The Water Mirror

The man chuckles at the compliment, taking the object in his hand to show it, and as if nothing, follows and catches up to the kindred he spotted.
(Tarcisus) I do not know of you yet, kindred. Yet you're wearing something of my kind.. And that's interesting. Give me answers and I will then leave you to your errands.

He smiles, curious but also on his guards, interested by someone he has not met yet.
(Tarcisus) Who are you ?

int+occult>5:

A small muscle at Chris' eye twitches in annoyance when the stranger decides he is very interesting and must be feeling up for a conversation, and so comes to catch up to him. He calmly continues walking along the street, observing the Kindred now walking besides him from the corner of his eyes, neither to obvious about this, but making no true effort to hide it either. He lets out a small grumble, clearly not anywhere near the good mood of the other. “Just great. You the Tremere Regent?” Though it's formed in a question, Chris seems to be reasonably sure of this.
He is silent for a few seconds, probably considering what he's going to tell the Tremere. He shrugs then, sending a somewhat sly smirk in the other's direction. “Tell you what, if I get that cane, without any magical trappings thank you very much, I'll tell you what I can.”

perception+subterfuge>4:

The Tremere laughs and nods at they walk, amused by the questions.
(Tarcisus) Oh, really... chiler should show a little more respect, you know ? He shows a certain disappointment, but in truth he doesn't really care that much. Yes, Regent Tarcisus, that'd be me, my reputation is known enough it seems.. Well surely things have changed on the docks since last time!.. My cane? You may not have it, it's mine ; depriving an old man of his walking cane, really?

It's true he uses it to walk, but it's unsure if he would actually need it, medically speaking. He's playful by defining himself as an old man.
(Tarcisus) You're still wearing something of my kind, now tell me who you are, or should I force the information out of you?

The threat is serious, but he is stating it as if it was a normal action to do. The confidence in his own abilities isn't overfed by ego, which means he's quite down to earth. But something is odd in his behavior, something just feels wrong about the Tremere

Chris smirks slightly, amused by something. “Yes. Childer really should. I suppose the lack of respect in the fledglings comes simply from modern society. They all want to be so independent and free.” From the sound of it, Chris certainly doesn't consider himself amongst the younger generations.

perception+etiquette >4:

“Hate to burst your bubble, but I have never heard of you before just now. It's fairly common knowledge that the Regents are the oldest and most powerful warlocks in town.” Chris gives a disappointed look when Tarcisus denies his deal over the cane. “I'm not buying that you actually need it. You can just order yourself a new one.” He huffs, feigning indignation. “Oh sure, throw my deal in my face, and still demand answers. Well I'm not telling you anything.” He certainly stays true to his word there, for instead of giving the Tremere his information vocally, he rummages through his jacket for a second to pull out the letter Lyle had given him, which he then hands to Tarcisus. He glares at the letter as he hands it off, muttering to himself. “To think I gotta use it already. Now I'm probably going to have to thank that damned cheater too.”

Tarcisus chuckles, agreeing about Childer. He doesn't take the fact that his conversational partner didn't feel included, and he doesn't comment on it.
(Tarcisus) Logics are even better than reputation, very well! But it's not always true. It's been my case because my Chantry is by all means very traditional in nature. As for my cane, it is a precious artifact, giving it to you would not respect your "without magic tricks" inquiry.. Should I ever give it away, it would stay in my direct bloodline anyway. Hm ?

Seeing the other is handing him paper, the old Regent takes from his vest pocket his glasses and puts them on before accepting the paper, he reads through with a certain curiosity.
(Tarcisus) Oh, I see! Taking initiatives, are you not, Lyle.

Between delighted and enthusiastic, the Tremere reads it once more. He then folds it and gives it back, observing Chris with even more attention.
(Tarcisus) I'll be delighted to hear his reasons, in the meantime you'll need that should you cross the path of others. My childe gave you something else, didn't he ? Show it to me.

It's not really a question, he knows, but he wants the other to admit to it.

Taking the slip of paper back, Chris returns it to his pocket. “Well obviously I keep it for just that purpose. I have enough assholes out to kill me already.” He sounds lighthearted when he says this, definitely not worried about it.
At Tarcisus' continued denial of giving him the cane, Chris scoffs and shows open disappointment.

Perception+subterfuge>5:

“I'm willing to compromise when it's about things that take my fancy. I can take it off your hands as is, providing it doesn't blow up in my face.” He gives a half smirk. “No better tool than a cane to beat others over the head without dirtying your own hands.”
Chris' eyes narrow slightly and he tilts his head when the Tremere basically demands he gets to see the object given to him by Lyle. He doesn't immediately answer, observing the apparent Regent closely. He eventually makes a gesture halfway between a shrug and nod. “Lyle did indeed give me something. Though I don't quite feel like showing it much.”

perception>2:

The Lord doesn't seem surprised or shocked to hear people are after him to kill him. It's not about Chris, really, but what the old Tremere considers as normal, used to both direct and indirect attacks. He takes the cane in his hand, just under the handle, and waves it a little in front of him, as if he would hit someone's head with it. It's clear he's used to using it both as a cane for corporal punishments and as weapon, but as well as to hit someone with the handle, like one would do to kids in a class. It also confirms Chris words on hitting people's heads with it. He's quite playful and amused, like if nothing, about enforcing.
(Tarcisus) It's one of the reasons why I have it, my own can be very stubborn and must be taught discipline and respect. I have lots of heads to hit myself with it, so I can't give it up. Plus, who knows what would happen if a non-Tremere touches it.

It's a vain threat. He shrugs about it, but gives up on what he wants be shown.
(Tarcisus) Very well, I will have to ask that childe of mine to know what he gave to you, then punish him for your insolence. His seriousness is questionable. He switches subjects fast enough. Now I know your name, Christopher Orlov, and that Lyle's vouching for you, I will leave you for your night. I cannot give you my cane, but I can answer a few questions if you wish to ask me any.

Chris watches the display of Tarcisus hitting the air before him with the cane with some amusement, a smile playing along the corners of his lips. “I can see you're certainly adept at smacking people on the head with it. But then, with someone like Lyle wandering around your Chantry it's almost expected really.” He doesn't even seem to bother to hide his amusement at the mental image of Lyle getting smacked around. “Oh? You're going to punish him for my insolence? If we're going to be running into one another more often, I might actually start feeling bad for him.” He purses his lips slightly in thought, fingers running over his small mustache. He then gives an unconcerned shrug. “Eh, what do I care. Long as he lives.”

perception+empathy>4:

“Hm. Do I have any questions that have a chance of actually being answered.” He ponders this for a few seconds, then seems to perk up. “Well, you could tell me where you had that cane made. If I can have a decent enough replica of your cane, you might not notice it when I eventually swap them.” The vampire smirks slightly, appearing to be merely jesting. “Oh I'm sorry, did I say that out loud?”

The old Lord smiles at the idea of himself chasing his childe with his cane to smack him. He nods.
(Tarcisus) I'm sorry to disappoint you but Lyle is a very serious, obedient and dedicated student. I never had to correct him. But I might as well start tonight, for involving himself and vouching for an insolent like you. I wonder how he'll take it. Oh, killing him ? No, no, I won't kill him and you may see him soon enough again. I'll have to think about it anyway.

He listens, curious and interested, before laughing and nodding.
(Tarcisus) I made it myself, that plan of yours would have been flawless. He makes a hand wave. Farewell then if you do not have any other questions. I wish you a fine night.

Unless stopped, Tarcisus parts paths with Chris and makes his own way back towards the Chantry.

Chris raises an eyebrow slightly at hearing that Lyle is pretty much being referred at as a model student. “Really?” The doubt is clear in his voice. “I find that...hard to believe.” He ponders this possible new aspect of the Tremere, then shrugs. “I'll believe that when I see it.”
He makes no effort to hide his disappointment when Tarcisus reveals that the handcrafted the cane himself, though it could well be feigned. He lets out a theatrical sigh of defeat. “Very well, I suppose I'll just have to try and live with the knowledge that I'll never get my hands on that piece of work. Good evening.” Chris makes no move to stop the Tremere from leaving He watches the vampire walk away from him for a moment, then turns his attention to his phone to quickly check the time and position. Tugging the device back in his pocket, he sends a quick look around to see if he can't spy a potential meal in less than three seconds. Since the player assumes that this is a rather unlikely thing to happen, Chris just begins to wander away to a new destination without filling up the river with dead bodies.

Chris gives a little chuckle. “Course they're useful. Otherwise I don't see why you'd ever want to be with them!”
He glances at Claudia with a little surprise and curiosity at the disgust in her voice when she speaks of feeding. He seems to try and wrap his head around anyone not enjoying the whole feeding process, but finds himself unable to comprehend, and just shrugs. He does still seem curious about the matter though.

The attention Claudia gives the game center draws his own as well. He observes the place for bit, until the Tremere suddenly speeds up again, pretty much forcing him to speed up as well if he wishes to keep up. “So, help me understand. What's your problem with feeding? You speak about it like a console fanboy would about a pc.”

The Tremere gives the other Kindred a look of disapproval as he mentions there is no reason to be with kine other than their usefulness. She doesn't call out on it yet, probably not wanting to discuss it.

perception+empathy>4:

She walks calmly, but her behavior has changed. She's far more attentive and focused, watching around for anything she might pick up. She does answer when being talked to without any problem.
(Claudia) It's dangerous.. I wish we didn't have to, but there's no choice. She mutters mostly to herself. Aw Papa, where are going to find trouble now? She then gives a look to Chris. Do you happen to remember which way he was walking to?

subterfuge 2:

Chris barely looks around as he follows Claudia, seeming content with just leisurely following the Tremere around and pestering her. He scoffs when she claims that feeding is apparently a dangerous thing. Her wish that it shouldn't be a necessary thing goes way over his head. He makes a dismissive gesture with his hand. “It's only dangerous if you make it to be so, for your own amusement. If a Kine catches you feeding, just promote that one to lunch as well.”

He shrugs at the question regarding the direction Tarcisus could've scampered off to. “No idea.” The vampire doesn't even bother looking around to orient himself before answering. “Can't you call him or something? Everybody and their mother's grumpy cat have a cellphone these days.”

The Tremere stops walking when Chris mentions "promoting to lunch" and gives him the what the hell look. She even stays silent a moment, not sure if she understood. She then sighs and denies, whispering softly and giving up, seeming now much more distant, and drops the subject.
(Claudia) I see why you are friends with Mr. Kersten.

She stops by the docks, closer to the ramp, and looks first north, then south, before taking her phone out of her pocket. She gives it a dreadful look before putting it back (she didn't press any button so it wasn't even to check the hour).
(Claudia) If he has a phone, he probably left it in the chantry. He's not just anyone, I'm afraid these things bother him too much.

She chooses to go north, trying a guess.
(Claudia) He has no reasons to go see the Snakes tonight, so I guess he just went for a walk. Argh.

She growls a little and frowns, pulling even her hair a little, then she sighs and gives a little look at Chris.
(Claudia) Sorry. My grandsire is.. a little off, sometimes.

Chris raises his eyebrows and tilts his head a little when Claudia suddenly stops and stares at him. Unfazed, he looks back at her until she looks away. Her words draw a slight chuckle out of him. “What's this? Somebody doesn't feel like admitting blood is necessary?” He steps up to stand beside her, leaning in towards her, his voice taunting. “You scared you might like it?”
He lets out another soft chuckle as he straightens up again.

“You want to say he easily forgets his phone? Does he have amnesia or something?” Chris' voice is laced with disbelief. He could well be overreacting on that just because it was fun, but on the other hand.... “Nobody should forget a phone in this day and age! Even if they're strange and just going for a walk.”

Claudia just frowns at the taunt, she denies in her eyes, but doesn't defend herself, maybe admitting in silence as she looks away from the other Kindred. She just looks at the water a moment, before shaking her head.
(Claudia) He's too old for such considerations, and he, well, he's not very aware of his surroundings. And it's not like if he thought he needed to answer to anyone. Damn it's like a teenager going over the wall.

It's clear the situation frustrates her and worries her, not because she fears for her grandsire but because things might get embarrassing. She keeps walking slowly, and due to the hour, there are much less people on the docks, most of them finishing up a beer, taking a piss on the river, or just plain trying to sober up on the mirror. She walks a little slower. Once at the level of it, she stops walking to observe the water on the Water Mirror, thoughtful.
(Claudia) I sometimes forget mine too. If he's on the docks, he'll pass through here to go back to the Chantry anyway.

Chris doesn't even bother hiding the smug grin at the lack of denial from Claudia. It's clear as day he considers this as a victory for himself. He hums softly to himself, entirely to pleased with this perhaps questionable achievement. He hardly seems to listen to what his Tremere companion has to say, staying quiet until she comes to a stop near the water. “You know, I wonder why you bother going so far for your 'papa'. Let him find his own way back to safety, and just let him get a tan if he doesn't.”

She turns around to face the river, having an eye on to the Stone bridge further south then on the different dock constructions further north, but then gets a little bothered by the other one's words, giving him a glare full of surprise and shock. She keeps silent a moment, before letting out a sigh to calm down, and going back to observe the docks.
(Claudia) It's not that.. ugh. I'm not worried 'about' him, or at least not for his well-being. I'm worried for mine. He's the one to be kept an eye on, not for his own safety, but rather for ours, because he could end up causing a war if he's left unsupervised.

The idea displeases her but it seems that she considers it can't be helped. She lightens a little as she notices something of interest, and smiles ; good eyes will notice a man walking from far away, coming from the northern docks (and not the Stone Bridge). A few minutes later one can confirm that indeed she has seen her grandsire, and while she waves over to get his attention, Chris can surely guess that the young Tremere has amazing senses to spot someone from so far away.

The possibility of a war being caused at the hand of Tarcisus doesn't really seem to disturb Chris. He shrugs idly, his eyes casually wandering over the water of the river. “Far as I remember, a war is already going on. One more or less.” Another shrug.

Noticing Claudia's distraction on something distant, Chris follows her gaze, squinting slightly to see just what had gotten her attention. He eventually notices the moving silhouette that, as it draws closer, proves itself to be Tarcisus. The vampire raises an eyebrow in surprise, his gaze turning to the Tremere at his side. “Did you just....” He shakes his head a little, muttering softly. “Tremere tricks.”

The Tremere doesn't comment further on the war, shaking her head slightly, as if she considered he wasn't aware of what she meant, of how awful the wars she's refering to. She smiles to her grandsire as he draws closer. The Lord seems as surprised, as far as one can notice on his pace hasting and his general body language, and Claudia gives Chris quite an intrigued look.
(Claudia) Tricks ? Oh there were no tricks.. I just know my grandsire well enough.

She says so pointing to her eyes in a smooth movement. When Tarcisus gets closer, he salutes both kindred, starting with Claudia, with a slight nod.
(Tarcisus) Hello my child. He pauses a moment, observing Chris, frowning a little as he seems to try and recall. Christopher, hm ?

Tarcisus then puts his hand on his grandchilde's cheek then moves her head to the side a little, only to see her side a short instant. She complies without a word. He states an obvious fact before letting her go and being uninterested.
(Tarcisus) You look awful. Were you waiting for me ?

Claudia nods, confirming the obvious truth, and tries to justify herself as she indicates the west.
(Claudia) I'm sorry... I couldn't prepare myself properly today... We should head back to the Chantry, Lord. It's late.

He seems to confirm, and puts a hand on her shoulder, ready to walk by her side, and giving a couple words of farewell to the other Kindred. She gives a look at Chris, and nods as to salute, as he has said arrangements have been made. Neither seem to know he's also being housed at the Hotel.
(Tarcisus) It's true. Let us go then. Until then, Christopher.
(Claudia) Good morning...

Chris lets out a little huff when Claudia tries to claim that she didn't use any tricks. It's clear he is not believing of her words and thinks some trick was involved at least.
He gives a greeting nod to the approaching Tarcisus, followed by a confirming one when the Tremere remembers his name correctly. “Tarcisus.” He observes the interaction between the two Tremere with some curiosity, remaining silently at the side without interrupting them. The vampire grins when both warlocks start to bid him farewell for the day, merely beginning to follow them both back to the Hotel. “It seems like we're going in the same direction.” He says calmly, his voice holding just a tad bit of amusement.

Saturday Night

Duncan pulls off of the avenue just south of the Water Mirror, where the Quai de la Douane turns into the Quai du Maréchal Lyautey.  After signaling and checking to see if the bike path is empty, Duncan hops the curb and parks the motorcycle near the grass at that end of the park.  Even this late, a few people can be seen seated at the benches, or strolling along the river.

As he turns of the engine and takes off the helmet, Duncan explains his plans to Miriel.

I'm going to see if I can find a suitable 'donor' or two.  You can wait here if you want; but I know you didn't have much chance to feed the past couple of evenings, either.  I'll only take about thirty or forty-five minutes; long enough to grab a quick snack, and then we can go to the Arcade.  Claudia did suggest we feed before going there, after all.  

Perception+Empathy>4:

The Brujah waits for a moment to give Miriel a chance to respond, before he heads off toward the riverfront.

Storyteller:

(OOC - For those who didn't see it in the 'Duncan's Haven' thread (non-spoiler), here is Duncan's motorcycle: a Yamaha WR135X, for Europe (w/ street tires).  It's made more of an appearance than a few players, so it feels almost like an NPC.  LOL)

Miriel can't hide a cheeky grin when Duncan mentions he's just taking Claudia's suggestion, no big deal, Yeah, alright. Catch up with you in a few. She makes no comment, but her expression states she's wiser than that. All the same, she goes off searching.

It takes her a few minutes to find someone who doesn't look like they're tweaking so much as a little too drunk. She would have preferred feeding cleanly, but she's not picky if she just walks away with a little buzz. She approaches a young man, gets into his personal space and begins acting flirtatiously toward him. He's stone drunk, so it takes little or no convincing to feed after a little kissing.

storyteller:

Drunk as she may be, she's sure to take care to lick the bite shut and wander off before her donor comes to. She shuffles at first, her body recalling what inebriation is like, before walking back to where Duncan has parked.

When he gets back, she seems sober, Heyyyyyy! Or at least until speaking. Yep, she's tipsy. She'll probably deny it, too. She's wearing a contagiously inane grin.