I'm currently running a Vampire the Masquerade chronicle using the 5th Edition rule-set for a small group of fellow role-players. These are the chronicles of their adventures.
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The now obligatory warning bit - Unlike my other RPG write-ups this one will contain swearing, sexual references and other references that might offend. If you can't tell the difference between real peoples opinions and grown-ups role-playing predators who crave blood then this probably won't be for you. There are however a list of potential triggers listed before the introduction. I've also used actual photographs to represent some characters which I'll give acknowledgements to at the end if I've any idea who they are.
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The introduction to this campaign, the first story and all the other parts can be found at the following links and are in chronological order. If you'd prefer a summary of each session rather than read everything then there's a more detailed link page HERE as well as links to the first episode of each story in the blog sidebar.
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Chronicle One - 'Infiltrate L.A.'
Welcome to L.A. - Introductory Session
Story One - 'Three Murders' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Interlude Session - One
Story Two - 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part One, Two, Three, and Four
Solo Session - 'The Neillson Library'
Story Two Continued- 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part Five, Six, Seven and Eight
Story Three - 'Becoming Baron' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Gather'
Story Three Continued - 'Becoming Baron' - Part Six, Seven and Eight
The now obligatory warning bit - Unlike my other RPG write-ups this one will contain swearing, sexual references and other references that might offend. If you can't tell the difference between real peoples opinions and grown-ups role-playing predators who crave blood then this probably won't be for you. There are however a list of potential triggers listed before the introduction. I've also used actual photographs to represent some characters which I'll give acknowledgements to at the end if I've any idea who they are.
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The introduction to this campaign, the first story and all the other parts can be found at the following links and are in chronological order. If you'd prefer a summary of each session rather than read everything then there's a more detailed link page HERE as well as links to the first episode of each story in the blog sidebar.
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Chronicle One - 'Infiltrate L.A.'
Story One - 'Three Murders' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Interlude Session - One
Story Two - 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part One, Two, Three, and Four
Solo Session - 'The Neillson Library'
Story Two Continued- 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part Five, Six, Seven and Eight
Story Three - 'Becoming Baron' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Gather'
Story Three Continued - 'Becoming Baron' - Part Six, Seven and Eight
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Chronicle Two - 'Foothold L.A.'
Solo Session - 'Hostile Takeover'
Story Four - 'Countdown' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Five - 'The Missing Chantry' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Anaheim Assassination'
Story Six - 'A Meeting of Barons' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Seven - 'The Carmelita Situation' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Eight - 'The Blount Sisters' - Part One and Two
Story Nine - 'Blood Money' - Part One, Two, Three, Four, Five and Six
Story Ten - 'Anathema' - Part One and Two
Story Eleven - 'Predators and Prey' aka 'The Blount Sisters' - Part Three
Story Twelve - 'Aftermath' - Part One and Two
Story Thirteen - 'The Messiah Complex' - Part One, Two, Three and Four
Chronicle Two - 'Foothold L.A.'
Story Four - 'Countdown' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Five - 'The Missing Chantry' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Anaheim Assassination'
Story Six - 'A Meeting of Barons' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Seven - 'The Carmelita Situation' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Eight - 'The Blount Sisters' - Part One and Two
Story Nine - 'Blood Money' - Part One, Two, Three, Four, Five and Six
Story Ten - 'Anathema' - Part One and Two
Story Eleven - 'Predators and Prey' aka 'The Blount Sisters' - Part Three
Story Twelve - 'Aftermath' - Part One and Two
Story Thirteen - 'The Messiah Complex' - Part One, Two, Three and Four
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Chronicle Three - 'Incursion L.A.'
Chronicle Three - 'Incursion L.A.'
Solo Session - 'A Gathering of Roses'
Story Sixteen - 'The Southern Solution' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Seventeen - 'The Baker Disappearance' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Seventeen - 'The Baker Disappearance' - Part One, Two and Three
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Interlude Session One - After Griffith Park
Interlude Session Two - Divide and Conquer
Interlude Session Three - On the Brink of War
--------------------Chronicle Four - 'Conquest L.A.'
Interlude Session - Recon
Interlude Session - Damage Limitation
Interlude Session - The Killing Spree
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Michael Tomassio - Toreador, 'Baron of the North East'
Vincent 'Vin' Ghast - Brujah, 'Constable'
Dr Daniel Matthews - Banu Haqim, 'Fixer'
Hope Romero - Gangrel, 'Census Taker'
Mr Hertz - Nosferatu, 'Seneschal'
Vincent 'Vin' Ghast - Brujah, 'Constable'
Dr Daniel Matthews - Banu Haqim, 'Fixer'
Hope Romero - Gangrel, 'Census Taker'
Mr Hertz - Nosferatu, 'Seneschal'
The Storyteller
Garreth - Everyone else...
The player characters stats and backgrounds can be found HERE should any-one be interested, but be warned that the page is usually several stories ahead of the most recent write-up and may contain some spoilers.
There's also some minor 'house-rules' HERE that have occurred as we went along.
If I think something needs a bit of out of character explanation then those will get a storytellers note that will helpfully be in red. Where particular NPC's have a mention in a faction profile you will be able to reach it by clicking on their name or faction beneath their picture.
Trigger Warnings for This Session: Blood (Obviously).
Introduction
The meeting between Marius Walker, Baron of Downtown and Hank Boyd, Baron of the Crypts Sons, was violently interrupted by an alliance of Sabbat and Crypts Sons. These were led by Hank's traitorous lieutenant, Kayne Lowe and a kindred suspected to be Consuela Maria Martinez, leader of a Sabbat pack known as ' The Killing Spree'.
The assault was repelled, in no small part, thanks to a number of safeguards put into place by Michael Tomassio and his coterie which gave them advance warning of the enemies approach.
Scene Twenty Six - The Enemy of my Enemy
The coteries sweepers from in it's own barony, those summoned by Marius and allies from nearby domains have successfully exterminated the remainder of the kindred and ghouls from the Crypts Sons and Sabbat assault. This unprecedented alliance between an Anarch domain and the Sabbat has however raised a number of questions.
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| Aegis Reclamations - Special Projects Division |
Hank's escalade failed to survive the initial onslaught and the rest of the coteries vehicles, including Marius's car have damage of various kind ranging from dents and scratches to bullet holes. With this in mind the vehicles of Aegis Reclamations have been accompanied by several vehicles from Marius's own fleet. Mr Hertz has also had his gang connections send several cars to pick up the coterie themselves.
Marius has suggested that the group adjourns to Hallowbrook, his own base of operations in order to continue their interrupted meeting.
The coterie decided to take the vehicles provided by Mr Hertz. Still not entirely comfortable with accepting anything from Marius, Hank had borrowed one of the coteries vehicles.
'Zipper' and 'Rose' - Caitiff Custodian's of the MacNeil System
Michael messaged Zipper, the coterie's hacker, who controlled the so-called MacNeil system on their behalf. This gave them access to the majority of the cities police databases and was an updated version of the very system used by Jeremey MacNeil when he was effectively the Baron of all Los Angeles. Acquiring it had involved many difficulties but it had proven to be an invaluable aid in maintaining the Masquerade.
Zipper kept the system up to date while his Sire 'Rose' handled any other issues. He was instructed to muddy the waters of any police investigation into their recent battle and make sure any reports on the matter "Got lost in the system..."
Michael also noted that Daniel was unusually quiet and withdrawn, even by his recent standards. Daniel merely replied that he "Wasn't hurt..." but "Had a lot to think about..." Michael was empathic enough to know when not to push. This was one of those times.
The rest of the journey was spent in a slightly uncomfortable silence. Michael was actually relieved when the journey was complete.
Scene Twenty Seven - The Past and the Future
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| Hallowbrook House - Marius's HQ |
Michael picked up from Hank's demeanour that he'd never set foot in this building before. He was clearly uncomfortable which was understandable considering he was now in the lair of one who he had considered a rival at best and an enemy at worst, not three hours before.
On entry you are each escorted to one of the buildings 'dayrooms', where cleaning facilities are available. In each of your rooms is a selection of clothes in both your sizes and preferred styles. Apparently the requirement of a change of clothing is common enough with Marius's guests that his people are prepared for such an eventuality. Why? is probably not a question you want an answer to given the circumstances surrounding your own current conditions.
Each of Marius's guests availed themselves of the facilities and clothing provided. In Michael's case the clothing was slightly lower quality than he was used to, for the others it was significantly better.
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| Leanna - Duskborn 'Shepherdess' of Marius's Herd |
The mistress of Marius's herd owes him a life boon though being in 'The Fixers' inner circle does have other advantages which somewhat make up for this most significant of all kindred commitments to another of their kind.
Each of his blood dolls wore a distinctive necklace with two red gems styled as blood drops at the side of their neck. To those in the know this gave them a certain measure of protection as kindred tended to steer clear of other vampires ghouls and herd though 'mistakes' still occurred from time to time.
Michael and Vin had noticed that female Blood Dolls provided by Louis Fortier's Mistress and most favoured childe Catherine Du Bois all generally wore a choker with a similar motif, though theirs contained a single red gem. Catherine's male blood dolls tended to have this symbol on either a cufflink, or ring depending on their attire. Marius's blood dolls were exclusively female so this variation was unnecessary.
Those coterie members familiar with the Camarilla were aware that symbols of ownership were quite common and took many forms. The Anarchs would undoubtedly look down on this tradition though their own culture of marking territory with graffiti of hidden meanings was more or less the same system, just less formal.
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| Sarah - Ghoul of Vincent 'Vin' Ghast |
Daniel immediately sent away the blood doll provided for him. He had no desire for company and besides which his system was still full of the vitae of Kayne Lowe, who he had diablerised to effectively end the Sabbat ambush. Hank also turned the provided vessel away. Not because he felt no hunger, but rather because he still hadn't even a small measure of trust in his host. Who knew what might have been introduced into the blood dolls system?
Once they had seen to their individual needs they were each escorted to meet Marius who had chosen to host the continuation of their interrupted meeting in his indoor garden.
The garden recreates a forest clearing containing a stone altar and several stone pillars engraved with scenes that those of you with occult knowledge of kindred history recognise as events featuring Lilith, the Dark Mother and others which are representative of significant tales from Gangrel oral history of their antediluvian Ennoia.
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| Marius's Rooftop Garden and Temple to Lilith |
Daniel noted that several of these stains were no more than a week old and all were definitely caused by spilled blood.
The armoured shutters that shielded this area from prying eyes had been raised and the group were granted a spectacular panoramic view of the city blocked only by the nearby Venture tower, the tallest structure in Los Angeles at ninety nine floors.
"I think that some of what has occurred will become clearer if I begin with a bit of a history lesson." Began Marius, in a slightly patronising tone.
"By the time of the disastrous Sabbat siege of L.A., Mohammed al-Muthlim was already a force to be reckoned with in the New York Sabbat."
"
One of Xaviar's packs, referred to as 'The Unseen' was attempting to keep an eye on him but available information was somewhat limited."
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| Flynn Jacobs - Gangrel Pack Leader of 'The Unseen' |
"When the siege began to unravel, Mohammed suddenly found himself and the remains of his War Party attacked by a gang of blood-mad Brujah who were distinctly unhappy about the invasion. Thinking quickly, Mohammed, who apparently had not yet been seen, snuck around behind the Anarch mob and then helped attack his own pack."
Michael noted that Marius seemed to find this amusing.
"With the help of the Brujah, Mohammed slaughtered his former companions. When it was all over Mohammed found himself to be a hero of the young Brujah he had "supported." He stayed with the Brujah side, meanwhile helping as many of the Sabbat to escape from L.A. as possible."
"The Sabbat, however, still reeling from its defeat, chose a very cautious course. Mohammed's instructions were to wait, avoid detection at all costs, and slowly build up a coterie of loyal followers. Which he did. He was making no secret of his desire to expand his barony, specifically eastward and southward, but was giving it the appearance of a normal kindred landgrab, rather than the prelude to another siege on behalf of his real masters."
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| Salvador Garcia - Brujah Anarch Revolutionary Leader |
"I have no idea what that deal was, but it eliminated two problems at the same time so was certainly strategically sound." As far as Michael could tell, Marius was being honest. Daniel was far too distracted to really pay attention.
Marius then turned his attention to Hank. "Of course your own escape, facilitated by Gary Golden, was unforeseen but as far as I was aware, you had no Sabbat ties or leanings so your assumption of leadership kept the balance of power nicely stable. Plus I don't kill Barons except in self defence, and no, I don't see my desire to kill your predecessor to be a contradiction considering what he actually was. When it comes to the Sabbat my personal code becomes extremely flexible."
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| 'Gorgeous' Gary Golden - Nosferatu Defacto Baron of the Warrens |
It was usually Daniel who had questions but this time he said nothing. He was standing at the far edge of the central part of the garden and had no interest in anything but his own failure to control the urges for which his clan was rightly notorious.
As no-one spoke, Marius continued with his oratory.
"The packs I had stationed in Priss's domain have eliminated the Sabbat/Crypts Sons alliance and then, as I agreed, all but one withdrew to Priss's territory. The remainder was tasked with discovering the fate of Hank's few remaining followers."
He addressed Hank directly once more. "Given the circumstances I had no time to ask your permission to enter your domain in such a manner, for which I apologise. However, I believe my actions were necessary. Especially considering what I discovered."
Hank's focus on Marius became absolute at this point. Michael hoped that Marius's discoveries justified his actions or his and Hank's rivalry could become even worse than it had been before the meeting in Pasadena.
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| Deacon - Brujah Crypts Sons Emissary |
"Unfortunately, given Michael's entirely justifiable call for aid, many other Barons are aware that a large and well populated domain in now effectively unprotected. therefore we need to decide what to do about that before other elements decide that it's too good an opportunity to miss. As it was Michael's planning, organisation and talent for selecting followers that meant the difference between us being trapped unsuspecting in a building where we would have effectively been fish in a barrel, and our survival, I defer to him for any initial views on how we should proceed. It is my belief that both I, and Hank owe him that much. Don't you agree Hank?"
Hank nodded in response. He was well aware that he owed much to Michael and his agents.
"I also would like to thank Vin for his timely improvised explosion. Lasombra capable of assuming the form they call a 'Tenebrous Avatar' are impossible to destroy without access to fire or sunlight and I had no way of creating either on the spur of the moment."
Michael detected that the last statement was, at least partially, a falsehood. He was hard-pressed to work out exactly what rang untrue about it, but there was definitely something that bothered him.
It seemed that the floor now belonged to Baron Michael Tomassio.
Scene Twenty Eight - A New Direction
Michael briefly considered what would plausibly be best for the Free States while benefitting the coterie directly.
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| Henrique 'Hank' Boyd - Brujah Baron of The Crypts Sons |
Hank then interrupted, his frustration evident.
"I've rebuilt twice, I will not give up my domain to any others, If I need to defend it with a mere three kindred then that's what I'll do..." Michael had to admit that he seemed sincere, but continued nonetheless.
"As I was saying...the minimal personnel at Hank's disposal are obviously inadequate but we need to avoid repeating the previous problem of candidates for the embrace being selected from those who lack self-control. Especially as such is necessary for a kindred to maintain the masquerade in the age of the Second Inquisition."
Hank was clearly thinking upon what Michael was saying. The Toreador was hoping that Hank saw him as an impartial advisor, rather than a kindred with an agenda. So far, all the signs indicated that this was the case.
"Michael makes a good point." said Vin. "I prefer the direct approach myself but in the last few years I've learnt that it's possible to win, without your enemy seeing it coming, if you're smart enough. But, as has been pointed out, you can't do it all your fucking self. You need reliable people, people you trust. Your people need to obey out of respect. Leadership through fear just means you get stabbed in the back instead of finding out there's a problem via an actual conversation..." he then nodded towards Marius.
"'The Blossoms' in Downtown taught me that. It's much easier to fear someone you respect. The fear of disappointing you becomes a powerful motivator."
Michael decided to build upon Vin's comment as the Crypts Sons Baron seemed to him to have some respect for Vin's opinion too.
"You have El Hermandad next door, Priss to the North, and Harvey to the South."
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| Harvey Caplan - Ventrue Baron of The South Coast |
As Michael paused, Marius interjected.
"It is no secret that I favour Priss for a number of reasons. However Michael has spoken eloquently on his own reasoning for considering her less suitable than I myself do. I would point out however that she has infrastructure, forces and resources, Hank on the other hand has a seneschal, one guard and a selection of compromised havens. He needs support now, any delay will be taken as an opportunity by someone, even if it isn't me."
This at least was positive. Marius seemed to be implying that he wouldn't take advantage of the situation. Of course that didn't preclude Priss acting on her own, but it was progress at least.
Michael decided now was a good time to make the suggestion he'd been leading up to.
"I have skilled operatives who I might be able to spare on a temporary basis. Vin has experience with gangs and Mr Hertz is a highly proficient organiser of the less legitimate side of finance. With my people supporting Hank, his rebuilding process should be sped up. It also might put off any incursions by other baronies as they would be threatening the operatives of two barons, rather than just the one."
Hank looked grateful for the offer of help.
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| 'Priss' - Lasombra Baron of 'The Border' |
Marius gave Michael the impression that he was resigned to accepting his terms. Michael on the other hand was waiting for the 'but'. He didn't have to wait long.
"A conversation still needs to be had between Priss and Hank in order to clear the air. I would need to be sure that their antipathy towards one another didn't resurface and cause us the same issues over and over again."
Hank looked over at Michael who nodded in return. It was clear that Hank valued the Baron of the North-Easts council.
"Agreed." confirmed Hank. "Now let's discuss those files you mentioned before the Sabbat stuck their fucking noses into our business..."
Marius had mentioned to Hank during their first meeting that he had accumulated a number of files on his gang members. he began to elaborate.
"I know you're not happy that I had files on all your Crypts Sons neonates but if it's any consolation I have files on every significant kindred in the city. I'm not the only one who keeps track either, Louis Fortier's kindred database compiled by his scourge and spymaster Jax, makes mine look positively sparse in comparison. But I digress..."
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| Jean 'Jax' Thomas - Ancient Ghoul Spymaster for Baron Fortier |
Victoria entered the room, almost on cue, and handed Daniel, Michael and Hank a file each containing a list of names, criminal records and other biographical data covering a number of Crypts Sons mortal gangbangers, some significant members of other smaller gangs and a few other criminal elements from the Crypts Sons domain. There were exactly thirty two individuals listed.
"These would be amongst my choices were I inclined to secure a domain configured as yours has been. I have no connections to any of them except the two smugglers on the bottom of the list. Feel free to ignore those if you wish, but they are excellent candidates regardless. You have more than enough mortal 'muscle' at your disposal and as any neonates created by you and your followers would be Brujah, they would have access to physical abilities almost from the first night."
"Therefore I would prioritise 'smart' over 'aggressive'. Of course, you are going to need assistance to maintain The Crypts Sons domain while you rebuild. Priss would be willing to support you, no doubt at a price, but that is the way of our kind, is it not?"
Mr Hertz, Nosferatu - Concealed by 'Mask of a Thousand Faces'
Michael was still keen to keep Priss out of the negotiation process as much as possible, but as Hank had already agreed to an initial meeting with her then damage limitation was going to now be his best option. "I would like Mr Hertz to attend any meeting between Hank and Priss. I believe his perspective would help things run more smoothly."
Before Marius could interject, Hank had already agreed to the terms. Michael smiled in spite of himself. Much to his benefit had already been agreed and to any outside observer it would seem completely selfless.
Scene Twenty Nine - The Sword of Caine
Victoria coughed subtly and Marius addressed her directly. "Have I missed something?"
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| Scarlet O'Toole - City Gangrel Sabbat, 'The Misery Lords' |
"Her pack consisted of six kindred in addition to herself. Two Brujah, and one each of Clans Lasombra, Tzimisce and Gangrel. There's a Caitiff too."
Though he had recently been forced to order it's use, Michael disapproved of torture. He was also well aware, that Victoria was an expert in it's use, while Leanna, was also proficient in breaking others to her will. Between Victoria's hands-on techniques and Leanna's skill with brainwashing, they were very effective at information retrieval. He doubted that the 'perky redhead' that was in Marius's hands would have held out for long but breaking her in a mere few hours was particularly impressive.
"What else did she tell you?" asked Michael.
"One of the Brujah, Kole Jeffery is scouting near El Hermandad's domain, by the Anaheim border. The other Brujah, Allen Suarez is in Downtown, gathering information at Nines Bar, 'The Last Round'."
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| The Last Round - Nines Bar, Downtown |
"Sebastian Bradley, a Caitiff, is mingling with 'The Liberated'. They welcome any Duskborn and Caitiff who wish to join them and are probably the least politically savvy kindred in L.A. He's unlikely to learn much from them but you never know what they've picked up during their brief unlives."
Though Hank had no personal grudge with 'The Liberated', they were affiliated with Gloria Martinez and Allison Maller. Gloria was Baron of El Hermandad and therefore Hank's enemy by default. Allison was Baron of Anaheim and also Gloria's ally. Michael knew that Marius had his own allies within the duskborn community of L.A. and so would be as interested as Gloria and Allison in a potential Sabbat infiltrator.
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| Atarah - Lasombra Elder West L.A. |
All present agreed that this was a significant problem that needed to be dealt with promptly.
"I am open to suggestions about what we do with this information. Personally it goes against my nature to give away valuable intelligence for free. However given that the Sabbat are involved, an argument could be made to make an exception in this case. Opinions?"
Vin's first suggestion was simple, but would be effective. "If we tell Nines there's a Sabbat in his bar the problem will go away, real quick..."
"The same goes for the bastard on the Anaheim border." thought Daniel. "One call to Leo Frost with a location and he'd take them out on Gloria's behalf." He kept the idea to himself. The others could deal with this how they pleased. He was staying out of it.
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| Louis Fortier - Ventrue Baron of West L.A. |
Victoria interjected "It's a possibility we hadn't considered but is worth investigating. She's effectively out of our reach unless both Atarah and Baron Fortier agree to do something about it and that's something that we can't rely upon. Neither are the kind of kindred you can pressure into action."
After some discussion about the other two it was decided that Isaac Abrams, Baron of Hollywood would be informed about the possibility of a spy in his midst and that Marius would task Vinicius and the rest of his Gangrel Pack, 'The Hunters', to locate and eliminate the Gangrel Luther.
Vin had listened to the plans to deal with the Sabbat infiltrators but had an idea of his own.
"If this is a concerted effort by multiple packs of Sabbat then they must be reporting to some-one, right? Some boss whose directing their efforts? So can we find one of these bastards and then backtrack where they came from?"
Daniel thought about this for a moment then thought of a way of fine-tuning Vin's idea. "It might be better to let one of them think they've avoided the purge of the other pack members, then follow that one back to their masters. That way we'd have a current location, not a past one. My suggestion would be the Caitiff spy residing amongst The Liberated. He'll be the easiest to monitor by far."
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| Victoria Anne - Ancient Ghoul Personal Assistant to Marius |
"Our retrieval teams have discovered two vehicles packed with explosives amongst those bought into Michael's barony and another crammed with heavy weapons, no doubt provided by The Crypts Sons. Including the vehicle detonated by Vin, that makes three mobile weapons of mass carnage. Each more than capable of levelling the target structure."
"We believe that the plan was to tie you all up within the building with waves of shovelheads and expendable mortals."
"This would have been followed by chaos inducing suppressive fire and then blowing up the building around you all. The sacrifice of so many was apparently meaningless to them when weighed against eliminating three Barons of note simultaneously. Fortunately for us, the precaution put in place by the meetings host..." she nodded at Michael. "...meant that many aspects of their plan were disrupted. Had they not been, it is my opinion that the plan had a close to 90% chance of success. All present are talented in their own areas but there are limits to even the eldest's resilience..."
"Why not just drive in the explosive filled trucks straight away?" Asked Hank, who had lost several kindred gang members to a Camarilla planted car bomb a few months previously.
"Because..." continued Victoria. "They wanted to be one hundred percent sure that you three were occupied, weakened and exactly where they wanted you. If not for the advance warning and Vins delaying tactic, you would have immediately engaged the first wave, wouldn't you? I doubt you'd have had time to consider the possibility of them then blowing up the building around you and their own people..."
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| Consuela Martinez - Lasombra Sabbat, 'The Killing Spree' |
Marius had a final point to make, though it was not a reassuring one.
"I think it unlikely that the Lasombra I destroyed was Consuela Maria Martinez. If it was then her reputation for calculated and deliberate tactics has been overstated. More likely is that she had a childe or grandechilde altered via Vicissitude and put them in charge of the operation. She didn't taste like a three century old, ninth generation kindred at all..."
Only Hank was surprised by the latter part of this statement. Apparently Marius's penchant for serial diablerie was not common knowledge amongst The Crypts Sons.
Marius continued.
"It is likely that we still have a Sabbat problem though we have removed their primary ally within the baronies and should soon have eliminated their information gathering specialists from their hideaways in due course. That does however leave what remains of Consuela Maria's followers. Though if the information we have retrieved is correct then she was relying far more on Scarlet's 'Misery Lords' than her own 'Killing Spree' pack so may opt for a tactical withdrawal."
With that, Marius indicated to Hank and Michael that as far as he was concerned the meeting was concluded. As both had gained from the meeting, and with far less concessions made than they had expected, both decided that this was a good time to leave.
Both Barons and their agents were offered escorts back to their own domains. Before Daniel left, Marius walked over to him and spoke to him personally.
"Daniel? I'd like a word with you in private if your Baron permits?"
Scene Thirty - Redemption
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| The Children of Osiris |
Daniel admitted that to him it meant absolutely nothing.
"It describes a human soul between the stages of after-death and rebirth in Tibetan thought. It's also a very rare vampiric discipline. No bloodline possesses an affinity for Bardo, and it requires strict self-discipline and meditation."
"Although it teaches control over certain aspects of the undead condition, the Discipline of Bardo is not related to the mystical state of Golconda; while the Golconda is a realization and acceptance of the vampiric nature, Bardo is based in denial. The Children of Osiris deny the Beast within them by intensely concentrating on their Humanity and their state of death. Thus, if one of the Children or other practitioner was to give up his meditations and discipline, he would be once again assailed by his Beast."
Given his current situation, he indicated to Marius that he was intrigued.
"I can teach you this, but it is a closely guarded secret that no-one knows I have, especially the Children of Osiris, who as far as I know are extinct, wiped out by the Followers of Set. However it's possible I may be wrong, regardless should knowledge of this ability leak out then it can only have come from myself, Victoria, and now you. One guess who I'll be destroying should word be spread. I don't make idle threats so I hope you understand the gravity of what I'm offering you."
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| Lilith, the Dark Mother |
"Understand also that this is not a 'get out of jail free' card. I have mental disciplines that allow me to ignore many of the powers constraints, powers you haven't the age to gain. In short, you'll have to do this the hard way, through discipline and self control and as I have been forced to improvise some of the finer points of this 'path' extrapolated from the teachings of Lilith, the dark Mother, I'm afraid it will also involve a great deal of pain..."
"If you wish to accept my offer, you have twenty four hours to do so. If you refuse now then we will never speak of this again...."
Daniel, thanked Marius for his consideration and agreed to give the offer serious thought. Michael and Vin had already left, but they had left one of Mr Hertz's vehicles for Daniel to use. Daniel headed directly to his own private Haven. It had been a long night and all the kindred involved had a lot to consider, but Daniel especially.
After Daniel had left, Victoria spoke to Marius. "Daniel is a useful asset but your expending a lot of resources to prevent his downward spiral. Any particular reason why?"
Marius didn't speak immediately, as if he too was unsure. "Possibly because I'd like to spare him the fate that my own sire thought was all I was worthy of..."
Marius had respected what his own sire had tried to achieve, and hated him in equal measure for what he had required Marius to sacrifice in order to help him achieve it. Having met Xaviar many times before his ultimate destruction, Victoria understood Marius's feelings completely.
Interlude - Club Vesuvius
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| Isaac Abrams - Toreador Baron of Hollywood |
Several patrons and a number of the exotic dancers, who knew Isaac only as a media mogul and patron of the arts, attempted to gain his attention. He gave them the absolute minimum of his time as he was here to see VV on a matter of some importance, not pander to the ambitions of a selection of wannabe actors and actresses.
Once in VV's boudoir-like office, Isaac relaxed slightly and slid a piece of paper over to her.
"You know that I rarely ask you for favours but I'm afraid that in this case your help is essential."
Velvet picked up the note with a perfectly manicured hand. It contained a list of names, with an additional note next to each one.
"I need you to use your influence with those individuals in order to ensure that they are receptive to certain developments that further my immediate and future goals. My plans will be much simpler to accomplish with these safeguards in place."
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| Velvet Velour - Toreador Exotic Dancer |
"Gloria can be influenced by Velme, who in turn will be more than willing to help if I ask them nicely. Allison is also an old friend and I see no reason why she shouldn't be happy to acquiesce to such a reasonable request."
The next name intrigued VV.
"I haven't visited Catherine DuBois for quite a while, and I'm sure she will make some time in her schedule for me, but I'm curious. Why not simply ask Louis?"
"I'd rather he wasn't directly involved." Replied Isaac. "He might incorrectly perceive my goal as a threat to the Free States and put obstacles in place. I would not let him stand in my way, but I also wish him no harm. This seems to be the best solution."
VV merely nodded in response. She then tapped the next name with her fingernail.
"I've had very little to do with the South Coast, even before Harvey took over. The sand gets everywhere and I'm definitely not the kind of girl who hangs around the docks. Is this really necessary if I can already get Catherine's cooperation?"
"It's more as a backup than anything, but it would make me more comfortable with other aspects of my plan..." revealed the Baron of Hollywood. "...having access to the airport should be sufficient, but I'd be happier if sea access was also an option."
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| Shantelle - Gangrel Leader of 'The Water Rats' |
Isaac laughed in spite of himself. Velvets petulant tone and scrunched up face during her monologue on 'the feisty Gangrel' was oddly endearing. VV scowled at Isaac, then laughed herself. Seeing Isaac happy, made her happy too. Even if it meant sacrificing an evening to utter tedium.
She scratched a line under the next name.
"You really think this will work Isaac? Marius's preferences are sometimes a little extreme, but he can be an interesting distraction, and he will always visit me if I ask. Though what you require of him is no small thing. I can usually twist him around my little finger, but I doubt I can persuade him to do this merely to please me..."
Isaac had apparently considered this. "Other motivations are in place, but I think you underestimate your power over him. Beauty is one of his more easily exploitable weaknesses, and as you said yourself, if you call, he will come."
Velvet was absentmindedly looking for Velme's number in a desk drawer when as she noticed the name at the bottom of Isaac's list. The smile left her face abruptly.
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| Velme - Daughter of Cacophony 'First on Velvet's list...' |
Isaac had foreseen this possibility and despite his need, he wouldn't force her to choose between her loyalty to him and her friendship to one she felt kinship with. "I understand. Start with one of the others and I'll find another way to convince Michael, and I promise that no harm will come to him as a result of my actions."
Velvets mood lifted once more.
"Thank you. I'll begin straight away, unless there's anything else?"
Isaac merely shook his head, before kissing her affectionately on the cheek. It was the kind of kiss a father would give a daughter.
As he left he heard VV on the phone.
"Velme dearest. It's been a long time. If you're free this evening perhaps we could meet at that little club you like, I'd love to catch up...in an hour?...that's perfect..."
Satisfied that his plan was beginning to move in the right direction, he summoned his driver and returned to his shop for his second scheduled meeting of the night. Hopefully this would go as well as the first...
In Conclusion
I like to do a round-up of how the session went in these features but if you couldn't give a shit what I think then feel free to skip this bit...
This session was more or less one long conversation which meant I had a lot of hastily scribbled notes to try and compile into an accurate representation of the session. Hopefully it made sense.
Acknowledgements
“Portions of the materials are the copyrights and trademarks of White Wolf Entertainment AB, and are used with permission. All rights reserved.”
“Portions of the materials are the copyrights and trademarks of White Wolf Entertainment AB, and are used with permission. All rights reserved.”I've used pictures of real people to represent some of the characters and art for others so in no particular order Michael Tomassio is represented by Matt Bomer, 'Vin' is Scott Adkins, Dr Matthews is Mads Mikkelsen, Hope is Deborah Ann Woll, Mr Hertz is Charles Dance, 'Hank' Boyd is Michael Clarke Duncan, Marius Walker is Tony Curran, Zipper is Johnny Galecki, Rose is Thylane Blondeau, Leanna is Leeanna Vamp, Sarah is Natalie Martinez, Flynn Jacobs is Bryan Cox, Salvador Garcia is Antonio Banderas, Deacon is Michael Ealy, 'The Blossoms' are Holly Marie Combs, Rose McGowan and Alyssa Milano, Harvey Caplan is Harvey Keitel, 'Priss' is Sofia Boutella, Jean 'Kax' Thomas is Jean-Claude Van Damme, Scarlet Carson O'Toole is Natalya Rudakova, Atarah is Madonna, Louis Fortier is Eduardo Verastegui, Victoria Anne is Lilith May, Consuela Maria Martinez is Aubrey Plaza, Isaac Abrams is Gary Oldman, Velvet Velour is Ilona Lab, Shantelle is Marsha Thomason and Velme is Ruby Rose.
Everything else is from vampire related folders and searches and is as far as I know is all of the 'fair use' variety. If there's something that you feel should be attributed to some-one then feel free to let me know and I'll happily add an acknowledgement.