Name: Josse Valée

Clan - Bloodline: Toreador

Demeanor: Courtier

Nature : Confidant

Sire identity & concept: Hélène la Juste, Queen of Champagne

Physical Appearance:

[IMGR]https://i.postimg.cc/MT27Wn1G/IMG-1553.jpg[/IMGR]

Personality: Josse is very congenial and mannerly in the appropriate situations. His well purchased tutoring and his time growing up at court taught him not only the rules of etiquette, but the nuances of personal interaction as well. Among a more relaxed atmosphere, Josse is a friendly sort, given to a good laugh and keeping up the cheer of those around him. In quieter moments, he is often a sympathetic ear. Although he may hear his share of gossip, he is not known for spreading the same.

History (both past life as a mortal and present life as a Cainite): When your family is among the richest merchants of Normandy, it is a small thing for them to purchase a minor noble title for themselves, even if it is only a hereditary knighthood. Growing up under said title opens the doors to the finest of tutors and a welcome at court. And when one is endowed with a handsomeness that is often remarked on as true beauty instead, one finds his way into several bedchambers. But when one is caught with the daughter of the Count of Troyes, no amount of money can spare one’s life.

But having caught the eye of Hélène la Juste, one finds their way into a new life that is unlife. The story is that Josse Valée was rescued just before his demise, but the truth was that he was embraced instead. To appease the Count of Troye and hide his embrace, Josse was banished from the Courts of Champagne for as long as the count remained alive.

Josse traveled from land to land, learning from his Toreador kindred and pleasing them with his courtly manner and gift of diplomacy which was in much need given the current age. But given his known state of exile and that diplomats are best kept stored away until needed lest a familiarity with them mute their gifts, Josse was not surprised to be assigned to the kingdom of Castile and León, although it was a land that was new to him and he was not sure what awaited him there.

Agenda : Josse realizes that he is something of a novelty. To be a(n) (un)living work of art to be passed around among the Toreador to see if they can mold and sculpt him into a consummate artist himself. A master of masterpieces as a masterpiece from the masters. And he does his best to grow in the vein that his Clan desires, but he secretly already considers himself something of an artist. Except that his art is in personal interaction, and while the others see his role as diplomat and courtier only as a ruse for his education in the arts, Josse is busy honing his craft at every step. Perhaps even someday he may hold reign over his own demesne to rival that of the Courts of Love from which he has been banished.

Writing sample : Danger abounded in this unknown land. Josse was not able to rely on the celebrations of court life to allow him to move with the flow of others’ actions. Every thing he did could and would be scrutinized not only by those who were suspicious of this unique grouping of Kindred, but from within the unique group itself. Ostensibly they had gathered together in unity to accomplish a common goal to benefit each of their Clans, but there was always suspicion within the Kindred. And with good reason, the histories of betrayal were long and diverse.

It would be harder for Josse to gain any of their  trust without the trappings of good fortune and festivities to surround them. Instead they were relegated to the shadows where danger could come at any moment, from any direction. This would be the true test of Josse’s ‘art’ as he perceived it. So far no overt strife had broken out among them. Josse attributed this to Paavo’s own demeanor. He was cautious but as forthright as possible given his situation. He was also extremely intelligent and very well spoken. He had a gift for putting others at ease, and this made Josse’s own job much easier. Still, Josse needed to help shape the impressions that others formed about the group less some mischance befall them. “I think it is not a matter of IF we will acquire notice, but WHEN and by WHOM.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:48, Tue 25 Apr 2023.

Bump
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:13, Wed 19 Apr 2023.

Father - Sir Charlon Valée

“I am the second son of Sir Charlon Valée, le grand marchand de cidre et d'eau-de-vie de Normandie. The great cider and brandy merchant of Normandy. But to all members of my Toreador family, no matter the age, I am the little brother who is to be taught the nuances of every great art form around the world. It is just that I have a desire to learn the art of rulership, which may be why I have been granted the opportunity to attend your court. Not that I have lofty aspirations of ever reaching a position such as yours, but our family has always been a merchant family and we thrive on interactions with others. If it were not for my own youthful indiscretions, I might have found a lasting place in the Courts of Love. Perhaps it is my true sire to whom you would have the most interest. As a progeny of Hélène la Juste I have garnered many names in my time with the kindred. The Merchant of Love. The Knight of Hearts. The Beautiful Mistake. The ways of this world I have learned honestly, but not in full. Not that I wish to impinge on your hospitality in any manner, but if you would be so kind, instruct this one as you would.”
This message was last edited by the player at 02:04, Tue 02 May 2023.

Name: Josse Valée
Clan - Bloodline: Toreador
Demeanor: Courtier
[SECRET="Starship Tical"] Nature : Confidant[/SECRET]
Sire identity & concept: Hélène la Juste, Queen of Champagne

Physical Appearance:

[IMGR] https://i.postimg.cc/MT27Wn1G/IMG-1553.jpg[/IMGR]

Personality: Josse is very congenial and mannerly in the appropriate situations. His well purchased tutoring and his time growing up at court taught him not only the rules of etiquette, but the nuances of personal interaction as well. Among a more relaxed atmosphere, Josse is a friendly sort, given to a good laugh and keeping up the cheer of those around him. In quieter moments, he is often a sympathetic ear. Although he may hear his share of gossip, he is not known for spreading the same.

History (both past life as a mortal and present life as a Cainite): When your family is among the richest merchants of Normandy, it is a small thing for them to purchase a minor noble title for themselves, even if it is only a hereditary knighthood. Growing up under said title opens the doors to the finest of tutors and a welcome at court. And when one is endowed with a handsomeness that is often remarked on as true beauty instead, one finds his way into several bedchambers. But when one is caught with the daughter of the Count of Troyes, no amount of money can spare one’s life.

But having caught the eye of Hélène la Juste, one finds their way into a new life that is unlife. The story is that Josse Valée was rescued just before his demise, but the truth was that he was embraced instead. To appease the Count of Troye and hide his embrace, Josse was banished from the Courts of Champagne for as long as the count remained alive.

Josse traveled from land to land, learning from his Toreador kindred and pleasing them with his courtly manner and gift of diplomacy which was in much need given the current age. But given his known state of exile and that diplomats are best kept stored away until needed lest a familiarity with them mute their gifts, Josse was not surprised to be assigned to the kingdom of Castile and León, although it was a land that was new to him and he was not sure what awaited him there.

[SECRET="Starship Tical"]Agenda : Josse realizes that he is something of a novelty. To be a(n) (un)living work of art to be passed around among the Toreador to see if they can mold and sculpt him into a consummate artist himself. A master of masterpieces as a masterpiece from the masters. And he does his best to grow in the vein that his Clan desires, but he secretly already considers himself something of an artist. Except that his art is in personal interaction, and while the others see his role as diplomat and courtier only as a ruse for his education in the arts, Josse is busy honing his craft at every step. Perhaps even someday he may hold reign over his own demesne to rival that of the Courts of Love from which he has been banished.[/SECRET]

Writing sample : Danger abounded in this unknown land. Josse was not able to rely on the celebrations of court life to allow him to move with the flow of others’ actions. Every thing he did could and would be scrutinized not only by those who were suspicious of this unique grouping of Kindred, but from within the unique group itself. Ostensibly they had gathered together in unity to accomplish a common goal to benefit each of their Clans, but there was always suspicion within the Kindred. And with good reason, the histories of betrayal were long and diverse.

It would be harder for Josse to gain any of their trust without the trappings of good fortune and festivities to surround them. Instead they were relegated to the shadows where danger could come at any moment, from any direction. This would be the true test of Josse’s ‘art’ as he perceived it. So far no overt strife had broken out among them. Josse attributed this to Paavo’s own demeanor. He was cautious but as forthright as possible given his situation. He was also extremely intelligent and very well spoken. He had a gift for putting others at ease, and this made Josse’s own job much easier. Still, Josse needed to help shape the impressions that others formed about the group lest some mischance befall them. “I think it is not a matter of IF we will acquire notice, but WHEN and by WHOM.”
This message was last edited by the player at 01:26, Thu 27 Apr 2023.

Classic Gamer; Just FYI, we all started with a full blood pool. You'll notice we have a little section at the end of our posts with details. Here is what ST requested we keep there:

To keep all our combat information close at hand for the game, I would suggest that:
we automatically roll initiative at the start of every new night, just to have it already done and there if needed (I will perhaps ask for a reroll if I feel certain factors have impacted your character in the story that may influence your earlier initiative roll-- say, if you're character is wounded or encumbered for any reason, etc.
have your weapons and armor stats displayed and ready;
have your items and secondary - other weapons stats displayed;
have any activated disciplines, modifiers or effects be displayed and ready;
have your current health level & blood points displayed and ready.
Keep all those stats and the info at the bottom of every post (as a signature)... just makes it easier for me to keep track of all of this as the scene progresses.
Initiative : Dexterity + Wits + Celerity dots. At the beginning of every night, roll one die, and add the Initiative rating to the result. (Ex: 2 +3 +1 +1D10)

[FIELDSET="OOC"]Initiative: [URL=https://www.rpgcrossing.com/sh...#post9661022]15[/URL]
Weapons and armor: [TT="Dagger"]Str+1L[/TT]
Items of note: [tt=Engolpion]crussifix as amulet[/tt], orthodox prayer rope, medical/surgical supplies, writing equipment
Activated disciplines, modifiers, or effects: Heightened Sight and Touch
Health level: Full
Willpower: 3/3
Bood points: 14/14
[/FIELDSET]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:57, Tue 09 May 2023.

[FIELDSET="OOC"]Initiative: [URL= https://www.rpgcrossing.com/sh...2#post9689642]6[/URL]
Weapons and armor: [TT="Dagger"]Str+1L[/TT] [TT="Composite Armor"] Soak: +2B/+3L | Penalty -1 Dexterity[/TT]
Activated disciplines, modifiers, or effects: None
Health level: Full
Willpower: 3/3
Bood points: 11/11
[/FIELDSET]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:52, Tue 09 May 2023.

Necronomicon
ANCIENT BLOOD
Thou shalt not dare to utter any of the writings on these ancient pages aloud, lest thou wishes to make an offering of thine own blood.




Name: Josse Valée


Alias/es: None


Nationality: French


Generation: 11th


Clan: Toreador


Sire: Hélène la Juste, Queen of Champagne


Occupation: Courtier


Gender: Male


Preference: Heterosexual


Age: 26


Appearance: Josse stands 6 feet and weighs in at 200 pounds. He has black hair and grey eyes.

https://i.postimg.cc/MT27Wn1G/IMG-1553.jpg


Personality: Josse is very congenial and mannerly in the appropriate situations. His well purchased tutoring and his time growing up at court taught him not only the rules of etiquette, but the nuances of personal interaction as well. Among a more relaxed atmosphere, Josse is a friendly sort, given to a good laugh and keeping up the cheer of those around him. In quieter moments, he is often a sympathetic ear. Although he may hear his share of gossip, he is not known for spreading the same.


Merits: Resources 3, Status 3


Flaws: Josse is inexperienced in Kindred society.


Disciplines: Auspex 4, Presence 2


Fear: True Death. Now that Josse has a second chance with his (un)life, he fears that he will be destroyed before he has a chance to enjoy it.


Backstory: When your family is among the richest merchants of Normandy, it is a small thing for them to purchase a minor noble title for themselves, even if it is only a hereditary knighthood. Growing up under said title opens the doors to the finest of tutors and a welcome at court. And when one is endowed with a handsomeness that is often remarked on as true beauty instead, one finds his way into several bedchambers. But when one is caught with the daughter of the Count of Troyes, no amount of money can spare one’s life.

But having caught the eye of Hélène la Juste, one finds their way into a new life that is unlife. The story is that Josse Valée was rescued just before his demise, but the truth was that he was embraced instead. To appease the Count of Troye and hide his embrace, Josse was banished from the Courts of Champagne for as long as the count remained alive.

Josse traveled from land to land, learning from his Toreador kindred and pleasing them with his courtly manner and gift of diplomacy which was in much need given the current age. But given his known state of exile and that diplomats are best kept stored away until needed lest a familiarity with them mute their gifts, Josse was not surprised to be assigned to the kingdom of Castile and León, although it was a land that was new to him and he was not sure what awaited him there.


Affiliations: Toreador


Other:
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:22, Wed 18 Oct 2023.

The rooms were more than serviceable. With their lack of windows and positioning so that no sunlight seeped in through cracks in the boards Josse thought they were lifesaving. Or unlife saving if you got into semantics. Which he preferred not to do. He was a sentient being with free agency, that was close enough to life for him.

But the rest was perhaps not close enough to sleep, disturbed as it was by some form of raucous below. It seemed that the woman that they had encountered earlier and made a poor attempt at both helping and using her cottage for safety had followed them and was making a commotion about their presence.  She must have got a glimpse of their nature as she screamed on about monsters and demons.

Now fully awake and so assuming it was dark enough out to remove from their rooms, Josse had his thoughts confirmed by closer voices outside in the hallway. It seemed that two of his companions were of the mind to step in the midst of the commotion rather than wait for it to die down.

Not wanting a repeat of what could happen when they acted outside of consensus, Josse felt he should step outside his door as well and enter into the discussion.

Josse smiled to both Stefano and Sir Godith once he discovered that those were the two in discussion. The others either determined to let things follow their course below without interference, or were simply taking a moment in their rising.

“Who would trust the ravings of a mad woman going on at length about ungodly monsters in the guise of honorable knights and lords who would dare spend good coin to rest a few hours at an inn after hard and swift travels on their way to the local earl on behalf of none other than the king himself? Such treachery.”


Josse tapped on his chin as if in deep thought. Yes, if they must speak on the matter, it would be wise to portray things in a certain light. “A woman who called us monsters to our face simply because of our nobility when we offered to investigate her claims. A somewhat doubtful tale of Warden DuBois threatening to imprison her three brothers if she did not become a wanton woman for not only the warden himself, but all of his men included. And in the fugue and fury of her mind she was given to delusions that we ourselves were sent by Warden DuBois to garner her submission. Unless something untoward has happened between that meeting and now, I dare say she remains unmolested. Assuredly not by my honorable companions or myself.”

Josse nodded to the others, hoping they would see the value of such an argument on their behalf, but hoping that it might not even come to such a position. “This is what I suggest be put forth if needed. But deem that discretion might be the better part of valor in this situation. That we must only defend ourselves if somehow placed on the defense. Otherwise, we simply take our leave and resume our mission swiftly.”


 [/FIELDSET]

[SPOILERBUTTON="Dice"]
Perception (remind me to get awareness)
[dice]3d10smch6 = 1768287757 [/dice]

[/SPOILERBUTTON][/QUOTE]