Le Grand Théâtre

Duncan watches the vitae being drawn from his body with ill-concealed discomfort. But he is also impressed by the display. He glances at the Tremere primogen, to gauge his reaction concerning his clanmate's prowess. When the procedure is done, Duncan relaxes visibly. He waits until Claudia's look of concentration is past, then he speaks.

Very impressive. Will this performance be repeated with each new Kindred who presents themselves?

Lyle Kersten observes quietly the procedure, and although he is probably used to spectacular acts, he does seem to admire a certain talent in the performance. A noticable fact is that he is not watching her, but only the glass and the blood flow.
Claudia's concentration disapears a few seconds after she tasted the vitae.
Most Tremere use a knife to extract the Vitae... Other tests ? Well it will depend on each Primogen..

Claudia's face changes to a slightly disgusted face and she turns to Theodore Jacob.
Ah so bitter ! Yes it tastes like yours, Theodore.. Erk, Brujah vitae for sure.

Theodore seems satisfied with the result and with having made Claudia uncomfortable, he nods, very amused.
She recovers quickly her happy self, and notices the glass still in her hand, and offers it back to Duncan.
(Claudia) Oh, here.
(Theodore) Perfect, thanks, my little sorceress, you can go now. Mr. Oliver it is ? You want some info about Bordeaux, the dos and don'ts ?

Auspex 2, Perception 3 or Empathy 3:

Duncan accepts the glass from Claudia, with a nod of thanks. He looks at the remaining vitae for a moment, as if trying to decide-- for now, he merely carries it with him.

(To Claudia): Good evening, Mme. Vonïgner.

(To Theodore): Yes, I am most eager to learn about Bordeaux. I would not want to accidentally intrude on anyone's domain. Also, I hear there was some recent unpleasantness with the Sabbat, which you touched on a moment ago. I feel it would be healthy to know all I can about this.

After Claudia says her farewell and takes her leave, Duncan and Theodore begin to talk.

Auspex:

Oh, please çall me Claudia !

Claudia leaves on to join Jerôme, with a warm, released smile.

Theodore lifts an eyebrow to the discrete question, and awnsers as low as Duncan's voice.

Auspex:

Well, alright, Bordeaux in a nutshell. First don't would be probably getting on the Prince and the Primogen's bad side, but that's no news, right ? Second don't, would be to avoid pissing me off, but I'm easy to work with. The Elyseum Guardian Theodore points to Laure as he talks is a good gal, she's not the one hiding under the tables. My domain goes from the Victoire plaza up to the Universities, you're welcome there at anytime, as long as you don't go and frenzy in public. If needed, El Bodegon's upstairs is kind of our local Brujah gathering place.. Ha, El Bodegon is a bar cafe just in front of the Victoire plaza, quite easy to find, always full of college students.
Our Clan is.. Well it's all over the place, most of us are not allergic to setting reunions and having clanish discussions, mostly none of us steps on anyone else's toes and that's just fine. That's Calamity Jane, I mean Suzanne, that's Franz, Mike isn't here tonight, you'll probably find him in any bar that's in at the moment.
The Regent Grand Hotel, as its name states, is owned by the Regent, which is Lyle. Again not a guy to piss off. If you ever get a problem to be solved immediately to uphold the Masquerade, M'sieur Pierre's the Nosferatu to call, I'll give you his number too. We're close to Spain which explains the Sabbat raid we got a few months ago. We won but the price was high. This is why we bit our tongues and didn't kicked out the Tremere since their behavior during the 40's. Bloody assholes mages are efficient.
Oh that's Catherina Giovanni. She is of Giovanni Clan, very mafia and dirty business. The train station prostitution sector is kind of hers. Oh we have a Gangrel Primogen because there is no Ventrue Primogen, as Gosuin is the only non-Toreador Prince of France... This is why we are on our own against the Sabbat, Villon didn't like us much.

Duncan listens intently to Theodore as the Primogen talks about Bordeaux. During the conversation Duncan nonchalantly drains the cup handed to him by Claudia, and picks up a full cup from Celine, using that to rinse out the other cup, and drinking it down as well.

I see. It is evident from the test earlier that the Sabbat are still viewed as a constant threat. I'll be on my guard. If I see anything, I'll pass the word around. Obviously, we all have to band together.
Duncan smiles.
It reminds me of an old political cartoon by the American, Benjamin Franklin. The picture was of a snake, divided into pieces, and each piece was an American colony. The caption read, 'Join or Die'. This seems very relevant to our situation.

I thank you for the information, M. Jacob. We have a common acquaintance in Paris; I can tell you what he has been up to recently, if you are interested. But I don't want to take up all of your time tonight. If you have other matters to attend to, I can speak with you later this evening, or even some other evening, if you prefer.

Miri arches a brow, rising from the table. She was reminded of something. Her glass was empty, so she went to exchange it.

Auspex 4:

Glass in hand, she stands in the center of the room, scanning for the small woman with the red-ribbon trick. She sees her by a tall, thoughtful looking man. She doesn't stand there long, and approaches the both of them.

Hello. I'm Miri. I usually spend my nights whittling away the hours playing music, or finding conversation. Her eyes smile warmly, then the smile fades as she contemplates her glass with downcast eyes. But, as I find myself a stranger in this city, the number of those I dare approach for casual chat is discouragingly small, and so the evening is crawling by...

The smile returns as she looks at the both of them hopefully. I wonder if I may have the pleasure of making your acquaintances?

Theodore nods at the comparaison made by Duncan.

Althought it sometimes mean to agree with fachist bastards to make the city survive, since we won't get any help from Villon's crew. Most other cities have the Anarchs planting bombs into the Ventrue's houses, the Toreador having their political struggles going on, or the Tremere.. well the Tremere being Tremere is enough to cause tensions. Here, we can't allow that. so

Theodore seems curious or enthousiastic about the news of the common acquaintance mentionned by Duncan.
Yeah the old man's plans ! But we'll have plenty of time for that a bit later. I have to discuss things with Gosuin. Don't hesitate and poke in a conversation with Calamity or Franz, you got my version of Bordeaux, but doesn't hurt to listen to what everyone else has to say. But I'm right and they're wrong !
Later, then !

He laughs, gives Duncan a quite strong but friendly slap on the back, and leaves to Gosuin's room. Then, like remembering something, he turns back.

Oh and don't worry about Etiquette with me, call me however you feel the more at ease. Walter used to call me Teddy, Gosuin calls me Jacob plain and simple, and Doctor doesn't call me at all !



Claudia gives a polite smile back at Miri as she approaches her and Jérôme. She turns to be able to face Miri, and takes slowly Jérôme's arm to hold on to it.
Hi, I'm Claudia Vonïgner.. of House Tremere.
This is Jérôme Lehin, the Mandataire of the Toreador Clan.

Auspex 2, Perception 3, Empathy 2:

Laure takes time to go back to Lauren, she offers her her hand, with a smile and a bit of excitement.
It is about our time, Lauren. Are you ready ?

Duncan nods at Theodore's parting words.

Theodore it is, then. Farewell.

Theodore nods, turns away, and walks over to Gosuin's audience room.

Duncan looks around the room, taking note of who is talking to whom. Yet before he starts to mingle, he walks over to Celine, who is picking up an empty glass from a side table. He hands her one of the two glasses in his hands, and then wipes the inside of the other glass with his handkerchief, before handing her that one as well. Duncan thanks Celine, and gives her a smile. She smiles back, and moves away.

Glancing around the Deambulatoire once more, Duncan seems to make up his mind. After folding his handkerchief and tucking it into a pocket, he walks over to where Lyle is standing next to 'Miss Anson', although neither are talking at present. Duncan nods a greeting to both Kindred.

Primogen, Madame. I hope you are both well this evening. I met M. Kersten earlier, with the Prince, but I haven't met this charming young lady before. My name is Duncan Oliver, of Clan Brujah. And what is your name?

Corinna notices Lyle coming in her direction from afar and patiently takes another sip of blood before he stops close to her. She then visibly bows her head in acknowledgement of his position.
"Regent", she adds in a quiet voice, then listens to what he says to her. At his first words, she shows a smile, for a split second almost a smirk, then nods. "I would hope so, too", she adds in agreement, then throws another look towards Claudia, a thoughtful expression on her face.
At the mention of her name, she looks to Lyle again, and pauses for a moment after hearing his offer, the wheels silently turning in her head while she thinks about what to say.
"Of course I am curious." A slowly spoken confession, then her voice is lowered, as to discourage any possible listeners.

Auspex, if not paying attention to Duncan's refusal of the test:

The Tremere pauses again, as if in hesitation, then continues in her hushed tone.

Auspex, same as above:

Her gaze is now fully focused on the Regent's face, as if she expects him to answer. After a while, though, she shifts it back to Claudia to watch and listen to her. She joins in Lyle's smile, although hers is not predatory but quite dry, the sort of smile that gives away she's amused by the situation in a very ironical way.

Auspex or Perception 3, if not watching the ritual:

Auspex 2, if not watching the ritual:

Auspex 4, if not watching the ritual:

Seeing that the test itself is finished to everyone's satisfaction, Corinna turns back to the Regent besides her and shows a small smile, this time not dry or ironical at all.
"Well, I guess this is a very clear display of Miss Vonigner's Thaumaturgical prowess, isn't it?"
She concentrates on the scene itself again and nods slightly to Lyle's words, then takes a look at all other Kindred in the room, slowly taking in their reactions to the show of Thaumaturgy, then she smiles again, this time wider.
"It is surely insightful if one only takes a look around right now, Regent", she remarks in a quiet tone, then falls silent again, watching the others for a while, occasionally looking back at Lyle to see if he wants to pick up the conversation. Not much time passes until she says something, though, as she notices a woman walking up to Claudia: "My apology, Regent, but do you recognize this woman? I can't seem to remember her name." She did notice her reaction towards the display of blood magic, which was what caught her interest in the first place, and so she connects the dots as to why the foreign Kindred would probably want to talk to Claudia.

For a while, there's some more silence on her part, until she notices the man coming to the Regent and her, and throws a short but meaningful glance to Lyle, then looks back to the approaching Brujah, patiently waiting for him to introduce himself.
After he has finished speaking, she returns his nod, although only slightly, and gives him a polite smile before answering his question.
"I'm Corinna Ansons, of House and Clan Tremere. It is a pleasure to make your aquaintance, Monsieur Oliver. I hope you find Bordeaux to be a pleasing home so far?"
Realizing that she is still holding her glass, she takes another sip from it, throws a side glance to the Regent, then engages in the conversation more enthusiastically. Or, at least, she tries to.
"I also hope you didn't find it to be too much of an inconvenience that you were asked to provide your lineage. The city has been through a very unpleasant Sabbat raid recently, and the mindset of the siege is still present in some of our minds. Surely you understand our caution."
She falls silent and tries her best to give him an encouraging smile.

Auspex or Perception 3:

Auspex 2:

As of Corinna's curiosity Lyle gets as low as she is in tone voice, during Theodore and Duncan's discussion about accepting the "test". He also lowers slightly himself to be able to hear Corinna, and be able to anwser her.

Auspex, if not paying attention to Duncan's refusal of the test and the discussion to convince him to accept:

For the time of the prowess, Lyle is quiet and relaxed, maybe used to it.

Very clear indeed, and very interesting. Claudia does know to make any act as delicate as she is. And she's right, I would have used a knife. Last time someone refused.. And last time I had to test someone's vitae, I think I had to cut off his hand.

He says so, so calmly it gets a bit scary.
Franz doesn't hide his anger anymore, but he doesn't move as the Sherif is watching him.

Kindred who lived Tarcisus' reign during WWII:

Lyle turns slightly his head to see the woman Corinna is talking about, and he denies.

Never seen her before... When she will present herself to the Prince, prehaps another test ought to be asked.

It's evident that Lyle aknowledges he's annoying Franz, this is why he continued.
When Duncan approaches, Lyle offers a polite smile, giving back to Corinna her glances, maybe to support her.
His voice loses some of his seriousness when he adresses Duncan.

I am having a good time, thank you, and you were wise to accept Claudia's test.

Duncan smiles at Corinna's greeting, and listens to the Regent's pointed comment without visible reaction.

The pleasure is mine. As for Bordeaux... I believe it will be quite interesting. It's not quite the rebellious backwater that they would have one believe in Paris. Concerning the test... my Primogen requested it, so of course I complied.

As he speaks, Duncan notes the byplay between Corinna and the Regent, and her apparent distraction; but he makes no mention of it. Listening to her reply, he shakes his head slightly.

No, I can understand the need for security, based on recent events. Of course, being the donor during such a spectacular display isn't exactly comfortable. But I can deal with that. I've been through worse.

He glances over at Gosuin's audience room for effect, and then back at the Tremere. I understand that I'm not the only Kindred new to Bordeaux. Several others appear to be waiting for their Presentation, as well. What do you think of all the new arrivals, Mme. Ansons? Regent?

Corinna smiles thankfully after listening to Lyle, and nods. "Of course. Thank you, Regent." For a while, she seems to think about the words they exchanged, obviously quite interested in them, occasionally sipping at her glass. As Lyle comments on Claudia's 'performance', she only looks at her clan sister again, face completely blank.

"Yes, I have to agree. Though it would have been a pity if such force had been needed for such a simple, normally painless test." She doesn't sound very sorry, but that's probably only because she wasn't in Claudia's stead.

After that, the Tremere looks down to her glass, which is finally empty, then up to Lyle again, nodding. "Perhaps. But maybe she's one of the new Fledglings whom there was already talk about a few nights before. We shall see, I guess."



As she turns away from the Regent, seemingly after finishing the topics still left open in their conversation, Corinna concentrates on Duncan once more, the polite, friendly smile evident on her face.

"Rebellious? Is that what they say about us in Paris?" She chuckles to herself, then a curious touch sets to her eyes. "I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you, Monsieur Oliver, but I'm not one for rebellions myself. In assumption of your words, I take it you hail from our capital city?"

Auspex 2, Empathy 2:

"It's a one-time event, I can assure you, but one that has to be done in public. It's pleasant to hear you don't mind much, though."

With that, she closes the topic, to avoid any traps that might come if Duncan were to ask further questions about it, and follows his glance to the Prince's office.

"Yes, there were certainly rumours about recent Embracees. I do not know if they are correct, but we shall see soon, I guess."

She ponders for a moment, her gaze sweeping across the whole room once more as she intakes the scene, then she answers his actual question.

"I cannot form any opinion as of yet, Monsieur Duncan, but I assure you I'm at least as curious about them as you are. It has been a while since new Kindred have been presented, and I would suspect everyone in this room is quite interested in the new faces."

After another side glance to the Regent next to her, she shrugs slightly.

"I would return the question, but this would be hardly fair yet. Maybe we can postpone this topic until the Presentations are over? We will both know more then."

Lyle approves Corinna's thanks with a simple "hm", as he is listening. He nods about how a simple test could need so much side work.

After the question about the new arrivals, Lyle lets Corinna answer, confidant and slightly distant. He does give his own response to the topic.

I have not met any of these new faces yet. As my fellow apprentice here, I have nothing to say yet, we'll see. After all, this is the reason of my presence, and Doctor's, the Nosferatu Primogen, during the presentations as counselors to our Prince.

On any other time, Kindred may only find me in the Chantry, reading Latin medieval books, listening to Gregorian chants, and making highly complicated, long term plans, to take over the world.

Auspex 2, empathy 3, perception 3:

Well, Prince Villon is none too happy at Bordeaux right now, but I think the only ones who use the word 'rebellious' are those trying to curry favor with Villon. I think that most of the Kindred there are secretly happy that Bordeaux is standing up for itself. The world is getting too big for one Prince to represent and protect all of France.

Duncan smiles slightly at Corinna's question. Yes, I have been in Paris for some time. However, I believe I will be happier in Bordeaux. I'm not one for rebellions, either... at least, not rebellion for its own sake, like some of the anarchs. I'f I'm going to fight, I would rather fight for something, such as defending one's city from attack.

As for the test, it's past. Perhaps the other new Kindred will feel more relaxed, after seeing it done to me. I won't trouble myself about it.

He waves a hand briefly, as if to dismiss the matter of the test from his mind once and for all. He follows Corinna's gaze around the room, and to the side room where Prince Gosuin sits.

Yes, I can see your point- it was hardly a fair question, asking you both about newcomers of which you have no knowledge. I was just making conversation, I suppose. Even so, I'm sure it is good news that Bordeaux will have a few more defenders, after the recent losses. At any rate, we should know more shortly.

In response to the Regent's comment about taking over the world: I had heard the Tremere were too sensible to want to rule the world. I thought that was why they left that particular headache to the Ventrue.

Auspex 2, Empathy 3, Perception 3:

The Mantadaire's quiet, Auspex-enhanced patrol received another interruption as Claudia performed one of her spells. The Toreador stays still throughout the performance, only to continue his trek once it was completed with no change in his bland expression.

Auspex 2, Perception 3 or Empathy 3:

Again, a destination forced itself on the wandering Toreador as a familiar face found its way to him. He slowly releases a small smile as Claudia catches up to him. I see someone has not neglected her studies.

Before the conversation can last much longer, a third person arrives.

Sio wrote:

Miri arches a brow, rising from the table. She was reminded of something. Her glass was empty, so she went to exchange it.

Glass in hand, she stands in the center of the room, scanning for the small woman with the red-ribbon trick. She sees her by a tall, thoughtful looking man. She doesn't stand there long, and approaches the both of them.

Hello. I'm Miri. I usually spend my nights whittling away the hours playing music, or finding conversation. Her eyes smile warmly, then the smile fades as she contemplates her glass with downcast eyes. But, as I find myself a stranger in this city, the number of those I dare approach for casual chat is discouragingly small, and so the evening is crawling by...

The smile returns as she looks at the both of them hopefully. I wonder if I may have the pleasure of making your acquaintances?

Jerome's smile doesn't waver with the unexpected interruption. Though he is slightly surprised when Claudia makes the introduction for him and wraps her arm around his, but he doesn't mind either. Indeed, he begins, his tone pleasant and friendly. It is as she says. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miri. Would you be willing to indulge an old man's curiosity and reveal your Clan's name?

Lyle seems not to care much about Villon and Paris's view on Bordeaux, but he does listen. He takes it lightly, with a bit of cynical voice.

Villon has already sent a couple of times his regards towards our dissident city's Prince and us, the Primogen. Of course Villon's way of directing the country is out of date, very old fashionned, and his intervionism begins to annoy some of Province's Kindred who have no interests in Paris whatsoever. The more Loyalists of the Toreader have had their power drowning in Bordeaux since the first World War, so the.. hm.. the "independance" began from there. That and the Second World War finished them off. Toreador loyalists who exiled themselves from Bordeaux never came back, since their seat has been taken.

I would guess that most Kindred in Paris do not care about what happens past the hood and around the corner, as well as Bordeaux's remaining Artists could not care less about who is in power as long as nobody steps on their feet. Paris can burn, it will hardly touch us, four hundred miles... Six hundred and fifty kilometers away.

However, we Tremere do not play exactly by the same rules, so my view on the matter is the one of an old outsider with some observational skills.

Yes, taking over the world is a common plan for most Kindred, Tremere included I assure you, we tried during last War. But power lies somewhere else than social status, or being the one others bow to. And as you said, we leave its dangers to the Ventrue.


When Celine approaches to offer Corinna, Duncan and Lyle some blood and to take the empty glasses, Lyle refuses the offer for himself, without even looking at the Ghoul.

Perception 3:

Auspex 2, Perception 3:

Sixth sense:

Miri listens to Claudia introduce herself and Jerome with brightened eyes. As soon as Jerome speaks his request, she smiles widely, slightly embarrassed.

Of course! You must excuse me, I'm still new to this. I was taught the barest basics by my sire before he was... gone.

She shrugs slightly and re-frames her introduction, pressing her right hand over her chest, bowing slightly.

I am Miriel De Boucher, of Clan Toreador. Her smile returns. Though I'm sure most could have guessed; I had become so entranced by Claudia's fine, fine work just earlier. She pays the compliment sincerely.

Auspex 2, Perception 3:

Auspex 4:

It was a very fine performance, Jerome agreed, patting Claudia's arm in a reassuring manner. It takes an unusual amount of skill to perform one's abilities with a sense of style. As he regards Miri again, a look of concern crosses his features. While I am heartened to hear of another addition to my clan, I am troubled by the news of your sire's absence. Is all well with him?

Duncan nods at Lyle's comments over the Paris-Bordeaux situation, and listens to his words intently; although he does not ignore Corinna, throwing a glance her way once in a while to see if she has anything to add to her Primogen's words.

Yes, I'm sure Bordeaux will do much better on her own. The atmosphere here seems much more... alive than Paris. One adapts to new situations, or one becomes mired in the past.

His face wears a slight smile as Duncan adds: In regards to world domination, I will leave global plots to my elders. My interests and ambitions have a much smaller scale... at least for the foreseeable future.

As Celine offers blood to himself and the two Tremere, Duncan politely refuses the offer. He notes the Regent's refusal, but says nothing.

Auspex 2, Perception 3:

Auspex 4:

Miri's eyes lower as the answer to Jerome's question materializes. She answers simply, He may be dead, for all I know.

Auspex 2, Perception 3, Empathy 3:

Auspex 4:

She shakes her head and smiles again, her eyes passing over her surroundings before returning to Jerome.
But I am still here, and in France. It is a good place for me, I think. It warms me.

I see, well then may you enjoy your stay in our fine city, Jerome declares encouragingly, quickly moving away from the emotion-charged topic.

Though it may not be included in my official duties as Mandataire, please, he continues, placing a hand on his chest before opening his palm toward her in a gesture of sincere offering, the gesture taking on an unintentional noble-esque feel when combined with the man's meticulous, black suit and quiet manner, Feel free to ask of me if you are in need, and I will see what I can do for a fellow cousin. Are you enjoying the festivities so far?

Miri touches a hand to her chest to show Jerome's gesture was warmly received. I'm at ease already.

She grins and brushes her jet black hair behind her ear. I am very grateful for your kindness, Monsieur. And yes, I am enjoying tonight. Bordeaux has not disappointed me. It's a wonderful thing to gather together, even as strangers. Miri smiles as she sips from her glass before her dark eyes return to drinking in the rest of the spacious room and its inhabitants.

It isn't long before she has become curious again: May I ask who those three are?

She motions across the way, to a looming sort of man and a woman who are being spoken to by the man whose blood was tasted earlier in the evening. They seem to be taking turns staring holes into this direction. She leans over and lowers her voice...

Jerome, Claudia, Auspex 1:

She shifts a little as she rises again, speaking normally and chuckling dismissively. But then again, I'm an easily excitable person.

Claudia offers Jerome a smile and her grab loses in strenght (despair ?) as a response to his reassuring gesture. She keeps silent as the two Toreador talk about clan matters. When Miri talks about her Sire, Claudia looks slightly away, and it's noticable she looks towards Lyle Kersten.
She only allows herself to talk when Miki asks about the identity of the Kindred. Her voice shakes slightly.

The man with curly hair is my Regent and Primogen, Lyle Kersten.
She might be avoiding something else to say about him. She recovers a bit a normal voice with a small smile.
The woman with a bun is Corinna Ansons, the Chantry's librarian. As I, they are of the Tremere House. The third person, whose blood I tested, is Duncan Oliver, of the Brujah Clan.

Slowly, Claudia's eyes begin to tear up with blood, but she doesn't seem to notice, yet.

Mr. Kersten is probably overseeing I stay where I belong.




Lyle, who didn't seem to care much, although he had noticed Claudia was distracted, now turns his heads to stare right at her. He doesn't look very concerned, but he does seem to be ready to act.

Perception 2, Empathy 2 or Alertness 2:

Auspex 2, Perception 3:

Occult 1:

Occult 3:

Before the Toreador can hazard a guess of the other group's attention toward them, he notices Claudia's reaction. Contrary to Lyle's apparent lack of concern, Jerome blinks in alarm and surprise when he sees the blood begin pooling in Claudia's eyes. He bends down and whispers something in her ear.

Miri, Claudia, Auspex 1: