The Regent Grand Hotel

An eye muscle twitches a little at Lyle's taunting words. Chris directs an annoyed glare at the Tremere, then lets out a sigh and rolls his eyes, muttering under his breath. “You're a fucking bastard you know that.” He shakes his head with a small grin, his attention returning to his computer screen. He raises an eyebrow at the moving map, looking alternatively between the screen and the unused mouse. Chris then turns a suspicious look in the Tremere's direction. “...” He lets out a grumble, turning his attention back to the marked areas on the map. He observes them all closely, memorizing their respective locations to one another, and takes note of points of interest around them, along with the additional information Lyle gives him.
“Brujah domain huh. They're generally not to bad if you can manage to beat them on the head a few times, and get some respect from them that way.” The vampire shrugs, dismissive of the subject though not about to forget the advice. “Then again, that might just be my experience with them. Suppose their antitribu might be a bit different.”

Chris leans back in the couch for a moment in contemplating silence, once more allowing himself to absorb the information displayed before him on the screen. After that, he closes the computer, glancing sideways at Lyle, clearly ignoring the first part of his sentence, though considering the question. “Space, peace, quiet, lifeboons owed to me, influence everywhere. Elder Scrolls 6 might be nice too, and perhaps a blunt weapon of sorts to rearrange your face...” He smirks tauntingly. “Blood too of course, but I'll fix that problem myself. If only to avoid your endless gloating about the power of your own. Beyond that however...” Chris lets his eyes go through the room given to him for now. “Well, I could do with some new equipment. Laptop aside, I had to leave everything I'd gathered behind. And even this model is not quite capable of doing everything I want it to.”

Lyle breaks eye contact with the computer to give a look to Chris, with a very pleased smile.
(Lyle) Now, "bastard" ? My mother would stab you in the neck for insulting her like that. The hell with that new insult thrown at me so often. As far as hunting goes, I'm not sure Jacob will accept respecting you even if, by an extraordinary focus of circumstances, you manage kick his ass. Other than that the city is simple enough, and big enough.

He makes himself a little more confortable in his sitting position, putting both his arms behind his head, casual.
(Lyle) Now that's a reasonnable list. I'll see what I can do as far as hardware is concerned, I'll put in your last name on the staff's list, in case you want to order up something online, so they'd bring it to you without asking questions. I'll dig up something that may do the trick for a while, but.. I don't really need hardware, in case you haven't noticed. I think I'll delegate over the task of showing you around the city, the who's and that stuff. I barely remember their names anyway. Got a preference ?

Chris lets out a small chuckle, shrugging carelessly as he does so. “Just goes to show that you deserve the insult.” He gives a dismissive wave with his hand on the subject of the Jacob. “Oh I'm quite sure I could at least be one hell of a pain in the ass. But it's hardly worth the trouble. And as you said, the city's big enough to not step on any long toes by accident.” From his tone of voice, it sounds like he'd much prefer to be doing that on purpose.

“I'm set for the immediate future.” He lightly taps his knuckles on the laptop bag. “But unlike some, I still have to depend on the power of my hardware, and laptops just don't pack the same punch a good desktop does. Signing me up in that list should be good enough. I'm probably still be able to reach some of the more secured funds I got hidden away, so that's all well and good.”
The vampire rolls his eyes lightly in feigned annoyance, his voice mildly amused. “What, to lazy to play tour-guide?” Chris too makes himself comfortable on the couch, one arm on the armrest, the other on the knee of his raised leg of which the foot rests on his other knee. The arm on resting on his knee rises to stroke his thin mustache lightly in consideration to the question. After a moment he shrugs. “Nah, no real preference. Long as it's not a ghoul that shows me around.”

Lyle pulls a face when Chris states he deserved to be called a bastard. He then shrugs, uncaring.
(Lyle) Whatever. Seriously, you'll be stepping on eggs, and you gotta trust me on that shit. Stay away from the tail, 'kay ? I'm still trying to get my clan safe from a blood hunt, so if you don't want to lose your favourite Tremere...

He is half serious about it, but he does seem honest and truthful concerning the blood hunt threat. He laughs when Chris mentions ghouls.
(Lyle) Of course I'm too lazy, and I've got way too much work as well. Don't worry, it won't be a ghoul. A dominated mortal will do.

He's openly teasing his friend, then he nods and smiles, adding fast enough.
(Lyle) I'll lend you my childe, probably tomorrow. The others are busy ritual-casting and world-domination plotting.

It seems the usual doings of the Tremere bore the Regent.

Chris rolls his eyes, but nods lightly to show he understands the Tremere's words of caution and will remember them. He makes no comment on it though, deeming the subject finished with that.

The vampire sends an irritated glance at Lyle when he jokingly suggests a dominated mortal could lead him around the city. He lets out an exaggerated, tired sigh, the type of a tutor of some sort trying to get through the thick skull of the most dimwitted student to ever grace the face of the earth. The facade is dropped soon enough at the mention of Lyle's ghoul. Chris raises an eyebrow, head tilting and brows furrowing a touch in thought. He then lets out a small laugh. “Well if their plans don't interfere with my own, I don't see why I should keep any of them from theirs. Perhaps I'll see how I can incorporate their plans in my own. Make sure it's done right and all, with me the complete victor. If your Childe is not preoccupied with conquering the world plans... speaking off, I was meaning to ask about that since you seemed to hint at the existence of one earlier. Claudia, I believe you said? I'm surprised to hear you actually Sired someone.”

Lyle smiles at the death glance given over, obviously liking the reaction it caused. He lets go the subject of world domination, shrugging it off, quite bored of it.
(Lyle) Hm, don't worry about their games of world domination, the Tremere have a huge drawback as we're officially forbidden to even look at mortal politics. So some plots are mostly about personal power and knowledge. Don't mind it much, it's boring shit.

He lets out a little sigh, like the ones one gives when speaking about a difficult and complicated subject when Chris mentions Claudia.
(Lyle) Yea, I sired, I was half-forced to it but I'm satisfied with what she's become. No, Claudia is more preoccupied with staying as far away from me as she can and caring for her friends. She's far too smart to even consider thinking about world domination, really. Careful, I sired her but once she got my blood, I gave her to the Chantry and went back to work. Do I look like a parent to you ? Hm...

He takes out his phone from his pocket and browses through it a moment. He then shows a zoomed out picture out to Chris, a picture dating from the 80's at least, of a Claudia in quite a punk attire, surrounded by friends, and seemingly having some fun on El Bodegon. Seems like an old polaroid picture taken by someone to commemorate the night out between friends.
(Lyle) That's her. Well, that's how she presents herself to mortals.

Arriving by being driven by Estela at the Hotel.
"It'll be a moment, I got to be in the back of the building."

William got out and walked up the ramp and enters the lobby, passes through the building and enters the Chantry.

Arriving at the Hotel, Estela stops the vespa, killing the engine. She nods at William when he dismounts. "Sure thing. I'll be here." She watches the Tremere enter the Hotel and just waits for him to come back, her eyes lazily wandering around her immediate surroundings.

Chris notes the boredom on the subject from Lyle. He shrugs idly though can't help making a last comment on it. Perhaps mostly just to have the last word. “Hm. If you say so. Though if I find out you brought me here just to see if you could get some indirect, political influence for your plans, there'll be hell to pay.” The threat is, of course, not meant seriously. It seems likely he's not even in the politics of Kine.

As the Tremere speaks of his Childe, Chris takes the information in silently. He seems a bit surprised at some of the things said by his friend, evident by his raised eyebrow and slight tracing of his mustache. He chuckles softly at the obviously rhetorical question raised by Lyle, answering it anyway. “Of course you do. Whether or not you'd be good at it....well, that is another matter entirely.”
Shifting his weight on the couch, the vampire leans over slightly to look at the picture on the phone. He observes it silently for a moment, then resumes his earlier position. “Different from what I imagined. Dressed like that.....she'd almost be more Brujah material than Tremere. She was a Cainite already at the time of that picture?”

Marie gives a polite smile and nod at William as he passes by. She eyes out at Estela, salutes her before seemingly doing paper work.


Lyle takes back his phone once his friend has seen enough of what his Childe looks like.
(Lyle) Yes she was Cainite then. For obvious reason we'd rather use "Kindred", but I'm old enough to use Cainite every now and then. Be mindful of your vocabulary, who knows... But yes, she was already of the undead at the time. She gets along fine with the Brujah Primogen, eventually I'll use their relationship to my advantage. You'd imagine I would have embraced some nerd ?

He chuckles at the idea, then shakes his head en denial.
(Lyle) I'd rather do things on my own, I didn't need childer and had to give her my vitae so the chantry would stop being unbearable. Don't be fooled however, she's great Tremere material ; bright, likable, and far more gifted than the most hard working ones. She's packed out of the chantry back in the 1910's or so and so far, she's survived.

He obviously thinks that's some quite of a feat, to survive. There's a hint of pride in his words.
(Lyle) If you're on for the night I could make arrangements for you to meet the Brujah. This way your presence in town would reach the ears of the Prince and eventually it'll haste a little a way for us to get you presented alright.

William gave a tired sigh as he closed the door leading towards the chantry, while he wasn't weary in the physical sense, he was seeing more action then the last 7 years combined. Going down the hallways and entering the lobby, he gave a wink towards Marie and joined Estela once more.
"Having fun? I haven't come across Lyle, but if you wanna go give him a good night kiss, you better do it now."
The neonate was joking of course, tapping his pockets to see if everything was still on its spot.

"While I was getting my glasses, I figured I'd dress more... mortal-y?"
William was now wearing a black mid length jacket, dark gray hat, a dark gray wooden shirt, dark blue jeans and black leathered sneakers.

"Especially if we're going to crawl through Cain knows what. That is one part I never really understood about the Nossies, I mean, why live in those underground places, as long the place has no windows, there shouldn't be a problem right? Unless there is a real comfort in living underground I don't know about. So, we good?"

Spoiler alert:

Chris shrugs dismissively on the subject of the term he used, not even bothering to voice his opinion. It's clear enough in his demeanor. He admits to having suspected a more nerdy Childe based on what he knows of Lyle by nodding slightly.
“Yes, I did expect something like that. Seems like more your style if you had to embrace someone.” Another shrug. “Then again, what do I know about your whole pyramid thing?” Chris listens as his friend explains a bit more about Claudia. Something seems to cause him to wonder, though he doesn't reveal what exactly. The undisguised pride in Lyle's voice draws a small, amused smirk to his features. “Well, if she's capable enough to have survived so far, I'm sure she will survive showing the city to me.”

Reaching in a pocket, Chris pulls his phone out and checks the time briefly. “The Brujah will have to exercise some of their nonexistent patience for now. You could of course drop them a few words of a visitor later tonight, but first I'm going to grab a bite or two in the city.” He moves to push himself up from the couch, sending an inquisitive glance in Lyle's direction. “Unless there are more things you feel compelled to warn me about?”

-----

Noticing the greeting send her way by the receptionist, Estela smiles warmly in return. She doesn't move from her position though, remaining seated on the Vespa and waiting for William.

When he finally returns, Estela grabs the helmet she'd returned to the steeringwheel earlier and readies the vespa. She sticks her tongue out at the Tremere because of his words, but can't help but laugh cheerfully anyway. “Nah, I'll just leave it to you to give him my goodnight kiss when you get back here.” She winks playfully, then takes a moment to observe his change in attire when he mentions it. “Looks good to me. It could use some more color but...that's probably just me.”
She gestures at the backseat of the vespa that he can hop on. While he does that, the young vampire puts the helmet on her head. “I'll see what happens when we get there. I don't really know all that much about the clans. Though I suppose I understand why the Nosferatu want to stay hidden. They're the deformed ones right? Not like they want to be caught wandering around.”

Spoiler:

"Well I don't like bright colours, it's my thing you know. I do try to avoid dark red, that's so cliche."
William climbed on the back of the bike.
"Which is my point exacly, they wouldn't be caught if they kept it private, so it doesn't matter if it's above ground or below ground, they could still use the tunnels or whatever they use for traveling, just elevating their lairs. It must be a matter of convenience and habit I guess."
Securing his hat he wound his arms around Estelas waist.
"Chop chop fledgeling, places to be we have."
William said imitating Yoda.

“Maybe you can try asking one of them? You'd be surprised how many answers you can get that way,” Estela says with a smile. When William climbs on the back, she starts the vespa's engine and after he signals he's ready, she steers it down the road.

Lyle shrugs, uncaring about the subject of Childer. He uncrosses his arms from behind his head to rest his elebow on the knees, thoughtful, serious.
(Lyle) Many Tremere do not choose themselves who they are going to Embrace. Some are not even aware that their blood has been used to Sire. I didn't really have a word in it but I'm happy with her and she can be quite useful if you trigger her properly. As for the Brujah, I'll give your description to their Primogen. I think they've got some system of presenting yourself and get allowed upstairs. I'm not sure he keeps his last name, Jacob, around mortals, but his first name is Theodore and he doesn't change that.

He straightens up and offers a sly smile at Chris, quite meaningful that he will 'ask' him something.
(Lyle) Actually yes. Consider this as part of what you owe me for covering your ass : You will keep quiet the exact nature of our relationship. Everyone here is aware that "that bastard Tremere Kersten likes technology", but I'd rather them not know that I go to E3 or the Blizzcon. And neither that I knew you were a Sabbat bastard to begin with. I'll deny it all and execute you without hesitating if the subject is even hinted at, I'll deny knowing your clan to begin with.

The threat is serious, and the confidence is the Tremere shows clearly that he could do it and that he has done it already in the past. He takes out of his jacket a folded paper with the seal of the Tremere clan on it (it doesn't close the sheet) and hands it over. He then hands over the card pass of the room with a very amused smile.
(Lyle) Consider this your city pass, in case you bump into the Sheriff or anyone else that might need some proof that I'm vouching for you. Oh and consider you got a curfew, young man.

Letter:

Chris gives a slight nod to show he'll remember the name of the Brujah Primogen, or at least make some effort for it. When Lyle straightens himself and gives that oh so meaningful smile, the vampire sighs theatrically and makes a 'bring it' gesture, making a show of preparing himself for anything. He listens with some attentiveness to the Tremere's words. He scoffs openly and rolls his eyes at the threat of execution but seems to be fairly uncaring about the conditions Lyle places on him.
“Need I seriously remind you that the both of us oh so carefully sidestepped any kind of conversation that could lead to the reveal of our allegiance? Suspicions remain nothing but that if no steps to the real facts are taken. Don't worry, I'll keep your secret autograph signing sessions overseas a secret. Should anyone be a little to curious, they'll be send your way. Providing you're not busy showing your staff every corner of the rooms.” Chris sounds dismissive of the subject, only barely taking the secret seriously, but he accepts either way. He appears to be rather confident in his own abilities to avoid at least the worst, should the Tremere decide to attack for whatever reason, and survive.

Taking both the items from Lyle, Chris observes them briefly and reads what's written on the paper. He then proceeds to tug them safely in one of his pockets, grabs his laptop bag, and walks toward the door. With a hand on the doorknob, he pauses and sends a glare at the Tremere, voice dripping with sarcasm. “Sure thing 'pops'. I'll be home....an hour or so before sunrise. Don't want that Deathstar up there catching me outside and sending its rays of fiery doom through my body.” ]With a final wave he slips out the door before Lyle can think of anything else to throw Chris' way and try to make his unlife complicated. Moving calmly, the vampire casually makes his way through the hallway toward the lobby, and from there toward the exit and the city beyond.

Later that night...

Once in the hall of the Hotel, Tarcisus lets go of her, gives a glance at Chris, slightly suspicious, before smiling at some amusing thought.
(Tarcisus) So my childe is housing you then. Better watch your back !

He then walks inside the Foyer, after the other Kindred has responded (if he does), and directly into the Chantry. Claudia watches him go, before giving as well a look at Chris, gives him a slight polite smile, and nods.
(Claudia) Have a good morning then.

She turns to walk out.

Chris casually follows both Tremere towards and inside the Hotel, grinning slightly at the brief surprise and confusion. He lets out a slight chuckle at Tarcisus' little jest, bowing at the Tremere in mock gratefulness. “I shall most certainly keep your warning in mind. Have a good day, Regent.”
He watches the vampire leave for a second, before he turns his attention to the young lady. He gives her a smile somewhere between taunting and deliberately charming, this time directing a bow in her direction.
“And a good morning to you as well.” Chris lets her walk in the direction of the Chantry, but calls out after her before she can actually enter it. “On a side note,” he smirks. “You have failed to convince me of Lyle being the Regent here.” With that, he turns away from the Foyer, and moves in the direction Lyle had reserved for him. He runs a quick check of the room to ensure that he could in fact rest there safely before he allows himself to fall into daytime torpor.

Claudia just shakes her head slightly, not wanting to go into the argument again ; her grandsire certainly is an issue for her to discuss, and she can't call out on him behind his back like that.
(Claudia) Very well, just... avoid addressing him by first name, at least ?

It's an useless plea, but at least she tried. She leaves the Hotel to go back home at a hasted pace.


End of Friday Night

There is a familiar face, but probably not the one Chris wanted to see. He can see Corinna Ansons, in a perfect woman suit and a similarly perfect bun, leave the Chantry with half a frown, and probably something in her mind as she had not noticed him at the moment. Once she has taken a few steps in the Foyer, she does notice him, gives him a slight but polite smile.
(Corinna) Good evening. Is there something I can do for you ?

Noticing not so much a familiar face but a familiar voice in the Foyer, Chris casually wanders in, hands tugged into his pockets. He gives the woman a slight grin, followed by a shallow bow that lacks any semblance of sincerity.

“Evening, evening. I don't believe we've met face to face before, though I have heard your very lovely voice through a closed and locked door.” He smirks slightly. “As for what you can do for me, you could tell me where I can find Lyle. Or point me in the direction of the nearest place where they make custom fitted suits. Either way's fine.”

The Tremere librarian seems a little shocked as she hears and understands who is Chris, and that he was the person in that room with Lyle. She frowns a little at Lyle's name, with a little tic showing clear disapproval and trying to get rid of what it could mean (first name calling + being locked in the same room ? Jesus..), then nods slightly as she understands what is being asked to her.
(Corinna) Regent Kersten is unavailable at the moment, I am afraid. There is a tailor right in front of the Femina Theater. Just follow the tram line right here towards the west, then turn left on the third street. 

She signs towards outside then shows he should turn left exiting the Hotel (so he follows the tramway in that direction, and not towards the north). 

Chris lets out a soft, amused chuckle at the reaction he gets from the Tremere before him, after his usage of Lyle's name combined with her putting together that he was the one with Lyle before, when he had used the 'I'm having sex' bluff to get this particular Tremere to leave him alone.
“Thank you, thank you,” he says calmly, little true sincerity in his voice. Chris gives a bow to the Librarian, a grin playing along his lips. “Do give Lyle my best regards. And if he is still sore....well, just tell him to suck it up and be a man instead of a wuss.” The grin wides as he says that, his voice taunting in nature. Straightening up from his questionably honest bow, the vampire begins to walk away, though not fast enough to not be able to catch and respond to a reply from the woman.