The day came and was welcome after such a night. Noah made preparations to see his guests home safely and it was a good time to relax. However, not long after sunset, he received a text from Milo. It seemed that it had taken several hours for the text to get through.

 "Sal, this is Milo. We have a problem. We have a major player in town. I would put money on him being the whole reason behind everything that's happened tonight. I'm not certain what he's planning but you need to come and gather your friend as quickly as you're able."

 Followed by another message from Victor.

 *URGENT* "Your presence is needed."

Sal texts Victor, On my way

Sal walks outside, and performs a ritual on his front door. He creates a link between a door leading into an out-of-the way alley near the Prince's building, and his own front door, (both lead from outside to outside) with the key being tapping the ring on his finger (specifically his ring) against the wall next to the door before opening the door with the same hand. The link lasts one hour. Sal then takes the doorway to the alley, closing the door behind him. He then walks the rest of the way to Victor's place.

 Sal arrived outside of Victor's penthouse with little trouble. The trip was a bit disconcerting. Colors muted and the world slowed, but he could still see at the periphery of the land of life... but, if he looked in the other direction, he could see the shadows beckoning him back to the Land of the Dead.

 The penthouse was being repaired when he walked in (it looked as though a fight had broken out on the ground floor) but he was ushered upstairs. A quick elevator ride brought him up to Victor's quarters where he found Victor staring out the window.

 He didn't turn around when you came in. He just waited for you to approach. "Milo and your friend have been kidnapped. We believe Reginald is behind it."

Sal was too taken aback to argue with Nefertiti being called his "friend." While he hoped she wasn't an enemy, he didn't think she would call him a friend, and he didn't trust her enough to consider her one. "Reginald? You've got to be-- no, no-- you wouldn't suggest such a thing if he weren't the most likely culprit. Explains Milo's last text. Then its as we've feared all this time. He's just been waiting until we were weak. Wouldn't be surprised if Carmilla was working with him, considering who she went after. Any idea where they've been taken?" And with Talion missing. Couldn't be a coincidence.

 Victor shook his head. "No, but I've got the Nosferatu looking as we speak. I do know that he's working with werewolves. The ones that Milo captured have gone missing as well. We have no leads other than he was headed east from here.

 I don't need to tell you how serious this is. Only one day since Dracula's visit and now we have news of Reginald's return. The Elders will not sit idly by anymore. I need you to help in the search. If your friends can aid you, then all the better... but, if not, then go meet Edgar by the sewage treatment plant. He's in charge of the search for Reginald."

"I'll see if my friends can help. They should at least be able to find Nefertiti, I believe." Sal bowed and returned home the way he came (assuming this took less than an hour)

 Sal managed to return (the entire exchange did indeed take roughly an hour). In addition (because I forgot to mention it), Victor gave the go ahead to investigate the Circle of the Crone Chantry if Sal believed Carmilla may have been connected to Victor.

 Once home, Sal found the group in various stages of activity. Noah was preparing to leave (with Jitters and Wraith), Mistral had vanished, and Michael and Fate were just getting started for the evening.

Michael woke up and was in his standard gear of black jeans, white no sleeve shirt, bullet proof vest, and black leather combat boots. Excalibur was strapped to his hip while Mage Breaker rested propped up against the table while he drank a cup of coffee. It had been a busy day cleaning up the carnage left behind by Dracula and his army. He had seen Sal leave abruptly and return within the hour with a look of concern on his face. By then, two cups of coffee had been consumed. “Something tells me we have some ass to kick. Who is it this time?”

Sal replied, "Milo and Nefertiti have been kidnapped, most likely by a Kidred even the elders speak of in hushed tones. If we don't want the city destroyed-- again-- we need to act before Milo's father gets word. I fear a battle between the two would make Talion's storm seem like an inconvenience in comparison. Noah! Nefertiti has gotten herself and Milo mixed up with another, even more powerful Kindred than Carmilla. More powerful than Victor even. He ran this city back when I was a neonate, and it took the combined forces of Victor, Milo, and my father to drive him away. No big deal, right?" It was impossible to tell if that last question was sarcasm, or a desperate hope for reassurance from the friend who always seemed to have a handle on the situation.

Sal's slate popped on as Noah was mid mana burn. "Easy. Getting Milo back is a cake walk. Getting this enemy to fuck off is the harder part. Just gotta make it not worth his time to follow up."

"Got any more data on him? We are limping along at the moment but I have no doubt we can start working on getting Milo out... But at this rate, I kinda want to invite Milo to join the Ark formally. The perfected fire spirits everyone has would be a delightful surprise for uber vampires."

He was quiet about Nefertiti. "If you have Milo's cell I can try to ping it on the IHLR network. So long as it's not a flip phone I may be able to just make it accept the call for you."

"Also, before I forget, I turned the back of the fridge into a hallow. It's very weak but it's there to help the mages refill."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:44, Sun 15 May 2022.

PM

Sal closed his eyes as be spoke, "Reginald is ancient, vengeful, and incredibly clever. No attempt on his life has ever worked, obviously, and his retribution has always been swift, brutal, and ended with the Camarilla kicked from New York. He promises freedom, personal responsibility and democracy to the Kindred, which sounds good, but what do you call a democracy that has the same leader for 200 years? As for easily rescuing Milo, that would be a bad idea. Milo and Nefertiti are traps, likely meant to provoke us into acting with haste, Reginald once kidnapped the Childe an Elder I once know, and the Elder recovered and exact copy of the Childe, but with someone else inside. We never found all the pieces of that Elder. If we pull Milo through a portal and he's got a bomb attached, his father will hold those of us who survive the blast responsible. He's probably already turned Nef against us. Our best bet may be to evacuate the city and let Reginald deal with the consequences of kidnapping Milo, though I'm not sure even Mistral could portal everyone in New York away at once, even if Paradox weren't a problem."

A trap indeed, Noah nodded but kept the comment internal. "well then. If I was in your shoes I would do a few things."

"The first is to fight fire with fire. We have our former nazi friend who is trying to redeem himself. If your elder enemy is doing all kinds of vampire shenanigans then you have to do something to counter. He has provided a massive boon on giving us counters to the demon already and with the right sugared offer he may likely offer a hand that reggi may not be able to fully counter."

"Next I would make the fight about anything other than he wants. The limit of the most powerful people is the limit of their attention. So you'll need to deep dive his other projects and be ready to blow one up just before you do something to directly to get Milo."

"Lastly, have a strong plan and tell his father. Dracula seems an honorable man and a pragmatist. If he finds out any other way than with a clear plan with allies he will do it his way. Being the first to tell him means you have much more control of the fallout."

"Do you have a list of heavyweights that can help here?"

Michael listened to the conversation between Sal and Noah. Noah had made some good points. Michael stood up and walked up to Sal. “I’m in. Killing vampires is my old pass time after all. I do agree we should not do a direct assault. We know what will happen if he kills Milo which means this Reginald will not think to do so hastily. Hit him where it hurts to at least draw out some of his forces. If we can lure them into a trap, we’ll have the upper hand.”

Sal arched an eyebrow, "I don't think I've met the ex-Nazi to whom you refer, Noah. You'll have to give me his contact info."

Email time

To: NaddaNazi@gmail.com
From: TheBigD@Ark.net
CC: SwagDracula@Ark.net

: I have a friend who may be in need of your aid with a heavyweight. cc in email chain. :

 A few hours pass before the email Noah had set for Sal came through with a reply.

 "That's not funny. I'm quite curious how you managed to managed to force this alert but I'm deleting this email. I will meet you in the park where last we met in three hours for more information."

"And what might be the 'right sugared offer' to secure this friend's help?" Sal asks Noah.

"Knowledge is his bait of choice from what I can tell. And he seems to be trying to better himself. Do be careful though. He is much smarter than he let's on, even as much as he does."

"He won't risk himself but he would be an invaluable resource."

Sal thought for a moment, then said, "Michael, have you met the man I'm supposed to be meeting with? I'd prefer if you come with me, but not if your presence would spook him. I'd guess, based on his background, he's a kindred. Am I off the mark, Noah?"

Michael thought back on his last interaction before responding. “Yes I have met him before. He does not seem easily intimidated. From what I can tell, treat him with respect and it will be returned in kind. The man seems very skilled at acquiring items and information. A trade or payment is always expected in return. We did just acquire a whole library of information gathered by the Hunters. It might be a good bargaining chip to know how hunters think. I of course will go with you for overwatch and protection.”

"He pings as a mage for me but the man is older than dirt and the text he gave to me covered blood magic to an extreme degree. Talking high mage level spells kinda deal. So I put him as a middle of the road kinda person."

"He can also handle souls so Moros with blood magic perhaps?"

Sal cocks an eyebrow. "Really? I guess I shouldn't be surprised a mage can live that long. Talion couldn't be the only one. Anyway, I appreciate you coming with, Michael."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:04, Fri 27 May 2022.

“Shall we get going then? I can bring the Hunter journals unless you have something better for trade. I’ll need a moment to suit up. Never know when trouble will show up these days.”Michael walked into the other room coming out a few minutes later dressed for war with all his weapons in bandoliers across his chest and thigh with his bow collapsed and attached to the quiver. He also brought along Excalibur and Mage Breaker.

 After preparing, the group set out and Michael led Sal back to the place where he had previously met Alfred.

 When they arrived, the man was sitting on the park bench just like last time, dressed entirely in white (gloves, shoes, pants, shirt, coat, and tie) with yellow glasses.

Michael kept his distance without any weapons drawn. He gave a nod to the man. “Pleasure to meet you again. I hope you have been doing well the past week.”The priest knew there wouldn’t be danger of none was presented by their side. Best to keep things civil and respectful.

Sal agrees with Michael, and waits for him to suit up. As he usually did when he went out, he already wore the skin-tight "under-armor" under his suit, and had his pistol concealed in its shoulder holster, and his Spirit Katana clipped to his belt like a safety flashlight. He didn't expect trouble from Alfred, but he knew the city wasn't safe. He asks Trinity to keep an eye out for any hidden threats, and warn him if he notices one.

 Alfred turned on the wooden picnic chair (there was a basket in front of him and a sandwich on the table). "Und greetings to you too. I've been vell enough, thank you. Now, vat is zis talk of a heavyweight und how may I be of assistance?"

 Alfred himself seemed quite nonthreatening currently, remaining seated and seemingly unarmed.

Sal bows his head slightly and introduces himself,"Pleasure to meet you. My name is Sal. I'm sure you've heard of a Kindred who makes even New York's Elders stop what they're doing and take notice. Reginald is his name. We believe he intends to oust the Camarilla, and we don't want that. Additionally, he has kidnapped someone that we need to make sure remains unharmed."

Michael nodded. “I think what may help us is knowing how and where to find him as well as what he is capable of.”

 There was a long pause before Alfred spoke. "Reginald? Are you sure you vant to get involved vith him?"

 He paused for another long time. Then he sighed. "Vhen I was asked to aid zem, Reginald vas ze one who approached me. He offered me a chance to overcome my condition if I could help zem with their problems. Zeir mages learned vhat I had to show zem but zere vere no students quite so talented as Reginald. He took my lessons and adapted my theories to do zings I hadn't even considered.

 He vasn't lying vhen he said he could cure my condition... but ze price vas far higher zan I vas villing to pay. I'm afraid zat it vill be ze same vith you. If you move against Reginald, zen prepare yourself. Victory may cost you more zan you can afford to lose.

 I have borne vitness to some truly terrible creatures in my time. Evil men vith evil ambitions, but Reginald is something different entirely. He HAS no ambitions... at least, not in the vay you or I can comprehend them. His thought process is alien to me. It has been a very long time since I have been truly frightened by someone... but Reginald frightens me.

 You ask vhat he is capable of and, to zat I vill say zat you are asking ze wrong question. You should ask yourself vat you are capable of... because zat vill be ze most important question of all.
"

Sal asks, "But what would be the price of leaving him to do as he wishes? What would it cost this city to allow the Sabbat to move in unchecked? Would the price of stopping him be worse?"

Michael listened to the analysis of Reginald. He sounded like a madman poking holes at the universe just to see what was on the other side. A man with no morals or compass to guide him. The question the man posed was an important one. “Sal, I think that question is very pertinent to you and I specifically. It’s sounds like Reginald is capable of anything and will force us to make hard choices. I fear some of those choices will have us question our humanity. Do you remember what you couldn’t or rather wouldn’t do last week? Could you do it if it meant defeating Reginald?”

Sal said, grimly, "Given no other option? Perhaps." Sal thought, I wonder if stopping Reginald is what started my father down his spiral of madness and paranoia. If so, perhaps I owe it to my father to finish what he started, regardless of what I have to sacrifice. Make his sacrifice pay off. Perhaps that would be atonement enough... After a few moments thought, he said, "Yes, I think I could."

Michael turned to the former German. “We’re as ready as we can be. What exactly did you teach him and how did he expound upon it?”

 Alfred nodded. "Good. Reginald has learned many forms of Blood Magic. He can transport himself to any place zat he has marked. He has learned to transfer consciousness from one living being to ze next, meaning zat anyone you fight who does not die may return. Most importantly, he can obsfucate and transfer sympathy from anyone to anyone else. Other zan zat, he has morphed my teaching by mixing it with his own fleshcrafting, creating something entirely new zat I cannot comprehend."

"Seems in line with some of the things I've heard, though I didn't know about his ability to transport... I wonder if he uses the Eternal Crossroads. You said 'living' beings... can he not transfer his own consciousness, or that of another kindred? What about spirits? Can he see or manipulate spirits? Perhaps a Necromancer or a Lupine... he has Lupines working for him already doesn't he... oh... shit... the vargouilles we fought in the sewer! He's harnessing the Abyss!"

  "Vell, I said 'living' but I zometimes forget that Kindred to not technically apply. Reginald is more zan capable of transmitting consciousness between two Kindred as vell... or between Kindred and Kine. I did teach Reginald about spirits, though I am always careful in zat instruction. Blood Magic can attract zome very dangerous spirits.

 Vat are 'Vargouilles'?"

Sal shrugged, "Well, I'm not sure if I'm using the term correctly, but in the sewers, we encountered abyss-touched Lupines whose heads grew wings and wrenched free of their bodies in a most excruciating manner. And they weren't the first-- or last-- abyssal things we've dealt with. The cult, the Collector, Carmilla... I'm beginning to think everything I've dealt with since meeting our Dragon friend is connected."


OOC:Only just realized, I'm not sure if Sal ever heard anyone call the wolf-heads Vargouilles. I've been thinking of them that way from the beginning because of Planescape: Torment.

 Alfred nodded. "While I cannot say for certain zat Carmilla was associated with Reginald, I can say for certain zat ze cult is. Reginald moves about a cult filled with demons, mages, lupines, und other kindred. Zey believe zat ze rise of synths heralds ze rise of ze 'Destroyer' and ze end of ze world.

 Reginald himself does not seem to be as fanatic as ze others."

Sal face-palms, saying "They believe-- of course they do. The newest thing is always going to bring on the Apocalypse right? Then again, they do keep provoking him."

 "Vell, I cannot say zat zey are entirely wrong. I saw ze God Machine myself. Zey say zat it is ze very first Faustian Bargain and ze architect of ze Silver Ladder. I cannot say I believe everything zey say but zey do make a compelling argument... at least ze ones zat remain sane after viewing 'ze infrastructure' as zey call it."

"God Machine? Is that a machine that makes gods, or one that acts as a god?"

Michael shook his head. “Based on what you’ve said, we have to kill anything and everything that moves when we encounter Reginald and the cult otherwise they will just simply come back. I have a question though. What if Reginald transferred his consciousness or one of his allies into someone and they were exorcised? Also, what do you mean be transfer sympathy?”

 "From vat I gather, ze 'God Machine' is a machine zat acts as a god. To hear ze telling of it, it predated humanity, arriving from ze stars during ze rebellion of ze angels, before zey became known as 'demons'. It brokered a deal to help zem in zeir rebellion but ze price was far higher zan ze Fallen realized. Now zis cult claims to be dedicated to stopping ze god machine and undoing ze pact forged so long ago.

 Ze transfer of consciousness is not ze same as ze transfer of ze soul. I can tell you zis with certainty. Ze soul is more like ze power source for ze body while ze mind contains your personality. It is more complicated zan zat but it is ze basic premise. Ze soul also contains ze moral compass of a person, so a mind without a soul becomes a zombie, motivated only by base desires, but a soul without a mind is nothing more zan a coma patient. Exorcism vill not work on zis form of personality transfer.

 If you find someone who is a victim of zis, I can render aid but I vill require both of ze subjects to undo ze spell... and I should not need to tell you zat ze spell will become permanent if one of ze victims is dead.

 Finally, sympathy is ze term used to describe magic used at a distance. Attempting to use magic on anyone Reginald has protected vill be redirected to anyone else Reginald chooses. Perhaps to an enemy, perhaps to an innocent bystander, perhaps to one of your allies.

 I sent your dragon friend details on zat spell and how to undo it, but it requires casting upon each ward individually."

Michael scratched his chin in thought. “So you’re saying his power is somewhat demonic and Abyssal but does not affect the soul? Casting Magic upon his allies can backfire horribly. You can get rid of the transfer of minds but need both parties to be alive. Question, would this be able to break his spells including the ability to move sympathies?”Michael took Mage Breaker off his back and presented to the man for inspection.

"Are Vampiric Disciplines or the spiritual powers of Lupines affected by Sympathy? Or just firing a magical exploding bullet at him? Of course, that would require getting to him." Asked Sal. He had never really thought about it. He knew some powers worked better if you had a blood bond, but couldn't recall such increasing the range at which they could be used.

 "I cannot say zat I have ever seen him use demonic or abyssal powers, only Blood Magic, but he does consort with zem, zat much I know."

 Alred took the sword and examined it for a time. "Perhaps, but you need to understand zat Blood Magic is much sturdier zan normal magic. It has special rules, yes, but one of ze benefits is resistance to dispelling. You must not rely only on tricks like zis or you vill fail."

 When asked about special powers, Alfred shook his head. "Zey can be, but not usually. Sympathy is usually reserved for Space Mages. Only powers zat work ven you are not in your target's presence are considered sympathetic. If you can see your target, sympathy is rendered null."

 He handed back the Mage Breaker.

Micheal took back Mage Breaker and shouldered it. He then unsheathed Excalibur and handed it to him. “We recently acquired this from a cell of Hunters, Excalibur. Unfortunately, I do not have the knowledge of its full capabilities but knew it needed to stay close to keep them from our enemies. Do you have any knowledge of it?”

 Alfred ran his hand across the flat of the blade, looking first to Michael and then back to Excalibur. "ZE Excalibur? Zat is a most amazing find! I'm afraid I know only legends about zis blade. If you trust me with its care, I could analyze it for you. If not, I understand, considering ze nature of our relationship."

 He offered the blade back, just in case Michael decided to turn down his offer.

Michael took back the sword with a shrug. “Worth a shot, but yeah THE Excalibur. Maybe there is something written down in the Hunter journals about it. Otherwise, I’ll probably have to just take a swing and see what happens. I’ll keep it with me for now since you said Mage Breaker cannot dispel the blood Magic so easily.”He looked over at Sal. “Where do we start?”

Sal thought, then spoke, "Well, Michael, three things stand out to me from what Alfred has told us: First, Reginald marks the places he can transport to. If we can identify the marks, we may be able to monitor his movements. Second, blood magic attracts dangerous spirits. What kind? We look for them, we might find him. Third, the cult targets Synths. If we want to stymie his efforts, we need to interfere in that. Look for places where many Synths gather, and where people are protesting for or against them."

 Alfred stood and tipped his white hat. "Vell, Gentlemen. I apologize but I must bid you adieu. Should you need to speak with me again, our mutual friend should be more zan able to contact me."

 With that, he put his hands in his pocket and began to leave.

Michael thinks on what Sal said before responding. “I should be able to see the marks. If so, I can set a trap of sorts for him should he try to escape to those points. I would imagine blood and pain spirits would flock to him. We might be able to have Noah transmit the gos signals for all the Synths into our slates. When we start seeing some disappear in an area, we can check that out. Can you use your portal magic to mark the same areas he has marked if we need to chase him?”

As the man in white started to leave, Michael gave a polite nod. “I have just one more set of questions before you go. Does he have to mix his own blood into his magic as far as marking places and people when transferring minds?”

 Alfed half turned when asked the parting question. "Yes but not always. It depends on ze spell. Marking places would require his own blood but transferring minds would not you see."

Sal said, "Thank you for your time, Alfred. If you don't mind, here's my contact information. When you have time, if you can teach me the basics of the occult, I'm sure there's a few bits of knowledge rolling around in this old skull of mine that would make it worth your while. And on a more personal note, who does your ensemble?"

Michael gives a nod to the man. “Thank you for your time. I suppose now we should be looking for a starting point to track him down.”

 Alfred took Sal's information with a slight bow. "Indeed. Perhaps ve vill have time to do so one evening. I know a tailor on ze west side of town zat makes my suits. She does a very good job. Now, auf Wiedersehen."

Michael turned to Sal. “I know three areas where I have encountered the cult before. Our best best to start first is a homeless shelter they use as a front. I can hide my weapons from normal people, but the cultists will see them. If anything, it may help to flush them out of the crowd. What do you think?”

"Sounds like a plan. I've never been there, so I can't transport us there... I mean, I'd drive us, but my car is underwater...Can't wait til taxi service resumes. Remind me, after I recoup the cost of that crop duster, to invest in the city's transportation infrastructure." Sal said, though it was hard to tell if thee last bit was a joke or not.

Michael nodded in agreement about the infrastructure whether Sal meant it or not. “Well we could go the slow way and walk there or the fast way where I pick you up and run us there. Remember, I am the fastest man on the planet now. When we get there, if you want to head inside while I keep watch outside. There will be homeless inside, but last time the cultists escaped in a van parked out back. If that doesn’t work, then we can go to the next spot where I encountered the werewolves.”

"If we have time, perhaps I could be made up to look homeless. I have stage makeup in... the Atlantic, somewhere. Nevermind. But a man of my means does not walk into a homeless shelter alone. We always have an assistant, a bodyguard, and usually have a camera crew. I'll call and ask Point Break to meet us there, in disguise. Just promise me, if he is incapacitated, you run him somewhere safe. Don't worry about me."

Sal contacts his "son" and asks him to meet him at the shelter, in bodyguard mode (wearing the full set of combat armor Noah gave Sal, minus the undersuit, unless Noah gave him an extra at some point, with the facemask darkened enough to conceal his identity. And of course, like Sal, Point Break never went anywhere without his friends, Smith & Wesson.)

 Michael picked up Sal and began to run. His wish had granted him increased stamina, but carrying another person was still tiring, requiring him to stop several times in order avoid exhaustion.

OOC: you can choose to go at half speed (25mph) to avoid exhaustion, go full speed (50mph) and power through (roll 2x your stamina to avoid exhaustion) or sprint and try to get there as fast as you can (230mph) (Roll stamina to avoid exhaustion and Dex + Wits to avoid tripping and inflicting 6 points of damage (lethal for Michael, Bashing for Sal))

-------------------------------------------

 Regardless of how you arrive, arrive you did (and, depending on how fast you arrived, you might need to wait on Point Break, who had to travel from just out of town).

 The homeless shelter is just as Michael remembered it. However, the van was here this time.

Michael picked up Sal and ran at half speed zipping through the city to drop him down in an alley close by the shelter where nobody could see them. They had a few minutes before Point Break got there, so Michael began some preparations for the possible battle ahead. Excalibur was unsheathed and held point down on the ground as the priest kneeled. A silver dirk was pulled from his belt and held as a crossbar to the sword forming a cross in front of his bowed head.

The Fate mage began speaking in Tongues Sal had never heard before and began to radiate with magic. His aura projected wings of light on his back and a halo above his head while the smell of smoke from a forge filled the air. His muscles bulged underneath spectral full plate armor. Transparent sigils glowed along Excalibur’s length while the symbol of a cross glowed on Michael’s forehead and heart. The priest rose and sheathed the blades. Determination in his eyes, he turned to Sal. “I am ready and have sworn an oath before God that I shall defeat Reginald at all costs.”The stress of the whole ordeal did put a strain on his body as he absorbed some of the paradox that tried to form.

Sal could feel that his vision was enhanced somehow and could see Michael’s aura despite it having faded once the ritual had finished. “I have blessed you with the same vision as myself to be able to see what blood marks Reginald may have placed on surfaces and individuals. People’s auras will now also be visible to you. Once Point Break gets here, I’ll move to the roof of a nearby building watching the back where the van is. If you run into trouble and need my assistance just whistle.”

14:01, Today: Michael rolled 6 successes using 9d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 2,1,3,10(+7),10(+9),9,9,1,10(+5).  True sight of st Abel.
Splitting 3 successes between Sal and Michael, roll Resolve +3 to see supernatural effects

14:00, Today: Michael rolled 3 successes using 5d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 8,3,10(+9),5,5.  Occlude destiny potency 5.
Potency 5, advanced prolongation to 24 hours

13:56, Today: Michael rolled 5 successes using 13d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 5,3,3,10(+7),9,8,4,1,8,3,7,2,9.  Forge Destiny spell.
4 dice added to rolls directly related to defeating Reginald or penalty against rolls preventing Michael from directly defeating Reginald, duration 12 hours

13:51, Today: Michael rolled 1 success using 2d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 5,8.  Paradox.
Michael takes 1 resistant bashing damage to contain paradox

13:50, Today: Michael rolled 3 successes using 9d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 3,8,3,2,3,6,10(+6),3,9.  Rote quality from probable cause on godsend spell.
13:49, Today: Michael rolled 5 successes using 13d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 2,3,7,1,3,9,3,10(+9),10(+5),5,4,2,9.  Forge Godsend spell on Excalibur.
Michael reduces damage taken by 6 while in possession of Excalibur, duration 12 hours

13:45, Today: Michael rolled 4 successes using 10d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 10(+2),10(+8),7,7,7,2,7,10(+6),6,5.  Alter accuracy spell on Excalibur plus swear oath spell.
Combined Alter Accuracy and Swear Oath spell, next 4 dice rolls with Excalibur gain 9-again and swore oath to defeat Reginald

13:37, Today: Michael rolled 4 successes using 10d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 8,7,9,9,9,6,6,4,2,7.  Armor of St Martin.
Gain Armor 5

13:35, Today: Michael failed (no successes) using 7d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 7,2,4,5,1,5,1.  Probable cause rote quality on Fortitude of st George roll.
13:35, Today: Michael rolled 3 successes using 10d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 7,7,4,2,5,8,10(+3),5,2,9.  Fortitude of St. George.
Gains 1 stamina dot

13:31, Today: Michael rolled 4 successes using 13d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 5,3,7,5,4,4,6,10(+3),4,9,10(+3),6,10(+6).  Probable Cause spell.
3 uses of Probable Cause remaining for 24 hours

7 mana spent from Mage Breaker artifact to cast spells. Currently have 1 combined spell and 4 other spells maintained exceeding spell tolerance by 1.
3 willpower spent for Armor of St. Martin, True Sight of St. Abel, and Epipodean Safeguard (add Benediction dots to rolls against domination, effects against his soul, and mental control

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmX5G8G3EN4

 Point Break arrived soon after Sal and Michael. He was dressed to the nines in his silk suit (with cufflinks), black tie, shades, black (polished) shoes, and white gloves. A sharp eye could make out the holstered pistol at his hip. His hair was combed back with not a single one out of place. He looked very much the picture of a cross between a butler and a bodyguard. However, his face was darkened as requested, making him look unrecognizable. Sal could only recognize him because of the car he arrived in.

Sal greets Point Break, "Good, you're here. Thanks for coming. So here's the plan. I'm going to go in under the guise of wanting to set up a PR photo-op. You know, ladle out soup while the cameras capture everything. You're pretending to be my bodyguard. If a fight breaks out, though, I'm not asking you to put your life on the line. These cultists are after Synths, so whatever it takes, don't get captured. Do what you feel is best, and remember, just because I go down, doesn't mean I'm dead. I do ask you to keep your eyes out for anyone that tries to sneak out, and let Michael know, he'll be waiting outside. Any questions?"

Point Break responds, "Can I pick my name for this Op? I'm thinking, 'Smith'. No need to pretend it isn't a pseudonym, since I'm wearing a mask." Clearly, Sal's flair for the dramatic was replicated along with the rest of his personality.

Michael greeted Point Break with a smile and handshake. “Good to see you again. Yeah I’ll be right outside around back. Main thing is that if a fight does break out is to get outside the building. Gives me more room to work with. We’ll time to get going I suppose.”With that Michael takes off running up along walls and across roofs using his parkour training to get to a spot where he can keep an eye on the van around back while being able to run down the side of the building if need be. His sight taking in the area in case he sees any of the magical blood marks.

OOC: List of current buffs
1) True Sight of St. Abel: See supernatural effects
2) Armor of St. Martin: Armor 5
3) Fortitude of St. George: +1 Stamina
4) Forge Godsend on Excalibur: Reduce damage taken by 6
5) Alter Accuracy on Excalibur: 4 uses left (9-agin on attack rolls)
6) Sworn Oath to defeat Reginald (automatic roll to resist effects that would control Michael)
7) Forge Destiny: defeat Reginald (4 dice added to directly achieve this affect or penalty against rolls that would directly prevent him)
8) Probable Cause: 3 uses left (adds rote quality to roll)
9) Epipodean Safeguard (add Benediction rating to rolls to resist mental domination or control)
10) Occlude Destiny: Potency 5 (prevents others from altering Michael’s Destiny or oaths)

 Michael managed to take his position as "Agent Smith" followed Sal into the homeless shelter. There, he received a number of stares. One of the workers approached, unsure of how to act. "Umm, may I help you?"

"Hi," Sal says, laying on the charm. "I'd like to talk to whoever's in charge here, if they're not too busy." As he speaks, he looks around for anything his currently enhanced sight sees as unusual.

 The man paused for a moment before heading back into a back room and coming back with another man. He was dressed casually and seemed to have been sweating recently. "My name is Earnest. How can I help you?"

Sal reaches to shake the man's hand. "Pleased to meet you, Earnest. My name is Sal Heilyn. I'm looking to earn some public goodwill, and at the same time, help some people. I was hoping I could do a photo op of myself volunteering here, and at the same time, I will make a donation of $10000."

 The man's eyes lit up and he firmly grasped Sal's hand. "Of course! We would be more than happy to set up something for you, and such a generous donation would help so many people."

"Alright! First, Mr. Smith, my head of security, needs to take a look around, so he can prepare for the necessary security. I'd like to look around myself, so if you don't mind, could you give us both a tour of the facility?"

 The man nodded. "Of course! This is the main hall, where we serve those who are less fortunate."

 He led them into a large backroom filled with bunk beds. "This is the shelter area, where the homeless are given a place to rest other than in the streets. Behind those are the bathrooms."

 Through another door and into the kitchen. "Here is our kitchen. We receive donations from food banks and grocery stores to help make sure that people have nutritious meals."

 Then into another room that looked like a church of some kind... though it seemed quite strange. There were a number of religious symbols from different faiths here. "And here is our chapel. We have people from many different cultures here but limited space so we try to accommodate as many as we can."

Michael made his way down the building and peeked around the corner. He needed to take a closer look at the van in case there was a cultist inside. Last thing they needed was to have a car chase with the bad guys getting away.

"Mr. Smith" silently fed everything he saw or heard to Michael's slate, so if he saw something that required a closer look, Michael could relay it to Sal.

Sal marveled aloud, "you serve so many faiths, here! I've never seen some of these symbols; Have you, Mr. Smith?"

"Mr. Smith" looked closely at the symbols.

PM

Seeing no people and no keys, Michael decided to unscrew the caps on the air valves on the tires and slowly let the air out while keeping an ear out for anybody coming outside. After that is done, he snuck around to the back door and peeked inside any windows on the backside.

"Smith" shook his head.

OOC: Can synths modify their voices?.

 Michael found that the back room (while locked) seemed to be a storage room of some kind. There were large cans of industrial sized vegetables stacked along the walls and boxes of what seemed to be beans and other dry goods inside.

"How do you prevent conflict between the followers of different faiths?" asks Sal.

 "We have a strict policy against fighting. Anyone who can't get along will not be allowed back in."

 While Sal was busy talking to the owner of the establishment, Michael noticed a woman walking down the street. Around her neck was the same emblem as the cultist from before but there was something off about her.

 All the cultists seemed a little insane but this one didn't even really seem coherent.

 She shuffled down the street slack-jawed and drooling, chanting "roos roos roos roos."

Michael looked for any strange symbols on the woman besides the one for the cultists. The priest made his way behind the van keeping an eye on the woman. Could this be the work of Reginald or come other faction. He doubted the cult would do this to their own members.

 There seemed to be no further signs on the woman. She continued to shuffle down the street and into the shelter, still mumbling incoherently. There, several people greeted her (though she did not seem to acknowledge them and they did not force the issue).

 She picked up a banana, an apple, and a can of fruit cocktail before turning around and heading back out, still shuffling around as though she were barely sentient, chanting "Roos roos roos roos."

Michael called Sal up on his slate. “Hey Sal, a woman I’ve identified as a cultist just went in there and came out. She seems really out of it saying the same thing over and over. I’m going to check it out and follow her. You come across anything?”Michael proceeded to take to the roofs in following the babbling woman.

 The woman did not seem to notice that she was being followed and entered a nondescript building. There were more returning from some sort of errand (and all seemed sort of out of it).

OOC: To Xanatos Gambit

Sal excused himself to answer the call somewhere private. After confirming with Trinity and Point Break that he wasn't being eavesdropped on, he said, "Besides the usual, the chapel serves faiths I've never heard of, and some that the Church would consider Satanic. Point Break sent images to your slate. Permit him access to location tracking on your slate, so if they jam you, I'll know where it happened. I'll excuse myself from the shelter and rendezvous with you, ASAP." He told the owner he had an urgent manner to deal with, and he'd have get back to him later.

Michael text back to Sal.

Sal heads to the alleyway.

Point break follows.

Michael arrived in the alley holding someone with their face and chest covered with a cloth. He looked back and forth down the alley to make sure nobody else was there before looking back to Sal and Point Break. “Now I’m going to ask you to stay calm and not freak out okay. I will explain after you have a second to compose yourself.”The priest set the body down on the ground and removed the cloth to reveal Milo with a stake buried in his chest. Michael held his hand over the stake. “Do not remove the stake. Somebody else is in his body. His soul was taken by Reginald somewhere else. I don’t know where Reginald or his soul is right now.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:28, Wed 27 July 2022.

Per Michael's request, Sal mentally prepared himself. At the sight of the bound and staked Milo, he closed his eyes, and said quietly, through his teeth. "We'll find it. Somehow. Let's take him somewhere safe. Not my place, or Mistral's, though. And we have to keep him out of sight." Sal looked around to see if any other abandoned buildings connected to the alley.

Michael found an abandoned building relatively intact except for a few broken windows on the top floor about a block away. He escorted Sal and Point Break while carrying Milo’s body. They went inside where Michael laid the body down on a few chairs that were pushed together in a line. The Hunter then inspected the rest of the building before coming back. “All clear.”

 The building was isolated and no one passed by the building. It was a perfect place to smuggle in what was, for all intents and purposes, a corpse.

Michael looked to Sal on how to best proceed from here. The priest was more of the stick while Sal was the carrot when it came to vampires. He wondered how having Milo’s soul MIA was affecting him. Michael knew that there was more than likely a spy in Milo’s body, but maybe the others could help with that or at least imprison Milo’s body for safekeeping until they got his soul back.

Sal called Mistral on a secure channel, "Mist, we found Milo. Pretty sure his soul was swapped for an enemy's. We need a secure place to keep him while we figure things out. Somewhere that he can't compromise us. Our current location will work for the time being but lacks security. Any ideas?"

There was a delay of nearly a minute before Sal received a reply from Mistral over the secure line.  "Bordel de merde.  His sire will not be best-pleased, and woe to those responsible."  Another pause and she said, "I can assure none shall find him until I allow it.  I will wish to learn more of this when possible, but let us begin there.  I will claim him when you are ready, mon ami."

 Edit-

 When Sal gave the go ahead, Milo's body vanished as though it were never there.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:59, Sat 06 Aug 2022.

PM

In reply to Mistral (msg # 103):

OOC: Edited

"He's safe for now," said Sal to Michael. "Only Mist knows where he is. Did you learn anything else about the cult?"

Michael nodded. “My contact says that Reginald’s goal is to cause chaos amongst the Elders. Perhaps he is trying to take over as the ruling vampire power? I’m not familiar as much with vampire culture as to the fallout of such a goal. What I do know is what will happen if Milo’s father finds out. I would rather a repeat of that not happen.”

Mistral called Sal and Michael on an encrypted line.  In lieu of a greeting she said to them, "Our impaled friend is secured, but I believe that to be far from a resolution to the matter.  Will you Messieurs join Noah and myself to discuss next steps?"

OOC:  Reposting the call here, because ST would like this to be the venue for this discussion :)

Michael answered his slate in response to Mistral. “I think that would be the next best course of action. If it’s possible, I would like to set up a ward around him before the stake is pulled out just in case and cast some spells to weaken him.”

Sal replied, "I recommend doing everything we can before pulling out that stake. I don't know if a Kindred's powers lie with the body or the soul, but if its the body, Milo is incredibly powerful, and if its the soul, I'm sure Reginald would put a particularly powerful soul inside. Its also possible that pulling the stake will cause him to explode, or suck us into the the Underworld again, or something. Either way, we await transport, if you'd be so kind."

"Will sunlight be un problème, Sal?  I believe you are correct that safeguards are warranted."  Should Sal confirm that sunlight would be no issue, he and Michael would find themselves enveloped in a bright mist as their surroundings changed drastically in the space of moments.

Bright sunlight and a bracing mountain breeze greeted their arrival on a huge platform of smooth obsidian that curved upward into a spire that reached hundreds of yards higher into a clear blue sky.  The Ebon Pyramid towered hundreds of stories above the already high elevations of the French Alps, and they currently stood on one of its upper balconies where the only views were of sky.  Looking down from the edges of the platform would probably be inadvisable for those with anything like a fear of heights.

Noah and Mistral awaited their arrival, her wearing a blue scarf and matching beanie hat with a fuzzy white pom-pom on top.  The placid archmagess inclined her head to them and offered greeting, "Bonjour, Messieurs.  I believe this to be a most delicate matter, so I have taken all due precautions."  Mistral made a simple gesture that caused a round portal to open before them, looking into a featureless white void with Milo suspended motionless at its center with stake still planted firmly in his heart.  She explained, "This is noplace, a space sans dimension nor connection to reality beyond that which I allow.  We may observe it, but there is no indication of this observation from within.  Any of us here may enter, but he will not be removed until I am satisfied it will be safe to do so."

Mistral then turned to Sal and Michael and said, "I have examined his soul and have found no evidence of its being replaced or otherwise tampered with as you theorized, Sal.  Yet, something has been tampered with, but it is outside my domaines d'expertise.  I would be très intéressé to learn how he came to this state, and who is responsible."

Noah nodded at the cane he lent Sal a bit back. "Hook your slate into the cane through the charger. Give him a good pass over for any metal detection." He had been swaying to music that only he could hear in his human form. Still in a cut suit as the cold never really bothered him anyway. "I can also afford you the Omni sight. Though it is more of a shot gun for magical sights."

"Let me know if you need anything prior to going in, as I can't really go in with you. Only a drone. But it will be a great idea to have some real blood on hand. Poor guys is likely starving."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:36, Sun 14 Aug 2022.

Sal spoke as he followed Noah's instructions. "The thing is, Reginald wants to cause chaos amongst the elders. I'm certain he wanted us, or perhaps Victor, to find Milo. Milo's body is undoubtedly a trap. I'd bet by unlife on it. I fear that stake is the pin to a grenade, so to speak..."

Michael greets Noah and Mistral as he is teleported to the pyramid once again. The priest observed the unconscious Milo as he floated in the void. He indicated to Mistral to be allowed to enter the portal. He stepped through and began praying over the area expanding the ward to its maximum limit. After the prayer was completed, he stepped back through the portal. “The area has been consecrated. Whatever power or person is in there will be weighed down by its power as long as it is within the space. What do you plan on doing? Either we pull the stake or leave him like this until we find Reginald.”

The portal was free for any present to use, although they would find it impossible to remove Milo or any of his effects from it.  Inside was a silent white emptiness devoid of gravity, color, and only illuminated by muted light.  There was also no window looking out from the space from within, which would explain why Milo was not presently burning in sunlight.  Michael found that he had no leverage to move himself in a direction within the noplace, but simply expressing the will to exit saw him returned to the windy platform high up on the Ebon Pyramid.

Mistral looked between Sal and Michael and asked simply, "Qui est Reginald?  He plays a dangerous game, laying traps for this one's sire."

She then elaborated, "As I have said, I can say with confidence that his soul has not been tampered with.  It remains intact and in association with this body.  However, I understand that Sal's so-called kindred have a number of other methods at their disposal to... misuse a being."  The archmage peered through the portal and said, "I have not yet examined Milo's mind, however.  Perhaps this will not be possible in his current state...  We shall see."

Mistral produced a fluted iron wand and an otherworldly silken blindfold from nowhere, which she proceeded to wrap about her eyes.  Standing before the portal she cast her will into the noplace to invisibly peer into the staked vampire's mind...

Most everything was well in hand and the best people to handle this would be only a call away. So Noah did the one thing he best could. He out a hand between Mistral's shoulder blades giving her access to his long list of sphere dabbling.

PM

Mistral reported in a dry, distracted tone, "Milo's memory has been tampered with, but it is difficult to determine how much.  If even half of this is true then he had... quite the night."  Her pale brow furrowed, jaw set hard with a rather displeased expression toward whatever she was discovering.  "It would seem that a mutual compagnon gênante had her own part to play.  She stands with this Reginald, of her own free will."

PM

In reply to Manofdusk (msg # 118):

PM

Michael sighed. He should’ve known they’d figure it out quickly. “Reginald is trying to to recruit. According to her at least. Considering the circumstances and who Reginald is, I’m not surprised that she is playing along. Otherwise, she would probably be dead or her soul taken…again. If his mind has been altered, how do we want to proceed. For all we know he could be crazy, lost his memory, become feral, or try to convince his pops that we tried to kill him. What are your thoughts on how to proceed?”

His phone buzzed in his pocket. A look of confusion showed on his face. He looked up. “Excuse me for a moment. I’ll be right back.”He walked a few steps away and held the phone to his ear. “Hello?”
This message was last edited by the player at 14:29, Mon 22 Aug 2022.

Michael had been talking calmly with someone for a couple of minutes before hanging up the phone and going back to the group. “Nefertiti wants to meet up. I told her it would have to be in a neutral place. This way we can ask her directly what the heck is going on. It would seem that the ball is in your court Mistral as far as where and when to meet. Do you have any stipulations for the meet that you would like communicated?”

Mistral answered Michael, "Milo's soul and mind are his own, to the best of my ability to examine.  His memories have been tampered with and I cannot rule out hidden triggers, however.  I am in favor of removing the stake within the containment of noplace, but I shall first like to confer with the one who has left him in this state."


"Très bien, if it comforts you both to believe there is any such thing as a neutral location.  Ask the others if they have stipulations, for I require none."  A pause, then the blindfolded archmagess added, "Tell her she has précisément one minute."

Noah pulled out a device, pointed it at Michael and then plugged it into his slate. "want to take it alone? If I go she is going to be on her back foot. Which could be useful. He'll, I'm still salty about of it."

"North got her traced back." he was digging in the ihlr system, pinging the towers to fully trace Nef.

Michael nodded to Mistral and called Nef with the response.

After listening to her call he hung up the phone. Looking to the others, he put the phone back in his pocket. “No stipulations. She said she is bringing one with her. She didn’t specify who. Since Noah knows her location, we could probably see about spying on her location if she has someone with her. If I am ported to the meet up spot ahead of time, I could set up a ward that they will be ported into. It will weaken them if that will put you all at ease especially with an unknown guest.”
This message was last edited by the player at 22:56, Tue 23 Aug 2022.

Mistral turned toward Noah when he stated he'd gotten a signal trace on Nefertiti's location through the call.  She opened her mouth as if about to speak, but then thought better of it.  She elected to let him have this one.

Toward Michael Mistral said, "La Reine confers with a strongly-built man who calls himself Hank.  She offers to speak well of him to Victor, so I presume he is of Sal's kindred."  With a gesture Mistral closed the portal into the noplace containing Milo, then turned to Michael to say, "Would such a weakening ward be advisable for a réunion diplomatique on ostensibly neutral ground?  Such measures may be taken by them as a show of bad faith."  She, of course, intended to establish a number of precautions and failsafes of her own, albeit ones that none there save perhaps Noah would be aware of.

Mistral stood poised to bring them to their meeting place.  "Sommes-nous prêts?  Are we ready?"  When all were ready, Mistral completed the supernal working to spirit them away in a swirl of glowing mist to elsewhere.

"Just a hobby mate, Mist is the one you want to talk to if you want to find someone. An unreasonable capacity for mana, that is what I've got" He tapped out a few things and set a ping on the three closest cell towers. "Tracing the phone she is using is letting me set up a pattern."

"How delightful would it be to have a general location of the hideout for Daddy D's next target?" He nodded to Mistral, "I shall do my upmost to keep my maw closed."