The Tremere Chantry

Unlike regular Traditionalists Chantries of the Old World, Lyle Kersten's Chantry breaks many traditions and stereotypes. Most chantries are held in Roman or Gothic churches or administrative buildings. It was most likely his intent (and he probably finds it funny too), as nothing in the Codex says what a Chantry should look like. The Regent Grand Hotel is incredibly modern and well equipped, it's wide, the ceilings are high, with internal phone lines, various light sources (with dimmers), comfortable furniture, clear and well thought colors, and neither dusty nor creepy.. It looks like a small university Campus.
If the Lord to whom Kersten answers has shown disapproval, it has never reached apprentices' ears, so maybe he agreed to this unorthodox way to rule on the city's Tremere (or maybe it's something else...).
The Chantry is, indeed, protected by magical means, but the glyphs and wards are well hidden, and due to the fact the Regent Grand Hotel has not had gloomy bloody rituals practiced nightly over 400 years, the Chantry has not that usual fear and magical ambiance one can find in other chantries.


The Chantry is divided in three levels ; -1, 0 and +1.

The Ground floor is the most important and most used by the Tremere, since it contains the Apprentices' rooms and the Library, and it's where Le Foyer leads directly (bottom entrance). Seven being a mystical number loved by the Tremere (the Council of Seven, seven circles of mastery to each rank...), Lyle Kersten chose to have seven Apprentices' rooms built, although back when the Chantry was built, he had only two Apprentices (one of which had chosen to have her own haven long before). Better have too much rooms and not enough, certainly.
The Library contains many Tremere specific tomes on Thaumaturgy, most of them being on the Path of Blood, the Lure of Flames, the Telekinesis and most common rituals, and occult books on various subjects (mostly Kindred history, clans, Camarilla laws and random knowledge on other surnatural creatures), but also "normal" literature to study or enjoy ; essays of many classical authors like Aristotle, Plato, Jean Bodin, Nostradamus, Copernicus, Racine, Lafontaine, Bauer, Zola, Voltaire, David Strauss, Freud, Nietzsche, Proust, Baudelaire, Franklin, Anne Frank, you name it, Corinna has it. There are also theater plays, first editions, rhetorical exercises, methods on learning languages, scientific methods, historically relevant books (there is a mein kampf* exemplary, the little red book, the green book, a Bible, a Koran, a Torah, a lot of books on people interpreting them in all ways, a few Canon texts that are not part of the Bible, Mormon texts, Jehova's Witnesses texts, Buddhist legends, Taoism, Shinto..), and more recent books like politician and philosophical essays, university students' mémoires, dissertations, as well as more recent fantasy novels (Tolkien, Anne Rice, and yes, Stephenie Meyer's books haunt the Tremere Library, as "it's great for the Masquerade and to mock the Hunters").
Under the direct and possessive authority of Corinna Ansons, the Library is well organized, but since Corinna is the newest in the city, she's the only one who actively studies. Lyle is more of the experimental avant-garde researcher (and gives her sometimes new books to sort), Jean-Pierre had never been truly interested (however he does enjoy reading classical and a bit more obscure books for his own pleasure), and Claudia quit as long as she had reached a circle of mastery high enough so the clan would leave her alone.
The TV has cable and has also many foreign channels available. There is also a good collection of documentaries and tv-series on the hard-drive attached to the box that receives the numerical tv signal.
The "dinning" table which is used for everything but dinning usually has the latest newspapers and Tremere and Camarilla correspondence on them.
There is a white board right next to the entrance door where the Tremere puts in notes to their fellow clan mates, as well as planning or random messages. Right next to it, there is a pin board where an exemplary of the Tremere Oath printed has been put up, with a hand written note by Kersten saying "What is not forbidden is allowed". There are also a list of phone numbers ; the Prince's, the Primogen's, and each of the Tremere, as well as how to reach internal lines in the Chantry.


*I want to make very clear that that book should burn in hell as well as other nazi ideals, but due to Tremere history and because I believe "never again", I'm naming it, as it's part of our history, therefore it's part of the World of Darkness. If you guys have a chance to read Charnel Houses of Europe, the Shoah, which is a complement for Wraith the Oblivion -the WoD game where one plays ghosts-, go for it.







The laboratory, which is the -1 level and was certainly a part of the wine caves for the Hotel, looks nothing like a medieval alchemist' laboratory. Lyle refers to it as his "collaborative open-space" with a smile. Too much Silicon Valley style management got certainly into his old bored brain.
The drawers and different closets hold a good amount of beakers and laboratory flasks, both full and empty of many well ordered chimical solutions, as well as the most random props for thaumaturgical rituals or training (bat wings, herbs, snake venom, silk ribbons, stakes, ritual daggers, cristal glasses, a few gems...). The fridges hold a good amount of spare blood (kindred vitae samples but mostly human bloodpacks) and a certain number of components for thaumaturgical rituals that have to be conserved. The stove, as "to get rid of evidence", is also the source of warmth and regulates the humidity of the room.
There is a specific zone with a raw stone floor for Tremere to perform rituals, especially the Purity of Flesh.









The first floor (+1 level) are regular hotel rooms of the Regent, except they are never rented to kine. They are accessible to the staff of the hotel (who think they are rented permanently to , but they do not come often, except for dusting once in a while. One of them is certainly used by Lyle, but the others are either for guests or other purposes. They all have a view over the Comedy Plaza, and they are the only part of the Chantry with windows.

The first thing Corinna does after opening the package and putting the paper aside is eye the envelope curiously before setting it aside aswell. She then takes a close look at the first of the books, the one with a soft cover, and makes quite a face when she sees what it's about.

Technomancy, is it? Whatever this abomination of Thaumaturgy is called, she wants to have nothing to do with it - at best only what is necessary, such as taking a look at the first pages of the collection of treasties so she can file the whole thing correctly. The book is put aside aswell, together with the black silk separating it from the other one.

The sigh she let out upon discovery of the first book's content is nothing compared to the shocked scream that now escapes her mouth before she quickly muffles it. A scream of pain, nay, agony - if she were still capable, she certainly would fall unconscious right now.

"Blasphemy!", she whispers, her voice still shaking, meekly, scarcely above the audible level, even for Kindred. "He can't be serious about this! That ... that could be considered a breach of the Masquerade, couldn't it!?"

As she hears steps approaching, she quickly puts the black silken cover over this abomination of a book again and opens the thinner one, so that when he enters, Griffin sees her paler than usual but reading that which she almost considers acceptable compared to what sinister schemes the Regent obviously had - and has! - with that devilish woman and her so-called 'literature'.

Supressing a sigh as she can't get rid of the 'book' while he is still in the room, the Tremere lays the softcover down once more and turns her attention to the letter. For a second, she hesitates in opening it, but she can't help herself - she must read it, seeing as on the outside, it isn't even directly - or, rather, only - addressed to the Regent.

Even if the letter itself is. Still, she opened the envelope, so the mischief is already managed. Continuing to read until she is finished, Corinna puts a good deal of her attention to retaining her outward appearance of calm and earnest behaviour, not wanting to lose face with her clanmate Griffin, especially considering that he is one of the local Harpies - though she'd never expect him to humiliate her, especially not publicly. Still, you are better safe than sorry.

Sighing very lowly, she folds the letter again, putting it back into the envelope and laying it on top of the black silk before she stands up to put both the treatsie on Technomancy and Griffin's book back into the correct shelves. Corinna doesn't pay heed to the ... other 'book' until the other Tremere has left the library again, upon which she will take it - only touching it with her fingertips as if it is something dirty - and quickly put it to the other ones the Library contains, much to her chagrin, but of course she never complained about it.

Both the black silk and the packaging itself go into the waste bin, then she goes back to her usual labor - taking care that every book is where it should be and then working on the two copies of her Liber again, sitting close to the Library door, the old tome and the new papers spread out on the first table, covering it fully. The envelope is on the second table of the room, lying with the address to the top, and waiting for the Regent to come and get it.

One could swear one can hear Kersten laughing somewhere. No wonder why he gave the package to Corinna, it, indeed, exploded into her hands !

Jean-Pierre walks slowly, his eyes staring at the different books and categories. He's not as used as Corinna to the Library, for obvious reasons as she is the librarian of the Clan, however it's clear he enjoyed having read most literature present, from the classics to occult books. Corinna's trained eye allows her to see the Harpy doesn't stay long in front of everything that has to do with Cainite history or the Disciplines.
After a few glances to what he seems to consider an unusual attitude by his clanmate, he finally allows himself to talk to the Librarian. He doesn't look at her just yet, as he is still looking for a book on a specific subject.
"Something is troubling you, am I right ?"

Even if the Tremere speaks in a very low tone of voice, in respect of the library, he could surprise the Librarian, not because he spoke but because the few times he had done so in the past were only to ask for specific tomes to borrow, or to indicate where the Regent was when important Tremere correspondence arrived _the answer being most of the time "certainly in his room", which obviously lead to the correspondence not being important enough to disturb the Regent upstairs (bad for one's ambition into ascending the Pyramid). As he hears his clanmate answer him, he takes one tome on mysticism and browses through it in a very caring way, probably trying to see if that early 19th c. tome contains the information he is looking for.

After having had a brief discussion with Corinna and having taken two other books -something about Cartomancy-, Griffin sat back in the sofa, to read his new book, and letting the second one on the side table. Corinna closed the Library for the day, put back the heretic Meyer ouvrage in the silken tissue, with the letter, and put it both objects on the table so the Regent picks it up. The letter and its envelope visible clearly indicate it's for the Regent, but she probably wished someone else would see that horror and be as shocked as she was. She then walked to her room and closed it.

Claudia walks in the Chantry with Elisabeth and Andrew, by putting her fingers to be read by the tactical pad which allowed her to enter with her keys without tripping on some medieval trap. Or maybe a high technological advanced and planned trap which could end in one horrific death ; entering without clearance is a definite don't, in all Chantries. Griffin gives a quick look, then a longer one as he notices that Claudia is not alone.
She smiles to both new Apprentices, and as she walks a little inside the Chantry, she gestures to illustrate her words.
(Claudia) So.. This is 'our' Chantry. I don't know how it was back where you were Embraced... Regent Kersten set up a few rules, written here on the board. Here there is the library. Right now it's closed.. Corinna must be in her room. If you want a book, ask her.. Ah, Sodalis Griffin ! This is.. Elisabeth Walker and this is Andrew Collins. I think my Sire found a new game..
Griffin sets his usual cold, unblinking soul-stealing eyes on one, then the other Apprentice, and he allows a slight nod as a salute. He sure is intimidating by his mere presence even if he's calm. He goes back to his reading and speaks in a low, calm, posed voice, but loud enough to be heard.
(Jean-Pierre) Lyle runs his Chantry as he wishes, as long as the Lord doesn't forbid it..
(Claudia) Do not get caught, right ? Claudia sounds a bit disappointed. She speaks a little lower, as to confide in both new Apprentices. Jean-Pierre Griffin might seem cold, distant and harsh, but he is a nice person, if you do not bother him too much. Well ! Over there, those are the Apprentice's rooms. On the right, the stairs lead to the Laboratory. You can use my fridge downstairs, if you need it for anything.. Regent Kersten allows us to study and experiment as we wish, regardless of circle of mastery, boons and favors. There is something I'm forgetting...
Claudia keeps on thinking a few seconds as she walks towards her room and takes off her shoes to put them right next to the door. She notices the luggage and gives a look full of questions towards Griffin who just turns a page of his book without showing he noticed the look. She then turns to the new Apprentices with a smile.
(Claudia) Usually, I don't stay in the Chantry, but I will for the next few nights.. Anyway my door is always open, don't hesitate. Ah- Rufus ! That's what I had forgotten ! Rufus is our Gargoyle, he was created by Lord Tarcisus, who was our Regent before Regent Kersten. Rufus doesn't like French, because with Tarcisus we all spoke Latin ; Tarcisus ruled the Clan with tradition in mind.. Now Rufus stays most of the time in the Big Bell Saint Eloi, our old Chantry. We'll try to present him to you both in the next few nights, so he doesn't consider you intruders. Other than that, I don't see him that often, he usually makes one with the stone and gives everything to his role of guardian.
She shows the empty rooms.
(Claudia) They are not very big, but they are comfortable ! In Saint Eloi we didn't have running water or electricity. Even if it doesn't seem like it, we are very well protected here. The Regent sleeps in the first room upstairs, but sending him a phone message or calling him is the best way to reach him. The board has all phones numbers you may need. I have something to try something in the laboratory for now, so feel free to visit and everything.

Andrew nods in comprehension to the instructions, but he doesn't seem to have any questions. He gives a quick look to Elisabeth.
(Andrew) I'll go directly to bed, even if it's still early, me, so..

Claudia makes a quick smile to Andrew, then one to Elisabeth, and she walks to disappear in the laboratory, without her shoes, the foot steps are barely audible.

Andrew settles himself in the empty room in front of which his luggage is, after all they look all about the same and he doesn't really care, he seems too tired to be able to care.

It takes Lyle a little less than half an hour to go back into the Chantry. While Griffin stands from his reading to acknowledge the Regent being back 'home', Lyle gives him a nod so he can sit again and read again. Lyle puts on the dining table his computer bag, and takes the letter and the book in the silken tissue. He makes a quick look to the rooms. He knocks to the closed ones, except Corinna, and once Andrew, who changed into more comfortable, and Elisabeth, whatever she did during that spare time, come out, he makes both Apprentices sit on the table. He then signs Griffin he should come too, which he does, after putting a bookmark in the book.
(Lyle) Claudia and Corinna already know this, so don't bother with either. So, it seems Tarcisus and Mikael Horsman may come back for a few nights, because of Claudia's problem (I'm going to explain this in detail after, so hold your questions you two). Corinna has already arranged rooms for their staying, so you shouldn't worry about that. I don't expect anything from anyone, but you should know the Primogen Council is not happy (oh surprise). I know my Sire, he doesn't give a fuck about that, he probably just wants to see his precious little grand-childe (poor man, the dust got to his brain), but Horsman... Horsman is another subject. Before you ask, Jean-Pierre, yes, permission granted. My short-term plan is to have Tarcisus go back to his land as soon as possible, with all protocol needed. As for Mikael, I know the guy too, he will probably stay more time, even if he loves working for Tarcisus, he just might have an attack by how I rule the Chantry. His staying is actually it's a good thing, it will illustrate a few points.
The Regent pauses a moment, as if thinking, he looks around.
(Lyle) Claudia had a little blood problem earlier tonight. For some reason, her blood didn't want to stay in her body. It's probably because of her sensitivity, so keep an eye open. Something might happen, both caused or foreseen by her skills. Don't try to ask her, she probably has no idea of what is going on. Andrew, I will probably send you to Toulouse tomorrow, their Regent owes me a favor, it's probably better considering your.. Condition. I'll give a call to Agnes. Elisabeth, like Jean-Pierre, I grant you permission to go around the city as you like starting tomorrow. As long as you respect the Domain tradition or don't go too much into the woods (the wolves usually do not warn). Consider this a choice between staying here and seeing Tremere politicking each other to Final Death or a heavy headache, or getting out until stuff are less tense. I am probably the oldest in the city and most others were not too much into useless etiquette and noble heritage of some sort, so do not worry about non respect of manners and whatnot. Try to stay away from the Malkavian though, especially Prevost, I think he has some plan in mind..

I apologize for being an ungrateful dick.

Rufus uses his well-honed Visceratika abilities to quietly and unnoticed enter into the groud level of the chantry, emerging from the wall just across from Tarcicus. He quietly waits to be acknowledged by the Tremere lord before speaking, very softly and respectfully in Latin.

"My lord, it has been some time since last I was graced with your presence. I do hope your stay in Bordeaux has been pleasant and remains to be so."

The massive Gargoyle is obviously very intimidated by the elder Tremere, and rarely maintains eye-contact for longer than a second or two before looking away in discomfort.

Tarcisus moves back into the sofa as he sees something coming out of the stone. He observes with attention, and reassured "it's just Rufus", he nods at him as a greeting and as giving him the right to speak. He responds in French, a bit detached, but quite passive. He's not scolding, nor as authoritarian as he was when he was a Regent.
(Tarcisus) Rufus. Your new Master requested this Chantry's language be French, as such you have to respect it. I am glad to see you are well. Lyle told me you were guarding my dear grandchilde last night, is she well ?

Lyle guides back William to the Chantry. He signs a vague hello to Tarcisus (who gives a curious look from his sofa, to the Regent first, then to William), Rufus, whose presence seemed to surprise Lyle for a moment, and Corinna (who came as she heard Rufus' voice, to greet him, but she finally turns to her Regent as he is a priority). Lyle lets his computer bag on the oval table, but leaves the Gargoyle and his former master discuss, after all, he's busy already.
(Corinna) Regent. Sodalis Wolvenheart. I brought your belongings to this room. She indicates one of the apprentices room. I hope you will like it. Things have been.. Odd, lately.

Lyle can't help a smirk, he knows Corinna refers to him. The Regent turns back to William.
(Lyle) You've got much better to see than the place you'll be dead in, right ? Lord Tarcisus here, my Sire, came to visit because his beloved grand childe had a strange side effect. He is our guest until he wishes to go back to Maastricht.
(Tarcisus) And my dearest denies talking to me about that, what a disappointment.

The Lord signs that they can leave him and Rufus alone, and he turns off the TV. He isn't interested in meeting Tremere neonates, especially since he probably has heard about William from his old Regent already, but rank and etiquette 'forced' Lyle to present him first. The Regent seems to have a certain friendly relationship towards his Sire, at least, it's less tense and while there's a power game between the two, both consider it a friendly game. The Regent continues.
(Lyle) Rufus is the Gargoyle of the clan. He has now domain over the old Chantry. Rufus, William here is a new apprentice of ours. This is Corinna Ansons, she's our librarian. Easy to tease, easy to bother, always to be reminded that Latin is a dead language.
(Corinna) Regent...
(Lyle) Yes, yes, what made our clan great, the traditions, the meaning of being Tremere, been there, done that, my Chantry, my rules.
(Corinna) Yes Regent.

Rufus restrains a slight smile at Tarcicus' reaction to his sudden appearance. He nods to the elder Tremere and speaks in French.

"Yes, I know of Regent Kersten's edict regarding the use of the French language. Old habits, I suppose. As for your grandchilde, she was well-cared-for under my watch today, but when I awoke this evening, she had left. I had hoped to find her here."

When Lyle enters, Rufus' attention is drawn to him. He seems about to approach the Regent, but stops when he notices William. Rufus turns his attention back to his conversation with Tarcicus until he is addressed. He nods in respect to William, which comes across more intimidating than the massive Gargoyle intends, but then that is his purpose. At the mention of Latin being a dead language, Rufus turns his attention to Corinne and tries very hard not to smile. He addresses her in Latin.

"It is a genuine pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Rufus seems oddly verbose in comparison to how most know of him or have had experience with the Gargoyle in the past. Were he a mortal, some would assume that he had "gotten laid" the night before, but this slight shift in demeanor is more subtle and more profound than such a lowly achievement.

Arriving inside the Chantry, William studied his new environment and what he saw seemed to please him as a smug grin plastered his face. Up ahead he heard voices, and suddenly he saw no other then Tarcisus himself conversing with a Gargoyle. The young Tremere halter abruptly and a surprised look flashed the briefest of moments before he composed himself, donned a blank face and joined Lyle as he had paused near his sire. He nodded respectful towards Tarcisus and greeted the gargoyle, cautious for he was not quite sure if the gargoyle was sneering or smiling at him.

As Corinna entered the conversation, William had to resist the urge to roll his eyes at the Latin, but none the less, he responded in kind. "Greetings Miss Corinna, and many thanks for your effort. And I'm quite sure I'll fit in just fine, no matter how odd things become." He smiled and gave a short glance at the gargoyle and the elder Tremere. Whom after brief explanation on why he was here, secluded from the group with the gargoyle.

On Further familiarisation with Corinna, he learned on her stance of Tremere progress, he understood a certain look he had seen in her eyes when he introduced himself earlier that night, he couldn't resist but add: "Traditions can be a vital part of our integrity of who we are, but one in my opinion must not be stuck within them. All that traditions do is prevent us from adapting to the modern world and utilise it's updated means to an end. I'm not saying dump everything overboard, but why cling to Latin, whom gives no benefit, other then waste time when trying to teach your neonates and maybe look fancy if one would somehow end up in some Toreador's Costumed party, altho you would most likely end up looking antique then wise, show off maybe. I have studied the history of our clan. And it has always been our ingenuity that kept us on the path of what we are today. We don't understand something, we study it, we cannot do something, we find a way to do it, we have no influence, we get people on the inside. What does clinging to the old ways achieve us? A stalemate. Take the American Tremere for example, they have combined just enough of old and new, without sacrificing too much of both. Then again my previous regent would have rather pulled his fangs, twice, before anything else but Latin was spoken within his halls. That's my opinion on it any way."

Corinna nods and makes a slight bow to Rufus when he addresses her. She's intimidated, but she knows who he is, even if she didn't really meet him. Lyle hears that Rufus is looking for Claudia, and that he talks to Corinna, he gives a killer look towards the Gargoyle.
(Lyle) No Latin spoken in my Chantry. As for Claudia, she's not here. This is probably the last place where she'd be.

The Lord can't help a chuckle, he stands and turns to the Gargoyle. He does act curious, paternalistic, even patronizing, but in a softer way than when he was Regent.
(Tarcisus) Ah you should know already that Claudia dislikes spending time in a Chantry. Tell me, what has put you into such a good mood?

Lyle openly ignores the discussion. He told that Claudia wasn't here and it seems enough information for him. The librarian listens to William's words on traditions, half shocked, half frowning. She does give that disapproving look, the one a classical teacher would give to a child, to the Regent, who also ignores it. She speaks a bit coldly.
(Corinna) I see. If you need any information or help concerning the library, do not hesitate.

She walks back to the library without even waiting for an answer. The Regent smiles openly, then shrugs. He addresses back the neonate with a more posed voice.
(Lyle) I'd guess my little essay filtered to your sire? American Tremere are idiots, I don't think they get it yet. At least the highest spheres. The neonates are always the most interesting, but they don't stay neonates forever (actually I'm working on that). As far as Latin is concerned, don't get me wrong, it is important to know, especially when you are interested in knowledge. Not indispensable, but useful. Here, follow me, I'll show you around.

He walks towards the rooms, and turns to go down to the -1 level, leaving the computer bag on the table. He signs towards a staked Scottish girl who's sitting in one of the sofa, under the old world map.
(Lyle) Don't mind Liz here, she's in training.

He goes and check on her, raising her head, watching her eyes, then lets her.
(Lyle) Traditions are nothing more than modern ways which have proven successful. Opposing both is a mistake. You'll soon understand that here, no one is a loyal Tremere, at least not by the definition we give to "loyal Tremere". This place is where you may conduct experiments, destroy evidence or practice some rituals. You're free to use the computers as you wish. This Chantry is probably the only place where you'll have enough space to do and say as you please. So I'll explain you the few ground rules that keep us safe both from our clan and from other kindred. I do not warn twice, and punishment is final.

The computers in the middle of the room seem to be of the newest, most powerful money could buy. At least it seems he's using well his money since those aren't laptops.

'Pff... I'll have to do something about that later... she is a colleague after all... I guess'

'What kind of training could possibly require staking... and how does anyone know she wants us to take it out?'

William studied his regent as the man studied his underling's eyes. William himself had never been staked before, and it was not an experience he planned on undergoing any time soon, not even 'For Science!'.

A chill seemed to run through William as if remembering something very unpleasant

William noticed the computers in the room, instantly recognising and eyes widening in a very faint hint of glee, as if very pleased with the computers. But his eyes dulled into a neutral mast, not betraying anything once Lyle started talking on his groundrules. The young Tremere nodded at Lyle as he slowly walked around the room, moving his hand over several pieces of equipment, assessing their state. "Yes Regent, Of course."

He opened a drawer and saw several ingredients. Freshly filled from the quality and quantity of the materials. Scanning the contents, he gave a soft content smile as he closed the drawer and crossed the room to a corner where the wooden floor ended, and rough grey stone began. For the ritual drawings no doubt. Seemingly calculating the size of the stone floor, the vampire crosses his arms and seemed to stroke his chin, only to grab his necklace whom seemed to exhibit a shiny red reflection, he turned to Lyle: "Excellent, well tended to and a lot brighter then my previous workstation, this will make work a lot easier." He briefly looked at the staked girl while considering his next step, realising he was still in the presence of his regent he procceded to walk back to Lyle's position and regarded him.

"I presume I have a task with the emergencies and all."

Rufus barely notices William's reaction to him, but he does notice the neonate look at Tarcicus. Somewhere deep inside of him, despie everything the elder Tremere was responsible for, the Gargoyle still felts his hackles rise at the thought of someone even insinuating an insult directed oward the old Regent. After a moment of consideration, the Gargoyle dismisses William and looks at Kersten with a hint of disappointment at being chastised, but nods in doggish agreement.

"Yes, my Regent."

At the mention of Claudia, Rufus straightens up a bit, the expression on his stony face difficult to read.

"I assumed she would not be here, but I had hoped someone present would know her location. If not, I know of other places to search for her."

The Gargoyles red eyes watch Lyle's and William's backs as they leave, then settle on Corinna for a moment, though it is difficult to decipher his intent, whether it be aggression or interest, but Rufus says nothing to her, only nods in acknowledgement. His gaze finally returns to Tarcicus, and he nods at the elder's words.

"I don't entirely know of what you speak regarding Claudia's special qualities, but if I may be so bold as to hazard a thought?"

His stony expression, though always difficult to read, is particularly enigmatic at this point, though whether it be from the subject at hand, or other distractions, is equally hard to tell.

The regent lets Liz alone, but goes to the drawers to find an object he puts on the table in front of her. He launches the metronome after having placed its small weight.
(Lyle) Count.

He then turns back to William, neither shocked nor disturbed seeing that he's browsing around and, well, adapting to his new workstation.
(Lyle) The old chantry just was not suited for electricity. I think your sire must be desperate enough, really. This chantry tends to be quite brutal on its neonates, he signs nonchalantly to Liz and everyone knows it. Ah, the main cause of death of the Tremere in this city is.. Well, me. Even taking into account the Anarch uprising of the Revolutions, and all wars combined.

He finds it perfectly normal to define himself as a murderer. He explains the general rules of hi chantry with detachment.
(Lyle) Here, behind our walls, there are no titles. I don't mind being called by my first name, I won't execute you for telling me I'm wrong, or discussing new ideas of any sort, if you have arguments. I don't mind questions. Of course the Chantry follows Vienna's decorum and orders, but the meeting every Tuesday to bond the Tremere in communion, that's not happening anymore here, it's an hassle to everybody. I don't ask apprentices to show me the progresses nor do I give orders for "the clan's greatness". Keeping everyone alive is already a task, and I have my own researches and activities.

He pauses a moment, to gather and assemble his thoughts, as he has lots to say.
(Lyle) Ah, feeding. The staff of the Hotel has been conditioned to be proper willing vessels without being a risk to the masquerade. They have been trained to refuse if they have been bitten. Until last week we were only four, two of whom did not live here full time. To each his own, but better have a herd available when needed. My sire and Mikael should be leaving this week-end, so we'll be able to get back to work soon.

He sounded quite detached, but he goes on, jumping on the subject of "other Tremere"
(Lyle) As for the others... Corinna Ansons, who tested your blood, is our librarian. She's a traditionalist, but she obeys even if she disagrees. Her comprehension of the clan may be a little idealistic, so she's not the kind to conspire against her sodalis. She refuses to let go the decorum but whatever makes her happy. I do plan on converting her. Dominique, god damn it.. Dominique Lejeune is a pain. Technically speaking he's under Toulouse's authority since the 1920's but he has friends here so he stops by every now and then, without informing the clan. Frankly I could care less, I won't insist nor babysit him. At least he respects the Justitium ; he mostly works for himself. Jean-Pierre Griffin is a serious sober distant harpy. He usually responds to the definition of a bad Tremere ; he doesn't work for the clan, he doesn't hesitate to work against its members. Usually it's well deserved. Behave and you will not even notice his presence. Liz Walker here is a fury, I don't know what that old bastard had in mind when he embraced her, but I owed him a favor so I accepted to house her until the Americas become safer. She wouldn't learn in the traditionalist way, so ours might work ; we'll see in five nights. And Claudia Vonigner is a gifted thaumaturge and sensible girl, but completely irrational and certainly too sensible. If you manipulate her, be sure she has no other way around or it'll haunt you back. She's much smarter than she looks. Damn she's good.. Either way she hates me, yet I'm can't say if it's because of ideology or pure gut feeling. You know Tarcisus already at least by reputation and his right arm, Mikael Horsman. And Rufus is the clan's Gargoyle. Rufus has begun to understand that planes were not invented by "mortals who stole the secrets of flying from the Tremere and their most devoted servants", but undoubtedly, he's indispensable to the clan.

He draws out his phone and gives a look to it, curious. The Tremere sighs at what he saw, puts back the phone in his pocket.
(Lyle) I don't really have a choice. The old Chantry was bombed yesterday, as well as many of Jacob's streets. The Lasombra we caught (who is still in the old chantry's cellars) and interrogated was desperate, about an item, an occult artifact which was said to be on the Brujah's territory. Elisabeth Vranken was obsessed with it and tried to find it for decades before eventually being killed by Jacob for disobeying the domain tradition, that stupid woman, somewhere in the 1830's or 1840's. I'll make an artifact with Mikael to give to the Prince, telling him we found it long ago, to keep him and the others busy while we sort out the mess.

He can't help a smirk, half amused.
(Lyle) The catch is that Theodore certainly knows I lied, and he's not quite open to have any Tremere in his territory. With the notable exception of Claudia. I know she's having a.. "something" with him for the last few months. Get her to cooperate with you about this. On this or on other subjects, do you have any questions ? Don't be afraid. There are no stupid nor taboo questions, and if it's something I do not wish to answer, I will tell you so.


Tarcisus listens with attention to his old creation, and nods. He doesn't seem to know where his grandchilde may be, but it doesn't really concern him. Curious about what the Gargoyle has to suggest, he squints his eyes as to observe him more closely.
(Tarcisus) I'm sure you witnessed her raw talents at the time of her trainings, but do speak.


Corinna steps out of the library to leave the chantry, with a polite and impressed nod to Rufus and to Tarcisus as she crosses their line of sight. She steps back in a few moments after, nods again, and goes downstairs to meet with the Regent. She waits a moment while he's discussing with William, but he signs he understood someone was waiting for him.

William placed the vial back on the cabinet as Lyle explained the rules and information about the chantry. He paid very close attention when the regent explained about the other Tremere and briefly glanced at Liz as he explained the 'learning methods'.

Auspex 4

William noticed Lyle's annoyance as he took his phone without it actually giving a vibration or a beep. William raised an eyebrow as Lyle continues, albeit at a more bored tone. At the mention of the artefact, he crossed his arms. "1830.. that's a lot of remodelling, rebuilding, 2 world wars and what not, the artefact, if it is real, could have been moved, damaged or even destroyed..."

William frowned at the mention of Theodore's stance upon Tremere, and looked sideways, considering something at the mention of Claudia, and Lyle's further directions. He noticed Corinna in the doorway as the older Tremere motioned towards her.

"Occult Artefacts are my speciality. I'll prepare and set out immediately. I'll need a few items from my bags. I'll need a contact number to keep you updated and I'll probably take a long jacket to blend in..." He said the last in a softer tone, more to himself, thinking aloud more than telling Lyle. "Yes... I of course presume our guests upstairs 'shouldn't necessarily need' to know where your prodigy is for now? I'll try to leave discreet."

'Well, Isabel did warn me he was kind of extreme... Works for me.'

William has a small leather pouch where he keeps several tools for handling artefacts. Brushes, small scalpels and a multi tool. Usually he has a blood stone in there but he used his last one recently pre-entrance chronicle. It also has a few ink markers and some chalk for possible rituals.

Rufus watches the others leave with a look of guardianship over them all. Anyone who gives even the slightest bit of attention to the Gargoyle knows that regardless of his opinion of them on a personal level, he is their protector and servant. A true Slave. His stony face and red eyes, whilst utterly intimidating to almost anyone else, should serve as a source of comfort and peace of mind for any member of the Bordeaux chantry. It seems as though Rufus may be pondering this very thought as his mind has wandered until Tarcicus speaks, snapping the Gargoyle's attention back to the elder. He stops for a long moment, seeming to weigh his thoughts before he speaks. When he does speak, his voice is soft and gravelly, difficult to make out lest one is nearby or gifted with augmented hearing.

"I think she's very special. There's something about her that contains a greater sense of power and urgency than most of the other Tremere I've met. I don't know what it is, but I assume it is something from her life before her Embrace."

The Gargoyle seems instantly ashamed of his words, hesitates for a second, then speaks again.

"I am told this is not so, but I can't help but wonder if SHE is the mortal who somehow wrenched the secret of flight from the clan..."

The Regent seems to remember something when William tells him about a contact number. He browses a moment in a few drawers, certainly looking for something. Once he found it, he turns it on, verifies it, then he handles it to William. It looks like an Ipod Touch. It's open on an app, "find my Iphone", which indicates a GPS location with the initials "C.V." on them. The map is quite clear and it seems the distance is not too long and can be walked (800 meters or so).
(Lyle) In the notes are most phone numbers of use, as well as my email. There's already an email account installed you may use, in the meantime. There is also a note with passwords for several wifi hot-spots in the city, since this one doesn't have 3G. I don't know what Rufus wants with Claudia, and to be honest I don't really care. He asked if she was here, but didn't ask me if I knew where she is. She probably won't take you by the word if you tell her I sent you, so either you go with Rufus so he confirms you are Tremere, or show her this. Or both. I'm certain he'll find her sooner or later anyway.

He lets out a sigh, puts his fingers on the back of his neck, pulling out a chain he undoes to take it off. He closes the clasp and hands it to William. It's a silver chain with a matching small sober cross.
(Lyle) I'll want it back. The city has not even changed that much. Certainly it won't be waiting for you with a neon sign, but the streets are the same, and many buildings of the domain were just cleaned up. I'll ask Griffin for Vranken's notes and keep you informed. You're free to approach the problem as you wish and take anything you need upstairs ; ID, travel cards, clothing... Welcome to Bordeaux !

Half sarcastic, Lyle waves goodbye and joins Corinna as she hides a certain impatience. Both walk up again. Corinna waits for Lyle to go outside and goes back to the Library.

Tarcisus listens with interest the opinion the Gargoyle has made on his unique grandchilde, with a smile full of pride. He can't help a chuckle when the Gargoyle discuss the 'mortals stealing Tremere secrets', but shakes slightly his head to deny. He speaks calmly, allowing a certain privacy in their discussion. Both Corinna and Lyle, when they pass by, don't pay attention and let them discuss. After all, both know they have lots to catch up, and angering a Tremere Lord is never a good idea. Lyle walks out without further formalities.
(Tarcisus) No, Claudia has nothing to do with mortal inventions and their evolution. Things change so much, so fast... He makes a sign to the TV, to illustrate. I have trouble understanding how on earth, yet I cannot deny how interesting and useful it can be. About Claudia, I always suspected she was never really human to begin with ; that's why I wanted to embrace her myself, and that's probably why the Malkavian was interested in getting her. It would have been a waste to let that Malkavian embrace her, and Lyle understood it, which was why he went so far to give her to me. Even if he never told me exactly how it was draining her, even if she grew apart from the clan, I'm still satisfied with the results. Yes, she is gifted, she made the most spectacular progresses I could witness and has a good comprehension of magic under Mikael's tutoring. Her blood as a kindred had nothing in particular, she responded well to the rituals, and could never tell us what she was before Lyle brought her in. I was never able to find out what she was, but what's important now is what she is.

The Lord shrugs slightly.
(Tarcisus) Too bad her sensibility only responds to the whims of her emotions, lest she'd be powerful. It is better to have her unused in our House, than a potential danger as a Malkavian experiment. Eventually, she'll prove herself useful to the clan. In the meantime..

William the device and inspects the map. "Humn, useful."

As Lyle explains the functions, he briefly scrolled around getting a feel of the area and the best path he should take. "Well... in that case, I'm probably better of taking him along... Brujah with a short temper and who possibly talk with their firsts aren't exactly my forte... and I'm curious on the aircraft stories."

As he gets handed the necklace, he briefly wondered it's purpose but refrained to comment. "Aight... " He began putting it in his pocket, but reconsidered and placed it around his neck and behind his clothing for safekeeping, lest Lyle would use his hide for his next experiment should he loose it.

Auspex 4

William inclined his head as Lyle left with Corinna and glanced at Liz. "Well ehh... enjoy school I guess..." He scratched his hat as he went through the same door Lyle took on his way out. When he came back into the main room, he saw Rufus and Tarcisus were still heavily conversing. He shrugged and passed through to his room. He briefly examined the area, and enjoyed the modernness of everything, a major change to the castle appearance the old chantry had. He grabbed his bags, undid the lock and spread it over his bed. "Let us see... " He grabbed a small leather pouch and took a rather long dark brown woollen coat which reached all the way to his feet, donned it and placed the pouch in his hidden pocket. He grabbed a cane which was about hip high, dark brown wood and the metal head of a wolf giving shape to the handle and a small leathered book with an unusual 8 number combination lock keeping it shut tight, which he placed into his pocket as well. He grabs his wallet, takes an ID from a crimson envelop with the seal of 'Du Lac' printed on it and puts everything into his pants pocket. He buttons his coat, puts the Ipod Touch in his coat pocket and exits the room, locking the door with a soft thud and looks at Rufus, waiting till his conversation is over with his Lord and tries to get his attention with a soft wave.

'And it will probably also let him know exactly where I am, until he can get something more permanent on me somehow.'

The Lord notices William waits for their conversation to be over. He signs towards the L shaped sofa he's sitting on, as a way of allowing (commanding?) him to sit, even if it's not right next to him. His behavior is still quite paternalistic, but much more open than one would think when hearing about his reputation. Maybe it's a facade, or maybe it's a difference on how he acts in his original Chantry. Obviously, he thinks he's the one William wants to talk to.
(Tarcisus) I heard about the game your sire had to play to send you here, before I left. Do not worry about my presence, it's only for private matters and I won't take actions against it even if I frown upon it. As Lyle said, I don't intend to stay nor to meddle in this city's affairs. How do you find your new home ?

He's honestly curious about William's opinion on the chantry. It's also quite noticeable that he didn't ask Rufus about it.

William briefly hesitates at the lord's summon, but calming walks over to the sofa, straitens out his coat as he sits down, taking off his hat out of expected respect for the man in front of him. Upon Tarcisus's inquiry, William smiled and nodded thankfully. "Thank you Lord Tarcisus, I believe my sire did it because the situation was becoming... unmanageable. The Reagent of the Brussels chantry is... how should I put it, an extreme eccentric example of a traditionalist. He completely shuns any form of improvement past the dark ages, negatively affecting the process the chantry could make. He also refuses to speak any other language other then Latin, making communication with most of his chantry impossible unless you're dealing with veteran apprentices."

Williams swept over his current surroundings. "It is as if I went from a medieval era and time travelled into the future. The creaky wooden chairs are replaced by comfortable recliners, the dark candlelight is replaced by bright and clear lamps, I have access to the latest developments and means to an end and the laboratory is many times more workable then my old station ever was. And yes, Lyle Kersten is most likely one of the most brutal teachers I have ever ever come across, he is also brutally honest and down to earth, from what I have experienced so far anyway. Of course there is the fact that there is a Tremere staked downstairs for apparently another 5 nights so she can learn to concentrate apparently, and that I seem to have arrived in a literal political shitstorm with a hint of Sabbat (pardon my language). But then again, we ARE Tremere... Our clan doesn't exactly have a tranquil history. All In all, I figuratively traded a Vlad III Dracula for Napoleon Bonaparte. For a semi-Traditionalist like me, it's a decent trade. Of course I don't prefer either, I grew up among technology and the occult interests me greatly, but at least here, one has options." William tapped his glasses, adjusting them as they had moved down his nose from his short storytelling.

Tarcisus listens in quite an active way, squinting the eyes sometimes to observe better. Eventually he takes out his own glasses, an old pair that makes his eyes look slightly bigger. He can't help an amused smile as the neonate tells about his experience before, and how he compares it to what may happen in his new chantry.
(Tarcisus) I don't mind language, after all, under Lyle's rules, you are allowed to speak as you wish. I admit Lucius- I mean, Regent Hansen has a certain view of the clan and its ways. I am not surprised about your sentiments. Latin is one of the funding elements of our clan, but taking it too far destroys its intended purpose. As for Lyle, I'm not sure about him being a proper Magister (he never wanted to, and hardly worked with other Tremere), but you will certainly learn a lot under his orders. Concerning your sodalis, being trapped in her own body for a few nights straight is a good training ; patience, meditation, control... All valuable to be able to practice Thaumaturgy safely. It's a technique this chantry uses quite often, but it's certainly not the only one.

He smirks meaningfully and nods slightly more to himself. He speaks a warning, but seems quite detached about it, as if it was normal. The fact that he feels the need to communicate the information is noticeable enough to wonder.
(Tarcisus) Be sure Lyle won't hesitate to eliminate you if you put yourself in his way. Think about every little thing that happens here, and you just might understand him ; your sire and your old Chantry as a whole seem to think you are a promising and capable element.

His attitude turns much more protective and paternalistic.
(Tarcisus) Maybe you'll prove yourself useful, enough so you may see up close his works and talents.

He then gives a look to the Gargoyle.
(Tarcisus) Rufus? What do you want to do with Claudia again ?

The hulking Gargoyle listens to Tarcicus, and is about to speak when William interrupts. Rufus seems to space out for a few minutes, seemingly an oblivious statue as the two Tremere discuss between each other. His reverie is cut short when Tarcicus addresses him again.

"Oh, yes. Claudia. I should go find her, yes? I believe that was what Regent-" here his voice seems strained, but it is a subtle tone, difficult to pick up on, "Kersten asked me to do. Keep an eye on her, yes."

He straightens up and bows low to Tarcicus.

"I hope to see you again soon, Lord Tarcicus."

Once he believes he has been given leave to part, he does so, immediately turning toward the stone wall and softly melting into it.

William bursts from his seat once he realised he was leaving, knocking his cane to the floor and motioning the stone giant to stop. "Oi, wait! We got a job to do!" William shouts to the wall whom had a half fused gargoyle sticking out. He turned back to his Lord and gave a swift bow. "I'm sorry to cut this short, but time is of the essence I'm afraid.".

He bends over to pick up his cane and walks over to Rufus, correcting his glasses as they had moved during the sudden movements, "I know where Claudia is, Kersten has ordered us to fetch her and have her assist us to go and find an artefact in Brujah domain."