Sal entered the portal to his new Haven and took three steps before realizing that the Prince was waiting for him to bring Nefertiti for an audience. He had an hour or two before dusk and perhaps another hour before the Prince arrived at the meeting point... so he wasn't entirely in a rush, but it just meant he had a bit less time than anticipated to get everything else ready.

OOC: you can pop back in the main thread via portal if you like to physically retrieve Nefertiti :P

Busy as the day had been, Sal felt like he was forgetting something... "Nefertiti!" he said, and returned through the portal before closing it.

 With Nefertiti in tow, he was able to get in a car (likely bought new, up to Sal's taste) and hurried to the meeting spot. It was an upscale-looking bar, the kind where patrons don't actually drink anything. They pour $4000 wine into glasses, smell of it, taste it, then spit it into buckets.

 Of course, this is the Elysium for Ventrue and it makes a good cover for them. That whole ritual was invented by them, after all.

 The upper floor was VIP only and Sal (with Nefertiti in tow) was ushered in to a spacious room with a normally gorgeous view... though now it only put a point on just how badly the city had been damaged by the storm.

 Sal could see other Elysium buildings from here... all untouched, all places where Victor would have ordered the Kindred to take shelter.


 It took another 20 minutes before Victor arrived. He seemed alone but that was likely not the case. Obsfucated bodyguards were likely standing guard.

 This was Nefertiti's first time meeting Victor. He was an immaculately dressed and groomed man who's every movement was saturated with authority and propriety. He wordlessly entered, took off his coat, sat, folded the coat behind him, and leaned back in his chair. With a nod of his head and flourish of his hand, he gestured for Nefertiti to speak.

Nefertiti watched as the Prince entered into the room and her eyes were also looking into the shadows that were lurking behind him as if she was sure there was others but in hiding.

She was glad that she was able to talk Sal into allowing her to find a suitable attire for this meeting.

She curtsy to the Prince before even speaking and allowed him to take notice of her Etiquette within this presence. She was taught the finer ways of Royalty, for she was still a Princess in her eyes but to those around her she would be now a Queen.

"I am honored that you would grant me audience with you.  Prince Victor her eyes were still looking at his chest area not looking him directly into his eyes or face.

Then she slowly raised herself to a standing position.

 Victor's face remained passive and his posture relaxed. He eyed her over, but nothing untoward. "Sal informed me that you had something you wished to discuss with me."

"Yes Prince Victor. she replied

"If you would allow a humble vessel a moment with a Clan that resides in your Domain. she replied softly.

"Sal has informed me that without your blessing, I am not to speak of such thing again.  So I have come seeking your Blessing, Prince Victor.

 Victor paused for a moment, leaning forward and steepling his hands in front of his mouth. "And how exactly do you know about the clans in my Domain? Which one is it and what do you seek from them?"

She looked at him "The Clans are in every cities.  One must ask the Prince if they are accessible.

Slightly raising a finger to her lips "I am at fault Prince Victor, it is not the Clan I seek to speak with but a Covenant.  I wish to have your blessing in speaking with a member of The Circle of the Crone.

Sal remained unless dismissed by the Prince. If he remained, he took a position between them, but slightly closer to the Prince, and stood silently in a classic "bodyguard pose" unless addressed directly. Who he was guarding was up for interpretation...

 There was another measured pause. His eyes turned for roughly half a second to regard Sal and the posture he took before returning his gaze to Nefertiti. "And what, precisely, is your business with them? More importantly, what are you?

 You seem to have a very haphazard understanding of the Kindred but you are not Kindred yourself. I would know what I am dealing with and what you seek before I expose any Kindred in my care to an Unknown."

Sal remained silent, curious himself about how Nefertiti would answer the question.

"I would like to speak to them of the Mother and how they see her.  I am studying all that I can about others thoughts in the Goddess. she replied as she then noticed that Victor giving a glance at Sal.

"I am a humble servant of the Goddess Isis.  Once I was known as a Lector Priestess. she paused for a moment "I still believe myself to be just that even if they don't exist anymore.

"My studies is very minor Prince Victor and the Circle will help me understand more of myself and the old ways of my people.

Then she looked out a window and saw the destruction of the city but not all was
"I am here to help all in this time of need.  The Mother Earth needs to be healed.

 Victor remained silent for a few moments, running his thumb across his lip with his eyes locked on Nefertiti. "Very well. Assuming Sal has no objections, I will permit you to attend his party. It is quite likely a member of the Circle will attend and I can make the proper introductions there."

 He turned his gaze to Sal. "Just be aware that you will be responsible for her. Any disruption will reflect on you. Is this acceptable?"

Now it was Nefertiti's time to remain quiet and listen to Sal response.

Sal nods, and looks at Nefertiti as he says, "Anyone who harms a guest at my party harms me," as he continues he looks at Victor, so he can see that there is no deception in what he is about to say, and I trust that Nefertiti would not knowingly harm me. But I do ask for leniency if she commits a faux pas. She understands little of our society, after all. Should I brief her on the basics?

 Victor nodded. "It would be wise, yes. I will see that she is granted the same leniency as a fledgling Kindred. I can guarantee no more. If there is nothing more you require of me, I will consider our business here concluded and we will meet at your party."

"Nothing more. Thank you, my Prince. See you there," said Sal, with a slight bow.

Nefertiti waited till they exchanged salutations before she spoke, being the non Kindred one here.

"Thank you Prince Victor. then she bowed and waited for him to leave before she spoke to Sal.

 Victor nodded once and turned, leaving the two to speak privately with a few hours before guests begin to arrive.

Nefertiti looked at Sal with a smirk

"Well now, this is going to be interesting.  What all might you forewarn me of so that I don't cause you any harm. she said then looked at him for another moment.

"What is the appropriate attire for your party?

"Formal wear, of course! I've taken the liberty of acquiring some outfits you may try, to see what you like. Let's get back to the Amethyst Palace, first. We can discuss etiquette in the car, and as I make some last minute preparations." He went to the valet, tipped generously, and opened the passenger door for Nefertiti.

Following Sal she nodded her head in the thought of trying some outfits on.

"Of course, Sal. she said as she followed him to the car and moved to the door where he opened it and she got in.

There is going to be a lot for her to be briefed about etiquette in the Kindred society and she was glad that Prince Victor was allowing her to participate in the party.  It will allow her time to gaze over the Kindreds and hope that a member of the Circle will be able to speak with her.

Sal headed for the boat to the Amethyst Palace (unless it seems like it would be quicker to drive straight to the estate.) Either way, he began sharing with Nefertiti all the information he thought she would need to stay out of trouble, and none of the information that might get himself in trouble.

OOC: It's quicker to just drive to the Estate


 After a short drive in which Sal explained the workings of the Kindred to Nefertiti, they arrived at Sal's estate. Victor had already arrived, having left a few minutes before, and was waiting patiently in his car.

 Victor made no moves to enter as Sal arrived, granting him the courtesy of being the first to enter his own home and allowing him to make any last minute preparations that he needed.


OOC2: Last Call before the Kindred begin to arrive :P

Sal opens the front door, and says, "Please, come in, have a seat in the foyer. I need to make sure everything's ready. I've not had the opportunity to interview any staff yet. I'll be one moment." He then checks to make sure that the blood lite is arranged to his specifications, that any rooms he didn't want guests in were locked, and that the guest rooms had excessively heavy curtains in case anyone needed to stay for the day. Finally, he turned on the stereo to play a prearranged playlist of classical music from around the world: Chopin, Yatsuhashi, Gaga, and more.

 Victor got out of his car once invited and made his way into the foyer where he sat, patiently waiting for the party to begin. By the time Sal had finished preparations, more Kindred were arriving, many with ghouls or thralls. However, they were all dressed nicely (apparently the Prince had made clear that this was to be a "high end" party to keep the less savory Kindred from coming.

 That wasn't a bad thing. At least he wouldn't need to worry about cleaning as much blood off the floor tomorrow.

 That said, Kindred from every clan in the Camarilla were arriving and even a few Anarchs. Of all the people Sal had expected to come, only Milo was absent... but Sal was quite aware of why that was.

 For Nefertiti's part, she saw a multitude of people she did not know and had no real idea how to tell who was Kindred and who was not (other than who availed themselves of the refreshments at the bar).

Sal little to offer the non-kindred in way of refreshments. It was expected that his guests would have seen to the needs of their ghouls and thralls before the party, and he hadn't expected Nefertiti to be there. He wasn't sure what demigodesses ate, anyway.

He greeted each guest as he came across them, thanking them for coming, making small talk, ensuring they knew where the refreshments were, making any necessary introductions, etc. If Nefertiti pleased, he would keep her by his side, and introduce her to each of them as his "dear friend, Nefertiti," which was the truth, even if it might make their relationship sound closer than it was. She was his friend, and all his friends were dear to him. He would of course, make no conformations, nor denials of speculations about the true nature of the relationship, unless it was to confirm her claims about such. If that led to idle gossip,good.

Nefertiti was able to find a very tight fitting white dress that was made of fine silk and in some areas of her body it seemed that her breast was a bit bigger than the dress could hold and occasionally the ring around her nipple would make an appearance.

Standing at Sal's side with a sweet innocent smile and giving a slight bow of her head to each person she is introduced to.  At times she will take hold of Sal's arm to make things even more interesting with the rumors.

Her eyes looked all over as they walked away seeing how well she was able to determine more about their nature.

 As the guests began to wind down (and once there was no longer a line of people trying to get in), in arrived a woman with a striking figure, every bit as elegant and beautiful as Nefertiti with a presence as captivating as it was predatory. She wore a scarlet red sequin gown with a split at the hip and her hair up in a Chinese bun (Not that Nefertiti would necessarily know what a Chinese bun was).

 Her name was Carmilla, a Daeva embraced by her sire on a whim due to her name. That was long ago though. Now she was a prominent member of the Circle of the Crone.

 As she goes to retrieve some refreshment, Victor approaches her. They speak for a few moments before he leaves Carmilla at the bar once more. However, instead of approaching you, she begins making conversation with some other kindred at the bar.

Nefertiti moved a bit closer to Sal as she softly whispered into his ear.

"And have you ever had the pleasure of enjoying time with Carmilla? she asked as she gave a slight glance in the direction of the Prince.

"She seems to be a very beautiful Kindred. then a soft smile crossed her lips as she then looked at a few other Kindreds in the room.

Aura Perception
17:16, Today: Nefertiti rolled 4 successes using 8d10 with the World of Darkness nWoD system with a target of 8, rerolling 10s with rolls of 9,10(+7),2,5,2,9,4,8.  Aura Perception.

Sal whispered back, "We've been introduced. Beware, she has a lot of power and influence. Insulting her in any way would be a disastrous idea."

OOC: Waiting for any response about what Aura she might be able to get off Carmilla

"I will not cause any harm to you or to my cause, Sal. she smiled "She will be treated as if she was a special guest of my own.

She did wonder what was the flavor of the Vitae today, making her way over to the bar to see what was to be offered.

 The vitae to be served was artificial... which was like a plate of tofu and skim milk compared to steak and wine. It wasn't surprising. The entire city was suffering a blood shortage.

Nefertiti was a bit shocked to know that the Vitae was artificial even at an event so popular as this, but the way everyone was talking about Halloween.  Her nose did turn up a bit at the thought of drinking it.  After having the false scent quaff at her nose she gracefully placed the glass back at the bar and smiled to Carmilla.

"Delightful event this evening, wouldn't you say? she asked trying to get a sense of her demeanor

 Carmilla raised an eyebrow at Nefertiti as she turned. She was poised and elegant but something about her posture gave the impression of a serpent about to strike. She gave a coy smile and ran her finger around the rim of her wine glass. "Is it?"

 She sat the glass down, the kindred she had previously been speaking to fading into the background noise of the room as she turned slightly more toward Nefertiti. As the woman devoted more and more of her attention, Nefertiti found that the rest of the world seemed to fade away from her, leaving only the two of them alone in a crowd of people.


 As Sal watched, he saw the other Kindred move slightly away from Carmilla. They were watching intently.

Taking notice of her surroundings and how Carmilla has given them a moment to have a private talk.

"Of course it is Lady Carmilla. she was sure that was her name for she was also introduced to each other at the door when she entered and the host Sal was at her side.

"As you know Prince Victor was very generous in allowing me to come to this gracious event.  And if all would be as so.  she smiled "I may be blessed to be allowed one such as Powerful as yourself to be my mentor. bowing her head to Camilla for a moment in showing respect.

Sal pretended to have his attention elsewhere, while making a mental note to extract a very public comeuppance from Carmilla in the future, after Nefertiti has gotten a chance to get what she wants from her.

 Carmilla raised an eyebrow at Nefertiti. "Your mentor? I don't believe I've consented to any such thing. Dear Victor simply told me that there was someone who wished to speak with me, nothing more."

 She glanced down at the artificial blood in her wine glass, swirling it thoughtfully. "I'm not certain what you think to gain from being an apprentice. You're not Kindred, so much as I can tell. Much of what we deal in will be beyond you."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:10, Sat 20 Mar 2021.

Nefertiti looked at Carmilla and gave her a soft smile "I don't think he meant not to share such a delicate request.  Or he was interested in seeing your reaction of my request. glancing to see if Victor was watching them.

"To share and spread the teaching of the Crone. nodding her head "That is true, I'm not a Kindred but you may be surprise of what all I am capable of doing. taking a deep breath in "That is if you are even interested in unraveling such mysteries.

 Carmilla paused for a long moment, re-appraising Nefertiti with a look before motioning for her to follow. Victor was watching, but not all that closely.

 Once in a slightly less public place, Carmilla turned to her. "Now that we have a touch more privacy, I'm going to ask you plainly. How do you know of the Circle of the Crone? It's not knowledge that someone can just stumble across."

Following Carmilla to a more less public area but she gave Sal a glance as she continued onward to the location.

Hearing Carmilla's question brought a thought of something so long long long ago.
"It is something that I learned slightly about many many years ago.  A young Kindred by the name Alim back in Egypt before it was desecrated by foreigners. in her tone she didn't hide the fact that she hated the thought of what it has become.  The magazines and what she was able to read from the books in the past few weeks.

"He was going to show me more of the ways of the Circle of the Crone. she paused for a moment "I'm sure he is not around any longer.  looking at Carmilla "If he is still around could you possibly locate him and he can add favor to my good status.

 Carmilla put a finger to her lips. "You are not Kindred. Neither are you a member of the Circle of the Crone. I have no guaranteed that you wouldn't immediately use what you learn from us to outright break the Masquerade.

 That is assuming that you can use our disciplines at all."

Sal noticed Nefertiti's glance. The moment the two women were out of sight, he moved to where he could still hear them, but could not see or be seen by them. He didn't eavesdrop, so much as listen for any signs of distress from Nefertiti, while he made small talk with any guests nearby.

Nefertiti batted her eyes to Carmilla "Both are somewhat true.

I would never do anything to cause harm or destruction to dishonor myself or your Masquerade.  As you may see that I am very fond of Sal and the Prince must see that I can be trusted, if he allowed me to come to this event. she replied.

"As I said you may be surprise of what you would discover if we were to make some arrangements of Mentor.

Looking around slightly You do not need to accept the offer now. But I would hope that you would think on the matter.  I may be someone you find enchanting.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:50, Mon 22 Mar 2021.

 Carmilla raised an eyebrow and smiled. "Really? How interesting. And exactly what is it the Prince trusts you with? After all, this is the first time any of us have met you. Were you perhaps somehow involved with the storm that destroyed the city?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:00, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

Nefertiti looked at her as she asked such a question to her "No I am not the reason or involved in it.

Carmilla may of taken noticed that the question about the Prince wasn't replied to.

"I am part of a team that is helping the people of the Geb she seemed to have gain a bit of pride when speaking of such things.

"We have already destroyed a Demon that was causing harm to people and a Cult that was destroying the Synthetic People. looking Carmilla in the eyes "Talion has great trust in us and plans to help heal Geb.
she through his name into the conversation knowing that some may like him and some may despise him.

She did not move all that much as she read Nefertiti, "Mmmm, you make it sound as if you already have a group that you affiliate with and a mentor. After all, demon hunting is not something your average neonate participates in. It is something often hunters are made aware of, at our convenience."

"Tell me of this team of yours, do you trust them? Are they a risk to kindred and kine? How has this ...Talion prepared you to manage things such as demons?" She turned her gaze nearly imperceptibly toward Sal, a degree of a degree that one would only catch she was aware of him but she wasn't speaking to him. "Has he modified you in some way to bring you closer or further from our kind? Purity is important after all."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:15, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

Tilting her head slightly "He is not the type of mentor that I seek. giving a slight wicked smirk.

"I never claimed to be an average neonate, but a mystery for you to unravel. then a soft smile comes to her beautiful face.  "You may help me in learning more of the ways of the Crone.  Something Talion is not.

Taking noticed of her gazing at Sal "I trust them, Deeply.

She paused for a moment "A risk, would you think Sal is a risk to the Masquerade?

"He has not modified me in any way.  I am as I am. as she spoke there was a Prideful tone to her knowing now who she is and what she is to become.

Carmilla gave a look of nearly imperceptible disappointment that Sal did not so much as flinch before she turned her attention back on Nefertiti. "The past and future are the playgrounds of the circle. Everyone is a risk to the Masquerade, everyone will break it someday or has broken it. It is just a matter if that can be of use and corrected."

"The Circle and its secrets are all that interest me, anyone willing to split their attention will fail to advance. If you are so interested you will present three vials of your blood. One will be used to present the truth of your past, one will be to learn the truth of your future, and one will be used to identify if you become a member."

"If the Crone is kind you will be seen in her study. If not she will reveal at least something interesting." She looked away, "I have no doubt your fellows will try to stop such a divination. It is always an interesting form of love that holds us from our true potential."

Looking to Carmilla "What if the Crone has already accepted me into her fold? she wondered what response would follow such words.

"I am very old my dear and as I said.  I have some understand but not the full grasp of the Crone's Circle and followers. she looked down at her wrist and knew her blood was a sacred thing.

"Interesting comment, as you know I trust my fellows dearly and if they were to have doubts of me granting you some of my Vitae.  Then how do you plan on swaying my decision? watching her closely.

Carmilla smile and clapped in a girlish way that was a thin film hiding the Baba Yaga that surely remained hidden under her skin. Carmilla looked to one of the security that was surely present to prevent her from breaking the rules of decorum. "Tell Victor that if this one here is introduced to another member of the Circle, even indirectly, then I will take it as an attack on my person."

She turned her gaze back to Nefertiti, "The next time you speak to Victor's peer, a contender for that pretty crown on his brow, the response should be 'Yes Scarlet Mother'. You have three days to provide me the vials, then my charity will be closed. That is how your decision is swayed."

There was not denying the look upon Nefertiti's face when Carmilla tried to use the bully force upon her to get her way.

"It seems that the Circle will be without my aid. Now and forever. she bows her head to Carmilla.

"I will make sure to inform my employer Talion of your offer and minor threat.

I do hope the rest of your evening if filled with better company. with that the then turns to leave Carmilla there alone.

Walking away from Carmilla with a slight smile upon her face.  Then she looks for the host of the party, once she spots Sal she walks up to him.

"I think it is time for me to leave this event and rejoin the others.  I believe Talion wished for us all to be present.

 As Nefertiti spoke, another Kindred, one Sal recognized as working under the Sheriff. He was likely here as a form of security for the event considering how many influential Kindred were present.

 "Your presence is requested in the foyer. An uninvited guest has arrived and we cannot remove him."

Nefertiti was a bit curious as to whom was in the foyer that they couldn't remove. Taking hold of Sal's arm she followed him into the foyer

Sal nodded at the Sherrif's man, then at Nefertiti, and went to the foyer, along the way, he remotely increased the volume of the music in the foyer just a bit, (loud enough to ensure those in the adjacent room are less likely to notice anything going on in the foyer, and he drew his Spirit Katana, but did not ignite the blade, keeping it in his hand, in his pocket.

OOC: I would like to state, once again, Sal was not eavesdropping on Nefertiti and Carmilla's conversation, nor standing within line-of-sight. He stood only near enough to hear if one of them raises their voice. He would have digital security cameras on a closed circuit in every room in the house, however (no one monitoring them, at the moment, but they would be recorded and uploaded to a closed server in a secure room (not connected to the internet in any way.)

Within the foyer was a tall man in a suit, hair pale and entirely colorless but each strand of hair as fine as spider silk. His suit matched the color of his hair but was made of particles that both Nefertiti and Sal could detect, a scent that matched that of Ghosts but processed. In his hands, he held what looked like a folded and locked switchblade but many times larger. He held it over his head as if he was told to 'keep his hands where they could see them.' A man holding his weapon over his head for cops.

There were clear signs that a number of people, some with strength-enhancing powers, attempted to move him but couldn't manage it.

Stranger than that, the man looked artificial. A elf from the Fea wildlands would have called him strange and exotic. Eyes just barely too large, features to finely cut to be human. "ᚨᚺ, ᛁ'ᚡᛖ ᛒᛖᛖᚾ ᛚᛟᛟᚴᛁᚾᚷ ᚠᛟᚱ ᚤᛟᚢ ᚨᛚᛚ ᛞᚨᚤ." His language was faulty but a strange version of old Norse before he changed to broken English. "It is insanely hard to find one of you out of Necro's sight for even half an hour. Sorry to crash the party but getting to this side is fairly hard. The Veil was very thin today for some reason." He smiled "Just here to talk to you or the girl who called herself Mistral. And she is with Necros right now."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:58, Mon 29 Mar 2021.

Sal looked to the Kindred present, "Has this fellow threatened anyone?"

One of the security pulled out their smart phone to show a recording they made without twisting their phone to record in landscape mode. It showed the man still standing in the same spot with his hands up and three of the security trying to drag him out. "Boys, a fight between vampires and a god has never gone well for one side. I'm just here for Sal. I've got work to do so please go get him."

Sal suppressed a laugh. "Only a threat if he is, indeed, a god, in which case, who am I to say where he can and cannot go? What's your name, stranger?"

There was surely a spark of interest in Neferiti's eyes and a curl to her lips when the stranger mentioned himself as a God. Something herself has a touch of in her, and soon to be a True Goddess.

Then she will gladly make a visit to Carmilla and let her know of the Crones dissatisfaction.

Sariel gave a bow causing the security to ready weapons. "Sariel, once god of education and transformation of the realm Ardain. Friend and mentor to Necros, an ally of yours. Recently resurrected by the folly of that memory vore. If you would honor me with your time and consideration I have a task I would ask of you that comes with a unique payment. I know you owe me no such kindness, but I am hopeful."

"Perhaps even fulfilling tasks you have for me should you have any."

"Welcome Sariel. I wasn't expecting you." He looks at the bodyguards and says, "my friends, if Sariel wished any of my esteemed guests harm, don't you think he could have done so, by now? Come, Sariel, we can discuss your request in private. If you don't mind, Nefertiti will join us, should she desire." Sal leads the alleged god into the portal room, reveling in any hushed whispers such a thing brings.

The pale man nodded, "If she is fine by you she is fine by me." He gave Nefertiti a bow as if he had stepped out of a medieval book, so many finely dressed people Sal and his company must all be lords and ladies. "It is a very good pleasure to meet you Nefertiti."

"What is exactly going on here? The barrier between realms is as thin as water, everyone is dressed up as monsters out there and like royalty in here. I have never in my time seen so many pumpkins and so much sugar in one place." He spoke as he was lead by Sal. The moment he saw the main body of the party his eyes went wide and he smiled wide, clearly surprised by the number of vampires but also delighted in surprise. "Maxium and Rem would be turning three shades of red, how wonderful."

When they made it to the portal room he looked like he had to concentrate for a moment as the magic in the room was greatly harassed by his presence. "Ope, that's not gonna last." He walked up the portal as a matter of habit and from his hands, under his nails, thin fibers started to lace out. He started to outline the portal with them to make sure the threads he shed naturally wouldn't just close the portal forever. "Sorry."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:48, Mon 29 Mar 2021.

Nefertiti continued to hold onto Sal's arm as he lead them into a more secluded area to speak.

When Sariel spoke to her she replied "It is my pleasure to meet you as well Sariel.  I do hope that I will have time to talk to you as well about other matters. bowing her head slightly.

She listened to all he had to say and watched as his fingers spun a web of magic upon the portal.  Taking in all that she was capable of understanding

 As Sal took Sariel somewhere private, he could hear commotion coming from the main hall. There were intermittent, panicked screams followed by silence.

 One of the security met Sal in the room. "Sir, one of the elders has entered Rötschreck and has fled into one of your private rooms. Most of the neonates have suffered some form of panic attack followed by acute memory loss."

"Ill be happy to talk about whatever you like, though do keep in mind my nature is to give people a push and help them figure their own way. Lots of people got short with me when I wouldn't just tell them how to get to the end of their book." He nodded once, "I like seeing people reach a new personal best."

He blinked at the screams. "If I knew you had aura readers I would have prepared..."

There could of been a slight smirk upon her face when she heard Sariel's comment and hoped that the one suffering was none other than Carmilla.  She needed to feel the displeasure of the Crone.  And tonight Nefertiti was that Crone.

"Try and keep them calm. The sooner Sariel and I finish our conversation, the sooner everyone here can rest easier." When Sariel started to fray the portal, Sal quickly checked a security feed, looking for the safest path to bring Sariel to another empty room, with as few kindred on the way as possible, "Very well, a different room. I don't need my enchantment ruined, thank you." Sal locked the door behind him and led Sariel and Nefertiti through. Once there, he gestured at the most comfortable seats in the the room, and said, "Make yourselves comfortable. Now Sariel, I don't know the name Necros, but my employer mentioned your name in the aforementioned 'memory vore's' domain. What do you request of me?"

Sariel followed and sat as instructed so he wouldnt cause more trouble. "He has had a few names. But A Good Doctor was always my favorite." Sariel opened his jacket and reached into a hole stitched to the inside. From it he pulled a box he set on his lap and opened for Sals inspection.

The box was a highly detailed chess board. The tiles could flip to indicate a claim of territory, and there was a four space board that could pop up over the board to indicate airspace. The letters and numbers on the grid made no sense in the alien language.

Each game piece was carved to look like someone. A king named Endar, a bishop named Severius, a Queen named Celest. A knight named Rath. All cut to great detail. There was even a rook carved in the likeness of Sariel encased in a moon.

On the inside there was a runic text that Sariel translated, "To a son of Ardain so well loved."

"In our realm, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month there was a festival of the religion of change. It was called the festival of mutato. Everyone wore a simple mask and sold the fruit of their skill or taught their skill as a means to give the next generation a taste of the direction they should take their life."

"It was the first time Necros left his cottage in mother knows how long, and the first religious event any God had seen him go to."

"It was custom for a patron to give gifts. Many people got spell books, but Necros got a chess board. At the time I thought he gave up on planning ahead, of living life. The board was a invitation to come back to life."

"In that horror of a beast he said he lost the board when Ardain fell. This replacement is a thank you letter in the tradition. Because he clearly came back to life, and has many sons and daughters he looks after now."

"What I need from you is to give this to him on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, not two weeks from today I'm told. But I'm not entirely sure how often I can be on this side. I really have no other means to deliver this too him assuredly on the eleventh beyond planning ahead like this."

"For payment I can offer a bolt of glass silk and likely a good tip if you can suprise him with it. Though it's not required."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:58, Tue 30 Mar 2021.

Nefertiti listens as the guest spoke. She looked at the writing and to her surprise she was able to read it. Not something she has read before but it seemed to make her think there is more to herself than what she thinks.

As Sariel spoke of this one, her mind thought only of one person.  Talion

There was surely something about him and she can tell that he had the abilities of a God.  Seeing that he is the Creator of the Synthetic People, he could be also considered the name Good Doctor.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:20, Tue 30 Mar 2021.

Sal wonders if Sariel can be trusted. So many powerful entities have wished Talion harm, and lives were lost every single time. "I don't like the idea of surprising Necros, as you call him. If you don't mind, I will keep the gift here, until he confirms that you can be trusted. I mean this as no disrespect, but the way I look at it, if you mean him no harm, there will be no problem. And if you do mean him harm, there's no way I'm getting out of this unscathed, but I know better than to try and deceive a god." Once again, in way over my head! Sal thought.

"A good dose of caution never hurt anyone. I understand and respect any way or plan you have about it, just that it's done on the day that would be the festival of mutato. He would know beyond a doubt that it comes from me that way."

"Now, as I have effectively exposed the spiritual underwear of the local, elders was it? Is there anything I can do for you? After all, if you didn't go with him to the memory vore I wouldn't have likely been able to get out as I did."

Sal thought for a moment, "You said you were a god of transformation, correct? Can you transubstantiate the synthetic vitae I'm serving my guests into fresh blood? Or at least give it all the properties of such?"

"Transmutation of liquid to liquid is very easy. But have your men bring in water jugs instead. I'll turn the water to blood so you have both. If you want it to taste right I'll need a drop of native blood. Otherwise it will taste funny, or I assume so as it will default to Ardainian blood."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:16, Wed 31 Mar 2021.

A smile crossed her face as she listened to the request for the need of blood.  It seemed strange that twice this night it may become a request for her blood.

Turning her attention to Sariel "With this drop of blood would it be as True as the blood was coming from the donor?

"To me blood is blood. If I used troll blood it would be troll blood, but I know it wouldnt count as part of the orignal creature for things like a scry spell."

"If you dont care about flavor then normal human blood from my realm is as easy as pouring it. I just dont want to start a war by not having my pinky finger out sipping tea. Would you rather taste test first?"

Sal raises an eyebrow, "Nefertiti, I believe you are the most human person here. I don't know what unusual properties your blood might possess. If I could taste a drop, please. I can't risk everyone under my protection going berserk or exploding, or something. Oh... and if I explode, please send my remains to Noah, and ask if he can take them somewhere with a lot of mana or spirit activity."

Sariel shook his head no, "I do not encourage drinking her blood directly. I can replicate her blood and tone it down a notch but there is a storm in her blood. It would hit like a drink called Troll killer. The most stout warriors would drink it, a spirit made from mushrooms."

"You, Sal, are a psychopomp so you could drink her blood just fine. But the security guards out there would be in drinking lamp oil." He leaned in and looked at her closely before pulling a glass out of that hole in his jacket. "Only needed a drop of blood if I didn't have the person here. As you're right here."

He put his hand over the glass and it filled from the bottom up. "It will hit like pure grain liquor."

Sal says, "My thanks, Sariel," before he takes a sip.

 It's been a very long time since Sal had consumed real liquor... the last time being back when he was still alive. The mouthful of blood tasted like blood but it burned aaaaallll the way down and he began to feel just a little light-headed from just the sip.

 Sariel wasn't kidding about this transmuted blood hitting like grain alcohol.

Sal shuddered, smiled, and said, "Wonderful! And it will have the same effect on the other Kindred?"

Her eyebrow arched when Sariel mentioned that her blood had a Storm in it.  What ever did her mean by it was nagging at her for she knew that she only awaken when the Storm hit the city, the world.  Was she the cause of the Storm.  shaking her head "No".  She couldn't of been the reasoning.

"Interesting you would say that Sariel.  It has something to do with what I wish to speak to you about.  When you have a moment and done with helping Sal.

"ᚨ ᛏᛟᚨᛋᛏ ᛏᛟ ᚷᛟᛟᛞ ᚺᛖᚨᛚᛏᚺ" Sariel said when Sal drank the blood. It was a toast.

"Well, what would a bunch of kindreds do smashed drunk? A drink or two would be fine but some people are violent drunks, others are lover drunks, some become politicians."

"The blood will have the same effect on them as it did you, I can do two hundred and twenty-five Kings Drams of fluid over the span of five breaths or so."

he nodded to Nefertiti.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:14, Thu 01 Apr 2021.

"That would be appreciated, thank you. I'll have to have the Sherrif's men watch that no one imbibes to much, or leaves too inebriated. We can leave it up to Nefertiti if she wishes to reveal that the blood is based on hers. " Sal wasn't sure what a 'kings dram' was, but appreciated any amount.

"Very well, do you want to show me to the food preparation area or bring it in here?" He then addressed Nefertiti "So what is on your mind? Never hurts to multitask."

"If you suppress your aura, in case anyone tries to read it again, taking you there would be easiest," Sal said.

Sariel reached into a pocket and pulled out a small chip of brass. He twisted his wrist and flicked it into the air above him as a powder with a word that wobbled in the air. He drew no external power, used no mana, and hardly even focused on the spell. "That should last for about an hour. If they look this time they will see nothing at all. Cant really do anything else until I get a chance to closely inspect an aura here."

"This way, then, if you please," said Sal, and led Sariel and Nefertiti into the kitchen.

Sariel was more than just aura cloaked, there was an illusion over him that kept neutral expressions and movements. When in the kitchen he started pulling out the same contains that would be used for punch in more normal gatherings. Filling it with water he started looking around. "With just a little effort I can make a lot... do you have Barrels or anything? This bowl is barely a hiccup of effort."

OOC: you do, the mansion has an old wine cellar, assuming you want to bring barrels up.

In reply to Sariel (msg # 85):

Whilst till in the private room she spoke "You are a God and I am trying to understand my place within the Divine structure.  she paused then looked at Sal for a moment then back to Sariel "I recently discovered that I am a Demi-Goddess.  Not fully a True full Goddess. taking in a deep breath "If or When I become a Goddess what is expected of me and how would I claim a station.  Like yours is Education and Transformation.

"Well, I am not from this realm but most of my powers still work. To my experience, there are two types of divine powers. Little G gods like me that are born that way or that earn their way into it and the other is what we called an Arbiter. One is a divine power and the other is a core aspect of reality with a will behind it."

"I was born like this and then later burned my way into becoming the heart of a celestial feature. Doing that let me fuse my soul and thoughts which is why thoughts are physical things for me."

"In your case, just looking at you, I don't see a seal of mortality but you look like a vessel drained dry. You appear to me like a lamp run dry. You need fuel to ignite your divine fire, a wick for it to cling to, and the glass to color your flame as you need it."

"For Fuel as I know it, positive energy or the faith of mortals feed the fire."

"The wick is a seal in your mind, stamped on your very thoughts, that focuses your fuel to fill your body."

"The glass is a well-formed faith but the color of the glass is your actions. The more you partake in extreme actions the more our realm saw you as that. People saw me teaching and transforming into fantastic things when a critical mass of people knew me that way I gained the domains of knowledge and transformation."

"Now things may differ a little here, but the truth becomes legend, legends become a myth, myth becomes god."

Nodding her head "It seems that Faith is needed here as well.  I have started my follower and soon shall have more to help fuel my Fire.  Then I will need to make sure I have the right Wick to focus my mind and stamp it. she smiled.

As for the glass.  I believe that too has began to form but I will need to make sure it is curbed to way I want it.

Thanks you Sariel.  That is helpful information.

Then she followed him and Sal to watch as she turned more water in to Blood for those of the party.

"There was another god in my realm named Odin. A big Tree of a man. He cultivated a fruit, a golden apple. That would go leaps and bounds to satisfy the fuel requirement if you can get your hands on the stuff."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:58, Fri 02 Apr 2021.

Nodding her head with a wicked smile as she thought about a WISH owed to her.

"Now what would happen if I did get my hands on a Golden Apple?

"Little G gods need faith like a plant needs water. You have to feed the plant faith to get it to grow but after a week it would provide you apples rapidly. It would feed that faith requirement of your diet entirely. Odin's people had been gods but did not require any worship at all and never showed signs of starvation."

"Your only other option so far as I know is find something else and change your body to feed on that. Personally, I feed on thought energy, which is why I like people being happy, healthy, and content. As their thoughts drift off them into the world it makes the whole planet a better place and I take them up like a tree with sunshine." As barrels are brought up, assuming they are, he filled them with water and pulled from his pocket a small iron cup that he filled with water that turned crimson. He poured a measure into every container converting the contents into the same charged blood. It was a wars worth of blood.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:14, Fri 02 Apr 2021.

Nefertiti was glad that Sariel was able to help her gain some insight on what she needs to do and understand the types of Gods.

"I believe I have a Wish that would grant me access to an Golden Apple.  Your friend Necros is such a generous Godly man. she smiled

Sariel got a little wide-eyed, "Don't let him hear you call him god, godly, or even divine. The reason I first met him was when he killed an angel who carried the offer to become the god of death. Unless he has changed greatly he has only ever been a man. Powerful to the point of absurdity, but a mortal who found a way to cheat death."

"Very few gods ever showed him any kindness. Just hate or fear. More than one of our kind exploited his one weakness to bring him to ruin. He is a good man, but he can be cold. But if anything I would think he is the icon of suffering. And suffering survived is the source of real power."

She smiled "I would never call him that in person.  I had my thoughts that he was a God when I smelt his blood.

It was very different and potent.  Something only a God would have.

When mentioning about other gods she wondered why Talion had a dislike for Isis and her husband.  A good story to be discovered surely.

Sal indeed brought several barrels. When the subject of Golden Apples came up, he said, "Whatever you do, don't pick any from any gardens in the realm of the dead. Its not worth it!" On the subject of gods, "Are powerful fair folk gods? Do they gain power from faith? They certainly don't take well to  disbelief."

"If you've seen a garden I'd love your consent to copy that memory. Seeing what gods are here may prove useful. We all honor the laws of hospitality and neutrality so it would be rude for me to not go and say hello."

"After I devoured the memory vore I did interact with the Fay folk there. They strike me as strong spirits who deal in contracts. They are not divine and would get nothing but a well fed pride from worship."

"Though debt and contract can seem insanely powerful. Our old saying was 'always say Nay to Fey'. If you like I could get back to you once I learn more about them."

Sal looked worried. "We're outside of Balder's domain, I don't believe you're violating any hospitality. I'm... not comfortable letting anyone else root around in my head. Especially not after meeting the 'Memory Vore.'"

Sariel inclined his head. "I am sorry, many vampires on Ardain can do that. To be honest take all the various vampires in there and they would make a standard vampire. You two are unique."

"Please forgive my assumptions."

Looking to Sariel "What do you mean by Unique? if you don't mind sharing your thoughts she smiled as they talked about wanting to get memories.

She was not aware of what they were talking about when mentioning "Memory Vore" so she remained quiet but listened to what she could to grasp some knowledge of him.

"It's a sense of potential, like watching a spring bound tightly you can see the potential energy in it. Most of the people in that room are as bland and as flat as they are going to get. You two and one other in there are like a stroke of thunder in a bottle. You're just stuck until the cork is pulled."

Her eyebrow arched "One other, could you show us which other discreetly? she had to understand who was the other and if they knew something about the way the world looks now.

He shook his head, "Not in good time. Right now it's a scent on the wind. I'd have to interact with everyone here to figure out who."

"If you would like to introduce me to someone I can check."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:28, Sat 03 Apr 2021.

She didn't wish to take too much of his time when there was other things to deal with and she wasn't allowed to be introduced to any other mamebers of the Circle, be it intentionally or not.  It seemed that Carmilla wished to pull rank here at the event but still she will find a way to make her kneel.

Nefertiti wasn't fully aware of all the laws of the Kindred and she will surely have to have time to sit down and chat with Sal about them, that is if she continues to mingle with the Kindreds.

Sal holds up the cup he had used to taste the blood, "After they try this, I'm sure plenty of them will want to meet you, Sariel," says Sal with a grin.

"Well, if you want to be an envoy for the vampires I would much rather deal with you than the whole of them. Take whatever payment or favors you want to gain an audience and call on me with a little prayer. I'll be a little all over the place until I can contact your current pantheon so contact will be welcomed. Your local realm has many more spheres than mine."

Sal was amused at the thought of saying a prayer, and getting an answer, something he hadn't considered possible for a few centuries. He said, "An envoy to a god, huh? Around here. we call that a priest. Then again, you haven't asked for worship. I like that about you, Sariel."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:12, Mon 05 Apr 2021.

"I've done little worthy of worship. Power is not a marker for worship, love is. For a god to love their people they treat them as brothers, not followers. So a god who asks for worship hasn't seen mortals surpass gods as I have."

"You'll get there in time. Then things like me will seem par for the course if a little odd."

"Anything else on your list or shall I vanish leaving not a memory behind for weak minds?"

"Oh, and angel." He turned to look at trinity."If you need an anchor or lessons on how to be what you are. My door is always open."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:08, Tue 06 Apr 2021.

 Trinity had been following Sal this whole time. He was easy to lose track of since he seldom did anything but observe and, for the most part, obscured himself from supernatural senses. Only now that he was addressed directly, did he speak. "I thank you for your generous offer but I believe I will decline. There is an Otherness about you that makes me uneasy."

"Well yea, I'd be extremely suspect if I was simple and straight forward. But two kinds of strange and divine wrapped into one? That's how you become immortal."

"The offer is there, but it may be better for you to find your own way. I'm open to learning in this new world."

"Goddess, when you get your apple send word my way. I'll show you how to plant and cultivate it. Once it gets going you'll be able to move on to step two."

He looked to Sal he honored the old laws of hospitality and that required dismissal.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:07, Tue 06 Apr 2021.

Nefertiti gave Sariel a smile when he called her Goddess, so she may succeed in her mission to become what she truly was meant to be.  If he is the God of Knowledge, then he could see into more of what is to be.

"I will do so Sariel. she thought for a moment "How would I be able to send word to you?

"The means to contact me is done by opening a book. Read any passage, and address me. Or if you transform by any means and address me. If it is for a conversation just use my name. If you are trying to make a formal request that requires I bring power address as 'Sariel, Son of the Lady of Arcane and Son of the Lord of the open road.'"

"If you call me by my full name it gives me permission to help more, all gods must honor the laws of domain, so consent and permission are key to unchained power."

"Sorry for all the rules."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:41, Tue 06 Apr 2021.

Shaking her head "No such thing, your information of the Laws is needed and it will allow me to fully understand my station once I gain it.

She smiled and then looked to him one more time to wonder if she was able to peer into his aura.

Her eyebrow arched at the mentioning of his mother. "Is Lady of Arcane ever possible to meet?

His aura was entirely missing at the moment. Whatever he had done had concealed it so well that aura sights or even detection magic just overlooked him. "Noted."

He took in a long breath. "I've no idea if mother made it out. The war had ended and I was self-sealed up in the moon to clog the hole left in the sky to the realm without order. I know I died and had beaten death, but due to the nature of my brand of immortality, as I slept I was entirely unaware. I had a counterpart still doing things but they knew nothing of gods."

"I hope she got with dad, who could travel realms at will. But I can't assume given the enemy. If I summon them here and they did fall to the foe, well that would be all kinds of a mess. Best I just keep my ears open for her ruby song."

"If you are interested in meeting her she was the Ruby Sorceress, the Taciturn Queen, and the Arcane Lady. If you hear anything about her titles you may be on to something. The core of her control is Magic and Death along with a few other minor mantles. And by Death I don't mean undeath. Undead did follow her but she was the guardian of death, the one who kept the cycle in order. Undead had a place, but mercy have them if they stepped out of it."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:08, Tue 06 Apr 2021.

Not surprised of seeing nothing, since she knew he pulled out something to conceal his aura from those Kindreds that might take a foolish look.  She only gave him a smile and listened to the what he had to say about the Arcane Lady, his mother.

She had control over something she wanted "Magic", something that she once had in her mortal life and it was a boon to behold.  With her death she seemed to have lost her connection to it and needs to find her soul or another way around having control over Magic.

"I will do some studying when I return back or get to visit that University I was told about.

Thank you Sariel. then she looked to Sal seeing if he had anything else to ask or speak of before Sariel departed.

"Thank you for your visit, Sariel. You've been a gracious guest, and I hope I've been a good host. Farewell, for now, I have to get back to my other guests. I would invite you to stay, but I still have to smooth over your appearance with certain guests." Sal said. He wasn't used to wishing farewell to visitors who didn't need to use the door, but would have felt weird walking Sariel to the foyer to do so.

And just like that he was missing entirely. The memory of him was slippery but he did bow and vanished in a twist of white silk threads. It wasnt that he was stealing memory, it was that memory of him was like holding onto an eel, you had to grip tightly.

Sal made a concentrated effort to hold on to the memory as he noted the important bits on his slate. He then took the "wine" barrels into the main hall, to share with his guests. "Esteemed guests! If I may have your attention, a visitor has brought us a tremendous gift! Vitae the likes of which I'm sure you've never tasted. As I've yet to find good household staff..."  he paused for laughter, "I'd appreciate if some of you volunteer a ghoul or two to help pass this around and keep an eye out that no one goes overboard, because trust me, this stuff can pack a punch!" He began ladling vitae from the barrels into crystal wine glasses, and waited to see if there were any volunteers.

Nefertiti knew she had just spoken to someone and she knew somehow she was able to obtain some of his information for she may need to call upon him when she gathers the right Apple or Information on the Arcane Lady.

When Sal moved out of the room she followed behind him and listened to all that he said and to see who all came to sample the Vitae.  She even gave a glance to see what Carmilla was going to do.

 It took a moment after the startlement of Sal's mysterious visitor for any Kindred to come forward... but curiosity got the better of them and, one by one, the younger Kindred began to take glasses of vitae.

 After taking a sip and nearly choking on its potency, each one downed their glass as if they'd not had a real drink in weeks (which many likely hadn't). "You're not joking about the punch. It's like drinking whiskey, but better!"

 After which, ghouls were brought forward to distribute glasses to all the other Kindred. After taking a drink, another Elder, who's name escaped you at the moment, approached you. "Saving the best for last, huh? You definitely know how to host a party, strange guests not withstanding."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:45, Thu 08 Apr 2021.

Sal bowed his head in respect, "High praise, sir. One of the benefits of my position with the mages, is easy travel, and interaction with a startling variety of unusual beings... and occasionally, rather than try to kill me, they make fantastic business offers! Remind me to tell you sometime about my shopping trip in Paris with the cross-possesing ghost mage."

 Carmilla, for her part, did not seem particularly eager to receive a glass, but took it when it was offered. However, rather than expressing enjoyment, made something akin to a sour face as she consumed the crimson fluid.

 … but she still consumed it.


 The Elder that was speaking to Sal... he could almost remember his name and it was likely going to bug him for the next few days... laughed. "That does sound like quite the story! Still, be careful around mages. They'll eventually make you begin to question your sanity."

Sal laughed bitterly, "Daily. I imagine if more of us questioned our own sanity, we'd have fewer tragedies like Raymond's. Pardon me, I think someone needs an escort to the washroom." He waits for the elder to excuse him.

 The elder nodded and returned to talking to others at the party, giving Sal leave to do as he needed.

OOC: Unless Victor has any announcements to make, I'm ready to move on from here.

In reply to Sal (msg # 129):

was there anything further you wanted to do?

 There was no easy way to calm down a frenzied elder save for time and the party had already ended by the time he had returned to his sanity. He did not ask questions, instead leaving quietly... but the event will likely come back to bite you eventually.

 … not to mention that it will likely take weeks to get the room back into serviceable condition after that episode.

---> to a New Dawn

I'm good. Though, in case it matters, Sal would offer a bedroom to anyone who needed to sleep it off for the day, and if anyone took him up on the offer, he would stay in the house that day, as well.

OOC: we're going to say everyone managed to get out in time to get home for the night so you can be with the rest of the group.

Cool. Moving to New Dawn.