leo, Rosalyn, and Jazz form the other. Sabine and Camille stand furthest from the door, Roman stands next to Camille, and François is nearest the door (i.e. all the Kindred with whom Annie might be familiar are closer to the Prince).

The Kindred in the lines from the door to the presentation area are free to fall in wherever they see fit behind the guests of honor once they have arrived.

Detritus

04-29-2010, 05:54 PM

((I've kind of fallen into pure narration mode, which I want to get out of ASAP, but I want this scene to be just so, so I'm indulging myself in the moment for a bit. Annie's presentation will follow this post. If you want to make reactions after Bobby's presentation, that's OK, though you don't have to, either.))

Shortly after everyone is arranged to the Prince's specifications, you hear the front door of the mansion opening. Bonnie turns in the doorway.

"This way, please," the Seneschal says, and then she turns and begins moving through the assembled Kindred lining the path to the Prince. Two people follow the Seneschal, a stunningly beautiful woman that matches the one whom Jake had named Annie, who appears familiar to many Kindred in the room, and a scruffy youth whom no one seems to recognize that presumably is Bobby. Wynn falls in behind Annie, and Dee Dee behind Bobby.

"Rebekka of Clan Tremere, Prince of New Orleans, I bring two petitioners before you," the Seneschal says once the group surrounding the newcomers has completed its way through the lines of Kindred, "petitioners who have not yet presented themselves before your Majesty, as is the Tradition."

"Thank you, Seneschal," the Prince says quietly, though the softness of her voice does not diminish the authority she projects. "Please take your place."

Bonnie moves between the newcomers, and takes up a station directly opposite Rebekka, but two steps behind the newcomers. Bobby stands opposite Jake, a few steps separating them, and Annie opposite Ramiel. Dee Dee stands opposite Anneke, and Wynn opposite Radeyah, and they're both even with Bonnie, behind the newcomers. The Prince turns her gaze first to Bobby, who seems to wilt slightly under its intensity.

"Will you please state your name, your clan, and your sire's name?"

Bobby begins to back away, an almost involuntary movement, when Dee Dee cuts off his retreat. He turns after bumping into her, and she activates her own Majesty after he turns.

"Answer the Prince," the Sheriff hisses. Bobby tries to look at Annie, but Bonnie interposes herself, and activates her Majesty. The Seneschal deigns not to speak, however, and simply points toward the Prince. Bobby finally turns back towards Rebekka, sinking to his knees as he does.

"Bobby," he says, "Bobby Weathers. Of Clan Toreador."

"And your sire?" the Prince asks.

"My sire is Mr. Johnson."

Rebekka holds her silence after Bobby names his sire. The silence stretches, and Bobby seems to wilt even further under the scrutiny of the Prince's cold gaze.

"Does anyone here, save the other petitioner, recognize this man from before tonight?" the Prince asks, but further silence is the only answer.

"Bobby Weathers of clan Toreador, childe of Mr. Johnson, it would seem that you have not been well educated in the ways of the Kindred. I will explain to you one of our most basic laws, what is called the Third Tradition, the Tradition of the Accounting. That law states that the sire is responsible for all the actions of the childe until such time as the sire deems the childe fit to be acknowledged in Kindred society at large.

"None here can attest to your very existence prior to this evening, let alone whether your sire had ever released you. And it is my sad duty to inform you that your sire, the former Prince of New Orleans, was destroyed a few nights ago, although he lost his grip on power due to gross mismanagement even before he was destroyed. Thus, as the new Prince of New Orleans, the decision to release you into Kindred society falls to me. You have no rights in our society until I say you do, and you live or die solely at my whim until such time as you are released."

The Prince takes two measured steps towards Bobby before continuing with her dressing down of him.

"I expect any questions I ask of you to be answered promptly and thoroughly. You may consider any messenger I send to you to speak with my voice on the matters for which they are given the express authority to do so. You have defied one such messenger tonight, and therefore you will be required to make temporary haven here, where the questions I wish you to answer will be asked after today's sunset.

"If you wish to avoid being called on the carpet in this manner in the future, then heed the following. Fair dealings with me, the officers of the city, and my messengers will be repaid with honor. Recalcitrance will be repaid with audiences similar to this one, and treachery," the Prince says, in a low, deadly voice, "will be repaid with iron might. You may leave us."

"Come on," Dee Dee says, "on your feet, boy-o, unless you want me to drag you upstairs." Bobby stands a little unsteadily, but offers no resistance when the Sheriff leads him from the room.

Detritus

04-30-2010, 12:19 AM

Rebekka turns to Annie, who had been watching Bobby's presentation with increasing wariness. She immediately makes a small curtsy when the Prince's attention falls on her.

"As is the Tradition, I recite the lineage of Andrea Thibodeaux, Toreador of the 9th Generation.

"My name is Andrea Thibodeaux. I am Toreador. My sire is Mr. Johnson."

"As it so happens," the Prince says, "this is something of a family reunion." She then gives Anneke a nod before continuing with Annie. "I'm sure you recognize several of those gathered here with me, but it might be the case that some introductions are in order. May I introduce Elliott Sinclair, sire of Mr. Johnson."

Elliott steps a half-stride forward and inclines his head without saying anything before moving back into the line of Kindred with Rebekka.

"And his sire, Anneke."

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance," Anneke says, stepping forward. "It's always a pleasure, meeting someone in the family line."

"The pleasure is all mine," Annie replies in a guarded tone.

"Such a charming young lass," Anneke says, a sardonic smile appearing on her lips. "I am sure that my sire, Gwynnis, Toreador of the 5th Generation, will be pleased to meet you as well." When Anneke finishes, the Justicar's voice can be heard as she descends the stairway to the first floor of the mansion.

"And Gwynnis, Toreador of the 5th Generation, childe of Taliesin, childe of Arikel, Justicar of Clan Toreador," she says, finally entering the parlor, "is wondering what is so deucedly important that someone felt the need to Summon her from a very important interview upstairs while simple introductions are being made."

"Forgive me, sire," says Anneke, "but I thought you would like to meet Annie."

"Ah, Mr. Johnson's prodigal daughter," Gwynnis says. "Wonderful, wonderful. I've been looking forward to meeting you. And the other?"

"He is in the Sheriff's custody upstairs," replies Rebekka.

"Very good," says Gwynnis.

The Justicar then extends her right hand. Annie looks down at it for a moment before deciding that prudence dictates that she should take the proffered hand. Upon grasping it, she reacts as if touching a live electrical wire.

"Are you quite well?" the Justicar asks, and she extends her left hand towards Annie's forehead, as if checking for fever. Annie gasps as if doused with cold water when the Justicar's hand makes contact.

"A bit twitchy, isn't she?" Gwynnis asks the assembled New Orleans natives. "No one mentioned that she was this excitable."

The Justicar then releases her grip and withdraws her hand. Annie staggers backwards, and cannot stop herself before she backs into Rebekka. She whirls, baring her fangs.

"I would not lose control, were I you," the Prince says. "No good will come of it." With an effort, Annie manages to control herself.

"Forgive me, my Prince," she says.

"Think nothing of it," the Prince replies. "As you have no doubt noticed, there are a few prominent absences amongst the city's Kindred from the days when you were last here, including one Samantha Drake. Anything you might be able to tell us about her could be helpful."

"I'd certainly like to get my hands on her," says Gwynnis.

"I'll see what I can do," Annie replies. "If it pleases your Majesty, may I withdraw now?"

"There's one more thing. The Hospitality of New Orleans. Given the circumstances of our introduction," Rebekka says, but she does not complete her thought verbally. Instead, she nicks her left index finger, and with a flourish of her right hand conjures a crystal wine glass. She lets vitae flow from her finger until a swallow's worth fills the glass before licking the wound on her finger shut.

"To your health," Rebekka says. "Accept the Hospitality of New Orleans with my compliments."

"With all due respect, Majesty, gracious as your offer is, I would prefer to decline it."

"I do not recall couching the offer in terms of a request," the Prince replies, a hint of a sneer appearing on her lips. "Drink." With obvious reluctance, Annie takes the glass and drains its contents.

"Thank you," the Prince says. "So long as you do not interfere with the operation of the city, or impede the efforts of the city's officers, or my agents, I will not require a second drink. Should you fail to conform to these guidelines, however, a second drink will surely be in your future, and a third, if necessary. Have I made myself clear?"

"Perfectly clear, Majesty," Annie replies, her voice subdued.

"Very well," Rebekka says, "I believe we can declare the formal court closed for the night. No doubt you have much catching up to do, with so many of your former city mates at hand. You're welcome to stay the day here as well."

"I must return to my interview," says Gwynnis.

"Yes, and I'd like to look in on Muaziz," says Rebekka. The Prince and the Justicar leave the parlor together.

"Dismissed," Bonnie says dryly. Ramiel and Radeyah bracket Annie, impeding her departure, and Camille comes up to the three of them, further hemming her in.

((As before, reactions are welcome, but not required.))