Grand Theatre - Déambulatoire Monday March 28th 2011

Duncan takes a seat when Jerome gives the invitation... he seems to be in no hurry to leave.

Yes, there was a survivor, although I'm not sure there would have been if M. Kersten had faced him.  He didn't seem eager to take prisoners.

The prisoner is Frederic Vonzel, who is a Lasombra.  I'm told he was known before, although he claimed to be Ventrue.  Did you know him?

Duncan glances at Felix when the childe is mentioned.
M. Griffin suggested that a few of the neonates, including William and myself, should take Felix under our wing and show him how to deal with meeting new people.  I have no problem with that.  It's always good for new people to hang around with others of their kind until they grow accustomed to meeting other Kindred.

OOC:

With an interested look, Neb gives a glance at William. Uninterested in the issue of what the Ventrue asked the Nosferatu, he asks William.
(Neb-uau) Declared "missing" ? I thought the Tremere were good at covering up an Embrace so it wouldn't pose a threat to the Masquerade.
(Eric) My thoughts exactly. I'll see what I can find out, these kind of events are bad for all of us.

Artevelt seems willing and open enough, but there's no doubt he has a personal interest in doing so. The other Ventrue gives him a curious glance but it seems he sees what the former is up to. Armand shakes slightly his head seeing Nyx' reaction. He shows his hand in a way to refuse the invitation by William.
(Armand) We'll leave you alone.

When Gosuin and Theodore entered back, Armand took a moment to turn enough so he doesn't show his back to them, but Eric was a bit more nonchalant, probably because he is not a native to the place.
Armand then makes a slight wave of the hand to the others before both leave. It's clear neither Ventrue wanted to cause tensions. Neb takes the opportunity to give back another look at William, hoping an answer from his earlier question.
(Neb-uau) I might help with my relations, about your.. situation. Care to tell more ?




Jerome can't help a smirk when Duncan indicates Kersten didn't want prisoners.
(Jerome) Primogen Kersten isn't known for his subtlety or his mercy. Are you sure he did not destroy him after you left?

Obviously he doesn't believe the Tremere would just keep their word, or play fair. Vonzel's name seems to be known by the Toreador. He even sounds slightly worried.
(Jerome) I remember him. He presented himself as a Ventrue... 66? 67 maybe? Oh, the Ventrue Board must be cringing, they have been fooled. But I do not know him more than polite greetings. He takes an instant to think about it. During Mr Delacour's vernissage, if my memory is correct.

The "Ventrue" didn't leave a lasting impression on the Mandataire, it seems. He looks thoughtful an instant and spares a glance at Griffin. Felix left a few instants earlier. He signs Duncan to lean a little closer as not to have spies.

Duncan, active spies:

He goes on at normal voice. He approves the idea, seemingly touched and nostalgic.
(Jerome) Forming a coterie, even if it's just for a few weeks, is good for everyone alike. Him to learn, you to grow, our society to stay safe. I'm sure he would learn a lot from being surrounded by different kind of individuals, he is quick to learn. I admit my own weaknesses as a sire and would be grateful if you did.

He is indeed fairly humble when speaking about himself but he stretches the importance of coteries in Camarilla cities. His gratitude is sincere and he expresses it without thinking it is what Duncan is after.

Corinna raises both her eyebrows.
"You mean, they left together? And you sent the new Toreador after them to go looking? I wonder what you hope that will accomplish."
She seems slightly worried at the thought of Claudia leaving with Catherina and takes another look around, a frown appearing on her forehead.
"If it weren't for tonight's trial, I'd go follow them myself. Not that Claudia isn't capable of looking out for herself, but she's at a slight ... disadvantage, I'd say."
For a moment, the Librarian looks at the half-empty glass of blood in Griffin's hand, then she looks away again.

Griffin makes a slight nod and a "hm" when Corinna asks if they left together and if he sent Felix after them.
(Jean-Pierre) Hopefully he will find out more than we could. It's a proper start, for neonates, to understand our world.

He even smiles a little at Corinna when she mentions disadvantage.
(Jean-Pierre) Against a ghoul pimp ? Claudia is aware enough to notice danger and be safe. She wouldn't have survived the War if she was that.. disadvantaged.

No doubt he means WWII ; the Tremere had notoriously many enemies and Claudia looks like an easy prey to take down.

William's smile dropped into an unaltered look of annoyance and held up a finger to Neb to hold one one second.
"Hold on one moment."He said, loud enough for Eric to hear, but low enough not to draw (too) much attention, "You are misunderstanding. Legally for all intends and purposes, human me is dead. Nobody is looking for me, nobody is searching and investigating things about me, officially. And while I appreciate the concern, from both of you," Implying Neb and Eric, "for normally, this is a very troubling matter indeed. However there is no need to panic and the situation does not require more attention than I'm already spending resources on. As far as I'm aware, the Belgian chantry made all the necessary arrangements to preserve the masquerade with clean efficiency. The problem stems not from kine's government, but from my next of kin. My birth parents are and have always been the intuitive sort and rather bold. They keep clinging to the idea that I'm still alive out there. The posters will most likely not be the official ones. I had no idea they'd spread their useless quest to France but I guess they're just broadening their search area. But like I said, they got nothing recent to identify me and I look nothing like the old me."

The look of annoyance was replaced with a bored expression, the corners of his mouth slightly down curved.
"This isn't my first rodeo, and I would ask you to refrain from making inquiries, for all it will do it leave traces in the system, even unintentionally, which I simply do not wish to have out there. For I am not in the mood to take more 'definitive' actions unless events call for it. Both for my sister's sake and other personal reasons."

He tilted his head slightly to the right as he seemed to realise something.
"Of course, I merely divulged this information to prevent further problems from arising, that could have caused needless drama. But needless to say, my laundry stays my laundry."

The prisoner is still alive, although I'm not sure it's a kindness.  He's been interrogated, probably a couple of times.  He doesn't strike me as being willing to make a deal.  Odd, I think.

M. Griffin strikes me as an honorable man; one who takes the duties of his office seriously, and not merely to stir the pot for amusement's sake.  That is how I see it, anyway.

I don't claim to be an expert in Kindred affairs, but I have observed the situation in Paris for a few years.  I'll give M. Felix whatever advice I can.  I'm sure he can help me in a few matters as well; that's how it goes, after all.

It has certainly been lively the past few days.  Even your friend Mlle. Nolveaux had some excitement, I understand.  I'm glad she's alright.

Eric does stop when William says his "hold on". He listens with interest, seemingly taking in the additional information as well as William's wishes as far as his mortal family is concerned.
(Eric) It explains why what I remember was from informal fields. Maybe some TV "witness call". My apologies, as we age we tend to see the youngest as less capable than they actually are. I won't inquire about it as it's your wish, but if I recall anything, I'll let you know, in privacy and without traces.

He bows the head slightly, to emphasize the apology, and leaves if nothing else.

Neb waits for the Ventrue to be away, observing William. He then speaks with a soft and nice voice which is certainly natural to him. It's like he really wanted to help.. but with a counter part.
(Neb-uau) My offer of help stands, but it's nothing more than an offer. Give me a call if you accept it. He pauses an instant then gives a warm smile at William, Fred, Nyx and Miriel. Would you tell me a little more about yourselves and this city? If there's someway I can participate to strengthen the city's forces...



Jerome listens with attention, taking the information with interest and putting together the pieces as they come. A slight look of disgust is visible an instant when Duncan mentions the prisoner was interrogated. He knows what it means.
(Jerome) It is odd indeed. If for some circumstances, should I be "interrogated" by the Tremere clan, I'd be begging for my unlife.

He half jokes about it, but he wants to emphasize that it's indeed fairly odd for a prisoner not to try and make a deal.
(Jerome) More than "those who know and those who do not", a coterie is more about mutual services in an equal manner. Once everything has settled, I'm sure Felix will be a valuable member of Kindred society, he is the capable kind,

He seems fairly convinced and hopeful, but it doesn't seem to be a blind judgement. He shakes slightly his head when Nolveaux's issues are mentioned.
(Jerome) "Madame" Nolveaux. He corrects with a smile. Even if she kept her maiden name for Kindred society, she is attached to her married status. Laure is a strong one, but it seems she would have been worse off if Fred wasn't there. As far as I know, the modus operandi doesn't seem to be Sabbat. It's what worries me the most ; if it is not the Sabbat, it's someone else. I fail to see who would want to hurt her, apart from Mlle Vanderstree. I am not fool enough to think all Camarilla Kindred are nicey-nice to each other, but I doubt it's a good time for us to be harassing each other.

Fred looks at William and Nyx with a pleading look after Neb asks him to tell about himself; clearly uncomfortable with the idea.
Pardon my bold request, but may I by chance avoid telling my story? It is a source of distress for me that brings much inconvenience to my friends.

He again gazes at William and Nyx, though only briefly.
Ah, perhaps I can tell more about the city instead?
Fred keeps his beanie off, tightening his grip on it.

Auspex 2:

William nods as Eric leaves, his eyes following the Ventrue's retreating form. He repositions his gaze at Neb, a small polite smile on his face.
"Of course, and your offer is noted, however, and this is meant with no ill intent, but no service your bloodline offers comes for free, even if you would offer it, somewhere down the line, it will come from higher up your chain of command to bite me in the... ankle... However, I shall keep it in mind, and should I have need of it, I shall indeed consider your offer."

He leans back, nonchalant, the straightened pose he took when the 2 older vampires came by all but evaporated returned to a relaxed seated position, crossing one leg horizontally over his other, allowing him to put his cane on his lap.
"And there is not much to say, I am yet quite unfamiliar with the city, I was embraced in Belgium and moved here quite recently to study under Regent Kersten's particular... method. That's about everything to say I guess."

After Fred stated his request, the Tremere added: "Yes, of course, there is no obligation to tell about yourself if it makes you uncomfortable." Looking back at Neb while gesturing to Fred with a warning look, "And Fred is pretty much a walking GPS slash Tour Guide of Bordeaux, if you have any questions I'm quite sure he could answer them, alas I doubt there is a lot one can do these days to strengthen our presence. However, and pardon me if I'm wrong, but weren't the Setite an independent faction? Unless you guys officially joined the Camarilla recently."

Madame Nolveax, then.  I knew Fred was there, but I didn't know he'd helped keep her from harm.  Yes, it's a bad time to be at each others throats, when wolves are at the door.

I am a bit concerned that more teams from the Sabbat will try for the same thing that Vonzel and his people did.  It's... a bit comlicated.

Have you seen Neb-uau, the new Follower of Set?  He's Emilio's childe; the pretty redhead over there.  He's getting acquainted with everybody.  He gives your childe competition for 'pretty boy of the evening'.  Duncan smiles a bit; he is teasing Jerome a little.

Jerome nods in approval when Duncan corrects Laure's "title" of a married woman. He lets the subject of Camarilla rivalries die, and doens't comment on Fred and Laure's status ; It's clear it's only second hand information and he seems to think if Duncan wants, he'll inquire them instead of him.
(Jerome) I heard the Sheriff had first hand information on possible Sabbat nests. I guess we'll know soon enough.

A head movement and he indicates Gosuin's room.
(Jerome) I have not met him, but I have noticed him. I did hear the Harem comment my other clan mate has made. He smiles a like, meaning Miri, understanding the joke and taking it for what it is. It's a bit unnerving to see one of us that isn't French.

Of course, he probably means "southern looking", as there are many foreigners in town. Fellow Europeans don't count, they're white and christian just like him. Typical old French mentality. Oddly he doesn't seem to be plain contemptuous, but it seems it's more of a question of education (those darker-skinned people...). He then asks with an honest and candid curiosity.
(Jerome) You've met him, what can you tell me about him ?



Neb shrugged at Fred's request.
(Neb-uau) You can talk about something else, if there are certain things you'd like to keep private it's fine.

Neb nods at William's answer to his offer, obviously thinking that he'll come around in time of need.. but then the price will be higher. He doesn't press the issue.
(Neb-uau) All services have prices, we're just more honest about those prices than some others.

He raises an eyebrow.
(Neb-uau) I've yet to meet the Tremere Regent. "Particular method" ?

He gives a falsely chocked look when the Tremere doubts his independence.
(Neb-uau) Of course we're independent. But when installed in Camarilla cities, we observe Camarilla customs. It's in our best interest to have good relations with our neighbors, zithout jeopardizing our freedom. Locally, at least, we're.. more useful allies to you he means the Camarilla of the city, than the Giovannis.

He gives a glance at Fred.
(Neb-uau) What do you know about the train station, if you will ?

Fred:

"Regent Kersten is quite ahead with the times. He values modern standards and ideas and he doesn't cling to every medieval idea some other elders do these days." William responded as a matter of fact. "Not that said line of thinking doesn't encounter protest amongst other Kindred. But he simply values the right tools for the job, not the way things were usually done for countless centuries past. There is one thing you'll swiftly learn as a kindred, something that no ghoul or mortal could immediately grasp. And that is vampire's are not simply unchanging in their immortal coil. Almost everything remains the same, thus it could sometimes be considered a weakness that the more ancient generations, not quite accustomed or born to handle with modern pace of technological revolutions, for medieval settings were a unglobalised environment, where new ideas and concept were a rare sight. It's why High Kindred society always seem to lag slightly behind when it comes to modern tools. A gun is a faster and deadlier crossbow, a car is a carrier with a metal horse. But computers? Cellphones? Those are unfammilier ideas and concepts to grasp. If the average kine has such problems even adapting to use one, why would a thousand year old vampire fare any better? Be glad you're part of this day and age, you were born and still live with the idea to adapt to change without problem."

William took out his cellphone, and pointed to it.
"In a mere 2 years, we've become a hyper connected civilisation that can communicate via social networks, process information at an unparalleled level without being encumbered by giant machines and libraries thanks to handheld devices and reached the level to do things at the touch of a button where it could have taken days to do in the classical way. No doubt, hiding ourselves has become ever more dangerous, and memories have now stretched beyond the lifespan of a human life, and it will no doubt get even harder as time progresses. Like they say, this is the age of the nerds. So is it also the age of the current Neonates. It is in our best interest to adapt to glorious evolution, or end up bleeding oceans as the house of cards crumble. I mean think about it. We and the crème de la crème of Bordeaux's Kindred, are sitting, in a theatre."

Fred loosens his grip on his beanie.
Ah, the train station was renovated in the 90's which has since turned it to a nicer place, if only marginally so.
There is a market for drugs located there, but not nearly as much as it used to be, a good thing in my opinion.

It is a place for business men, tourists and high profile escorts more so than anything I'd say, though the homeless and the occasional younger do wander in from time to time, perhaps for the drugs.
Ah! The Giovanni and the Snakes used to contend with the drug trade, but recently it would seem your people have gained what is close to a monopoly on the trade; likely an ally of yours with enough influence to bring the Giovanni business problems.

Can I assist further?
Fred looks far more relaxed now than he did a moment ago.

Felix returns and looks to Celine with a smile.

"Thank you for the help, please let me know if there's ever any way that I could help you in return."

He looks over the room and slowly makes his way towards Jean-Pierre, standing and waiting to be acknowledged in silence.

Perception + Empathy > 4:

Celine gives a warm smile at the thanks.
(Celine) It's my job and pride.


Jean-Pierre Griffin was staring at Gosuin's room, whose doors just closed with Corinna inside. He looks annoyed, and stays silent a moment, before indicating to Felix he saw him and he can sit.
(Jean-Pierre) You're not screaming murder and you're calm. Should I conclude you found them and that they are both live and sound ?

He doesn't sound as annoyed as he looks, but he had taken a few notes in his notepad earlier. He even seems reassured.



Neb looks very interested at William's story and explanation on technology and computers.
(Neb) So this Regent isn't your regular traditional Tremere. I was a ghoul for a while before being embraced, but I've made a point to keep in touch with the new technologies. It's true it's neonate's time... isn't it? What about you mrs Nyx?

The Setite gives a smile at Fred when he explains.
(Neb) I may ask you more details later on. Maybe it's time to eradicate that.. presence from this city.

Fred looks a tad worried.
"Ah, you speak of the Giovanni presence, yes?"

He sat as indicated and nodded.

"They are both fine."

He then leaned closer and whispered.

Auspex 1, spies:

William shrugged.
"You could say that."

Once Nyx failed to respond to Neb's questions, William intersected with a small smile.
"Good luck getting a Nosferatu to talk about their history. Super secret stuff and such."