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Role Playing Games => Drakilian's Games => Vampire The Masquerade => Topic started by: Drakilian on January 21, 2015, 09:37:35 pm

Title: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 21, 2015, 09:37:35 pm
Act One: The Summoning Spring

Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. —Revelations 1:3
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 05:57:18 pm
The Year is 1198, and though no one knows it, the Long Night is coming to a close. Cainites everywhere are finding that the peasant’s superstitious fears of their ‘lords’ is beginning to fade.

Across Europe the Methuselahs rise, reshaping the political landscape of the night. In Bavaria High Lord Hardestadt draws vassal states into an army of the damned, In Paris the Matriarch, Salianna, Childe of Michael, has begun to spin her web amongst the Queens of France, creating a grand court with which to insulate herself. In London, Mithras calls out to the followers of his old cults and begins making bargains with the Barons of England. The Iberian Peninsula is home to Lord Montano, master of the Sea of Shadows, wrapping his tendrils around the heart of the Mediterranean. While in Eastern Europe the Voivodate of the Tzimisce have acknowledged one of their own as the Voivode amongst Voivodes, Vladimir Rustovitch now acts as a high general of their armies. One of these Courts, a compact of eastern princes acting as a bulwark against the Tzimisce that called itself The Council of Ash, under the Lady Nova Arpad, has already begun to crumble; the Princes of the Siebenburgen turning on one another due to the machinations of one of their own, of the original seven, only four remain.

Even as the eldest among the Cainites stir, the youngest become restless. Furores roam the night, preaching their gospel of rebellion while heretics amongst the Cainite Heresy Blaspheme against the Lord. Elders whisper fearfully that the childer must be watched just as those same childer worry at their master’s unholy thirst; all while the Omen War rages across Transylvania, as the ancient Fiends battle against the Usurpers who presume to call themselves a Clan of Caine.

It is here that our story begins. Radu of Bistritz, a Prince of Transylvania, Childe of Vysia, brings together a Conspiracy of emissaries, hoping to consolidate his hold over his territory and hold off the Eastern Lords.

Only time will tell if they succeed…
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 08:54:26 pm
Anton Petrov Veranin, Ashen Knight of Sofia
The Domain of Basilio the Elder,
Prince of Sofia


Anton's eyes are closed. He sees darkness. Endless, deadening darkness that extends as far as can be seen. He can see nothing, feel nothing, hear nothing - not even the sound of his heart, which had stopped beating long ago. He feels cold - even now, when the intricacies of warmth and cold mean nothing to him. He's felt cold ever since he came back from the Abyss - it's nice, he thinks sometimes, that he is so cold. Warmth is comforting, and he has no right to such pleasures. Not anymore.

His eyes still closed, Anton feels darkness filling him, merging with him. He feels his soul turn a dark shade of black, tainted as what he imagines a demon's soul would look like.

Anton opens his eyes. They are black as the darkest night.

The adulterer lies in front of him, bruised and battered. She had screamed so loudly, confessed so surely, promised so much - but her penance was not done. Not yet. Only through great pain may one repent.

Then he hears the knocking. Someone upstairs? Who could be visiting him now, at this time of night?

Steeple Carson Olaf Trevesky The Fourth, Cash Cow
Domain of Rudolf Brangl,
Prince of Prague


Steeple sits attentively, staring at a rock on the table before him. The rock is decent-sized - about the size of one's hand, and is quite smooth; round but with a slightly flat bottom so that it always rests on one side. It is also a light shade of grey, but more importantly, it is incredibly intelligent. Indeed, Steeple is sitting attentively as he listens to the rock - Prince Maurice - 's stunning business acumen at work, as he discusses the current economic situation in Transylvannia and the way current vampiric influences might affect it. He councils investing in salt mining particularly.

Prince Maurice goes on to say  - "You may feed now."

Steeple, finally allowed to stop listening to the Prince's boring speech about salt vampires or whatever, has his maid Nadia (who had been sitting there for the past half hour, listening to the one-sided conversation) lay her neck bare. He reaches over with his one arm and grabs her by the back of her neck, bringing his fangs to her throat. She groans ecstatically as the sweet sensation of the Kiss washes over her. Licking the wound closed, Steeple lies back contentedly into his comfortable, velvet couch/throne in his silken robes - only to to treated to extremely loud knocking. Angrily loud, one could say.

Lucien Lupei, Fleshcrafter
Domain of Sandor,
Vovoide of Arad


Lucien sits at his haven, thinking idly.

Sandor had left hours ago without notice - the mighty Koldun had melded into the wind and disappeared into the night, temporarily leaving the Voivoidate in Lucien's hands.

He feels honoured that his sire would trust him so, even if ever so briefly. Ennius stands silently to his right, as he always has since entering the Tzimisce's undying service. The knight errant does not shift an inch, as still as an empty suit of armour.

He traces his finger lightly over the table in front of him, and feels it shudder. A mouth that has been sewn closed near the inkwell tries to scream but is unable, producing only light, muffled sounds. The eyes by the table's edge are always uncovered though, they stare, bloodshot, at the vampire in front of them.

Sandor knew quite well how to punish disobedient ghouls.

Lucien then hears the telltale snarl of an approaching schlatza - the slight shuffling limp of a new ghoul who struggles with their radically changed body.

Kiril Petrov Veranin, Imposter
The Domain of Basilio the Elder,
Prince of Sofia


Kiril stands in a patch of shadow cast by a large pear tree. He remembers the pear tree - or rather, he remembers Kiril talking about how he loved the pear tree. Walking around it, tracing his hand along the edge of the wooden thing he identifies a small, wooden knothole at around head-height where Kiril told him he kept all his secret things. Kiril's hand brushes briefly against a silver coin and a small dagger that the boy had said he used to keep in the knothole. Kiril put them back when he returned from Byzantium.

He looks over his old estate, breathes in and takes in old scents. Along with new.

The Cullar Revenant family established itself some few days after Kiril was turned. Basilio requested firmly that his servant move his estate to a different place within the city, as he needed Kiril's current estate for the revenants who would be coming from Spain to help oversee the elder's operations in the city. Kiril hated them.

He was forced to agree, lest he disappoint the elder, but every night the knowledge that the land he won was taken from him burned in the back of his mind, an urgent, painful needle constantly burrowing itself ever-deeper into his mind. Things had escalated when he killed one of the family members a month ago when they'd approached him. Trespassing over his sacred ground.

There had been no further conflict, but he knew the family was only bidding its time.

Kiril turns away from his land and returns home. His family should asleep at the moment, it is fairly late in the night. Carinus has obeyed his master's command to stay away from his family, and has been out tonight. Kiril has an unpleasant suspicion that the mild-mannered man was out hunting.

As he returns home Kiril notes an enclosed wagon - such as those used to transport vampires - pulled by two black horses - waiting. The driver is nowhere in sight.

Did Basilio come to visit? No, it couldn't be - the Prince had left some weeks prior to this, saying he had to handle some clan business. What was this?

Heldric Haikans, the Diseased Rat
Somewhere


It's dark, and cold and damp. It always is here.

Heldric hears growling and snuffling in the dark - it's Andreas. He hears the crocodile reply, a low rumbling snarl can be felt running through the albino creature's body under Heldric's hand.

No, just another rat

Heldric thinks back to Constantinople, the city's towering spires, beautiful churches, he thinks of Michael, the glorious vampiric archangel and his lover The Dracon. He misses the city, but he remembers Malachite's directives.

Spread the Dream my childe. Build beauty in the world, let all know that greatness can be achieved by us, a lasting greatness that will endure the ages.

Here he is now, in his dark, dank cave in the depths of Transylvannia.

There is a sudden very loud crash as Andreas growls in frustration and strikes the wall - his fist crushing stone into powder and making the walls shake.

He then roars loudly. The albino's body vibrates slightly in response.

He is frustrated with this. We are doing nothing here, he says.

Then the Albino and Andreas both Freeze - and Heldric can soon sense why. The sound of horses, a carriage, footsteps through the muck.

Someone is coming.

Sylvian Bastian Beaulieu, Divine Artist
Domain of Count Radu Bistri,
Prince of Bistritz


Sylvian sighs.

The painting is imperfect, as always. The green is never quite the right, lush shade that he needs it to be to capture the vibrant life of this beautiful land's forests.

He feels inflamed. This land seems to have that effect on him - it's so beautiful, so enticing, and makes him feel so possessive. He feels impotent when compared to it, when his works are shown beside it.

Aldric knocks at the door - opening it soon after. He sees Sylvian's new painting and sighs - though unlike Sylvian, not in disappointment. He rushes forward and closes his eyes, taking in even the scent of the drying paint on the canvas before opening his eyes and enjoying the painting. Sylvian can tell that his servant is using his intensely heightened senses, as he always does, to take in the painting.

"Perfect my lord. Dazzling."

Sylvian is not convinced. The happy fool's reaction to every single work he made was universally the same. He still failed to capture Transylvannia.

After a small while, Sylvian hears a rough voice call up - it's Odi.

"My lord, someone is here for you."

Sylvian suspects that Aldric had been sent up here with that purpose, but had been distracted of course.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 23, 2015, 09:16:00 pm
Could have been worse. He could have put his head on a hound's head. That's worse. Probably. He thought to himself. He then smirks, imagining his head on a dog body.

"Hmm?" he said, as he waited in the ghoul.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 09:26:19 pm
The ghoul wordlessly hands Lucien a large envelope. It then waits to be given a new order.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 23, 2015, 09:31:22 pm
Kiril attempts to summon dark steel arms, wrapping the shadows protectively around him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 23, 2015, 09:34:22 pm
Lucien takes the envelope and begins to open it up. He stops though and looks up at the ghoul. "Go back to whatever you were doing." He said with a tone of authority and waved him off. he then went back to opening the envelope, curious as to who'm might send him a letter.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 09:46:53 pm
Kiril

Kiril attempts to summon dark steel arms, wrapping the shadows protectively around him.

From the shadows under the folds of his clothing slink out eight dark tendrils. They spread out from under his clothing menacingly and (presumably) protectively.

Lucien

Lucien takes the envelope and begins to open it up. He stops though and looks up at the ghoul. "Go back to whatever you were doing." He said with a tone of authority and waved him off. he then went back to opening the envelope, curious as to who'm might send him a letter.

The ghoul uncertainly shakes its head - Lucien looks at it again. What is this ghoul that would dare defy its master? It still seems to be waiting for Lucien, almost expectantly.

Perhaps it needed to do something after he read the letters? Doubtful that a ghoul would be so disobedient when Lucien was (quite literally) seated by the last (now furniture shaped) ghoul that dared question his orders.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 23, 2015, 10:01:28 pm
Kiril conceals the tentacles for now.  Where is the wagon's driver? Or occupant, for that matter?

 It's too late at night for this to be a social call. Are the intruders inside, with his family?  Kiril hurries home.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 23, 2015, 10:12:09 pm
Lucien sighs. "You're not stupid enough to defy me.. i hope." Lucien said to the ghoul. "Oh who am i kidding. I'd love it. i think we have room for a desk." he looks at the ghoul. "or maybe not a desk. A table perhaps." he seizes him up. "Perhaps." He lets out a amused smirk at the (most likely terrifyed) ghoul. "But you know better." He looks disappointed.

"You expect a reply no doubt. Alright, lets see what we got here." he said to him, and began reading the letter.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 10:19:54 pm
Kiril

Kiril conceals the tentacles for now.  Where is the wagon's driver? Or occupant, for that matter?

 It's too late at night for this to be a social call. Are the intruders inside, with his family?  Kiril hurries home.

The tendrils come under his clothes, a rustle audible as they flow underneath it, a ripple spreading through his garments.

He rushes to the house driven by fear for his wards. He quickly (but silently opens the door) and moves through the house.

The telltalle flicker of candlelight is visible in the kitchen dining room - Kiril rushes there almost immediately. There he sees his son Alec with a stranger - dark haired, smooth skin and fine features. They both speak in low voices and go silent at his approach.

When the stranger sees Kiril, he smiles and gets up, bowing his head in polite greeting and begins saying something - something that Kiril cannot hear..

Kiril feels the Beast rise within himself at this... this intruder.

But he forces the Beast down. Not here, not in front of his son. This man was no enemy.

He looks at Kiril, a bit concerned, and repeats himself.

"My lord Kiril? Basilio sends his regards, as well as this - " He pulls out from his coat a large, sealed envelope.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 23, 2015, 10:32:30 pm
Kiril stands still, not taking the envelope yet-- not trusting himself to reach for it without a dark tendril choking the life from the intruder in his house.

Why did Alec allow a stranger to enter their house, so late at night?  Where were the servants, watching the door was their job?

The hidden shadows writhe, longing to tear the servant to pieces.  he constricts them against himself, and takes the envelope. 
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 10:34:52 pm
Lucien

Lucien sighs. "You're not stupid enough to defy me.. i hope." Lucien said to the ghoul. "Oh who am i kidding. I'd love it. i think we have room for a desk." he looks at the ghoul. "or maybe not a desk. A table perhaps." he seizes him up. "Perhaps." He lets out a amused smirk at the (most likely terrifyed) ghoul.

"You expect a reply no doubt. Alright, lets see what we got here." he said to him, and began reading the letter.

The ghoul moves back, frightened, but does not leave. Ennius remains immobile - though Lucien feels like he almost moved there for a second.

Inside the envelope are two letters - one bears the distinct seal of his sire, a three headed serpent with shark, curved scales and human eyes, written on parchment paper, there is no question as to whether or not it is genuine.


My Childe,

It is my wish that you join me in the market square close by the stocks in the Castle District of Buda-Pest on the tenth hour of the evening of the fifteenth day of April, the Year of Our Lord 1198. There, you shall be introduced to an ally of mine who wishes to become your patron. Your future might be assured should you agree to this patron’s offer. Further, it would please me greatly for you to accept as I have already accepted for you, pending your agreement. Do not fail me, but come at once. The bearer of this letter is a trusted servant and will arrange transportation for you.

Your Sire,

Sandor, Vovoide of Arad


An invitation accompanies the letter. It is a gilt-edged parchment rolled into scroll form and bound with red ribbons appended to the document with red sealing wax. The design of a partial crest is pressed into the wax - Lucien recongizes it as that of Radu Bistri, Prince of Bistritz.


Though I am unacquainted with you, I feel that we share a bond through your sire, who is my ally. As you are the dutiful childer of your sires, I request that you meet with me at the market square near the stocks in the Castle District of Buda-Pest on the fifteenth day of April of this year at the tenth hour of the night. I would like to put before you a proposition that may lead to great gains for each of you and closer alliances among us.If you wish to hear more, attend me on the date specified.

I Hope to Become,

Your Patron


Lucien notes the wording - "dutiful childer of your sires"? So he is not alone in this venture?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 10:40:15 pm
Kiril

Kiril stands still, not taking the envelope yet-- not trusting himself to reach for it without a dark tendril choking the life from the intruder in his house.

Why did Alec allow a stranger to enter their house, so late at night?  Where were the servants, watching the door was their job?

The hidden shadows writhe, longing to tear the servant to pieces.  he constricts them against himself, and takes the envelope.

Inside the envelope are two letters - one bears the distinct seal of his sire, a large, heavy square-rigged Galleon on a sea where the waves rose up in a storm of darkness. It is written on parchment paper and there is no question as to whether or not it is genuine.

(See Lucien's letter)

An invitation accompanies the letter. It is a gilt-edged parchment rolled into scroll form and bound with red ribbons appended to the document with red sealing wax. The design of a partial crest is pressed into the wax - Kiril recognizes it as that of Radu Bistri, Prince of Bistritz.

(See Lucien's letter)

Kiril notes the wording - "dutiful childer of your sires"? So he is not alone in this venture?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 23, 2015, 10:47:26 pm
"At. . . once? I'm to leave with you immediately?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 10:50:50 pm
Kiril

"At. . . once? I'm to leave with you immediately?"

The stranger nods.

"I apologize for the suddenness of the departure but Lord Basilio's orders are quite clear. Your brother Anton should be getting this very same message right now."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 23, 2015, 10:54:15 pm
"Wait for me outside, I'll be there momentarily."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 10:57:02 pm
Kiril

"Wait for me outside, I'll be there momentarily."

"Of course Lord Kiril."

The stranger leaves, briefly nodding his goodbyes to Alec.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 23, 2015, 11:00:43 pm
Once the stranger is safely outside, Kiril turns to his son.

"What were you thinking? Why did you let him in?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 23, 2015, 11:06:56 pm
Kiril

Once the stranger is safely outside, Kiril turns to his son.

"What were you thinking? Why did you let him in?"

Alec scoffs derisively.

"What, I cannot welcome visitors into my own household now?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 23, 2015, 11:22:12 pm
"well thats interesting." He said out loud to noone in particular.  "Ennius, if you got anything you wish to take with you i suggest you get it immedietly. We have business to attend too."

Then with a pleasing smile he said to the ghoul "it appears that you're a 'trusted' servant. And we don't have any room for more unfortunately."

"And i hope you planned for a way to take Joseph with us. Not leaving without him. oh, i should probarly get some stuff.... eh i can get that later when i've arrenged some kind of haven."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 03:00:43 am
Lucien

"well thats interesting." He said out loud to noone in particular.  "Ennius, if you got anything you wish to take with you i suggest you get it immedietly. We have business to attend too."

Then with a pleasing smile he said to the ghoul "it appears that you're a 'trusted' servant. And we don't have any room for more unfortunately."

"And i hope you planned for a way to take Joseph with us. Not leaving without him. oh, i should probarly get some stuff.... eh i can get that later when i've arrenged some kind of haven."

The schlatza nods and then moves out - clearly expecting Lucien to follow him.

Should Lucien follow the ghoul, he will find an enclosed wagon drawn by two horses, each black as night. Lucien deduces that Joseph could probably ride alongside the wagon fairly easily.

Clearly he is intended to rest in the wagon by day and continue travelling by night, never truly stopping to rest.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 24, 2015, 07:01:44 am
Steeple lies back contentedly into his comfortable, velvet couch/throne in his silken robes - only to to treated to extremely loud knocking. Angrily loud, one could say.

Springing onto his feet, Steeple retrieves Prince Maurice, dropping him into a pocket.

"Looks like we have visitors!" he says into the pocket.

Then, looking around for Sebastian the Butler, Steeple says again - only much louder this time - "LOOKS LIKE WE HAVE VISITORS!"

Steeple nods at the door expectantly, while Sebastian goes to answer it.

"Watch out for angry bears," Steeple adds, as Sebastian is pulling open the door for whoever is on the other side...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 24, 2015, 10:39:15 am
Lucien

The schlatza nods and then moves out - clearly expecting Lucien to follow him.

Should Lucien follow the ghoul, he will find an enclosed wagon drawn by two horses, each black as night. Lucien deduces that Joseph could probably ride alongside the wagon fairly easily.

Clearly he is intended to rest in the wagon by day and continue travelling by night, never truly stopping to rest.
Lucien ofcourse follows the ghoul.

He smiles vickedly at the Wagon. "New test subjects await us Ennien. We need only go and find them."

"i will ride Joseph the first night of our voyage." He said to Ennien, gesturing that he boards the wagon.

Then he went to get Joseph.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 12:29:47 pm
Kiril

Alec scoffs derisively.

"What, I cannot welcome visitors into my own household now?"

"Are you an idiot?"  Kiril speaks calmly, but allows the dark tentacles to spread, briefly entertaining the idea of throwing his favorite son through a wall. 
"You know what I am, and yet you invited a stranger to enter our home, in the middle of the night?  I would have hoped you had better judgement than that."  Disappointment mixes with disdain in his voice. 

"Now.  I'm leaving, on business.  I suppose I have no choice but to entrust you with the household.  At least try not to Fark it up."

Unless Alec has something further to say, Kiril will depart.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 24, 2015, 01:08:50 pm
Heldric

Heldric quickly casts obsfucate over himself and his crocodile, no point in doing it to Andreas as he would just give it away again. "Andreas, check who is wishing our cave." He says to the other vampire as he moves into a position where he can see the entrance but stay in nice deep shadow.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 01:26:45 pm
Heldric

Heldric

Heldric quickly casts obsfucate over himself and his crocodile, no point in doing it to Andreas as he would just give it away again. "Andreas, check who is wishing our cave." He says to the other vampire as he moves into a position where he can see the entrance but stay in nice deep shadow.

After he finishes giving his orders to Andreas, the Nosferatu fades from view of anyone who could see, along with his pet crocodile.

Andreas moves to the entrance of the cave, a grim smile on his deformed face, hands like arthritic claws clenched into powerful fists. A constant, low growl emits from his chest, rising into the silent air of the cavern, forming a constant, terrifying echo.

A voice quickly calls out into the cavern - "Heldric! Call of your beast! I'm here on behalf of Malachite!"

The voice is that of a frightened and youthful girl.

Steeple

Springing onto his feet, Steeple retrieves Prince Maurice, dropping him into a pocket.

"Looks like we have visitors!" he says into the pocket.

Then, looking around for Sebastian the Butler, Steeple says again - only much louder this time - "LOOKS LIKE WE HAVE VISITORS!"

Steeple nods at the door expectantly, while Sebastian goes to answer it.

"Watch out for angry bears," Steeple adds, as Sebastian is pulling open the door for whoever is on the other side...

The aged man moves swiftly from an upstairs room down to the door, walking at a brisk and cool pace.

Open opening it Steeple and Sebastian are treated to a very large, burly man who's fist was poised to pound right back onto the door (or in this case, Sebastian's face).

He stops himself just in time and then rudely makes his way in, much to the butler's protest (though he does not quite pay Sebastian any mind). His searching eyes rapidly find the 6'5'' floofy white haired Steeple.

"Steeple you lazy bastard, it's time to make yourself useful. Vladivostok's got orders for you, we're leaving now."

The rude, burly man pulls a fat envelope out of a coat pocket.

Kiril

"Are you an idiot?"  Kiril speaks calmly, but allows the dark tentacles to spread, briefly entertaining the idea of throwing his favorite son through a wall. 
"You know what I am, and yet you invited a stranger to enter our home, in the middle of the night?  I would have hoped you had better judgement than that."  Disappointment mixes with disdain in his voice. 

"Now.  I'm leaving, on business.  I suppose I have no choice but to entrust you with the household.  At least try not to Fark it up."

Unless Alec has something further to say, Kiril will depart.

Alec scowls at his father, though he does not add anything further.

Kiril notes that Irina is not anywhere in sight - likely still asleep.

Does Kiril still wish to leave?

Lucien

Lucien of course follows the ghoul.

He smiles wickedly at the Wagon. "New test subjects await us Ennius. We need only go and find them."

"I will ride Joseph the first night of our voyage." He said to Ennius, gesturing that he boards the wagon.

Then he went to get Joseph.

Ennius moves along with Lucien, his heavy footsteps and knight's armour thudding along the ground.

It occurs to Lucien that while here they are in charge and Ennius' armour is seen as a sign of authority, outside of the village the heavy knight's armour could be seen as a sign of war. Perhaps chainmail, or something similarly lighter and less threatening?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 02:01:49 pm
Kiril briefly considers waking his wife to inform of the sudden business trip, but dismisses the idea.  Alec is more than capable of delivering the news.  Besides, it would humiliate Alec, give the impression that Irina was being left in charge.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 24, 2015, 02:20:05 pm
"Enniel, would you get your tongue up from your arse, and help me with something." Lucien said, patting his horse.

"Here" he gestured to the surrounding area "Your armor is seen as authority. Thats a good thing. Around here."

then he gestured to the horizon. "Out there, however... its seen as a threat." he smiled cruelly. "So... will you change armor to something less threatening or will we get test subjects along the way?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 24, 2015, 02:37:30 pm
Heldric calls out "Andreas, let her enter." He stays hidden though awaiting her entrance
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 03:52:09 pm
Heldric

Heldric calls out "Andreas, let her enter." He stays hidden though awaiting her entrance

The girl moves through the cave, auburn hair and pale skin visible only barely in the soft moonlight that creeps in through the entrance. She is not pretty by any means, Heldric surmises that it is because she is battened on the vitae of Nosferatu.

"Master Heldric? I carry a message for you from Lord Malachite..."

She reaches into a satchel by her side and pulls out a large envelope.

Lucien

"Enniel, would you get your tongue up from your arse, and help me with something." Lucien said, patting his horse.

"Here" he gestured to the surrounding area "Your armor is seen as authority. Thats a good thing. Around here."

then he gestured to the horizon. "Out there, however... its seen as a threat." he smiled cruelly. "So... will you change armor to something less threatening or will we get test subjects along the way?"

"Yes my... lord Lucien."

Ennius leaves - and arrives some half an hour later wearing light chainmail. The schlatza has returned, looking perplexed at the delay - though a quick explanation from Lucien calms it.

Does Lucien depart?

Kiril

Kiril briefly considers waking his wife to inform of the sudden business trip, but dismisses the idea.  Alec is more than capable of delivering the news.  Besides, it would humiliate Alec, give the impression that Irina was being left in charge.

Very well.

Outside the dark haired man is waiting for him by the same enclosed wagon Kiril had previously seen.

He is seated at the wagon, in the driver's seat.

"My lord Basilio told me you have a servant you would like to bring with you? A Carinus or something of the like?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 03:59:00 pm
"Yes."

Where was Carinus? Probably hunting.  Best to avoid that conversation with the driver.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 24, 2015, 04:03:52 pm
"oh well, its not like we had the means to transport people anyway. " Lucien said to Ennius. "Good, but a slight  boring decision. Lets depart." He mounted his horse.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 24, 2015, 04:08:13 pm
Heldric moves closer silently to observe the letter,He assumes the girl is being truthful but best to check. If he. Sees his masters seal he steps back into a shadow and drops his cover so as not to startle her too much.

"Let us. See what this entails then." He says holding a clawed hand out for it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 04:44:18 pm
Lucien

"oh well, its not like we had the means to transport people anyway. " Lucien said to Ennius. "Good, but a slight  boring decision. Lets depart." He mounted his horse.

Lucien's part in this scene is done.

Kiril

"Yes."

Where was Carinus? Probably hunting.  Best to avoid that conversation with the driver.

Kiril is aware of Carinus' preferred hunting grounds. Sofia was dotted with mineral baths, remnants of the city's old roman heritage, Carinus would go to the baths to get an extensive look at his victims before taking them. He might still be there now.

Thus leaving the dark-haired ghoul behind, Kiril goes to the House of the Eagle - the biggest bathhouse in the city. He notes Jorgi - one of Lord Basilio's servants and proprietor of the House of the Eagle - once he enters. The ghoul nods briefly to Kiril, knowing full well who and what he is.

"Evening Kiril. You looking for Carinus?" the large man asks.

Heldric

Heldric moves closer silently to observe the letter,He assumes the girl is being truthful but best to check. If he. Sees his masters seal he steps back into a shadow and drops his cover so as not to startle her too much.

"Let us. See what this entails then." He says holding a clawed hand out for it.

The girl starts at his sudden appearance - and is very careful to not touch him in any way when she hands him the envelope. Heldric guesses that Malachite warned her as to his nature.

Heldric needs to light a torch to be able to read the letter and invitation - which is identical to the one received by Lucian (for my convenience).

He notes that he will not be alone in this venture, as well as that Malachite has left Constantinople for some reason or another. It must have been something important if it required his attention.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 05:51:56 pm
"Yes, thank you.  Do you know where I might find him?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 05:55:56 pm
Kiril

"Yes, thank you.  Do you know where I might find him?"

"He left about an hour ago, some little dark haired thing hanging onto his shoulder."

Jorgi gives Kiril the girl's address - and Kiril cannot help but let a small smile grace his face at the news. It's his old home. The girl lives in his old home.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 24, 2015, 05:59:29 pm
Hendricks nods to the girl, he likes her, not too pretty, careful and respectful.

"Thankyou, this is just what we have been waiting for." Then turning to his retainers (he thinks of the crop more like a person than a pet) "We are moving, progress is beginning!"

He let's the girl lead him leaving Andreas to carry everything needed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 06:08:03 pm
Heldric

Hendricks nods to the girl, he likes her, not too pretty, careful and respectful.

"Thankyou, this is just what we have been waiting for." Then turning to his retainers (he thinks of the crop more like a person than a pet) "We are moving, progress is beginning!"

He let's the girl lead him leaving Andreas to carry everything needed.

Andreas brings what is needed, and the albino slithers smoothly out of the dank recesses of the cave into the moonlit countryside.

The land is hauntingly beautiful tonight, the moon is high and the air rings with the howls of distant wolves.

An enclosed wagon along with two pitch black horses waits for them outside. Heldric realizes very quickly that he would have to share the wagon with Andreas and the Albino (which would be unable to keep up with the horses).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 24, 2015, 07:09:52 pm
His searching eyes rapidly find the 6'5'' floofy white haired Steeple.

"Steeple you lazy bastard, it's time to make yourself useful. Vladivostok's got orders for you, we're leaving now."

The rude, burly man pulls a fat envelope out of a coat pocket.

Unfazed by the man's brusqueness, Steeple replies excitedly, "Ooh, we're going on a trip? Excellent!"

Clapping his hands, he bellows for the Coachman - "IGOR! MY THINGS! FETCH MY THINGS! IIIIGGGOOOOORRRR!!!"

Impatiently tapping his foot, waiting for Igor, Steeple regards the envelope in the rude man's hand.

"I don't usually take bribes," he says nonchalantly, snatching the envelope with a flick of his wrist. Then, after a moment of manicaly fluttering the letter out with his only hand, he snaps the paper crisp and commences to read - mumbling the words incomprehensibly aloud as he does...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 07:18:10 pm
Steeple

Unfazed by the man's brusqueness, Steeple replies excitedly, "Ooh, we're going on a trip? Excellent!"

Clapping his hands, he bellows for the Coachman - "IGOR! MY THINGS! FETCH MY THINGS! IIIIGGGOOOOORRRR!!!"

Impatiently tapping his foot, waiting for Igor, Steeple regards the envelope in the rude man's hand.

"I don't usually take bribes," he says nonchalantly, snatching the envelope with a flick of his wrist. Then, after a moment of manicaly fluttering the letter out with his only hand, he snaps the paper crisp and commences to read - mumbling the words incomprehensibly aloud as he does...

The thick-necked driver (who had been sleeping) pokes his head down from the upstairs rooms, looking at what exactly was happening.

"Yes sir! Of course sir!"

He rushes to fetch Steeple's things, while the man in front of Steeple scowls.

"Pack light, we're moving quickly. And it's not a bribe!"

Steeple's letter (and invitation) is identical to that received by Lucien (higher up in the thread).

Prince Maurice muffled voice pipes up - "Well old boy, it seems we're going on an adventure!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 24, 2015, 07:29:50 pm
Heldric

Andreas brings what is needed, and the albino slithers smoothly out of the dank recesses of the cave into the moonlit countryside.

The land is hauntingly beautiful tonight, the moon is high and the air rings with the howls of distant wolves.

An enclosed wagon along with two pitch black horses waits for them outside. Heldric realizes very quickly that he would have to share the wagon with Andreas and the Albino (which would be unable to keep up with the horses).

"Hmm Andreas, please help Mr. Whitey inside for me, then ride on the roof so you can jump off an kill anything that threatens us. Obviously one in before dawn if the trip takes that long." He then climbs inside
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 07:31:30 pm
Heldric

"Hmm Andreas, please help Mr. Whitey inside for me, then ride on the roof so you can jump off an kill anything that threatens us. Obviously one in before dawn if the trip takes that long." He then climbs inside

Heldric's part is done.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 07:38:47 pm
Kiril

"He left about an hour ago, some little dark haired thing hanging onto his shoulder."

Jorgi gives Kiril the girl's address - and Kiril cannot help but let a small smile grace his face at the news. It's his old home. The girl lives in his old home.

Wait.  This could be trouble.  The Cullar are Basilio's servants, he may be irritated if Carinus kills one of them.   Kiril decides he'd better go and find Carinus.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 24, 2015, 07:44:46 pm
Quote
Anton's eyes are closed. He sees darkness. Endless, deadening darkness that extends as far as can be seen. He can see nothing, feel nothing, hear nothing - not even the sound of his heart, which had stopped beating long ago. He feels cold - even now, when the intricacies of warmth and cold mean nothing to him. He's felt cold ever since he came back from the Abyss - it's nice, he thinks sometimes, that he is so cold. Warmth is comforting, and he has no right to such pleasures. Not anymore.

His eyes still closed, Anton feels darkness filling him, merging with him. He feels his soul turn a dark shade of black, tainted as what he imagines a demon's soul would look like.

Anton opens his eyes. They are black as the darkest night.

The adulterer lies in front of him, bruised and battered. She had screamed so loudly, confessed so surely, promised so much - but her penance was not done. Not yet. Only through great pain may one repent.

Then he hears the knocking. Someone upstairs? Who could be visiting him now, at this time of night?

Anton almost reacts, almost turning away from the sinner. After all, who dare disturb him while he spreads the good word?! But that doesn't matter, not right now. His mind must be focused, his emotions kept at bay. This his is work, and nothing must disturb it.

"You have been redeemed" Anton states, calmly, as he begins to form a shadowy blade, and, once summoned, exitingushes the evil in the woman.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 08:16:28 pm
Anton

Anton almost reacts, almost turning away from the sinner. After all, who dare disturb him while he spreads the good word?! But that doesn't matter, not right now. His mind must be focused, his emotions kept at bay. This his is work, and nothing must disturb it.

"You have been redeemed" Anton states, calmly, as he begins to form a shadowy blade, and, once summoned, exitingushes the evil in the woman.

Darkness coalesces around Anton's outstretched hand - though to him, the shadows look like pure white light, and form into the purest diamond blade that could be imagined.

A quick move and the blade now glows a terrible red.

Kiril

Wait.  This could be trouble.  The Cullar are Basilio's servants, he may be irritated if Carinus kills one of them.   Kiril decides he'd better go and find Carinus.

Carinus' home is further into the residential district of the city. Making his way there, Kiril is greeted by the delightful smell of freshly cooked pork. Well, something that smells like pork anyway...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 24, 2015, 08:22:29 pm
Anton

Darkness coalesces around Anton's outstretched hand - though to him, the shadows look like pure white light, and form into the purest diamond blade that could be imagined.

A quick move and the blade now glows a terrible red.
"In Christ does she now lay, greeted by your kingdom, O' Lord." Anton states, dropping his daimond blade on the ground, letting it disperse into the world.

And with that, he heads up the stairs to check on the knocking. He'll have to set up for the woman's burial soon.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 08:28:15 pm
Anton

"In Christ does she now lay, greeted by your kingdom, O' Lord." Anton states, dropping his diamond blade on the ground, letting it disperse into the world.

And with that, he heads up the stairs to check on the knocking. He'll have to set up for the woman's burial soon.

Anton moves up the steps of his stone cellar, and opens the heavy wooden door sealing it. The place had been specially designed for confession.

Opening the door outside Anton is greeted by a man wearing the robes of a monk. A cowl would normally obscure his face but actually brightens it for Anton at the moment, showing a man of typical appearance, with dark hair and bright eyes. He appears to be in his thirties and a chain dangles around his neck, disappearing into his robes.

He bows at Anton's appearance.

"Brother Anton, I come bearing missives from Lord Basilio."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 24, 2015, 08:30:58 pm
Prince Maurice muffled voice pipes up - "Well old boy, it seems we're going on an adventure!"

"I know, right!? Steeple replies to Prince Maurice in his pocket.

Then, while pocketing the letter, Steeple mocks the large man, "Oh no, definitely not a bribe," he says, while immediately nodding the affirmative to his servants with a big 'thumbs up' and mouthing the words "BIG. ASS. BRIBE!"

Then, not to be hurried, Steeple ignores the man completely, until Igor has loaded the usual five or six trunks of random junk onto the carriage (Steeple's or any other carriage the man may have brought with him).

Once that is taken care of, Steeple walks to a lit candle on the windowsill and braces himself to pinch it out (setting up the Extinguish Ritual)...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 08:41:57 pm
Steeple

"I know, right!? Steeple replies to Prince Maurice in his pocket.

Then, while pocketing the letter, Steeple mocks the large man, "Oh no, definitely not a bribe," he says, while immediately nodding the affirmative to his servants with a big 'thumbs up' and mouthing the words "BIG. ASS. BRIBE!"

Then, not to be hurried, Steeple ignores the man completely, until Igor has loaded the usual five or six trunks of random junk onto the carriage (Steeple's or any other carriage the man may have brought with him).

Once that is taken care of, Steeple walks to a lit candle on the windowsill and braces himself to pinch it out (setting up the Extinguish Ritual)...

Nadia smiles and nods back enthusiastically. Sebastian shakes his head sadly.

Igor comes down carrying Steeple's useless crap/ritual components/equipment. It's soon clear that the enclosed wagon and two horses that draw it will not be enough for all of Steeple's stuff, so Igor packs a second carriage.

"I said to pack light you worthless buffoon! If we're late then Stephan will have your hide and mine!" the burly man cries out plaintively.

"Unpleasant fellow isn't he?" Prince Maurice says.

"First he tries to bribe you, then you yells at you when you bring but the bare necessities."

Steeple pinches the candle and spits on the floor with overwhelming success.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 24, 2015, 08:48:31 pm
Anton

Anton moves up the steps of his stone cellar, and opens the heavy wooden door sealing it. The place had been specially designed for confession.

Opening the door outside Anton is greeted by a man wearing the robes of a monk. A cowl would normally obscure his face but actually brightens it for Anton at the moment, showing a man of typical appearance, with dark hair and bright eyes. He appears to be in his thirties and a chain dangles around his neck, disappearing into his robes.

He bows at Anton's appearance.

"Brother Anton, I come bearing missives from Lord Basilio."
"You should not have disturbed me in my work, brother." Anton states, staring at the monk, unblinking.

"But it is no matter, if you are truly from my site, then it must be important. Give me the missive. Now." Anton states, glaring.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 08:51:12 pm
Anton

"You should not have disturbed me in my work, brother." Anton states, staring at the monk, unblinking.

"But it is no matter, if you are truly from my sire, then it must be important. Give me the missive. Now." Anton states, glaring.

The monk reaches into his robes and pulls out a large envelope (See Lucian's envelope).

The monk then adds - "Your brother Kiril should also be receiving a message of this sort."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 08:53:42 pm
Kiril

Carinus' home is further into the residential district of the city. Making his way there, Kiril is greeted by the delightful smell of freshly cooked pork. Well, something that smells like pork anyway...

Oh, lovely.  Already dead.  Maybe she wasn't a Cullar after all, just someone who worked for them?
At least Carinus is quick.  Anton takes forever to get around to killing them.


Kiril knocks politely at Carinus's door.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 08:59:14 pm
Kiril

Oh, lovely.  Already dead.  Maybe she wasn't a Cullar after all, just someone who worked for them?
At least Carinus is quick.  Anton takes forever to get around to killing them.


Kiril knocks politely at Carinus's door.

Perhaps not? Kiril hears Carinus' voice through the door - something like "i'll be back".

He opens the door slightly - then, once seeing that it's Kiril, opens it completely. A polite smile on his face, Carinus welcomes his master.

"Good evening Kiril. Would you like to come in? I just so happen to have refreshments."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 24, 2015, 09:04:13 pm
"Unpleasant fellow isn't he?" Prince Maurice says.

"First he tries to bribe you, then you yells at you when you bring but the bare necessities."

Steeple pinches the candle and spits on the floor with overwhelming success.

Heading out to the carriages, Steeple whispers to Igor where he is to meet, in case they get separated. "Just wait for me in a nice inn or something if needed," Steeple says, handing his coachman enough coins for lodging and livery for the horses and carriage.

Then stepping into the blacked-out carriage, he yells to the rude man, "Get off yer ass man! Let's go! What are you waiting for?!? Can't keep the Prince (meaning Maurice) waiting!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 09:04:54 pm
Kiril

Perhaps not? Kiril hears Carinus' voice through the door - something like "i'll be back".

He opens the door slightly - then, once seeing that it's Kiril, opens it completely. A polite smile on his face, Carinus welcomes his master.

"Good evening Kiril. Would you like to come in? I just so happen to have refreshments."

"Thank you, Carinus," Kiril replies, making no move as of yet to enter.  "I'm afraid we've been summoned to leave Sofia.  Basilio requires our attendance in Budapest- he's lent us to a new patron."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 24, 2015, 09:11:49 pm
Anton

The monk reaches into his robes and pulls out a large envelope (See Lucian's envelope).

The monk then adds - "Your brother Kiril should also be receiving a message of this sort."
Anton quickly reads the note, and then places it in his cloak.

He then nods.
"Follow. We need to arrange for the burial of the pure one first." Anton states, heading back into his home, and down the stairs to the confession booth.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 09:14:25 pm
Kiril

"Thank you, Carinus," Kiril replies, making no move as of yet to enter.  "I'm afraid we've been summoned to leave Sofia.  Basilio requires our attendance in Budapest- he's lent us to a new patron."

"Ah, but a moment then - I will pack provisions for the trip."

Carinus moves to go back in.

Steeple

Heading out to the carriages, Steeple whispers to Igor where he is to meet, in case they get separated. "Just wait for me in a nice inn or something if needed," Steeple says, handing his coachman enough coins for lodging and livery for the horses and carriage.

Then stepping into the blacked-out carriage, he yells to the rude man, "Get off yer ass man! Let's go! What are you waiting for?!? Can't keep the Prince (meaning Maurice) waiting!"

"Gally ho!" Maurice says.

The brute smiles briefly.

"About time!"

He jumps up into the driver's seat and they set off.

Steeple's part for this scene is done.

Anton

Anton quickly reads the note, and then places it in his cloak.

He then nods.
"Follow. We need to arrange for the burial of the pure one first." Anton states, heading back into his home, and down the stairs to the confession booth.

Brother Joseph does as ordered.

He starts ever so briefly at the sight of the woman lying strapped to the table, her body bruised and a large hole visible in her chest. Blood has run down the table and pooled onto the floor, exciting Anton's Beast.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 24, 2015, 09:38:39 pm
Anton smiles ever so softly at the sight of the woman. She's in a better place now. He holds his beast at bay, for now, though, not daring to defile the body of a pure one.

"Take the woman, and leave her at the entrance of the church, brother. The one who joined her in sin will know what it means." Anton states.

"After that, return here. I must pack."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 09:58:00 pm
Anton

Anton smiles ever so softly at the sight of the woman. She's in a better place now. He holds his beast at bay, for now, though, not daring to defile the body of a pure one.

"Take the woman, and leave her at the entrance of the church, brother. The one who joined her in sin will know what it means." Anton states.

"After that, return here. I must pack."

"Very well Brother Anton."

The monk lifts the woman - carefully, so as to avoid getting blood on his robes - and carries her out.

When he returns (a good half hour later), he asks Anton - "Shall we depart with your sibling brother?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 24, 2015, 10:31:19 pm
Anton

"Very well Brother Anton."

The monk lifts the woman - carefully, so as to avoid getting blood on his robes - and carries her out.

When he returns (a good half hour later), he asks Anton - "Shall we depart with your sibling brother?"
Anton had quickly gathered the few belongings he has that mattered. His saber and lance, his armor, his shield, and his few books.

"Yes. It would be best to arrive along with Kiril." Anton states, as he quickly heads to his horse, Fantoma and mounts her. Hopefully he'll be willing to leave the Veranin's alone, for once.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 10:36:02 pm
Anton

Anton had quickly gathered the few belongings he has that mattered. His saber and lance, his armor, his shield, and his few books.

"Yes. It would be best to arrive along with Kiril." Anton states, as he quickly heads to his horse, Fantoma and mounts her. Hopefully he'll be willing to leave the Veranins alone, for once.

Anton's part in this scene is done.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 11:22:11 pm
Kiril nods.  "Shall I wait outside, or may I come in?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 11:23:27 pm
Kiril

Kiril nods.  "Shall I wait outside, or may I come in?"

Carinus thinks to himself for a second.

"Well, my offer for refreshments stands once more before I begin preparing the provisions."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 24, 2015, 11:38:21 pm
"I'd be delighted." 
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 24, 2015, 11:56:10 pm
Kiril

"I'd be delighted." 

Carinus smiles delightedly at his master's acquiescence.

Leading Kiril carefully inside, Kiril soon notes the presence of a young and attractive girl in her twenties - though if she is indeed a revenant, she should really be somewhere in her fourties by now.

"No my dear, please, stay seated." Carinus says, looking her straight in the eyes as she reacts with something akin to panic at seeing Kiril enter. She freezes in place and stays completely and absolutely still, not moving an inch from her seat.

There is a table set before them, each with a plate that is topped with what appears to be masterfully prepared pork fillet with parsnip puree, roasted apples & parsnips & fried cabbage. Two glasses of white wine - undoubtedly the finest vintage Carinus could scramble up - are visible, the girl's glass far emptier than Carinus'.

He moves behind her and gently nudges her head to the side, baring her neck.

"Please Kiril, you are my guest, take your fill."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 12:26:23 am
I wonder if Carinus' food tastes as exquisite as it looks?  I was never all that fond of pork chops. I should have liked to try his, though.

Kiril feeds.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 12:35:14 am
The girl does not struggle - she is unable, surrendering quickly to the Kiss and still under the killer's mesmer.

Kiril feels the beast within him rise to the surface as he drains her of her surprisingly potent blood. It urges him to continue, to suck her veins dry and still her beating heart.

When he is done, she slumps over, her breath weakly escaping her mouth in a mild groan. She dies with a smile on her face.

"Masterfully done." Carinus says, his face rapt.

"If only I could so peacefully let others pass on. It should take me but a few short moments to salt the flesh"

He picks up the girl and carries her to the kitchen, where he pulls out a collection of wickedly sharp knives and begins to work on cutting away choice portions of the flesh.

Assuming he is not interrupted, Carinus should be done within 20 minutes, having prepared a sizeable packet of well-preserved "provisions".  Much of the girl remains, and her face is entirely untouched.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 12:43:17 am
"What do you do with the remains?" Kiril idly inquires.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 12:46:21 am
"I remove and preserve as much flesh as I can and then send the bodies downriver, the fish finish what I couldn't or was unwilling to. I cannot do the same with her due to current limitations. I assume you wish her death remain undiscovered?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 12:46:52 am
". . . It would almost certainly be preferable."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 12:57:07 am
Carinus nods and immediately takes a large, thick, square-bladed knife - now he is not careful in his movements, acting not with precision but with furious abandon. The girl's pretty face becomes unrecognizeable, her skull fractures. Her fine body (already mutilated as he cut her open to fetch what he desired) is further destroyed under the harsh blows. What would have certainly been a messy affair is rendered considerably less so by the fact that Kiril had already drained her of all her blood.

When he is done, she is unrecognizable. Carinus wipes the sweat that had accumulated off of his forehead, and then exits to another room. He returns with several cloth sacks, in which he begins carefully placing bits of her body.

"I will leave this with Jorgi, where should I meet you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 01:04:01 am
Kiril explains the location of the carriage.

". . . Did you choose her for any particular reason?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 01:06:46 am
Carinus smiles politely.

"I know how infuriating an uninvited guest can be."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 01:13:23 am
Kiril gives Carinus a genuine smile.  "They can be quite maddening, can't they?"

He uses his teeth to make a small incision in his own lower right arm, and offers it to Carinus.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 01:17:45 am
Carinus rapidly opens a cupboard and picks up a finely shaped glass - no doubt not wishing to drink the blood from Kiril's arm in an undignified manner.

What blood Kiril lets fall he will collect in the glass. He says then, in a low voice while staring desirously at the dark liquid - "Truly, no finer vintage than this."

He drinks quickly and then sets down the glass, offering his thanks.

Unless Kiril has something else to add, he will go to dispose of the girl.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 01:21:04 am
Kiril,will go wait in the carriage.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 01:34:03 am
Carinus returns soon afterwards.

Kiril finds that when he is done, he is joined by his brother Anton, who rides Fantoma alongside a monk on his own carriage.

(Kiril's part is done).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 09:45:50 am
As the two vampires (and an assortment of ghouls) ride on to Budapest, Anton's pitch black eyes turn towards his brother. Usually he wouldn't bother, but there are none to confess on the road, and the two have been sent on an extended mission.

"Brother." Anton states simply, not truly having much connection to his brother, but knowing of no other real way to refer to him.

"I assume the family has been well."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 10:38:42 am
"Yes?"  Kiril is slightly surprised by his brother's sudden interest in conversation.  Generally, Kiril is the one attempting social niceties, while Anton either brushes him off or ignores him completely.

Is he bored or something? 
You know, I never really thought about that before-- I wonder what Anton thinks about, when he's not bringing sinners to god.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 11:39:23 am
"Good. I trust you keep them on the righteous path, brother." Anton states. "It will be a challenge for Sofia, with us gone." Anton states, answering Kiril's mental question. Apparently, more God.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 11:49:01 am
"A challenge for Sofia? How do you mean, brother?"

Kiril knows exactly what Anton means. But this is the first time they've spoken in weeks, and Kiril finds himself reluctant to let the conversation drop.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 11:55:54 am
"Sin will rise while we are away, brother. Were I given some time, perhaps, I could have raised a childer who would keep it at bay, but alas, I have not met any who reach true depravity. One day, I suppose." Anton states, staring at his brother with black eyes.

"But I do not question our Lord. He knows what must be done." Anton then adds.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 12:14:02 pm
This is what I have to look forward to.  An eternity of. . .  this. . .  But at least he's talking to me.

Haha, wouldn't it be funny if Hell turned out to be nothing but an incredibly boring conversation with someone who doesn't even like you, but for some reason you can't stop talking to them?

Anton probably wouldn't be amused.


"So, how will you know when you've found a worthy childe, brother?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 12:23:18 pm
"There are no worthy childer, brother. There are only sinners who do not deserve the kingdom." Anton states.

"The most disgusting savages, children who curse their parents, deviants who wish to destroy God's connection to this earth. Those are the only ones deserving of our fate, exile from the kingdom."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 12:51:52 pm
"So. . . what did we do?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 01:49:04 pm
"It matters not what we did, the good lord chose that we deserved no heaven. And yet the lord is still great, granting us bodies to still do the Lord's work. It is our lot to be damned, and we must act accordingly, brother."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 02:15:42 pm
"So, uh, Anton. . . If we're damned anyway, why does it matter whether or not we're doing the Lord's work?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 05:26:11 pm
Quote
Sylvian Bastian Beaulieu, Divine Artist
Domain of Radu Bistri,
Prince of Bistritz


Sylvian sighs.

The painting is imperfect, as always. The green is never quite the right, lush shade that he needs it to be to capture the vibrant life of this beautiful land's forests.

He feels inflamed. This land seems to have that effect on him - it's so beautiful, so enticing, and makes him feel so possessive. He feels impotent when compared to it, when his works are shown beside it.

Aldric knocks at the door - opening it soon after. He sees Sylvian's new painting and sighs - though unlike Sylvian, not in disappointment. He rushes forward and closes his eyes, taking in even the scent of the drying paint on the canvas before opening his eyes and enjoying the painting. Sylvian can tell that his servant is using his intensely heightened senses, as he always does, to take in the painting.

"Perfect my lord. Dazzling."

Sylvian is not convinced. The happy fool's reaction to every single work he made was universally the same. He still failed to capture Transylvannia.

After a small while, Sylvian hears a rough voice call up - it's Odi.

"My lord, someone is here for you."

Sylvian suspects that Aldric had been sent up here with that purpose, but had been distracted of course.

Sylvian resignedly makes his way downstairs to greet the visitor. Waiting for him is an exceedingly attractive young man bearing missives from Arianne. No doubt one of her mortal lovers, the ghoul hands Sylvian the envelope - which contains an invitation and a letter (as detailed in Lucien's post).

Sylvian accepts the invitation, gathers his servants and begins his journey for Buda-Pest.

"So, uh, Anton. . . If we're damned anyway, why does it matter whether or not we're doing the Lord's work?"

The two discuss late into the night their differing philosophies - and do so for the following weeks as they journey to Buda-Pest, the two long-estranged brothers for once spending time with one another.

End Prelude
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 06:19:20 pm
The Arrival

The Domain of Vencel Rikard
Prince of Buda-Pest
April 15, 1198
7:00pm, Dusk


It is early spring - the 15th of April, 1198, just past the seventh hour of the night. Buda-Pest itself is coming alive again after the quiet of winter. Daring traders arrive from the East and West, having braved late-winter storms and treacherous crossings through newly cleared mountain passes. After a tiring and uncomfortable journey, the characters arrive outside the main gate of Pest. Clouds cover the sky and the ground underfoot is soggy with chilly rain. The walls of Buda-Pest rise before the characters. The smells of livestock, lime and smoke hang in the air.

The sun was still up when the 6 enclosed wagons arrived, gathering together at the base of a hill before the city. After having conversed with each other, the six drivers hopped off of their steeds and went inside their masters' abodes, waiting for them to wake.

Sylvian

Sylvian, first to rise, is greeted by Aldric, Odi and Luke (pronounced the french way). Odi speaks, while Aldric and Luke lie with their heads back, seemingly having dozed off.

"Glad to see you're awake sir. We're finally here, and we're not alone. Five other enclosed wagons, each containing one of your kind - actually, two of them have two of you. 8 vampires total, counting yourself sir. One of them has these two real ugly bastards, their driver, a none-too pretty greek girl, says they both have something nasty on them. Can't touch em' or we'll get sick. You should be fine though.

Another has this grim, religious guy with a monk and a massive black horse. Don't like him, a lot of things seem off with him - you'll get what I mean when you see him sir.

With him came a slim, lordling-type fellow and his unsettlingly polite servant, Carnus or something like that.

There's also this guy who looks a lot more like a girl than a guy, long hair, the works. A lot like Luke over here. He's got a ghoul with him, ugly as sin, mutilated like you wouldn't believe, and there was also a big, good-looking vampire with him wearing chainmail and carrying a greatsword.

Lastly there's this huge white-haired guy. His driver seems to treat him like shit, but it might just be because he's asleep. He's got a few servants with him, but they're nothing special."

Steeple

Steeple finds himself rudely shoved and shaken into wakefulness.

"Get up you shiny lazy shit, we're here!"

"Oh my" Prince Maurice says.

"Right in the morning too. I do say, perhaps he should learn some humility? I give you permission to feed, Steeple. You haven't had much to eat on the road, after all..."

Anton

Anton's wagon is quiet. He rises to find brother Joseph praying.

A black cross hangs off a string of beads held in Joseph's hands - Anton almost immediately recoils in horror - but manages to keep himself somewhat calm, for now. He feels the Beast rise to the surface now, as he hungers. It has been weeks on the road, and there has not been much in the way of sustenance.

Kiril

Kiril wakes to find Carinus sitting quietly, his hands patiently resting on his lap. He faces Fernando, who appears to have dozed off. The driver has been working at it very hard the past few weeks, staying away to keep driving the wagons forward.

"Good evening Kiril, it seems we have arrived. I have gathered what small amount of information I could in the time we have been here, which I estimate to be about one hour. When we arrived all of us, clearly knowing and understanding that we are part of the same envoy, stopped and waited outside of the city gates. We had to, the guards appear to be searching any caravan that enters the city, and it would be quite the undignified end to us all if the guards found you resting within your wagons.

Along with your brother Anton we appear to have met up with 6 other assorted vampires. Two appear to be travelling together in the same wagon, both suffering extreme deformations. One is named Heldric, the other Andreas. Andreas seems to be mute, and is bound to Heldric. In addition, they are both extremely contagious, carrying a disease that weakens and kills mortals such as myself. They carry a white reptile, I believe it is called a crocodile - an exotic creature from the south - in their wagon with them.

Another two, one a very feminine and delicate looking man with two slaves, one a very capable-looking vampiric knight and another a horribly deformed war-ghoul, I believe the Tzimisce call them Schlatza. The feminine one is called Lucien, his slave Ennius. The schlatza told me he no longer has a name.

There is also a painter, named Sylvian who is, if you ask one of his servants, an artist sent from god himself, and if you ask another, a self-absorbed fool who nevertheless pays well, travels with a small number of retainers.

Lastly, there is a comically tall, white-haired and one-armed man who has quite a disrespectful driver, along with three other retainers. The driver spoke very harshly of him, saying that he was lazy, oafish and a simple source of income. His name is Steeple."

Heldric

Heldric wakes at the nuzzling of his pet albino, Andreas still sleeps like a stone.

His driver, Marla, is (unlike everyone else's driver) not in his wagon. Because, you know, disease.

Lucien

The schlatza wakes Lucien, his rough, broken voice filling the enclosed wagon.

"Master, we have arrived."

Opening his eyes, Lucien sees that Ennius has already woken and donned his armor while he slept.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 25, 2015, 06:47:38 pm
"Ah. We're finally here." He smiled. "And it looks like we're still intact! Maybe i dont need a chair just yet." He smiled viciously.

Then he noticed the other vampires. "i guess they are the other vampires then." He said, looking at the others.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 25, 2015, 06:52:13 pm
"It appears we are here" Heldric says as he lets his crocodiles muzzle. "I will go see what is happening while you guard Andreas so he can sleep, we can trust this place yet."

Heldric casts obsfucate on himself before very slowly and carefully leaving the carriage to observe the others.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 07:22:36 pm
Anton glares at the monk.

"Do not disgrace the holy rites, monk." He says, almost a tinge of anger in his voice, possibly disturbing the monk's prayer. "Never perform them in my presence."

He contemplates feeding from the monk. It would certainly be punishment enough to be drained of blood.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 07:28:38 pm
Brother Joseph looks up at Anton, a tinge of defiance in his voice.

"I must observe my rites, Brother Anton. I would disgrace them all the more if I ignored them."

Nonetheless, he puts away the cross, before informing Anton of the following - "We have arrived at Buda-Pest brother. There are 4 other wagons, not counting your brother's, they carry 6 vampires and their assorted retinues."

As Brother Joseph speaks, Anton's Beast rises to the forefront, excited by his thoughts. He does not feel the pull of Frenzy just yet but he feels it scrape and claw at its cage, asking so clearly to be let out.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 07:34:34 pm
"You must observe your rites in proper places, brother Joseph. You do not pray in the harlot's den." Anton states, adamantly.

"I must feed." Anton then states, expectantly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 07:38:05 pm
"Then we should enter the city, Brother Anton. I am already weak from the trip, I cannot afford to lose more blood still lest you end up without even a driver to bring you through the day."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 07:43:32 pm
"Thank you, Carinus." Kiril takes a look around.  Anton seems to be busy, and anyway, kiril's grown rather tired of his brothers company over the long trip from Sofia.

"Are we waiting for something in particular?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 07:46:55 pm
"Yes. For all of you to wake up. We should hurry after you all finish your introductions, the main city gates will be closing soon and we'll have to find another way inside."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 07:52:52 pm
"Then we should enter the city, Brother Anton. I am already weak from the trip, I cannot afford to lose more blood still lest you end up without even a driver to bring you through the day."
"I presume then thatwe wait for a reason, brother?" Anton asks, still glaring at the monk.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 08:05:57 pm
Anton

"I presume then thatwe wait for a reason, brother?" Anton asks, still glaring at the monk.

"You have yet to introduce yourself Brother Anton. You are to work with these people, after all."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 08:17:12 pm
"All right, I'll go and say hello."  Kiril heads towards the pretty one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 08:23:18 pm
Anton

"You have yet to introduce yourself Brother Anton. You are to work with these people, after all."

Anton does not respond, and simply steps out of the carriage, shadows moving along with him. He looks for the others, to see if they have awakened as of yet.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 25, 2015, 08:32:49 pm
"All right, I'll go and say hello."  Kiril heads towards the pretty one.
"Greetings" Lucien said with a Slight bow.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 08:38:13 pm
"Good evening.  I am Kiril Veranin, Lord of Vitosha. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
 Kiril observes the man, seeing what information he can gather. By now, it's as natural as breathing. . . used to be.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 25, 2015, 08:42:20 pm
"My name is Lucian Lupei." Lucien is ifcourse intruiged by the man.  I wonder if he'd let me use my arts on him...

"And yes, i toy with flesh and bones." He smiled childishly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 08:46:36 pm
"Good evening.  I am Kiril Veranin, Lord of Vitosha. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
 Kiril observes the man, seeing what information he can gather. By now, it's as natural as breathing. . . used to be.

The man's body has obviously seen extensive alterations - no man is physically capable of naturally looking so perfectly fine as this.

However his veins stand out on his body, dark and highly visible against his unusually pale skin - Kiril gathers that he has not fed in some time.

And indeed, Lucien has not been able to feed on anything save the schlatza - and he has been highly restrained by the fact that Ennius also needed to be fed, lest he Frenzy (a fight that the blood starved Lucien could not afford to have).

In fact, the only one out of everyone who fed to their leisure is Heldric (though of course no one can see him), along with his servant Andreas, aided by Heldric's skill in communicating with animals. Though he is heavy and slowed on the blood of Beasts, at least he has remained nourished.

Steeple and Sylvian have both also fared rather well with their herds.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 08:51:58 pm
"Carinus, can you find me something to eat?" Kiril inquires before continuing his conversation.

He could have looked like anything, and he chose that appearance. Interesting.

"Are you acquainted with anyone else here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 08:54:22 pm
"Certainly - though I think it might be better to wait till we are inside the city. It would look suspicious if I led anyone out and then returned with this group without them."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 09:03:31 pm
Anton looks out, and sees his brother already conversing with a fellow woman? Man? Something in between? It is good. The kindred must look inhuman and disturbing. That is their purpose.

He heads to greet the two.
"Brother." He states to Kiril, coldly, as per usual. His voice rarely displays any warmth.

"I assume this is another one of the fold?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 25, 2015, 09:07:49 pm
Lucien cannot help but note Anton's disgraceful ugliness.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 25, 2015, 09:11:01 pm
"Carinus, can you find me something to eat?" Kiril inquires before continuing his conversation.

He could have looked like anything, and he chose that appearance. Interesting.

"Are you acquainted with anyone else here?"
"ah, i'm not the only one starving." He smiled weakly to him. "Oh, and as for your question.. only Ennius there im afraid." He gestured to the knight."
Anton looks out, and sees his brother already conversing with a fellow woman? Man? Something in between? It is good. The kindred must look inhuman and disturbing. That is their purpose.

He heads to greet the two.
"Brother." He states to Kiril, coldly, as per usual. His voice rarely displays any warmth.

"I assume this is another one of the fold?"
"Do not talk about me as if i wasnt present Thank you."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 25, 2015, 09:30:14 pm
"Anton, this is Lucien Lupei.  Lucien, my brother Anton."

anton, for the love of god, be polite.

Haha, 'love of god.'
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 25, 2015, 09:51:53 pm
Anton nods.
"Lucian Lupei, I am pleased to make your acquaintance." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 25, 2015, 10:09:39 pm
"Likewise Anton. Likewise."

must be a trend to be ugly around here.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 26, 2015, 01:29:09 am
He.dric, satisfied with what he has observed heads back into his carriage and let's his obsfucate drop before waking Andreas. "You may follow me out or wait here with whitey, it is your choice." He says to the bonded vampire before walking out towards the others, smiling in his horrific way.

"Greetings brothers, I assume you were all called out here for the same purpose as I?" He anounces as he approaches when there is a pause in the conversation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 26, 2015, 07:58:44 am
"greetings Mr... My name is Lucien." He said with a smile. "This is Ennius My servant." He gestured to the knight.

This is Anton." He gestures to the reallly ugly one that is not a nosferatu. "And this is Kiril." he gedtured to the not sp ugly one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 26, 2015, 08:03:33 am
Quote
"Right in the morning too. I do say, perhaps he should learn some humility? I give you permission to feed, Steeple. You haven't had much to eat on the road, after all..."

"A jolly good idea," Steeple replies to Prince Maurice - though the rude driver could be forgiven for thinking Steeple was talking to him.

Activating Elemental Strength, Steeple coils around the man like a python - yanking him into the carriage and sinking his fangs into the man's face to feed!

(Don't intend to kill him though)...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 26, 2015, 12:21:05 pm
"greetings Mr... My name is Lucien." He said with a smile. "This is Ennius My servant." He gestured to the knight.

This is Anton." He gestures to the really ugly one that is not a nosferatu. "And this is Kiril." he gestures to the not so ugly one.

"Ah my apologies, my name is Heldric. My retainers are still in the carriage but I'm sure they will introduce themselves soon. AH, I would advise none of you or your ghouls touch myself or them, it might have... unfortunate consequences due to part of my clans curse."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 26, 2015, 12:23:33 pm
Kiril nods to the hideous newcomer.  "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Heldric."

Yes, yes, hello to you all.  We certainly have the entire spectrum of physical appearance here, don't we?

Let's enter the city already, I'm hungry.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 26, 2015, 12:48:06 pm
Steeple

"A jolly good idea," Steeple replies to Prince Maurice - though the rude driver could be forgiven for thinking Steeple was talking to him.

Activating Elemental Strength, Steeple coils around the man like a python - yanking him into the carriage and sinking his fangs into the man's face to feed!

(Don't intend to kill him though)...

Steeple quickly casts his spell, strengthening himself, and then immediately sits up, moving faster than any man has a right to move, wrapping his arms around Barabus' neck and then coiling around him, forcefully pushing his face into the ground and immobilizing him while Steeple begins eagerly drinking the man's blood.

He tries to break the hold - and probably could have managed to, being surprisingly strong, but Steeple's bite drains him of the will and strength to fight. His struggling grows weaker and then stops - before Steeple stops, his Beast sated and his hunger satisfied.

Steeple then dumps the groaning man out of the cart - the others, who up until now would have only heard a mild scuffle - see and hear the body fall, as well as Steeple exiting the carriage, stepping onto the man as he does so, and coolly stating "You are the servant; I am the guest; Make sure you get that straight from now on."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 26, 2015, 01:21:42 pm
"Ah my apologies, my name is Heldric. My retainers are still in the carriage but I'm sure they will introduce themselves soon. AH, I would advise none of you or your ghouls touch myself or them, it might have... unfortunate consequences due to part of my clans curse."

Anton nods.

"This is certainly a large crowd." He then states, unaccustomed to a groups larger then three vampires. "It must be important."
Steeple then dumps the groaning man out of the cart - the others, who up until now would have only heard a mild scuffle - see and hear the body fall, as well as Steeple exiting the carriage, stepping onto the man as he does so, and coolly stating "You are the servant; I am the guest; Make sure you get that straight from now on."
He then turns to look at the tall one armed man.
"And that would be the fifth. One more." He mutters.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 26, 2015, 01:26:37 pm
"Indeed. I was sent to this country in order to help achieve something great for our kind, I assume that this is the next part of that role."

Heldric looks closely at those around him Hmm that one is far too pretty, the rest are appropriately ugly though. I will have to ascertain each of their abilities and allegiance quickly
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 26, 2015, 01:33:07 pm
Steeple takes out a large table doily and dabs his mouth, as if it were a handkerchief. Stuffing it back in his pocket with his only hand, he then removes a fist-sized stone (Prince Maurice) from another pocket and dusts it off.

"Thank you, I was simply famished!" he says to the stone, "I know, right? That's what I said, HA HA HA!"

Then turning to see the others assembled, he bows with a flourish and says, "Hello! Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your service!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 26, 2015, 01:34:26 pm
"I do believe that one of those men is a women." Prince Maurice states confusedly.

Barrabas groans under Steeple's feet.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 26, 2015, 01:42:11 pm
Steeple takes out a large table doily and dabs his mouth, as if it were a handkerchief. Stuffing it back in his pocket with his only hand, he then removes a fist-sized stone (Prince Maurice) from another pocket and dusts it off.

"Thank you, I was simply famished!" he says to the stone, "I know, right? That's what I said HA HA HA!"

Then turning to see the others assembled, he bows with a flourish and says, "Hello! Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your service!"

Hmm unbalanced, useful information "Greetings! Heldric at your service." Heldric replies with a bow of the head, feigning joviality for the crazy man
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 26, 2015, 01:43:59 pm
Steeple takes out a large table doily and dabs his mouth, as if it were a handkerchief. Stuffing it back in his pocket with his only hand, he then removes a fist-sized stone (Prince Maurice) from another pocket and dusts it off.

"Thank you, I was simply famished!" he says to the stone, "I know, right? That's what I said HA HA HA!"

Then turning to see the others assembled, he bows with a flourish and says, "Hello! Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your service!"

"Kiril Petrov Veranin, Lord of Vitosha, a pleasure to make your acquaintance."  The polite reply is practically a reflex. 
As always, he checks to see if there's anything useful he can deduce from their appearances, the one-armed man and the ugly one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 26, 2015, 01:47:23 pm
Steeple takes out a large table doily and dabs his mouth, as if it were a handkerchief. Stuffing it back in his pocket with his only hand, he then removes a fist-sized stone (Prince Maurice) from another pocket and dusts it off.

"Thank you, I was simply famished!" he says to the stone, "I know, right? That's what I said HA HA HA!"

Then turning to see the others assembled, he bows with a flourish and says, "Hello! Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your service!"
Anton looks at the man.
"Anton Petrov Veranin. You were just talking to the rock, correct?" Anton asks. Insanity is also a sign of damnation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 26, 2015, 01:52:25 pm
"Kiril Petrov Veranin, Lord of Vitosha, a pleasure to make your acquaintance."  The polite reply is practically a reflex. 
As always, he checks to see if there's anything useful he can deduce from their appearances, the one-armed man and the ugly one.

Ugly one is obviously a Nosferatu and appears to be exceedingly well fed. The one-armed man is an albino and extremely pale - and yet his veins do not stand out against his skin. He is clearly completely filled with vitae.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 26, 2015, 01:53:53 pm
Anton looks at the man.
"Anton Petrov Veranin. You were just talking to the rock, correct?" Anton asks. Insanity is also a sign of damnation.

Prince Maurice replies to Anton (though only Steeple can hear him).

"The rock? The rock?! Young man my name is Maurice! And that's Prince Maurice to you! I cannot believe you dare treat me like a simple, mindless object of no worth! Behave yourself lest I challenge you to a bout of fisticuffs!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 26, 2015, 02:09:02 pm
"I'm sure he didn't mean it," Steeple says to the rock soothingly, placing it back into his pocket.

Then to Anton he replies, "Talking to a rock? How preposterous haha! I may be eccentric, but I'm not mad."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 26, 2015, 02:24:06 pm
Anton nods.
"It is no shame, Steeple Carson Olof Trevskey. The damned carry their punishments." Anton states. "All of us."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 26, 2015, 02:45:49 pm
"The Fourth," Steeple adds, "But you can call me Steeple."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 26, 2015, 03:13:26 pm
Heldric Eyes up the City Gates. "Shall we enter then, Our meeting point is inside the gates and The locals here lock up at night to try and prevent... well.. Us."

Heldric is starting to get uncomfortable int he crowd now, he much preferes to be the un-noticed observer and plans to get inside the city soon so he can find a suitable refuge.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 26, 2015, 03:40:22 pm
"Yes, quite," Steeple replies to Heldric, "anyone know any good places for our kind, here in the city to while away the hours waiting for whatever it is we are waiting for?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 26, 2015, 04:48:27 pm
"If only." Lucien replied to the weird one armed man.

"Now, i do not know if any of you are as malnourished as myself, but i need to hunt reaĺly soon. And it appears some of you need to do that aswell. I agree with Heldric. Lets get a move on.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 26, 2015, 05:51:27 pm
"Ah, well, you guys have fun!" Steeple says, waving his hand at the group. "I'll see you around the square."

Then yelling for Igor - "Igor, load this 'luggage' onto the carriage," meaning that Barrabas is to be strapped down with the luggage.

"Sebastian; you drive our carriage - do care not to scuff it. Igor, you drive this one." Steeple directs his Herd.

"We'll go into town and see if we can find the livery stable or something."

Steeple intends to find a place for the horses and carriages and then to just hang around until the time appointed to meet in the square.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 26, 2015, 05:54:54 pm
Anton looks towards one of the carriages.
"We have one more kindred to wait for."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Bo on January 26, 2015, 06:56:18 pm
Sylvian exits the enclosed wagon, having gained sufficient information from his ghoul Odi. He briefly introduces himself as an artiste of fine skill and extreme sexiness to the rest of the crew, perhaps or perhaps not showing some distaste for the uggos in the crowd before agreeing with the others that they should probably enter the city.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 02:55:43 pm
The group makes their way to the city's gates - where the town guards are beginning to close the gates for the night. One guard motions with his lantern from afar and calls out, “If you wish to enter the city tonight, you had best hurry! The gates are closing!”
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 27, 2015, 03:04:25 pm
"In like Flin," Steeple says, as his carriages make their way through.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 27, 2015, 03:07:34 pm
"Make it go faster, thingy." Lucien said to the ghoul.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 27, 2015, 03:14:09 pm
Anton nods.
"Quicken the pace, brother Joseph."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 27, 2015, 03:15:20 pm
Heldric calls out to his driver "Please ensure we get inside before the gates close. I will be rather angry if I am forced to enter by climbing a wall." before settling back in his chair to pet his crocodile "Don't worry Mr. Whitey, I'm sure I can find a suitable human to play fetch with you once we a re settled in." He then turns to Andreas, nudging him awake if he has not woken yet "We are entering the city and there are several others here from different clans, it appears we are involved with something important. I need you to keep and eye out though, no point coming this far to find a betrayer in our midst."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 03:32:54 pm
Andreas nods briefly, then a series of growls and low rumbles escape his throat.

Mr. Whitey translates for Heldric - "He wants you to make him look pretty."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 03:44:56 pm
The guards keep the gate open once they see the travelers speeding up - and the vampires and their servants enter the city of Budapest.

Immediately inside the gates the characters find themselves in the city's cattle market, where young boys and older servants are watching lines of livestock. Everyone (except for Anton) feels that, if they are careful, they could likely feed from some of the cattle (or maybe even the servants watching them).

Otherwise, if they are unwilling to take such a risk, signs indicate that the main road through Pest leads westward through the city and into the central market.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 27, 2015, 04:01:50 pm
"Stop" Lucien orders his ghoul. He then jumps off and makes his way to one of the older servants.

"You there. where might a man find some... female company for the night?" he asks as he plays with some coins in his hands.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 27, 2015, 04:11:36 pm
Heldric considers the animals before deciding that he is not in any great need for vitae right now. "Onward driver, we have no need to stop here."

Heldric quickly takes the time to concentrate on Adreas's appearence, once ready he carefully begins casting obsfucate on him, trying to make him look like an attractive man Heldric once knew who was of similar size and Andreas (now dead and from a long way away) "hopefully this should suffice for you" he announces once satisfied.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 04:27:01 pm
Andreas nods silently and then gets out of the back of the wagon stepping out and stretching his legs, following from outside. They're forced to move at a slower pace now that they're out in the crowded market anyways.

Lucien

"Stop" Lucien orders his ghoul. He then jumps off and makes his way to one of the older servants.

"You there. where might a man find some... female company for the night?" he asks as he plays with some coins in his hands.

The man looks at Lucien, confused (and slightly disgusted) - but at the sight of the coins, he smiles readily enough - offering Lucien one of the pigs. Lucien notes that it is a female pig.

Ennius discreetly smiles.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 27, 2015, 04:46:54 pm
"Would you be able to discreetly take one of them?" Kiril asks Carinus.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 04:49:32 pm
"Would you be able to discreetly take one of them?" Kiril asks Carinus.

"Which one?" Carinus asks, as he begins eyeing the crowd.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 27, 2015, 05:15:45 pm
"Which one?" Carinus asks, as he begins eyeing the crowd.

"That's up to you, of course," Kiril replies. "You know I trust your judgement."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 27, 2015, 05:17:38 pm
Anton looks away from the animals, but continues to ride onwards, hoping to keep his beast calm, until he can find proper feed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 05:25:19 pm
Anton

Anton looks away from the animals, but continues to ride onwards, hoping to keep his beast calm, until he can find proper feed.

The press of warm, human bodies and his ravenous hunger has the beast raging within Anton - so much so that he needs to bring his strong will to bear lest he enter a frenzy right then and there.

As Anton moves through the various animals atop Fantoma, they begin to panick - pigs squeal in a sudden panic and fight their owners to get away, horses viciously buck at the servants holding their reins, cows bellow and struggle to escape their leashes.

Luckily for Anton, none of the animals here are predatory - or he would have been made rather quickly as they would have all flocked to him.

The market is temporarily thrown into disarray as Anton passes it.

Kiril

"That's up to you, of course," Kiril replies. "You know I trust your judgement."

Carinus nods and gets off the wagon, disappearing into the crowd.

"Should we wait for him?" Fernando asks.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 27, 2015, 06:19:03 pm
"No need," says Kiril.  "He'll find us."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 27, 2015, 06:30:17 pm
Lucien walks away from the man to Ennius.

"Ennius, force two humans to come with us. They shall serve as tonights dinner."

"Make sure the pigFarker is one of them."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 06:33:23 pm
"My lord, I believe from his initially disgusted expression that he believes you to be the pigFarker." He says, smiling.

Lucien also might want to reconsider his orders - it would be extremely rude to have his men seizing people in the city, especially when he is a very memorable figure. Indeed, if Ennius took two men, and those men died or were never seen again, it is unlikely Lucien would see the next night - whether it be mortals that kill him or Prince Vencel Rikard who stakes him and puts him away into a dungeon to spend the next few millenia in torpor.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 27, 2015, 06:40:49 pm
Quote
The press of warm, human bodies and his ravenous hunger has the beast raging within Anton - so much so that he needs to bring his strong will to bear lest he enter a frenzy right then and there.

As Anton moves through the various animals atop Fantoma, they begin to panick - pigs squeal in a sudden panic and fight their owners to get away, horses viciously buck at the servants holding their reins, cows bellow and struggle to escape their leashes.

Luckily for Anton, none of the animals here are predatory - or he would have been made rather quickly as they would have all flocked to him.

The market is temporarily thrown into disarray as Anton passes it.

Anton grins softly. Chaos is good.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 27, 2015, 06:42:57 pm
Riding into the city, Steeple activates Domino of Life so that he can eat food.

He waits until he gets near the square and looks for a high class inn to order a dinner for himself and his herd. He intends to dine inside (of course) and have the rest of the food and drink delivered to the wagons for his servants to eat there.

"I suppose we can order 'the footstool' some sustenance too," Steeple says to Prince Maurice (regarding Barabus), "It's the least we can do for his gracious offer of his own lifeblood."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 27, 2015, 06:47:53 pm
Andreas nods silently and then gets out of the back of the wagon stepping out and stretching his legs, following from outside. They're forced to move at a slower pace now that they're out in the crowded market anyways.

Heldric maintains his spot acting un-obtrusive for now, the driver can keep them moving slowly until they are free from the current press of people he does however quietly order her again. "Take us somewhere quieter where we might pass a few hours relatively undisturbed, a small side street or warehouse area would suffice. Not too far from our meeting spot though." Having given his awkwardly specific instructions he sits in silence.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 27, 2015, 08:13:59 pm
"Yeah Yeah, you frekkin comedian." Lucien said to Ennius.

"Lets head to the castle and introduce ourselfs to the prince. And get off my horse." He said, then he waited for Ennius to dismount before mounthing Joseph.

And no you perverted freaks, he didnt mount the horse that way.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 27, 2015, 08:29:38 pm
Sylvian, not deigning the animals worthy of his fangs, moves along with the rest of the coterie.

None of the hungry dead manage to slake their thirsts in the cattle market - and so they move past the area and goes westwards to the central market area

Just before passing through the central market, the characters hear the sound of a small crowd ahead. In the center of the market, a slave auction is in progress. The characters can see a paunchy man standing atop a platform. He holds a chain linked to a collar attached to a roughly clad, miserable looking captive, who is forced to kneel before him, hands bound behind her back. A line of other captives is chained to a large stake driven into the ground nearby. Two men stand guard over them.

Several people stand before the platform; a few call out bids. Torches illuminate the stage, but leave most of the crowd and nearby streets in shadow.Some members of the crowd appear to be little more than brigands, bearded, heavily armed men drawn from the nearby taverns to watch the entertainment. A few look as though they might be merchants in search of slaves to help in the workplace. One man stands out from the crowd. Obviously a nobleman, as evidenced by his fine clothes and jewelry, he seems bored by the current offering, yet is clearly agitated. Perhaps he is waiting for something better to be offered.

Aldric's eyes settle on the nobleman - who then says, in a curious tone - "He is so pale, and tinged with red. Impatient, uneasy and bored."

Sylvian gathers from Aldric's comment that the nobleman is a vampire.

Steeple and Lucien both hear this comment, as Aldric does not make any attempt to speak in a low voice.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 27, 2015, 08:36:20 pm
Lucien dismounts Joseph. "Joseph, sit." He tells the horse.

He then walks up to the other Vampire. "Greetings." He says.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 28, 2015, 07:05:46 am
"Ooh, slaves," Steeple marvels. "How utterly barbaric!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 28, 2015, 02:11:07 pm
As everyone stops - whether because they're waiting for the others or because they've decided to make a purchase - a man calls out the final bid for the first slave, who is sold for a tidy sum of 100 Pence  (Around 8 shillings, or 2/3rds of a Librum).

The woman was dragged and handed off to her new master - a stern looking man in a gray hat. Walking back into the shadows as he spoke, the Barker grabbed a girl and pulled her up to the stage. Even before she reached the torch light the vampires could see that she was beautiful. In the flight she was a vision. Her hair, long and raven black, fell to her shoulders in waves. Her almond eyes were dark and haunted, and her beautiful face was set into a hard mask as she stepped forward. Her dress - once fine, a deep blue fabric, probably silk, had been torn and dirtied up but the lines told the truth of it.

As he lifts her to the top of the platform, the auctioneer calls out,“What am I bid for this woman? Virgin and untouched, obedient and beddable.”

The vampiric nobleman - who Lucien had not reached yet at this juncture, having just gotten off his horse - immediately calls out, now finally having his interest sparked - "500!"

As the auctioneer turns to survey the crowd, the woman snakes out her foot and trips him. She leaps off the platform to her left near the group. To the laughter of the crowd, the auctioneer lands heavily. The woman streaks toward an alley, frantically moving her arms behind her as she attempts to free herself of her bonds

The guards have not yet started after her - gathering their wits perhaps - and the crowd seems amused enough by her escape that they likely won't give chase.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 28, 2015, 02:23:49 pm
"510!" Steeple yells out, motioning for the girl to come his way.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 28, 2015, 02:26:52 pm
Lucien smirks at the girls misguided attempt at freedom.

"Ennius!" Lucien calls out. "Stop her." He says loudly enough for his servant to hear. He then proceeds to the vampire, and tries to gather information about by his looks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 28, 2015, 03:07:47 pm
Looking back at the crowd making the noise Heldric calls out to the girl driving "Hold a moment, I will observe this" He calls down to Andreas "See what you can observe but don't draw too much attention, I will watch from the the carriage."

Heldric makes sure he is covered by his cloak and obsfucate is making him look more human just in case then stands so he can see over the crown, using the driving bench to allow him so see over the roof of carriage.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 28, 2015, 03:30:40 pm
Seeing that no one else intends to do anything, Kiril decides to give chase.
He's fairly certain he can catch a partially-tied-up slave girl.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 28, 2015, 03:34:36 pm
Anton quickly rides after the young woman, riding Fantoma foward. He'll make sure to keep his horse's speed slower then it's maximum, to make sure he doesn't reaxh the young girl in the sigh of others.

He'll look to Kiril, while riding. Hopefully he feels the same way. This woman should not be tainted.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 28, 2015, 04:05:42 pm
The girl made good time, running to her right towards an alley off of the square. As Anton gave chase, the Beast begged him to urge Fantoma to run as fast as she could - but he swatted it down, and raced through the narrow alleyways, his armoured knees almost scraping against the walls of the buildings nearby.

Lucien told Ennius to give chase as well, as he and the schlatza followed at a more leisurely pace. The knight is slow, however, and burdened by his armour, moving notably less quickly than the girl, Anton or Kiril.

Kiril also takes flight, confident in his ability to find the girl - though Anton rapidly outpaces him atop Fantoma.

Heldric sees Kiril, Ennius and Anton disappear into the city. The guards follow but the Nosferatu cannot tell where they go. Then he sees the nobleman briefly glare at Steeple and join the chase.

Steeple is left in the dust, no one truly caring for his bid.

"You know old chap, I do think that nobleman just challenged you to a race!" Prince Maurice adds.

Sylvian, impressed by the girl's beauty sends forth Aldric, wishing to know what was going on while he followed himself with Odi at a more leisurely pace, similar to Lucien.

The girl reached the alley only to find it a dead end. She turned, ready to face the guards only to find Anton staring down at her from atop his black warhorse, a knight from hell. She cowers down into a corner, terrified. Kiril soon joins, and she rushes towards him.

“Te rog, te rog! Trebuie să mă ajuţi!” – She cried in Romanian at him as she grabbed at his coat. Kiril didn’t know how to respond.

“Please! Please! You have to help me!” - She cried again this time in Hungarian.

“Please, I am of royal blood, I have been taken from my family by men who wanted a ransom that they could not pay. I am no slave, you must save me from them and this monster.” – The girl cried.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 28, 2015, 04:16:56 pm
Kiril puts one arm protectively around the girl and faces down his brother.  "Keep back, brother," he says in Slavonic, "I can handle this."

"Shh. . . Yes, I'll help you," he says in Hungarian to the girl.  "It's all right, you'll be safe with me."  He looks her over, attempting to discern how much of her story might be true.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 28, 2015, 04:18:50 pm
Heldric thinks for a moment before calling out to Andreas and his driver. "I am going to follow them and see what transpires, both of you guard the carriage and Mr. Whitey, I do not trust this city yet.

Heldric keeps his cloak up, and careful not to touch the people he passes, he starts following the noble.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 28, 2015, 04:24:26 pm
Kiril puts one arm protectively around the girl and faces down his brother.  "Keep back, brother," he says in Slavonic, "I can handle this."

"Shh. . . Yes, I'll help you," he says in Hungarian to the girl.  "It's all right, you'll be safe with me."  He looks her over, attempting to discern how much of her story might be true.
Anton looks at him.

"We do not have time, brother. One must ride, while the other distracts the guards." Anton states. "But not kill them. We can not kill here. Not yet."

"Fantoma and I shall distract the guards. Brother, may the Abyss shield you." Anton then adds. "Now go."

Anton then prepares, summoning a bit of darkness to cover Kiril's footsteps as he waits until the guards are in sight, and then ride in the wrong direction, slowly. Hopefully they will follow his trail.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 28, 2015, 04:35:21 pm
Lucien quickens his pace to catch up to the novle vampire.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 28, 2015, 04:58:11 pm
If the girl is willing, Kiril will take her with him as he attempts to get back to the carriage while avoiding the guards.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 28, 2015, 07:48:42 pm
"I don't feel like a chase," Steeple says to Maurice, losing interest in the slave auction now that everyone ran off after the girl.

"Now where's that nice inn?" he says, looking around the square.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 28, 2015, 08:30:08 pm
Kiril senses no deception in the girl, she huddles close to him. Kiril feels his fangs loosen in his jaw as he feels her warmth. He also feels her shiver, as she realizes how cold he is...

Heldric moves unseen through the backstreets, comfortable in the darkness. He soon catches up to Sylvian, noting the sound of the guards right ahead.

Sylvian has been moving through the alleys, looking for the girl and following his servant Aldric - when Aldric is crossed by a group of two guards. Both guards having recognized Aldric from when he ran after the girl, the thugs immediately restrain him and order him to tell them where their men are. Contemptuous of the two men, Sylvian moved forward and, using his magnificent force of Presence, entranced both guards, telling them they would be better off returning, that they wouldn't find the girl and that he would bring her back for them. A lie of course.

The guards went off to convince the other three men (further ahead) that they should just give up the chase, Sylvian going with them to help the case - when Ennius catches up with the Toreador.

Just then, however, Anton leaves, galloping away to try and draw off the guards that are no doubt somewhere nearby himself and Kiril. Anton thinks he hears a noise to his right - so he immediately makes  a hard left and shouts a loud "Hi-ya!', urging Fantoma forward.

In the space directly in front of him, Sylvian, Odi, Aldric, Ennius and five guards await. Aldric is the only one who recognizes him, everyone else, blinded by the dark alley, see only a fearsome monster atop a black horse. The two entranced guards immediately break their ensorcellement - and Anton, unable to stop in time, crashes into and straight through the men, throwing all of them forcefully into the walls and instantly earning their ire. Aldric, Odi and Sylvian would have soon shared in their fate as well - but Ennius stepped forward, and took a solid stance. Bracing himself, he let Fantoma strike him - and the horse stopped. Instantly.

Like if she had galloped into a wall, the force of the stop shatters Fantoma's chest - even with her armor and her supernatural Fortitude, she is gravely injured, and Anton himself is flung from his saddle, thrown clear over Sylvian and his servants.

Odi curses loudly and Aldric yells out - "it's Anton, it's Anton!"

It's now that Lucien arrives, seeing five bruised guards looking both hatefully at the fallen knight and fearfully at Ennius, who had just stopped a running horse in place without moving an inch.

The noble seems to have disappeared, being nowhere in sight. At least, not for them...

As Kiril moves, he hears a voice from his right - a place that the lord could have sworn was empty a mere moment before.

"Excuse me? May I help you?"

The nobleman (of course Kiril doesn't know he's a vampire, having not heard Aldric's statement) waits there with a large purse of coin between his hands - the implication clear. He wished to buy the girl who had so sparked his interest.

Steeple

"I don't feel like a chase," Steeple says to Maurice, losing interest in the slave auction now that everyone ran off after the girl.

"Now where's that nice inn?" he says, looking around the square.

The crowd is still here - and many of the men here reek of hard liquor, perhaps he can ask them?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 28, 2015, 08:46:37 pm
Anton quickly gets up, and checks on his horse, Fantoma, while glaring a bit at Enuis. His glare doesn't end, though he does look to the guards.

"I lost the girl." He states simply, while standing guardingly around his war horse.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 28, 2015, 08:52:43 pm
Lucien lets out a impressed whistle. "Still as though as the day i met you." He says to Ennius. "Appears we lost the girl though. Damn shame. She was exquisite." He slowly shaked his head.

"Oh well, there are more slaves there. Ennius, tell the damned guards to leave"
Anton quickly gets up, and checks on his horse, Fantoma, while glaring a bit at Enuis. His glare doesn't end, though he does look to the guards.

"I lost the girl." He states simply, while standing guardingly around his war horse.

He looks at Anton, then to Fantoma, then to Ennius.

"Wait, you tried to run over Ennius? And not succesfully at that i take it, looking at your horse, and your own scraped body." He smiled woefully.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 28, 2015, 08:55:14 pm
Anton simply glares at the womanly man, and keeps near his horse.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 28, 2015, 09:22:53 pm
"Is she going to pull trough?" Lucien asks Anton.

Anton looks at the vampire, and nods.
"She's a strong horse, she'll be fine." He states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 28, 2015, 09:27:19 pm
Anton looks at the vampire, and nods.
"She's a strong horse, she'll be fine." He states.
"Thats good. Now Anton, it seems these guards saw something they we're not supposed to." He said to Anton. Then he Turned to Ennius. "Kill them."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 28, 2015, 09:48:28 pm
Anton looks at him, and then looks at the guards.
"Those who serve the abyss need not fear the words of petty mortals." Anton whispers to the womanly man, glaring at the guards.

"My friends and I would prefer you never speak of this." Anton states cruely, holding lightly to the saber on his side. "Very much prefer."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 28, 2015, 10:05:07 pm
Lucien makes a stop motion with his hand to Ennius.

"Very well." He replied to Anton. He then turned to the guards. "Take this. And if i hear a word about this from any source... It wont be pretty." He said as he threw a small coinpurse at them. Enough to make them happy, and low enough to not impact his resources.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 29, 2015, 10:34:41 am
As Kiril moves, he hears a voice from his right - a place that the lord could have sworn was empty a mere moment before.

"Excuse me? May I help you?"

The nobleman (of course Kiril doesn't know he's a vampire, having not heard Aldric's statement) waits there with a large purse of coin between his hands - the implication clear. He wished to buy the girl who had so sparked his interest.

Kiril envelops the man's head in a Shroud of Night, then uses Arms of the Abyss, bringing the dark steel tentacles out of the nightshroud's darkness to restrain the man, after which he plans to feed upon him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 29, 2015, 12:42:53 pm
Obviously somthing odd is going on with all of this mess, there is also one vampire missing from the group along with the girl. Heldric moves as quietly as possible past the others in an attempt to find the missing two. If the alley is too full he will try to circle around a different way of climb low walls to gain vantage.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 29, 2015, 01:43:56 pm
Steeple meanwhile, circles the square with his carriage and wagon - looking for someone of a more reputable disposition than drunken brigands hooting at slave girls.

"Let's ask someone where the finest inn in the city is," he says to Prince Maurice, "Then we'll see about introducing ourselves to the local authority."

"Unless you see a castle around here first."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 29, 2015, 04:56:01 pm
Kiril

Kiril envelops the man's head in a Shroud of Night, then uses Arms of the Abyss, bringing the dark steel tentacles out of the nightshroud's darkness to restrain the man, after which he plans to feed upon him.

The man immediately leaps forward upon Kiril summoning the Shroud - and he turns his gaze on the vampire. Kiril finds himself cowed (if ever so temporarily), as the nobleman takes on a terrifying and monstrous appearance before his eyes.

Even if Kiril should use willpower to protect his mind from the Dread Gaze, the man speaks before he can continue the fight - and he says things in a furious tone that Kiril would be very foolish to ignore indeed.

"Cainite! I am Roland, Child of Otto, Seneschal to Prince Vencel Rikard, I have claimed that slave and you have just attacked me in my Prince's domain. If you give her up now then I will disregard what has happened here. If you do not, then my wrath will seem trifling compared to what is to come."

Obviously somthing odd is going on with all of this mess, there is also one vampire missing from the group along with the girl. Heldric moves as quietly as possible past the others in an attempt to find the missing two. If the alley is too full he will try to circle around a different way of climb low walls to gain vantage.

Heldric judges that he is not a skilled enough climber and that it would be to slow to climb up the alley walls and move over the blocked alleyway - so he takes a different turn, listening to the conflict as he goes past. He hears a man speaking in a furious tone, and sees Kiril with the beautiful slave girl standing next to him.

Lucien and Anton

One of the guards catches the purse and looks inside after Lucien's statement. They seem to hesitate after Anton's threat - clearly scared but perhaps also unwilling to leave without the slave girl - so Sylvian tosses them one of his own coin purses.

"Begone now, fools!"

The added bribe and the threat proves enough and the five guards depart, going back to the square.

Ennius resumes moving forward.

Steeple

Moving about the central market, Steeple sees that everything has been closed down - as is customary, of course, most markets close at nightfall. The only thing open is the slave market, and the only nobleman left to go chase after the girl.

Of course, the city's castle is easily visible for the central market.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 29, 2015, 05:12:25 pm
"And now you owe me and Ennius a meal." Lucien said to Anton as he he activated heightened senses (hearing) and tried to backtrack his way to find Kirin.

However first he said "Ennius, we're moving out."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 29, 2015, 05:25:40 pm
Heldric Ensures his obsfucate (Unseen Presence) is keeping him concealed then very slowly and carefully moves forward, taking even more care than usual to avoid things like debris and puddles which might give him away, this vampire does not appear weak.

He slips on his spiked punch gloves and moves until he is a few feet away from the combatants, just far enough to be out of range of any misguided attacks. He does not know the current situation however he wants to be close enough to observe the happenings and act if needs be.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 29, 2015, 07:04:47 pm
"And now you owe me and Ennius a meal." Lucien said to Anton as he he activated heightened senses (hearing) and tried to backtrack his way to find Kirin.

However first he said "Ennius, we're moving out."

Anton looks at Lucian.
"Avoiding the wrath of the Prince is worth more then the blood you would have gotten, kindred. The prince will feed us."

He then gets back on Fantoma, and follows Lucian. Anton'll get lost in these streets, easily.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 29, 2015, 07:39:06 pm
Moving about the central market, Steeple sees that everything has been closed down - as is customary, of course, most markets close at nightfall. The only thing open is the slave market, and the only nobleman left to go chase after the girl.

Of course, the city's castle is easily visible for the central market.

"Oh bother!" Steeple grumbles, "I guess it's to the castle then."

Steeple directs his herd in the direction of the castle, hoping to be the first to introduce himself to the prince.

"Do put on good airs everyone," Steeple says to his company, "We want to make a good first impression after all!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 29, 2015, 08:28:51 pm
The Prince's seneschal? Shit.  I can't, I won't let him take her!

Kiril again tries to restrain the man, Roland, with Arms of the Abyss.  He will burn Will to increase initiative if it helps.

I'll kill him.  Kill him and hide the body.  Carinus will help. She's mine, and he can't have her.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 29, 2015, 09:28:27 pm
Kiril desperately resists the Dread Gaze, steeling his will and forcing himself to continue fighting.

He disreguards Roland's warning, and immediately uses some of his precious remaining blood to try and summon Dark Steel arms - only to fail miserably. He tries again, refusing to give up and expending even more of his blood, and now his success is overwhelming, seemingly as a counter to his previous failure. 6 Arms are created from the shroud he'd previously created, and all of them move directly towards Roland's back - only to become entangled in Heldric, who had been keeping himself hidden directly behind Roland! Heldric feels the rough tendrils crash right into his back, throwing him forward and alerting Roland as to both his presence and that of the silent tendrils. His Obfuscate is immediately broken (though his appearance remains the same), and any precise attack he would have wished to throw destroyed by the sudden blow.

Turning his gaze onto the Nosferatu, Roland does not recoil with horror - perhaps he does not see what Heldric is?

He does, however, immediately give a single, irresistible order - "Cainite, you will beat this fool into torpor"

Heldric tries to resist of course - trying to turn his eyes away from the nobleman, resisting his order - but he is sadly unable to override the man's Dominate. Heldric rushes forward towards Kiril, and drives his fist into the Lasombra's stomach.

It is to this scene that the others arrive. Roland turns his head at the appearance of Anton and Ennius and Lucien, rapidly noting that they too were all Cainites.

He goes back to Kiril, striking him once across the face damaging and breaking open the skin there.

He speaks in a low and rapid tone.

"I lied, Cainite. I am not the Prince's seneschal, oh no. I serve someone far greater than that fool. I serve a monster who scoff at the idea of destruction, I serve a monster whose presence makes the very earth shake with fear and whose voice commands kings. You will live to regret this."

Before Kiril's very eyes, the man vanishes.

The girl has been backed up quite nicely in the corner while this was happening, trying very, very hard not to die.

Heldric feels himself be released from the mesmer.

"Oh bother!" Steeple grumbles, "I guess it's to the castle then."

Steeple directs his herd in the direction of the castle, hoping to be the first to introduce himself to the prince.

"Do put on good airs everyone," Steeple says to his company, "We want to make a good first impression after all!"

As Steeple makes his way through the center market and towards the Castle hill, he comes across a lively, bustling tavern! He could go and spend some time in there, or continue moving forward if he'd like.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 29, 2015, 09:49:17 pm
"What.. the.. Fark." Lucien says with a shocked tone.

"we havnt even been here a hour and you've already made enemies by the looks of it. And speaking of looks, i can change yours so he wont recognise you. But you'll owe me."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 29, 2015, 09:52:28 pm
"Hush now, kindred." Anton says to Lucian.

Anton then quickly rushes to his brother, moving swiftly off of his horse and to his brother's side.

"Are you alright, brother?" Anton asks. "And is the girl okay?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 29, 2015, 10:37:47 pm
Kiril pushes his brother away.  "Why aren't you chasing him?"

Carinus.  Where's Carinus?  Too much blood spent.  What happened?  Where did the other one come from? 

He looks for the girl, disregarding everyone else for now.  Is she all right?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 29, 2015, 10:40:13 pm
The girl (whose name no one has bothered asking for yet) seems perfectly fine, simply scared by the spectacle - particularly by the shadows, and now again Anton. It seems she is unused to Obtenebration.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 29, 2015, 10:45:10 pm
Heldric tuts out loud. "He used vanish from the minds eye, he knows high level obsfucate abilities." I will await you all back at the meeting point.

Heldric leaves and heads back to his carriage
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 29, 2015, 10:47:30 pm
Lucien gets a little pissed off at being Ignored.

"you did all this, for a mortal girl you know nothing about, started a fight with another cainite. Do you even realise what rules you have broken tonigh?" he asks angrily.

"Now, let me change your appearence to keep you safe from this monster he spoke about."

 And as we're likely to be working togheter since i assume all our sires wish us to be here i strongly suggest you either kill the girl or ghoul  Her. Mortals must not know of our existence."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 29, 2015, 10:51:45 pm
Kiril spends will if necessary to refrain from attacking Lucien.  "Can't you make him shut up?" he snaps towards Anton, before cautiously approaching the girl.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you," he says in Hungarian.  "I was trying to keep that man from taking you away."

If she seems okay, he'll continue.  "I'm Kiril- what's your name?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 29, 2015, 10:53:41 pm
Lucien gets a little pissed off at being Ignored.

"you did all this, for a mortal girl you know nothing about, started a fight with another cainite. Do you even realise what rules you have broken tonigh?" he asks angrily.

"Now, let me change your appearence to keep you safe from this monster he spoke about."

 And as we're likely to be working togheter since i assume all our sires wish us to be here i strongly suggest you either kill the girl or ghoul  Her. Mortals must not know of our existence."
"Lucian, do not question my brother, or order him about." Anton states strongly.

He then turns to the girl, and speaks in Hungarian.
"Calm down. My brother will keep you safe." He states, and then looks back at Kiril.

"Do not fear, brother. We shall feed soon. Take the girl and we shall head to the prince's castle." He states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 29, 2015, 11:02:59 pm
"If you had listened to me, i did not presume to order him around. I offered suggestions. I even offered to help with with his.. newly aquired friend."

"And if any of you think you're above the traditions then you disgrace not only yourself but your sire's. And that means  you dont get to enjoy your new life for long."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 29, 2015, 11:05:19 pm
Kiril

Kiril spends will if necessary to refrain from attacking Lucien.  "Can't you make him shut up?" he snaps towards Anton, before cautiously approaching the girl.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you," he says in Hungarian.  "I was trying to keep that man from taking you away."

If she seems okay, he'll continue.  "I'm Kiril- what's your name?"

The girl stands up now, to her full height, and pats at her ripped dress.

"I am  fine, thank you. My name is Sherazhina Basarab. And you are no mortal man."

Kiril immediately recognizes the name as that of one of the most powerful Revenant families in all of Transylvania. As a revenant, the girl could be a useful servant... and could serve him well should they need to have any dealings with the family or its vampiric members in the future. Of course, he could also always just let her go.

"My family can pay you well for my rescue, be it in blood or gold. I will never forget the service you have done me."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 29, 2015, 11:16:49 pm
Lucien sighs heavily.

"Im sorry. I got a little too worked up and i apologize for my outburst. I did not mean to offend."

"Anton, would you mind translatating what they are saying to me?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 29, 2015, 11:22:49 pm
Lucien sighs heavily.

"Im sorry. I got a little too worked up and i apologize for my outburst. I did not mean to offend."

"Anton, would you mind translatating what they are saying to me?"
Anton shakes his head.
"It is not my place, Lucien." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 29, 2015, 11:25:08 pm
Anton shakes his head.
"It is not my place, Lucien." Anton states.

Rather kindly (for Lucien at least), Sylvian translates anyway.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 29, 2015, 11:40:14 pm
"Basarab?" He says to himself. "I know that name." he walked up to Kiril "Well lucky you, it appears your new friend is not mortal after all."

"And sorry Kiril. I mean it. the offer still stands to remake your appearence. You dont hafto owe me anything."

He then turned to Anton. "If i offended you, i can remake you lf any appearence if you wish aswell Anton. No strings attached. After all, a craftsman is as happiest when making a masterpiece."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 29, 2015, 11:46:02 pm
Kiril gives her the best bow he can muster.
"Will you stay with me, for now?  That monster, Roland, he may still be after you."

He turns to Lucien.  "You are really hoping to resculpt someone's face, aren't you?  Are all Tzimisce so eager to practice their craft?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 29, 2015, 11:48:47 pm
Anton nods.
"I thank you for the offer, Lucien. But now is not the time for such things, we only have a few hours until
The meeting, and the prince is waiting."

"Kiril, do what you please with the girl, though I ask you to keep her untainted. I will worry about her faith soon, but it is neither the place or time for that. We must go." He states to his brother, as he grasps the reigns on his horse.

"lead the way, fellows."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 29, 2015, 11:56:54 pm
Kiril gives her the best bow he can muster.
"Will you stay with me, for now?  That monster, Roland, he may still be after you."

He turns to Lucien.  "You are really hoping to resculpt someone's face, aren't you?  Are all Tzimisce so eager to practice their craft?"

Somewhat warily, she aquiesces.

"And may I know who you are?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 29, 2015, 11:59:23 pm
"Most of us are. Its our greatest asset after all."

He then turned to Anton. "It would only take a moment. A brief moment of pain."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 30, 2015, 12:00:52 am
"Kiril Petrov Veranin, Lord of Vitosha.  My sire is Basilio, Prince of Sofia.  This is my brother, Anton.  We are travelling with these other gentlemen to a meeting in the market square."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 12:20:14 am
"Kiril Petrov Veranin, Lord of Vitosha.  My sire is Basilio, Prince of Sofia.  This is my brother, Anton.  We are travelling with these other gentlemen to a meeting in the market square."

"Pleasure to meet you, lord Kiril."

Heldric

Out in the central market, Heldric notes that Steeple is gone. The slave auctions are now back on, with the auctioneer and his thugs now being extra-careful regarding the slaves. He also sees Carinus approaching with a young boy, and an old man, leading a cow. He looks about briefly before moving to Heldric and asking him - "Evening Heldric, would you be able to tell me where the good lord Kiril is?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 30, 2015, 12:25:22 am
Heldric nods to him "The direction I came from then...(he gives the directions) be weary of the guards and... i believe a nosferatu who might still be in the area."

He then heads back to his carriage and signals Andreas to join him. "It's time we were heading to the castle." He says loud enough for the girl driving to hear.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 12:36:19 am
Carinus nods his thanks and looks to the two others.

"It seems my lord is unavailable at the moment, however you are both willing to wait here, yes?"

Heldric notes a bit of command in Carinus' voice. The cannibal repeats the statement to both the boy and the old man, and he deduces that the ghoul is dominating them into compliance.

They both nod their agreement and Carinus smiles a sharp smile.

Heldric then departs, to join Steeple in plot-limbo.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 30, 2015, 08:42:01 am
Meanwhile at the tavern, Steeple enjoys some light repast and good wine, having some sent out to his herd (who are watching the wagon and carriage outside).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 30, 2015, 01:57:35 pm
"We should return to the carriages," Kiril looks to Anton for confirmation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 30, 2015, 01:58:44 pm
Anton nods.

"We just need to know how to get back." Anton states, having really no idea how to get back. He's already lost,
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 30, 2015, 02:06:31 pm
"I think i remember the way." Lucien says as he starts heading back.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 02:15:19 pm
It occurs to Lucien that perhaps returning to the slave auction with the escaped slave and the people who took her would be an incredible waste of all of their efforts to cover up her escape.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 30, 2015, 02:22:14 pm
It also occurs to him that Joseph is there.

"On second thougt, wait here." He said as he made his way back.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 02:25:45 pm
Returning to the square, Lucien sees Carinus and a few men and women, along with his Schlatza, Joseph sitting down and his wagon.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 30, 2015, 02:33:24 pm
Lucien first goes to his wagon. "Take it to the castle wait there for further instructions."

Then he goes to Joseph and starts petting him."Such a good boy. such a goood good boy. Then he mounts him and goes to Carinus. Maybe the people with him could lead the way.  He explains the situation quitly to him and asks him to followm
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 02:44:24 pm
Carinus quickly suggests then - "You could simply leave a different way, the Castle Hill should be visible from wherever you leave. I'll wait for you at the edge of the river."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 30, 2015, 02:55:38 pm
Lucien nods. "Fair enough." he heads back and tells the rest the idea.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 03:09:56 pm
Meanwhile at the tavern, Steeple enjoys some light repast and good wine, having some sent out to his herd (who are watching the wagon and carriage outside).

The tavern is called "The House of the Red Hedgehog", and within, Steeple has been enjoying the general aura of revelry that encompasses the fine establishment.

Located between the castle and the church district, the Red Hedgehog is an inn catering to visiting nobles and people of wealth who wish to stay in the castle district of Buda rather than in the market area of Pest. Accommodations and food are said to be the best in the city, and the inn's division of its tavern portion into three smaller, linked areas makes each seem private without feeling closed in.

As he sits, scoping out the humans in the area, he notices a man dressed in a simple, dark monk's robe, his face shadowed by the robe's cowl, walking towards him. The man takes a seat across his table and sits there, doing absolutely nothing but starting at Steeple.

After a while, he talks - his voice is a rich, warm and captivating one - a storyteller's voice, in fact.

"Might you be willing to tell me how you lost your arm?"

His tone is curious.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 30, 2015, 03:27:28 pm
"It's tale, not for the feint of heart," Steeple replies, glad for the company.

"Most harrowing in fact."

Then leaning in to whisper, so only the man can hear, he explains, "lost it to the most fiendish of nuns many years ago, while I slept off a rather heavy night of drinking in a gutter near a cathedral!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 30, 2015, 03:27:56 pm
Lucien nods. "Fair enough." he heads back and tells the rest the idea.

Kiril is pleased to hear that Carinus has returned.  He immediately agrees to meet his servant at the rivers edge.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 03:33:41 pm
The man lets out a hearty laugh, before continuing - now smiling at Steeple.

"It sounds like a story i'd love to tell someday. Excuse me, i'm Master P, though people often call me Anonymous. What's your name?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 30, 2015, 06:32:01 pm
"Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth," Steeple replies to the man, feeling more at ease now.

"A pleasure to meet you."

"So you are a chronicler or an illuminator of sorts then?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 30, 2015, 07:00:46 pm
Kiril is pleased to hear that Carinus has returned.  He immediately agrees to meet his servant at the rivers edge.
"Good. Then we should get moving " Lucien replied With a pleasant smile.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 09:08:12 pm
Steeple

"Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth," Steeple replies to the man, feeling more at ease now.

"A pleasure to meet you."

"So you are a chronicler or an illuminator of sorts then?"

"Quite the name you have there. Excellent guess, yes, I'm a scribe, I work in humble service to Bela III."

He smiles devilishly when he says the word humble.

"I'm afraid I can't stay for long, but just a suggestion - be nice, he has many powerful friends, but he cannot trust them, nor should he."

With that, Anonymus promptly leaves the table, and exits the tavern.

Steeple soon finds that he is joined by a different man - he is dressed in gaudy clothes, but there is no other sign of wealth on his person. His eyes are warm and filled with laughter.

"Evening, I couldn't help but notice another Kindred in the city. I can't say i've ever seen you here before."

The comments are not hostile or interrogatory, rather it seems like an attempt to strike up conversation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 09:11:50 pm
Meanwhile, Heldric has just spotted Steeple's wagon, stopped by the side of a tavern called the House of the Red Hedgehog.

Kiril, Lucien and Anton have just departed for the edge of the river, and will soon arrive (after two posts from Heldric or Steeple)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 30, 2015, 09:45:51 pm
Heldric pauses and calls ahead. "Hold here, I will head inside for a time."

Heldric then heads into the tavern, relying on altered appearence to make him appear normal.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 09:48:37 pm
Inside the Nosferatu sees Steeple talking to the previously described vampire - though of course Heldric does not recognize him as such.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 30, 2015, 10:42:17 pm
Heldric moves to a nearby seat to listen in
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 10:48:48 pm
Lucien, Kiril and Anton all, at this moment, pass by a tavern, recognizing the enclosed wagons. Carinus is also there, waiting with a dominated old man and a boy, along with a rather large pig.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 30, 2015, 10:57:51 pm
Steeple soon finds that he is joined by a different man - he is gaudy clothes, but there is no other sign of wealth on his person. His eyes are warm and filled with laughter.

"Evening, I couldn't help but notice another Kindred in the city. I can't say i've ever seen you here before."

The comments are not hostile or interrogatory, rather it seems like an attempt to strike up conversation.

"Greetings," Steeple says heartily, "Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your service! I've come from Prague to meet some new business associates. I'm in the salt trade, but like to season that with other endeavors now and then - if you'll pardon the pun haha!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 30, 2015, 10:58:32 pm
"Carinus!" Kiril is obviously delighted to see his friend.  "Carinus, this is Sherazhina, she's going to be joining us."

Kiril then proceeds to feed on the man, boy and pig, trying not to kill any of them.  Once he was sufficiently replenished, he would offer his blood to Carinus and Sherazhina.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 11:04:08 pm
"Greetings," Steeple says heartily, "Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your service! I've come from Prague to meet some new business associates. I'm in the salt trade, but like to season that with other endeavors now and then - if you'll pardon the pun haha!"

The vampire grins at the pun.

"Clearly a man who enjoys good humour!" Prince Maurice exclaims.

"I take it you haven't met the Prince yet? I think i'd have remembered seeing you in his court. I'd be happy to introduce you."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 30, 2015, 11:06:53 pm
"Yeah, I was waiting for some fellows to go announce ourselves to the Prince."

"Might I enquire as to your name?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 11:09:59 pm
"Vassily Taltos of clan Ravnos, Diplomatic advisor to the Eastern Lords."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 30, 2015, 11:16:35 pm
"Carinus!" Kiril is obviously delighted to see his friend.  "Carinus, this is Sherazhina, she's going to be joining us."

Kiril then proceeds to feed on the man, boy and pig, trying not to kill any of them.  Once he was sufficiently replenished, he would offer his blood to Carinus and Sherazhina.

Carinus bows deeply to Sherazhina, kissing her hand as he does so.

Righting himself, he then says - "It is my pleasure to be your acquaintance, miss Sherazhina...?"

"Basarab, i'm from the Basarab family" the girl says, clearly enjoying the man's treatment.

Kiril goes to feed on the old man. He finds it incredibly difficult to stop himself from draining the man dry - his self control is stretched to its very limits, though he manages to hold the Beast at bay, just barely, While forcefully sucking out a good deal of blood. He notes that the child does not react to his draining of the old man. Moving on to said child, he continues slaking his thirsts - still fighting against the Beast, but with more notable success. It still refuses to give up though, straining against its cage.

When he has gotten what he can without risking the child's life, Kiril moves on to the pig - the foul creature's blood is like piss in his mouth after the old man and the boy (and they weren't exactly fine specimens to begin with) but Kiril still finds its blood somewhat nourishing.

Steeling his will, Kiril then finally manages to stave off the Beast, having kept his total control the entire time he was feeding.

Once he is done, Carinus enters Kiril's wagon to get a fine glass to drink from - Kiril believes it is the same one he'd used back at his home in Sofia.

Kiril's blood drips into the glass, and Carinus offers it to Sherazhina.

Warily, the revenant drinks from the glass. Her nostrils flare as it goes down her throat, and her eyes open rather wide as the potent blood strengthens her, intermingling itself with her human blood.

Carinus then drinks himself, showing no visible reaction the the blood.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 31, 2015, 04:01:32 pm
"I guess we're the only starved ones left then" Lucien said to Anton. somewhat saddaned that he was not offered any blood.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 31, 2015, 06:34:50 pm
"We must follow the traditions to find favor in the Prince, Lucien." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 31, 2015, 06:52:52 pm
"Aye. Speaking of which, we should get moving. I wish to meet the prince."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 31, 2015, 07:40:49 pm
"Well, Vassily Taltos of clan Ravnos, Diplomatic advisor to the Eastern Lords," Steeple replies, getting up from the table to go "I'd be honored to have one of your renown introduce me to the Prince."

"Shall we?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 31, 2015, 08:12:14 pm
"Indeed, we shall"

The Ravnos gets up himself, and the two Cainites exit the tavern.

"He seems rather pleased if I do say so myself." Prince Maurice remarks.

---

Vassily leads the group to the edge of the river, and negotiates a ferry across for everyone. They start the climb up castle hill, hoping to finally introduce themselves to the Prince and then find out what they'd been called here for.

About halfway up the hill, they found themselves in a small division of modest homes, each shuttered, and the lamps here were fading fast, indeed when Anton passed too close to one it guttered out completely. As they made their way through the streets, they came upon an unusual sight.

It was a man, standing taller than most, he was large and powerful looking. His wild mane of hair was red. He wore a filthy tunic and an ancient looking breastplate that looked to be straight out of the Roman era. His eyes seemed to glow with whatever passion took hold of one such as he, their blue visible even on a night as dark as this one. In his right hand he held a spear, which he pounded against the ground when he saw them.

"Stand, O children, whose shoulders bear the burden of redemption!"

He addresses them all in Hungarian - those who can quickly translate for the others. His voice booms across the square, so powerful that it feels as if the earth trembles under it.

"Long have my eyes sought beyond to that which has been and will be. He rises and all must be ready! Soon you shall meet with one whose plans lead you into the heart of terror and exultation. Rejoice, for you shall witness all. You play a grand part in what comes. Ah! The sweetheart’s blood, let it wash away the sin. Eight signs of the coming nights shine within my vision. I see you within each. Though nothing is ever prevented, yet it might be transformed by the actions of a few. Go now, my children, and remember my words when the patterning is asked of you. Zolot lies; flee his visions! Prosper and we shall meet again.”

Should anyone look to Vassily at the moment, they will see that he stairs across into space dull and empty-eyed - he is clearly not aware of what is happening around him right now, nor is he in control of his own body.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on January 31, 2015, 08:30:46 pm
"Huh... Must be a Malkavian," Steeple says, "Can't understand a word of what he just said..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 31, 2015, 09:15:37 pm
Heldric (presumably having follow) looks around for people reactions while moving closer to Andreas. "Be prepared" he says softly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 31, 2015, 09:20:44 pm
"Huh... Must be a Malkavian," Steeple says, "Can't understand a word of what he just said..."

Anton looks at Steeple with confusion, but then looks to the other crazy man.

"Who rises, prophet?!" He demands.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on January 31, 2015, 09:53:25 pm
"Interesting." Lucien said to himself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on January 31, 2015, 09:53:41 pm
The group makes their various demands of the walking anachronism, or asks their questions - but he just looks briefly confused, before staring off to the right.

Should they look that way, the many kindred and their servants will see a light approaching. Soon, that light reveals itself to be none other than a torch bearing mob.

Carinus quietly utters a suggestion to Kiril at the mob's approach - "I believe we should leave now. The madman has uttered his prophecy, it would be best to live to see it pass. "

“My Lord Havnor, Holy One, we are here! What is your will?” – a man in the mob asked in Hungarian as he supplicates himself.

Havnor? Anton, Kiril, Lucien and Steeple all recognize the name as that of the Magyar god of thunder and lightning. Anton in particular remembers that Havnor was also the god of prophecy.

Havnor looked to the cainites and points his spear toward them again as he chants, at first too quietly for any to hear. However his voice grows and Anton recognizes it as Latin. It is the Prayer for the Dead.

His voice continues rising in strength, booming across the hill. The sky darkens and lightning flashes.

Vassily begins to break out of his stupor - and is then stunned by the display presented before him. Recovering rapidly, he quickly urges the Cainites ahead.

"Hurry, to the castle!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on January 31, 2015, 10:11:06 pm
Heldric wastes no time, commanding his retune toward the castle with all haste. He is a survivor St heart and mobs are bad for that...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on January 31, 2015, 10:18:00 pm
Kiril nods to Carinus. They could certainly defeat a mob of random peasants, but why waste time? Better to be on time for their meeting.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on January 31, 2015, 10:51:38 pm
They will have to be redeemed. But not now. Soon. Anton thinks to himself, moving onwards, thinking about the madmen' thoughts.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 12:05:40 am
The Cainites flee the mad god and his followers - and even as they run down the side street they hear him shouting in Hungarian, his voice thundering down the streets.

“Slay the agents of the evil one, for they will bring your ruin, my children!”

Fortunately, the mob does not catch up to the coterie. Vassily speaks up after a while.

"We've had issues here lately with the pagans, they've become much more unruly, especially worshippers of Havnor. Seems we now know why."

Eventually they make it to the castle district's outer wall, where a guard stands watch.

“Who goes there?” – The guard asked.

"Vassily Taltos, these men and women are all with me and have business in court."

“Very well, you may pass” – The Guard said, waving the cotterie on through - though he looks suspiciously at the plainly dressed Heldric and Andreas as the two Nosferatu pass by.

The six vampires and their mortal (and immortal) servitors step through the gate.

Even as they cross the threshold into the market square Steeple can't help but think that something was off.

He sees that Sylvian's servant Aldric feels it too, looking about, troubled.

Prince Maurice also comments on the situation.

"I do say old chap, I feel a tickling at the back of my spine. Like someone of unsavory character is staring at it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 01, 2015, 12:10:54 am
Anton, not noticing anything, simply countinues to walk ahead, and speaks to the Ravanos (though he doesn't know he's a ravanos, I think).

"Vassily. You need to remove the pagan presence from this city." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 01, 2015, 01:08:45 am
Heldric makes sure to keep Mr. Whitey and Andreas on either side of him as they walk
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 01, 2015, 09:59:29 am
"Yes," Steeple replies to Prince Maurice, still following Vassily to the Court - "Something is not right here. But then when you have gallivanting gods in your petunias, I do suppose it upsets the feng-shui a bit ..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 01, 2015, 11:44:18 am
"God of thunder eeh. Interesting." Lucien said to himself.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 12:49:28 pm
Aldric continues looking wildly back and forth, searching over everything in sight.

Then his eyes stop on a small, dark side alley. "What the hell?"

Then a look of realization dawns on his face.

He points his fingers at the alley.

"That shadow's a man!"

Should the others in the company look, they would see nothing but a patch of darkness - yet even as he pointed the shadows seemed to pale, revealing a tall, gangly man wearing robes of red and gold. Kiril recognized him at once - it was Roland. The vampiric nobleman was following them!
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 01, 2015, 01:37:11 pm
Kiril immediately calls arms of the abyss to strike at Roland from the nearest shadows. If it helps, he burns will to increase his initiative.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 01, 2015, 03:24:08 pm
Anton calmly follows suit, summoning tendrils from the darkness, and raising the abyss to greet the shadowy nobleman. It'd be best to remove the man.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 01, 2015, 03:41:14 pm
Heldric prepares to vanish from the minds eye if the man makes any sudden moves, and move away and go the side whether the vanishing throws him off or not. "Andreas, this man uses dominate, do not meet eyes with him. Mr. Whitey, if he attacks me of Andreas, remove his arms." Andreas obviously does not meet his eyes either
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 04:46:53 pm
Seeing that he's been spotted, the cowardly nobleman scowls and takes off, disappearing once more into the night before Kiril and Anton even get the chance to summon their tendrils.

Having shaken their pursuer, the group now continues in greater peace of mind. They pass by the meeting place they will need to come by later, and arrive at prince Vencel Rikard's castle. Guards greet them at the door - experienced, well armed men who stand aside and open the gates for Vassily.

The coterie is swept through the castle, their rather helpful guide bringing them to a long, richly decorated dining room.

"You should all wait here, the prince will be up shortly once he hears he has guests. Do be careful."

The Ravnos then leaves the cotterie to their own devices, disappearing into the castle walls to go fetch the prince. They have some short amount of time to talk amongst themselves before he should arrive.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 01, 2015, 04:52:49 pm
"Nice place" Lucien said approvingly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 01, 2015, 05:14:32 pm
Heldric looks around then addresses his question and the poshest dressed cainites there. "What would be better, appearing in my true form, or showing this more pleasing form while in disguise?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 01, 2015, 05:43:59 pm
"You got a true form?" Steeple replies to Heldric.

Then to the others in general, Steeple asks "So, how was your chase in the slave square?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 01, 2015, 05:53:06 pm
"I am a nosferatu after-all" Heldric replies

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 01, 2015, 05:56:55 pm
"Oh," Steeple say to Heldric with a smile, "It's hardly noticeable."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 01, 2015, 06:00:09 pm
Heldric shrugs and releases Obs to look like himself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 06:04:34 pm
This also unfortunately releases the obfuscate over Andreas.

Both Nosferatu's appearances elicit a look of disgust (quickly hidden) by Sylvian, unrepentant horror form his ghoul Aldric, and Sherazhina's disquiet.

Steeple's driver Barabas only just stops himself from spitting at the ground near the Nosferatus' feet.

"Oh my" Prince Maurice says.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 01, 2015, 06:06:24 pm
Heldric smiles at them "Well I did warn you before hand!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 01, 2015, 06:36:11 pm
"Wow," Steeple says, "Impressive, very impressive."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 01, 2015, 06:41:34 pm
"Nothing i can fix unfortunately." Lucien said while looking at them. "a curse is a curse."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 01, 2015, 07:16:28 pm
Kiril pulls Sherazhina gently to his side, but nods politely towards Heldric.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 01, 2015, 07:45:16 pm
"It is our purpose as the damned to hold our curse proudly." Anton states simply.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 01, 2015, 09:54:06 pm
Anton then states, "We will need to remove the Pagans from this city, as well as punish that stalker. It will be difficult to find him, however."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 10:01:13 pm
There is a polite coughing from the entrance to the dining room.

Though of only medium stature and build, Vencel Rikard projects an image of greater height and power. His light brown hair is offset by pale blue eyes that currently crinkle with good humor. He wears finely made, though not ostentatious, clothing; his sole adornment is a jeweled ring worn on his right index finger.

"Good evening my fellow kindred, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Buda-Pest. Please, sit."

He motions for them to take seats at the dining table. As he steps into the room, servants follow him. They set down finely decorated goblets at each of the Cainites' seats, and then from large pitchers pour a dark, red, hot liquid into them - which every vampire here immediately identifies as blood. Andreas, though full on the blood of beasts, immediately drinks his - perhaps wanting to wash out the taste and dullness that it could engender with the sweeter, invigorating human blood. Ennius takes his fill as well. Sylvian takes a small sip first, as if testing the goblet - most like for any of the prince's blood - and then, apparently satisfied, drinks his own fill.

Lucien's Beast screams for him to finally sate itself. Anton and Kiril's, though not as strongly, also insist.

The servants set the not-yet-empty pitchers down on the table and then depart, while the prince takes a seat at the head of the table.

Food is then brought in for the mortal servitors.

The prince then asks of them - "What brings you all to my fine city?"

Soon after, Vassily also enters the room, talking a seat directly to the right of the prince.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 01, 2015, 10:30:09 pm
First, Lucien sates his beast by drinking.

"Exquisite." He says, with a nod to the prince.

"Frankly, none of us are quite sure. We all got a metter from our respective sire's, telling us to go here and meet someone. Unfortunately, we have not yet met him. Though we are meeting him in a few hours, we thought it would be polite to introduce ourselfs to you my lord."

"I am Lucien Lupei, childer of Vovoid Sandor, of the bihor mountains."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 11:14:49 pm
"Oh? That sounds familiar. I believe another of your group has come here for that very purpose - arrived here some few months ago.

Vlad, go get Daniel Cebanu, tell him the rest of his group has arrived."

A male servant that had stopped and waited behind the prince leaves the room.

The Prince pauses to take a sip from one of the goblets.

"How long will you all be staying within the city then?"

Daniel Cebanu, monster
Domain of Vencel Rikard,
Prince of Buda-Pest


Daniel hears the tell-tale sign of an approaching servant.

Ever since arriving at Buda-Pest he has spent most of his time in the castle, not really having much to do in the large city. He chose to spend his time in the courtyard, where he is now currently resting his wings on an impressive oak.

Spreading them, he flies above and around the servant, unseen, settling himself briefly behind the ghoul.

The sounds of cracking bones and moving flesh turn the servant around, and a brief look of horror is replaced by calm respect once the vampire's form is presented.

His brothers are off sleeping or gambling or studying or whatever it is they do when he leaves them alone - he has not needed their services for the past few days.

"Good evening master Daniel. The prince requests your presence, it seems your companions have arrived."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 01, 2015, 11:16:35 pm
"We know not, unfortunately." Anton replies to the prince, taking a drink from his goblet. "We have not been told much about our purpose, as of yet."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 01, 2015, 11:19:55 pm
"That sounds nice." Daniel calmly says as he stares at the stars above the courtyard. He remains quiet for a moment and then answers, "Let's go then. Lead on, good man."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 11:23:12 pm
"Very well master Daniel. Should we retrieve your brothers now or at a later date?".
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 01, 2015, 11:24:39 pm
Lucien takes another zip of the goblet.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 01, 2015, 11:28:54 pm
"Very well master Daniel. Should we retrieve your brothers now or at a later date?".

Daniel turns to the servant and smiles at him. For a moment, he contemplates what would happen if he changed him with Vicissitude... This funny little thought take place as he replies, "I appreciate you concern, sir. However, I believe that I can handle myself."

Then, Daniel asks, "Do you have a name, sir?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 11:29:54 pm
The old man sighs.

"Yes master Daniel, my name is Vlad."

Daniel gets the feeling he has been told this particular servant's name before.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 01, 2015, 11:32:47 pm
Daniel adopts a genuinely pitiable expression and responds with. "Thank you. I apologize if you've had to repeat yourself too many times before."

Returning to his originally happy face, he says, "Let's get to work."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 01, 2015, 11:33:18 pm
Kiril drinks without saying anything for now. If his goblet is empty, he'll refill it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 11:45:52 pm
Cotterie

"We know not, unfortunately." Anton replies to the prince, taking a drink from his goblet. "We have not been told much about our purpose, as of yet."

"Ah, what a shame. I do hope to enjoy your presence for longer - perhaps you could even share with me the details of your visit here once you are entirely aware of them", says the prince.

"Vassily tells me you had a rather exciting encounter on the way here?"

Before anyone has the chance to answer, there is an interruption - a gruff, animalistically handsome man walks into the room, led forward by Vlad.

"Ah, Daniel, good of you to come."

Daniel

The servant leads Daniel through the castle corridors to the dining room. There, the prince is seated - Vassily Taltos, his diplomatic advisor is at his right-hand side. At the table are many people, some obviously vampiric in nature, but regardless Daniel would recognize them by the goblets at their sides.

Two are Nosferatu - horribly ugly creatures the likes of which even a master fleshcrafter's creations would find difficult to rival.

Another is an extremely attractive, and very womanly looking man. Or is it manly looking woman?. Daniel is confused as to the sex of the delicate-featured person, at whose side sits an impressively handsome man wearing chainmail and carrying a greatsword.

Another undoubtedly inhuman creature sits on the left side of the table, a dark man in chainmail whose very presence inspires evil. Daniel feels as if dark things gather around the man, only just barely kept in check.

There is also a tall, white haired man who wears a prosthetic arm made of knight's armour.

Another is a dark-haired man at whose side is a beautiful woman and a man who appears to be engaging in idle conversation with some other ghouls.

Lastly is a fine-featured man with a rough-looking armoured servant and another, frail-looking man with piercing eyes.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 01, 2015, 11:53:47 pm
Daniel looks at the Prince with question mark eyes and then turns his head towards the rest of the coterie with a cheery smile.

Without sitting down, he asks the room, "Hello, everyone. Are you all having an exceptional night?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 01, 2015, 11:55:36 pm
The Prince quickly clarifies - "These illustrious guests of mine appear to be here for the same reason as you, I thought you would like to introduce yourself to them, and they to you."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 01, 2015, 11:59:56 pm
Anton nods to the prince.
"We shall see." He replies, noncommittally. "And yes, a strange kindred was following us."
The Prince quickly clarifies - "These illustrious guests of mine appear to be here for the same reason as you, I thought you would like to introduce yourself to them, and they to you."
He then looks to Daniel.
"I am Anton Petrov Veranin, childer of Basillio the Elder, prince of Sofia." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 12:04:46 am
"In that case, I'll keep this short in order to save everyone's time." Daniel approaches the table in a comfortable stride and stops at a chair without sitting.

"Just so that you're all aware, I am a gangrel; but I'm sure that won't hinder our relationship. I move with my ghouls but I can assure you that they won't slow any of you down."

Then, Daniel looks to Lucien and says, "I love what you've done with yourself. It works!" He flashes a grin that shows off his teeth to show he means it and then turns to the Prince. "May I sit, sir?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 02, 2015, 12:09:19 am
The prince nods his aquiescence.

"Of course Daniel."

To the ashen knight he replies - "Yes, that would be Roland, he serves in my court I assure you. What business you have with him is your own, and I trust you will keep it contained and acceptable. I trust I will not have to remind you all of the fifth tradition.

However, I was referring to the encounter you had with "Havnor", yes?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 12:10:19 am
"I think the prince was refering to the angry mob pagan mob shouting prophecy nonsense." Lucien says to Anton

Then he refills his goblet.

"In that case, I'll begin to save everyone's time." Daniel approaches the table in a comfortable stride and stops at a chair without sitting.

"Just so that you're all aware, I am a gangrel; but I'm sure that won't hinder our relationship. I move with my ghouls but I can assure you that they won't slow any of you down."

Then, Daniel looks to Lucien and says, "I love what you've done with yourself. It works!" He flashes a grin that shows off his teeth to show he means it and then turns to the Prince. "May I sit, sir?"

"Thank you very much." Lucien replies with a smile.

"If you dont mind me asking, do you know Viccistude yourself, or did you find a tzimisce to do it for you?" He asked with a friendly tone, sincerely curious to the other man.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 12:16:36 am
Daniel respectfully thanks the Prince and pulls up a chair next to Lucien.

"One way or another, I faced a Tzimisce in my past. He owed me a boon and let me consume a portion of his blood so that I may begin my learning. We're no longer in touch." He chuckles after he says this and then whispers to Lucien very quietly, "... I'm sorry for asking but you are a man, correct?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 02, 2015, 12:17:47 am
The prince nods his aquiescence.

"Of course Daniel."

To the ashen knight he replies - "Yes, that would be Roland, he serves in my court I assure you. What business you have with him is your own, and I trust you will keep it contained and acceptable. I trust I will not have to remind you all of the fifth tradition.

However, I was referring to the encounter you had with "Havnor", yes?"
"Of course, Prince Rickard." Anton states, nodding. "The altercation shall, hopefully, be settled peacefully."

"Ah, the pagans and their silly 'god'. A tiny smudge upon your beautiful city, Prince. If there is any chance, I would assist in cleansing it of their filth. Pagans must be removed."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 02, 2015, 12:20:50 am
"No need for that, I believe it to be a Tremere Chantry that has installed itself within Buda-Pest. The cult is no doubt composed of their servitors, I will deal with them all in my own time. I thank you for the offer however, Anton of Sofia."

The prince takes another sip from his goblet.

"If it is not too rude of me to enquire, what was the cause of your conflict with Roland?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 02, 2015, 12:31:54 am
Anton nods.
"There is no need for thanks. I have no doubt you will easily remove them." He states, and fills his goblet and drinks again. He thirsts for mortal blood.

"As for our conflict, Roland wished a slave that was acquired by my brother." Anton explains. "My brother did not agree to his terms."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 12:34:35 am
Daniel respectfully thanks the Prince and pulls up a chair next to Lucien.

"One way or another, I faced a Tzimisce in my past. He owed me a boon and let me consume a portion of his blood so that I may begin my learning. We're no longer in touch." He chuckles after he says this and then whispers to Lucien very quietly, "... I'm sorry for asking but you are a man, correct?"
Lucien appeared to be.. pleased by Daniels question. "Yes." he chuckled slighrly in response. "I was pondering what beaty truly was one evening, and this is what i came up with. Not overly feminim, nor ocerly masculine. Just something in between."

"Oh, but where are my manners, my name is Lucien Lupei."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 02, 2015, 01:19:21 am
Heldric quietly sips on his blood while he follows the conversation
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 02, 2015, 07:21:51 am
Steeple introduces himself first the Prince, then to Daniel - "Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth," he says twice, raising his goblet each time as he does.

He then sits back to listen to the others, while producing a reed to sip from his goblet like a straw.

It's not long before he starts blowing red foaming bubbles in his drink, just to see if it works...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 07:26:51 am
Lucien appeared to be.. pleased by Daniels question. "Yes." he chuckled slighrly in response. "I was pondering what beaty truly was one evening, and this is what i came up with. Not overly feminim, nor ocerly masculine. Just something in between."

"Oh, but where are my manners, my name is Lucien Lupei."

Daniel graciously enjoys the manners that Lucien is showing and replies, "Pleased to meet you. As I said, I am Daniel Cebanu."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 07:31:08 am
Daniel looks to Steeple and raises the goblet that's been sitting at his portion of table and raises it with him. "Well met!" However, upon closely observing Steeple's prosthetic arm, Daniel adopts an uncomfortable expression for a moment.

In response, he turns his head towards the ever-silent nosferatu of the group and nods his head in respectful acknowledgement.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 02, 2015, 12:11:40 pm
Having been directly indicated, Heldric takes his cue and copies Steeples goblet raising.

"Heldric Haikans, it is a pleasure" (To the Prince) Then a respectful nod to Daniel. "This is Andreas, he is sadly mute but I have never found a more valuable ally." he says indicating his bonded fellow Nosferatu.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 12:42:29 pm
"Ennius, introduce yourself." Lucien says as he refills his goblet once again.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 02, 2015, 12:48:09 pm
Ennius raises his goblet to the room.

"Ennius, knight errant."

The short introduction is all the knight gives before returning to his drink.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 02, 2015, 01:28:26 pm
"Kiril Petrov Veranin, a pleasure to meet you, my lord," he nods to the Prince. 

"And a pleasure to meet you," he nods towards Daniel. 

"Carinus and Sherazhina Basarab, my retainers." 

It's a bit odd, introducing the servants, but mine certainly deserve as much recognition as anyone else's.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 01:30:29 pm
"As talkative as always." Lucien grumbles to himself.

And drinks some more.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 02, 2015, 01:33:26 pm
A servant enters the room and whispers something into Vlad's ear - who in turn leans down and whispers into Vencel's ear.

Lucien can make out a name - "Fariq"

"If you'll all excuse me, I have business to attend to. It was a pleasure making all of your aquaintances. While you are in my domain, you may all feed as needed - though I ask that you be careful when doing so."

The prince then leaves the room.

Vassily then addresses everyone - "I think the time of your meeting is fast approaching, isn't it?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 01:43:35 pm
Daniel pipes up and concurs, "Agreed. I would be exceptional if we were to get it under way as soon as possible."

He goes to the meeting place.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 02, 2015, 02:05:14 pm
"Nice Chap that Prince," Steeple says into his pocket (to Prince Maurice) as he stands, "A relative of yours?"

Steeple then looks at the assembled Kindred.

"To the Square by the stocks I do believe."

With that he heads out - taking the goblet of blood with him, still idly blowing bubbles in it with his straw.

'Dramatic Exit - nailed it!' he thinks to himself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 02, 2015, 02:13:29 pm
Kiril waits for his brother before departing for the meeting place.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 02, 2015, 02:32:55 pm
Anton nods, and stands up from the table, taking a final sip of the goblet, and then looking to Kiril and the group.

"It would be make sure we arrive on time, brother. Let us move with haste." He states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 02:39:50 pm
Lucien drinks up the remainder of his goblet before departing.

He will lead Joseph and walk woth Daniel. When they are out of rhe castle he asks "So, do you know anything about a certain Fariq?" He asks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 02, 2015, 02:47:41 pm
Heldric decides that Steeple seems both affluent and possibly the easiest to get close to so he decides to test the waters there, closer allies mean greater survival prospects after all. The group will see it as him building bridges in support of the greater goal too.

He signals Andreas and Mr. Whitey to follow then catches up to Steeple.

"Steeple, I must confess that I was at a slight loss as how to act politely in front of the prince so it was excellent to have yourself there to emulate. Do you spend much time around the Royalty?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 03:33:24 pm
Daniel grins in appreciation of Lucien's company. "I'm bad with names but I might know him. If you're alright with it, can you remind me who that is?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 02, 2015, 03:38:52 pm
Kiril will walk with Anton and his entourage to the meeting place, noting that Heldric & Steeple pair up, as well as Lucien and Daniel.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 03:39:14 pm
Lucien shrugs. "I have no clue about who he is. I hust heard the servant whisperig something about him to the prince." He replied. Then he chuckled slightly again. "I've only been here for few hours and i already have a regret. Not purchasing a smave earlier. would have made hunting later on allt easier."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 03:54:13 pm
Lucien shrugs. "I have no clue about who he is. I hust heard the servant whisperig something about him to the prince." He replied. Then he chuckled slightly again. "I've only been here for few hours and i already have a regret. Not purchasing a smave earlier. would have made hunting later on allt easier."

"Well, feeding off of the cattle is never out of the question. They sound the same healthy as they do when they're sad! It's a perfect feeding ground for as long as one doesn't make a ruckus!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 04:16:24 pm
"You may be right. But they taste pretty foul."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 04:34:43 pm
"Whatever it takes to survive."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 04:38:03 pm
"Aye. Which reminds me, i need some new servants. Kinda like a butler. And a houseneeper. Definitiviely a housekeeper."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 04:42:38 pm
Daniel quickly glances at Sylvain and that turns back to Lucien. "And become diluted like him? You should stick this servants who don't feels second thoughts. Squirrels are nice."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 04:46:53 pm
Lucien shrugs. "Squirrels cant clean up after a interrogation. ooh, i wonder if i can make a szlachta squirrel."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 02, 2015, 04:48:38 pm
"I know I can." Daniel suddenly looks up with a glint in his eye and proposes, "Tell you what, if you show me a few tricks, I'll show you a few of mine."

OOC: Thank you, Protean!
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 04:50:05 pm
"Sounds like a deal to me!" Lucien replied happily.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 02, 2015, 05:07:35 pm
Kiril will walk with Anton and his entourage to the meeting place, noting that Heldric & Steeple pair up, as well as Lucien and Daniel.

Anton turns to his brother.
"You did well by the girl. If Roland harasses you, he deals with me, brother." Anton states. "I trust you will keep her pure, yes?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 02, 2015, 05:10:06 pm
Anton turns to his brother.
"You did well by the girl. If Roland harasses you, he deals with me, brother." Anton states. "I trust you will keep her pure, yes?"

"Of course," Kiril replies, deftly changing the subject.  "It concerns me that he can conceal himself from us so easily."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 02, 2015, 05:21:35 pm
"Of course," Kiril replies, deftly changing the subject.  "It concerns me that he can conceal himself from us so easily."

"Yes, that is an issue. We will need to study the arts of Auspex to remove his veil. But I doubt he will matter much longer. I will find a way to gain the Prince's favor. And then, my brother, we  will hunt  him for the abyss."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 02, 2015, 05:27:30 pm
Kiril is surprised but pleased by his brother's unexpected show of support.  "Yes, brother, yes we will."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 02, 2015, 06:21:24 pm
"Steeple, I must confess that I was at a slight loss as how to act politely in front of the prince so it was excellent to have yourself there to emulate. Do you spend much time around the Royalty?"

"Oh yes," Steeple replies to Heldric, looking around to make sure no one else is eavesdropping.

Then whispering, he explains, "Being offensively rich draws a lot of attention from the nobles; always interested in what you are doing and more importantly, what you can do for them."

"Fortunately, I have a Noble Mentor to help me navigate through all the courtly etiquette and all that ballyhoo. Yes, Prince Maurice has been a godsend."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 02, 2015, 06:29:35 pm
"Oh yes," Steeple replies to Heldric, looking around to make sure no one else is eavesdropping.

Then whispering, he explains, "Being offensively rich draws a lot of attention from the nobles; always interested in what you are doing and more importantly, what you can do for them."

"Fortunately, I have a Noble Mentor to help me navigate through all the courtly etiquette and all that ballyhoo. Yes, Prince Maurice has been a godsend."

Heldric nods along as Steeple explains "Ah, indeed that would be a great boon to have a noble teach you, I would be greatly appreciative if you were able to introduce me if possible." He looks around "After all of this initial meeting and greeting is cleared up of course."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 02, 2015, 09:57:01 pm
"Yes, that's right."

Prince Maurice says approvingly at Steeple's indirect praise.

---

Vassily leads everyone back outside of the castle and bids them farewell.

The now larger coterie returns back to the edge of the market square, where they quickly find the stocks.

Waiting patiently there, everyone hears a voice from behind - "Pardon me."

With a start they turned to find an elder gentleman, dressed well if a little conservatively. Heldric recognized him as Hadel, mortal servant of Malachite. The man bowed deeply.

“If you will follow me, I shall escort you to where your masters are waiting.”
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 09:58:50 pm
"Intriging." Lucien replied, but immedietly followed the man.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 02, 2015, 10:16:03 pm
Heldric dips his head in return. "Excellent, we proceed." He follows the familiar servant.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 02, 2015, 10:23:54 pm
Anton nods.
"Let us go." He states to his brother, though he directs Brothee Joseph to stay here with the carriages.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 02, 2015, 10:29:43 pm
It occurs to Lucien that bringing mortal and even vampiric servants to such a select meeting (with such delicate information being shared) with his sire and future patron would be extremely rude.

He sees that Sylvian leaves behind his own servants before following Hadel.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 02, 2015, 10:31:20 pm
"Ennius, stay behind with the thingy." He said before moving on."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 02, 2015, 10:35:43 pm
Seeing Sylvain and Lucien abandon their entourages, Kiril considers whether to leave his own servants behind.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 03, 2015, 07:32:34 am
"Other than being able to experiment with forgotten creatures, it's nice to be early and know these things ahead of time!" Thinks Daniel.

He declares, "That sounds nice." Then, he follows Lord Malachite's servant.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 03, 2015, 09:05:31 am
Steeple leaves his carriage and the wagon in the faithful hands of Igor and follows the Kindred.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 03, 2015, 07:02:16 pm
The gentleman, who was carrying a torch, led them down a walkway between the old buildings and then to a smaller alley, where at the end was a small wooden door.

Hadel waited patiently at the door as the seven vampires entered what they thought would be a small room off the larger warehouse. What they found was a long, dark staircase leading deep beneath the city’s streets.

Hadel, upon securing the door, carefully made his way to the front of the Coterie, making sure not to draw his torch too close. Even with their incredible senses Kiril was the only one able to keep track of his location. First the staircase turned in on itself at least a half dozen times only for them to find themselves in a labyrinth of tunnels, carved out of the very earth that the city called a foundation. Sylvian marveled at the workmanship, noting that it must have taken a generation to build something of this magnitude.

Eventually Hadel showed them another simple wooden door. When he opened it light cascaded into the corridor, briefly blinding Anton (who had begun shifting light into darkness to more easily see).

The chamber was low ceilinged, and appeared to be some sort of tomb. Three sarcophagi stood at the far wall, one perpendicular to the door, each of the others took up one of the two far corners, all three seemed to be carved of the same rock that made up the floor.

Only the sarcophagus on the left still had its cap, the worn engraving showed a man in his later years holding what was once probably an encrusted sword, the gems though were long gone. The central sarcophagus was being used as a table. The stone lid having been replaced with a thick wooden slab. Candles were lit upon the slab and a book stood open at its center.

The Sarcophagus to the right lay open in the dark recesses.

The chamber was lit by three torches, each kept safely in a recess far from the center of the room. As the vampires entered they saw that they were not the first. Six individuals sat on heavy wooden stools.

Farthest to the right sat an absolutely gorgeous woman wearing fine silken clothing. Her blue eyes stand out on a pale and fragile face, the picture of beauteous innocence.

Sylvian immediately goes to her, entering a rather intimate embrace with his sire.

Next to the french woman sat a man whose feral disposition was only barely hidden behind a worn cloak and matted fur. Long black hair contrasted by cold blue eyes leave Daniel no doubt as to the man's identity - this is Arnulf, the ancient gangrel who turned him so many nights ago. Giving a brief, dangerous smile at his childer's appearance, Arnulf shows off razor teeth. Small tufts of fur grow out of his ears, and Daniel knows that if he checked, the man's torso would be covered in fur - all marks of the Beast that he would himself grow in time.

Kiril and Anton saw their sire, Basilio, the moment they walked into the room. Dressed in blue, silver and sable, the dark prince was hard to miss. His robes were Greek, and his beard was long and full. On his head he wore a decorative head dress. The prince studied the shadows as if they held secrets no other could dare fathom - but his attention is turned by the appearance of his two childer.

Malachite, the Rock of Constantinople and Michael's Chosen, sits next to Basilio, as if they had been having a conversation that the group had interrupted. His dead, dry skin is tightly drawn over his bones. It cracks and splits as he moves and contorts his face to look at Heldric. He lacks hair, even eyebrows, and his nose is knife-thin. Yet the scars of the Nosferatu's embrace fade in contrast to his bearing - despite a touch of rictus, he is noble and tall, thin and regal. His terrible gaze is unflinching and carries with it meaningful intensity.

Next to him is a grim and dangerous looking man, whose long and pronounced features accentuate the projected image of a regal nobleman, who would look down on all others before him. Stephan Vladivostok, Steeple Carson Olaf Trevesky the fourth's sire, was not a kind man. Or vampire, for that matter. Beneath his eyes lied the terrible madness of power and hunger, made all the greater by Malkav's curse. Steeple, were he a lesser vampire, might have felt the ghost of a shiver run down his spine as his sire acknowledged his presence, and bid his approach.

Lastly is the koldun Sandor, Vovoide of Arad. The powerful sorcerer and talented fleshcrafter waited patiently for his childe to join him. Lucien finds it almost weird to see the vovoide without the almost constant retinue of Vozhd, Schlacta and other assorted guards and creations. Tall and slim, Lucien is well aware that the koldun is deceptively - hell, monstrously powerful. His eyes glow grey with inhuman power, constant storms seem to be raging within his pupils. These are signs of greater power and magical rituals that Lucien is aware the sorcerer uses to make easier the casting of Koldunic rituals.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 03, 2015, 07:09:24 pm
Heldric moves quickly toward Malachite then takes a knee and bows his head "Sire, I did not expect to see you here yourself" He says in Greek.

Thinking of what happened when Andrea displeased him, Heldric knows that keeping his sire happy is the best route to survival.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 03, 2015, 07:18:07 pm
Anton kneels and bows to his sire, but remains silent. Anton knows the value of silence. There is no point in speaking right now.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 03, 2015, 07:25:11 pm
a real smile appears on Luciens face. He approches his sire and kneels. "My lord Sandor."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 03, 2015, 08:02:52 pm
Impressed with such a large gathering of Kindred super-powers, Steeple enters with a flourishing bow and smiles - almost giddily in anticipation of what he is about to be privy too.

Moving to stand next to his Sire, in the position most properly dictated by courtly protocol, Steeple eagerly awaits to see what happens next.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 03, 2015, 09:50:15 pm
For the first time ever, the group (Or at least those who are looking at Daniel) witnesses his everlasting smile melt into a mask of seriousness. This mask is a symbol of all the seasons that past between now and the last time he saw his sire which was when he was embraced. This seriousness is normal when a childe meets their gangrel sire for the second time; Daniel did not resent Arnulf for what he did after he heard from other gangrel that it was customary to ditch your childe after the embrace.

Daniel gives a bow of respect to the general assembly of elder vampires and then walks to his sire to stand with him as the other coterie members have done with their sires.

He gives his sire a nod of acknowledgement and then neutrally tells Arnulf, "Twenty winters."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 03, 2015, 11:08:16 pm
Kiril is ecstatic at the sight of Basilio. (of course, he does his best to conceal an unseemly display of emotion.) He quickly takes his place beside Anton, ready to serve however necessary.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 04, 2015, 05:11:26 pm
Anton and Kiril

Basilio greets both of his childer warmly.

"Anton, Kiril, it is a pleasure to see you both once more. I've owed Radu a favor for centuries now, the Prince has finally decided to call on it - both of you are to help in the task he will describe. This will make your future, my children. I have picked out your rewards myself should you succeed in this task, and they are great rewards indeed, fitting for princes." Basilio smiles at this last part, laughing at some joke only he knows of. Perhaps it would be made clear soon?

Daniel

The ancient warrior gives Daniel a good once-over - the vampire can feel his eyes running over him as the ancient evaluates his childe.

"Yes. Yes, twenty winters ago I gave you the greatest gift. You have grown into it well."

Arnulf pauses then, before continuing. His words are carefully chosen, slow and deliberate.

"I have another gift to give you now, my childe. It is nearly as great as the last one I gave you. This young Fiend, this Count Radu - he is a very skilled and powerful ally. Do not underestimate him when you meet him on your journey, he may seem affable, overly polite even. A creature of peace and cities, if you would - but in him lies a formidable Beast. You will thank me one day for these gifts I give you Daniel."

Steeple

Vladivostok does not seem pleased at Steeple's antics - though his face seems to simply be set in a permanent grim frown, so Steeple doesn't take it too personally.

"Terribly sad that man. Keeps himself so grim and angry-looking all the time to scare everyone else, can't ever let himself have some fun. Twists the soul it does. You must let the jester within yourself be free!" comments Prince Maurice.

The Malkavian speaks - "Steeple. A very good choice on your part to come here, perhaps you will prove to be greater than your foolish countenance would suggest. I expect for you to behave during your journey, you represent my interests now, any shame that falls on you will fall on me. You know, of course, how much I value image Steeple."

The message was clear - even to the mad one-armed vampire. Don't Fark up.

Heldric

The forceful Nosferatu lays a friendly hand on his childer's shoulder as he knelt.

"No need for such pleasantries Heldric. Yes, I came myself - I haven't seen you in too long, and I had business here in Transylvania. I trust everything goes well in spreading the Dream? No, don't bother, it doesn't matter. I know you have had... difficulties, but these difficulties will be overcome. You're about to get your chance Heldric, your future will be decided by what happens here today. Listen very closely to the messenger, remember what he says."

Malachite then pauses.

He then leans in, and he begins whispering into Heldric's ear so that no other (childer at least) can hear what is being said.

"You have heard that Pope Innocent has called for a fourth crusade? It bodes ill Heldric, I do not trust what is happening. You will get your reward for helping Radu here, and you will get your chance to spread the Dream, but know that I might have need of you very soon afterwards. If need be, you might even be my representative when talks are had about directing the valiant fools."

Lucien

The air seems to almost vibrate around the koldun, as if it wished to take life - or as if the power within him was so great that its presence could be physically felt.

He speaks slowly, enunciating every syllable.

"Lucien. You have served me for years, my faithful childe. When I left some few days ago, I gave you the Vovoidate for a few hours. It was wonderful, wasn't it? To hold thousands under your command, even for such a short time. To reign over a land so great that you could not see its bounds even should you climb atop the highest tower, staring across the land on the clearest day.

If you ever want to know what that was like again, listen to what this messenger has to say. My clanmate Radu has a fantastical proposition for you, and we have all agreed on your rewards."

---

As everyone was in the room a man, whom no one had noticed previously, stepped from the shadows beyond the torchlight.

This Cainite may wear civilized clothing, but he is clearly a rustic. His long legs shift restlessly as though he’d rather be moving than sitting, and his dark hair hangs in disarray down his back. At first it appears as though his eyes reflect the flame of the torches; then it becomes clear that his eyes are naturally red-stained. He bears the feral look of a Gangrel, not unlike the currently present Arnulf.

“Please enjoy yourselves. I shall tell you of my request while you dine,” says the host while raising an eyebrow.

The vampire gestures to the three stone sarcophagi. Should they investigate, the coterie find that three young girls, servants by their clothes, wait within the large stone hollow. They seem to be under compulsion to remain calm. He motions for the vampires to help them out of the sarcophagus, then commands the children to kneel before them all.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 04, 2015, 05:40:31 pm
Heldric responds quickly and just as quietly as his Sire just did.

"It is indeed excellent to see you again and despite my difficulties so far I have increased my abilities to understand many of the local languages which I hope will be beneficial here. I will listen attentively and remember all, the dream shall be spread, as will your wishes on the matters at hand." Heldric states, affirming his desire to serve his Sire's plans.

He turns to look at the girls brought fourth by Radu and speaks loud enough for the company to hear "It is best if I feed last, I would not wish this company to be... affected." Those present should be knowledgeable enough to understand that he is referring to his curse even if they do not know exactly what it is.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 04, 2015, 06:12:59 pm
"You are the very epitome of power sire!" Steeple relies to Vladivostok.

Then heading over to the children, Steeple remarks to Prince Maurice in a whisper, "His confidence in me is almost overwhelming!"

Looking at the girls, Steeple doesn't feel hunger. For him, this would be his third meal. He wonders how rude it would be construed not to feed.

"Aw, aren't they precious?" he asks, running his hand through their hair.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 04, 2015, 06:19:24 pm
Prince Maurice answers Steeple's mental question.

"It would be of no issue, as long as you are polite in your refusal."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 04, 2015, 06:29:02 pm
"Yes," Steeple mumbles to himself.

Then bowing to Count Radu, Steeple asks, "I am practically bloated already from Prince Rikard's generous hospitality. And please, pardon my forwardness - but... Presuming there is anything left after my fellows. May I have one to save for later?"

"They all look so delectable!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 04, 2015, 06:41:02 pm
"I appreciate the advice, sire. One day, I'll be sure to return the favor; trust me, I won't forget." Daniel gives his sire a reassuring smile and remembers to keep his wise words in his mind until further notice.

There are a lot of powers, even beyond this room, and Radu is one of them... Always have a Plan B around people who are stronger than you when you have to deal with them. This is what Daniel interpreted as Arnulf's message. As said before, he'll be sure to keep this in mind.

After responding to Arnulf, Daniel respectfully kneels while looking up to his host and nicely says, "I had the opportunity to feed earlier this very night. I would like to give the portion you graciously intended for myself to my new friends. Sir."

OOC: Never forget the "Sir"!
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 04, 2015, 07:17:15 pm
"It was a few hours lf great satisfaction. But i crave not for land. I care not to look out to the horizon and know that all the land is mine." he replied charismaticly.

"What i care for, is the arts. The arts that came with your gift. The greatest gift one can bestow upon another." He smiled deviously. "But, i need power to practice our fine arts. To master them. I will do whatever you may ask of me sire."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 04, 2015, 07:22:41 pm
Anton nods silently to his sire, and then bows to the rustic man upon his appearance.

"I thank you, Prince." Anton states, before commencing to feed, making sure to leave the girl with blood left in her. She should not be killed before confession.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 04, 2015, 09:09:07 pm
Kiril follows his brother; thanking their host then feeding on a child, being sure to leave it alive.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 04, 2015, 09:50:37 pm
Their host accepts Heldric, Daniel and Steeple's gracious refusals.

The host tells Steeple - "The girls are not mine to give."

Anton and Kiril both feed off of two of the girls - there is one left for Lucien, should he want it - and really it would be rude to not say anything regarding the matter.

As the two Lasombra feed the vampire continues, now introducing himself.

“I am Tiberiu, Count Radu Bistri's messenger. The Count has asked that you join me here so as to offer you a great opportunity.Your sires have assured the Count you will be happy to assist him and thereby secure for yourselves a comfortable future. Radu wish for you to travel to the eastern border of Hungary, to the region known as Transylvania. High in the Carpathian Mountains beyond the city of Bistritz lies a natural mountain gateway called the Tihuta Pass. As the main access to Transylvania from the East, it holds strategic importance. The Count's request to you is this: Travel to the Tihuta Pass and erect a fortress there to guard this important trade route.

The reason the Count desires this fortress' construction is rather simple. He wishes to secure his territory, fortify the pass and have a buffer between his city of Bistritz and any force seeking to enter Transylvania. His fellow princes have agreed that a fortress in the pass would be of great use. As it is a part of his holdings, the Count would also like to use the keep to collect tolls from travelling merchants for using the pass. He would, of course, allow you a certain percentage of the profits thus garnered."

Tiberiu pauses briefly, giving the Cainites just enough time to absorb what they have just been told before continuing.

“The Count is willing to advance you certain sums of money to cover the cost of hiring guards and skilled workmen, but his allies (with a quick gesture toward the sires) assure me that you have enough resourcefulness to complete the work yourselves. Since you will be taking charge of the lands and nearby villages, you may tax the peasantry and use their labor in your building as well. Luckily, the foundation is already there, as an old wooden tower once stood on the spot. You should be able to utilize the stone foundation and build upward from there. You are expected to have the first floor, at least, completed by Winter."

“There is one other small favor you can do for the Count, a matter of little import to anyone but Radu. It has been rumoured that among the ruins of the tower, there might be some old writings – documents or tablets in forgotten languages. Should you locate them, Radu desires them for his collection.

Frivolous, he know, but such pastimes often alleviate the occasional tedium of our existence. Please advise him if you find these writings and he shall send me to collect them from you. Should you hear of other such writings and learn who has them, the Count would also offer his gratitude for that information as well."

Then Tiberiu pauses again. He waits a bit longer this time, as if mulling over what he was about to say. It seems as if it's something big - he has been quite liberal in handing out information so far.

“Succeed in these tasks, and the Count and your sires shall be most pleased to offer you as candidates to rule several fiefdoms in Transylvania. Four of the seven cities known as the Siebenburgen currently lack princes. Young Cainites who prove their loyalty, intelligence and ability to rule shall find that the Count and company are not miserly in their rewards to you.”

The room falls silent. Princedoms - the chance to finally have their own domains with Radu and their sires supporting their rule - no greater offer could have been made.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 04, 2015, 09:59:28 pm
A pleasing smile appeared on Luciens lips.

"And should we come across any.. Adverseries, are we free to deal with them as we see fit?" He asked, before approaching the last woman. If its a child, he'd suck her dry.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 04, 2015, 10:02:09 pm
"If any wish to halt the Count's agents then you shall fight back, without killing them and inform him. He shall do then what he considers necessary."

It occurs to Lucien that killing one of the vessels given to them to drink would make him seem reckless, lacking in self-control and hot-headed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 04, 2015, 10:05:18 pm
Anton bows, his dispassionate face revealing nothing, though of course, the reward is great. A chance to rule a fiefdom, to be allowed free reign on the punishment of sinners... The chance to truly act on his purpose with no one to hold him back... It is the ultimate reward.

"It shall be done. We shall not fail our sires." Anton replies, after finishing to feed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 04, 2015, 10:07:58 pm
Alive doesnt neccessarily mean in good condition.
he thought to himself. If it is a child he will apparently not kill het but suck out enough blood to nearly incapacitate her.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 04, 2015, 10:23:28 pm
Daniel's eyes light up with an enthusiastic light. Only the gangrel in the room can really tell whether the gleam is supernatural or not; either way, it's obvious that Daniel is absolutely loving these instructions.

After chuckling to himself for a moment as he half-thinks of all the possibilities, he straightens himself up and professionally asks Tiberiu, "Did Count Radu have any suggestions as to what he would enjoy having as part of the end result? Devil's in the fine print, after all. I'd hate to miss something that he would particularly find... prodigious."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 04, 2015, 10:35:11 pm
"You may ask this of the Count personally - the way to Tihuta Pass requires that you pass by Bistritz, where he has invited all of you to visit before making your way to your final destination."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 04, 2015, 10:47:55 pm
"That will be an interesting meeting. Do you have an words of advice before we meet the count other than to treat him like a prince?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 04, 2015, 11:23:21 pm
"Be polite."

Tiberiu then looks at the childer gathered, his beast-like red eyes moving over everyone in turn.

"So it is agreed? You shall do this task that the Count has asked of you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 04, 2015, 11:29:38 pm
"Of course," Kiril's reply is instantaneous.  "If that is what my sire wishes, I am pleased to comply."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 04, 2015, 11:30:45 pm
I almost said in a heartbeat... That was stupid Daniel...

"Yessir."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 04, 2015, 11:33:25 pm
If Lucien is done with the girl.

"Yes"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 04, 2015, 11:34:30 pm
"There is no question." Anton replies.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 04, 2015, 11:58:44 pm
"We are offered a chance to aid a prince and build somthing lasting for our kind, there can be no questioning my willingness to aid in this." Heldric replies with his best attempt at a non-creepy smile
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 05, 2015, 08:56:44 am
"Ooh, writings!" Steeple says with excitement as the opportunity is presented.

'Hmm... such power to gain...' Steeple thinks to himself, 'I hope it doesn't make me all stodgy and frowny-face like my own Sire...'

"I accept." Steeple says simply, once the host finishes talking.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 05, 2015, 04:23:31 pm
Tiberu nods, a small smile playing across his lips.

"Wonderful. Your sires have agreed to grant you each the servants sent to bring you here, they will be your personal ghouls from now on. Outside you will have a further three enclosed wagons that will host a contingent of six ghoul guardsmen and enough Librum to pay the initial costs of hiring stone masons and carpenters.

"Now, if you will excuse me, it was a long journey here from Bistritz, and I have further missives to deliver."

The gangrel departs, and everyone is left alone with their masters.

Everyone is generally given the same generic warning from their sires do not fail, for how can you ever be expected to rule a fiefdom if you cannot erect even a single tower?

Arnulf, however, tells Daniel a little something extra - "Be careful around Klausenburg."

Nothing else, no more details - and no amount of prying will get the elder gangrel to say anything else.

A discreet knock at the door announces the return of Hadel. He leads the coterie back through the tunnels and up the stairs to the alley. He then gives them a key to a house off the western edge of the market square and tells them they may stay in the cellar of that house for two nights. After that time, they are expected to be on the way to their task. They may spend the rest of the night planning and giving orders to their new servants and rest in the rooms the next day. Though they have acquired servants, guards and riches to help them in their endeavor, they all realize that those assigned to them are under Blood Oath to (and therefore loyal to) their sires.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 05, 2015, 04:37:41 pm
"Well, we dont have all year. Lets get a move on." Lucien says, however he walks up to his sire once again. "Untill we meet again Sire. I shall not fail you." Though there was a sad look in his eyes, he did not wish to depart from his beloved sire.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 05, 2015, 04:41:02 pm
Heldric nods to the others "I shall greatly enjoy working with you on this task but I do not intend to bring shame on my Sire's name so I plan to be moving on this quickly and I will do everything within my power to ensure that it not only succeeds, but brings a lasting glory to our kind. I plan to begin planning tonight and leave as soon as preparations are complete." He nods to his driving girl "Takes us to the house, we have much planning to do."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 05, 2015, 06:02:33 pm
"This is interesting... Seven months to make one tower." Daniel looks away from his thoughts and to the group before him. He smiles as says, "Let's move to the Room of Plans to get this operation in motion. Lead on."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 05, 2015, 06:53:24 pm
"Eww, gross." Steeple remarks with distain, thinking that the fat rude driver is now supposed to be working for him.

Taking the brass key, he motions to the rest - "Come chaps, we have a castle to plan haha!"

"I don't suppose any of you is an architect?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 05, 2015, 06:53:38 pm
Anton nods.
"We will have to work with haste. I suggest that everyone takes a source of nourishment for the trek. The prince has given us reign to feed, taking a bum from the town would certainly be proper." Anton states.

"I will see you all in the home." He says, as he reaches his carriage and broter Joseph and Fantoma.

"We will need to find a sinner, brother." Anton says to the monk.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 06, 2015, 04:18:27 pm
Kiril tries to find somewhere with a little privacy.  (If necessary, he'll use shroud of night as a wall.)

He informs Carinus and Sherazhina of their allotted task.  "Have either of you heard of Tihuta Pass?"

Kiril also writes a letter to Alec, informing him that he will be away for at least seven months, perhaps more.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 04:39:10 pm
Steeple

"Eww, gross." Steeple remarks with distain, thinking that the fat rude driver is now supposed to be working for him.

Taking the brass key, he motions to the rest - "Come chaps, we have a castle to plan haha!"

"I don't suppose any of you is an architect?"

Sylvian speaks up - "I may have some experience in architecture - I could certainly plan a rather wondrous fortress for the Count."

Anton

Anton nods.
"We will have to work with haste. I suggest that everyone takes a source of nourishment for the trek. The prince has given us reign to feed, taking a bum from the town would certainly be proper." Anton states.

"I will see you all in the home." He says, as he reaches his carriage and brother Joseph and Fantoma.

"We will need to find a sinner, brother." Anton says to the monk.

"Yes brother Anton. Where shall we search?" the monk asks.

Kiril

Kiril tries to find somewhere with a little privacy.  (If necessary, he'll use shroud of night as a wall.)

He informs Carinus and Sherazhina of their allotted task.  "Have either of you heard of Tihuta Pass?"

Kiril also writes a letter to Alec, informing him that he will be away for at least seven months, perhaps more.

Carinus replies - "I believe I may have heard of it, it is a strategically important pass to the east that leads into our Transylvania."

Sherazhina then replies - "Yes, in the pass are the ruins of an ancestral family keep. It was mostly made of wood and the tower burned down, only the foundations and cellar were left intact. I visited there once with my brother, Dragomir."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 06, 2015, 04:40:05 pm
Kiril

Carinus replies - "I believe I may have heard of it, it is a strategically important pass to the east that leads into our Transylvania."

Sherazhina then replies - "Yes, in the pass are the ruins of an ancestral family keep. It was mostly made of wood and the tower burned down, only the foundations and cellar were left intact. I visited there once with my brother, Dragomir."

"Was it in ruins when you visited it?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 04:43:28 pm
She shakes her head.

"No, the keep was intact then."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 06, 2015, 04:46:47 pm
Quote
"Yes brother Anton. Where shall we search?" the monk asks.

"One of the slavers would be an optimum choice. No one will miss him when he is gone, and he will most certainly be filled with sin." Anton states.

"We will have to find where the men stay at night, however."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 04:49:01 pm
"In houses of sin no doubt, brother. We passed many taverns on the way here", the monk says.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 06, 2015, 04:52:50 pm
"In houses of sin no doubt, brother. We passed many taverns on the way here", the monk says.

Anton nods.
"We have been given permission by the prince to feed, but not to make a holy reckoning. We must be subtle. We will need to abduct the sinners. Find me where they left the slaves." Anton states, knowing that the slavers most likely sleep near where their merchandise lies.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 06, 2015, 04:58:58 pm
Heldric heads right to the house they have been assigned an waits for others arrivals to plan out their next move, he questions his driver on the way.

"So my dear, you have been assigned to aid me in my task, have you ever been to the region around the Tihuta pass?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 05:02:29 pm
Heldric

The girl nods.

"I went through it to get to you, master Heldric."

Anton

"Of course brother. Will you be coming with me?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 06, 2015, 05:08:34 pm
"Ah excellent, I will be relying on your knowledge of the region then. I presume you will be able to tell us about the nearest large city to the pass where we can use our funds to hire workers of repute and the best villages close by for recruiting the less skilled labor? Also what state was the basement and foundation in when you passed through, un-touched by the fire, crumbling, home to a den of thieves?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 05:14:16 pm
"I'm not familiar with the region, lord Heldric. I was too busy hurrying to you - I did pass by Bistritz and Klausenburg on the way here though. There were some small villages I think you could hire some workers from.

I think I passed by some crumbling old ruins, I can't be sure. It's been several months since I passed by."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 06, 2015, 05:18:23 pm
She shakes her head.

"No, the keep was intact then."

hmm
He describes the documents the princes servant inquired about.
"Do you recall anything like that from your visit?
What happened to the keep, why did it burn down?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 05:19:53 pm
Heldric

The girl then adds, after looking over the group - "You might all be able to make it there in three weeks, if you all move as quickly as possible - but that's assuming no delays, and I think the architect might slow you down. Besides, the snow will still be blocking the mountain passes you need to go through for at least three weeks, if not more, so moving that fast or faster would be a waste."

Kiril

"There was a library in the basement, it might have been untouched by the fires, though I don't think many of the books will be in good condition by now.

Accidental fire."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 06, 2015, 05:23:14 pm
Heldric

The girl then adds, after looking over the group - "You might all be able to make it there in three weeks, if you all move as quickly as possible - but that's assuming no delays, and I think the architect might slow you down. Besides, the snow will still be blocking the mountain passes you need to go through for at least three weeks, if not more, so moving that fast or faster would be a waste."

Heldric thinks for a moment. "This is acceptable, let us say we need a months travel time then. We can try and hire a proper architect here if none in our party has experience and if we cannot find one here we could send messengers out ahead to have one meet us from the other side of the pass in a months time. Let us wait for all to be gathered and we can discuss it then."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 06, 2015, 06:13:32 pm
"I love it when everything starts to come together."

As Daniel watches everyone formulate a plan, he decides to quickly go fetch his brothers from bar in which he was told that they'd be in. He'll hopefully move quickly enough to get them before everyone is gone.

Before he leaves, he passes Lucien and swiftly tells him, "I'm going to fetch my ghouls. I'll be back shortly."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 06, 2015, 06:23:28 pm
"Well, we certainly can't rebuild our fortress with wood," Steeple says to whoever is listening, "It must be a monument of pure stone - a 'masterpiece' if you will!"

"And I'm sure with the resources the Count is providing and those of my own, we can make a truly fearsome citadel."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 06, 2015, 06:35:59 pm
"Well, we certainly can't rebuild our fortress with wood," Steeple says to whoever is listening, "It must be a monument of pure stone - a 'masterpiece' if you will!"

"And I'm sure with the resources the Count is providing and those of my own, we can make a truly fearsome citadel."

Heldric Nods "We will want a stone construction, however the pass can be controlled fully and quickly with a simple wooden palisade wall and gates. This would make it easier for our ghoul guards to watch the construction area. We can then concentrate on teh stone construction in relative safety, upgrading the walls after the keep is complete.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 06:36:54 pm
Steeple

"Well, we certainly can't rebuild our fortress with wood," Steeple says to whoever is listening, "It must be a monument of pure stone - a 'masterpiece' if you will!"

"And I'm sure with the resources the Count is providing and those of my own, we can make a truly fearsome citadel."

Sylvian comments on this.

"It will be a work of art as much as a bastion of defence. As beautiful as it shall be practical - it might include some wood but stone will feature more than anything."

"I love it when everything starts to come together."

As Daniel watches everyone formulate a plan, he decides to quickly go fetch his brothers from bar in which he was told that they'd be in. He'll hopefully move quickly enough to get them before everyone is gone.

Before he leaves, he passes Lucien and swiftly tells him, "I'm going to fetch my ghouls. I'll be back shortly."

Leaving the rest of the group, the Gangrel goes to The House of the Red Hedgehog - where his brothers and the servant who had been sent to bring him to Buda-Pest were out enjoying themselves on the Prince's hospitality.

Arriving at the bustling building, gangrel searches the crowd of well-dressed noblemen and rich merchants to find his shabbily dressed brothers and the wild-looking Mordecai. Vincent and Mordecai are both loudly laughing at something or another that Wilhelm has just said, smashing their tankards against their table when Wilhelm looks up to see Daniel. He says something quietly and the two both clamor down, looking expectantly at their master.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 06, 2015, 06:59:32 pm
Lucien tries to remember what he knows about the mountains. Seeing as it is home area..
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 06, 2015, 08:05:12 pm
Steeple

Sylvian comments on this.

"It will be a work of art as much as a bastion of defence. As beautiful as it shall be practical - it might include some wood but stone will feature more than anything."

Leaving the rest of the group, the Gangrel goes to The House of the Red Hedgehog - where his brothers and the servant who had been sent to bring him to Buda-Pest were out enjoying themselves on the Prince's hospitality.

Arriving at the bustling building, gangrel searches the crowd of well-dressed noblemen and rich merchants to find his shabbily dressed brothers and the wild-looking Mordecai. Vincent and Mordecai are both loudly laughing at something or another that Wilhelm has just said, smashing their tankards against their table when Wilhelm looks up to see Daniel. He says something quietly and the two both clamor down, looking expectantly at their master.

Daniel strides towards Wilhelm and jokingly asks, "You haven't been giving Vince a rough time have you?" (Hopefully!) Everyone shares a laugh at this.

He seriously informs them, "You've had your time to rest up from our last trip, boys. It's time to move."

Then, he resumes his joking tone and concludes, "Put down your tankards and break whoever's heart you need because it's time to go!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 08:12:11 pm
The various servants follow their master back to the house with the other kindred.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 06, 2015, 08:19:12 pm
Hoping to whatever deity there may be in the world that one of the books Daniel gave to Wilhelm as a child might help, Daniel asks Wilhelm, "What do you know about architecture, Will?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 06, 2015, 08:40:26 pm
The scrawny ghoul answers back - "almost nothing sir, I've never studied it. More of an art than something you learn sir."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 06, 2015, 09:15:50 pm
Once everyone has gathered again Heldric continues and addresses everyone.

"So we all know where we are headed and what we need to do. Our main considerations would be an architect, skilled workers and unskilled labor. Some of the heavy lifting of certain objects we can do ourselves if we so wish to expedite the initial phase of construction but for the rest we need to hire and co-erase the workers to our cause. We can most likely hire the workers through the towns closer to our goal and Steeple is providing the architect I gather?" He indicates to Steeple that this is a question. "Is there any other business we have here before we set out?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 06, 2015, 09:48:28 pm
"One last thing. If we get a hold of unskilled labor and pay them the first time, Lucien and I can ghoul them which can make them much more efficient workers than before; this being in consideration of our abilities." Offers Daniel while making a malicious smile.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 06, 2015, 10:10:29 pm
Heldric mearly nods, he had thought about ghouling them but they would mostly be dead within a month which would hinder more than help efforts, spawning an army of childer is also out of the question. "I might just have Andres surprise them with the strength of the Nosferatu too. I have things to learn from this Gangrel though to aid in my future survival chances so I shall continue being nice."

"That may be effective, we must simply be careful not to arouse suspicion in the surrounding towns and villages."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 06, 2015, 10:18:56 pm
Heldric mearly nods, he had thought about ghouling them but they would mostly be dead within a month which would hinder more than help efforts, spawning an army of childer is also out of the question. "I might just have Andres surprise them with the strength of the Nosferatu too. I have things to learn from this gangrel though to aid in my future survival chances so I shall continue being nice."

"That may be effective, we must simply be careful not to arouse suspicion in the surrounding towns and villages."

"Pardon my eagerness, but we can just tell families to relocate into our new tower. Moving an entire family means more workers! This will also give a reason to the neighbors of those whom we take into our service." Daniel reveals these thoughts with an insidious grin on his face.

Then, his face shades back into reason. "Clearly, this won't serve as a true housing situation for these workers... But with a little bit of persuasion and resource; it could work. Imagine completing this project months before the deadline! As well as a pre-inserted set of soldiers for the Prince's little roadblock."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 07, 2015, 06:39:23 am
"Oh, it will be permanent for the workers though" Steeple says, "They and their families."

"We are not just building a tower to guard a pass. A support village is also necessary to go along with it and (as it will be on an important trade route that we will control), it will quickly grow into something much more than just a toll pass."

"And yes, I'll hire the architects; one for the fortress and one for the 'Village of Steepleton'." ;D
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 07, 2015, 01:03:13 pm
"You are not naming a village steepleton. It should have a proper transylvanian name. " Lucien said to Steeple.

"Now, if you wish to hire a architecht thats fine."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 07, 2015, 01:17:08 pm
"Pshaw," Steeple says dismissively with a wave of his hand, "you all can name the castle whatever you like, but Steepleton is a fine Romanian name for a village."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 07, 2015, 01:52:51 pm
"It is not." Lucien replied. "Did i mention i hail from Transylvania? I know a little bit more than you of the area and i will not have you name it after yourself."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 07, 2015, 04:28:39 pm
"You will not tell me what to name (or not name) my village!" Steeple says, glaring at Lucian.

"My architects, my resources, my village!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 07, 2015, 05:08:34 pm
"This is a team effort. we need to work togheter." Lucien calmly replies.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 07, 2015, 06:10:58 pm
"On the fortress," Steeple points out. "The Count wants a fortress, he get's a fortress."

"I get Steepleton."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 07, 2015, 06:26:54 pm
"You're saying you want to make a village, on someone else's land, claim it for yourself?" He smirked at him.

"You do that."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 07, 2015, 06:27:00 pm

Anton

"Of course brother. Will you be coming with me?"
"Find them, and report back to me. I bring with me the abyss, and while those who revel in sin deserve to experience it, it would be best to kidnap the men with little to no witnesses." Anton replies.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 07, 2015, 06:32:17 pm
"You do that."

"Watch and learn," Steeple replies, "It's called history in the making."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 07, 2015, 07:24:07 pm
"Watch and learn," Steeple replies, "It's called history in the making."

"Aww! I wanted them to kill each other!" Thinks Daniel.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 07, 2015, 07:26:01 pm
Heldric looks at the others "Well despite a few details it seems we are decided. I shall depart to hit with a small amount of the funds in order to hire workers to begin preparing the land in advance of our skill labour's arrival. I understand from the reports that we must clear the ruins before we rebuild. I should arrive as soon as the snows let me pass and can begin right away."

He stands and nods to each of the others in turn "It will be a pleasure."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 07, 2015, 08:13:47 pm
During the next two nights, Anton and his new servant brother Joseph capture and force a drunkard from a nearby tavern into confession. They bring the man with them later to serve out the rest of his penance as a source of blood on the long trip.

Heldric initially considers going alone - but Maria counseled him against it, as the roads could be very dangerous, there was much more safety in groups. Andreas agreed heartily.

Vassily agrees to send Steeple's request for resources over to Prague, sending it over on the next merchant caravan heading there.

The group then gathers together and departs for the Tihuta Pass, starting their journey.

---

End Prologue
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 07, 2015, 08:22:38 pm
April 28, 1198, 7:35pm, Dusk
An hour southwest of Klausenberg


Fourteen days had passed since the coterie had left the walls of Buda – Pest; it had begun to rain on day nine and showed no signs of letting up. While they had been able to rest in various villages along the way, they found that they were unwelcome in a few as well.

Aside from a few difficulties finding sufficient vessels from which to feed (leaving them a little hungry and edgy, with no blood to waste frivolously), most of the journey is tedious and uncomfortable, but hardly threatening. Once they cross into Transylvania, the local peasants act uniformly abject and terrified of the “great lords who travel the winds of the night.” While some Hungarian nobles and Saxon shopkeepers may be fooled by the coterie, it is clear that the peasants know exactly what they are dealing with and avoid them if at all possible. Aside from small villages scattered throughout the Carpathian Plain, this fertile farmland holds few towns. Klausenburg, also called Cluj or Napoca by the natives, is the only large city on their way to Bistritz.

As the group rose they were met by Odi, who was leading the wagon train. He explained that they had been cast far south of their initial route but had finally made it to Klausenberg, which they should be only an hour’s ride from. He informed them that the mortals wished to rest within the gates - and indeed, they must be rather exhausted from the constant pace the coterie had been keeping them on.

Most know that Klausenburg, also called Cluj or  Napoca by the natives, is the only large city on their way to Bistritz, as well as that it has no current prince - the domain is free of any other vampire's control, they could do as they wished here.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 07, 2015, 09:21:27 pm
Heldric nods "Getting inside and finding a place of safety for the evening would be wise, we can all feed again properly here. In the morning as we rest, half of our ghouls can work on Gathering the info we need while we sleep."

He clearly intends to head into the city quickly and as discreetly as possible with a large caravan.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 07, 2015, 11:13:58 pm
"There is no priest here." Anton states. "We should make sure to keep us all well fed, fellows. The road is still long."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 08, 2015, 09:01:01 am
"Resupplying would be nice. None of us particularly enjoy being hungry so this will be useful. However, I'll be sure to keep Arnulf's advice in mind." Thinks Daniel.

Then he pipes up, "If this place has no prince, then we should take advantage of its prosperity and use the kine here to our gain; Workforce and Blood Supply!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 08, 2015, 11:51:10 am
"I would advise caution and treating the locals well," Steeple points out - "This very well could end up being a reward Domain for us, once we complete the fortress and prove ourselves worthy to our Sires."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 08, 2015, 12:22:34 pm
Daniel stops his train of thought at Steeple's wisdom. "Pardon my language, but hell! You're right."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 08, 2015, 12:28:51 pm
"I would advise caution and treating the locals well," Steeple points out - "This very well could end up being a reward Domain for us, once we complete the fortress and prove ourselves worthy to our Sires."
"The real question is why has this village not been claimed by a prince?" Anton asks, aloud. "It's a village in an isolated area, certainly a good location to set up. There may be something off in this place."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 08, 2015, 12:34:53 pm
"Oooh!" Steeple starts - "You don't suppose it's wolves?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 08, 2015, 12:55:13 pm
"Oooh!" Steeple starts - "You don't suppose it's wolves?"

"I doubt it. They are beasts of the wild, and we havent encountered them on the road. The easiest explanation would be that there is a strong presence of Christ in the area."

"It would be best to proceed with caution, unless we figure out what exactly has kept a prince from rising here."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 08, 2015, 01:02:48 pm
"Y...You don't suppose they have nuns do you?" steeple asks with an audible gulp...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 08, 2015, 01:06:53 pm
"Forget about the nuns, Steeple. Christ or not, it takes more than a few religious humans to scare us off. If Christianity is truly the reason, we may be facing a hunter threat." Deduces Daniel.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 08, 2015, 01:10:31 pm
"'Forget the nuns'," Steeple repeats to Prince Maurice in his pocket - "It's not like they stole my arm or anything..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 08, 2015, 01:19:32 pm
Heldric nods at the conversation "It is highly possible these are hunters or those of true faith here, we must proceed through and feed here but we must also be careful. Shall we spead our guards between our carriages as we enter? We can keep a low profile while we pass through, I could spend a night assessing the area for us if you wish?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 08, 2015, 01:26:50 pm
"'Forget the nuns'," Steeple repeats to Prince Maurice in his pocket - "It's not like they stole my arm or anything..."

"Inhuman beasts" the rock says quietly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 08, 2015, 01:28:33 pm
Heldric nods at the conversation "It is highly possible these are hunters or those of true faith here, we must proceed through and feed here but we must also be careful. Shall we spead our guards between our carriages as we enter? We can keep a low profile while we pass through, I could spend a night assessing the area for us if you wish?"

"I do not think we have the night to spend. It would be best to simply gather food for our mortal servants, and leave, not drawing much attention, and keeping our beast at bay, for now, at least."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 08, 2015, 01:41:43 pm
In the end they decide to let the mortals have their rest, as the exhaustion would most likely soon give way to mutiny.

Brother Joseph took the reins of the lead wagon and before too long they were before the gates of Klausenberg.

Two guards waited at the gate, armed and armored wary looking men who stopped the wagon train before it reached the gate.

"Who goes there?" They ask.

Brother Joseph replies quickly for the group - "We are pilgrims in need of an inn."

“And what makes you think you’ll find one here, Traveler!” – The Guard asked, rudely.

The guards are clearly not too willing to let the coterie inside the city - so Sylvian intervenes, riding ahead of the group on his horse.

"We are weary travelers in need of rest, we ask nothing but that we have somewhere to rest our heads today. Please, let us pass." - says Sylvian with liberal use of Presence.

“Forgive us, we did not mean any harm by it.” – The Guard said in spite of himself, even as he pulled open the gate and the coterie passed through.

Klausenberg’s streets were nothing more than muddy footpaths scattered between rickety and worn houses, there were no more than a handful of shops lining the main street, which was dominated by a single, dilapidated church. All of this juxtapose to the sturdy stone wall and keep that surround it.

There was only one inn, not too far from the church; the Sign of the Traveler was its marker.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 08, 2015, 02:11:41 pm
"So it is a church dominated area..." Thinks Daniel.

Daniel turns around to the exhausted mortals in the group and peeks at fragile Wilhelm who must be feeling terrible if the other regular ghouls are tired.

Then, Daniel exclaims, "Anton, it appears that your prediction was sound. We should move on to that inn and hurry our errands before our presence here is noted."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 08, 2015, 02:12:25 pm
"Aargh! It's sooo close to that church!" Steeple squirms, hurrying his herd toward the Inn.

"Let's get inside fast, so we don't have to look at it anymore!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 08, 2015, 02:14:36 pm
Lucien nods.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 08, 2015, 02:18:28 pm
"That would be best." Anton replies. "Brother Joseph, do you know of this church?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 08, 2015, 02:19:14 pm
The monk shakes his head.

"I have never been to Klausenburg brother Anton. I could go in and ask questions if you wish."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 08, 2015, 02:22:10 pm
"It may the best course of action." Abton replies with a nod.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 08, 2015, 02:22:55 pm
The weary monk nods and gets off his wagon, heading alone to the church.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 08, 2015, 02:25:03 pm
Heldric moves under the cover of the wagon so he is not seen then uses Obs to turn invisible before heading very slowly and carefully outside to investigate the tavern area, checking for dangers around the inn or for watchers from the church.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 08, 2015, 03:07:52 pm
Kiril stays protectively near Sherazhina.  "What about you?" he asks her.  "Are you feeling all right?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 08, 2015, 04:03:53 pm
Daniel rounds up his ghouls and heads inside the inn while maintaining a cautious mind set. He makes sure that his ghouls are using the same train of thought too.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 08, 2015, 07:00:02 pm
"Bleck! Look at this dump," Steeple remarks, "I can assure you that when complete, Steepleton will be a place marauders will be more than happy to sack. Not something worthless, like this sty."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 08, 2015, 09:52:27 pm
Kiril

Kiril stays protectively near Sherazhina.  "What about you?" he asks her.  "Are you feeling all right?"

"I'm fine Kiril, just tired. We've been traveling non-stop" says the revenant.

Carinus, meanwhile, notes the surrounding area.

"If this is what is considered a city this far out I should hate to see the villages we will be dealing with near the Tihuta pass. You know, I think that I know a legend or two about this place."

Everyone

Leaving their wagons and horses at the empty stables, the group goes into the inn. It was crowded with locals when the coterie entered - yet the clamor quieted down at their appearance. The vampires feel many eyes on them. Steeple and Lucien note that many feel hostile.

Inside, Wilhelm and Vincent head to the barkeeper to secure rooms. The cotterie hears the following conversation.

“We seek lodging, we have travelled from Buda – Pest and are weary, there are two dozen of us, but we will take what we can get.” – Vincent says.

“Sorry, we’ve got no rooms here.” – The barkeep.

“What? You’ve got at least four rooms, I see the keys there, we will pay whatever price you ask, we only require a hearty meal and a good bed.” – Wilhelm.

“I said we have no room.” – The Barkeep responded.

The coterie looks the man over. He was large, larger than Vincent. His hair was the colour of toasted wheat and his beard hid a great deal of his face. He was a hard man, a proud man.

“Then please, let our horses rest in your livery, we’ll buy some feed and we’ll be out of your hair.” – Wilhelm

“We have no feed. You’d best move onto the next town, we’ve got nothing for your kind here.” – The Barkeep
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 08, 2015, 11:00:56 pm
Daniel nudges Sylvain and discretely asks him, "My ghouls aren't doing well over there. Do you think that you can help?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 09, 2015, 07:33:23 am
"I do feel a bit discriminated against," Steeple remarks to the group.

"Excuse me, while I go see if the church will offer us sanctuary for the evening..."

With that, Steeple removes himself from the inn and directs his herd to take his wagons aside.

Steeple then uses Obfuscate to creep over to the church, where he activates the Wooden Tongue to ask the building what's inside...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 09, 2015, 04:20:21 pm
“Excuse me! But my man asked for food and rest, and you shall give it to him.” Sylvian says, commandingly.

His eyes darken as the beast bucked again at the chains he so carefully held in place, since he’d begun this journey it had been far too aggressive. he was not about to let it free now.

The coterie hears movement behind them, chairs being pushed back, footsteps coming closer….

“My lord.” It was Odi, gently drawing his attention with a touch of his hand. Should the group turn they would see that the men, maybe a dozen strong, were standing. Poised for a fight. Some had weapons. One had taken a torch from the wall. Something wasn’t right.

Carinus moves closer to Kiril and suggests softly - "Perhaps I should discuss the situation with the barkeep?"

Steeple

Having quite rightly left the tavern, Steeple approaches the church. He hears the gentle whisper of far away voices through the walls - perhaps brother Joseph and whomever he was sent to ask questions to?

Approaching the building itself, he tries to glean who has been inside of it.

He sees crisp, clean images of a short, balding friar and a large number of townsman - perhaps half the population of the city, maybe a bit less.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 09, 2015, 04:36:22 pm
Kiril nods.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 09, 2015, 04:44:37 pm
Lucien activates heightened hearing, he wanted to know if any of the townsmen were whispering around their back.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 09, 2015, 05:28:58 pm
Daniel tries to appear defeated and leaves the tavern while whispering to Wilhelm, "I'll be back in a moment."
If he gets outside without a hassle, Daniel will try to find a spot where he won't be seen so that he can change his appearance. Now that his current face is being associated with the group, he'll have to change it.


OOC: Can I look like this?  ;D
http://images1.fanpop.com/images/photos/2200000/Aragorn-screencaps-viggo-mortensen-2256978-960-404.jpg
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 09, 2015, 06:20:11 pm
Heldric defiantly does not want tobe embroiled in a fight right now. He also sees about exiting.

"As I am not welcome here, I also shall heed the warning and depart for now." He carefully heads outside, then when unseen uses obs to change appearance then to become unseen and carefully edges inside the in. Again, careful to avoid contact and not get between the others and the humans.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 09, 2015, 09:02:11 pm
"I agree with you Heldric." He exits and does the same thing Daniel did, except he'll go for Legolas.

Both femine and Masculine.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 10, 2015, 06:42:39 am
Steeple Heightens his hearing and sneaks close enough to listen into the conversation going on inside the church.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 04:08:33 pm
Carinus moves in front of Sylvian, cooly staring down the barkeeper, not looking behind him at the massed men.

“You will at least give our horses feed and water before we go. You have one hour.” He commanded.

The man’s fierce eyes dulled as Carinus' will overwhelmed his. He would do his bidding, no matter what he wanted. No one would die... at least not yet.

While this happens, Heldric, who was invisible before now chooses to randomnly make himself visible and declare himself leaving - scaring the hell out of everyone suspiciously announces that he is leaving the tavern, along with Daniel and Lucien.

Outside, the two fleshcrafters pointlessly begin altering their appearances.

Steeple

OOC: I was already going to give the full scene to Aman, so i'll just give you the same - even if you would arrive later.

Joseph found himself within the church. The wreck of a chapel was manned by a single friar and Joseph could tell by looking at him that he was a tired man.

“Good evening, friar” – Joseph, whispering

“Greetings, brother.” – The Friar

“I am Brother Joseph; I hail from the Tyniec Abbey, and am on pilgrimage, I was wondering if there was a place that my brothers and I might rest our heads.” – Joseph

“I am sorry, no. We are a small parish with only a single priest, and we share him with two other towns nearby. He sleeps on a cot in the back. Indeed, I am here only temporarily to keep the doors open while he is away. I am Brother Tybald.” - The Friar

“Ah well, I understand. It must be very difficult to keep the flock’s attention when you can pay so little.” – Joseph

“Indeed, but these folk are an exclusive lot. They keep their own council for the most part. We give service twice a week and are lucky to see half the populace between the two. Though it is hard to speak of a savior in abstract when they have one of their own who is all to present and real in their lives, even if he is just an old legend.” – Tybald

“How so, are they pagan?” – Joseph

“Oh no, it’s more superstition than worship. They claim that one of their own protects them from the darkness beyond these walls. They say he was a great hunter from their great-grandfather’s time, they feared the night in a way that we fear hell itself, but that this hunter, he drove back the darkness. He crafted 13 arrows, with which to slay that which terrorized Napoca, and with three he struck out, slaying the darkness that ruled the city. Saint Mitru they call him, slayer of darkness, they say that even after he died God gave him the task of protecting the town from the devil’s children… who’s to say its not true?” – Tybalt explained.

“Who, indeed?” – Joseph.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 10, 2015, 04:35:34 pm
Anton nods, and whispers to Kiril.
"I assume your servant has everything under control, yes?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 10, 2015, 05:32:23 pm
"Huh, thank goodness the Priest is out of town!" Steeple mumbles to himself, while listening. "Wonder what this protector thing is, though..."

"Oh well, when the Priest's away, the Vamps will play!" Steeple chuckles as he attempts to slip into the church for a look around - especially in the 'back room'...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 06:40:29 pm
"Yes, curious." Prince Maurice comments.

"No doubt just some fanciful legend. We haven't encountered anything yet after all, and we've been in Napoca for quite a while!"

There isn't really a way into the church other than through the front - the place may be in terrible condition but it is still intact.

He could quite easily wait for brother Joseph (who is going to leave now) to get out and then slip in through the doors, however.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 10, 2015, 06:57:22 pm
"Hmm, I wonder when BroJoeJoe is coming out." Steeple muses, waiting at the door for a chance to slip in.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 06:59:32 pm
A Steeple muses, the monk opens the church doors- the old wooden doors creak open on rusty hinges and the deft Malkavian manages to slip in unnoticed before they close.

He is left alone in the church with the friar, unnoticed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 10, 2015, 07:14:15 pm
Anton nods, and whispers to Kiril.
"I assume your servant has everything under control, yes?"

"Are we staying here or not?" Kiril quietly replies.  "Why did everyone else leave?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 10, 2015, 07:21:04 pm
Inside the church, Steeple searches around for anything indicative of the state of the town - or clues to the nature of the 'protector' - or anything unusual or just plain nifty.

He'll be careful to stay out of the friar's way and will try to get into the 'back room' for an extra inquisitive search.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 07:35:29 pm
There isn't much - the church is not a rich church, there are no resplendent trappings or golden crosses. Searching about Steeple finds a large bible written in a language he cannot read (latin most likely), various robes (some priestly, some monk's robes), writing equipment - likely the friar and the priest's, some holy water (though a quick test confirms that it isn't all too potent, it makes him rather uncomfortable, and he doesn't really feel like he should bring it with him).

Steeple finds nothing of great interest, unusualness or niftiness.

However, upon entering the backroom, the malkavian is instantly confronted with a massive wooden cross... which he promptly ignores, controlling his fear epically well.

He continues searching, but finds that there is an unfortunate lack of secret basements.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 10, 2015, 07:47:58 pm
A little disappointed, Steeple leaves the back room and waits for an opportunity to sneak back out of the church to rejoin the Coterie.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 07:48:54 pm
Soon enough, another supplicant comes to the church and the friar opens the door - Steeple escapes once more unseen.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 10, 2015, 07:49:06 pm
"Are we staying here or not?" Kiril quietly replies.  "Why did everyone else leave?"
"I do not know. Perhaps they fear these mortals." Anton replies quietly with a shrug. "As for what we must do, I feel it may be best to know what Brother Joseph has learnt. If Christ is powerful in this village, we will want to leave swiftly."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 07:50:11 pm
Should Anton turn and look at the entrance, he will see Brother Joseph waiting - clearly the monk does not want to interrupt what is happening right now.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 10, 2015, 07:52:40 pm
Heldric ensures that he is invisible again and begins looking for a lone human who he can approach without anyone else witnessing the event.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 10, 2015, 07:59:28 pm
Should Anton turn and look at the entrance, he will see Brother Joseph waiting - clearly the monk does not want to interrupt what is happening right now.
Seeing his monk-ghoul, Anton nods.
"Brother, if you can, get your servant to set us up for the whole night, for now." Anton states. "Then we'll see the situation with the Church nearby."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 08:00:01 pm
It's late at night - the city market is closed, most everyone is at home sleeping or at the inn he'd just left. Invisibly prowling the streets, the Nosferatu searches for another victim to add to his many.

Tonight the victim would be a young girl, having not yet reached full womanhood. Evidently even in a village such as this the oldest profession had its practitioners. She’d caught his eye within minutes of leaving the inn, and yet (if he chooses to continue his hunt) it takes him a full hour before he is able to catch her truly alone.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 10, 2015, 08:08:27 pm
"All right.  Carinus, we want to stay this night, and tomorrow through the day as well."

Kiril turns to his brother.  "The servants can rest for now, while we remain alert; during the day, they can protect us.  If danger awaits us in the woods outside the town, better to face it in darkness, don't you agree?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 10, 2015, 08:10:50 pm
Anton nods.
"Yes, that would be best. And we can always leave ahead of schedule." Anton states.

"Now let us go greet brother Joseph." Anton then states, as he starts to walk through the crowd to the weary monk.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 08:16:04 pm
Once arriving, Joseph tells Anton of what he heard (See the encounter as given to Steeple).

"I would advise leaving this place as soon as possible brother Anton. From what I just saw you are not wanted here, and who can know what dangers will visit us as you sleep?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 10, 2015, 08:26:26 pm
Upon having his appearance successfully changed, Daniel tells Lucien, "We should go in at different times."

Then, he enters the tavern once again as unsuspiciously as possible... Hoping to whichever deity is out there that they take him for another token towns person.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 10, 2015, 08:28:49 pm
Once arriving, Joseph tells Anton of what he heard (See the encounter as given to Steeple).

"I would advise leaving this place as soon as possible brother Anton. From what I just saw you are not wanted here, and who can know what dangers will visit us as you sleep?"

Anton nods.
"The problem with that, Brother, is that we leave this place with no Christ. The church is half deserted, brother, due to this 'hero', the townsfolk believe in. Even if they are believers in Christ, this weakness their belief."

"We will have to discuss this with the group, but I live for the word of Christ, and this is a problem that must be handled...." Anton mutters, and then shakes his head.

"But not now. The greater good must be served first. If we waste time saving the few in this barren city, then we may fail in gaining a full city to save." Anton states.

"Kiril, I do not believe we should stay. We must return, but not now."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 10, 2015, 08:32:26 pm
Lucien really just wanted a reason to use Viccissitude. He doesnt give 2 craps about the townsmen.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 08:39:06 pm
Upon having his appearance successfully changed, Daniel tells Lucien, "We should go in at different times."

Then, he enters the tavern once again as unsuspiciously as possible... Hoping to whichever deity is out there that they take him for another token towns person.

Nope.

He receives the same hostile looks that the other travelers received, he will not be accepted as one of them it seems.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 10, 2015, 08:41:07 pm
"And what about our servants, who need to rest, brother?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 10, 2015, 08:46:16 pm
"And what about our servants, who need to rest, brother?"
"This place is not the place for rest, brother. It is a Place for reckoning."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 10, 2015, 08:52:22 pm
Lucien walks in shortly after Daniel, but he will use his Viccistude to fake having a beating heart.

if his suspicions is true... these we're no mortal men. No mortal would stand up to them. Before Lucien walks in though, he will tell Ennius "I think we're dealing with wolfs."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 08:57:25 pm
Lucien might be surprised to find that you cannot, in fact, fake a heartbeat with vicissitude. You can by spending blood though!

Still the hostile looks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 10, 2015, 09:05:19 pm
"Well, hell." Thinks Daniel. "I guess I'll just shut up and wait outside while the actual speakers of the group try to do something."

Daniel heads back outside disappointingly. He also takes his ghouls with him; just to assure they know that it's him, he whispers to them about an event that happened in their childhood to prove it.

He asks his ghouls, "Do you think that they're more than kine? I've got a feeling but I'd like your opinions first."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 09:12:43 pm
Vincent: "Nawp"

Wilhelm: "I doubt they are supernatural in nature, Carinus should have been unable to so easily Dominate the inkeeper if this were the case."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 10, 2015, 09:18:57 pm
He inquires to Wilhelm, "Any idea why they knew to fear us so much? If this can add to your deductions, Arnulf told me to be careful in this city but he didn't say why."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 09:20:23 pm
Wilhelm continues - "They know you are vampires brother, many we have crossed are very easily aware as to your nature."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 10, 2015, 09:21:58 pm
bah, meesly sheep. Lucien thought to himself while going back outside.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 10, 2015, 09:26:58 pm
"Any thoughts on where else I can get you some rest? Because if we can't get compliance here, we'll have to trek further."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 10, 2015, 10:14:30 pm
"Better to rest later than rest once and never again." Wilhelm says, quite simply.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 10, 2015, 10:16:40 pm
"Good point." Agrees Daniel.

Daniel returns his face to normal after he hides it first. Then, he returns into the tavern and tells the coterie, "I think we should cut our losses and go to the next town. Regardless of their reasoning, if they're going to put up a fuss about letting us stay, can we really assure we'd sleep safely under their watch?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 11, 2015, 07:02:09 am
Steeple tells his herd to ready themselves to ride on. Then moving to the other wagons, he tells all of the Coterie's servants and ghouls - "Tell your masters that this dump is protected by a vampire slaying arrow god of some kind and he's waiting for us all to fall asleep before killing the lot."

"We need to leave immediately, or face him in his own domain on his own timeline. I'll be waiting at the town gate, if they think it wise to follow. Otherwise, I set off on my own in one hour."

With that, Steeple hops onto his wagon and rides to the town gate. There, he'll wait for the rest of the Coterie (unless they don't show).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 11, 2015, 08:27:39 am
To the coterie, Daniel says, "Well! That's all I needed to hear. We should be off."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 11, 2015, 12:24:17 pm
Heldric watches the girl for a time while he decides. "Too young and already downtrodden" He thinks to himself. "Not worth it tonight" He finally decides before heading back to his carriage and companions. He had been planning to intimidate her and gain information about the city and their hostility and confidence but her age and social standing finally made him decide it was not worth her death just for the information, he cannot touch without most likely killing after all and the Nosferatu often have soft spots for those in the worst situations.

He keeps his invisibility in place and heads back as quickly as possible, there is no telling the trouble that might have started in his absence.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 11, 2015, 04:55:42 pm
Anton nods, and heads back with Brother Joseph to the carriages.
"Come brother, we must go." he says to his actual brother.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 11, 2015, 10:18:41 pm
Having thus made their decisions, the vampires left Klausenburg, grateful (or perhaps saddened) that no blood had been shed.

Yet the night was still young...

Sylvian had begun riding ahead of the group with his ghoul Aldric.

Anton and Daniel were both being cautious, it was not often that they traveled through the night and the stories of this hunter had made both Cainites weary.

Anton was back with the caravan, manning the lead wagon, his "senses" strained for anything out of the ordinary. Daniel and Lucien had mentioned Lupines being fond of the region and Brother Joseph's tale of St. Mitru had gotten him more than a little nervous. Alongside him Fantoma moved tirelessly, the immense dark beast moving with practiced ease through the unforgiving forest path. The mercenary ghouls for their part were still marching strong, no doubt partly due to the blood of Caine flowing through their still beating hearts.

They’d been travelling for two hours and according to the barkeep the forest’s edge was not too far off, beyond which was a town that would have lodgings.

Something was most definitely not right.

It was Aldric who caught wind of the ambush. The sound of creaking was too constant. Too well patterned to be natural…unfortunately there was only one thing he could do before the attack began.

“HELP!!!” – Aldric cried.

Before he could even stop screaming an arrow embedded itself in his chest. He shifts momentarily around in his saddle, looking about confused, before slumping and falling off his horse onto the muddy earth below.

Dozens of arrows cut a dangerous path through the air, following closely behind the one that had silenced Aldric. Sylvian - forewarned by his ghoul - dives off of his horse and lets it take several deadly arrows in his place.

Anton also takes the brunt of a volley, three arrows tearing through his armour and piercing his dead flesh, with Ennius riding outside next to Lucien's wagon taking another four. Unlike Anton, Ennius seems entirely unaffected by the volley.

Three mercenaries went down in the initial volley, two wounded badly, one dead. Of the three that remained standing not a one went unscathed.

None can truly see the attackers in the darkness, but shadowy figures are still visible in the forest surrounding them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 11, 2015, 10:38:22 pm
OOC; you farker. Poor Aldric, we are screwed without him.  :'(

Anton grunts as he quickly attempts to heal his wounds, while slowly adjusting his sight to see the fools who dare Attack them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 11, 2015, 10:45:33 pm
As the ashen knight's mortal wounds begin closing over, he turns his gaze into the dark recesses of the forest that so carefully hid his enemies.

Ten men, looking to be hunters armed with bows, hid within the brush, even now readying the next volley of arrows to send forward. Two stand out, veritable monsters in appearance - with glowing red eyes, terrible fangs and inhuman features, they stay closer together than the other ambushers.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 11, 2015, 10:49:03 pm
"10 archers, brothers, 2 of them lupine or kindred!" Anton quickly informs the group. "Kiril, raise the night!" Anton then adds
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 11, 2015, 10:55:44 pm
"Hell... Fighting is not my strong suit. Either way, I'd better do something." Thinks Daniel.

"Vincent! Take Wilhelm and protect him! You are not to leave him!" Commands Daniel.

Since charging through a barrage of arrows is not a good idea without Fortitude, Daniel adopts the form of a sparrow (Taking three turns to change as only to spend one blood point) and flies over the scene in an attempt to locate the attackers.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 12, 2015, 12:23:00 am
"Ennius, are you a knight or a needlepin?" Lucien asked quite calmly considering the circumstances. "Take a wolf alive."

Then he gently stroked Josephs mane. "Go to Ennius." He told him as he jumped off. On the ground, he took up a handful of dirt. "Game on." He muttered with a wicked grin. He then activates Horrid form. "BEHOLD THE POWER OF VICCISTUDE" He roars out to his friends. he throws the  dirt aside and laughs maniacly. "Leave the wolfs alive if possible, they are to become my playthings."He shouted to the fellow kindreds. " he then boosted both strength and stamina by one point before sprinting to the forest, not directly at the archers though he aimed to flank them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 12, 2015, 07:00:18 am
From the cover of his wagon, Steeple activates Heightened Senses and Elemental Strength (3 to Stamina), and bumps Dexterity with as many Blood Points as he can (+4?).

When ready, Steeple splits a previously cast Will o' The Wisp into two motes to have them fly from the lantern on his wagon and hover directly in front of the two 'leaders' eyes - keeping them there and flaring brightly.

As this goes on, Steeple rushes through the ambush to the other side, dodging attacks along the way.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 12, 2015, 11:59:02 am
Heldric quickly turns to Andreas as he pulls him inside the cart (If he was not already) and uses cloak the gathering on them "We move now, I will cloak you until you reach the tree line, after that I presume you will give yourself away and can simply fight normally. Wait until others make a move to attack though, I do not want you running alone into an ambush." He then carefully sneaks out to circle round to the opposite flank from Lucien, careful to stay invisible.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 13, 2015, 03:37:51 pm
Kiril reserves two tentacles for his own protection, they'll act as shields against arrows or other attacks.  The other three tentacles will come from the darkness concealing the archers, and act to strike at the regular enemies.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 13, 2015, 05:23:39 pm
Steeple sends the Will'o the wisp motes into the forest, searching for the two monsters who he cannot quite see yet. He has them flare brightly, revealing the attackers to the others, and then moves them towards the two creatures that he recognized from Anton's description as the two "leaders" in an effort to distract them.

He easily makes his way around the side without being molested. Not a single arrow flies his way - Steeple might be surprised at this - or perhaps concerned that they are so unafraid of him getting closer.

One of the monsters then rapidly begins drawing and losing arrows - he does so with such incredible, inhuman speed as to almost make the others gasp. Odi, still mounted, had been about to charge into the forray - when a miniature volley of three arrows, each aimed directly for his head, strike him - bypassing the majority of his armor, save for a single chain-mail wrapped head.

He falls from his horse, killed almost instantly - but the monster is not done. He takes four other arrows, lighting them very quickly from a source no one else quite sees - and then pauses, looking over the others.

Kiril, seeing the danger to himself, summons dark tendrils from the shadows around himself - two he summons directly form his clothing, wrapping it around his body for protection. The other three he summons around three of the archers that the will'o the wisps have illuminated - though none are caught in the grasp of the tendrils, dodging aside before they could be grabbed by the terrifyingly strong shadows.

It's then that one of the bowmen darts ahead of his group, throwing something at the caravan carrying the Librum and other supplies for the castle - then the distinct smell of pitch fills the air, and the cotterie can only watch as the monster fires one of his fiery arrows into the wagon, sending the entire thing up in flames.

The bowman who had thrown the pitch on the wagon throws a second bottle over the mercenary guarding it (one of the less injured ones) - and he soon joins the wagon he was charged with protecting in terrible flaming destruction. He screams, running forward and dropping his weapon - moving horribly close to Heldric's wagon, almost sending the Nosferatu into the clutches of the Red Fear.

Moving into his wagon, an unsettled Heldric immediately hides himself - ordering Andreas to go out and fight the bowmen, while Mr. Whitey assumes that Heldric wants the awesome protection of the albino crocodile ghoul.

He then moves outside unseen - as far as he can tell, none know where he is, and no arrows are fired at him. He moves by Lucien's wagon, waiting for the Tzimisce and his knight to make a move so as to take advantage of the hunters when their backs would be turned.

Daniel quickly barks an order to Vincent before beginning his transformation into a sparrow. His bones begin cracking and reforming as he starts to change shape.

Carinus takes a quick look out of his wagon and then dives out, moving lithely and using the large, lumbering things as cover before sliding unnoticed into the forest area.

Two of the archers take up their bows and fire again, driving a follow into the remaining mercenaries, all of whom go down - this time permanently. Only the flaming one is still alive, and he's rather doomed.

three others also move forward, ahead of everyone else and closer to the coterie - throwing more and more bottles of pitch at the wagons - everything is struck, the bottles shattering on the enclosed vehicles and casting pitch everywhere. Worse, Lucien notes that Ennius is struck by a bottle.

Of course, even as he notes Ennius' vulnerability, one of the flaming arrows strikes him. The vampire knight bursts into flame, his armor soaked with the heavy substance.

The knight holds his ground, but Lucien can only imagine the terror overwhelming him as the flames ate at his skin.

Vincent, seeing that each of the wagons had been covered in pitch, immediately grabs his brother and his transforming domitor and jumps out - just in time too, as Daniel's wagon also bursts into flame right around then. Daniel's driver moves too slowly to get out, and he can hear the ghoul's screams from within the thing.

An arrow passes by Lucien's head, lightly cutting a cheek, and another strikes his wagon - though the Tzimisce gratefully notes that the arrow is not on fire.

Sylvian then acts, moving with surprising alacrity away from his dead horse. Death is in his eyes and one of the bowmen who has yet to attack knows it, startled, he trips backwards as he sees the Toreador's fury. Sylvian greatly enhances his strength and, in the violent throws of his Frenzy, dashes through into the forest and attacks with reckless abandon, hacking apart the terrified bowman with two blows from his scimitar.

Lucien, steeling his courage against the flames devouring his bound slave, leaps off of his pitch covered wagon and onto the dirt, his bones cracking and his beautiful visage changing into a form so terrible that it shames the two creatures that lead the bowmen against the coterie. He stands up, massive, powerful, an inhuman beast, and roars out his challenge as his blood burns in his long dead veins, his muscles turning to iron. He charges into the forest to take the bowmen  - and the second monster, until now inactive, meets his challenge. Dropping the bow he was to use the creature's body shifts and breaks and cracks as he rapidly forms into a dark, sleek wolf. The beast darts out from the trees and towards Lucien, intercepting him - and the two combatants clash.

Lucien brings his now comically undersized kopis down on the wolf's head as it attacks him, the blade opening a small and bloodless streak in the wolf's shoulder.

It's then that Lucien realizes what they are fighting - these "creatures" are vampires.

The wolf darts closer to Lucien and sinks his fangs into Lucien's calf, shaking his head vigorously to make greater tears in the vampire's flesh.

Barrabas gets out of his wagon, spotting the assembled enemies and grimacing terribly. He gets off the wagon and moves off - possibly following Carinus?

Wilhelm, having been pulled into a position of safety by Vincent, looks out from around his wagon at the fighting - he stares grimly at the vampire
 that fights Lucien, placing a curse on the Cainite.

Ennius, having resisted Rotshreck, is still on Farking fire. He rips his flaming armor off, stripping himself of all natural protection as he does so. There are slight burn marks on his person, but not nearly anything as terrible as there should have been given what just happened.

From inside Heldric's wagon, Andreas "sneaks" out, leaping from the wagon with such force that he actually rocks the thing back, landing right in the center of the enemy forces. He immediately grabs bowman two's surprised head and mashes his skull into a nearby tree.

Last to act, the schlacta gets off the wagon and charges ahead to assist its master. It strikes at a nearby bowman, deformed hands raking across a tree, as the archer dodges, leaving long claw marks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 13, 2015, 05:43:20 pm
Dropping four more Blood Points into Strength, Steeple launches at the bowman that is ignoring him from behind - swinging his cane sword at the thing's neck (called shot? + 1 Willpower) with all he is worth!

"Sanches? Is that you?" he asks the fiend.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 13, 2015, 06:07:51 pm
Heldric burns a will for initiative, then 4 blood, two for dexterity and two for strength as he begins moving quickly towards the monstrous archer, slipping on his punch gloves as he does so, Having Mr. whitey following him is helpful but he indicates that it should only attack once he has revealed himself.

Once close to the celerity using enemy Heldric moves as silently as possible to get close and punch it square in the eyes, one spike from the glove into each eye socket to temporarily blind the enemy, then have Mr. Whitey latch onto a limb and begin tearing it off.

If spotted part way through his attempt to get close , and thus having his cover blown he will attempt to use vanish from the minds eye on himself and all his nearby allies. They will be revealed nearly instantly after but the act of them abruptly vanishing usually stuns foes for a few seconds and even a partial success makes them look ghostly, and even if they immediately give themselves away, he can try and remain hidden if it is successful.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 14, 2015, 12:47:30 am
OOC: Yeahhh... Three turns is too much. I'll burn the extra two blood to get the transformation done in one turn!

BIC: Upon completion of his new avian form, Daniel flies to where the now illuminated enemies are hiding and will hover right above them. He will try to find out which one is firing the flaming arrows and in response, Daniel will burn another three blood points to change into a bear and land on top of him with his new body-crushing weight.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 14, 2015, 12:11:36 pm
Lucien spends will for initiative, then he throws his Kopis aside and attacks with his claws. He will try to evade the vampires strike.

"We are facing kindred."  He shouts to the others.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 15, 2015, 08:22:19 am
Kiril continues doing more of the same. Maybe the archers won't dodge this time.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 15, 2015, 11:28:05 am
Anton, seeing the darkness as light, quickly raises the shroud, attempting to surround the Hunter Leaders with stifling darkness. And like his brother, attempts to summon dark steel from the shadows of the forest, to bash the poor archers with. (He'll also attempt to dodge if neccesary).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 15, 2015, 03:56:53 pm
The still-humanoid vampire rapidly reacts to the continuing fight - drawing and firing 5 more arrows - setting every single one of the remaining wagons on fire. Sherazhina manages to get out of Kiril's wagon, while Kiril is forced to leap off his wagon or burn. Fernando's cries of pain also echo from within the wagon, as he is too slow to get out.

Nadia manages to get out of Steeple's wagon - but no one else does, and Igor and Sebastian are doomed by the flames.

Anton is similarly forced to get out of his wagon - Brother Joseph, who had been near the exit, leaves before the flames envelop him.

Heldric hears his ghoul's terrified screams as she is engulfed by the flames. By now, the only remaining drivers are the schlacta, Brother Joseph and Barrabus.

Steeple rushes the vampire that had just ruined them all, drawing his cane sword while massively increasing his strength and bringing it down on the neck of the vampire with enough force to decapitate a lesser cainite - only to have his arm painfully jarred as the sword-cane is stopped almost instantly - if he didn't know any better, he'd think he'd just struck stone. He sees a tiny cut left by his sword as it bounces back off of the monster's neck - even as it heals he at least has the satisfaction of knowing he dealt the beast some damage. He also sees it turn it's terrible glowing red eyes onto him.

As it does, Steeple also sees the glow suddenly become obstructed - as Heldric appears out of nowhere and eye-punches the vampire. Twice.

However, both times Heldric feels as if his fist is slamming into a brick wall - he does nothing to the vampire, rather he feels like he has actually injured his hands trying to attack him more than anything else.

Vincent stays by the flaming wreckage of the caravan, keeping Wilhelm safe as his master/brother flies over the forest in his new bird form.

Anton raises a shroud around the wolf that is currently in the process of mauling Lucien, and then creates dark tendrils around many of the archers. Nearly every single archer dodges out of the way of the tendrils - save for one, Bowman 7, the one fighting the schlacta - who is then subsequently crushed and smashed against a tree, left lying on the ground with almost too many broken bones. Anton then receives two arrows to the face, as Bowman 1 returns fire on the ashen knight - the first rams itself straight through his eye, piercing his skin like thin, wet cloth. The second flies straight through his other eye, violating the sanctity of his face, blinding and crippling the ashen knight in his pain.

The wolf combatting Lucien has been blinded by the shroud - so he moves out of the cloud, going backwards until the shroud rests between itself and Lucien. It then moves around the shroud, attacking Lucien again - this time biting and tearing at the horrid Tzimisce's stomach - though with astonishingly deceptive agility, Lucien sidesteps the lunge and the wolf's fangs bite the air.

Lucien discards his khopesh and then attacks with his mangled claws, raking them across the injured wolf's back and coming up with nothing but fur - Lucien growls with frustration, it is so exceedingly difficult to injure the damned wolf.

Bowman three takes aim at the monstrous Andreas who had literally just smeared his companion against a nearby three - he lets loose three arrows, moving rapidly and with assurance. All the arrows sink deep into the vampire's chest, coming dangerously close to his heart - even when Andreas tries to evade the third one. He heals himself but it is clear the vampire is gravely injured - just as Bowman three will soon be.

Kiril, meanwhile, summons his tendrils up again - this time another four emerge, and three archers are hit.

Bowman one is killed instantly as the tendril wraps around his neck and yanks his head back, both crushing him against a tree and breaking his neck. 

Bowman three is hit hard and is knocked to the ground and bowman two is slightly injured as the tendril cracks at him like a whip, grazing his back.

Bowman two retaliates with two arrows, much like the bowman 1 (who has so seriously messed up Anton). One sinks into Kiril's stomach, just under a protective tendril, while another goes deep into his hip and shatters part of the bone, crippling him.

Daniel spots the leader of abruptly shifts into bear form mid flight, dropping onto the hapless archer below.

As he approaches, he realizes he made a mistake - he'd picked the wrong target! Bowman three dies horribly as a bear-sized bear violently lands on him from above.

What Daniel did not perhaps consider, was that falling from any distance would hurt him almost as much as it would hurt the person he would land on - as his paws tell him when he feels many small, unintegral bones shatter on landing.

Bowman four and six now take aim at Steeple and Heldric, each firing once - both the madman and the leper receive arrows straight to the back, though neither is too terribly injured.

Sylvian joins the fight Lucien is having with the wolf, further boosting his strength and wildly hacking at the wolf - who has many gashes opened on its body in the ruthless attack (though most close).

Andreas, horribly injured, rips the arrows out of his body and begins healing - then leaps at Bowman two, grabbing and ruthlessly beating the hunter into the ground until nothing moved anymore.

Bowman 8 Looks like he's about to fire on Andreas - something that would have no doubt spelled the end for the mortally wounded Nosferatu - when Carinus appears behind the archer, putting the man into a chokehold. Barrabus soon joins Carinus and the cannibal releases the hunter - that is to say, he releases the hunter's face into Barrabus' fist. The bowman takes the hits well enough, but they're hitting hard. He is forced to discard his bow as he enters combat with the two ghouls.

Wilhelm looks to the other monster, and tries to cast a curst on him - but the monster's will proves too great for the burgeoning koldun.

Bowman seven gets up, surging forward on force of will alone - and with a cudgel, begins beating the schlacta about to finish him off, hitting with enough force to audibly crack bones - but the war ghoul fights back against the crippled archer and ripping open his throat with deformed claws, killing the hunter.

Ennius, meanwhile, draws his greatsword and moves into the forest, ready to enter combat.

The wolf continues its assault then, moving with that same inhuman speed - it darts around Lucien and jumps up, deftly ripping open the schlacta's throat, killing the ghoul - before attacking Lucien again, this time tearing flesh out of the back of the Tzimisce's thighs.

It then shifts its attention to Sylvian, tackling the Toreador to the ground and eviscerating him. Sylvian is just about driven into torpor by his wounds then. Things are looking grim, as the ambushers take their toll on the vampires.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 15, 2015, 04:06:35 pm
Anton cries out in pain, pulling out the arrows from his eyes, as he quickly pulls his shroud to surround him, and burns willpowrr to ignore the pain while he releases more dark steel tentecles onto the archers, while healing himself with the remaining usable blood.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 15, 2015, 04:43:35 pm
"Ah, my mistake," Steeple says, taken aback by the monster's nigh invulnerability, "Clearly, you are not Sanches; Sanches was much prettier."

Steeple then brushes out the arrow and uses another three blood to keep Dex at 10, activates Animate the Unmoving to have his opponent's bow coil like a snake around the man's hands, and then focuses on full defense, not leaving, but trying to Dodge everything that comes his way.

"So, is your 'member' as hard as your face?" he ask the clearly superior foe, "I dare say you are quite the ladies man - but seeing no ladies among your coterie... Well, I guess that makes you a man's man haha!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 15, 2015, 06:45:13 pm
Heldric knows when he should not be in a fight and plans on an immediate retreat to get to a safe and survivable distance, he spends another will to try and expedite his leaving the area before he takes too many more hits and quickly pulls out the arrow and spends a blood point to heal then casts vanish from the minds eye on himself and all of his allies. He tries to sneak away.

He uses all of his abilities to try and dodge the incoming attacks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 15, 2015, 08:39:05 pm
Currently in bear form, Daniel burns one blood point to get his health back up to "Bruised" as to forget about that irritating -1 penalty and then he burns another three blood points to boost his strength as much has he can.

Once this is complete, he'll charge the opponent that Steeple and Heldric are having little success with (Since he kind of killed the guy he landed on) and thrash him with his claws & supernatural strength (That will happily be doing aggravated damage because claws are claws; take that fortitude!). Finally, he'll burn one willpower point to guarantee a success for him aiming his claws at this bastard's head.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 16, 2015, 11:59:18 am
enough is enough Lucien thinks to himself as he spends 3 blood to heal himself, and then tries to touch the gangrel attacking him, aiming to pierce his organs with his own blood.

He'll also spend will for a automatic success on his viccisitude roll.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 17, 2015, 11:22:57 am
Kiril burns as much blood as possible (4pts?) on healing himself this round.  The tentacles already in existence are commanded to continue attacking the archers.  Kiril himself focuses on dodging any incoming attacks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 18, 2015, 05:13:44 pm
Steeple wills the vampire's bow to wrap itself around his hands, closing them together and binding him. The malkavian then prepares himself to dodge any further attacks, backing away slightly in anticipation of the vampire's future attack.

However, the monster briefly turns its head down the path where the characters came up from. Coming up the path is a large troop of soldiers, perhaps 20 or 30 - surrounding a single, large enclosed wagon. One of the soldiers leans into the wagon a second, and then barks out an order - the entire troop surges forward, drawing their varied weapons and moving to assist the characters.

The monster sounds for a retreat, shifting very quickly into the form of an immense bat, transforming far faster than any vampire had right to be able to, and disappearing into the night with his companion. Bowman eight is killed and bowman 4 and 6 escape as well. They could be chased, of course, but is anyone willing to go deeper into the forest to do so?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 18, 2015, 05:17:52 pm
Heldric immediately moves behind a tree and alters his appearance to the one he had used before and knows well, trying to appear as human as possible in case the soldiers are not kindly inclined to his true form. He then ensures that Andreas and Mr. Whitey are able to heal their wounds while the soldiers approach.

The entire time he keeps a weary eye on the forest and the skies in case of spies or more attacks. He also ensures he is fully healed up, spending further blood if necessary.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 18, 2015, 05:29:35 pm
Seeing that there is no more to be done, Daniel passes behind a tree and reverts to his original, fabulous, form. Next, he spends three blood points to completely heal himself. Then, he runs up to Vince and Wilhelm to make sure they're okay.

Upon arrival, he'll ask Wilhelm, "Did everything go smoothly?" If Wilhelm or Vince are in negative situations; Daniel will give a reassuring smile and try to comfort them.

Also, when Daniel sees Lucien using the Szhlacta's corpse for a walking cane, he approaches Lucien and, as innocently as possible, asks, "May I use the rest of him? Sorry if I offend."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 18, 2015, 11:13:53 pm
Anton quickly dispersed his nightshade, as he heals (OOC: Drak, I'm going to assume the actions in the last round didn't happen since it didn't look like they did) 4 points of damage, and pulls out the arrows from his eyes, and stands up to greet the soldiers.

"Thank you." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 19, 2015, 01:11:55 am
Lucien immedietly reverts to his original also fabulous form. He will make sure to preserve the szlachta though. Honouring him by making a cool walking cane of his spine.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 19, 2015, 09:07:28 am
Kiril spends blood to heal, and heads towards Sherazhina, to protect her from whatever this new threat might be.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 19, 2015, 09:26:41 am
"FIRST BLOOD BITCH!!!" Steeple screams at the retreating bat.

He then heals himself the rest of the way.

"That was one stone cold bastard haha!" he says to Prince Maurice, briefly taking the stone out of his pocket to dust it off.

"Well, shit... they got my butler. So damn hard to find a decent butler nowadays," Steeple laments, putting Prince Maurice safely away.

Presuming the soldiers that saved them are not attacking, Steeple will call his Maid and Barabus over to see if they are wounded.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 19, 2015, 04:53:55 pm
Andreas drinks blood from the 6 corpses left behind, using it to heal himself of his many terrible wounds.

Everyone in the coterie also heals themselves to some degree or another - Heldric, Steeple and Daniel heal themselves of all their wounds, Anton rips the arrows out of his eyes and heals over the worst of the damage, regaining his sight, Kiril healing almost everything - the only two who cannot truly heal the damage they were caused are Lucien and Sylvian, both of whom seem to have difficulty with their injuries.

Daniel's brothers are both fine, relatively unaffected by the fighting as they had stayed behind.

Lucien barely able to walk, rips his schlacta's spine out and molds it into a crude walking stick - he could improve it later, for now at least it helps him move around.

Looking at Barabus, Steeple sees a nasty bruise over his head that even now is in the process of disappearing, remnants of bowman eight's cudgel no doubt. Nadia is uninjured, though she is clearly unsettled by what has happened - she is not a creature of battle, Steeple knows.

While Kiril checks on Sherazhina, he is joined by Carinus, his murderous servant's upper body and mouth stained with blood - while he hadn't watched the fight the cannibal had had with the bowman he could guess as to its conclusion.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 19, 2015, 05:00:26 pm
Daniel takes a leaf out of Andreas' book and feeds on the fresh corpses that Andreas hasn't touched himself. He does this out of respect for Andreas but we all know about that pesky disease he's got going too...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 19, 2015, 05:19:29 pm
Once the healing activities take place Heldric makes sure to compliment Steeple "Keep him happy and friendly" he thinks as he does so.

"Nicely done with the wound on that marble skinned beast, I was not even able to scratch him with my attacks never mind draw blood." He says to keep the rich noble on side then heads over to the wagons to assess damage to the contents. fire can consume a lot but a simple wagon fire should not have consumed properly made lock boxes or money itself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 19, 2015, 09:07:45 pm
Lucien will also feed as much as possible from the corpes, then he will also heal as much as possible.

"Ennius, if you got hurt feed and heal. And is your armor salvageable?" He asks
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 19, 2015, 10:46:36 pm
Anton, no longer crippled, grabs a dead body to drink blood from, as he looks the the soldiers. Having already thanked them, begins to speak.

"Who is your leader, so that we may thank for saving us?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 20, 2015, 02:39:19 pm
Anton drains one of the dead ghouls fully, Lucien, Sylvian and Daniel do so as well. Only one corpse remains with blood, tainted by Andreas.

Ennius replies to Lucien - "I do not think so, the stuff will have been ruined by the fire my lord. There is little blood left for me to feed off of, and I cannot heal these wounds dealt by flames."

Heldric, meanwhile, examines the still burning wagons. He is unable to come too close out of fear of the blazing inferno that had engulfed the things, but he can tell that it is not good - even if they can salvage the wagons, he judges that most everything the cotterie had been carrying with them will have been ruined by the flames.

Anton then looks to the gilded wagon that still rested atop the hill he and the others had passed through. He began the climb to see who had come to his aid.

He was joined by Steeple as he made his way toward the wagon. An officer was there speaking to someone of noble bearing he couldn’t quite see.

“Have those men who are not tending the wounded see if they can salvage anything from the wreckage. Let us pray that these pilgrims have not lost everything.” – the Nobleman.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 20, 2015, 02:58:17 pm
"That's probably the leader", Steeple whispers helpfully, motioning toward one of the horses drawing the noble's carriage.

Then with a sudden face-palm, he grins sheepishly and begins muttering several magic syllables, extinguishing the fires burning on some of the wagons and items of import.

"Almost forgot I could do that hehehe!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 20, 2015, 03:21:37 pm
Heldric hisses and backs away from the flames, nothing is worth the risk of getting burned or succumbing to his fears here.

Once Steeple intervention puts out three of the fires, he quickly heads for the money cart to see what can be salvaged. slaves can be created but money is more difficult to replace.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 20, 2015, 03:57:36 pm
"That's probably the leader", Steeple whispers helpfully, motioning toward one of the horses drawing the noble's carriage.

Then with a sudden face-palm, he grins sheepishly and begins muttering several magic syllables, extinguishing the fires burning on some of the wagons and items of import.

"Almost forgot I could do that hehehe!"
Anton nods.
"We should meet with him." Anton states, heading up to the nobleman.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 20, 2015, 04:20:59 pm
Kiril decides that even if Steeple does get the carriages extinguished, there's not much left to salvage.  He turns his attention to the nobleman- attempting to discern as much as possible about their purported saviour.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 20, 2015, 04:37:54 pm
The fires on the wagon carrying their money, Steeple's wagon, and then (with a quick suggestion from Prince Maurice), Heldric's wagon are all extinguished as the thaumaturge casts his spells.

Heading straight for the money cart, Heldric begins rummaging through it, looking to see if any of their funds were intact - only to find that there is almost nothing left. Only a small amount of Librum can be salvaged from the still-smoking remains, perhaps enough to feed their ghouls when they arrive at the next village. The wagon itself has been so badly damaged by the flames that Heldric is unsure if it is fit for travel any longer.

Kiril makes his way up the hill, joining Steeple and Anton as the two go to see the nobleman. At their approach, the nobleman turned toward the three and they were at once taken aback by his unearthly beauty. He wore an elaborate green robe of byzantine design. His extraordinarily long black hair was pulled back into a series of braids. His skin was flawless and as white as bleached bone, his eyes were uncommonly bright and certain, there was no doubt in any of their minds that this man was of noble birth, or that he wasn't alive.

"A proper gent this one." Prince Maurice says.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 20, 2015, 04:41:10 pm
Heldric gathers what little money he can then goes to check on his cart, he has little of value there but it would help if it were at least serviceable to pull the wounded. He has no intent of staying near the forest any longer than needed and wounded holding them back would slow him down, better to dump them onto the cart and move with speed.

He does however cast glances up the hill to see what he can see while he searches.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 20, 2015, 04:59:56 pm
"Ah," Steeple says bowing to the noble kindred, "Your appearance is most fortunate my lord. Thank you."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 21, 2015, 12:14:31 am
With a happy smile, Daniel thanks the nobleman politely. "Thank Caine for your timely arrival, kindred."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 21, 2015, 01:33:14 pm
"I could not idly sit by while fellow travelers were set upon in such a way," He says, with a gracious smile, returning Steeple's bow. "I am called Myca Vykos" says the nobleman.
 
Kiril, who was now making his way toward the assembly, and Heldric, who succeeded on a lucky perception roll, both recognize the name. He was a byzantine aristocrat of the blood of the Dracon, one of the founders of the Dream that was Constantinople. Heldric had heard that he had dealings in Romania but had never actually met the childe of Symeon.

“I daresay that, from the looks of things you’ll be needing shelter from the coming dawn. Please join me, I should have plenty of room in my own wagon, which I can assure you is well guarded from the sun. I do not know where you are headed but I can take you as far east as Bistritz before our paths must part.” – Vykos
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 21, 2015, 01:45:29 pm
Reflecting upon his own experience with lies, Daniel turns to the rest of the coterie and says, "He is sincere. I say we trust him and accept his aid. Together, we can easily repay this kindness later."

Then, adopting a darker tone, "Besides, if we arrive at our destination empty-handed, we won't have very happy consequences to look forward to."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 21, 2015, 01:47:07 pm
"That is a very gracious offer." Lucien says limping forward with his new cane. "Please allow me to introduce myself i'm a man of wealth and fame My name is Lucien Lupei, childer of Sandor, Vovoide of Arad (of the Bihor mountains). " he bowed slightly
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 21, 2015, 02:23:56 pm
"Steeple Carson Olaf Trevesky the Fourth at your service!" Steeple says, "It would be an honor to travel with you and hear of the your great exploits!"

"If you will excuse me a moment," Steeple then adds, going to speak with his maid Nadia.

"My dear faithful Nadia," he begins, "You and the boys have ever served me well, and you have earned the choice I now place before you."

"Things are becoming complicated... and I fear that these complications may take you away from me as they have Sebastian and Igor."

"So I offer you my blood to strengthen you for whatever is to come - if you accept it of course. The choice is yours. If you decline, I shall still endeavored to keep you safe as best I can."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 21, 2015, 08:01:41 pm
Anton bows.
"Your offer is most gracious, Myca Vykos." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 21, 2015, 08:22:21 pm
Having checked over the wreaks and found that most of the money had been stolen during the ambush, most likely a carefully planned operation by a powerful obsfucate user, he decides that he needs to be respectful to their saviour.

He quickly moves up the hill and gives a respectful bow to the man "Heldric, childe of Malachite my lord, if you forgive my inquiry I must say I knew you had dealings here but never expected to actually meet one of your stature out on these roads yourself?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 21, 2015, 10:06:32 pm
"It is my great pleasure to meet such efficacious cainites as yourselves. I assure you my exploits are nothing worth speaking of, I'd much rather hear of those of yourselves. Few cainites can say they have survived passage through the Prince of Napoca's domain, I dare say he was hard-pressed to hold you off."

The aristocrat aquiesces to Steeple's request to go speak to his maid , and the malkavian brings her aside. The Byzantine continues, addressing Heldric and the group as a whole, much more warmly -

"As I said i'm here to visit Count Radu on a diplomatic mission. Yes, i've heard of you Heldric - the one Michael's chosen sent out to further the dream. Your goal is a worthy one. What brings you and your comrades so far east?"

---

Nadia bites her lip thoughtfully. Her light hair is burnt at the edges and the dried streaks of tears shed over her dead friends are still present. She cuts a pitiful figure, that which could drive the Beast mad.

"Steeple... Are you asking me to spend eternity with you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 21, 2015, 10:26:29 pm
Heldric nods his thanks for being recognized before answering "Our company is also on a diplomatic mission to further the dream in these lands and to try and provide security in these more unsettling times. This battle has somewhat reduced or means though I assume Lords Anton or Steeple would be better placed to give specifics, my way with words is lacking by comparison."

The nosferatu does not like being the centre of attention despite calling it to himself in this case
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 22, 2015, 12:09:53 am
Since he's not much of a speaker, Daniel goes to the corpses of the attack. He can work with this. He asks Vince, "How would you feel about carrying a bit more muscle on your bones?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 22, 2015, 09:49:13 am
A Byzantine?  Here?!

Kiril, despite his love of all things from Constantinople, doesn't want to speak with the aristocrat.   It's humiliating to be so apparently helpless.   

Still, they'll have to share Vykos's wagon for the trip to Bistriz, apparently.  And Kiril desperately needs blood- repairing the bowman's attack has severely depleted him.

The Bulgarian steps forward and bows politely.  "A pleasure to meet you, Lord Vykos. We would be honored to accept your invitation."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 22, 2015, 10:37:13 am
With Nadia, Steep Replies, "I am, if you accept my offer."

Then with a more serious tone he adds, "But what I offer is not without a price; though you are familiar with my daily 'requirements'."

Back to his more jovial tone, he finishes - "But imagine all the adventures we'll have, haha!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 22, 2015, 11:40:41 am
Myca returns Kiril's bow as well, before motioning to the sergeant who headed his troops.

"Sergeant, have what men are not tired or injured from the combat line themselves up for our guests, they must be hungry after the combat they've just endured."

12 of the men get down on their knees in a straight line an move their heads to the left, baring their necks to the vampires. Should anyone need to feed, they can do so.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 22, 2015, 11:46:10 am
The maid spends some time thinking to herself.

"I..."

She takes a deep breath, as if steeling herself for what she was about to say.

"I think... I'm ready Steeple. Yes. My answer is yes."

---

Vincent answers Daniel - "I definitely wouldn't mind something like that."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 22, 2015, 11:54:22 am
Kiril will feed, it would be rude to spurn Myca's generosity.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 22, 2015, 12:24:23 pm
Steeple Ghouls Nadia, then gives her a hug.

"Welcome to the grand adventure!" he says, leading her to the lord's wagon.

When he sees the sustenance being offered, he hurries to replenish himself!

Once done, he turns to Heldric and offers - "Heldric my friend, you are welcome to use my carriage to transport your pet and anything else that you might want to keep separate from the rest of us."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 22, 2015, 01:46:09 pm
"Let's get to it." Says Daniel with a grin.

Daniel will attempt to Bonecraft some knuckle-knobs onto Vince's main hand (Right if he's ambidextrous) using materials from dead ghouls.

Daniel will also feed his ghouls if they're drained from the fight with his own blood. Then, he'll fill himself up with what Mycs is offering.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 22, 2015, 01:57:12 pm
"Ennius, feed." He tells his servamt he then feeds himself, claiming 4 blood points for himself.

He will then go and watch Daniels bonecraftikg with great interest.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 22, 2015, 08:39:13 pm
Heldric nods his thanks for the offer of food "my thanks for the offer but I am not so depleted, I fed as you arrived."

Then to Steeple "And my thanks to you, Mr. Whitey can be enjoyable company indeed however he is not made for long walks."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 22, 2015, 08:52:49 pm
Anton nods.
"Thank you, Lord Vykos." Anton states, as he feeds a bit and heals his wounds.

"As my companions have said, we are on a mission for Lord Radu. We are fortunate to meet another of his allies."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 22, 2015, 09:49:35 pm
Daniel does so, attaching the dead bone to Vince's right hand.

Of course, it'll just rot off in less than a week or so, and will probably rip off in an actual fight but Vince doesn't have to know about that just yet...

The vampires all drink their fill, and then prepare to continue their voyage.

It took more than an hour for them to salvage three wagons. Though they’d lost all of their money, half their party and a great deal of their own possessions, they made their way east in the company of the fiend…
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 22, 2015, 10:05:58 pm
May 6, 1198, 1:38am
The Road to Castle Bistritz
The Domain of Count Radu Bistri, Prince of Bistritz


The road east had been long. Their caravan broken, the cotterie spent many nights watching for another attack, while Sylvian spent a great deal of time in polite conversation with Vykos.

For his part, Vykos had been very patient with the Coterie. When they reached the next town on their journey he paid for their retinue’s treatments and even for a few repairs to one of the wagons. He even offered to purchase them new clothing for the trip - though the new accoutrements were of notably lesser quality than some of the higher-born in the group were used to.

It had been a full week since they’d been driven from Klausenberg. They'd passed through the city of Bistritz itself as while Count Radu, a rare Tzimisce who’d abandoned the Voivodate for the western Council of Ashes, did not abide the presence of unknown Cainites within his city’s walls, he'd already invited them to his lands.

Three miles from the Count’s lair a raven flew into the wagon, alighting on Vykos’ shoulder. He pet the thing softly and whispered to it, listened as if hearing a response, and whispered again. Joseph watched, fascinated, before the bird took off again, no doubt to return to the Count.

“The Count is aware of our arrival and will greet us personally.” – Myka Vykos.

“How did you do that?” – Brother Joseph

“It is not so different from the way in which you can command men to do your bidding, I am sure” - Vykos

When they arrived the gate was open, allowing them to drive straight on to the castle itself. As the wagon reached the massive doors they opened as if of their own will, letting the light from within bathe the vampires as they stepped out.

Two men stepped forward, one a few steps behind the other. The first man was thin and richly dressed; his tunic made of some fine red fabric that was most likely silk. He was in his middle years; his gray hair was short and curled. Over his shoulders was a thick fur lined cloak, as if to keep him warm on the crisp spring night. At his side was a mastiff of incredible size which sat patiently, looking up lovingly at him.

This was Count Radu.

“Welcome to my home, weary travelers, I know you must be exhausted. Please, enter freely and of your own will. You are my guests and shall be treated as kings. Tiberiu will see to your belongings.”

Radu bowed deeply as he spoke - well-mannered even to his underlings.

"It is a pleasure to finally meet you all, and in such prestigious company no less."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 22, 2015, 10:11:57 pm
Heldric steps out and simply bows to the count to show respect.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 22, 2015, 10:36:14 pm
Daniel makes a simple but respectful bow; he gestures to his ghouls to do as he does if they are with him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 22, 2015, 11:38:10 pm
Radu.. Radu... where have i heard that name before... oh well, i guess it doesnt matter Lucien thought to himself.

He bowed to Radu, slightly deeper than Radu bowed.

"My name is Lucian, childer of Sandor, Vovoide of Arad."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 23, 2015, 07:47:36 am
"Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your Service," Steeple bows with his usual flourish.

"What an absolutely magnificent beast!" he then marvels aloud, seeing the huge mastiff.

"Where can I acquire one, even half as spectacular as this?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 23, 2015, 09:04:25 am
"Steeple Carson Olof Trevesky the Fourth at your Service," Steeple bows with his usual flourish.

"What an absolutely magnificent beast!" he then marvels aloud, seeing the huge mastiff.

"Where can I acquire one, even half as spectacular as this?"

Upon hearing Steeple say this, Daniel immediately walks to the other side of the group away from Steeple.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 23, 2015, 11:39:10 am
Anton bows as is customary.
"Our task seems to have pleased the Almighty one, as he had seen fit to be assisted by Lord Myca on our way, Count." Anton states.
"I am Anton Petrov Veranin, childer of Basilio, Prince of Sofia."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 23, 2015, 07:16:13 pm
"Kiril Petrov Veranin, also Basilio's child."
Kiril bows.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 23, 2015, 11:47:25 pm
The Count accepts Steeple's compliment graciously - "I am sure some of my clanmates could provide you with some of their own work for the right price. Or you could learn the art of fleshcrafting yourself."

"You know, I think the rude chap would look very nice as a dog." - Prince Maurice.

Radu then looks to Vykos and embraces him as he would a long lost kinsman. Laughing, he leads the troupe into his great-room, a massive chamber with a large fireplace recessed within the far wall. The fire within was massive, heating the vampires' skin from even this distance. As he bade them all sit another servant appeared, offering each a flute of warm blood.

“Please, drink, it is an exquisite vintage. A mortal girl not yet sixteen and still as chaste as the day she was born.” – Radu

Ennius and Andreas accept, Andreas gleefully swallowing the whole of it in a single swig.

“How have your travels been? I see that your caravan seems to be much smaller than I was told it would be.” – Radu
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 24, 2015, 08:12:21 am
Steeple hurries to slam back the flute of blood.

"Our travels were not without adversity," he replies to the Count, "The Prince Mitruu ambushed us as we passed through his domain and most spitefully set all the libram alight! It was almost as if he knew ahead of time exactly which wagon it was in - his spies must be everywhere! They seem to oppose the prospects of us completing our mission."

"Also, hearty thanks to Lord Vykos for happening along when he did to send Mitruu packing!"

"But we won't be stopped!" Steeple continues, "I've already send to have my own personal resources brought to bare in the matter."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 24, 2015, 01:04:26 pm
Heldric accepts the blood chalice and considers for a moment "16 is young, but not too young and I am not feeding from her, the blood is drawn already. I cannot be rude again so this time I drink" He nods to himself then drinks, it is better to be polite to the count after all.

Hearing Steeples description of the fires he adds "I had assumed that there would be remains of our supplies but there were none, as if the fire was not ordinary or things had been stolen during the fighting. Luckily we did have some contingency plans and Lord Vykos' arrival was timely."

He then retreats, wishing others to take up the conversation while be observes.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 24, 2015, 03:06:25 pm
“Truly? Few have ever faced the Prince of Napoca and survived. You must be truly crafty to withstand Mitru’s arrows at all,” the fiend says, seemingly rather impressed.

"It was rather careless of you to lose all of the librum, of course."

Sylvian freezes at this - then resumes drinking, seemingly calm. Though his small gaff did not go unnoticed, no one makes any mention of it.

"It is good that you will find the rest of the funds yourselves, I've provided more than enough myself. However, I can assist you in some other way - surely you have all heard of Zelios, the architect?"

Every Cainite in the room had heard Master Zelios' name uttered. The master mason was a famed Nosferatu architect who had been responsible for the construction almost every single castle and vampiric haven in the Transylvanian region. His skills and services were widely known among the Cainites of Hungary, and oftentimes beyond.

Continuing, the Count says - "When he can be located he will be sent to the pass to help you in the building effort."

The two fiends then look to one another knowingly and Radu bows to his guests.

“Sadly, I must take my leave, as I have pressing matters to discuss with my Byzantine cousin, but I want that, since you are to build a fortification in Tihuta Pass, you’d like to have a tour of my own castle. It was crafted by the Master Zelios himself. Tiberiu will show you about.”

The Gangrel uncloaks himself from where he had been hiding nearby, and, revealing his feral visage to the others, steps into the room. Radu and Vykos slip through another set of doors that lead into the interior of the Castle.

Tiberiu bowed uncomfortably.

“Please, Lords, follow me.” – Tiberiu.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 24, 2015, 04:51:44 pm
Daniel quickly gulps down the chalice of blood that was given and ponders where is really came from; you can never be too careful these nights. Other than that, he says nothing. He will remain quiet until further notice because when you're in the house of a Prince... There are opportunities. Now is not the time to draw attention.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 24, 2015, 05:14:58 pm
She must have been an unattractive girl thinks Kiril, finishing his own glass of blood.  He doesn't particularly care about the castle, but all information is good information to have.  He'll follow Tiberiu around and see what can be learned.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 24, 2015, 05:53:22 pm
"Ooh, we get a tour!" Steeple beams, taking some parchment and a quill from his supplies to take notes.

Anyone looking at them, would see spiraling doodles and other incomprehensible nonsense and the word 'Sconces' underlined many many more times than practically necessary...

"SCONCES!" Steeple can't help but gasp loudly in awe, every time he sees one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 24, 2015, 06:08:08 pm
Anton drinks the flute, though the taste is foul in his mouth. The blood of the chaste shouldn't be used for servants of darkness.

He then follows Tiberius, not really caring about the architecture, but it would be helpful to learn about the Nosferatu architect.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 24, 2015, 06:13:13 pm
Heldric smiles politely and follows "A Nosferatu involved in planning another important building, excellent. I will have to keep an eye out for additions that are added for our clans benefit."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 24, 2015, 06:38:54 pm
Lucien eyes Steeple. "Will you please shut up?" He asked politly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 24, 2015, 07:53:29 pm
Steeple regards Lucian's politely rude request.

Then taking a moment to draw Lucian's portrait, Steeple nods and shows it to Lucien.

It depicts a long-haired stick figure with a huge frown and crying giant tears.

"See?" Steeple points to the portrait, "NO SCONCES FOR YOU!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 24, 2015, 07:55:00 pm
"Let me at him!" Prince Maurice cries, trying to goad Steeple into action.

"I'll show him the way of the true gentleman!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 24, 2015, 07:57:47 pm
"A lack of proper sconcing is penance enough," Steeple replies to Prince Maurice.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 24, 2015, 08:05:11 pm
Lucien slowly shakes his head while mumbling "Malkavians."

He will spend the rest of the tour looking for interesting insights in castle building.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 24, 2015, 09:47:35 pm
Lucien slowly shakes his head while mumbling "Malkavians."

He will spend the rest of the tour looking for interesting insights in castle building.

Daniel nudges Lucien and whispers, "I suspect he wants me to be his puppy. Can I stay with you for now?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 25, 2015, 12:33:01 am
"As long as you dont draw me as a stick figure." Lucien whispered back. "So, what are your thoughts on the fleshcrafted puppy?" He asked in a genuinely interested tone.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 25, 2015, 08:09:24 am
"I find that it would have made an interesting walrus." Daniel replies in a joking tone. "I want to give it tusks!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 25, 2015, 08:33:19 am
"Can you turn Barabus into a Mastiff too?" Steeple asks in awe, coming out of nowhere from behind the two Kindred to butt-in over their shoulders...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 25, 2015, 12:08:33 pm
Heldric stays a respectful distance from them for now, not far enough to be rude and not close enough to be involved. He is busy looking for secrets that his clan-mate might have left.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 25, 2015, 12:54:07 pm
"Can you turn Barabus into a Mastiff too?" Steeple asks in awe, coming out of nowhere from behind the two Kindred to butt-in over their shoulders...

Daniel's eyes turn into dinner plates with shock and then gives Steeple an irritated look.

"Yes. We can turn Barabus into a mastiff. Or a walrus."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 25, 2015, 01:04:31 pm
"Hmm..." Steeple replies skeptically, "A walrus seems like it would be pretty hard to pull off..."

"Tell you what," he goes on, "I'll bet Barabus to whoever can change him first - Mastiff Hound or Walruss! Winner take all!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 25, 2015, 01:12:15 pm
Barabus, who is not hearing any of this, continues following the group.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 25, 2015, 01:14:07 pm
While all of them had recognized the name Zelios, it was only Sylvian who seemed to be affected by it. He studied every mural, every stone and fresco as they walked the stone halls. At places he stopped and pressed himself against the walls or floor, as if he were communing with the stones themselves, muttering small hymns in the name of the master architect in one breath and sighing forlornly at what he might have done differently in others. He seemed to be sincerely heartbroken to learn that they were not to be allowed within the interior rooms of the castle, as he would truly like to get a feel for its heart.

Heldric's searching gaze finds no secret rooms or walls - though he knows they might be there, such knowledge would be the exclusive realm of the master himself. As well as this, the inner chambers and Radu's own, no doubt incredibly secure haven are very much-so off-limits to the cotterie.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 25, 2015, 01:15:26 pm
Prince Maurice whispers gently into Steeple's ear.

"Yes, turn him into a massive hound! Make him eat all of our enemies, yes, yes..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 25, 2015, 01:16:48 pm
"I know, right?" Steeple replies, "the old bugger would probably enjoy it too haha!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 25, 2015, 01:22:33 pm
Following Tiberius, Anton looks at the building with disinterest. It's beautiful, but beauty is pointless for a child of Caine.
"Lord Tiberius, what will the architect request as payment for his work?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 25, 2015, 01:33:29 pm
Tiberiu cocks his head to the side in thought.

"I don't know, I suppose a good deal of it will depend on how you treat him when he comes but he will likely ask for something of you in the future. You have little to give him now, but when you are princes your aid will be worth much."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 25, 2015, 01:39:09 pm
Anton nods.
"Have you ever dealt with the Architect yourself, then?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 25, 2015, 01:57:20 pm
Tiberiu shakes his head.

"No, the Count had that pleasure himself."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 25, 2015, 03:31:52 pm
Daniel would like to try and see if there any supernatural aspects to the architecture around him that was built by this apparently amazing architect.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 25, 2015, 07:40:26 pm
Heldric keeps an eye out for any possible secrets he still might spot but resigns himself to the fact that the master must have hidden them in ways that he could not detect even if they were there.

He speaks loudly enough for the others to hear him.

"We have a master architect  with our cause, and a capable one with us now for preparation. Once the resources can reach the site we should be able to begin immediately on securing the foundations."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 25, 2015, 09:52:22 pm
If the architecture has supernatural aspects to it, Daniel is not knowledgeable enough to recognize it. Everyone who cared enough to pay even the slightest bit of attention would see that the castle was as beautiful as it was practical - very easily defendable and yet admirably constructed.

After a few hours the large mastiff from the entrance appeared, as if oozing from the shadows themselves, before them. Tiberiu looked the dog in the eye and listened, as one might when speaking to a child. After a moment he grumbled something… not quite a word to the dog and looked toward the others.

“Radu’s business is finished, we have been asked to return to the Hall, he wishes to speak with you.” – Tiberiu

“May I speak with you a moment?” – Brother Joseph asked as the others passed.

“Ghoul?” – Tiberiu asks, giving the servant some small bit of his attention.

“How is it that you communicated with the beast?” – Brother Joseph

Tiberiu gave the monk a brief perplexed look.

“You simply must listen. Each who walks in the night is possessed of a beast, yes? The Beast whispers in your ear even now, why do you assume others cannot hear it or that it cannot understand the voices of others? When you listen to the voices in the night, don’t do it with your ears, do it with the beasts. You will come to know soon enough.” – Tiberiu

With that he turned and walked back to the great hall, where the Count was already comfortably seated.

“Wonderful, you’ve returned. I've decided to help you all some more yet in the task i've set you. While I am not so wealthy as to fully refund your coffers I can offer you a small sum, and an additional wagon with which you may make your journey without fearing the sun’s deadly rays. So, please, stay here this night, sleep soundly in my walls, and by sundown you will have your supplies and your entourage ready to continue your trip”.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 25, 2015, 10:00:54 pm
"Thank you mylord." Lucien said with a pleasing smile.

He then began working on the idea to actually turn Barabus into a mastiff/Zlachta
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 25, 2015, 10:09:49 pm
Thinking about it, Lucien immediately surmises that it will take time - and while it isn't directly necessary, a model would be highly appreciated. It wouldn't have to be a fleshcrafted Mastiff, just a mastiff there for comparison so that he would know what he was going for.

Maybe a week or two, some herbs to numb Barabus' mind, and the end result might have retained just enough of its mind to still be able to follow orders while still being driven insane by the more or less permanent, lengthy and insanely painful transformation into a hound.

It might be less work to just ghoul a Mastiff and make his own personal monstrous modifications - but where's the fun in that?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 25, 2015, 10:13:01 pm
Anton nods.
"You are very kind, Count." He states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 25, 2015, 10:49:34 pm
Kiril politely thanks the count.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 25, 2015, 10:59:20 pm
Daniel thanks the count graciously with a smile and then nudges Lucien again, "I'll help."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 25, 2015, 11:03:07 pm
it will be fun. He reasoned to himself. Then he turned his gaze back to Radu. "Do you have a messenger i can use? I need to send for some supplies. Oh, and would you know where i can buy a mastiff?" he asked woth a devious smIle.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 26, 2015, 07:45:35 am
"Thank you again," Steeple replies to the Count.

Then hearing Lucian mention buying a Mastiff, Steeple can't help but add - "I'd like to buy one too, if there are any non-extraordinary ones available."

Then to Lucian he whispers, "Let's up the wager - and see if a Mad Ghouled Mastiff is better than a Tsmitzi-made Mastiffed Ghoul haha!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 26, 2015, 10:41:23 am
Heldric bows while the others talk "Thankyou for all of your consideration" he sayS to the count before stepping back to observe the others.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 26, 2015, 12:45:30 pm
"Thank you again," Steeple replies to the Count.

Then hearing Lucian mention buying a Mastiff, Steeple can't help but add - "I'd like to buy one too, if there are any non-extraordinary ones available."

Then to Lucian he whispers, "Let's up the wager - and see if a Mad Ghouled Mastiff is better than a Tsmitzi-made Mastiffed Ghoul haha!"
Lucien nods to Daniel, if they we're two it would go faster.

Lucien then raises a eyebrow to the malkavian. "What more are you willing to wager?" He whispered back.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 26, 2015, 01:41:41 pm
"My Mastiff against yours haha!" Steeple replies to Lucian.

"If yours is better, you get to keep my Mastiff; if mine is better, I get to keep your Mastiff."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 26, 2015, 01:59:04 pm
"Im going to toy with your driver, as you allowed us to do earlier.The real dog will only be a model."

"But if you truly wish to pit them against eachother, i dont mind. As long as i get to use it as a model fist "
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 26, 2015, 02:04:10 pm
"Err... I mean, you make my driver a Mastiff and I Ghoul a Mastiff and we test those against each other," Steeple tries to clarify.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 26, 2015, 06:29:38 pm
"Fair enough." He shrugged. "Do you want to.. increase the wager?" He asked in a tempting tone.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 26, 2015, 06:55:40 pm
"Increase it you say?"  Steeple replies with a grin, "now why would I do that? You're already getting a free 'test subject' (Barabus) and only risk losing him if your work is shoddy."

"Why? Too much of a challenge for you? Don't think you can do it?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 26, 2015, 08:43:39 pm
Lucien smiles. "Because you like to gamble. Otherwise you would not have agreed to a wager you know you would not likely win." then he looked at Daniel, then to Steeple. "I know how to even out the odds a little. Let Daniel fleshcraft the beast for you. Make it into a warbeast."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 26, 2015, 10:47:57 pm
"Not a walrus?" Daniel says in a jokingly sad tone.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 27, 2015, 07:26:38 am
"Oooh, a Walrus-tusked Warbeast of Spikatude you say?" Steeple replies, "now that could make things interesting."

"But what does Daniel get if I win?"

"You get the W-TWBoSt if you win; I get Barabus Puppy back if I win; Daniel should get something from you if I win, but just a token prize really, as only you and I risk losing anything..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on February 27, 2015, 08:21:28 am
Lucien gives Steeple a quizical look "What... exactly is a W-TWBoSt?"

Then with a snap of his fingers he says "Daniel gets to fleshcraft ofcourse, that is his reward."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 27, 2015, 08:30:35 am
"Walrus-tusked Warbeast of Spikatude, of course."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 27, 2015, 12:14:20 pm
The count nods his appreciation to Kiril and Anton and the others who would thank him.

“My only request is that you do not enter Bistritz while you are my guests. I am not just their count, but also their protector and I take my duties very seriously.” – Radu

It's almost as if Radu can sense the upcoming conversation about turning people into walrus-dogs and sicking them on each other.

Then, to Lucien's request he adds - "I can bring you one myself, a gift to such a skilled clan-mate. When you wake up on the morrow he will be waiting by your door."

The Cainites, now free to wander the castle, are currently having the walrus-dog conversation. Those who wish it will be led to their temporary havens by Tiberiu or any of the mortal servants who walk the place.

Their new temporary havens are six windowless rooms each made of stone with heavy, securable doors. In each was a single sarcophagus, carved out of the same stone as the floors and walls.

Tiberiu has secured the cotterie's belongings and carriages in the castle stables.

Once everyone retires, the next night can begin.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 27, 2015, 12:30:03 pm
Lucien gives Steeple a quizical look "What... exactly is a W-TWBoSt?"

Then with a snap of his fingers he says "Daniel gets to fleshcraft ofcourse, that is his reward."

"As much as I appreciate the opportunity to practice my craft, I'm not a Tzimisce. I would rather have a Minor Boon as a reward should I succeed with Steeple." Says Daniel coyly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on February 27, 2015, 12:39:12 pm
Heldric thanks the count and nods to the others before retiring for the night, he lets Andreas sort himself out.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 27, 2015, 12:49:27 pm
"Ah, it is time I retire; See you all in the new night," Steeple says, heading to his place of rest.

"Huh... no doggies from the Count for us I guess," Steeple laments to Prince Maurice.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 27, 2015, 01:10:03 pm
Anton turns to Joseph as the count retires for the evening.
"You are interested in talking to animals?" He asks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 27, 2015, 02:27:05 pm
The monk nods.

"I... I find an wondrous simplicity in the beasts that roam god's kingdom, brother Anton. They cannot sin, they have no souls to be damned - they are innocent in all of this. Creatures of god, beautiful and pure, not dominated by the temptation that the damned so often offer us.

They will never go to heaven, no, but neither will they go to hell."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 27, 2015, 02:48:05 pm
"Ah, it is time I retire; See you all in the new night," Steeple says, heading to his place of rest.

"Huh... no doggies from the Count for us I guess," Steeple laments to Prince Maurice.

"It would be rude to ask now too wouldn't it?

Well, when we have our own city we can make as many dog-barrabi as we want. And we can make Nadia into a poodle!"

Nadia, who cannot hear any of this, walks along with Steeple as he goes to his room.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on February 27, 2015, 02:54:18 pm
"Are we the only sane ones here?" Kiril says to Carinus, when he's made sure the others are gone.  "Walrus-dogs?  A competition to make their drivers into walrus-dogs?  They're idiots- a disgrace to Kindred."   

He considers his companions.  "Maybe the Nosferatu, he seems to sensibly stay back and observe."

He offers his wrists to Carinus and Sherazhina to drink.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 27, 2015, 03:17:08 pm
After feeding Nadia again, Steeple use Domino of Life to give her a good tumble in the sheets as a reward for her choosing to spend eternity with him.

He sets Prince Maurice up on an unlit sconce to watch.

"OH MY! THE SCONCES! THE SCONCES!!!" becomes Steeple's cry of ecstasy.

;)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 27, 2015, 03:34:13 pm
"The two fleshcrafters take pleasure from unlife with juvenile obsceneties. They are excited by the ability to mold the flesh of others, it is a power that they possess over others, the power to shape them."

Carinus lets the blood pour into his own cup.

"They see themselves as creators, gods. Superior to the mere mortals, they do not realize that the predator that lives in them controls them as surely as they try to control others. Their Beast, their monsters. They have no self-control, they just indulge their urges, like children with toys."

He switches his own out smoothly and begins filling Sherazhina's cup.

"They pretend the power to shape others makes them gods. Scientists. Discoverers, men of intelligence and skill and innovation; but all they can shape is the flesh. The true creator shapes the soul, they own the body and the mind."

He passes the cup to Sherazhina, who takes it with a practised ease.

She raises her glass.

"To the real hunters then."

The two ghouls drink.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on February 27, 2015, 03:44:33 pm
After feeding Nadia again, Steeple use Domino of Life to give her a good tumble in the sheets as a reward for her choosing to spend eternity with him.

He sets Prince Maurice up on an unlit sconce to watch.

"OH MY! THE SCONCES! THE SCONCES!!!" becomes Steeple's cry of ecstasy.

;)

Steeple notes that while Nadia aquiesces to his offer, she seems rather distracted by how dusty the stone coffin they're doing it in is.

Prince Maurice cheers Steeple on, in some cases giving some highly specific instructions on what to do.

Barrabus just kind of stands there in the corner awkwardly. His initial cries for the two to go get a room being ignored, he edges towards the door.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on February 27, 2015, 03:53:36 pm
The monk nods.

"I... I find an wondrous simplicity in the beasts that roam god's kingdom, brother Anton. They cannot sin, they have no souls to be damned - they are innocent in all of this. Creatures of god, beautiful and pure, not dominated by the temptation that the damned so often offer us.

They will never go to heaven, no, but neither will they go to hell."
Anton shakes his head.
"Animals are but a step up from a kindred' state, brother Joseph. As us, they may be used by the lord to goad a man into repetence, or fueled by evil to tempt Seth's children." Anton replies.

"But they are God's creations, created for Man. We kindred may use them only to guard man from vice." Anton adds. "To learn, as Solomon, their words is indeed wise, therefore."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on February 27, 2015, 05:31:41 pm
Barrabus just kind of stands there in the corner awkwardly. His initial cries for the two to go get a room being ignored, he edges towards the door.

When they are done, Steeple notes Barabus with surprise. He genuinely didn't hear Barabus in his throes of passion (Steeple's throes, not Barabus's - though one can not even say whether Barabus has throes with which to toss around, but that is a topic for another day...) -

"Barabus?!? How long have you been there? What did you see?!? What you must think of me now!"

"But I don't care! You unrepentant bum-looker you!"

"Next time, give a couple some space, Sheesh!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on February 28, 2015, 12:11:03 pm
Daniel, content with where everything is going, concludea his evening by making his way to the lodgings provided. He let's Vince and Wilhelm do as they wish as long as it isn't lethal or stupid.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 01, 2015, 04:09:50 pm
The coterie retires for the night, each vampire resting through the day.

At nightfall they were each offered a carafe of blood. The wagon they’d been afforded was small but would make do, but the moneys granted them, while a small fortune, were not a fraction of what Radu had originally provided them. And so they set out, once again travelling east; to the very edge of civilization.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 01, 2015, 04:10:22 pm
May 9, 1198, 9:02 pm, One hour past Sunset
Tihuta Pass, Carpathian Mountains


The trail they rode to the ruins of the old tower was treacherous. By day the retinue was forced to watch as their wagons seemed to teeter on the edge of a mountain, knowing that one small slip would send them plummeting hundreds of feet to their death. By night it was worse, as they could no longer see the edge they were to be so careful of.

Lucien sat, terrified, against the left wall of the wagon, holding on to anything he could grab. He’d tried twice to escape the wagon only to find that it caused the vehicle to rock ever so slightly.

They traveled up and up for an hour more before finding themselves on a rise, their servants having already reached it and began to make camp. While Andreas, Ennius and Lucien hungrily celebrate the end of their journey, Sylvian has begun to investigate the ruins of the tower they were to rebuild. What he saw startled him as down below, beyond the trees that separated them from the site itself, were three torches. His eyes saw more clearly and could make out what looked like a grave being dug in the center of the tower’s foundation.

“Someone is here!” – Sylvian shouts to the others.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 01, 2015, 04:27:25 pm
Heldric quickly issues orders to Andreas and Mr. Whitey "follow with the others and be weary of attacks." makes himself unseen so as to as to be able to sneak closer undetected then tries to approach silently.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 01, 2015, 07:46:41 pm
Kiril heads directly down to the gravesite, intending to politely greet whoever is here.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 01, 2015, 11:38:53 pm
Daniel asks Wilhelm, "Can any of your Koldunic Magicks give you an impression of what's happening over there?" He gestures to where Kiril is going.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 02, 2015, 07:25:54 am
Seeing Kiril boldly walk down, Steeple activates Heightened Senses and Unseen Presence and follows after.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 02, 2015, 07:33:33 am
Anton follows Kiril down to the gravesite, after viewing the world in darkness. It would be easier to find anyone in the area this way.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 03, 2015, 09:58:12 am
"Farkijg heights." Lucien mutters to himself.

He slowly jumps out of the wagon and looks down at the campfire.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 04, 2015, 02:38:11 am
Wilhelm shakes his head.

"I have no idea what's going on brother."

Everyone immediately makes their way down the cliff face, most of them hiding.

As one, the group - invisible and otherwise - steps into the torchlight. Their beasts beg them to leave but the undead steel their wills against the Red Fear.

From inside the grave they could hear some sort of chanting, some dark hymnal in a language none could fathom.

“…Dodo, l’enfant do,
L’enfant dormira bien vite
Dodo, l’enfant do
L’enfant dormira bientôt…” – The voice from the Grave

As they approached, they realized by the sing-song nature the chant was some sort of lullaby, seemingly sung in extremely off key French.

A spray of dirt landed on them and then the song stopped.

From out of the darkness of the grave leapt a man; he landed not twenty feet from them, dressed in piecemeal armor and wearing a blood-soaked tabard. His hair was long, blond and filthy, lying in knotted dreadlocks. His beard was as long and filthy as his hair, but was also caked with dried blood. The man’s eyes were wild and blue.

The man dropped his wooden stump, which he seemed to have been using as a makeshift spade. Kiril noted the bastard sword sticking out of the earth not far from where the mad man stood.

With a jerk the madman swung his arms wide and began to bellow in french - which Sylvian quickly translates for the others.

“Blessed art those who come in glory to the place of revelations. Welcome, fellows; I am Anatole, seeker after that which was lost and which will come again into the hands of the chosen agents of God. Your coming is a sign that I have long awaited. The field is fallow, awaiting those who will search for the seed of wisdom buried deep within its hidden places. We must make all speed, for the time is coming when all will have need of words of counsel. Together we shall mark the signposts for the road to salvation!”

"This man is clearly wise and trustworthy!" Prince Maurice declares.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 04, 2015, 07:52:51 am
"Of course," Steeple replies aloud, inadvertently dropping his Obfuscate, but just folding his arms high and continuing to act like no one can see him.

He then goes over to look down into the hole with his heightened senses.

"You know what this place needs?" he asks no one in particular - "Sconces!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 04, 2015, 10:34:57 am
Anton glares.
"We have encountered far too many madmen on our journey." He mutters.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 04, 2015, 02:06:34 pm
"Well met, good sir," Kiril greets the man in Greek.  He's religious, obviously, maybe he knows this language?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 04, 2015, 04:16:56 pm
Heldric decides that after meeting the previous mad man, he was going to continue being safe and keeps his obfuscate in place for now, making sure he is a safe distance away but close enough to observe the others
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 05, 2015, 10:31:30 am
and another madman... Lucien thinks to himself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 08, 2015, 02:51:01 pm
Oh hell no. Not another lunatic.

Daniel hushes up and observes until he has more to go on than Sylvain's translations.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 13, 2015, 12:31:03 pm
When Sylvian finishes translating Anatole seems to grow confused - almost shy. He backs away a little bit and does not answer Kiril.

Anton, looking at the madman with Darksight, notices that the shadows behind him are so incredibly bright as to obscure his sight... the others see deep darkness. Darkness that begins to move.

The shadows open as a curtain might, revealing a young woman with raven hair, dressed for travel but bearing the aplomb of nobility. Even as she came into the light her face remained obscured by darkness.

“What are you doing in this place?” – the shadowed lady asked in spanish.

Steeple, meanwhile, carefully stepped closer to the grave that Anatole had been digging. Inside he found not a corpse, but a stairway, roughly cut from the mountain itself. The madman had been digging it out, and doing very well for himself save that he’d met a dead end in the form of rubble that must have once been a part of the tower.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 13, 2015, 01:05:06 pm
"Hmm... Seems that you need a bigger shovel..." Steeple muses - intent on moving back to his wagon to go look for one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 14, 2015, 08:23:06 pm
Anton looks bewildered, and replying in German, quickly asks,

"What is a Lasombra doing here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 14, 2015, 11:36:55 pm
"Frekkin foreigners, think i understand their weird language." Lucien mumbled to himself. He noticed Anton said something, but he did not know what he said either.

"Who are YOU and what are you doing here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 15, 2015, 10:28:24 am
"Instead of panicking, could someone translate this conversation, please?" Suggests Daniel in an off-put tone.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 15, 2015, 05:24:32 pm
“We are here by order of Count Radu, we are to build a fortress here. Who are you?” – Sylvian replied, as no one else was bothering to answer the question.

Anatole wrapped his arm around the lady’s shoulder.

“This is Lucita! She and I are here for God has decreed it be so for we and his most holy agents are to uncover, in this place, the ancient writings of such import that the world might shudder at their revelation!” – Anatole says, in reply to both Anton and Sylvian.

Steeple leaves the group to go to the wagon for a shovel - though he isn't entirely sure he has one, the villagers were supposed to have the necessary tools. Andreas could probably help out, the prodigiously strong Nosferatu could shift through the rubble with ease.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 15, 2015, 05:43:58 pm
Steeple returns with a spoon.

"I've got this!" he says triumphantlyt, jumping down into the hole and tinking it off the rocks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 15, 2015, 05:50:50 pm
Anton looks at the two.
"This land is Count Radu's land, fellow kindred. Anything found here is his." Anton warns.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 15, 2015, 11:34:44 pm
"More religious fanatics, I do not like this situation, though we outnumber them for now."

Heldric remains invisible and a safe distance away while still being able to hear and see everything that transpires, after the last madman they met talking about God he does not want to take any chances.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 16, 2015, 06:26:54 am
"Yes, who do you serve really?" Steeple calls up from the hole.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 16, 2015, 10:17:44 am
This will either go really well... Or not at all.

Daniel backs up Steeple's question if his capacity for language will allow it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 16, 2015, 12:25:12 pm
"Tell us more about these holy writings, please," says Kiril. 
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 16, 2015, 02:18:30 pm
Lucien nods at their reply. Then he will stare at Steeple in disbelief at the state of his mind.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 16, 2015, 02:27:47 pm
Steeple makes it a point to also ignore Lucian, not wanting to feel left out.

*ignore, ignore, ignore ...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 16, 2015, 03:51:34 pm
Anatole points towards the hole he has dug into the ground.

"These are not holy writings, no my fellow wanderer. But they are ancient texts that I have been charged with finding, hidden beneath the earth for centuries. They lie hidden in this dark haven."

Lucita, meanwhile, answers Anton's remark sincerely - "We ask only that we receive a copy of whatever Anatole is after, we know that this is your domain and we would not dare to offend your graciousness, but if he is right than who are we to argue with God’s wishes?"

Anatole appears to be getting edgy, like he wants to start digging again. He nods gratefully at Steeple's attempt to help.

"I merely follow my visions friend."

Sherazhina edges forward, and speaks quietly into Kiril's ear.

"Kiril - I believe I know what they are talking about. You remember that I told you that this land was my family's in the time of my grandfather? The fire that it burned down in... the land was taken from my grandfather in a great battle. He started the fire himself to keep his enemies from his master's library. I am sure it is still there. He said it was hidden beneath the foundation, hidden where no one but one who knows the earth itself could find it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 16, 2015, 08:25:15 pm
Anton nods.
"Everything that occurs is god's will." Anton replies in kind. "And, if, there is anything of value still here, I am sure a copy could be made."

"But it would only be given to a reputable group, as you must understand." He adds, insinuating that the two should introduce themselves, properly this time.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 16, 2015, 09:07:14 pm
Lucita nods in apology for her companion's antics.

"I am Lucita of Aragorn."

Anton and Kiril both immediately recognize the full name - this was Lucita, daughter of king Alfonse I of Aragon and childe to the infamous archbishop Ambrosio Luis Moncada, a powerful and influential Lasombra who holds domain over the city of Madrid.

Anton might hold some admiration for the archbishop, the ancient cainite being an avid supporter of the principle that the Embrace has always been God’s will, and through the instrument of the Curse of Caine, vampires had all eternity to do the Lord’s work.

Anatole does not seem willing (or perhaps even able?) to introduce himself any further, and Lucita shrugs for him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 16, 2015, 11:23:39 pm
Anton nods his head in recognition.
"Anton Petrov Veranin, of Sofia. It is great to meet the Childer of the Archbishop Moncada. His work in Spain has been a great inspiration."

"We would be glad to assist you in finding these 'ancient texts,' if they lie here."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 16, 2015, 11:36:12 pm
"If we did not have more pressing matters to attend to" Lucien adds with a annoyed look.

"Do not forget of our mission Anton. And do not presume you speak for all of us in this matter. if you wish to forsake your wish to your sire so be it. But dont be so quick to offer the rest of the companys aid."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 16, 2015, 11:45:20 pm
Anton quickly retorts.
"I am not forgetting our mission, Lucien. We were ordered to find the library all the same. Aiding the childer of the great Arch Bishop as well, is all the better for us  all."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 16, 2015, 11:52:41 pm
Lucien thinks it over for a moment. "Very well. We should have the time for it most likely. And its probarly good to have the childer of someone you think highly of owe you. And some Luny aswell..."

Then he looks at Sylvain."dont translate that last part for them."

Them ofcourse meaning the spainards
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 17, 2015, 06:36:24 am
Daniel approaches Anatole cautiously.

"Are you seeing anything right now?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 17, 2015, 07:43:36 am
In preparation for searching, Steeple climbs out of the hole and heads back to his wagon.

He invites Nadia to join him and goes through the Ritual of Incorporeal Passage - intent on using it to walk through the hillside here and there, in an attempt to discover any hidden chambers underground ...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 17, 2015, 02:30:23 pm
Lucien thinks it over for a moment. "Very well. We should have the time for it most likely. And its probarly good to have the childer of someone you think highly of owe you. And some Luny aswell..."

Then he looks at Sylvain."dont translate that last part for them."

Anton nods.
"If she truly is the childer of the Archbishop, assisting her would be certainly worthwhile."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 17, 2015, 03:30:36 pm
Anatole answers Daniel - "No fellow traveler, only the urge to complete my task. Let us not waste more time then, as you have agreed to aid us in our holy quest!"

The cotterie begins work on excavating the underground passage - except for Steeple, who, using a fine mirror with gilded silver edges, enacts the ritual of incorporeal passage, moving straight through the blocked stairway. Nadia is unable to join him, as the ritual only affects the caster.

It will take the cotterie and the two travellers several hours to clear the rubble from the entrance - so Steeple has quite a while to do what he wishes.

On passing through the rubble Steeple activates his Heightened Senses in an attempt to migitate the effects of the total darkness. He can hear his companions working outside, Andreas heaving and grunting as he clears massive stones and various boulders from the entrance.

The room is cold and damp, he feels that the floor is covered in broken stones and footing is treacherous in the darkness.

"Be careful, can't really see much in here old chap." Prince Maurice says.

"Perhaps you should set everything on fire." He suggests idly.

Walking around the edges of the room and counting his steps the Malkavian deduces that the room is roughly rectangular, about 40x20 feet. There does not appear to be a library here - at least as far as he can tell in the darkness.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 17, 2015, 04:24:55 pm
"I suppose a little light is in order," Steeple replies to Prince Maurice - taking the time to cast Will O The Wisp before trying to stumble around in the dark chamber.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 17, 2015, 05:13:14 pm
Clearly having had the foresight to bring a stick with him, Steeple summons small wisps of light after a bit of chanting.

The light reveals that the room he is in appears to be the castle cellar. It also happens to be completely empty.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 17, 2015, 05:15:43 pm
Steeple spends time tapping on walls, searching for secret doors, and singing show tunes (even though they have not been invented yet).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 17, 2015, 05:28:16 pm
Half an hour passes as Steeple laboriously searches the walls for hollow backs, hidden entrances and secret doors. He finds nothing after sticking his fingers in the many crevices the place possessed - despite all of prince Maurice's wise and intelligent suggestions.

About to give up and head back into the light of the moon to tell his cotterie not to waste their time, something caught his eye. The stones on his right seemed to be off somehow. Their mortar seeming to hold the dirt he'd cleared more than the others. After a few moments of pushing and prodding he found a catch in a low stone, which when pushed allowed the whole of the wall to pivot away from him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 17, 2015, 05:31:50 pm
"Ooh, Maurice! You were right! There really was a secret door along this wall." Steeple says, taking his rock out to bow before it's all-knowingness.

Then, tucking it back into his pocket, he moves the Will O Wisp in through the opening to see what's on the other side ...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 17, 2015, 05:38:30 pm
"Yes, worship me." Maurice says smugly.

The door led into another staircase, this one much older and much better made than the one it came away from. It led down fifteen steps into a large tomb. The hollow walls filled with ancient scrolls and codices.

Sending the will-o-wisps into the recesses normally made for candles and torches, Steeple takes in the room - and it becomes clear that he'd found the library. However, even Steeple's most gentle touch causes the texts he touches to crumble to dust.

“Bah, we dig for so long, and all we find some papyri so brittle as to be useless?” Prince maurice exclaims.

And that was the truth. Each scroll he finds is nothing but rods and dust. The few codices present were dry-rotted and faded enough to be illegible.

Examining the area, Steeple notes the following - the room was secure, and the cunning door easy to open from within. The room was dry even in this weather and obviously sun proof and would make a wonderful haven while they worked. It was just a shame that...

“That’s curious.” - Maurice, upon noting the following:

All along the library the walls were made from the same mud bricks. Over and over again, they were obviously cut from the same mold. So why was it that along the back wall on the bottom most shelf, were the bricks so much thinner? Where only six or seven bricks were used on the rest of that wall, the bottom row required twenty-five thinly cut bricks?

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 17, 2015, 06:04:02 pm
"Curiosity killed the Malkie," Steeple tuts.

Nevertheless, he is inextricably drawn to the strange pattern of bricks and begins toying with them to see if there is any way to open the wall there...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 17, 2015, 08:22:25 pm
Pushing on the center brick Steeple finds that the wall is sturdy - but the bricks to its left and right moved slightly, so slightly that a mortal might have missed it. With a push he was able to move each back half an inch, leaving the middle block bare. Gripping it he pulled to find that it came free easily.

Steeple's blood burns as he brings the tablets up, into the wisp-light. There are thirteen in all. Each weighs at least four pounds and each is covered in delicate and ancient writing, unlike any he’d ever seen.

"Jackpot old boy! Now if only we could read the damned things."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 18, 2015, 06:38:41 am
Steeple spreads the tablets out on the floor and closes the secret compartment.

He then returns to the surface to fetch paper and writing implements from his wagon.

"Dig faster," he says to everyone, "They're down there all right; stone writings. I am going to make a rubbing of them for you and bring it back up."

Steeple then returns below to make two rubbings of the tablets. A set for himself and one to take back to the Coterie.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 18, 2015, 07:01:51 pm
Steeple does so - though he finds that soon after he's done making the rubbings, the cotterie has finished unearthing the cellar - and the secret library beyond.

On breaking through Anatole loudly exclaims - "Finally, we have unearthed this cursed library!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 18, 2015, 07:10:43 pm
Kiril says quietly to Sherazhina, "found by no one but someone who knows the earth itself-- or some random malkavian, apparently."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 18, 2015, 07:39:28 pm
Lucien will walk off, and begin to turn Barabus into a dog.

with a smile.

"Ignore any cries of pain you might hear." He says before trodding off.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 18, 2015, 08:36:40 pm
Anton shrugs to Lucien's antics, and heads down the path to the secret library and Steeple.

"Yes, finally." He agrees with Anatole.

"So, steeple, how did you even get in here?" He asks
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 18, 2015, 10:49:52 pm
"What did you find, Steeple?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 18, 2015, 10:51:40 pm
Heldric follows along behind, letting Andreas do the heavy lifting. Once inside he will examine the stones to see if he knows the language
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 19, 2015, 07:28:22 am
"It's a little trick I learned a while ago," Steeple says, "basically you have to convince yourself that you are not really there - which then allows you to bypass what really is there, because you're not."

"Ah here we are," Steeple concludes, showing everyone the hidden chamber and the tablets, but not pointing out the gaping hole in the wall where he pulled them all out - I may have use for such a void, Steeple thinks to himself.

Steeple then takes the last two tablets out of the thirteen.

"We should all take two of these and keep them," Steeple directs, "Study what we have and the rubbings of all the stones. But no one of us should be entrusted with keeping them all."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 19, 2015, 06:56:52 pm
"I can agree with that; at least for now." Replies Daniel
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 19, 2015, 09:41:00 pm
"It's a little trick I learned a while ago," Steeple says, "basically you have to convince yourself that you are not really there - which then allows you to bypass what really is there, because you're not."

"Ah here we are," Steeple concludes, showing everyone the hidden chamber and the tablets, but not pointing out the gaping hole in the wall where he pulled them all out - I may have use for such a void, Steeple thinks to himself.

Steeple then takes the last two tablets out of the thirteen.

"We should all take two of these and keep them," Steeple directs, "Study what we have and the rubbings of all the stones. But no one of us should be entrusted with keeping them all."
Anton frowns in confusion to steeple's answer, but nods to the second half of steeple's point.
"Yes, quite. We must also make a rubbing for the spaniards. I trust these," he points to the 11 on the table and the 2 in Steeple's arms, "were the only ones you found?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 20, 2015, 05:59:29 am
"Are you all right with this?" Kiril quietly asks Sherazhina.  "After all, these are your family treasures. 

By the way, do you have any idea what they say?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 20, 2015, 08:25:15 am
"This is them all," Steeple replies, "but it won't hurt to keep looking around for more while we are here."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 20, 2015, 11:50:44 am
Daniel investigates the library for any more tablets.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 20, 2015, 12:32:19 pm
Steeple sits down and casts Wooden Tongues on one of his two tablets (using Willpower if needed).

"So, tell me about yourself," he says to the tablet, "What's the message you guys contain? Been here long? You wouldn't happen to be related to Prince Maurice now would you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 20, 2015, 03:17:25 pm
"Are you all right with this?" Kiril quietly asks Sherazhina.  "After all, these are your family treasures. 

By the way, do you have any idea what they say?"

"It is of no matter to me, this land stopped being my family's decades ago.

Daniel investigates the library for any more tablets.

He finds none.

Searching the library all he finds are useless books and scrolls and the gaping hole Steeple had left. He goes to the hole and pushes and pulls aside all the bricks in the gap in case they were more tablets. Beneath them was some ancient, petrified wood, which had been lacquered and was still, so many years later, quite smooth - but no tablets.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 20, 2015, 03:23:10 pm
"This is them all," Steeple replies, "but it won't hurt to keep looking around for more while we are here."
"I see Daniel took up that task." Anton replies.

"We will have to send word to the Count on our discovery." Anton then adds.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 20, 2015, 03:34:00 pm
The tortured tablet spirit's scream tears into Steeple's dead brain like a hot blade - the malkavian stumbles back in surprise, slamming into and rocking back one of the library cabinets.

The screams continue to echo throughout Steeple's mind until Prince Maurice banishes them.

"There we go lad, the voices are gone, it's just you and me here again."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 20, 2015, 03:40:38 pm
 Heldric looks over to steeples strange behaviour "Is somthing the matter?" He asks while checking the ceiling to see if it was some strange trap that had triggered.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 20, 2015, 04:07:46 pm
Kiril decides to ask Anatole if God has given him any insight into what these tablets might concern.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 20, 2015, 04:11:40 pm
"GREAT SCREAMING MEEMIES!!!" Steeple yells in alarm. He then shakes a finger at the tablet - "BAD TABLET! BAD BAD TABLET!!!"

In answer to Heldric, he simply says, "The tablets refuse to give up their secrets so easily."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 20, 2015, 08:17:14 pm
Meanwhile - outside, Lucien tries to lead Barrabus away to begin fleshcrafting him. Naturally, the ghoul's immediate first response is "What the hell do you think you're doing?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 20, 2015, 08:18:48 pm
"I've been given permission, by your master do fleshcraft you. You will become stronger, better, and more campatible for combat. And you, you do not have a 'choice' in the matter." He replied.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 20, 2015, 09:02:06 pm
Barrabus practically growls back at the fleshcrafter.

"And I think you don't have a choice here. Lay a goddamn finger on me and i'll beat your pale ass right back into the grave you came from."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 20, 2015, 09:21:12 pm
Lucien smiles at the mans reply.

 "Ennius, restrain him."

 "Do you think that it is wise to defy me Barrabus?  i know countless ways to make you scream for your mom to come save you. But alas, its to late now." he smiled grimly at that last remark.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 20, 2015, 09:29:01 pm
Barrabus looks more than ready to take on Ennius, extending his arms out with a ready grin and looking his presumed opponent in the eyes.

So it is some surprise to the ghoul that Ennius simply begins speaking - dominating the other servant.

"Sit, like the dirty mongrel you are."

Barrabus finds himself forced to do exactly that, and he drops down to the ground, motionless.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 20, 2015, 09:30:38 pm
Kiril decides to ask Anatole if God has given him any insight into what these tablets might concern.

Anatole shakes his head.

"If I had that sort of insight I wouldn't need the tablets."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 20, 2015, 09:40:17 pm
Barrabus looks more than ready to take on Ennius, extending his arms out with a ready grin and looking his presumed opponent in the eyes.

So it is some surprise to the ghoul that Ennius simply begins speaking - dominating the other servant.

"Sit, like the dirty mongrel you are."

Barrabus finds himself forced to do exactly that, and he drops down to the ground, motionless.
"See, that wasnt so hard was it." He said rethorically to the man.

"and a dirty mongrel you will be.." he mumbled as he began his work.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 21, 2015, 02:02:55 am
Carinus accepts one of Kiril's tablets, handing him one and looking over the other.

"I've never seen anything that might resemble this, these writings are unique - some long forgotten language, perhaps."

The cainites will find that Carinus' conclusion is fairly accurate - none of them, not Anatole and Lucita, or even the magically-versed Steeple, have seen anything closely resembling the tablet's contents.

Steeple notes that Prince Maurice seems to be behaving somewhat strangely...

"Ah well lad, suppose it was a waste. Should just send the tablets on to the Count, nothing there for us."

Such strange counsel from the prince, was the rock hiding something from him?

Lucita jumps in then - "Well if this language is truly so ancient then I doubt the last keeper of the library would have known it too well either. Perhaps there is a translation key somewhere to be found?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 21, 2015, 07:13:39 am
Steeple shivers at the thought - "They didn't get to you did they?" Steeple asks Prince Maurice.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 21, 2015, 10:42:29 am
Heldric begins searching the walls, floor and ceiling for anything that might be a key or markings similar to those on the tablet. He knows the others have searched already but it is always possible they missed somthing.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 21, 2015, 11:16:12 am
One by one, Kiril politely approaches each of the others, comparing his tablets to their own to see if anything can be learned from this.  Actually, he is using his eidetic memory to record the appearance of each tablet.

If Heldric, Lucita, or anyone else find a translation key, he will similarly attempt to memorize it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 21, 2015, 02:23:43 pm
If we're going to analyze the tablets, it'll be as a group. Daniel puts away his tablets so that they can be protected from being further touched.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 21, 2015, 06:26:57 pm
"What? No! Of course not! Who's they anyway?! You're not making sense Steeple!" Prince Maurice says angrily.

Kiril, meanwhile, is busy looking at and attempting to memorize the complex characters etched into the various tablets - though he doubts he'll be able to get much, even if he sees a translation key, if he doesn't spend an extensive amount of time studying the language itself.

Heldric's careful eye brings him back to the gap in the wall left by both Steeple and Daniel. Examining the lacquered wood floor Heldric finds that the wood directly beneath the center was raised higher; motioning to Andreas he has the strongman pull it out, revealing something swathed in dingy linen.

It was a disk, made of gold, larger than any two of the tablets and weighing as much as four.

At its discovery Prince Maurice falls silent.

On the disk’s face was a sample of the script used on the tablets, on the inner disk was another series of Latin characters. It doesn't take Heldric and the others long to not only figure out it was a key but to begin to piece together the actual translation (led primarily by Anton and Lucita)…

Thus, I set down my true visions that I may remember and keep to the path that I have chosen. Only I of us all shall know the truth and this shall be my shield and my spear. Most exalted shall I be in the time of the final days. Even the father shall quail before my might.

Let the lesser ones war one upon the other, each hearkening to the omens that I have foreseen. Fools, all! By my guile, they know not the actual signs, but merely shadows of the things that shall be.

Let the world tremble when I come in my might and majesty, for I shall rule above our father, above the mother who gave succor to our father, above the children of Seth, yea, even above God himself. Let the Reign of blood commence.


The writer left his mark, but the symbol did not correspond to any character found on the key.

With the hint of a tremble in her voice, Lucita speaks up - “This must never be made public”
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 21, 2015, 07:41:49 pm
Anton scoffs at Anatole.
"This is what drove you all the way here? The diatrabe of a mad fool?" He asks, incredulous.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 21, 2015, 08:24:56 pm
Anatole shakes his head.

"My visions would never lead me astray. These tablets, the message they contain, they are vital to us understanding the final nights sir Anton."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 21, 2015, 08:32:23 pm
"Copies must be made and protected so that is the knowledge is lost it can still be kept. And the key must be kept separate from the copies." Heldric says as he pats Andreas' arm in thanks for all his hard work.

He then retreats into the nearest shadows.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 21, 2015, 08:40:29 pm
Anatole shakes his head.

"My visions would never lead me astray. These tablets, the message they contain, they are vital to us understanding the final nights sir Anton."

"Your visions didn't lead you astray, they just didn't lead you anywhere, Anatole. Or we misused the key. Otherwise it's just the diatribe of a kindred who was foolish enough to imagine himself greater then the Lord."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 21, 2015, 11:24:21 pm
Anatole smiles.

"You refuse to see it, perhaps sir Anton, but nevertheless you and your comrades have done us great service - we only request now that we ourselves receive a copy of the translation key to go with copies of the tablets. But what will you do with the originals? These things were not meant for some Count to study, they were meant for those whom God has chosen and for he who has guided those agents... and Lucita."

Sylvian nods in agreement with Heldric and Anatole.

"We should keep the key ourselves. The Count only asked for the writings, not the translations... He will be here by the year's end to survey our progress. When he arrives, should he ask for the translation we will give it to him, if he does not, then he must not have need of it and it will be out of our hands."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 22, 2015, 05:51:13 pm
Steeple writes the translation down and of course a copy of the key. He then gets a fiendish idea and steps away to prepare Animate the Unmoving.

When he comes back, he casts it on the golden key in an attempt to have it re-arrange its own symbols enough to make it useless without what they have just copied.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 22, 2015, 07:24:05 pm
The key warps itself into a such a shape that its previous symbols are illegible. Sylvian grimaces.

"You didn't have to ruin it, it was so... elegant before."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 22, 2015, 07:30:04 pm
"I should be able to change it back if need be," Steeple replies. "But now you can give it to the Count if it comes to that."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 22, 2015, 10:13:12 pm
"I see no reason to hide it from the Count, but if you all feel the need, so be it." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 23, 2015, 12:28:02 pm
"Honestly, we should just send the originals to the Count. It'll show our loyalty in a pinch and only do us good. The translations... Well, what translations?" Winks Daniel.

Then, he turns to Anatole and Lucita to ask, "I hate to ask this of you, but could you bring this back to the Count?"

Now addressing Anatole, "As one of God's listeners, you would be most suited to the task since you can keep these writings from unworthy eyes."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 23, 2015, 12:34:08 pm
Lucita answers him - “For all that you have done for us we’d be more than willing to take the Tablets to your master.”
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 23, 2015, 02:26:20 pm
'I'm sure they would,' Steeple tuts silently to Prince Maurice ...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 23, 2015, 02:45:24 pm
Heldric looks around the gathering from the shadows.

"We are all gathered here and though I have a guardian outside I do not wish to be so grouped. I will begin examining the outside of the structure."

Once out of sight, Heldric uses obsfucate to remain unseen and heads out into the night to patrols the area and see what he can make out of the foundations. He will keep an eye out for any other 'guests' who may have appeared.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 23, 2015, 07:38:26 pm
There are no other guests that Heldric can see, the wagons have not been disturbed. Looking through the castle ruins he sees that they will be able to build a sizeable fort over the current foundations, after they clear the current ruins. Perhaps they should start delegating responsibilities now? Start sending in ghouls to fetch workers?

Or maybe just rest for the night? Dawn is not far off, perhaps an hour is left in the nighttime.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 23, 2015, 08:19:30 pm
"So, is that what we have decided? We should not waste more time on this matter then what we've already lost." Anton asks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 24, 2015, 07:17:16 pm
"I have no problem with our new friends taking the writings back to our patron."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 25, 2015, 06:00:15 am
"Indeed." Steeple replies and begins to cast Defense of the Sacred Haven on the outer chamber (while remaining inside the inner chamber, along its outer wall).

"Tomorrow is another night!"

Once complete, Steeple will flop down for his rest.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 25, 2015, 07:14:24 am
Once all other activities have been settled, Daniel will Earth Meld while no one is looking so that he can rest through the day.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 25, 2015, 07:45:45 am
Anton nods, and goes over to Brother Joseph.

"I must request that you head to the nearby village today, brother."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 25, 2015, 09:50:48 am
Heldric heads back inside, bringing mr. Whitey with him and relays his information. Finally he settles into a corner to rest with Mr whitey guarding himself and Andreas.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 25, 2015, 10:39:16 am
As he Earth Melds slowly, Daniel wonders,

I wonder where Lucien and Ennius are, right now?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 25, 2015, 02:39:34 pm
"Not the fruit flies again," Steeple mumbles in his sleep, "they never seem to stay lit long enough ... "
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 25, 2015, 03:09:38 pm
Lucien will continue for a while longer before Zzzz for the day.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 25, 2015, 06:10:23 pm
With a final farewell Lucita and Anatole began their trek back toward Hungary and the coterie set up their makeshift haven within the old library, leaving it to Vincent (who volunteered for the duty) and Brother Joseph to trek into the villages at the base of the mountains in search of workers.

Even as the dawn began to make itself known, a raven, larger than most, alighted upon Andreas' shoulder as Heldric speaks to mr. Whitey. Around its left leg was a small bit of parchment.

Unraveling it, Heldric reads the following - "“My friends, I bring tidings and wish you well. As I know that your duty has been made an unusually taxing one, I have successfully procured for you the services of the Master Zelios, the Architect who built for me my home. He shall arrive within the month.” – The letter was signed simply “R”.

And as the raven took to the air again towards the west Ennius slid the library’s hidden door shut against the sun.

---

Outside, as Daniel begins sinking into the earth for refuge, he hears a low, pained growling. Turning his head to more closely examine the source of the sound, he sees a horribly mangled creature laying helpless on the ground, only barely able to try and drag itself through the dirt towards him. It is in obvious pain, and is clearly not human.

It bleeds from where sharp branches tore through its skin and a small, bloody trail marking its path is rather visible. For the time it has been trying to move Daniel approximates it has moved perhaps 1 foot. It holds a twisted arm out towards the Gangrel, as the earth covers his vision. Were he still outside, he would hear the thing's despaired howl.


Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 25, 2015, 10:04:44 pm
OOC: Ignore my last post, please!

BIC: Seeing that the sun is rising and that he'll have no time to indulge his nature without endangering his life, he take comfort in the thought that this creature must be in extreme pain and Daniel safely and comfortably begins to rest.

Soon I will make you my plaything. One night; just not this one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 26, 2015, 05:34:17 am
Nadia, curious about the sounds, will take up a hammer from Steeple's collection of tools and go to investigate ...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 26, 2015, 07:19:06 pm

5th of June, 1198, 2:38am
The Ruins
Tihuta Pass


It had been three weeks since they’d come to the pass and things were slowly starting to get moving. In that first week Vincent, Nadia, Willhelm and Joseph had all gone into the towns and procured day laborers and professionals for the project. Steeple and Lucien (when not toying with Barabus) had spent nearly every night in correspondence with other traders across the blasted land, attempting to get the supplies and manpower needed with the little funding available. Kiril, meanwhile, was in constant communication with the leaders of the five villages that surrounded the sight, smoothing over any trouble they may have caused with their presence and making preparations necessary to start taxing the spice and amber trade that made the pass so important and still they were finding that they were coming up short, having long ago dipped into their own funds.

Anton and Heldric had worked in tandem in keeping track of the surrounding countryside, the knight and the spy driving off some wild wolves in the night to keep the construction of the pass going on without delay.

As the others worked constantly at funding, keeping and powering the operation Sylvian stared at plans that had barely taken shape. While the tower he’d designed was aesthetically pleasing and would probably stand the test of time, it wasn’t a fortress. Its fortifications were lacking, as were its accommodations. Though he’d never admit it to the others, he couldn’t help but feel that he was in over his head. And to make matters worse he couldn’t help but feel that he was being watched. He scanned the area multiple times and was sure that no one was there, and yet he couldn’t shake that awful feeling… and then he saw it.

It was a statue, standing nearly six feet tall. It looked like a man. It was maybe a little too angular, its hands, clasped in front of him, were perhaps too long, but it looked like a man carved from granite. Someone had placed it in the shadow of the ruin that was being knocked down and had dressed it in a tunic and breaches; they’d even found a way to give it relatively realistic hair.

Sylvian was more disturbed than amused and was even more so when the statue began to move.

“Good Evening, My name is Zelios, I have been asked to help in the design of the Fortress that will stand on these ruins.” – The statue, called Zelios, said in Romanian.

Sylvian balked, before him stood a man whom he’d all but worshipped.

“Master Zelios, It is truly an honor.” – Sylvian, bowing

“What is your name?” – Zelios

“I am called Sylvian.”

“Truly? I’ve been meaning to contact you. I have heard great things about your talents. Come show me your plans.” – Zelios

Surprised by the elder master’s words Sylvian was at a loss and could not stop the Nosferatu from looking over his work.

“Beautiful. You have a good eye for this Sylvian. Come, we shall bring these while you give me a tour of the foundations.” – Zelios, taking up the plans as he moved.

Sylvian walked with Zelios around the foundation, down into the cellar, and into the secret room they’d been using as a haven, all the while Zelios made notes on the plans and asked a myriad of questions, only a quarter of which Sylvian had ever thought to ask himself.

For two nights they talked as they walked the ruins. Sylvian learned more than he could have imagined in such a short time but found that he knew far more than he thought. His designs, though flawed, were good. The master made a few changes to be sure, some utilitarian, some aesthetic, all beautiful. And with each pen stroke Sylvian learned.

While walking together Zelios would occasionally vanish as they came upon a mortal or even one of the others when he wanted privacy. He would simply slip into the shadows and be gone until they were alone again. When he wished to speak with others he would step through a shadow and be revealed with warm pink skin. Even more than the architecture, this power fascinated Sylvian.

“How does it work?” – Sylvian

“It is a power that is ubiquitous amongst those of us who are Hidden.” – Zelios, referring to his clan’s old sobriquet.

“I can see its usefulness.” – Sylvian

“It’s not so hard. Next time you wish to hide from someone, or find yourself with time on your hands, stand so that you are not the center of attention. Stand in the shadows, or behind a table. Do not hide yourself; just think on the thing between you and those you wish to hide from. Make that thing the center of your attention and it shall be theirs as well. Should you succeed they’ll look at the chair, or see a shadow but you yourself will be completely unnoticed.” – Sylvian

Sylvian laughed and then they were back to talking about their castle.


---

In the meanwhile, Daniel, Lucien, Barabus and a poor hound have been engaged in a contest of fleshcrafting, Lucien spending nights molding the poor ghoul into a hound of war and Daniel doing the same with a beast of his choice. The resulting creatures are both rather fearsome. Barabus, though undoubtedly more naturally powerful than Daniel's entry, is severely hampered by his unfamiliarity with his new body. The contest has yet to be scheduled but at any time the two are ready to begin (or if they're just bored) the two fleshcrafters can sick their servants on each other for Steeple's amusement.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 26, 2015, 07:20:35 pm
9th of June, 1198, 12:41am
The Site
Tihuta Pass


Under Zelios’ Guidance the construction began to come together. In the last four days Sylvian had learned a great deal and it had affected him, but now it was time for his master to move on and that affected Sylvian horribly.

“Here are the plans, they are mostly yours, though I have made many small changes, I believe both of our marks shall be left upon it.” – Zelios, fondly.

“Thank you again.” – Sylvian.

Lucien, Steeple and Kiril, as the managers behind the cotterie's resources, are present. Zelios would not, of course, work for free.

The others are present at their own discretion.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 27, 2015, 06:53:50 am
"Excellent!" Steeple says, looking over the plans, "I can't wait for this to materialize!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 27, 2015, 01:45:30 pm
"So Master Zelios." Lucien began. "With the construction of the tower now started it is time to discuss your payment."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 27, 2015, 02:46:21 pm
Anton stands at attention, making sure to pay attention to the architect and the finance inclined minds. If they are going to agree on a payment, Anton wants to be there to make sure it is a proper one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 27, 2015, 03:04:32 pm
Kiril carefully observes the master architect.  Any Information is helpful, but he's particularly interested in anything that could help the coterie determine what Zelios might desire.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 27, 2015, 03:11:16 pm
“Indeed, though to have the chance to work with the master artist, I think I shall wave much of my fee, as he has taught me a great deal in the art of stone-craft, I cannot leave here without some form of payment, as should it be learned I may not be paid again.” – Zelios

Zelios, taking a scrap of parchment from the table at which Lucien sat scrawled something quickly and handed it to the financier, whose face did not betray the growing sense of dread that he had only recently become aware of.

The allotted amount was far more than fair for the master's services.

It also represented more than half of their remaining money.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 27, 2015, 04:02:29 pm
Lucien took a brief look at parchement.

Then he started to do the math in his head for the best way to pay Zelios and still get things rolling. In a brief moment he had come up with many alternatives. Servants and boons seemed to be the best choice of them though.

"Master Zelios." Lucien began with a calm composture. "Would you accept boons or a number of humans servants which i will ofcourse fleshcraft for you if you want them to be altered in any way, in addition to a even more lowered price?" He asked, attempting to persuade Zelios that this was a good idea.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 27, 2015, 04:57:19 pm
“I don’t take living payment" – Zelios says, shaking his head.

“I assure you I cannot lower it any further, should I do so any more more it would be insulting. I only ask that in the future, should I require it, you remember me with gratitude and perhaps should matters reverse themselves you may come to my aide.” – Zelios

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 27, 2015, 04:57:59 pm
Sylvian seems mortified by Lucien's unwillingness to simply hand over the money - no doubt due to his admiration for the master.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 27, 2015, 05:38:58 pm
"Ofcourse" Lucien nods at the man. Lucien takes another quick moment to think. "Since you are a artist Master Zelios perhaps you would be interested in fleshcraft? If you agree to split the payment to three seperate occasions with X months between them, then i could teach it to you?"  He offered.     


Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 27, 2015, 06:03:24 pm
"One moment fellows," Steeple says to the Kindred, "perhaps Master Zelios would like the golden artifact as payment or a portion thereof? I could even set it back up to its original luster."

Of course Steeple meant the heavy gold key to the mysterious tablet language. If needed he would use his magic to have it revert back to its original shape.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 27, 2015, 06:09:46 pm
The master's eyebrows rise.

"Golden artifact?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 27, 2015, 06:12:47 pm
"Sure," Steeple replies - "allow me to tidy it up first ..."

Presuming it is accessible, Steeple will use Animate the Unmoving to restore the key it to its original shape, before handing it over to Zelious for a look.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 27, 2015, 06:53:25 pm
Zelios looks over the translation key with great interest.

"Where did you find this?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 28, 2015, 11:17:34 am
"Um... Fellas. We should just pay him. It's not like we're hard for money, here."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 28, 2015, 11:28:23 am
Kiril politely replies to Daniel,  "There will undoubtedly be unexpected delays, issues with materials, problems with morale; we should conserve our funds if possible."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 28, 2015, 03:55:18 pm
"Oh, it's part of some fancy death conspiracy," Steeple replies in regards to the key. "Some real end of the world type stuff. You know, typical antediluvian drama really."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 28, 2015, 04:43:43 pm
Lucien wonders whats worth more, the solid gold thing or the cash that Zelios wants.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 29, 2015, 12:16:14 pm
"Money can be replaced. The Translation Key is an utterly unique artifact. There's a contrast of value, there, Kiril."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 29, 2015, 12:41:48 pm
"Bah," steeple says dismissively, "We don't need it anymore. I say we be done with it now. Maybe Master Zelios can even find more use for it than we did."

"This way everybody's happy."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 29, 2015, 01:27:42 pm
"Im sorry Zelios, Steeple is offering something thats not ours to give."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 29, 2015, 01:48:55 pm
Zelios nods understandingly.

"Of course, perhaps you didn't realize what you held in your hands. From my own research I believe this is translation key would allow you to understand old Enochian, the language of the first cities ruled by Cain and his brood before the flood. However you found this, it is best that you keep it to yourselves - many would kill for such an artifact."

Sylvian, flustered, exclaims - "Would someone please just pay him? He's being more than generous!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 29, 2015, 01:52:47 pm
Lucien glances quickly at Sylvain. "Tsk" he said before paying Zelios.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 29, 2015, 01:58:05 pm
"How interesting," Steeple replies, taking the key back and giving it a good looking over before tossing it a Lucien.

"Here old bean," he says, "Since you footed the bill on this one, you keep this little bauble safe from everyone trying to kill you for it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 29, 2015, 05:29:51 pm
Lucien just smiles at him. Then briefly considers fleshcrafting Steeples outher shell to reflect his madness of his inner. he quickly shrugs it off though, that would hafto wait.

"While we're honorbound of keeping it safe for now, you may take a copy of it should you wish it." Lucien said to Zelios with a smile. "And as for the matter of your payment we agree to your tidy sum."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 29, 2015, 10:16:56 pm
"My thanks for the offer", the master replies.

When Ennius returns with Zelios' payment the master again says his thanks, and begins the arduous task of creating a copy of the translation key for himself. He does so with the enthusiastic aid of Sylvian, working at it with the artist for some time.

When the time comes for the mason to leave, he does so with more than half of their remaining money and a copy of the key.

Even so, with plans crafted by a master, and an army of laborers, the money that remained should be more than enough to pay for the labors ahead.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 29, 2015, 10:32:12 pm
19th of August, 1198, 9:10pm
The Tower’s foundations
Tihuta Pass


Things had not gone as they should have. It started a week after Zelios had left, when an amber shipment was lost before it reached the pass. Lucien had been counting on it to pay the quarrymen. Kiril had been working from dusk until dawn trying to put the town elders at ease as it seemed that someone had been digging up their dead, two or three at a time, with no rhyme or reason to their disinterment. The workers were becoming fearful and working less as a wasting disease had struck their women when they came to visit. Some workers were leaving altogether, taking tools and supplies in lieu of payment and never returning while others simply refused to make the trek back up the mountain once they returned home to work their farms. None of this was helped by the fact that Lucien had been forced to raise the tax on using the Pass to the point that many began to wonder if those building the tower were trying to close it.

Over the next two months work slowly but irrevocably ground to a halt, the foundations had been finished and the lower levels had been completely excavated, with Sylvian personally doing stone-work within what had once been the library, which he’d turned into a suite of exquisitely appointed rooms for whatever Cainite would be master of this house.

Above ground only the stones of the floor had been set, with the exterior walls only half finished before they’d run out of lumber and stone materials.

On top of everything, they’d never once been alone. Even now Anton, Daniel and Heldric were out, hunting down the demonic creatures sent forth by a Tzimisce voivode who called himself Mircea, who held domain over Dzardrev Castle and its environs to the south. There were also travelling entertainers who would demand payment after their unwarranted shows, mendicant priests in search of alms, visits from Count Radu, mortal noblemen eliciting bribes…

All was not well.

Closing his ledgers Lucien went over to the coffers which were all but empty. With tomorrow’s bribes there would be nothing left to pay the men. Kiril and Steeple awaited him within the big tent they’d set up as their headquarters. He wasn't entirely sure what to tell them.

As Lucien made his way across the field he heard the telltale sound of brass bells coming up the wagon trail.

From inside the tent Steeple and Kiril also hear the approaching wagon.

Sylvian, who'd been working down in the library, comes up from under the tower to see who approaches.

---

Heldric, Anton and Daniel wait - perhaps impatiently, for the messenger to return.

They'd been tracking a pack of flesh-crafted wolves for the past three nights. The creatures had been terrorizing the villagers and dealing even more damage to everyone's already fairly low morale. The cotterie had received an order to cease their efforts from the nearby vovoide Mircea, and had promptly refused at the behest of Count Radu, who visited the group personally soon after the warning was delivered. Radu expressed some surprise at the vovoide's actions - they were on rather good terms with each other, it seemed. Or at least, they were.

There have been several attacks since then, creatures sent in the night to hamper the group's progress.

A low flutter is heard as a black raven flutters down to Heldric's shoulder. It caws loudly, confirming for Heldric that the things had made their lair within the cave system the group had tracked them to.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 30, 2015, 11:18:20 am
Heldric gets all the information he can from the animal before relaying it to the others present.

"I can make us unseen for the approach so long as you can move with utmost stealth. This might allow us to get close enough for proper combat though somthing feels off and I feel we might face more than the wolves."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 30, 2015, 11:25:09 am
Lucien sighs slightly. Altough thankful for a chance to delay the bad news by a few minutes it really was quite important to let the others know.

Either way, he now had this new traveler to deal with. So he walks up and approaches the carriege. "Who is there?" He calls out when close enough, but still with enough distance to get combat ready should he need it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 30, 2015, 11:48:49 am
"So, I say we go smite this Mircea bitch," Steeple says angrily, "Teach him to interfere with our plans."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 30, 2015, 12:27:34 pm
"It seems pretty clear that he wants the opposite of what our patron wants," Steeple points out, "So I say we take him out. It is the only way to stabilize the region, ensure a workforce, and enough spoils to see this project through to the end."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 30, 2015, 03:17:24 pm
Kiril looks at steeple.  "Are you- no, never mind, you're not speaking to me, are you."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 30, 2015, 04:29:32 pm
Steeple starts and looks around.

"Why that no good doppelganger!" he mumbles.

Then turning to Kiril, Steeple dusts his jacket off and says, "Of course I was talking to you Kiril old chap!"

"I'm just livid with the interference being wrought on us and its rather sorry effect on our work force."

"Again, I say we should do something about it and that something is sacking a castle."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 30, 2015, 05:01:31 pm
Heldric gets all the information he can from the animal before relaying it to the others present.

"I can make us unseen for the approach so long as you can move with utmost stealth. This might allow us to get close enough for proper combat though somthing feels off and I feel we might face more than the wolves."

Anton nods.
"That would be best."

"Soon, however, we will need to destroy the vovoide, or make it difficult to send its servants against us. Killing the servants will do nothing for us in the long run."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 30, 2015, 06:02:30 pm
Lucien looked out toward the sound as the others (presumably)stepped out from the tent, each looking as weary as he felt.

The wagon was gilded and highly ornamental. Its sides were an emerald green and its panels inlaid with gold. It was a wagon they all knew.

It was Myca.

He stepped down from the wagon with the help of one of his guards and immediately they noticed the change that had overtaken him. Whereas before his skin was paler then even theirs now it was dark, easily as dark as that of a Moor Kiril had once known when he'd lived in the empire.

“Greetings my friends!” – Myca called as he stepped forward, his draping robes flowing around him.

---

Andreas growls, and punches his own palm.

Mr. Whitey translates for the group - "Well what are we waiting for?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 30, 2015, 06:43:13 pm
(assuming we did Indeed leave the tent)

Kiril smiles with genuine pleasure at the sight of their cultured acquaintance.  "It's such a pleasure to see you again, but what are you doing here?" He asks in a friendly tone.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 30, 2015, 06:48:24 pm
“Oh, I was simply on my way back to Constantinople and wanted to see how well things had come along for you.” – Vykos replies politely.

Sylvian insists that Vykos move into the tent where they would all be more comfortable.

Carinus enters the tent soon afterward, carrying a carafe of fresh blood, the origins of which are better left unquestioned.

“Would you partake?” the killer asks, courteously.

“Please.” – Vykos replies taking the chalice he’d been proffered.

Carinus then pours some blood for each of the other vampires in the room, letting the five undead settle themselves in.


Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 30, 2015, 08:47:47 pm
Lucien nods thankfully at the blood that was offered to him.

"Now things are indeed quite dire." Lucien says before explaining how things are in the treasury.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 30, 2015, 09:58:54 pm
Quote
Andreas growls, and punches his own palm.

Mr. Whitey translates for the group - "Well what are we waiting for?"

Anton nods.
"Hendric, make us hidden." He states, and leads ahead to the cave, as he summons tendrils around his body.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 31, 2015, 05:42:33 am
Steeple politely declines any blood, but welcomes the visitors warmly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on March 31, 2015, 03:05:10 pm
Heldric uses his abilities to make the entire group unseen and signals Andreas to take up the rear guard as he is not so stealthy. He then proceeds forward, making sure to lag behind where he believes Anton to be.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on March 31, 2015, 03:36:33 pm
Of course, Kiril accepts the chalice offered by Carinus. He's a bit disappointed Lucien decided to skip the pleasantries- he would have liked to chat with Myca.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on March 31, 2015, 05:13:13 pm
"Dire Wolves," Steeple exclaims calmly, drawing a picture of a triangle in the air with both index fingers as he says the word - outlining it in a way - as 'Dire Wolves' could be spelled with a triangle, if one was close enough to Malkav to understand. Given that he only had one hand however, one could be forgiven for not catching the clever pun, as Steeple could only manage half a triangle in this particular scenario.

"Isosceles," he then winks with a grin.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 31, 2015, 06:04:02 pm
“You do not appear to be as far along as I would have imagined.” – Myca

Lucien begins to explain when Sylvian abruptly cuts him off - rather rudely, he notes.

“It’s because we’re not.” – Sylvian, his frustration showing as he poured himself a second cup

“What seems to be the problem? Surely Zelios said that you were well on your way to building the fortress, perhaps even ahead of time.” - Myca

Steeple then begins explaining in great logical detail that the problem is dire wolves, eliciting a wide smile from Vykos - until Sylvian crushes the mood once more.

“That was before we ran out of money.” – Sylvian, tipping the cup on its end.

Lucien then gets the opportunity to explain the full extent of their problems - the workers slowing down, the shipments being ambushed, people fleeing, the dug graves...

“Surely you will be able to finish…” – Myca

The Obertus was cut off by Sylvian's pealing laughter.

Myca looked to the others.

“Is it really so bad?” – Myca

---

Heldric cloaks Anton, Andreas, Daniel, Mr. Whitey, Brother Joseph and himself and the group begins moving in towards the cave.

Coming in close the group sees the scratches left along the rock and the lines dug into the dirt. The air smells strongly of urine. It seems the pack has recently settled itself in.

Shifting his eyes into black orbs, Anton looks into the now well-lit recesses of the cave entrance. He makes out four slumbering forms, though with his normally abysmal perception it would be difficult to be sure.

The wolves had always worked and attacked by day, when the vampires were asleep and the most humans were outside, they could do nothing until now to slay the foul things, only arriving at the scene long after the beasts had left.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 31, 2015, 06:29:17 pm
"So, how are we going to do this? We have the advantage so let's make it count." Whispers Daniel as silently as possible to the others.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on March 31, 2015, 06:34:20 pm
Though he nearly forfeits his own protection, Daniel's whisper passes through without breaking the fragile invisibility offered by Heldric's powers.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on March 31, 2015, 06:52:00 pm
Anton doesn't reply, but quickly summons darkness onto the ground to stifle the group's sound (also make it harder for them to drop the obfuscate, hopefully), and begins to slowly move forward to the wolves.

He'll also raise dark steel tentacles onto the walls, near the wolves, which, if he manages to summon 4 of them, will attempt to grab the sleeping wolves.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on March 31, 2015, 09:08:26 pm
Bah, fark it.

Daniel changes into a grizzly bear form as quietly as he can. He'll take his time since we they're sleeping and we're preparing.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on March 31, 2015, 11:13:09 pm
"They are." Lucien replies gravely. "On a brighter note Daniel, Anton and Heldric are out hunting the fleshcrafted wolfs, so i guess we got going for us, which is nice." He adds with a beaming smile, trying to encourage the people present in the tent."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 01, 2015, 03:30:30 pm
His brow furrowed, Myca called to one of his guard and, with a gesture the guard bowed and turned hastily retrieving something from Myca’s wagon.

“I cannot sit by while my allies are in danger. I have heard of what happens when one fails Count Radu and his vassals. The stories of his childe Marelle...” – Vykos

The Guard returned carrying a green and gold chest which, when opened, revealed a great deal of gold.

“Take this, I assure you that it will more than cover your losses and very well may carry you through to the end of your endeavor.” – Myca

Sherazhina, sitting in the room by Kiril's side, immediately furrows her brow.

---

The shadows within the cavern begin to twist and shift, clouds of pure sentient darkness emerge from some dark abyss and hover in the air around the five ambushers. All in the group save brother Joseph and brother Anton have chills sent down their spine - while Heldric, Andreas and Daniel had been travelling in the company of the shadow workers for some time, they were still not used to the eerie command they had over whatever unknown force emerged from the shadows. Mr. Whitey especially tries to scuttle out of the way of the emerging darkness.

Daniel begins his smooth transition into the form of a bear, his flesh and bones moving fluidly, the whole process greatly assisted by his skill in the terrible art of vicissitude, his ability to shape his flesh without even needing to look at it.

Heldric hangs back near the edge of the cave's entrance. Skilled as he might be, the Nosferatu preferred not to be the center of attention - especially when the center of attention gets brutally mauled by a pack of fleshcrafted wolves. Andreas, on the other hand, is more than eager to take his place....

Summoning dark wisps out of the cave, Anton has four irridescent tendrils rise out near the wolves. Andreas crouches low, prepared to spring once Anton announces the attack. Mr. Whitey remains near his master, ready to defend him.

Brother Joseph holds his cross through his woolen cloak, and silently mouths a prayer, holding the plain longsword by the hilt and kissing it shortly after finishing.

The stage is set...

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 01, 2015, 04:05:59 pm
Anton raises his arm foward, sending the stifling darkness towards the Wolves, and then makes a fist, controlling the dark steel darkness into attempts to grab the sleeping wolves.

"Eliminate them." He then orders, losing his obfuscate in the process.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 01, 2015, 04:22:01 pm
"Your help is exceedingly generous," Steeple tells Myca, receiving the chest.

"Please, that we may better understand the great debt we owe thee - what is the story of Marelle?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 01, 2015, 05:35:20 pm
Daniel waits for one of the wolves to be grappled by the tentacles and then charges the trapped wolf with the intention to destroy. If Daniel has a moment to aim, he'll aim at the wolf who's taken the most damage so far should the tentacles damage them to begin with.

He'll also spend two blood points to buff his Strength and a Willpower Point to help land his attack.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 01, 2015, 05:45:16 pm
"She is more commonly known as the sculptor of wolves, for her preferred ghouls are wolves and she crafts bizarre deformities for them, often combining the skeletons and organs of several at once. Lupine kinfolk are treasured above all, for the torment of transformation instills the taint of corruption in them.

She began her life as a Danislav revenant in northeastern Transylvania. She was a skilled manipulator and advisor, taking great pleasure in pitting the local knezi against one another and thriving in political strife. She was eventually invited to Radu's court to advise him concerning a dispute with a Gangrel.

Wolves served this Gangrel beast as bodyguards, and they had begun to prey on the humans not far from Bistritz. Many infants were stolen away in the night, and some daring packs would run through the streets of the city, causing mayhem. Soon they began to seek out Radu's havens.

Roused from his daily slumber by the troublesome lupines, the Count took this offense as a declaration of war.

Marelle stalked this Gangrel in the forest outside Bistritz to ascertain the cause of his grievance. What she discovered alarmed her. The Cainite was found conferring with Arnulf - He is a powerful Inconnu known for his hatred of the larger cities of Transylvania and the Cainites who encourage their growth.The situation became obvious: The wolves were scouts for some larger campaign against the city. Wise to the threat, Radu Embraced Marelle as his childe. Certain that she would be a staunch ally against the enemies of his domain, he set her against the Inconnu's servant. Her ruthless response to the Gangrel assault was impressive. Marelle was fanatical about destroying the Gangrel that threatened her sire from the moment she clawed her way from the grave.

She began with simple warnings: Canine servants were found grafted together in twos and threes around towering pine trees. As the warnings continued, her "messages" became grislier. The Gangrel relented, but Marelle did not.

When she at last hunted down the Gangrel, she fleshcrafted him into a monster and caused him to be devoured by his own Lupine servants. Marelle became so bestial that Radu could no longer stand the sight of her. She enjoyed tormenting other living things and when she abducted a human infant for one of her studies, Radu, perhaps the most diplomatic of my already so courteous clan, captured his childe, informing her that he had disowned her and that she would be banished from his lands. Were she to ever return, he would destroy her.

This might not be unacceptable in and of itself, save for where Radu banished her. Marelle was sacrificed to the Cathedral of Flesh."

"The what?" Ennius asks, perhaps a little too loudly, in confusion.

Every other Cainite in the room knows of the Cathedral - a massive monument of living and unliving ghouled and blood bound flesh constructed by the primeval methuselah Yorak, current Vovoide of Vovoides among the Tzimisce.

---

As Anton speaks the wolves begin to wake - but it is too late for them, the tendrils have already wrapped around their legs and chests, holding them in place, crushing them. Their howls are muffled by the shadows.

Daniel moves forward and tears one of the wolves to pieces, Andreas does much the same, seemingly trying to beat Daniel at his own game in how horribly they could execute the dread beasts.

Joseph walks slowly and silently to one of the wolves, cowed in the dark, and closes his eyes. He makes two strikes with his longsword - with a precision and degree of efficiency that greatly surprises Anton - and another wolf dies.

There remains only one of the fleshcrafted beasts.

Worry gnaws at the back of Heldric's mind. This feels too easy.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 01, 2015, 05:52:44 pm
Kiril wonders what Sherazhina is worried about. Of course, it would be impolite to ask her right in front of Myca. He makes a mental note to find out at the earliest possible convenience.

"Thank you," he says to Myca.  "For the funding and the history lesson.  Is there something we can offer you in return?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 01, 2015, 05:53:50 pm
“No, I would not hear of it. You would not have to remunerate me for a single penny.” Vykos replies rather quickly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 01, 2015, 08:58:11 pm
Heldric moves outside of the cave as stealthily as possible, if this was a trap then there was either somthing very deadly hiding in the cave or the real enemy was outside ready to strike. The inside could be left to the combatants, he would silently assess the outside first and check for any signs of a trap.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 01, 2015, 09:50:37 pm
With a wave of his hands, Anton attempts to slam the wold into the wall with his tentacles.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 01, 2015, 10:18:21 pm
As Anton handles the last wolf, Daniel looks around the cave to see if there's anything they missed or not seeing at the moment.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 01, 2015, 10:44:36 pm
The last wolf struggles against the tendrils until it is so worn and torn that it cannot fight back anymore. The beast lies limp in the grip of Anton's shadows.

---

Outside, Heldric hears the sounds of battle dying down as the last wolf is slain. He examines the outside of the cave carefully, running his fine eye over the area to see if there was anything they'd missed.

He notices the fifth wolf only because of the gleam its eyes give. Two small pinpoints of red light, coming from a darkened collection of brush. It stares carefully at the entrance of the cave - seemingly not having noticed the Nosferatu.

---

Inside, Andreas claps loudly and exclaims approval through various rough laughter. Daniel, meanwhile, looks around the cave. His gaze is rather eerie, as his bear eyes turn red to better see through the darkness.

However Daniel finds that he dos not need to search for anything, because all of a sudden, many pairs of red eyes appear around them...

Five more wolves now, all surrounding the vampires, appearing as if from nowhere, each more twisted than the last. They do not attack, they merely wait.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 02, 2015, 04:50:06 am
"The cathedral of flesh.." Lucien began "is a massive construct of living and unliving flesh, crafted togheter by the vovoides vovoide, Yorak. A primeval methuselah."


Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 02, 2015, 05:33:57 am
"You don't say?" Steeple replies to Lucien, wondering how Lucien read his mind word for word like that ...

"Have you tried moisturizer?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 02, 2015, 08:31:45 am
Lucien glances at Steeple, raises a eyebrow at the malkavian. Then smiles briefly. Probarly imaging fleshcrafting the malky with breasts just for the fun of it.

"And why would i need that Steeple?" he asked, realising to late he were probarly going to regret that.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 02, 2015, 09:03:00 am
"Ah Yorak, I knew him well," Steeple recites, miming the holding of a skull in his hand, whilst wondering what it would be like to have Lucian fleshcraft him a set of boobs.

"RACK EM UP BOYS!" Steeple blurts out and snickers at his own thoughts.

He then calms down and smiles politely, after a quick cough.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 02, 2015, 09:40:44 am
"and this is why Malkavians are mostly ignored in social gatherings." Lucien said mostly to himself with a grin.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 02, 2015, 09:41:57 am
'Mmm... boobs... hehehe... Steeple thinks to himself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 02, 2015, 09:53:28 am
Anton looks around at the wolves, and quickly draws the darkness back towards the wolves, as he again attempts to send his tentacles against the wolves.

He'll also take the time to attempt to dodge the wolves attacks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 02, 2015, 05:09:59 pm
Lucien just shakes his head at Steeple's antics.

"Ennius, the chest." He gestures at the chest of coins steeple received. "May i enquire of how much the chest contains?" Lucien asked with a thoughtful look on his fabulous face. "would make it easier for me when calculating later." He smiled at him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 02, 2015, 08:25:15 pm
Heldric moves at an angle in order to draw close to the wolf while never passing directly in front of its eyes. His intent is to move close as stealthily as possible, first ensuring that there are not others beside it before finally drawing close enough to lash out with a punch to the eyes using his spiked gloves in an attempt to blind it before leaping back and signalling Mr. Whitey to rush it and bite down on it to restrict movements.

Having revealed himself it won't matter if he speaks so he shouts "More enemies outside!" To alert those in the cave.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 02, 2015, 11:03:55 pm
"Of course, perhaps we should wait for your companions to return before you accept? I have no doubt they will do so, but it is best to have them be well-informed of the decision." Vykos adds politely.

Vykos then informs Lucien - the amount is just about what they need to finish building the castle, maybe even more if things go their way.

---

Heldric sneaks up on the monstrous wolf obscured by the brush and prepares to strike, quickly and surely. He is quite certain there are no others behind it.

He drives the spiked fist into the wolf's eye out of nowhere, obliterating the left half of it's face and knocking it to the ground - he smiles in satisfaction. There is no way the creature could still be alive after a blow like that. Mr. whitey scuttles over to the body rapidly and rips open the thing's stomach, eviscerating it. The crocodile begins to feast on the creature's innards with uncharacteristic enthusiasm.

As Heldric stares, however, he notices something - the creature... is not a wolf.

The horribly mutilated girl turns her gaze onto the crocodile and then her head falls back, as she is seemingly rendered unconscious by her wounds.

Some of her massive massive injuries seem to be healing, perhaps to Heldric's surprise.

---

Inside the cave, everyone hears Heldric's shout of warning, though if they pay it any mind is a totally different question.

Anton immediately takes the initiative in the attack, sending out his clouds towards the wolves. His current tendrils are unavailable to attack the wolves (being too far away) but he makes up for this by summoning more - in fact, exactly four appear out of the darkness around the wolves and again lash out at the beasts, though three manage to jump out of the way, one is hit rather hard, the shadow snapping the wolf's back with an audible crack.

Then things take an abrupt turn for the worse.

The wolf howl in unison and charge. Two go immediately for Daniel, and tear with viciously painful claws at his flesh and hide.

Another leaps onto Andreas' back, knowing the powerful fighter to the ground where the wolf began using it's claws like a dog does when digging (except on Andreas' back). The Nosferatu howls in pain as bits of his flesh go flying.

Anton himself is bullrushed, and is left with a gaping wound in his stomach from where the wolf clawed at him before running out of melee range.

Andreas pushes himself off the ground with an epic push-up, throwing the wolf off of him before be kicks the stunned beast square in the face, shattering its entire skull and spreading large fragments of bone and brain across the cave floor.

Brother Joseph, alone untouched in the fighting, nears the wolf who attacked Anton. He throws aside the sword and holds onto the beast, wrapping his arms, hunching over and then also wrapping his legs around its neck, temporarily holding it down.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 02, 2015, 11:21:41 pm
Anton clenches his teeth, making no audible grunt from the pain. He has an image he must project, and a small wound like that should be meaningless.

He quickly orders the tentacles to strike at the remaining wolves, if they can reach, as he draws his saber and quickly begins to slash at the wolf Brother Joseph is grappling, aiming to kill it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 02, 2015, 11:58:51 pm
Heldric quickly commands Mr. Whitey to stop feeding on the things innards and inspects her to try and ascertain what the Girl is. While the does this he has Mr. Whitey use his weight to pin her down and does what he can to tie her arms and legs using whatever is at hand, ripping his shirt if needed to make some strips (what use is nice looking clothing is the face looks like mine)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 03, 2015, 09:45:22 am
Daniel spends four blood points to heal up and focuses on dodging attacks until further notice. No point in fighting if you're Mauled, after all.

He'll also spend one Temporary Willpower to help his dodging.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 03, 2015, 10:20:49 am
"We've been having trouble with grave robbers," Steeple says, "Do you think it is connected with wolf-chick?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 03, 2015, 10:35:41 am
Kiril, who was just about to redirect the conversation to something civilized, sighs inwardly. Surely someone as cultured and refined as Myca has better things to discuss than grave robbers.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 03, 2015, 12:24:55 pm
"Marelle? For what possible reason would she be here?" Vykos asks, surprised at Steeple's question.

---

Mr. Whitey does, indeed, stop eating the thing's innards - though it does so before Heldric ever commanded it.

As he goes to inspect her, ordering Mr. Whitey to pin her down, Mr. Whitey abruptly turns on Heldric and bites his leg, viciously jerking his head sideways! Caught off-guard by his loyal crocodile's sudden attack, Heldric is thrown off his feet, landing hard on his back.

---

Anton's tendrils strike out at the wolves, who group up at the center of the cave in order to avoid getting caught by the deadly darkness.

Anton himself moves to attack the wolf who Joseph has grappled - only to have Joseph scream out loudly and hoarsely at Anton.

"NO!" he says, angrily. Anton is almost stunned by the ghoul's loud command. Never before had brother Joseph shown such ferocity. Does he go forward with his attack?

Daniel finds himself unable to heal his aggravated wounds.

(You may review your actions before I continue here)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 03, 2015, 03:43:44 pm
"Who can understand the mind of a malkavian" Lucien replied to Vykos. "On a more serious note, the others are not here. They are out hunting a pack of fleshcrafted wolfes that have been feeding on the workers. They left two days ago and we are uncertain of when to expect them back. So, i accept on their behalf aswell."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 03, 2015, 04:20:28 pm
Anton furrows his brow, but turns away from the wolf and towards the remaining three. He'll have to have a talk with the monk later.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 03, 2015, 05:48:56 pm
"You really don't see the connection here Lucian old boy?" Steeple asks. "Tsk tsk."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 03, 2015, 06:53:25 pm
Heldric quickly rolls back and casts vanish from the minds eye as he Begins to stealthily circle around and burns 2 blood for healing.

"she must have either dominated it or used animalism. This situation isn't so good now" he thinks as he carefully circles around to put the girls body between him and Mr. Whitey. He keeps an eye on her healing rate and prepares to dodge incoming attacks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 03, 2015, 07:02:18 pm
OOC: Whoops! hehe... Please ignore that last one. Forgot what the *'s meant!

BIC: Daniel spends three blood points to become a bird and bails. He isn't going to die over this.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 03, 2015, 08:34:46 pm
"You really don't see the connection here Lucian old boy?" Steeple asks. "Tsk tsk."
"what is there to understand?" he asked rhetoricly. "Did you not hear for yourself she is now part of the cathedral of flesh?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 03, 2015, 10:48:25 pm
Myca smiles.

"Very well."

Myca then reaches into the folds of his robe and reveals a small gold ring. It looked to be two dragons, their bodies entwined, their eyes gleaming emeralds. With a twist the two dragons disentangled, each a distinct and finely crafted piece in its own right.

“For my aid I ask only this - take this ring. Should I ever have need of your help I shall send its twin.”

---

Heldric rolls away from Mr. Whitey and then vanishes into thin air - but Mr. Whitey doesn't look fooled. The albino crocodile scans the area carefully, searching for Heldric while staying close to the girl's body.

Then the crocodile abruptly changes tactics. It darts at a fallen log and struggles fearsomely to force its head and the upper half of its body under the log, pushing itself as far as possible.

Then Mr. Whitey goes still and the girl stands. The rest of her wounds heal, her bestial face retakes its original shape.

---

Anton attacks one of the wolves killing Daniel, driving the blade deep into its side and then twisting it in, ripping apart the internal organs.

The wolf jerks around and then strikes at Anton, its sharp claws tearing through armor and undead flesh alike.

Daniel shifts into the form of a bird and darts outside of the cavern. Out there he sees a heavily fleshcrafted girl standing, looking around herself and occasionally shooting quick looks at the cave - Heldric and mr. Whitey are nowhere in sight.

Andreas makes short work of the one uninjured wolf.

Joseph continues his struggle with the wolf he'd taken a hold of.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 04, 2015, 05:26:53 am
"It just seems coincidental is all," Steeple replies. "At any rate, I'm going to go lurk in the graveyard tonight to see if anything interesting pops up."

To Myca, Steeple nods, "Nice signet. I am at your service whenever the need."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 04, 2015, 07:14:52 am
"T'is indeed beautiful." Lucien replies as he took the ring and inspected it. "In your time of need, we shall come." He said charismaticly."

"With the more pressing matters dealt with, would you care for a tour of the grounds?" he asked with a smile.

"Kiril, as you're in charge of our human resources would you mind spreading the news? That we once again are back in business and the taxes of the pass are back to normal?" He asked in a friendly tone.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 04, 2015, 08:03:11 am
"Oh yes!" Steeple says with unrestrained glee - "You simply must see all the spectacular Sconce-work before you go! It's to die for!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 04, 2015, 08:30:31 am
"You're the one who actually deals with taxation, Lucien," Kiril points out, quite reasonably.  "You should be the one discuss business with our workers.  I can give Myca the tour."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 04, 2015, 08:50:10 am
"Yes, i deal with the finances. You deal with the people. As we agreed on." He replied with a friendly smile as he put on the ring. Then he walked to the door. "Shall we?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 04, 2015, 12:00:06 pm
"She has healed far too fast from an unconcious state" Heldric thinks to himself, getting a little more worried than before.

He circles round her again so she is between him and Mr. Whiteys log then stands behind a large tree so she could not see him even if Obs failed and decided a new tactic using his persuasive voice.

"So my dear, why don't we talk about what is happening here? It would be very preferable to fighting more right now."

Should she detect his hiding spot and Attack he prepares to immediatly dodge and cast vanish from the minds eye again.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 04, 2015, 07:59:34 pm
"I've had so little opportunity to speak to Kiril, I think i'll take him up on his offer." Vykos announces.

Sherazhina looks worriedly at Kiril but says nothing.

"Now there's a right good man!", announces prince Maurice in his infaillible judgement.

---

Heldric begins to hear movement...

"Where is the knight?"

The girl's voice is low and guttural.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 04, 2015, 08:29:56 pm
"As you wish."  Lucien said with a bow before departIng with Ennius.

"So, whats your take on Vykos Ennius?" Lucien asked as he made his way towards the place where the workers are.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 04, 2015, 10:36:06 pm
Heldric tries to follow the movement, was she closing in on him, fleeing? Was Mr. Whitey getting himself free? If she was getting too close then of course going invisible and stealthily moving was in order.

"You will have to tell me which knight you mean as I know several and none are here, you saw my companions in your little cave ambush."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 04, 2015, 11:16:19 pm
"No, that is a lie. The two knights in the cave fighting my wolves, the dark one and the regretful one, they are both here tonight. But the centurion, the roman knight, he is missing. Tell him his master wants him back."

The sounds of mr.whitey struggling desperately to free himself from the log become prevalent. Heldric does not hear the girl anymore.

---

"He is generous. Almost too generous, I would say. You've given up more than you realize, I think, my lord." Ennius says in reply to Lucien.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 04, 2015, 11:25:44 pm
Daniel perches on a nearby surface attached to a tree that's a safe distance from the interactions going on between Heldric and the Mysterious Girl. He'll try to observe the girl and stand prepared to quickly shift back into an attack form should things go sour.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 04, 2015, 11:27:40 pm
He finds that the girl has already disappeared. He hears the short conversation that happens between her and the Nosferatu and then she slips away into the woods.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 05, 2015, 06:49:33 am
"He is generous. Almost too generous, I would say. You've given up more than you realize, I think, my lord." Ennius says in reply to Lucien.
"Yes, i agree." Lucien replied thoughtfully. "Now there are only two questions that remain unanswered." he looked up to the sky, then he raised his hand up so it looked like he had a star in the palm of his hand.

"What he requires from us..." He closed his palm into a fist, so it appeared that he crushed the star. "And, how we might best benefit from playing him." He grinned wickedly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 05, 2015, 10:33:31 am
"I'm honored you wish to spend time with me." Kiril smiles at Myca.  "to tell you the truth, civilized conversation's been a bit lacking lately."

out of habit, the Lasombra studies the Tzimisce's movements and mannerisms.  It would be especially easy to impersonate a fleshcrafter.  After all, they change appearance at will.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 05, 2015, 12:05:15 pm
Heldric calls after the vanished girl "I had no idea they were 'Knights' in your eyes but I will pass it on."

He then heads to help Mr. Whitey get free.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 05, 2015, 12:45:24 pm
"Perhaps he requires nothing at the moment, perhaps he simply wants you in his debt." Ennius suggests.

---

"The honour is mine. Please, tell me, you've been rather silent whenever we've met in the past. Do I make you uncomfortable?" Vykos asks.

Vykos' mannerisms are tame and slow. He moves carefully, almost diplomatically, making no sudden movements or gestures.

---

Mr. Whitey is rather firmly lodged underneath his log - but with Heldric's help the ghoul manages to free himself from his self-made cage.

The crocodile nuzzles apologetically at Heldric.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 05, 2015, 01:20:28 pm
"Right as rain," Steeple replies to his rock.

Then, with everyone moving off, Steeple approaches Sherazhina, noting her odd expressions.

"What is it that troubles you about all this?" Steeple asks, "What do you know of all the players in this act?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 05, 2015, 01:26:09 pm

"The honour is mine. Please, tell me, you've been rather silent whenever we've met in the past. Do I make you uncomfortable?" Vykos asks.

Vykos' mannerisms are tame and slow. He moves carefully, almost diplomatically, making no sudden movements

"Surely there's nothing about you I might find objectionable?" Kiril replies, half statement, half question.

"If I seem to refrain from conversation, it's only that my companions are more than happy to speak on the group's behalf."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 05, 2015, 01:39:44 pm
"Yes, i imagine as much for now. Only time will tell i suppose." He looked out at the foundations, and with a sigh he started walking to the workers again. "But for now, we have a fort to build."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 05, 2015, 05:37:00 pm
Sherazhina answers Steeple with a sort of vicious undertone that implies she knows more than she's letting on.

"That man is a snake, he cannot be trusted."

"Nonsense!" Maurice declares loudly.

---

"Yes."

Ennius looks, a bit empty-eyed, towards the budding castle. He seems almost puzzled for a second, before he regains his typical demeanor.

"Yes, we do."

---

"Surely not" Vykos answers back just as vaguely.

"Then let us speak of other things, different matters. I would love to know you, Kiril. We Cainites have so few allies under the night sky and I would hate to be estranged from even one.

Have you heard? The new Pope has decided to call up the nobility to take up the cross once more, it seems that a fourth crusade is imminent."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 05, 2015, 05:47:12 pm
"Is there something on your mind?" Lucien asked.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 05, 2015, 05:58:10 pm
"Not a thing, Lord Lucien." Ennius replies, sure of himself now.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 05, 2015, 07:13:50 pm
"I'll take you at your word and be cautious," Steeple says to Sherazhina (ignoring Prince Maurice for the moment).

"Did he have anything to do with the fall of you family from this place? Do know the significance of the two signet rings?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 05, 2015, 07:22:25 pm
"did you remember something?" Lucien asked, raising an eyebrow.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 05, 2015, 07:29:23 pm
"Again? I hope Anton isn't distracted."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 05, 2015, 07:38:30 pm
Anton burns willpowrr, ignoring his wounds to finish his work, and attempts to kill the last wolf.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 05, 2015, 07:52:42 pm
The wolf struggles desperately against the ashen knight's blade, but it's wounds are too great and its opponent too powerful. The fight is over.

Joseph still struggles with his own wolf, but soon the thing stops struggling, and Joseph releases it. It slumps over, unconscious.

Andreas picks up one of the broken canine bodies and feeds from it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 05, 2015, 08:05:57 pm
"Again? I hope Anton isn't distracted."

"I expect you all to be distracted, the movers in our society are extremely interested in the course this crusade takes, I have no doubt that, given your competence, you will be representing rather important people when the time comes to guide the mortals." Vykos replies.

"did you remember something?" Lucien asked, raising an eyebrow.

Ennius shakes his head.

"No, I simply... I felt something, something familiar, while Vykos was speaking. The feeling's passed."

"I'll take you at your word and be cautious," Steeple says to Sherazhina (ignoring Prince Maurice for the moment).

"Did he have anything to do with the fall of you family from this place? Do know the significance of the two signet rings?"

"No, nothing like that. But the rings, he owns you now through them. He comes to you and asks for your troubles, and you tell him and lo and behold, he has a chest full of gold right there in his carriage that's just enough for you to finish everything! He asks you nothing except that you, men who he knows will be powerful, future princes with retinues and lands and armies, do something for him of his choosing at a future date. And what choice do you have, but to accept? What would your sires do to you if you failed? What could you do if you refused?" Sherazhina seems almost incensed.

"They're all monsters, the fiends. Some show it, they twist themselves into unholy creatures so that their forms reflect their black souls - but these are the good ones, for the others will smile and bow to you and call you their honoured guest, their beloved friend, their most treasured ally - and so you won't see it when they slip the dagger into your back."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 05, 2015, 08:16:04 pm
Anton follows suit, drinking the blood of the wolves, before turning towards brother Joseph.

"You have done well in my service, and so I shall... disregard your outburst for the time being, monk. But know that you must explain yourself when we return to the keep." Anton states.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 05, 2015, 09:00:19 pm
Joseph does not respond - he just stays hunched over the wolf.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 12:35:05 am
Anton looks at Joseph, and sighs.
"Fine then, we will deal with this now." Anton states, before quickly surrounding himself and Joseph in a shroud of sound stifilinh darkness.

"Explain yourself, brother. Why did you have mercy on this wolf?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 02:00:37 am
Joseph waits a long time before answering.

"He doesn't deserve it brother. None of them did. All of them, they were innocent of all this, good and pure and kind, they were forced into the roles of monsters."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 06, 2015, 06:45:41 am
Steeple gets a glassy-eyed look, hearing the girls' words of wisdom.

'Wow, it's almost like she sees right through us Prince Maurice,' he thinks to the stone in his pocket.

Then to Sherizina Ricardo Montoya, he says simply - "You know I'm mad, right?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 06, 2015, 07:44:56 am
"I see." Lucien replied. "Perhaps he knows something about you my dear Ennius." he said in a kindly. "But do not get your hopes up."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 12:29:23 pm
"As a bat, yes."

Sherazhina sighs in resignation, and makes to leave the tent.

---

Ennius shakes his head.

"It wasn't a pleasant familiarity."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 12:35:50 pm
Joseph waits a long time before answering.

"He doesn't deserve it brother. None of them did. All of them, they were innocent of all this, good and pure and kind, they were forced into the roles of monsters."
Anton looks at the monk, pitifully, but then harshly states,
"Retaining your mercy for this animal will blind you, monk. Our duty is not to have mercy, but to dispense justice for God."

"And an agent sent against us is an agent fighting against Christ, no matter what it's intentions were. Kill it." Anton then commands, forcefully.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 06, 2015, 12:38:34 pm
"I see." he replied. "So what are your take on the others?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 12:40:09 pm
Anton looks at the monk, pitifully, but then harshly states,
"Retaining your mercy for this animal will blind you, monk. Our duty is not to have mercy, but to dispense justice for God."

"And an agent sent against us is an agent fighting against Christ, no matter what it's intentions were. Kill it." Anton then commands, forcefully.

Joseph turns his head now facing Anton. The templar sees the faint, wet glimmer of tears underneath Joseph's eyes. He also sees the fire of anger.

"No. He needs not die, he can be redeemed."

"I see." he replied. "So what are your take on the others?"

"What others?" Ennius asks questioningly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 12:45:11 pm
Joseph turns his head now facing Anton. The templar sees the faint, wet glimmer of tears underneath Joseph's eyes. He also sees the fire of anger.

"No. He needs not die, he can be redeemed."
"His redemption shall be through it's death. Otherwise, this dog shall return to corruption, just as all sinners do."

"Redeem it, monk. Purge the sin inside of it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 06, 2015, 12:45:40 pm
"The other kindred. I know how i feel about them, but how do you feel about them?" He elaborates.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 12:52:08 pm
"His redemption shall be through it's death. Otherwise, this dog shall return to corruption, just as all sinners do."

"Redeem it, monk. Purge the sin inside of it."

"Is that how you wish to redeem the world? To burn it to the ground? Why should I not kill you then, as you sleep? Drag your body outside and let the sun claim you for the monster you are? Why not kill the innocent, knowing that they might sin in the future?"

Brother Joseph grimaces, and he drops the bloody sword he carried with him to the ground.

"This beast was forced to be a monster, if you give him the chance brother, if you give him the smallest chance, he will return to the fold. You must give him the chance you deny even yourself."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 12:55:42 pm
"The other kindred. I know how i feel about them, but how do you feel about them?" He elaborates.

Ennius ponders the question for a moment - "They are our allies, and maybe even our friends. They are not old, they have no schemes and plans within plans, they want their princedoms just as you do.

I like them, really. It would be wise to keep the bonds you make here. Eternity is hell if it's spent alone."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 06, 2015, 01:02:38 pm
"Thank you for your candor," Steeple smiles to Sherizhina.

When the girl leaves the tent, Steeple consults his rock in private.

"I don't believe I've ever seen an angry bat; have you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 01:04:10 pm
"I don't know, that Mitruu fellow turned into a bat when he escaped your mighty arm in that ambush, he seemed pretty dour." Prince Maurice replies.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 01:07:05 pm
"Is that how you wish to redeem the world? To burn it to the ground? Why should I not kill you then, as you sleep? Drag your body outside and let the sun claim you for the monster you are? Why not kill the innocent, knowing that they might sin in the future?"

Brother Joseph grimaces, and he drops the bloody sword he carried with him to the ground.

"This beast was forced to be a monster, if you give him the chance brother, if you give him the smallest chance, he will return to the fold. You must give him the chance you deny even yourself."
Anton chuckles slightly.
"From the ashes will rise a kingdom worthy of God's return, brother. Where sin no longer exists, for man will truly fear the Lord's wrath. I serve my purpose, and when I fulfill it, I will not hide from the Sun's embrace. But until that day comes, I will continue following God's chosen path for me."

"And as all creatures of the Sun, brother, this dog will return to it's master, and lap the tainted blood. Once tainted, nothing is redeemable. That is the true understanding of Via Noctis, the truth of this world. Redeem this animal, as God intended you to."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 06, 2015, 01:11:10 pm
Drakilian:
 "I don't know, that Mitruu fellow turned into a bat when he escaped your mighty arm in that ambush, he seemed pretty dour." Prince Maurice replies.

---

"Hmmm..." Steeple replies thoughtfully, "You may have something there..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 06, 2015, 01:20:15 pm
Lucien chuckles slightly at Ennius words. "I see." He smiled at the knight, not a fake smile, but a true happy smile.

"You are surprisingly talkative today Ennius. Finally warming up to me are we?" He asked
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 06, 2015, 01:26:47 pm
Daniel flies to Heldric and returns to his original form. "I just came from the cave. The fighting has probably stopped by now but more wolves appeared after you left. Before we go, what did that girl want?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 01:49:59 pm
Anton chuckles slightly.
"From the ashes will rise a kingdom worthy of God's return, brother. Where sin no longer exists, for man will truly fear the Lord's wrath. I serve my purpose, and when I fulfill it, I will not hide from the Sun's embrace. But until that day comes, I will continue following God's chosen path for me."

"And as all creatures of the Sun, brother, this dog will return to it's master, and lap the tainted blood. Once tainted, nothing is redeemable. That is the true understanding of Via Noctis, the truth of this world. Redeem this animal, as God intended you to."

"As God intended me to. The God you and I see must be different Gods, mine would never be so cruel. I will have no part in this."

But Anton sees that, unlike the past few times, Joseph seems unsure of his words.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 01:59:44 pm
Lucien chuckles slightly at Ennius words. "I see." He smiled at the knight, not a fake smile, but a true happy smile.

"You are surprisingly talkative today Ennius. Finally warming up to me are we?" He asked

"I don't think I can ever be warm again, Lucien, but something's wrong about a lot of my unlife, a lot of things are missing. I don't know what I was doing when I attacked your sire."

He pauses contemplatively.

"But despite what happened, I can't help but feel i'm better off for it."

Quote
"Hmmm..." Steeple replies thoughtfully, "You may have something there..."

"Clearly our only possible course of action is to turn into angry bats and throw porcupines at her."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 02:03:32 pm
"As God intended me to. The God you and I see must be different Gods, mine would never be so cruel. I will have no part in this."

But Anton sees that, unlike the past few times, Joseph seems unsure of his words.
"Brother, God is not cruel. He has sent us to pave way for the eternal kingdom. To save his flock. There is nothing cruel about that."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 06, 2015, 02:05:39 pm
"I simply must learn that one," Steeple muses. "Animalism, I do believe..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 02:17:00 pm
"Life is sacred brother. This beast has the fire of life within him still. I would not extinguish that fire."

There is sadness is Joseph's voice. He still kneels by the wolf.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 02:17:44 pm
"I simply must learn that one," Steeple muses. "Animalism, I do believe..."

"Yes! We can possess the bats instead of actually turning into them! Brilliant! Brilliant I say!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 02:22:15 pm
"Life is sacred brother. This beast has the fire of life within him still. I would not extinguish that fire."

There is sadness is Joseph's voice. He still kneels by the wolf.
"the only thing in this world that is sacred is the Soul, brother. Everything else will be used for sin and corruption. And once something has been corrupted, the only thing we can do it redeem it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 06, 2015, 02:32:29 pm
"Perhaps just a foolish decision. But if i know you, thats probarly not the case." he replied casually. "You know, sooner or later your past is going to catch up to us." He looked at him in a friendly way. "But for now im glad your glad." He patted him on the back.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 02:40:26 pm
"You said yourself, they have no souls."

Joseph holds his hand gently over the twisted wolf's chest, as it rises and falls with the creature's breathing.

"Perhaps just a foolish decision. But if i know you, thats probarly not the case." he replied casually. "You know, sooner or later your past is going to catch up to us." He looked at him in a friendly way. "But for now im glad your glad." He patted him on the back.


Ennius accepts the pat - (fade-out?)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 02:48:53 pm
"You said yourself, they have no souls."

Joseph holds his hand gently over the twisted wolf's chest, as it rises and falls with the creature's breathing.


Ennius accepts the pat - (fade-out?)
"You said yourself, they have no souls."

Joseph holds his hand gently over the twisted wolf's chest, as it rises and falls with the creature's breathing.


Ennius accepts the pat - (fade-out?)
"And as such, it is nothing but corruption, brother. Remove it from this earth." He then commands,
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 06, 2015, 02:54:40 pm
Heldric pets Mr. whitey caringly "You poor thing, forced to act like that. We will have to give you agreat treat later."

Then as the Gangrel finally returns to form "It seems she was the mastermind or at least the middle man behind this particular ambush, she had a message, or questions for us, I shall relay it to the group as soon as they finish within the cave."

He then pets Mr. Whitey angain and heads for the cave.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 02:58:38 pm
"I expect you all to be distracted, the movers in our society are extremely interested in the course this crusade takes, I have no doubt that, given your competence, you will be representing rather important people when the time comes to guide the mortals." Vykos replies.

Kiril shrugs noncommittally.  "I suppose we shall see."
"Given your competence?" That's . . . an odd thing to say, when he's just saved us from total ruin.  Is he trying to be flattering, or insulting?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 03:05:37 pm
Joseph closes his eyes, and his hand seeks the blade.

Afterwards he says softly - so softly that Anton almost fails to hear it - "I pray for your forgiveness, brother."

The knight isn't sure the monk meant him.

---

Moving through the foliage Heldric arrives to see a sphere of darkness. Andreas, surrounded by the bodies of broken wolves, beams at him. He gestures for his blood-brother to join him.

Kiril shrugs noncommittally.  "I suppose we shall see."
"Given your competence?" That's . . . an odd thing to say, when he's just saved us from total ruin.  Is he trying to be flattering, or insulting?

"Then again, you might be busy dealing with war in your own lands - animosity is growing between the Patricians and the Eastern Fiends, they say Lord Jürgen plans an invasion to reinforce Arpad power in the region."

Vykos says off-handedly, looking at the assistant mason as he goes about ordering the workers in Sylvian's absence.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 03:10:15 pm
kiril also directs his attention towards the mason, wondering what might have caught the tzimisce' attention.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 03:15:35 pm
The assistant continues shouting orders - he looks aside for a short moment, feeling the gaze of the two vampires burning into his back. His eyes briefly stay on Vykos' face and then he turns rapidly away from Kiril's.

"I hope for your great success here, Kiril. I want you all to be the princes your sires have promised to make you. Your efforts here will progress smoothly, I give you my word I will speak with Mircea."

Vykos bows his head briefly to Kiril.

"Unfortunately, I must take my leave, I have been here far too long already."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 03:28:17 pm
"Until we meet again, then."  Kiril bows in reply.

Once Myca has departed, he heads off to find Sherazhina and Carinus.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 03:33:01 pm
[cant quote the joseph part]

Anton nods, and waits silently.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 03:36:46 pm
Going back towards the tent he finds Steeple (alone). He does hear the sound of movement somewhere to his left, however.

Following it he sees Carinus carrying a large cloth bag lightly stained with some unidentified liquids. It's probably just dirt, right?

Sherazhina is there with him. She falls silent at Kiril's approach - but on realizing who it is her relief is plainly visible.

"Kiril, you left Vykos quickly."

---

Anton hears and sees Heldric enter the cavern, Mr. Whitey at his feet.

Joseph gets up slowly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 03:44:35 pm
(Assuming they are away from steeples attention.) "I was worried about you.  You seemed terribly distressed by something while we were talking."

(Kiril wouldn't dream of prying into carinus's affairs.)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 03:48:34 pm
"Vykos is not to be trusted" she says, earnestly.

"This offer he makes you, it reeks of manipulation - you were not asked, you were given the choice between death and salvation, and he came so well prepared to be your salvation."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 06, 2015, 03:54:34 pm
"Good." Anton states, and then disperses the shroud, and turns to Heldric.

"Are the wolves outside taken care of?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 04:13:31 pm
"Vykos is not to be trusted" she says, earnestly.

"This offer he makes you, it reeks of manipulation - you were not asked, you were given the choice between death and salvation, and he came so well prepared to be your salvation."

"He did share a meaningful glance with the mason. . ." Kiril muses.  "Carinus?  Is that mason essential to our efforts?"

He returns his attention to Sherazhina.  "It would be a shame if Myca were behind our recent misfortunes.  I wanted to like him."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 04:18:22 pm
Carinus' lips curve slightly, the suggestion of a smile.

"Not at all."

"Of course you did, the Fiends excel at that." Sherazhina says, rather bitterly.

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 04:25:47 pm
"All right." Kiril nods to Carinus. "Take care of it."

To Sherazhina, he replies, "I wasn't interested in him for his charm. He's simply the only civilized kindred we've seen in weeks."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 04:40:43 pm
Carinus disappears quietly.

"His civility is a merely a well-crafted mask made to hide his depravity, I promise you."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 05:04:27 pm
"At least he hides it," Kiril points out.  "Unlike the rest of these idiots.

I want you to stay away from them. Especially Lucien and Steeple."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 05:10:53 pm
Confusion twists her lovely features - "Why Steeple? Insane as he may be, he wouldn't touch a hair on any of our heads."

(Meanwhile, back in the tent with Prince Maurice and Steeple)

"We shall soar through the skies with an army of hedgehogs and bats, one for every hair on her head, and it shall rain furryous vengeance!

Vengeance for what you say? UNIMPORTANT DETAILS, VENGEANCE I SAY!"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 05:27:40 pm
"You can't trust madness!" Kiril grabs her arm and pulls her towards him, his voice low and venomous.
"especially when it masquerades as whimsy.  You say you can see past Myca's disguise, why can't you see past steeples?"
 He continues, to himself as much as shera, " Insanity is never harmless, never safe. It waits, for you to let your guard down. . ."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 05:30:47 pm
Sherazhina jerks her arm back.

"His cruelty is directed to those who disrespect him. They may be mad, but it does not mean they are devoid of reason. Madness does not always destroy the person it inhabits."

She seems angry, perhaps Kiril struck a more personal chord with her?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 05:43:25 pm
"Why so eager to defend him?" Kiril savagely responds.

"Do you wish he'd been the one to rescue you? Do you lie awake, thinking of him, wishing it was his blood that bound you?

Shall I give you to him, so he can throw you to the fleshcrafters when he decides you've disrespected him?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 05:53:42 pm
Sherazhina glares at Kiril.

"You would hate him so for the lot he was given?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 05:59:17 pm
"I would protect you from him!" Kiril shouts.  "And don't think I didn't notice how you avoided my question," he adds, more quietly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 06, 2015, 05:59:28 pm
"Ah, good times haha!" Steeple agrees, then falls silent.

Ever since those cursed tablet demons, Prince Maurice has been acting more and more strangely. Steeple would have to be careful what he said around his friend. Gauge his advice carefully. Make sure that it was truly old Maurice in there and not something else. Something dark and disturbed. Something that would warp the minds of those around them, drawing them into the chimera of dreamy madness, then...

Then what?

Hopefully something not too unpleasant.

Yeah, that would suck.

"Vengeance yes!" Steeple laughs nervously - ah ha ha ha ... ha. *gulp...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 06:16:23 pm
Prince Maurice then falls silent, as if having read the malkavian's mind.

He then whispers a quick phrase.

"I'm sorry Steeple. He used to be a good man."

"I would protect you from him!" Kiril shouts.  "And don't think I didn't notice how you avoided my question," he adds, more quietly.

"You would jealously hoard me, like master would a slave" She says, venomously.

She then falls silent. After a bit, she answers Kiril's first question.

"My brother, Dragomir... he's never been all right. It's very common in the families, the blood twists our mortal minds."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 06:25:37 pm
"I'm sorry for your brother," Kiril softly replies.   "But that doesn't mean steeple is harmless."

He looks away from her.  "Do you really feel that's our relationship? Master and slave?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 06:30:32 pm
"It doesn't mean that he is a monster either."

She replies, earnestly.

To his query she says "A word to another and in an instant you are furious? You threaten me even?"

In a quieter voice she continues - "Yes Kiril, sometimes I feel as if the only reason I was rescued was so that I could be bought cheaply."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 06:35:26 pm
"He betrayed his servant's trust.  Even if the man disrespected him-- you do not abandon your own."

"When did I threaten you?" Kiril is genuinely confused.  "What have I ever done to make you feel as though I only wished to buy you cheaply?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 06, 2015, 06:50:15 pm
Prince Maurice then falls silent, as if having read the malkavian's mind.

He then whispers a quick phrase.

"I'm sorry Steeple. He used to be a good man."

"Er, you heard that did you?" Steeple asks, his shoulders slumping and a feeling of melancholy coming on.

"I'm sorry buddy," he whispers to the stone, "It's just that you are so important to me. I don't know what I would do if I ever lost you..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 06:57:45 pm
"Just now, you told me you would give me to Steeple only to be thrown to the fleshcrafters! You took me from the city and not once have you even asked me if i'd like to go home, if I want to be here, it's always been to follow you, to stay with you, to speak with you! What am I then, that you rescue me only to chain me to you? What recourse do I have, but to stay?"

There is frustration in her voice.

---

"That'll never happen Steeple. You and me, we'll brave all of time together."

A light breeze comes in through the tent entrance, and for a second, it's almost as if Maurice is physically comforting Steeple.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 07:09:30 pm
"That . . . That's not what I said at all!" Kiril Incredulously replies. "I asked if you wanted to leave me For Steeple, even knowing he'd like as not give you to Lucien when he tired of you.  It was a question, not a threat!"  He runs a hand through his hair and sighs.

"You want to leave? You want to go home? Then go.  I didn't realize you Found my company so tiresome."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 07:27:11 pm
She scoffs.

"Banish me, oh mighty lord, out into the transylvanian landscape all by my lonesome? Or did you forget that I own nothing since you "freed" me, that I can do nothing without your approval as I have nothing of my own?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 07:50:35 pm
"You begrudge my rescue, you act as though I've wronged you!

I thought you stayed with me by choice, I didn't realize all this time you were seething with resentment that I hadn't dropped everything  to escort you home.

Fear not, I shall rectify that mistake immediately.  Tell me, how much money do you feel entitled to? What price shall I pay for the sin of saving you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 08:03:20 pm
"It's not that you saved me, it's that you never even bothered to ask if I would be somewhere else! My answer wouldn't have mattered, you just wanted me to yourself!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 08:10:07 pm
"Forgive me for thinking that if you objected to accompanying me, you'd say so," Kiril says bitterly.

"Now answer the question.  How much money do I need to give you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 08:22:10 pm
Sherazhina lists an amount - it is fairly small, if Kiril were to guess it was the absolute minimum.

"Tell me, is that too rich for your greedy blood?"

She then storms off, furious, before Kiril can reply. Kiril might be surprised the senselessness of her last insult, if there was one thing he hadn't shown himself to be, it was greedy...

The faint smell of blood announces Carinus' approach.

"Kiril, you must forgive the madame on my behalf. She is angry for her brother, and for fear of losing her freedom again."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 08:32:42 pm
"Forgive her?" kiril replies dispiritedly. "And then what? If she wants to leave, I have no interest in forcing her to stay."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 08:35:19 pm
"She has no desire to leave us, it is why she is so afraid." Carinus says, his voice low and smooth.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 08:50:04 pm
"Do you feel chained to me, Carinus?" Kiril barely seems to have heard what the ghoul said. "Have I unjustly deprived you of your freedom?" Then, abruptly, "what do you mean, she's afraid?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 08:58:16 pm
Carinus smiles, showing of small, white teeth.

"Not everyone is as... comfortable, with the bond as I am, Kiril. You understand that. She wants to be here with us, Kiril, she doesn't want to leave. It frightens her, because she should want to go back to her old life, shouldn't she? Why does she stay with the two strangers, why has she not even tried to leave? Perhaps she thinks her will is not her own. She is frightened by how comfortable she is with us. It will pass, if you do not push her away in her anger."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 09:07:05 pm
"it doesn't matter.  She can stay or go as she pleases.  A nobleman has no business allowing his actions to be affected by His servant's mood."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 09:30:35 pm
Carinus tsks.

"Give me some of your blood then, cold nobleman, that my actions may be those affected by your servant's mood."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 09:39:02 pm
Kiril acquiesces, biting deep into his wrist and offering it to Carinus.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 06, 2015, 09:44:53 pm
Carinus collects the blood in a delicate carafe and carefully puts it away.

"When she comes back to her tent she will find the money you collect for her and the blood that binds her to you. Then she will make her choice.

When you wake tomorrow, we will be together, and we shall never speak of such inane matters again."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 06, 2015, 09:51:02 pm
(Fade out)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 07, 2015, 06:37:31 am
Drakilian:
"That'll never happen Steeple. You and me, we'll brave all of time together."

A light breeze comes in through the tent entrance, and for a second, it's almost as if Maurice is physically comforting Steeple.

---

Feeling a little better Steeple declares - "Yes! And first we'll trap some grave robbing bastards! To the cemetery!!!"

(Fade out)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 07, 2015, 03:29:55 pm
Hendricks heads over to join Andreas with a very twisted imitation of what could be guessed at to be a friendly smile while he replies.

"I fought the one in control of the ambush, amazing regenerative abilities and the ability to take control of even Mr. Whitey for a time. She left this message for us (relays the message here)"

He then snacks on a wolf corpse
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 07, 2015, 03:41:16 pm
"Looks like Ennius and Lucien have much to explain." Anton states.

"As well as our regretful knight." Anton mutters, deciding to confront Joseph about that later on.

"But it is good you managed to take care of the threat, at least for now. We will have to inform the coterie about this wolf girl when we return."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 07, 2015, 04:00:07 pm
Andreas makes a series of vague snarls and grunts, Mr. Whitey translates for him as always:

They fought well, and viciously. Sad that the cruel one turned them on us, I should have liked to keep one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 07, 2015, 06:54:07 pm
#after the long walk to the fortress

Anton, tired and weary from the long trek, looks to the group.
"We need to have everyone gathered, we need to deal with this situation as soon as we can. We don't have the funds to deal with a vovoide who wants a kindred in our group." Anton states.

"Daniel, can you get Lucien and bring him and his knight to the hall? I will bring the rest. Dont tell him about the Wolf girl yet. I will gather the rest." Anton states, as he heads on towards Kiril, first.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 07, 2015, 07:30:47 pm
Kiril greets his brother with their usual detached politeness. "Anton, wonderful news- you remember Lord Vykos?  He's given us the necessary funding. He gave Lucien a ring, as well.
How did the wolf hunt fare? Oh, and we need another mason."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 07, 2015, 08:18:53 pm
Anton nods.
"So we are no longer worried about our funds then? What did he ask in return?"

"And the wolf hunt went well, brother. It seems that there are far more to the vovoide's agression then meets the eye."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 07, 2015, 08:22:28 pm
Heldric approaches the two as they talk and passes on the information about the girl and her seeking the "Roman Knight". (OOC sorry for not role playing this properly but so little time).

"So indeed there is more going on that we know, I presume that she saw us all as Radu's Knights so whoever is the roman is the target."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 07, 2015, 08:31:23 pm
Daniel enters the cave to catch up on shit he's missed.

He runs up to Heldric, "Who was that girl I saw you with outside?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 07, 2015, 08:39:15 pm
Anton nods.
"So we are no longer worried about our funds then? What did he ask in return?"

"And the wolf hunt went well, brother. It seems that there are far more to the vovoide's agression then meets the eye."


"That's Lucian's problem," Kiril shrugs. "He's the one with the ring."

After heldric explains about the roman knight, Kiril looks to Anton.  "Do you have any idea what that's about?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 07, 2015, 09:24:07 pm
Anton nods.
"I believe so. Heldric encountered the wolf leader, a girl who seemed to consider Ennius her master's property. We hope Lucien knows more about this." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 05:44:39 am
"Old Viking Vykos just wants to maneuver us around the board is all." Steeple adds, "He has bought and paid for us with his loan sharking ways. But at least we don't have to end up in the Cathedral of Flesh like the rest (for now)..."

"Old Lucian's signed all our names away in blood, when he accepted that ring. I shiver to think about payday haha!"

"Did you find out if this girl is 'what's-her-name', Lord Radu's disappointing protégé?"

"And alas, I haven't been able to catch the grave robbers yet. But they'll be sorry if I do."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 06:48:25 am
"By the way, has anyone seen my hedgehog? I seem to have misplaced it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 08:53:22 am
Anton looks a bit shocked at Steeple's sudden arrival, but, with him being a malkavian, nothing is really surprising about his actions.
"Who?" He asks, when steeple mentions Radu's failed servent.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 09:07:13 am
"Marelle? For what possible reason would she be here?" Steeple asks, surprised at Anton's question.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 09:49:13 am
"Who is Radu's failed servant?" Anton asks again.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 10:01:27 am
"Who? You mean someone other than Marelle?" Steeple asks Anton. "Haven't you heard?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 10:07:49 am
Before Anton can answer, Steeple paraphrases - first taking in a huge breath of air ...

"She is more commonly known as the sculptor of wolves, for her preferred ghouls are wolves and she crafts bizarre deformities for them, often combining the skeletons and organs of several at once. Lupine kinfolk are treasured above all, for the torment of transformation instills the taint of corruption in them.

She began her life as a Danislav revenant in northeastern Transylvania. She was a skilled manipulator and advisor, taking great pleasure in pitting the local knezi against one another and thriving in political strife. She was eventually invited to Radu's court to advise him concerning a dispute with a Gangrel.

Wolves served this Gangrel beast as bodyguards, and they had begun to prey on the humans not far from Bistritz. Many infants were stolen away in the night, and some daring packs would run through the streets of the city, causing mayhem. Soon they began to seek out Radu's havens.

Roused from his daily slumber by the troublesome lupines, the Count took this offense as a declaration of war.

Marelle stalked this Gangrel in the forest outside Bistritz to ascertain the cause of his grievance. What she discovered alarmed her. The Cainite was found conferring with Arnulf - He is a powerful Inconnu known for his hatred of the larger cities of Transylvania and the Cainites who encourage their growth.The situation became obvious: The wolves were scouts for some larger campaign against the city. Wise to the threat, Radu Embraced Marelle as his childe. Certain that she would be a staunch ally against the enemies of his domain, he set her against the Inconnu's servant. Her ruthless response to the Gangrel assault was impressive. Marelle was fanatical about destroying the Gangrel that threatened her sire from the moment she clawed her way from the grave.

She began with simple warnings: Canine servants were found grafted together in twos and threes around towering pine trees. As the warnings continued, her "messages" became grislier. The Gangrel relented, but Marelle did not.

When she at last hunted down the Gangrel, she fleshcrafted him into a monster and caused him to be devoured by his own Lupine servants. Marelle became so bestial that Radu could no longer stand the sight of her. She enjoyed tormenting other living things and when she abducted a human infant for one of her studies, Radu, perhaps the most diplomatic of some already so courteous clan, captured his childe, informing her that he had disowned her and that she would be banished from his lands. Were she to ever return, he would destroy her.

This might not be unacceptable in and of itself, save for where Radu banished her. Marelle was sacrificed to the Cathedral of Flesh."

Steeple then exhales.

"At least that's what I heard."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 08, 2015, 11:03:20 am
"Forgive me for interrupting," says Kiril, "But I don't understand.  If she was sacrificed to the Cathedral, how can she be the girl you met in the woods?  Are you saying she somehow managed to escape?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 11:42:12 am
Steeple looks around to see who Kiril said he just interrupted (as he had finished speaking and no one had yet started up again before Kiril stepped in).

Then, after an awkwardly long pause, says "I hear they let you out on good behavior."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 08, 2015, 12:13:34 pm
"I am not sure if Daniel saw but she is strong in odd ways, be weary if you meet her. I destroyed half of her face and head and had Mr. Whitey completely evicerate her and eat some innards but she was able to fully take control of Mr. Whitey and still be fully healed in seconds. If it is Radu's failed servent maybe contacting him could shed more light on the situation too."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 12:28:06 pm
"How positively ghastly," Steeple comments with a facetious grin at the mention of Mr. Whitey chomping innards.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 12:46:40 pm
"While there are many similarities, I find it a bit far fetched to think that someone sacrificed to the Cathedral of Flesh would be out here harassing us." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 08, 2015, 01:31:02 pm
"Oh, did I mention that 'good behavior' in this case means performance?" Steeple continues, "They let you out to perform a task. Do well and you don't have to go back in."

"You should ask Lucian," Steeple concludes mater-of-factly, "He knows all about it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 08, 2015, 07:33:07 pm
Lucien, casually walking back from his business with the workers walks up to Anton. "How did the hunt go?" He asks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 07:49:16 pm
"Well." Anton states. "There were more wolves then expected, but we handled them with efficinecy."

"However, some things came to light about your realtionship with the knight. How did you encounter him?" He begins asking.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 08, 2015, 07:57:30 pm
"Good. I'd hate to see them bothering the workers. I dont suppose you brought any live ones back did you? I would have liked to study it." He replied in a friendly manner.

"Knight? What knight? Ennius?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 08:12:08 pm
Anton shakes his head.
"We killed them all, Lucien."

"And yes, your knight Ennius. I repeat, how did you encounter him?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 08, 2015, 08:16:39 pm
"Damn shame." He shakes his head sadly.

"He singlehandely assaulted my sires haven." He replied honestly. "Killed most of the guards and servants, hell he even killed the Shlachta guards." he added

"Why do you ask?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 08:21:03 pm
"Why?" Anton asks, not answering Lucien's question for the moment.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 08, 2015, 08:27:01 pm
"I cant tell you." He replied with a shrug. "And i ask again Anton, Why do you ask?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 08:44:28 pm
"We believe you and the knight are the reason the wolves have been disturbing our work. And we need to know who you took the knight from." Anton explains.

"So answer the question, Lucien."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 08, 2015, 08:51:20 pm
"I already did Anton." He smiled at him. "I cant tell you because i dont know why he attacked. He doesnt remember anything prior to attacking."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 08:56:50 pm
"So a monstrously powerful being attacked you, and yet you and your sire never bothered to figure out who sent him? And why? You both just gave up on figuring it out?" Anton asks, incredulous.

"Lucien, do you truly think that this fable would be believed?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 08, 2015, 09:07:57 pm
"T'is the truth." He simply replied. "I tried. But the thing about fortitude is that it makes effective torture impossible, and it was not my place to ask around in kindred society about him, but my sire Sandors. And no dear Anton, i dont know if he had any success, i didnt care enough to ask."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 08, 2015, 09:20:50 pm
"You did not care to ask..." Anton mutters, before sighing.

"Lucien, I am not asking for you to give away your knight. I am asking to know who we are dealing with. We need to know this. This is far more important then whatever shame the true tale involves."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 08, 2015, 09:31:40 pm
"And i keep telling you i dont know. I would not be so proud as to keep important relevant information to myself just because some silly human emotion of shame." He replied somewhat annoyed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 08, 2015, 09:47:31 pm
Ennius looks strangely at Anton.

"It is true, I remember nothing from my time before my assault on Sandor's vovoidate. I wouldn't call myself monstrously powerful either, you have seen me in action yourself. I am just rather resilient."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 08, 2015, 10:11:24 pm
Kiril, who has been observing the tedious back-and-forth with growing impatience, finally interrupts.
"Could we stop wasting time on this? Anton asks Lucien what's going on, luci says he doesn't know, Anton says 'you can't possibly be this ignorant and willfully obtuse,' Lucien asserts that yes he can.
The important thing is determining what, if anything, needs to be done."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 09, 2015, 06:54:47 am
"Hmm... It's a real enigma," Steeple mutters.

"What do you make of all this?" He then asks the rock in his pocket.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 09, 2015, 09:05:12 am
Kiril, who has been observing the tedious back-and-forth with growing impatience, finally interrupts.
"Could we stop wasting time on this? Anton asks Lucien what's going on, luci says he doesn't know, Anton says 'you can't possibly be this ignorant and willfully obtuse,' Lucien asserts that yes he can.
The important thing is determining what, if anything, needs to be done."

Anton nods.
"We need to figure out who the knight was sent by. If Lucien has no idea, then we must capture the wolf girl somehow."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 09, 2015, 09:10:17 am
"Why'd you let her go in the first place?" Lucien asks casually.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 09, 2015, 11:25:10 am
"She vanished. Unfortunately none of us there are skilled in the art of Auspex."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 09, 2015, 12:34:37 pm
"I see." He replied thoughtfully. "Oh well, there is always next time."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 09, 2015, 12:46:24 pm
"And there is always a next time," Steeple adds, emphasizing the word 'always'.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 09, 2015, 01:45:50 pm
Lucien gives Steeple an odd look. "Indeed." he replied to the malkavian before muttering something incomprehensable.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 09, 2015, 01:47:49 pm
"Well for now we can proceed with construction I gather, we must be more vigilant of this new enemy though and who she may serve."

With that Heldric heads off to find a more secluded area in which to feed Mr Whitey, it wouldn't be good for the human workers to see anything.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 09, 2015, 04:04:52 pm
Myca left soon after his visit, having talked at length with Kiril and Lucien about this or that subject. Once he was gone work began again. With his money the cainites were able to purchase more supplies and replace any lost tools, as well as more men to work. Morale returned to the camp as well as the towns as Lucien lowered the taxes of not just the town but the pass as well, and attacks from the wolves had stopped. Though it had taken two months of pulling teeth just to finish the placements of the floor it took far less to finish the rest of the floor.

The cotterie often spent their nights disturbed by Steeple's muttering, as the vampire often, strangely enough, began muttering to Prince Maurice in his sleep. Steeple would also often spend nights in the graveyard, intending to catch the fiends who would disturb the graves of the dead, only to return with no results (though the grave robberies had stopped).

The apprentice mason was found to be horribly, viciously mauled (perhaps the final victim of the ghoul wolves?) by the edge of the town, with him was one of the slave girls. Both had clearly been partially eaten and many vital organs were missing, most likely the fault of scavengers.

Kiril found the money he had collected for Sherazhina in the communal haven on waking. They have no spoken much since, but Kiril knows at least what choice she has made.

Construction proceeds, and work looks good. Soon it will be time to inform their sires and their patron of the group's success.

Then one night, the cotterie wakes to find the translation key missing, gone from their haven...

Heldric, eternally vigilant as he is, and Mr. Whitey both noticed nothing out of the usual that night. How strange...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 09, 2015, 05:14:23 pm
Steeple immediately uses his Wooden Tongues, to ask the room itself where the Key is or who took it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 09, 2015, 05:22:50 pm
Daniel asks his ghouls if they noticed anything. (Not really expecting much, but hey, you've got to contribute!)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 09, 2015, 05:47:09 pm
Kiril considers what might have happened to the key. It's highly unlikely a stranger came into the haven unnoticed while they slept. He investigates the keys holding place for potential clues.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 09, 2015, 07:32:40 pm
Steeple immediately uses his Wooden Tongues, to ask the room itself where the Key is or who took it.

Steeple winces again in visible pain. He can tell the others nothing but that he was wracked by the screams of the tortured spirits of this room.

Nothing here would speak to him.

Daniel's ghouls hadn't noticed anyone entering or leaving the haven.

Kiril finds no traces, odd scents or odours, or anything particularly special hiding around wherever Lucien had kept the translation key.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 09, 2015, 07:49:23 pm
Heldric has Mr. Whitey and Andreas search the sanctuary with their senses to try and detect anything different like scent etc. then has them accompany him out, allowing others to come if they so wished. He then systematically spends a couple of hours calling dogs, birds and other animals to try and have them search for scents that were not present before the last day, or new humanoids in the vicinity.

Once those wispy washy commands are done (and fail since they are too wispy washy) he has dogs trace scents away from the mutilated corpses.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 09, 2015, 07:57:23 pm
"GEESH!!" Steeple pouts, "I've never met more uncooperative jim jams!"

Steeple then takes out his pet rock - "At least you've never screamed in my ears," he says to it. Pondering what to try next ...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 09, 2015, 09:11:04 pm
Kiril considers the situation.
Lucien had possession of the key; the simplest solution is that either he or Ennius still has it.
But is he *that* stupid? He'd have to know he's the obvious suspect.
It's highly unlikely that a stranger could sneak into our haven utterly undetected.
It's also quite possible that Heldric or Steeple has it, considering their showy but fruitless efforts at investigation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 10, 2015, 10:45:11 am
Steeple meanwhile, felt as though he too should have some sort of internal monolog, but was unfortunately drawing a complete blank.

"..." he thought to himself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 10, 2015, 04:53:57 pm
How the Fark did this happem.. HOW DID THIS HAPPEN. Lucien thought to himself, really pissed off that something that valuable got stolen from right under his nose.

"Ennius, you got any clues on how the Fark it got stolen?" He asked his servant, as he wanders the scene of the crime with Heightened senses (smelling.)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 11, 2015, 10:12:29 am
Kiril speaks privately with Carinus.  "It's clear the thief is one of my supposed allies.  I fail to see the point in wasting time trying to determining which.
The thief no doubt had insight into each of our respective abilities of detection, along with weeks to proof his plan against investigation.

From now on I want you and Sherazhina to be on your guard around all of them.
 Their servants, too, obviously.
None of them can be trusted."

He then departs to handle whatever necessary arrangements need to be made for their sire's arrival.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 11, 2015, 12:44:13 pm
Lucien similarly does not detect any special scent.

"I'm not sure Lucien." Ennius shrugs back.

"Does it really matter? We have copies."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 11, 2015, 02:30:57 pm
Before Kiril leaves, Carinus takes the time to make one suggestion:

"Whoever took the translation key did not take it outside of that room. I would have noticed that door opening."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 11, 2015, 02:44:15 pm
"Items can be changed or hidden with powers, nosferatu can make objects absent from the mind while others can change objects or hide them within the earth. One of us may be betraying us, under an effect like domination or there may be more to the room than we know"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 11, 2015, 02:47:59 pm
Carinus raises an eyebrow.

"The only Nosferatu we've met who could be so skilled is the master Zelios. Do you truly believe he would stoop so low as to steal the key? He's the one who counseled you not to give it to him as payment."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 11, 2015, 02:59:56 pm
"Nosferatu was simply one option I mentioned, it would be more suspicious if I withheld information when it was needed. It is highly doubtful that it was zelios though as if he wanted it he could have accepted it at any time or simply taken it by force I have no doubt. I lean more toward my other two point, betrayal or some form of mind control. Does Mica have that ability?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 11, 2015, 03:42:51 pm
Kiril sighs and adds a comment.

"Or the key is still in the room, and we cannot perceive it; or it was stolen days or weeks before, and we only thought it was in the room. 

My point remains- we are not likely to uncover the culprit."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 11, 2015, 08:17:28 pm
Anton looks around, annoyed.
"Whoever stole it betrayed our trust, which is to be expected from us cursed. It is not the value of the translation that matters, for it is worthless, but the value of the gold. I expect the one who did it to confess immediately. Otherwise I will be required to elucidate the information through means I would rather not use."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 11, 2015, 08:33:45 pm
"Who is dead?" Steeple asks.

"Zelios said they would kill for the key."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 12, 2015, 08:05:52 am
"So will no one admit?" Anton asks
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 09:01:11 am
"Too bad no one is dead," Steeple laments, "then I could have spoken to them directly and asked who did it..."

Then, thinking a moment, Steeple replies to Anton's previous statement - "Let's not let this divide us against ourselves, for that would only give us right into the hands of those already proven against us."

"Remember that someone was trying to stop us. Then Myca (what's his name) conveniently showed up to 'save' us (for the price of being in his debt). The wolf girl is still out there looking for one of us. We never found out who or why the graves had been robbed. Now this..."

"Perhaps this is the very purpose of taking it, beyond its gold value - to further drive us apart infighting."

"I say it isn't worth it."

"We don't really need its gold value (which we would be fools to try to get out of it - as pointed out by the Viking dude)."

"And we have copies of the key, so we lose nothing not having the original (other than some other fiend now has that knowledge too)."

"Or the key is still hidden in here with us; In which case, we either just search for it, or simply make sure that it doesn't leave."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 12, 2015, 09:28:45 am
Anton shakes his head.
"Myca has been gone for a long time, and already holds us hostage with that ring. And the wolf girl seemed only interested in the knight Lucien holds in retinue. The perpetrator is likely one of us, and, due to our curse, it is very easy to discover the truth."

"We shall convene in an hour, after which Kiril's servant and Sylvian can conduct an investigation of our character. During this, the thief may return the gold to Lucien's hidden location without being exposed. After said hour, however, the thief will be exposed, and we will know who can not be trusted, if any of us."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 01:59:14 pm
"Fine," Steeple replies, "But in the event that the key doesn't show, we should enquire of our servants."

"As they are the only ones that could have taken it out into the daylight while we slept - they would have been privy to any schemes of their master (or seen something perhaps). Let's just ask them if they were commanded to remove it (and by who)."

"And if none of them; then it had to have been an outside job."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 12, 2015, 02:19:37 pm
Anton shakes his head.
"It would be swifter, but there are issues with this. There are other ways to steal from us, without a servant knowing. We shall dominate the servants. Sylvian can 'convince' us if the theif is still not found."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 02:33:20 pm
"What do you mean by that last part?" Steeple questions with a raised eyebrow.

"Do you suggest we allow each other to molest our own minds and will?!?"

"What a positively unseemly idea!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 12, 2015, 02:44:09 pm
"Unfortunately, it is the only way to be certain." Anton states.

"I trust, however, that it will not come to that."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 12, 2015, 04:36:26 pm
"You're placing an awfull lot of trust in me and Ennius. T'is not every day you get a chance to dominate every member of a coterie." Lucien says.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 12, 2015, 04:39:31 pm
"Every ghoul. One a word. And if no ghouls are found guilty, Sylvian will work his art."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 12, 2015, 04:47:47 pm
"Wait a minute," Kiril objects. "Why are you so quick to assume Ennius will be the one to conduct the interrogation? If you are all determined to go through with this, Carinus is just as capable."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 05:48:24 pm
"HA!" Steeple laughs aloud. "As if anyone would be foolish enough to let that butcher into their head!"

"No offense of course," he then smiles.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 05:49:48 pm
"Oh wait..."

"Or did you mean physical persuation?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 12, 2015, 06:04:30 pm
"Ennius, dominate me. Force me to say if i stole it." Lucien ordered calmly while staring directly into his eyes.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 06:29:10 pm
"And they say I'm mad..." Steeple sighs, face-palming at Lucien's theatrics.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 12, 2015, 06:32:18 pm
"You really are an idiot," says Kiril. "Or doing an excellent job of pretending.

First of all, we all know ghouls cannot dominate kindred- the suggestion proposed was for one ghoul to dominate the others, not us. Secondly, even if it could be done, why on earth would we believe your own servant was forcing you to do anything?

I still say we're wasting our time looking for the thief.  I certainly won't allow any of you or your servants to do anything to my retainers."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 06:36:56 pm
"And you shouldn't," Steeple says, "But what is wrong with allowing a harmless and temporary compulsion of a servant to ascertain the truth of his testimony?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 12, 2015, 06:40:37 pm
"Ennius, dominate me. Force me to say if i stole it." Lucien ordered calmly while staring directly into his eyes.
"Not now." Anton states. "We will see who the culprit is in an hour, or we will find our gold hidden here."
"You really are an idiot," says Kiril. "Or doing an excellent job of pretending.

First of all, we all know ghouls cannot dominate kindred- the suggestion proposed was for one ghoul to dominate the others, not us. Secondly, even if it could be done, why on earth would we believe your own servant was forcing you to do anything?

I still say we're wasting our time looking for the thief.  I certainly won't allow any of you or your servants to do anything to my retainers."
"Kiril, brother, you will be there to watch. If you feel strongly about this, you may either immobolize the dominator with our darkness, or we will have to dominate you in their stead."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 12, 2015, 06:42:58 pm
"No, we won't," Steeple says to Anton. "Unless you have the permission of him or his Sire, you will not do this. You overstep your dominion if you try."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 12, 2015, 08:36:51 pm
Anton shrugs,
"Then we shall have Sylvian use his art on Kiril, after all the servants are dominated. Is that proper?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 12, 2015, 09:53:06 pm
Heldric sighs audibly "And thus with a simple gesture the empire turned upon itself and fell to ruin." He intones as if quoting some ancient tomb of knowledge using his enchanting voice to ensure they all get the point he is making before returning to his normal voice "Ascertaining that each servant knows nothing is acceptable but I will not be dominated by another kindred, the use of other methods to tell the truth of the matter is more acceptable. If however I see this opportunity being misused or even suspect that is so, Andreas an I will be forced to act in a less agreeable manner."

He then retreats into a shadowed area to sit and streach out his overly long fingers.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 13, 2015, 05:39:54 am
"Wow..." Steeple remarks at Heldric's impressive tone.

"As I said before," he then continues, in regard to Anton's question, "and what Heldric eludes to with that impressive stage voice of his - is that it's not worth in-fighting and raping each other's will over. Let's enquire of the servants and leave the mater at that for good or ill."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 13, 2015, 06:48:16 am
Anton shrugs,
"Then we shall have Sylvian use his art on Kiril, after all the servants are dominated. Is that proper?"

"Brother, I must be misunderstanding. You can't possibly have just suggested that: after Lucien's servant dominates all the other ghouls, I allow sylvan to manipulate me with presence. While the rest of the coterie stands around and watches."

To Heldric and Steeple, he replies. "I will not allow my retainers to be abused by another kindred, or his servant."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 13, 2015, 07:23:04 am
Breaking his own silence, "Well, unless anyone sees another way of guaranteeing that no one here is a traitor, there is no other option!"

Daniel shudders for a moment. "The thought of it sickens be already but, frankly, if we allow a turncoat to frolic in our midst we'll receive a much worse punishment for failure from our sires than anything a Dominate of our own ability can do to us."

"I say, we let the guy check us. After all, it shouldn't be a problem if you have nothing to hide."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 13, 2015, 07:30:03 am
Kiril looks at Daniel.  "What the hell are you talking about 'punishment for failure?!'
Did you forget, we never told our sires about the translation tablet."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 13, 2015, 07:33:54 am
Steeple nods to Kiril, "While I believe it may foster undue suspicion on your part (should the others prove innocent of foul play), I fully support your decision to protect your retainers from the most unconscionable of molestation."

"My retainers however, I'm sure they wouldn't mind."

"BRING IN THE DAYWALKERS!" Steeple then screams loudly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 13, 2015, 09:14:58 am
"Lets go with the flow. We are all innocent until proven guilty. While i may not agree to having our servants forcefully interrogated we must still find it. The thing is worth fortune." Lucien said loudly and charismaticly to everyone. "If we are all as innocent as we claim there shouldent be a problem, right?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 13, 2015, 09:43:58 am
Anton nods.
"As I suggested it, of course I will act upon it." Anton states.

"We shall give the thief an hour, and then it will be over."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 13, 2015, 03:00:23 pm
Heldric casts vanish from the minds eye incase anyone is even still looking at him and stays unmoving in a shadowed corner. He has no desire to be further involved in the discussion and will observe the others reactions for now.

"Each to their own viewpoint and argument while ignoring the fact that those older than ourselves could easily have taken it simply to set us against eachother." He thinks while he watches
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 13, 2015, 03:38:27 pm
The cotterie finds nothing.

Each of the servants so brought forward is innocent of any wrongdoing.

The only ones who have not been examined are Kiril's, and Kiril himself. Carinus steps up to Kiril and whispers into his ear (whispers, that means you guys can't hear it, so don't respond to it like the last private conversation they had ;) )

"Kiril, i'm more than willing to go up there and tell the fools what they wish to hear if it will end this."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 13, 2015, 04:11:46 pm
"No.  It will not end this, because the culprit will not be uncovered. 
They will be forced to conclude that either one of the servants had sufficient willpower to lie, or that one of the kindred is responsible, and the debate will begin anew.

I will not allow Sherazhina to be subjected to that debasement; I will never allow my servants to be treated so disrespectfully."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 13, 2015, 04:14:44 pm
"You may protect Sherazhina, but Kiril, my friend."

Carinus places delicate emphasis on the word friend here, Kiril may get the impression the killer feels insulted - perhaps his implication that Carinus was a mere servant?

"I need no such aid."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 13, 2015, 04:15:43 pm
"Your brother is acting weird." Lucien says to Anton.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 13, 2015, 04:30:08 pm
"Of course not, Carinus." Kiril seems genuinely dismayed by the notion. "I did not mean to imply that you did.

Only that, were you to acquiesce, they would insist upon Sherazhina also undergoing their test, and I would no longer be able to resist on principle.

To them, it would appear as though I were suspiciously protecting her specifically."

He leans closer, lowering his voice even further.  "Do you perhaps have some reason for wishing to undergo their scrutiny?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 13, 2015, 04:30:35 pm
"It matters not. The thief is still not revealed, which is unfortunate. We will have to remain vigilant, but as Steeple has stated, we should not debase ourselves in search for the key."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 13, 2015, 05:14:36 pm
Steeple shrugs.

"Like I said - it doesn't really matter. We have what we need and this shouldn't drive us apart. We still win."

With that, Steeple thanks Nadia for cooperating with the others and heads outside to see how his village "(STEEPLETON!!! LUCIEN YOU BASTARD!)" is coming along.

'Hmm...' he thinks to himself idly as he wanders - 'I wonder if the Count would like to see the fight between Barabus and the war-beast?'

"You don't think he is too cultured for that do you?" Steeple asks Prince Maurice, taking the stone from his pocket and holding it up to the night sky.

"I mean, it could be fitting entertainment, but then I wouldn't want to offend his sensibilities."

"Oh, but what if our Sires are coming with him... Ooh, that could be bad... Maybe we should hold the fight before then. What do you think?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 13, 2015, 09:06:52 pm
Kiril looks at Daniel.  "What the hell are you talking about 'punishment for failure?!'
Did you forget, we never told our sires about the translation tablet."

After getting checked, he happily tells Kiril with an irritating smile, "Regardless of the tablet, a rat's a rat. If you don't stomp it while you can, it'll mess around until it ruins something really important. Don't need common sense (Or the merit!  ;D) to understand that."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 13, 2015, 09:39:57 pm
"Of course not, Carinus." Kiril seems genuinely dismayed by the notion. "I did not mean to imply that you did.

Only that, were you to acquiesce, they would insist upon Sherazhina also undergoing their test, and I would no longer be able to resist on principle.

To them, it would appear as though I were suspiciously protecting her specifically."

He leans closer, lowering his voice even further.  "Do you perhaps have some reason for wishing to undergo their scrutiny?"

"I suppose not." Carinus replies,

"Though I should have liked to test my will against the knight's."

Steeple shrugs.

"Like I said - it doesn't really matter. We have what we need and this shouldn't drive us apart. We still win."

With that, Steeple thanks Nadia for cooperating with the others and heads outside to see how his village "(STEEPLETON!!! LUCIEN YOU BASTARD!)" is coming along.

'Hmm...' he thinks to himself idly as he wanders - 'I wonder if the Count would like to see the fight between Barabus and the war-beast?'

"You don't think he is too cultured for that do you?" Steeple asks Prince Maurice, taking the stone from his pocket and holding it up to the night sky.

"I mean, it could be fitting entertainment, but then I wouldn't want to offend his sensibilities."

"Oh, but what if our Sires are coming with him... Ooh, that could be bad... Maybe we should hold the fight before then. What do you think?"


"The count? Oh, he would love it. You remember what the girl whose hair we shall drown in hedgehogs said, right? Vicious monsters with an excellent facade of humanity, he'd love the blood sports. Most elders would, I think. Some of them remember the gladiator fights in Rome, they feel nostalgic.

Vladivostok would have a grand old time, I should think. As long as you behave yourself well." Prince Maurice wisely counsels.

When Steeple is out of earshot of the others, Prince Maurice then gleefully says - "You cad you, you got away with it! Haha!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 14, 2015, 05:31:36 am
"SHHH! Not so loud," Steeple replies with a start, looking around to see who might have heard.

"Ehehehehe..." he then grins.

"So, yeah, a grand battle for the sires it will be! We must prepare a proper venue. Perhaps in the stone quarry ..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 14, 2015, 05:13:53 pm
After further questioning the cotterie is still unable to find out who stole the translation key, tensions run high among the members of the little group as suspicion amongst each other constantly grows.

On the bright side, construction has been completed and is even ahead of schedule - Indeed by the time their letter had reached their patrons, Sylvian was already at work on the second floor.

---

28th of October, 1198, 8:12pm
Birkau Castle
Tihuta Pass


Steeple had planned for a glorious revelry in which the workers and their families would join them in celebration to coincide with the coming of the Patrons, to better give them the fanfare he knew they would appreciate.

A small field had been cleared by the workers, where Barabus and Daniel's war beast have been chained for the arrival of the various elders. Drinks and blood had been prepared and the various people who had worked been brought onto the project, tired and content in their success thus far were all more than happy to take part in the celebrations (perhaps naively celebrating the impending departure of their undead masters?).

Celebrations had been going on for hours, blood, food and drink being plentiful.

By the time the crescendo of bells climbing the mountain was heard, the party was well into its ninth hour with little sign of letting up.

There were seven wagons in a train. Each was magnificently appointed.  Radu's servant Tiberiu stepped forth and began to announce them as they stepped from their wagons.

“Lady Arianne, of the Courts of Love!” Sylvian's eyes gaze lovingly on his sire as she steps delicately from her caravan, mortal servants accompanying her.

“Lord Sandor, Vovoide of Arad!” The Koldun exits his carriage unaided, briefly patting the massive war beasts he passed off as horses on their backs before searching the crowd for his childe.

"Lord Vladivostok, Merchant King of Hungaria!" The grim malkavian's appearance goes apparently mostly unnoticed - those who look upon him quickly look away - though whether because they had their gaze forcefully pushed away or because of fear at the sight of the most intimidating monster is a good question indeed.

“Lord Arnulf, King of the Wild Realms!” Arnulf looks approvingly at the revelry, the bestial ancient seems all too eager to join it.

“Lord Maleki, the Chosen of Michael” The hard-faced Nosferatu hides his deformities from the mortal crowd, but his gaze still bears the terrifying force of presence that it held in his natural form.

“Lord Basilio, the Elder, Prince of Sofia” the dark prince is not alone when he steps out, he is accompanied by a figure that Anton and Kiril know very well - Husayn Al-Fatim. Dark as a moonless night, the elder Assamite stands out against the other elders in the crowd. He has brown eyes and a curiously effeminate face. He looks more like a romantic lover than a killer. He wears dark, jewel-toned colors and dresses in the Turkish fashion. He wears his one weapon, a curved dagger, thrust through his sash. With a slight smile and eyes bearing lively intelligence, he turns his gaze from his friend and companion and looks with an approval similar to Arnulf's at the celebrations going on.

“Count Radu Bistri of the Council of Ash, Prince of Bistritz!”

The Count exited his wagon with no particular fanfare or pomp, but as he looked on the revelries an almost tangible wave of power radiated outwards from him.

Every mortal present could not help but bow before the master of this domain. Even among the cotterie, Anton, Steeple and Kiril alone are unaffected by the desire - Kiril can see that Carinus is in the same situation as him, but chooses to bow anyway. It might be wise to do the same.

When he stood before them be began to speak, as much to the mortals as to the cotterie.

“I am Radu. It was I who sent you on this quest to build for us a tower that I and the Princes of Transylvania would use as a shield against our enemies in the West. Each of you was chosen for your outstanding service to your masters, whom wish to call me friend. I was told to expect great things. I was told that in your hands all things were possible. Your sires were not wrong. I am honoured by your dedication! This tower, when finished, shall stand for all time, to show the might and beauty of this land, and you who have honoured me with your great works shall be rewarded in kind.”

The crushing force that pressed on the crowd is lifted. Radu's (rather uncharacteristic) display of strength is ended and the revelries resume.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 14, 2015, 05:40:03 pm
Lucien will wastes no time in going to his sire. "Welcome my Lord Sandor." He said with a happy smile and a slight bow to recognize his authority.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 14, 2015, 08:19:10 pm
Anton bows towards the count, confident with the knowledge that the man was unable to take hold of him with his art.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 14, 2015, 08:49:35 pm
Kiril, of course, bowed willingly to the count.

As the festivities resume, he heads toward Basilio.  Decorum dictates he maintain a certain amount of dignity, but any who know the nobleman would observe a barely-suppressed sense of joy at being reunited with his sire.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 14, 2015, 09:22:15 pm
Heldric is unable to prevent himself bowing but also had every intent to bow regardless, bowing to a person like Radu's upon their arrival is the best way to ensure short term survival in his presence.

Once the festivities begin again he immediatly heads to his Sire to quietly report the events which have transpired thus far, especially those of the wolf girl, the coitery making a dangerous deal in his absence and the missing key.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 15, 2015, 06:56:38 am
Of course Steeple bows with the rest in his flourishing manner. Then, once revelries resume, he scans the caravan for his own Sire.

"Maybe he's too busy to attend," Steeple hopes aloud to Prince Maurice.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 15, 2015, 07:15:10 am
After bowing respectfully to Prince Radu's Presence, Daniel listens to his speech keenly and then goes to address his sire.

"Thank you for your warnings; hopefully, this and more will repay the favor." He says with a smile.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 15, 2015, 03:41:03 pm
As the Cainites join their sires (and the Count), they find their attention quickly redirected as a servant comes forth with a plain wooden chalice - Lucien recognizes it as the chalice used on Kupala's night, when the Tzimisce would enact rituals to combat the evil spirits plaguing their lands, an item of great import indeed. Radu extends his right hand outward and his skin splits, a good amount of blood drips from his flesh into the cup before his flesh reknits.

“With our blood, we do consecrate this union of our Courts, as your patrons have wished. Each who has shown such honor shall be honored and rewarded.” – Radu.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 15, 2015, 04:22:22 pm
Lucien shrugged and took a gulp from the chalice. "Thank you, My lord Radu." He said with confidence, even though he did not really want to drink Radus blood.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 15, 2015, 04:49:03 pm
Steeple raises an eyebrow at Lucian's shrug.

'What sort of way is that to receive such an honor? With a shrug?!?' he thinks to himself, 'Some people have zero or less class.'

"A most gracious honor!" Steeple then bows to the Count, before taking a polite sip and bowing back once more to allow the others access.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 15, 2015, 09:34:21 pm
Knowing it would be impolite to act Heldric steps forward and bows before taking the chalice and pouring a mouthful of blood into his mouth without touching the chalice itself to prevent infection passing too easily. He then hands it back.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 16, 2015, 01:53:10 pm
If that's what Basilio wants, Kiril will comply.
(Personally, he thinks it would have been polite of Heldric to have waited & gone last. At least he made an effort to avoid contaminating the cup.)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 16, 2015, 01:59:36 pm
Anton nods, and follows the group, first bowing, and then drinking of the blood. He does wonder why Radu used such a simple chalice, however. He will have to ask about it to a tzimisce later.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 16, 2015, 07:03:17 pm
OOC: Sorry for late post guys, Late Wake up and Evil Teacher (*cough* Bambic *cough*) equals packed day.

BIC: Daniel looks at everyone drinking from the goblet and realizes that he just stared into space, having forgotten that he had to drink too. He quickly goes to the cup, takes the routine bow as a show of respect and takes a quick sip, a bit worried about what this new blood in his system might do to him in the future.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 16, 2015, 09:22:36 pm
Radu held the cup before each of the cainites, and each drinks, visions of power, prestige, and freedom dancing in their eyes.

“Now go to your patrons and sires, for they have with them the keys to your kingdoms.”

The coterie turned and met with their masters, in tents and in wagons.

---

Sylvian speaks privately with Arianne, the two walk away shortly

---

Malachite takes note of the information Heldric gives him.

"Yes, Marelle was Radu's wayward childe. It seems that you now owe a boon - regrettable, the bonds of prestation are rather stifling ones, but they keep our society held together. Pay it back as soon as you can, you don't want something like Vykos holding that over you. Never ignore a boon request either, doing so invites not only the wrath of Vykos but open disgust and loss of status."

In a lower tone, Maleki continues:

"A right bastard that one is. Nothing like his sire, or his sire before him, it's hard to believe that the Dracon's blood would lead to such impurities. But enough of him."

The elder Nosferatu had led Heldric away from the festivities and into the woods as they spoke. He dropped his disguise now, and his deformed visage is now plainly visible.

He smiles.

"You have come far since the last time I visited you, Heldric."

---

Vladivostok waits imperiously for Steeple to approach.

"I see you have succeeded." - Vladivostok states plainly. If Steeple didn't know any better, he'd think there was a note of surprise in the malkavian's voice - but no, what could surprise the madman?

"You are not as great a failure as I imagined. Perhaps you will amount to something after all."

---

Lucien sits across from Sandor inside the same tent where he met Vykos, Ennius provides the two with blood.

Sandor begins speaking after talking a cursory sip. Lucien notes that the vovoide looks tense.

“So, Lucien, you’ve succeeded in your task.” – Sandor

---

Arnulf embraces his childe vigorously and informally.

"A good welcome indeed! I see you've done well in building your castle, I am happy to see it."

---

Basilio greets both of his childer warmly. They all go into his wagon, a rather large and lavish affair with room for the four to sit. A satisfied smile plays across his lips as he speaks.

“I am so proud of you, my children. What you have done here proves to me that I made the right choice in bringing you under the shadow. To have agents within the Tzimisce courts is more than I could have ever hoped for."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 16, 2015, 09:34:17 pm
Heldric happily bows his head to his sire in thanks for the compliment, his sire was definitely someone who you didn't want to anger or dissapointing. Andrea's came to mind whenever he thought of failing.

"Unfortunately I was not present for the making of the deal but I shall endeavour to have the debt repaid will all haste, it is not somthing of my making but I shall see it through so it does not hang over me." He looks around briefly. "I believe I have grown since I left on this task but there is still much to do, what is your next task Sire?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 16, 2015, 11:29:47 pm
"Next task? Rule your city, shepherd your people, build the Dream. Prepare for the coming nights, for they will not be kind to us."

He goes quiet for a second.

“You seem much changed, Heldric. In truth there were murmurs within the court that this was too much of an obstacle for you, that perhaps you were not strong enough for the rigors it brings. I'm happy to see they were wrong about you.”

The rock of Constantinople looks at his childe with pride as he speaks, he is clearly very happy at Heldric's success.

"But enough of that. In a moment I will grant you your city, but first..."

He bites into his own wrist, and blood begins to drip down his arm.

"You must re-affirm your loyalty to Constantinople, to myself, the Triat of our empire, to Michael and above all the Dream. That I may know I can trust you with the future of our kind."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 17, 2015, 12:22:57 am
Quote
Basilio greets both of his childer warmly. They all go into his wagon, a rather large and lavish affair with room for the four to sit. A satisfied smile plays across his lips as he speaks.

“I am so proud of you, my children. What you have done here proves to me that I made the right choice in bringing you under the shadow. To have agents within the Tzimisce courts is more than I could have ever hoped for."

Anton nods.
"I am thankful for the opportunity, my lord. With more influence I am certain we will be able to spread Christ's Light throughout these pagan lands."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 17, 2015, 06:58:20 am
"My only hope is to some day attain the heights of 'normal' failure, my lord; moving as far from 'great' as possible," Steeple replies facetiously.

"And I have learned some things that might be of interest you," Steeple continues, not giving his sire a chance to upbraid him for his wisecrack.

"Vykos may have arranged for Marelle to harry our progress, so that he could step in and help 'solve' the problem, which he did, binding us to a boon of some kind with gold and emerald dragon rings."

"It's all very foreboding."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 17, 2015, 07:02:21 am

Arnulf embraces his childe vigorously and informally.

"A good welcome indeed! I see you've done well in building your castle, I am happy to see it."

Letting go of his sire, Daniel asks, "What will you do now? I am soon to be a Prince; surely there's something to make of what to do next."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 17, 2015, 07:37:03 am
"My lord, your praise more than we deserve."

Kiril goes on to tell Basilio about Myca saving them from Mitru; meeting Anatole and Lucita at the building site; finding the gold translation key; the others confronting Marelle; Myca showing up to save them from financial ruin and giving Lucien his ring; and someone stealing the key from the rest of the group.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 17, 2015, 08:07:53 am
"Indeed i have." Lucien replied with a smile. "You look tense, is something bothering you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 17, 2015, 10:33:08 am
Heldric finally smiles in his "it almost looks like his face is splitting but he wishes it was a nice smile" way. "Thankyou sire, and I will not dissapoint. I shall help spread the dream as we both desire!"

He kneels and drinks from his sires blood.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 17, 2015, 04:01:25 pm
The taste of his sire's ancient blood drives a slight thrill through Heldric, its potency almost drives him to try and take more...

Maleki heals the wound he'd made, and then goes on solemnly.

"Rise Heldric, Prince of the Siebenburgen, Ruler of Balgrad, Emissary of the Father and his chosen."

---

Sandor takes his time before replying. He answers in an almost dead tone.

"I am here to finally grant you your own domain, in a city called Shaasburg located on the Mures River, not too far from my vovoidate. But I must say, I am weary of granting it to you, for I fear what might come of too much power slipping into Radu's hands.” – Sandor.

---

A dark look runs over Basilio's face.

"Of course I will request copies of the translation key and the tablets for myself. Of course the Tzimisce keep on working to sabotage my ventures, the vovoides have wanted me out of their precious country for too long already. That they would try to destroy my alliance with Radu is typical.

But you must be mistaken about Marelle, she was given over to the ancient lord that resides over the Cathedral of Flesh, if she should be so unfortunate as to still live then her mind would be twisted beyond comprehension.

Yes, it seems Vykos has taken advantage of your situation - perhaps even caused it himself. Smart of him, you have something to learn from his maneuvering. Pay him back as soon as you can, don't want him holding that over your heads for centuries.

But enough of Vykos. You have both done well, and as promised, you will both be given just rewards. Anton, for your service I give you Kronstadt; the city holds a bastion of Teutonic knights, I thought you should appreciate the pool of soldiers to work with. Be careful that you don't draw lord Jurgen's attention, however. The blue blood might take offence if a bastion of his soldiers were turned into your servants.

And to you, Kiril, I grant seneschalship of my city of Sofia. Should I ever leave the city, you will rule in my stead, and when I am there you will serve as my voice and my arms."

---

Arnulf's deep laugh reverbs across the tent. He looks out at the festivities wistfully, a sort of hunger is felt in his voice.

"More? Of course there is more! You are a prince now, my childe. You have grown from the weakling cub to a fearsome beast worthy of my blood. When we finish here tonight you will go to Muhlbach, a growing metropolis within Transylvania, and you will claim the city as your own."

---

"So you failed to do anything until Vykos came to save you as you floundered, and only then realized that he was manipulating you? It sounds like Vykos did all the work. Perhaps he should rule Temechburg.

Nonetheless, you fulfilled the terms of our agreement, however tenuously. Temechburg has a lively marketplace, perhaps you could actually learn something of merchandising while you are there. All you need do now is partake of my blood so as to assure your loyalty."

Vladivostok bites into his wrist and lets blood drip down his finders. He holds out his bloody hand to Steeple.

"Don't do it." Maurice commands.

"Don't let yourself be bound to this sad thing."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 17, 2015, 05:54:17 pm
"Maybe.. maybe not..." Steeple shrugs, tilting his head and watching his sire's blood drip to the floor impassively.

"I did what needed to be done with what I had to work with."

"As for loyalty... I have demonstrated it (and will continue to do so) without the taint of synthetic compulsion."

Steeple then stands there, clearly not going to drink.

'By the gods Maurice!' Steeple thinks to himself - only his tremendous willpower allowing him to stand so stoically in the face of what will surly be the shit-storm of the century - 'I hope you know what we're doing!!!'
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 17, 2015, 05:58:30 pm
Quote
But enough of Vykos. You have both done well, and as promised, you will both be given just rewards. Anton, for your service I give you Kronstadt; the city holds a bastion of Teutonic knights, I thought you should appreciate the pool of soldiers to work with. Be careful that you don't draw lord Jurgen's attention, however. The blue blood might take offence if a bastion of his soldiers were turned into your servants.

Anton nods to his sire.
"The work of the clergy can be subtle, my lord. I thank you for granting me such a boon." Anton replies.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 17, 2015, 06:46:15 pm
If Lucien feels down at the lack of shown confidence in him he doesn't show it.

"And this is the time when i talk you into granting it to me anyway?" Lucien replied smiling. " I have faith in your abilities, and i know you have faith in mine. What else would be in this?" He gestures to the ouside where the tower is being built.

"And know this my dear sire, i dont have any intention of being anyones pawn in a game of chess. There is but one person i take any "suggestions" from and that is you. Let me your 'queen.'" He said with all charismatic points but he made sure to add "metaphoricly speaking ofcourse, i have no wish to be a real queen" he laughed slightly at the last Part.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 18, 2015, 01:08:43 pm
Another Kindred might have been dismayed.  His brother, (and most likely the others,) granted cities, princedoms of their own- theirs to rule and control as they see fit.
For Kiril, only stewardship, basilio's prize lackey, nothing of his own.

"I am honored by your gift, my lord."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 18, 2015, 02:51:34 pm
Heldric stands "Thankyou Sire, this will be a great step forward for us in spreading the dream. I have many plans that this new position will enable me to perform." He looks back toward where the others were. "Am I right to presume that the cities we have been given are all close together or is our small coitery being spread to the winds?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 18, 2015, 08:41:55 pm
"It's good to hear that you've learnt what subtlety is, Anton," the dark prince says, a twinkle of good humour in his eye.

"I am also glad that you hide your disappointment so well, Kiril. Fear not, I will not leash you as would a lesser prince, you will have power within my domain. Husayn has councelled that I keep you within Sofia - if not for myself then for your family, and I agree with him."

Husayn nods to Basilio as he is acknowledged.

---

Malachite considers Heldric's question.

"For the most part yes, you have all been made princes of the Siebenburgen, both because Radu has power there and because the cities were already free of a cainite ruler. Those who had claimants soon found themselves lacking."

---

Sandor considers Lucien.

"If you truly wish to assuage my misgivings, to be my "queen" in this grand game, so to speak, then swear to me a second oath in blood, that I know your love for Radu does not surpass your love for me."

---

Vladivostok's normally scowling face somehow takes a turn for the worse. It's almost as if the air around him darkens; madness creeps into his voice as he answers Steeple.

"I've raised a snake."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 19, 2015, 12:40:59 pm
"It is simply not my favored tool, my lord." Anton replies simply.

"And it is good to see another of Lord Basilio's allies here, Husayn. It certainly brings honor to us both."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 19, 2015, 01:58:57 pm
Lucien chuckles lightly at Sandors word. "I dont think thats possible personally." He replied. "But i know the strength of a blood bond. Very well. If thats what you think is wise."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 19, 2015, 02:46:42 pm
Daniel smiles for a moment, and then goes serious again. Princedom of a city? There has to be a catch.

"Was there something in the city I would rule that you wanted part in?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 19, 2015, 03:22:29 pm
"Hiss?" Steeple replies questioningly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 19, 2015, 09:36:03 pm
Kiril wasn't disappointed. Being of service to ones sire is always good.

"I appreciate your concern for my family," he bows slightly to husayn.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 19, 2015, 10:24:14 pm
Basilio continues then:

"With our business settled, why don't I see what festivities you've lined up for us this evening?"

---

The madness is more and more apparent as Vladivostock's tone rises.

"Worthless. You were worth less than the dirt of the grave you would have lied in had I not turned you, stupid as a newborn child and weaker than a mewling kitten. I give you the gift and this, this viper is what I am given?!"

An almost primal snarl escapes Vladivostock.

"I banish you from all of my domains under the moonlit night and the burning sun. Should you ever come near them again I will be waiting eagerly to strike the viper's head from its shoulders.

Your business ventures will begin failing. Perhaps forever. As my final parting gift, I give you this -"

Vladivostok darts forward, faster than a striking cobra. He grabs Steeple by the neck in an absolutely crushing grip, and brings the malkavian's face uncomfortably close to his.

"- remember it well."

Within his mind Prince Maurice screams. Steeple collapses.

When he wakes, he finds Vladivostok gone and the tent around him in ruins, as if from great physical destruction.

Looking down at his own body he finds that his clothes are torn and his body is covered in fang marks, he is missing chunks of flesh. Chunks that he soon finds are in his own mouth.

"Come on lad, get up lad, it's okay, he's gone now, he's gone..."

---

"Nothing but the obvious, of course." Arnulf replies.

---

Sandor smiles.

"Very well then Lucien."

His flesh splits along his arm, much like Radu's. Blood drips down onto his hand, which he hands over to Lucien.

"Come, be my queen."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 19, 2015, 10:46:27 pm
Anton expresses his distaste.
"If one can even call it that." He says with a grimace.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 19, 2015, 10:57:59 pm
"Oh really?"

Basilio quickly forms a wickedly sharp blade out of nearby shadows, and forms a circular Grail out of much the same. Cutting his hand he lets his blood cool into the cup.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 20, 2015, 05:35:23 am
Steeple wearily rises, uses Dominoe of Life to swallow all of the flesh in his own mouth, then burns some blood to heal the damage.

"I don't get it?" Steeple murmurs in confusion, "Farking lousy ass gift if you ask me. Do you think the man has any idea about such concepts as 'fun', 'humor', or even 'NON-ASS WHOOPING GIFTS?!?'"

"No, he does not!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 20, 2015, 06:45:00 am
Lucien smiles Weakly at him. "Please dont call me that. I used it as a metaphor." He said before grabbing his sires hand and consumed some blood.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 20, 2015, 01:34:43 pm
"Well, then. I'm content with this arrangement. So let it be."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 20, 2015, 02:23:58 pm
Kiril willingly partakes of the blood before passing the chalice to Anton.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 20, 2015, 02:39:44 pm
Anton drinks of his sire's blood, allowing basilio to dematerialize the goblet.

"It is... certainly not a festivity that I could condone, my lord."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 20, 2015, 02:49:38 pm
Anton, what is wrong with you?  Why do you have to ruin everything?
Our sire pleasantly asked to see the festivities we prepared for him, and you get that sour milk look on your face and tell him you don't approve.


"Anton," Kiril says, bright and brittle,  "Why don't you go and get those translations Lord Basilio asked for?"
Turning back to Basilio and Husayn, "I'll be happy to escort you, my lordships."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 20, 2015, 03:06:44 pm
Heldric nods at the reply from his sire "A network of cities controlled by princes owing a huge debt to Radu and who know eachother well enough from this past task. We shall be a powerful force to further the dream in time, it will be harder to separate us than it would if we were mearly squabbling candidates pushing their own merits and plans." He smiles again in his special way letting himself get uncharicteristicly happy for a brief moment "I look forward to what I can achieve!"

He then remembers himself and returns to his normal look "Some of my coitery have planned entertainment for the evening, a contest of sorts. I do not know if it will be to your liking but shall we attend?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 20, 2015, 03:20:53 pm
Anton, what is wrong with you?  Why do you have to ruin everything?
Our sire pleasantly asked to see the festivities we prepared for him, and you get that sour milk look on your face and tell him you don't approve.


"Anton," Kiril says, bright and brittle,  "Why don't you go and get those translations Lord Basilio asked for?"
Turning back to Basilio and Husayn, "I'll be happy to escort you, my lordships."
"That sounds wise." Anton says, nodding.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 20, 2015, 03:27:16 pm
What's the entertainment again? 

Oh, Fark.

It's those idiot fleshcrafters and their mutilated waste of a servant.

Shit, Anton actually had a point. He was going about it all wrong, but he had a point.

How am I going to make this not seem like barbaric insanity?

Farking Malkavians.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 21, 2015, 04:52:50 pm
"Are you okay Steeple?"

There is worry in Maurice's voice.

Steeple finds that his wounds are not healing properly - likely because they were dealt to him by his own fangs, dangerous weapons in any combat.

Before he can find Lucien or Daniel, he finds that he is bid over by Radu - naked, damaged self and all. The count appears to be waiting for him.

---

"Of course, i'm sure whatever your colleagues have planned will be wondrous."

Maleki goes with his childe to the Arena (Fade-out for Forge).

---

Arnulf and Daniel head to the arena for the "festivities". (Fade out for Prince)

---

The sweet taste of Sandor's blood invigorates Lucien. Sandor smiles when Lucien is done.

"I knew I made the right choice with you Lucien. Now come, I can tell you're eager to show me something. We can discuss your reign over Shaasburg later."

---

"Lead the way then, Kiril." Basilio says.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 21, 2015, 05:14:48 pm
"Indeed." Lucien smiles. "Let me lead you the way." He walked off.


Fade?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 21, 2015, 05:19:48 pm
"I will be." Steeple replies brusquely, irritated by his sire's outburst - or was it Steeple's outburst... odd, for some reason, Steeple could swear that the shredded tent had been insulting him in some manner not too long ago and that Steeple had to make an example of it. But that's just crazy. It was Steeple's favorite tent. No way it would insult him like that. It must have been Vladivostok's doing, instilling hateful rude thoughts into his favorite tent. That's just the type of thing that vindictive bastard would do - knowing how much Steeple had prized his marvelous tent!

Steeple then strides confidently to the count, making airs of dusting himself off - as if his torn clothing and bit-to-hell self was nothing more than a piece of lint he could casually whisk away.

"Yes my lord?" He asks Count Radu with a bow.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Sethaniel on April 22, 2015, 04:22:45 pm
"I'm sure it's hardly the quality of entertainment you're accustomed to, my lords," Kiril politely opines as he heads towards the "festivities."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 25, 2015, 01:22:27 pm
All the Cainites gather at the makeshift arena Steeple had constructed - all of them except Steeple himself and the Count. A raven sent by Radu to Heldric informs him that the Count is busy with other matters and that they may begin.

Barabus sits chained on one end of the arena, his hair is patchy and thin, his body thick and bulky; his teeth inhumanly sharp and his gaze strangely intelligent for the beast he's been formed into. He stumbles a bit as he stands, looking at his opponent as the others release it from its chains.

The warbeast that Daniel had constructed is an impressive affair; all it's hair has been removed so as to show off its massive rippling muscles, its teeth have been elongated into long, almost needle-like spines and its claws are viciously hooked. It's body, despite the lack of hair, is a dark, sleek black that would almost make one think it still had an infinitesimally light coating of fur.

It growls loudly at Barabus, a low grumble that makes some of the more queasy members of the audience move around uncomfortably. Sherzhina looks at the ghouls with disgust plain on her face - Carinus looks on with a mild interest.

Joseph holds something on his chest within his robes, where Anton knows the brother's cross is, and he closes his eyes, his lips moving in silent prayer.

Each of the sires ask their childes what, exactly, has been arranged for them.

---

"I wish for you to show me my castle. Come -" The count motions for Steeple to follow him through to the fort that they'd built. The revelries continue and no one seems to notice the naked, almost-ripped-to-pieces Steeple as they walk through the human crowd - which moves out of the way of the two vampires.

(Assuming Steeple does his utmost to show of the castle to Radu).

They walked through the finished first floor, Steeple showing the Count the many secret passages and hidden rooms that Zelios had designed.

Eventually they made their way to the cellar. There he revealed that a sub-basement was being dug out for use as cold storage and a stockade. Finally they came to the original staircase, now properly finished, and to the cunning-door that was still hidden within the well’s walls.

The chambers within were opulent. Where once there was hastily dug out hole now there was a series of three, two smaller rooms, one a den and library, ready to be stocked with its master’s books, the furniture was hand crafted and luxurious. The floor and walls were covered in carpets and tapestries. On the far wall was a small pit, heavily recessed and perfect for a fire.

The other room was a bed chamber, though where a bed might be in a mortal home, here stood a gilded sarcophagus. Upon which was a mural of the great inhuman battles fought by the Tzimisce to protect their homeland. This room was closed by a door that few mortal men could hope to move, and locked into place a by sliding bar made of the finest reinforced granite, from without the door was nearly invisible and further hidden by a tapestry hung over it.

The main room held a great fireplace, again, heavily recessed into the wall furthest from the other doors. There was a desk and many couches and carpets. The center of the room was dominated by a great table, one on which sat a map of the region.

“This is truly magnificent, Steeple. You have honored me, not just with this beautiful work of art you call my home, but in refusing to bow before your scheming sire, though I am sure it pained you.” - Radu
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 25, 2015, 02:52:02 pm
"I offered my unadulterated loyalty to him, untainted by magical compulsion," Steeple replies, "and he is the one that refused me."

"As such, he has banished me from his domain."

"I am as dust in the wind."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 25, 2015, 04:16:38 pm
"That would be Barabus, once a human ghoul belonging to Steeple." HE gestured to Barabus. "He talked back to him, and even tried to attack me." Lucien chuckles at that. "After that steeple gave me permission to turn the poor sod into that."

"A grand intelligent war beast, superior to his human form. The one thing he's lacking was the time to get used to  his new shape." He explained.

"And that, is Daniels creation." he gestured to the snarling thingy. "Its likely used to its new form since it hasn't changed much from its original. But it lacks any intelligence, but is likely more ferocious instead.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 25, 2015, 07:40:16 pm
Heldric sighs a little as he explains "As always there is a lot more to the story, but in short, we have two flesh-crafters in our merry little band and this is their competition of their craft. One turned a dog into a warbeast and the other a human into an intelligent war beast." He glances around the others "It is not my personal choice of entertainment but they seemed quite set on this spectacle.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 25, 2015, 10:44:33 pm
"This is Leopold the Great and Mighty God-Hound; but I call him Fluffy. I enjoy irony, you see..." Daniel's eyes wander as her reflects upon the beauty of Literary Techniques but soon returns to reality.

"Some might say that I was more humane in using an mighty hound from the wilds over a well trained ghoul for a beast; but in the end, I find that dogs are simply much stronger. Particularly because weapons won't be useful in this fight." Daniel explains. "This is a competition, you see. A game to discover who's Vicissitude is more powerful; Lucien or myself."

Daniel whispers to Arnulf, "If there's anything you would do to help me in this venture, I would truly appreciate it. After all, trading favors here and there should be trivial since we're both following the same quest to keep the expansions of the cities in check."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 26, 2015, 12:24:07 pm
"It is a.. game the fleshcrafters seem to take pleasure in. Something childish for the others to take pleasure in." Anton states.

"Unfortunately, more civilized entertainment was unavailable."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 26, 2015, 01:08:21 pm
Before the monsters are let free from their chains, Ennius goes to Barabus and commands that he fights and not flee once released.

---

Basilio looks on then, at the fight.

"Barbarians." He mutters under his breath - Kiril gets the impression it's for his benefit more than anything else.

"Quite a foolish pastime, yes - but they've earned it with what they've achieved today," Husayn mentions.

---

Arnulf looks at Daniel in what could almost be called shame.

"Do not sully the honour you've earned this day with pitiful requests to help save yourself from your own weaknesses."

---

A low growl escapes Malachi's throat.

"It's because of Fiends like these that we are so reviled, Heldric. They are monsters, as much or more so than the monsters they create. They are the reason the Dream is so hard to keep, as they gnaw at it's foundations. But let them have their games today, for what they do they are reviled, for what we do we are worshipped."

---

"An interesting venture, I will watch attentively; I have no doubt in your success," Sandor says.

---

The Count smiles.

“While I am not permitted to granting you the domain your sire would have I can promise you a place to call your own. Should you choose to stay on and administer the building of my Castle I would grant you the right to use it as your own in my absence, even as your services would be required elsewhere you would always have a home here in this tower.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Daedalus on April 26, 2015, 01:57:19 pm
Lucien smiles at his sire then he turns to Ennius and nods. It's go-time.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: BerkaZerka on April 26, 2015, 03:07:49 pm
Steeple immediately perks up - "My lord, I would be honored!"

"There is something in these majestic peaks - that I was loath to think about leaving so soon. To stay and see this grand fortress come to full completion would be most welcome!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Not Aman on April 26, 2015, 04:06:28 pm
"I can only hope that you two are not offended by it." Anton states.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Forge on April 26, 2015, 11:34:41 pm
Heldric nods along "Even if they are barbarians and monsters, we can use them to help further the dream. That is so long as we can keep them in check so they do not weaken the foundations."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Prince on April 27, 2015, 08:53:42 am
At least I tried; you never know when luck will happen to shine on you after all.

"Pardon me, sire." Daniel replies apologetically.

Daniel looks to his hound with curiosity; wondering if he made the animal dangerous enough to devour its combatant. Daniel licks his lips excitedly.

The time has come; let the violence begin.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: Dark Tides Rising
Post by: Drakilian on April 27, 2015, 10:01:41 pm
Radu motions Steeple towards him.

"Come then, let us revel in our successes!"

Radu and Steeple arrive at the arena just in time to watch the fight between the two monsters - Radu asks no explanation and Steeple gives none.

---

Barabus steps forward. Everything feels wrong.

Kill the Master. Kill the Shaper. Kill the Knight.

He repeated it to himself every day, every night, every waking moment that his flesh and bone was warped by that hideous monster that cowered behind the man with the powerful voice.

Remember who you are. Barabus. The strong, the terrifying, the ravaging, your name is Barabus.

They release the hound on the other side of the arena from its chains. It lets out a savage roar.

They try to destroy me with such pitiful things. They try to scare me. Fools, nothing will scare me, not anymore.

It begins circling the arena, edging towards him. He circles with it, his long clawed paws leaving scratches in the dirt.

The old master was good. He was so very terrifying, so very powerful, so very mad. But he would never do something like this. He would kill horribly, but he would kill.

It snarls at him and darts forward. He moves backwards and stumbles, forgetting  again that his legs are angled differently. The thing sinks long, spine-like fangs into his neck.

Maybe this is their way of showing mercy?

It jerks its head back, and Barabus feels the blood leaking into his lungs as his throat is ripped open.

Kill the hound, fight back and do not flee.

No, of course not. They would never have mercy on me.

The thing's teeth are stained with his blood. Dark, beady eyes look at him. Dull. Angry. Vicious.

I will kill you, beast. They give me no choice.

Barabus retches the blood in his lungs into the thing's black eyes, and he cannot see them anymore. He moves to the side, knowing it would lash out blindly in fear.

I am not sorry for this.

As the thing moves forward, exposing its side, Barabus sinks powerful teeth directly into it's back. He locates the spine easily, the lack of fat and fur outline it for him. It jerks around in pain and rage. He almost loses his grip.

But they will be.

Barabus harnesses the strength of his old master, of the ancient blood that still flowed through his veins. He pushes down with his claws and he jerks his massive head and jaw upwards.

Kill the Master. Kill the Shaper. Kill the Knight.

The thing's spine tears slightly off its back. It slumps over and begins twitching, no longer able to move.

My name is Barabus.

The wound at his throat has begun to knit closed. He looks down at the beast and sees its eyes through the blood, asking him for the mercy he's been denied.

I am Barabus.

Barabus is careful to sink his teeth exactly where the beast had sunk his own.

The thing takes a while to die.

End Chapter 1