And so the place for the meeting was chosen. Lady Liberty had come away from the storm in better shape than the rest of the city. The storm had eaten away the oxidization leaving her gleaming copper form blazing in the night in a way that had not been seen in centuries. It was as if she had just been constructed.

 While it was still sparsely populated due to the reconstruction, it would no doubt be flooded with tourists in the following months to see the spectacle that may never come again.

Michael, Noah, Sal and Mistral arrived on Liberty Island in a swirl of bright supernal mist.  The archmage said to them, "If you've any preparations to make, make them now.  Our guests will arrive momentarily."

Nefertiti and Hank were suddenly enveloped in a bright mist that swirled about them and then revealed them to suddenly be elsewhere.  They found themselves on Liberty Island near the center of Flagpole Plaza with the statue of liberty in the near distance, shining in the light of nighttime spotlights.  There were bystanders milling about, but all gave the gathering a wide berth and seemed unable to notice their presence nor to hear any sound they might make.  It was as if the gathering was not even there at all.

Stood across the open plaza from Nefertiti and Hank was a porcelain-pale woman garbed in magnificent robes and a black blindfold, blue-and-white hair flowing about her as if underwater.  She was accompanied by three men, all known to Nefertiti (ooc: who can describe themselves for Hank's benefit if they're inclined).  The woman greeted the pair of kindred with a placid demeanor, "Bonjour, Nefertiti.  It has been some time.  Enchantée, Hank.  I am Mistral.  This meeting is thoroughly shrouded from the those outside it, so all may speak freely here."

The otherworldly figure paused, then said, "A mutual friend of ours, Milo, was staked through the heart and abducted by a grave enemy.  Nefertiti appears to be on friendly terms with this enemy despite this transgression against her adoptive sire, and has elected to leave him in this state for some time.  I am sure there is a very good explanation."  Mistral made a gesture that opened a circular portal edged in bright vapor, which looked into a featureless white void with Milo suspended motionless with stake still planted in his heart.  "Perhaps you would like to remove the stake and explain matters to Milo personally, Reine?  He is rather put out by the whole affair, you understand.  As his father will be, should knowledge of this reach him."

OOC: We're in this plaza, except at night with Lady Liberty all shiny again :)

This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 04:09, Wed 24 Aug 2022.

When the group showed up Noah was sporting his human guise. A well-cut suit with a deep cobalt blue Tartan tucked into his vest. He was sporting his kevlar side bag and his golden cane, the ManaStar. A cane that was well gaining back its power. "Thank you for the preparation time. And thank you for the cover."

"Here is a new one for you Mike." He took a knee and put his palm down on the ground. "Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand a mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame. “Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she with silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

He sent his power and mastery into the island, a seed that he pulled on to anchor a temporary Hallow. He couldn't guess the plans that would be going on but connecting to the island would afford him more than just mana.

For the meeting itself he let Mistral talk, he was just there for support.

When Nefertiti and Hank appeared from the mist she was standing there ever so elegant and graceful, dressed in a very sleek black evening gown that was from fitting to her body. A very low cut cleavage area almost revealing all of her perfectly formed breasts.  Her hair was hanging down her back straighten, not a curve or curl.

Her eyes looked at those standing on the other side of the open plaza.

"Bonjour Archmage" she replied in a calming tone.

"Yes and time seems to have been kind to you. she looked about as she took notice of the area warped in some from of Arcana.  She still had the gift of sight be in of Prime Arcana.

Her eyebrow slightly arched at the mentioning of mutual friend, for she can't remember ever seeing them speaking as friends or even Milo speaking of knowing her so well to be called a friend.

"I'm friendly to all that wish to enlighten me on my nouvellement formed condition.  One that our mutual friend is aware of. she replied to her.

As Mistral opened a vision portal to Milo she gazed over at him and was pleased to see that the stake was still in there.

"Perhaps not, Archmage.  I don't know what condition he might be after his time with Reginald. her eyebrow arched again when Mistral called her Queen.  "There is my sweet Mistral that I knew, calling me by my true name.

She turned to Michael "Thank you for not allowing them to be hastily and removing it.  Was you able to determine anything else that might be altered in my adopted Sire.

Then she looked back to Mistral. "If you wish to inform his Sire of his condition, please do.  I'm sure the city would enjoy seeing him again.

A bit thrown off by the sudden shift, Hrafen had dealt with such things before, but never comfortably. Teleporting made him uncomfortable, after all. Still: he knew that he was standing amongst Kindred, and others with gifts that he did not wish to invoke, so he maintained his peace.

A simple pair of jeans, and a black t-shirt sort of made him stand out like a sore thumb amongst those present who were dressed for far better social situations than a haphazard meeting of strangers near Lady Liberty.

Glancing sideways at the other man, as he seemed to invoke something or other, he watched in idle curiosity, but nothing more. He did not want to stand out here. Them calling him Hank was preferable, as he'd always used that as a little trick to separate those who knew him from the Old World, and those who had met him recently.

Mistral...

He chalked that name up, knowing it a bit already from passing. When she addressed him, he nodded his head in respect, but did nothing more. He really didn't want to stand out here, as his instincts were telling him far more was going on here than was obvious.

Michael closed his eyes and opened them again to look upon the beauty of the reinvigorated Statue of Liberty. It was a beautiful sight. The priest decided against the ward since the others were not being as hostile or vengeful as he expected them to be. He stood a little closer to Nef and Hank than the others were making sure he was the first line of defense should Nef’s associate not be polite.

Michael still had all of his gifts in full bloom as not much time had passed since invoking the gifts of the Father. From the ground up, the priest was ready for war. The black combat boots rose up to green fatigue pants with bandoliers of wooden stakes on one thigh and silver throwing knives on the other. A white sleeveless shirt rested under a black Kevlar vest. The weapons he carried were several: Excalibur hung in a sheath attached to his belt, collapsed compound bow with a quiver of various arrows on his back, and a Zweihander named Mage Breaker strapped to his back. Two items did seem out of place: a small lantern hanging from his right hip and an intricate rosary hanging from his neck. The five o’clock shadow and short black hair gave him a sort of rugged look. This of course was in slight contrast to the spectral armor, Angel wings, and halo that encased his for currently.

The priest nodded to Nef. “Good to see you again Nef. Well met Hank. Not too hard to figure out your a vampire. Nef, if you want me to inspect you for Reginald’s marks I can do so now. Same with your associate. As for the stake in Milo, I did communicate that it may not be the best idea. Hopefully you can explain to everyone your current situation.”
This message was last edited by the player at 03:20, Thu 25 Aug 2022.

Nefertiti looked to Michael and nodded her head "Only me.  He has nothing to do with it she needed to know if there was what she thought was true.

Noah smiled one of his smiles when he wanted to figure something out. He looked at Hank as he rumbled enough to shake bricks under his feet, "Who do you say you are? I would be delighted to know the name, title, and goal of a new contender. Or if you are feeling silly, three facts about yourself to establish report."

"I am Noah, the dragon of purgatory, I have a fancy with technology, and I have a education in psychology."

Raising an eyebrow at Michael's words, Hrafen turned to face the rumbling voice of the dragon of purgatory as he spoke as well.

What on earth did I get myself into? he thought to himself, trying to keep his facial features locked stoically. He knew better than showing interest in anything being said: that would only draw attention.

Attempting to respond to the dragon, now that he was on the spot, he cleared his throat, and spoke in return,

"I am Hank. The farmer of ordinary lands. I have a passing interest in politics, and a mild interest in causing no trouble." he said flatly, leaving it at that. He attempted to match the dragon's format for a response, in the hopes that he was left out of things, but it was obvious that he was slightly awkward with it.

"Politics, much like a herd of pigs, bring many wonderful benefits. But one should wonder after the mess it can make."

"Though you've fallen into strange company if you wish to live a troubled free life. Excitement is your tack and gruel it seems. But your company has a knack for getting out alive."

"Whom do you represent? If I may ask, the prince or someone else?"

Clearing his throat again, clearly uncomfortable with the implications of the question, Hrafen shook his head,

"Only myself. I support the current regime, whomever that may be at any given time, but I represent noone." he said clearly, not wanting to be dragged into any political battles right now.

Sal appears to be a tall Nordic man in his mid twenties, but Hank could sense the predator's taint of a Kindred likely much older. He wore an expensive, dark-blue pinstriped suit, the right-side of which bulged slightly below the shoulder. He stood stock-still, eying Nefertiti cautiously. "Pleased to meet you Hank. I'm Sal. I don't mean to be rude, and I'd be happy to chat with you later, but I'd really like to hear what Nefertiti has to say. But first, Nefertiti, thank you for keeping Milo safe. There's no telling what would have happened, had you removed the stake."

"'Sweet' is a word very rarely used to describe me, as I daresay 'Queen' is rarely used to describe you in these days.  As titles go, I find it... incomplete."


"Milo's soul and mind remain his own, but his memory has been tampered with.  Recollections have been given to him seemingly for the purpose of torture."  Mistral gestured to the circular portal that looked upon Milo suspended in a featureless white void with stake still embedded in him, then explained, "I have taken due precaution.  You now see Milo in Noplace, a space sans dimension nor connection to reality beyond that which I allow.  We here may enter if desired, but no result of the stake's removal may interact with this world."


After Sal said his piece, Mistral seconded, "As would I.  Once we hear how Milo came to this state and have done due diligence in understanding his condition, the stake must be removed.  Milo has had quite enough."


"I bore firsthand witness to his sire's prior visit, and I daresay none would enjoy such a return."  Mistral cocked her head just slightly, gleaming hair swirling around her upon unseen breezes as she asked Nefertiti, "You understand that what Reginald has done is a declaration of war against the Prince and against Milo's sire, non?  Considering how gladly you suffer assault and and insult to your adoptive sire whilst consorting with and taking aid from Reginald... one wonders which side you are on."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:55, Fri 26 Aug 2022.

Nefertiti was waiting for Michael to respond to her request before speaking more.  Seeing how the group was so quickly to start and not giving any time to wait.  She only shook her head in sheer sorry for this is the reasoning why she didn't fully like being around them.  They were always in such a rush.  Because of them, in their rush to attack Carmilla, things went wrong and there was repercussions that they surely didn't expect.  What dangers are they now willing to risk and blame others on their errors.

She listened to Sal and all the words coming out of Mistral's mouth.

To Sal "That is not my place to do.  As it shouldn't be anyone's at this time.  My adopted Sire shall and should remain that way until his conditioning is fully understood. she thought for a moment. "Its all new to me.  And his safety is my responsibility.  No ones else.

My adopted Sire

PM

Michael calmly walked forward to Nefertiti and gave a slight nod. “If I have your permission, I would like to do a visual inspection of your person to see if Reginald has left any of his blood marks on you.”After his circling of Nefertiti, he moved to stand in front of Hank. “I don’t know you that well. For security reasons, may I do a visual inspection of your person for Reginald’s blood marks? I won’t touch you, but I will need you to lift your shirt to see if there is a mark underneath.”

Nefertiti looked to Michael “Only me. You already asked about him and it is not needed.

Unless you have picked up rude habits from Noah

Noah just smiled as he started drawing runes on the brick with his cane. The gaslighting wouldn't get to him.

Michael looked at Nefertiti. “You know me better than that. I am actually being polite asking for permission and consent. No offense Nef, but unless you are his Matron he is free to decline of his own accord without consequence. It would be a good show of trust.”He looked over to Hank. “May I ask how you know Nefertiti? You were not present last time I saw her nor did she mention you.”

She looked to Michael “Yes I do know you and this is truly out of character. Have you changed so much as to not trust my judgment or my word. As part of this Cabal. That should be good enough. her eyes gazed at the symbols “I would removed them of your own will. Or I will. her beautiful face seemed to show signs of sadness as those before her act as if she was the enemy.

“We are here of our own free will.  Please don’t have me regret that decision.

Noah nodded once, "Not everything I do is of wild plotting and planning. First time I've been to the statue of liberty." He pointed out the markings. "G and D. It's a very good wine, you should try it some time. Now, you're not here to talk to me. So I will remain right here, nice and calm."

He smiled at lady liberty. "God bless the French."

Michael sighed and stepped back. “As you wish. Please do not speak to me as if I am your subject to obey your every whim. That is not how friends treat each other. I was worried about your safety with someone unfamiliar when we all know Reginald can alter people’s minds and swap their souls. I apologize if my concern for your safety crossed a line.”He noticed the runes being drawn by Noah and Nefertiti’s response to them. The distrust between the sides clearly present.

“What is the point of this meeting? Nothing has changed. Reginald is the symbol of chaos seeking to disrupt vampire society. Once upon a time, I would have led my Conspiracy to stoke those flames so that you would all kill each other. I would like to think I have been enlightened at least a little by recent experiences once the veil had been lifted. The Hunters tortured and killed innocent people just because how how they came to be. That was wrong. If Milo and Victor were not allies to Sal and our Cabal, I wouldn’t care what happened to them. My concern is for those innocent bystanders getting caught in the crossfire. In this upcoming conflict, I will stay neutral until one side or the other threatens the lives of the meek and innocent. Upon that fateful decision, I will exact divine retribution upon them with extreme prejudice.”The priest then moved to in between the two sides but out of the way with his hands crossed physically declaring his stance.

Mistral said drily, "What a marvelous job you have done of it."  She then turned to the portal and added, "Need I remind you that we speak of a man with a will of his own, not a possession of yours to do with as you please.  The choice of the stake's removal is his, not yours.  I have asked him, and await his answer."


After Michael's rather magnanimous response, Mistral asked bluntly, "Why should any of us trust your word, even as we discuss the sire you have betrayed?"  The blindfolded archmage went on in an icy tone, "Allow me to spell it out for you, Reine de rien.  We have not come simply to discuss the stake in Milo's heart, but what it represents: a declaration of war upon the Princedom of New York and upon Milo's lord sire.  You consort with and take aid from Reginald, the author of this deadly provocation.  Under the circumstances, I believe suspicion to be rather justified."

"Yet, we meet now upon neutral ground to offer you the opportunity to explain matters, and to prove that you are not our enemy.  We are prepared to listen, but I will thank you to trifle with us no further."

She waved her hand as to dismiss the tone and words coming out of the Archmage’s mouth.

It is interesting how you can claim to know the laws of the kindred when you are not one or even mortal now. Milo granted me freedom to do as I please.  Why don’t you ask Victor. He too knows that have interacted with Reginald.

She looked to Hank “If you wish to stay here with them you are welcome but I grow bored.

Mistral had been prepared for the likelihood that this diplomatic effort might go poorly, but even she hadn't expected such absolute disdain for any degree of accountability on Nefertiti's part.  "I make no such claim, but it takes no exclusive knowledge to appreciate what Milo's lord sire does to those who harm his son.  This is why we have gathered to discuss, so you may enlighten nous la paysannerie ignorante."  The tragedy of the matter was that there surely was common ground to be found here, but Nefertiti refused to give even the barest explanation nor meet anyone halfway.  She had the hubris of a queen, at least.

Mistral added, "We did not ask Victor.  We asked you."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:09, Sat 27 Aug 2022.

 As the two sides argued about the ramifications of what had occurred, Mistral noticed that Milo began to move. Not much (just his right arm and maybe only 6 inches) and not very quickly, but he managed to move nonetheless. Then he stopped and returned to his previous position.

Raising an eyebrow at Michael's cautious questioning, he feared that perhaps the man, clearly blessed in the arts of war, could almost sense his own capabilities, and was probing to see if his suspicions were correct.

Thankfully, Nefertiti stepped in and defended him, which surprised him in a very positive way. A loudly speaking queen worked wonders for a silent, brutal murderer like himself, and rekindled some deep seated thoughts about Corina... Wherever she had ended up.

When Nefertiti offered him a quick chance to escape, noticing a mage performing some arcane scribblings, and the tensions rising, he knew that now was the best time to remain unknown... A silent, easily forgotten memory to those more arrogant than himself. Nodding to her words, he stepped a foot closer to her, indicating his desire to leave matched her own.

Noah kept drawing on the bricks. This time it was a lower half moon, within very roman letters of ARK. "Nef, if you can't understand why people are angry, that is something that can be considered. There are people who cannot fathom the emotions of others. That hasn't changed how we treat you, if you recall I pulled that caustic blood that was going to destroy you when you attempted to devour Carmilla entirely."

"I lost face with my mentors getting you checked out, and as it turns out the soul you had been granted was as sour a gift as I have seen from the villains I've worked with before. The bad guys don't give gifts without a motive. I would do that for any member of ARK, in your case not just sacrificing my arm in a great debt of pain, but also blocking her attempt to finish you off with my wing, losing it also. In turn you've been gaslighting which can be forgiven."

"Right here and right now you are being asked to tell your side of the story. You don't get to say we didn't reach out to you. You don't get to say we did ask not hear your side of the story in spite of how we feel or think. This is your bridge to burn, your olive branch to break. The people who are extending it to you have been been burned, insulted, and wounded by you. Yet they still extend that bridge and olive branch."

"Are you going to burn us? Because you won't be leaving here without clearly stating you choose to not tell your story, even then I myself will hold you here until I recover my lantern spirit from you. StarLight is absolutely terrified."

Michael held up a hand. “If I may. Noah, your drawing of runes is causing Nef concern. Could you please inform her of what you are doing? Nef, could you please inform us of your story and intentions in regards to Reginald. After that, we can all part ways peacefully and on good terms. I don’t believe this to be an unreasonable request from either of you.”He lowered his hand and hopes reason could prevail.

Nefertiti first looked at Michael "You are not the Michael that I first meet, the one what was caring and trusting. The one that I gave life energy to save from death. she shook her head "You are someone else by those words and actions.  To accuse me of treating you as a servant only makes me believe that your former self has been lost and is more attuned to his her eyes blazed at Noah.

You all are here for me to tell you my story.  Why should I, this is my life and I shall do as I please.  I have not once demanded anything from any of you.  Never have I tried such devious plots. she shook her head.

Then she noticed that Hank moved a step closer and she was about to leave this so call Witch hunt.  All one sided, but she was very shocked that of all those before her Sal was being the most gracious at the meeting.  For some reason or another she thought he would of been the one they would have to restrain for the condition that Milo was in. She glace at him "It seems that this was not the time or place for us to meet.  I can only ask that you would keep my adopted Sire safe for now.  Until I can find a way to make sure that there is no after affects of Reginald's mark upon him.

Then Noah started to speak when just moments ago he said that "you're not here to talk to me" and then he caustically threaten her by demanding her to return what was once given to her.  A smirk appeared upon her face as she leaned into Hank "This was the group of so called people I was associated with.  My eyes got opened and I can see that they are only a curse upon my existence here. a slight giggle "We did call ourselves friends once.  But it seems that that word is only feasible when one is docile to them.  Never trust that one, as he has just shown his true nature.  He will lie and plot against you when he boldly lies to your face.

"Noah, if you wish to speak with me for now on.  You will call me by my name.  Nefertiti or she smirked and glanced at Mistral "Queen Nefertiti.

Then she looked to Noah "So if you wish for your request, call me by my name.

Noah pointed to one "I did. G plus D, Girl and Dragon. Its a wine company that produces our wine, a bit sappy and romantic but eh. The other is a boat with the word ARK. It's my first time here. I've signed more than one tower of magic in the supernal realm, you don't think I am gonna sign the tower of America itself?" On a third brick he started etching the N of his name.

He smiled, "Don't gaslight any more Nefertiti."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:19, Sat 27 Aug 2022.

Michael sighed. “Maybe I have, Nef. I had to participate in the assisted suicide of my former associate members because they suffered a fate worse than death all because somebody came after Milo. So much unnecessary death and destruction. Now Milo has been targeted again. I just want to prevent another massacre. If I have to harden my heart for the greater good then so be it. I don’t have aspirations of power, status, or followers. Just to protect this world and the innocents that live here. This is bigger than you and me Nef. Bigger than all of us. Communication is the key to success. It destroys assumptions, fears, and misunderstandings. If you wish to have someone to talk to, I will listen. I think present company has altered how we all would act as old wounds and perceptions have distorted what is and could be. I need to be alone with my thoughts for a time as I reflect upon my place in current events. The waters have been muddied. You all know how to contact me.”With that, the priest turned and walked away. With a quiet prayer, a veil shielded his presence from mortal eyes making him all but a passing glance to the mortals around him as he left the protection of Mistral’s power.

OOC: Spend 1 WP for Shepard’s Blessing. Similar effect to what Mistral always has going. Mortals acknowledge his presence but pay him no mind or remember him even when armed to the teeth.

Noah pulled out one of his containment tubes. "Michael, take this with you. You know what it is, how it is, why it is. And I suspect that this is better in your hands than mine."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:43, Sat 27 Aug 2022.

Mistral turned her placid and blindfolded face toward the portal to regard Milo shifting slightly within Noplace.  She gave a single nod toward him.

The porcelain-pale archmage listened to the exchange between Noah, Nefertiti and Michael in placid stillness.  She did not move until near the end of Nefertiti's tirade, when she shook her head slowly.  After Michael said his final piece she inclined her head to him in a gesture of respectful farewell, then raised a hand to open a narrow corridor in the spatial labyrinth surrounding them to allow his departure.  Mistral turned toward Hank and said, "My apologies, Monsieur Hank, that you were mixed up in this.  If you wish to depart, simply name your destination and I bid you adieu with no ill will."  Should Hank indicate his wish to depart and communicate a destination, Mistral would incline her head toward him in farewell then deliver him there in a swirl of supernal mist.


Turning slowly back toward Nefertiti, Mistral spoke.  "Allow me to offer a word of advice, Reine de rien.  Before you presume to issue commands, make certain that you are the one in control."  Towering tendrils of blue light shimmered into visibility in a wide ring surrounding the meeting place, swaying gently and subtly refracting the views out over Liberty Island.

"This farce is over.  I leave you now with one simple choice, Nefertiti.  Turn around now and I will allow you to walk away.  Return in safety to your queendom of empty ruins and witless sycophants."  Mistral paused for dramatic effect, then enunciated, "Or, spew further abuse and powerless demands, and I will cast you into the sun.  The choice is yours."  She cocked her head and then warned, "You know it is well within my power to do what I say.  You have trifled with me too many times, but no more."

The shimmering blue threads marking the boundary of the meeting place in Flagpole Plaza parted behind Nefertiti, leaving open a path by which she could depart in safety.  The Mistress of the Ebon Tower concluded with icy finality, "Casse-toi, Reine de rien, and hope that we never meet again."

OOC: Edited the last section after discussion with ST about relevant factors Mist would have been aware of at the time.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:46, Sun 28 Aug 2022.

Michael catches the tube and raises an eyebrow at the contents. He gives a knowing nod to Noah and to Mistral as the portal is opened. “Central Park.”The portal opens to his destination where he walks through to before the portal closes.

OOC: Exit stage left

Noah looked up and sniffed the air, his eyes following things only he could see.  Noah looked at Nef as his eyes switched over to his blue Draconic glow. "Either she or her chosen master has used the StarLight spirit... She has been turned into the spark of ember."

"You've fallen, divinity is no longer within your reach. Just smoke and mirrors now." He bowed his head to Mistral, "I think we should leave. Sorry to have roused anger by not looking first."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:09, Sat 27 Aug 2022.

Nodding his head in thanks towards Mistral, Hrafen dipped slightly at the waist, an old Nordic bow of respect to both those before him, and Nefertiti.

Turning away, he heard Michael speak, and he spoke, out of sheer instinct. His nerves were on such high alert it was actual instinct that caused him to say the same thing on accident,

"Central Park. Damn!" he cursed, realizing his misstep, just as he stepped through a portal thanks to Mistral and vanished off into the distance. He'd never been the most talented with his words, but this mistake was just embarrassing.

OOC: Exit same stage left!
This message was last edited by the player at 02:26, Sun 28 Aug 2022.

The woman standing in the back of the group of the archmage's side, Fate, had stayed quiet the entire time they were there with Nef and she continued to stay quiet once she heard how Nef was treating everyone. At the end of it Fate just sighed at Nef, then turned to Hank before he left and said, "Nice meeting you, sorry it wasn't under better conditions." With that Fate turned and left the portal deciding to go with Michael. “Central Park.”

Sal spoke up, "Nefertiti! Must we be enemies!? You don't trust us, clearly, and we don't trust you, but that's no insult when dealing with Kindred, its just good sense! But once again, you treat us all as your inferiors, as if you are too good to give us your time or respect. We have walked back from the land of the dead-- some of us more than once-- we slew a fey lord in his own realm, where his power is that of a god, and we plan to do it again! We have seen the source of all magic, and been made stronger by it. I've lost count of the number of times we've face threats that could destroy worlds, and came out victorious! If we want a god's attention, we will get it. We're only here to give you a chance, because of the bond we've shared with you as part of our coven, to show us you aren't siding with the bastard responsible for killing Talion's children, torturing countless synths, and doing who-knows-what to Milo, among countless other crimes against us and those we care about. We are going to take him down, and if being a part of our cabal ever meant anything more to you than having some tools to use and discard as you see fit, you won't be standing next to him when we do. So I ask you again: Must we be enemies?"

[Private to GM: If Nef does anything other than apologize and say she doesn't want to be our enemy, Sal will use Mesmerize to suggest to Nefertiti: "You should grovel at our feet, beg for our forgiveness, and every day for the rest of your existence, the first thing you should do you, before you even open your eyes, is say a silent prayer to thank us for our mercy and generosity in allowing you to live for one more day."

23:37, Today: Secret Roll: Sal rolled 3 successes using 12d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 6,1,3,2,8,6,10(+3),7,9,7,4,1.  Intelligence + Expression + Dominate + WP. Cancel that. I think that close enough to an apology, coming from Nef.]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:00, Wed 31 Aug 2022.

Nefertiti only smirked when Mistral preformed her display of power, and it also only showed that she couldn't fully trust them cause they had already placed some thing in effect to trap or harm her if they didn't like what was being said.

She stood there and Noah threaten her, she stood there and Mistral threaten her.

About to leave this foul meeting on her own thought she heard Sal speak "We are not enemies.

I came here to make sure that my adopted Sire was safe. IF we were, would I allow you to have his body and not warn you of removing the stake may be dangerous. she said softly as she looked at Sal "I find it insulting that I must explain to those here of my actions.  When I have just recently been transformed into this her hands move over her body.  "I know not of all the ways and Milo was helping me understand them.  Reginald was also enlightening me on other Sects that are available for my choice. she tilts her head "Am I not allowed to learn all that I can about this Kindred lifestyle?  Seeking knowledge in all forms is not a crime.

Her eyes gazed at two "There are those here that have threaten me, one would seem that they have already place me as an enemy in their eyes.  Their minor threats is not what makes a bond stronger but only weakens that which makes me part of that coven.

She thought for a moment "Who is to say that Reginald is responsible for the death of Talion's children.

Was that not a hastily attack upon Carmilla for wanting my Divinity?

I stand for the innocent and those that wish no harm upon others. That is what Michael stand for as do I.

Mistral was uninterested in Nefertiti's self-serving justifications for poor behavior, but at least she had leashed the vitriol that had caused this meeting to boil over.  The blindfolded archmage stated simply, "We have enemies that show greater courtesy than you show those you would call allies.  I have said my piece and remain here in support of Sal, but hereafter I am finished with such poisonous company."

Mistral turned to Sal to observe any further discussion he may wish to conduct.  The exit corridor behind Nefertiti through the glowing blue threads remained open, as did Mistral's prior warning.

Noah shook his head, "You've devoured the soul of an innocent being begging you not to after their owners had tortured them. An innocent spirit is now also dead at the hands of your Master... I hope you turn around some day. He had many more words but he knew she would gaslight and craft a fantasy. He was done.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:26, Wed 31 Aug 2022.

Sal looked Nefertiti in the eyes, and spoke softly, his voice weary, as if every one of his 200+ years of activity was weighing it down, "I'm not asking you to explain your actions, Nefertiti. I had hoped you would be willing to tell me something, anything you've learned of Reginald's plans, or anything that might help Milo. I also wanted to be sure your will hadn't been compromised. In case Milo didn't have the time to tell you: if you drink the Vitae of the same kindred three times, it gives them a certain level of control over you, similar to falling in love with them. Thus, outside of life or death situations, few kindred will offer Vitae to another unless they wish to control them. There are other ways a kindred can take control of someone, as well. Reginald could put an entirely different being's mind in your body, but I'm not sure if it would be able to use the powers in your soul. He may even be able to simply dominate your mind. Learn what you can from him, Nefertiti. I can't fault you for that, but just be wary of him. The cult working for him has sacrificed and tortured both innocent synths and humans, including children, and summoned abyssal creatures whose very presence on earth damage the world around them. It was that very cult, that we rescued Talion's children from in the first place."

Nefertiti looked to Sal completely ignoring the other two speaking.

"I don't know of his plans fully, just that he wish to spread fear within the Elders with Milo being taking out of the picture.  There is a lot that I know he is doing without telling me.  He kept the body away from me for some time before I could watch over it. she said.  "He showed me how he can transfer soul or mind to another body and that is what I thought he did to Milo's body.  So I didn't want to risk him having a spy in there. she gazed at the body of Milo, if still visible "I feel for him and whatever she said. gazed at Mistral I don't believe until I have more proof that its truly Milo in there.

She thought for a moment "I heard that you met his teacher.  Is there anyway that I can speak with him? she asked.

Then when Sal spoke of drinking the Vitae of the same kindred.  Her eyes sparkled for a brief moment as her mind raced to think how many times did she drink his blood.

"I'm well aware of the powers that Majesty grants for I have them. she smiled. "I haven't learned much of Domination, yet.

Then she nodded her head at the fact that he agreed for her to learn as much as she could. "I wary of anyone who would give such gifts freely.  There will always be a price to pay or a threat given when someone gives you a gift and demand it to be returned. the last part had her eyes gazing at Noah.

The portal looking into the blank void of Noplace remained open, with Milo remaining staked within in absolute stillness.

Mistral's otherworldly form stood still as a statue and it was difficult to tell if she was paying attention, between the neutral expression and the blindfold.  Sensing that this question was directed at her, she answered briefly, "It would be terribly ill-advised on your part, but oui.  I have means to contact Milo's lord sire."  She did not offer them, however.


Mistral warned in an even tone, "Attention à tes mots.  My prior terms stand."

Sal said, "Nefertiti, just keep in mind, as I know you take offense to being treated with mistrust, that if you spend time around someone who can move a new mind into your body, it is only prudent that I treat you as if you have already been compromised until I'm sure you aren't. Keep this in mind if you decide to contact me again. With that said... Mistral, I believe Nefertiti should be present when we remove the stake from Milo. With his memories altered, their connection could be important."

Mistral replied, "Milo has asked that the stake remain until it can be assured he will be no danger to others.  He is safely en quarantaine within Noplace, but all due diligence must be done to understand his condition before the stake can be removed."

Noah nodded once, "I will phone a friend once we are in the clear. Its going to be a fair bit of work but they should be able to cover all bases with a bit of help."

Sal nodded at Mistral in understanding, and said, "Once he is awake, I will attempt to help him recover his true memories, though I may need to spend some time strengthening the Discipline, first."

Not even looking but she spoke the language so fluently "Mes paroles sont comme elles sont. Je pensais que tu avais fini" then she smiled.  Keeping her eyes only to Sal as they were the only ones there.

"Understandable Sal, but I can reassure you that I am all myself. she then looked at the portals before here.

"Will there be anything else we need to discuss, Sal? turning to the portal that Michael took.  She has some unfinished business with Michael.

OOC: Posting to close the scene for Mist and Noah, but Mist waits upon any final discussions between Sal and Nef before departing.  Feel free to continue posting, and the following will occur after.

Once Sal and Nefertiti had said what they wished to say to one another, Mistral drew shut the portal to Milo in noplace.  The stoic archmage said no more before conjuring a swirl of supernal mist to gather about herself, Noah, and Sal to spirit them away to elsewhere.  Over the next several moments the cordon of blue-glowing tendrils faded, breaking whatever effect had shielded the meeting place from outside observation and interference.

Nefertiti was left alone in Flagpole Plaza in the shadow of the gleaming copper statue of Lady Liberty, gleaming in the night.

"There is an old Japanese proverb which translates to: It is better to be the enemy of a good person, than the friend of a bad one. Goodbye, Nefertiti. I hope we might all choose our friends wisely, because we rarely have the luxury of choosing our enemies." There was no judgement or anger in Sal's voice, just weariness.

OOC:Unless Nefertiti has more to add, Sal will wait for her to leave, then join Noah and Mistral back at the Obsidian Pyramid.

Nefertiti didn't say anything else but watched as they left her there.  She smiled and wondered if what Sal said really meant anything cause there seemed to be some interesting twist in the Japanese proverb or Sal last comment was twisted.

Most people do have the luxury of choosing who they have twisted a dagger in the back.  So far it seemed that Noah and Mistral have chosen but didn't place the dagger deeply.