Vampire the Masquerade V5 - Solo Session - A Gathering of Roses

I'm currently running a Vampire the Masquerade chronicle using the 5th Edition rule-set for a small group of fellow role-players. These are the chronicles of their adventures.

Our chronicle is set in Los Angeles and features a small group of Camarilla agents sent into the 'Free States' to bring them back under Camarilla control. After a year of plotting, the coterie now controls the three North-Eastern Baronies and has successfully weakened several others. Unfortunately other Barons have used the chaos they have created to consolidate their own positions.

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The now obligatory warning bit - Unlike my other RPG write-ups this one will contain swearing, sexual references and other references that might offend. If you can't tell the difference between real peoples opinions and grown-ups role-playing predators who crave blood then this probably won't be for you. I've also used actual photographs to represent some characters which I'll give acknowledgements to at the end if I've any idea who they are.
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The introduction to this campaign, the first story and all the other parts can be found at the following links and are in chronological order. If you'd prefer a summary of each session rather than read everything then there's a more detailed link page HERE as well as links to the first episode of each story in the blog sidebar.
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Chronicle One - 'Infiltrate L.A.' 

Welcome to L.A. - Introductory Session
Story One - 'Three Murders' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Interlude Session - One
Story Two - 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part One, Two, Three, and Four
Solo Session - 'The Neillson Library'
Story Two Continued- 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part Five, Six, Seven and Eight
Story Three - 'Becoming Baron' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Gather'
Story Three Continued - 'Becoming Baron' - Part Six, Seven and Eight
Chronicle Two - 'Foothold L.A.' 

Solo Session - 'Hostile Takeover'
Story Four - 'Countdown' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Five - 'The Missing Chantry' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Anaheim Assassination'
Story Six - 'A Meeting of Barons' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Seven - 'The Carmelita Situation' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Eight - 'The Blount Sisters' - Part One and Two
Story Nine - 'Blood Money' - Part One, Two, Three, Four, Five and Six
Story Ten - 'Anathema' - Part One and Two
Story Eleven - 'Predators and Prey' aka 'The Blount Sisters' - Part Three
Story Twelve - 'Aftermath' - Part One and Two
Story Thirteen - 'The Messiah Complex' - Part One, Two, Three and Four
Chronicle Three - 'Incursion L.A.'

Story Fourteen - 'The Rant'
Story Fifteen - 'Ties of Blood' - Part One and Two

The Storyteller

As Everyone Else...

The PC

Sofia Rivera - Toreador - Dancer and Martial Artist

The player characters stats and backgrounds can be found HERE should any-one be interested, but be warned that the page is usually several stories ahead of the most recent write-up and may contain some spoilers. There's also some minor 'house-rules' HERE that have occurred as we went along.

As I have written out introductions and dialogue for certain NPC's and some location descriptions I'll post these more or less as I wrote them so they'll be in a 'reading to the group' style and they'll also be in blue so you can tell them apart from the more traditional write-up sections and occasionally an obscure Premonition will turn up in purple. If I think something needs a bit of out of character explanation then those will get a storytellers note that will helpfully be in red. Anything covered via player handouts will also be in blue as they're written in the same style as introductions and the like. Where particular NPC's have a mention in a faction profile you will be able to reach it by clicking on their name beneath their picture.

Introduction

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art

In order to commemorate the declaration of the The Los Angeles County Museum of Art as neutral ground for the Anarch's of Los Angeles, Isaac Abrams has invited all the Toreador of the Free States to exhibit their creative works at an exhibition organised by himself.

Each Toreador has been allocated an area to display their creations and a stage has been set up for those whose creative works are more performance related. Such an arena for direct comparison is no doubt going to inspire the Clan of the Rose to produce it's greatest works. In fact each display is sealed off until the evening of the event with deliveries being carefully monitored by Isaac's guards to ensure that no curious clan members peek at each others creative works.

You have been well fed, courtesy of Velvet's own herd and have had time to inform your grandesire that you are going to use the event as an opportunity to contact her childe, Michael Tomassio. You are however, unsure about how he is going to react to the news as you are aware that he and his sire suffered an estrangement at some point in the past. You have a suspicion that you are to be a proverbial 'olive branch' to mend that relationship.

Velvet has also briefed you on those Toreador who are to be present including some basic information that she has deemed relevant so you don't embarrass yourself and by extension, her..

Scene One - A Gathering of Roses

Issac Abrams - Toreador
Baron of Hollywood

You are to be the first act along with Velvet Velour in a dance routine designed by Velvet and carefully rehearsed by both of you over many weeks. However, time has been allocated for you to observe the displays of the other Toreador before your dance begins. Other similar events include a display of the martial arts by Ellie-May Li of Therese's 'commandos' and some form of singing performance by Velme.

The exterior walls are decorated with posters and scenes from some of Isaac Abrams most famous and well regarded film productions. You also notice that the few flops and poorly received works are conspicuously absent.

The Batholomew's have a large display area with the paintings of Sophia at the rear with shelves in front containing the sculptures of the rest of the family. George's sculptures are in the top row, with the wooden carvings of Francis on the row below and the glass creations of Bernard, George's childe, are on the lowest shelves.

The two madams and their enforcer who have been elevated from the owners of a mere pair of brothels to having control of the entire sex trade of Downtown, via their association with the 'Fixer' Marius, apparently have artistic talents beyond their trade. Lottie has a photographic display of a wide variety of tattoo's created and inscribed by her own hand.

Karla Bray - Toreador
Enforcer for 'The Blossoms'

The leader of the group of three's display is also photographic in nature. It seems that her interest in the act of sexual congress goes beyond merely business and extends into the field of erotica.

Karla, the enforcer of the three, has a significantly different form of expression. A display of beautifully decorated and deadly weapons are her contribution to the exhibition. Swords, daggers and paired martial arts weapons are centrally displayed with cabinets to either side containing more exotic weapons. Though usually seen in more practical clothing as befits her role, she is wearing an expensive, designer dress to this event.

A slightly built oriental woman has paid particular attention to this weapon display and you presume she is Ellie-May Li, leader of Therese Voerman's sweepers. Though most use the more diplomatic title of 'census-taker', it's worth noting that few think of her enforcers as anything but brutally efficient killers. It is a reputation they have most certainly earned. Their purge of the Caitiff and Thin-bloods of Santa Monica pier was said to be brutal in the extreme.

Other Toreador present as 'patrons of the arts' rather than artists themselves are Archibald Bartholomew, Victor Girard and of course arguably Isaac himself. 

Victor Girard - Toreador
Media Magnate

Security is being managed by Nicholas Rowland, Isaac's census-taker who is also of Clan Toreador. You are reasonably sure that there must be other Toreador in Los Angeles but apparently they have not been deemed important or notable enough to receive an invitation to this inaugural event.

A slim, beautiful, dark-haired woman is handing out refreshments in the form of preserved blood mixed with very expensive and rare wines, no doubt acquired at great expense by Isaac. You have been informed by Velvet that her name is Leanna and that she is considered to be one of the foremost blood Sommelier's in the America's.

She is the only none Toreador at the event, being duskborn. Apparently she has been invited as she was according to Issac "The closest thing to one of our clan that I trust to be able to look after the needs of my guests..." There is a bar with many bottles behind it, each one a perfect mixture of wine and blood of complimentary resonance, that Leanna returns to after her periodic distribution of beverages to the other guests. Leanna is in the service of LA's kindred 'Fixer' Marius Walker, though is in considerable demand due to her many other skills.

String Quartet - Blood Dolls
Kindred Entertainers for Hire

Music is being provided by a classical quartet whose performance is being transmitted from elsewhere in the building onto a screen along one wall. The sound is being relayed through an impressive state of the art sound system that replicates the music exactly.

These have also been provided by Marius, though why he has a classical quartet as blood dolls is something that's probably best not to ask. As kindred aware musicians of skill are something of a rarity, many Toreador and Ventrue utilise them for entertaining guests due to the lack of a requirement for subterfuge or subsequent alteration of the performers memories.

Storytellers Note - They were first mentioned in a previous story when Michael had to entertain an important kindred visitor to his gallery.

Michael Tomassio, Baron of the North-East and noted Anarch influencer has a display of his own paintings. You are of course familiar with the work of the Toreador who now controls the entire North-East of Los Angeles as it's baron, given your shared ancestry.

Michael Tomassio - Toreador
Baron of the North East

His current style is far darker and deeper than the earlier works of which you are familiar. His experiences over the last year have obviously effected him considerably. He seems to be on good terms with all the Toreador present though you can detect a certain lack of empathy towards all the Bartholomew's with the exception of Sophia. It seems that his experience of the family is less than positive. 

He also seems to be on personal terms with Leanna as he has conversed with her several times as she distributes beverages, whereas most present treat her with no more deference than they would any serving staff.


The charisma and beauty for which he is famous is palpable and it's hard to imagine that he is responsible for the death of an Archon at his own hand and led the attack that crippled the Cross Rebellion. It is of course Michael who you are most interested in as an individual, given your connection by bloodline.

Deciding that she was most interested in the weapons display, Sofia made her way there first. As she had to pass the Bartholomew's display on the way she acknowledged that she had noted their creations and indicated that she would return to view it in a moment. She also decided to wait for a more natural seeming way of talking to Michael than simply blundering over.

Scene Two - 'The Blossoms'

Tayla, Karla and Lottie - Toreador
Granted Domain Over the Sex Trade of Downtown

The three Toreador known somewhat derogatorily as the 'Blossoms' for reasons that no-one seems to remember have mingled little since their arrival. Karla Bray, the enforcer of the group moves adjacent to any other guest who approaches Tayla or Lottie as if unconvinced of the meetings Elysium status.

Velvet has informed you that despite the three being commonly described as the Blossoms that to do so in their presence would be "Unfortunate." Further prompting, led Velvet to reveal that Karla had allegedly destroyed at least two kindred who had addressed Tayla and Lottie using that particular nomenclature.

On closer inspection the photographic displays of the two madams are as expected. The erotic poses in Tayla's pictures are inventive and the subjects seem to have been selected to be complimentary in appearance as well as inclination. The photographs of Lottie's tattoo's show the detail is incredible and is the equal of many of the paintings of the other Toreador, despite her canvass being flesh. Roses are a common theme as is the male and female form.

Ornamental Kusarigama

Given your personal areas of expertise Karla's display is of particular interest. She seems to have a preference for curved blades. Scimitars of a number of types are represented including larger Saracen styled versions. Cutlasses, sabres and falcatas are also there as well as some more exotic blades such as a khopesh.

The smaller dagger sized blades are all displayed in identical pairs. The side displays stray significantly from the swords theme and include a Kusarigama, Kyoketsu-shoge, Chigiriki, Kusari-fundo and other chain based oriental weapons. To your trained eye they are both beautiful and seem to be functional too.

Sofia's first impressions of the three were that Tayla Quintana had the charisma and presence of a natural leader and it was easy to see why she, of the three, was considered to be in charge. Lottie Noble seemed to be the practical one of the group, and Sofia theorised that she probably dealt with the actual day to day business dealings. Karla Bray however moved like a warrior. She was always alert and talked little except when asked about her deadly creations, on which subject she was apparently quite happy to have a discussion.

Lottie Noble - Toreador
Madam, Tattooist and Blood Sorcerer

Looking more closely at the photographs of the tattoos, Sofia was very impressed and said so. "How long have you been working in this medium?" she asked, indicating the photographs of the intricate tattooed designs. "About a century..." was the reply. "...give or take a year or two." Sofia further enquired about whether such work could be done on the undead flesh of a kindred subject and was surprised when Lottie informed her that with the application of appropriate blood sorcery rituals that they could be made permanent. If one was willing to pay the price that is. "Do you do the photography yourself?" was Sofia's next question. "That's Tayla's field of expertise." said Lottie, gesturing to the erotic pictures next to her own works. "...a necessity given the subject matter."

Turning her attention to the weaponry, Sofia examined the swords closely and confirmed her original assessment that they were designed to be functional as well as beautiful. She paid particular attention to a beautifully engraved sabre, it being a sword type with which she was familiar. "Are you simply curious or are you familiar with weaponry?" Said Karla over Sofia's shoulder. Sofia explained that she had some martial arts training but implied that it was far more casual than it actually was. "You seem to have neglected to include any Japanese blades, despite having other weapon types from that land..."Enquired Sofia, "...any particular reason?" For the first time during their conversation, Kayla actually smiled. "I'm afraid that the 'trench-coat and Katana' fans put me off them somewhat. They became a cliche if you see what I mean. I have created such weapons but chose not to display them here, tonight."

Thanking them for their time, Sofia then made her way over to the display of the Bartholomew 'family'.

Scene Three - The Bartholomews

Archibald Bartholomew - Toreador
Patron of the Arts

The wooden carvings of Francis Bartholomew are made from the rarest of materials and are intricately carved representations of mythical creatures, The glass creations of Bernard are all flowers of various kinds though roses are of course the most common, the colours are vivid and the delicate nature of the construction is a wonder.

The sculptures of George Bartholomew are made from pale stone and are without exception intertwined male and female figures. The detail is of course exceptional but on closer inspection the female figures all seem to be fearful in expression, the males aggressive, the detail of where hands meet flesh all seem to show a grip of unnecessary force. The work is of course amazing, the content however leaves a slightly sour taste in your mouth.

Pride of place however are the paintings of Sophia. Each painting is of a subject guaranteed to elicit a response within a kindred observer, depicting experiences no longer truly available to the undead. Stunning sunsets that can no longer be seen, meals that can no longer be tasted as they should be, expressions of lovemaking that the vampire can only fake, never truly experience as a mortal would.

Archibald, their sire and patron barely acknowledges his childer or their works, he has all the appearance of a disappointed parent.

Sophia Bartholomew - Toreador
Artist

Velvet had informed Sofia that she wasn't a fan of the family with the exception of the artist Sophia who she liked and Bernard who she apparently felt sorry for. Though she had been given information on all of the family members by her patron Velvet Velour she decided to make up her own mind about them. If anything they were worse than even VV had implied.

Archibald Bartholomew was aloof, arrogant and talked down to everyone except Issac whom he seemed to see as an equal, or at the very least was worried about annoying. His utter disdain for his childer was even more apparent when he was approached and Sofia took an instant dislike to him.

Sophia Bartholomew, the artist was the only member of the 'family' who was an actual blood relation of Archibald. The rest were artists who he had collected as blood dolls, ghouls and then finally kindred. It had been rumoured that those that Archibald had grown weary of or hadn't achieved the standards he required, tended to go disappear permanently.

Sofia's namesake Sophia was friendly and came across as slightly nervous and unsure of herself. She only really seemed to come to life when speaking to Michael Tomassio and she made frequent visits to his display.

George Bartholomew had, as far as Sofia could tell, only two facial expressions. One cruel and the other scornful. He was patronising when talking to anyone female as if they're opinion is worthless and only slightly better when speaking to a male member of the clan.

George, Francis and Bernard Bartholomew

Of the two remaining childer of the family, Francis Bartholomew was in a world of his own but would go into explicit detail about the mythological history of any of the creatures in his carvings, but was interested in nothing else. When asked about his work he would skim quickly over the method of their creation before turning the conversation to the creatures represented. Bernard Bartholomew was the childe of George and was surprisingly normal, knowledgeable on his chosen subject, and very protective of Sophia. It was fairly obvious that he doesn't like his sire very much at all.

All in all she was quite happy to have an excuse to leave them as she was beckoned by Velvet to join her for their dance performance.

Scene Four - Velvet Velour

Velvet Velour - Toreador
Dancer

The musicians have been given a break in order to not distract from the first display which is the dance routine designed by Velvet and featuring yourself. The rest of those present stop what they are doing to observe and Leanna returns to the bar once more.

The routine that 'VV' has designed is a representation of a relationship between lovers expressed through dance. She is as usual dressed in her usual lingerie whereas your own costume consists of a perfectly tailored skirt, and jacket.

You begin the performance as the dominant figure, gradually being overwhelmed as the relationship progresses from passion, through indifference to obsession. It has taken nearly a month of practice before 'VV' was happy with the routine and you suspect that there is a personal element to the story you are telling.

Sofia's timing wasn't quite perfect, perhaps due to now being under the scrutiny of the most significant of her clan, and Velvet had to alter her own movements very slightly to compensate. An almost imperceptible glance from Velvet conveyed her displeasure as her supernaturally enhanced presence shifted momentarily from awe inspiring to daunting, though only Sofia experienced the change in emphasis.

Resolving to make up for the minor lapse, Sofia stepped up the quality of her performance considerably and Velvet's appreciation of the effort was palpable. With them now perfectly synchronised the dance became utterly breathtaking.

The performance is, as far as any one viewing was aware, perfect and the applause is generous and genuine. Issac thanks you and hands you each a bouquet of Juliet Roses. Velvet informs you later that the Juliet Rose is the most expensive rose ever developed, costing its creator David Austin three million dollars over the course of fifteen years. The vast amount of money and effort had been to develop a striking flower that boasted impressive large-headed blooms and it was a particular favourite of Isaac Abrams.

These particular bouquets are wrapped in the finest silks and have obviously been prepared by an expert flower arranger. It seems that Issac is keen to make this inaugural event particularly memorable.

Scene Five - Ellie-May Li

Ellie-May Li - Toreador
Commando Coterie Leader

'Li' has changed out of the outfit she was wearing initially and is now dressed in the garb of an Onna-bugeisha, a female warrior of the Japanese nobility. She is wielding a Naginata, the pole weapon most associated with those female samurai.

The display starts slowly, with basic techniques performed with perfect form, then gradually increases in speed and complexity. As acrobatic moves are added, the movements become a blur interspersed with sudden changes of speed to show off individual techniques that somehow blend perfectly with those performed at speed.

She gradually slows once more, lays the pole weapon on the ground and begins another display of unarmed techniques. To your eye you can see where she has compromised the effectiveness of certain skills to more aesthetically blend the different styles she demonstrates, you imagine that it's unlikely that she makes such changes when in an actual combat situation.

Direct striking styles like Karate are linked to those that use an opponents strength against them as well as acrobatic methods such as capoeira. As the display comes to an end she rolls forward, plucks the spear from the ground and hurls it across the hall into a target on the opposite side of the hall with perfect accuracy. She then bows formally and leaves the stage to change back into her early outfit. The applause this time is more subdued but those amongst the audience with martial inclinations are impressed to say the least. As Ellie-May leaves the stage she walks over to you, purposely. "I noticed during your dance routine, certain nods to martial arts techniques. Are you a practitioner yourself?"

Sabre

Sofia confirmed that she had studied various martial arts but insisted that they were as a supplement to her dancing rather than a dedicated speciality. When prompted about weapons she gave the same reply but it was evident that Li doubted her word. "Then perhaps if Ms Bray would permit us, we could have a contest utilising her wonderful creations..."

She then turned to address the weapons-smith. "...one presumes they are functional as well as aesthetically pleasing?" Karla smiled and then replied. "All of my creations are more than merely functional, in fact they may be too 'functional' for a friendly contest, but feel free to test them if you wish."

Torn between the potential loss of face should she refuse and revealing the true nature of her abilities, she decided that the latter was the lesser of the two evils and accepted. She then queried the terms of the challenge. It was obvious that Li had already considered this, and Sofia was relieved that the leader of Therese's Commando coterie seemed to have come up with fairly reasonable parameters for the contest.

Twin Swords

"Usually such contests are to 'first blood' but that hardly applies to us. Shall we say, the first to inflict three wounds to the other? We should also restrain ourselves from thrusts to the heart or attacks from the neck upwards. It would be a shame to sully Isaac's event with am accidental tragedy, don't you think?" Sofia agreed that would indeed be unfortunate.

Karla had a bewildering choice of weapons to choose from. Of swords there were scimitars, a larger Saracen scimitar, cutlasses, sabres, falcatas, a khopesh, a pair of tiger hook swords, butterfly swords and a number of paired daggers. The exotic chain weapons alongside them included kusarigama, kyoketsu-shoge, chigiriki and kusari-fundo as well as a number of chain-linked weapons that Sofia didn't recognise. Presumably they were customised creations of Karla's own devising.

Engraved Chain Links

Each link of the chains had been individual inscribed with spiral patterns. Li selected a pair of Hudiedao butterfly swords, while Sofia took the sabre she'd been admiring earlier. The weapon was perfectly balanced and surprisingly light.

Sofia dropped into a traditional Polish sabre fighting stance, while Li also adopted a traditional stance from the fighting arts of China. Sofia paused, allowing Li to attack first, countered and then slipped under her guard. Respecting the terms of the contest she pulled the blow sufficiently to only cause a superficial blow along her side. Sofia then feinted before changing direct with the attack at the last moment. Li preempted the change and drew her blade across the right side of Sofia's chest before sliding back out of range.

Sofia changed tactics adopting a low guard before switching to a rising cut, but once again the attack was anticipated as Li's blade swung down towards her neck. At the last moment the attack was diverted so as to not remove Sofia's head, enabling the sabre wielding Toreador to duck beneath the blow.

A third exchange left Li with a cut across the shoulder and Sofia with a similarly superficial wound in her thigh. With two strikes each, the combatants became more wary, each waiting for a weakness in each others guard. A few seconds later they moved as one, each going for the third and final wound.

As each turned to face the other they had both struck and neither was sure who had been first. It seemed that none of the viewing Toreador cared to pick either so Issac declared the contest a draw. "You fight well for a dancer." said Li, though there was no sarcasm in her voice. "Perhaps you'll permit me a re-match at the next of Issac's events?"

Storytellers Note - This was such a satisfying result that it might seem like I planned it that way but I assure you it was entirely the fault of dice, lol.

"Of course." Replied Sofia as they walked over to Karla to return their weapons. "Keep them with my compliments." Said Karla. "A gift from one artist to another." as she passed each of them a scabbard for their chosen blade. Compared to the weapons themselves their scabbards were plain, though made from the best of materials. Both expressed their gratitude then went their separate ways.

Scene Six - Leanna

Leanna - Duskborn
Blood Sommelier and Alchemist

George Bartholomew seems to be in a debate with Leanna about the quality of the wine, he seems to be querying whether the wine mixed with this particular creation is in fact a 1951 Grange Hermitage due to his detection of a hint of Cabernet Sauvignon. Leanna is calmly explaining that though the wine is predominantly Shiraz it does have a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon and is regarded as one of Australia’s finest wines. George then expresses his disbelief that Australia is capable of producing the finest of anything. The Sommelier politely explains that he is of course entitled to his opinion but as she moves away, George grips her arm. "I hadn't finished, talking..." he says...

The debate has attracted the attention of many of the guests though no-one seems inclined to intervene. Sofia placed her hand on the hilt of her newly acquired sabre and briefly considered getting involved before reconsidering. She would see how events played out for a little longer before coming to a decision.

Leanna leans closer to George and cups his chin gently in one hand. The obnoxious member of the Bartholomew family attempts to disengage himself from her seemingly casual gesture and is apparently unable to do so. He is obviously in some pain and discomfort as she leans in even closer and whispers something into his ear.

Duskborn Blood Sorcery

As she let's go, he stumbles backwards, as Issac and Archibald arrive simultaneously to see what the problem is. "We simply had a minor difference of opinion over what makes a truly great wine." Says Leanna before walking away. As she returns to the bar, Archibald seems to be apologising to Issac for his childe's conduct before moving to make a similar attempt at conciliation to the woman herself. 

Sofia was curious and used her preternatural senses to eavesdrop on the conversation. She imagined that many of the other Toreador were doing exactly the same. Though Leanna politely brushed off the need for an apology, Archibald seemed uncharacteristically concerned that she may have been offended, considering his arrogance this struck Sofia as unusual. She waited for him to leave before going over to chat with the sommelier in person."For what it's worth..." Began Sofia. "...In my opinion the new world is entirely capable of producing a good wine..." Leanna smiled at this before replying in quiet conspiratorial tones. "Well to be fair, I've been giving him the wine equivalent of dishwater all evening. I don't think there was even any blood in that last glass, let alone a decent vintage."

Marius Walker - Autarkis Gangrel
Occasionally Prone to Overreaction

After some initial pleasantries, Sofia turned the conversation to the rest of the Bartholomew family and discovered that Leanna's opinions of the various members of the family were very similar to her own observations. Sofia then enquired about why Archibald seemed so keen to stay on the good side of Leanna.

"Archibald may be concerned about my employer taking the incident more seriously than I myself have done." Said Leanna. "The patriarch of the Bartholomew clan has many faults but his indiscretions are nothing compared to those of his childe. My employer has to 'fix' such things for Archibald with what must for him be concerning regularity. My employer is also somewhat notorious for reacting poorly to threats against those under his protection." Leanna then handed Sofia a glass of wine. "This is the vintage that George thought he was drinking. Let me know what you think." Sofia knew better than to attempt to bluff a knowledge of wines with an obvious expert so merely complimented it's flavour and thanked her for the drink.

"Of course the other factor in his thinking..." she continued "...may well have been that I'm entirely capable of killing his childe without leaving a mark and no-one wants to see their offspring melted from the inside out." Sofia got the feeling that Leanna wasn't joking at all. Sofia decided to turn their chatting to a discussion of Michael Tomassio who she was actually in Los Angeles to meet. "I've had a look at all the displays except the one of the artist Michael." prompted Sofia. "What's he like?"

Leanna explained that Michael was considered to be somewhat of an influencer of Anarch politics within the Free States and was increasingly sought after as an intermediary for disputes between barons who require some-one with a cool-head as host. He was also that rare breed of kindred who genuinely seemed to want a better world for everyone rather than just himself.

She also pointed out that his caring nature didn't preclude him from taking action when necessary.

She then listed several events to support this conclusion including him intervening in an argument between Nines Rodriguez and Marius Walker by more or less accusing them of being bickering kids, eliminating a rogue Archon who had set his sights on a kindred under his protection, and firing the first shot that signalled the end for what the LA kindred were calling the Cross Rebellion. Sofia had to admit that he sounded like an impressive individual. "Would you like an introduction?" asked Leanna

"That would be wonderful." Replied Sofia

Scene Seven - Michael Tomassio

Stéphanie Mayoux - Clan Toreador
Sire of Michael Tomassio

Leanna made the introductions as promised and exchanged a few pleasant but inconsequential minutes with Michael before returning to her duties. She first however left them with an exquisite bottle of wine and two glasses.

Not wanting to drop their connection via bloodline into the conversation straight away, Sofia instead mentioned her admiration for what Michael had achieved in Los Angeles and attempted to get a feel for the kindred before her who was, based on what she'd been told, such a contradiction. Having no idea of who she was specifically, Michael launched into his normal spiel about Anarch culture, his opinions on it in general, and when prompted, about some of the changes he believed it would benefit from.

Deciding that subtlety was getting her nowhere she mentioned that she had the need to talk to Michael privately about a matter of some importance. Easily sensing that she was being sincere, Michael stepped out onto one of the balconies and asked her to elaborate.

Once they had some privacy, Sofia told Michael that she had been sent by his sire, who was her own grandesire to assist him with his mission to take over Los Angeles for the Camarilla. She also pointed out that as he had now seen her skills, he must be able to appreciate that she had much to offer.

Michael had several concerns. Firstly, he would need to inform the rest of his coterie what was going on so he'd need some time before formally introducing her. Secondly, he'd have to ensure that it didn't look to Isaac like he was headhunting from within another's domain. Thirdly, she would have to accept that it was him who was in charge, not some kindred in another city, whether they were related by bloodline or not. Michael then looked at the very expensive watch on his wrist. "Velme is performing in a moment, we should go back inside..."

"Well..." thought Sofia. "..at least he hadn't said No..."
'
Scene Eight - Velme

Velme - Toreador
Suspected 'Daughter of Cacophony'

The androgynous Toreador from Gloria Martinez's barony, who calls themselves 'Velme' makes their way to the stage. As the performance is to be vocal in nature you expected there to be a microphone or instruments available, but there are none. As soon as they begin, it is obvious that they have no need of such mundane tools, their voice itself being all they need.

There song begins quietly, a simple love song, though it should be a strain to hear, subdued as it is, each word is clear. The words are however irrelevant as the emotions conveyed are felt vividly by each listener as if the events were felt by themselves personally. As the performance progresses, several of those present have been moved to tears, emotions never felt so vividly since they walked the world as mortals overwhelming them.

Sofia found herself also caught up in the emotions relayed by the song and found herself crying bloody tears in spite of herself. She noticed that Michael had also succumbed though she was reasonably sure that given how in touch he was with his humanity that he was unlikely to have attempted to resist, even if he could have.

Time becomes of no consequence and few present could tell you if the song lasted minutes or hours and as her voice fades to nothing at the finale a sadness is felt by all. Velme smiles, seemingly satisfied with the effect that they have had on the audience. The applause is thunderous but as it fades one set of hands at the rear of the hall are still clapping.

Scene Nine - Christopher Houghton

Christopher Houghton - Toreador
5th Generation Elder

At the rear of the hall is a golden haired boy who appears to be all of twelve or thirteen years wearing an outfit of exquisite silks, to describe him as angelic would be an understatement. At his side is a small man about five foot eight inches in height. He is muscular, with long black hair, tied back. He has a moustache but no beard, and wears a beautiful smile. He is dressed in an expensive, black suit that despite it's custom tailoring somehow still seems to be a poor fit as if it is a costume he feels uncomfortable wearing. Though no one witnessed their arrival, it somehow feels that the beautiful child and his protector have witnessed the entire event.

All the Toreador present recognise Christopher Houghton, as the tale of the circumstances of him leaving Boston are well known by the clan. However in his presence it's difficult to imagine that such a perfect creature could fail in any endeavour, the tales of his embarrassment, no doubt the work of rivals, jealous of his talents.

Some of those now focused upon the new arrivals were experienced enough to detect the use of the unnatural presence of the Toreador clan, though at power levels beyond anything they'd ever felt before. Some made token attempts to resist but their willpower crumbled beneath the onslaught.

Storytellers Note - I allowed Sofia's player an attempt to resist which she failed by a significant margin. Michael who is normally a PC but was an NPC during this solo session was also allowed a roll to resist. He also failed...

Joaquín Murietta - Toreador
Childe of Christopher Houghton

Issac makes a bee-line for the guest. "My apologies Christopher, had I known you wished to attend I would have made provision, but you did, in my defence, make it clear you wished your presence in the city to remain a secret." The child waves away the apology as unnecessary. As he speaks his voice is if anything, more beautiful than his physical appearance. "I place no blame on you, Issac, It was a last-minute whim. A gathering of our clan was just too much to resist attending personally..."

As he walked around the various exhibits, his guard habitually at his side, he seemed most interested in the more traditional works such as art and sculptures though still took the time to acknowledge the creations of the other exhibitors. Those who attempted to speak with him found themselves tongue-tied, their words and talents somehow inadequate in the presence of a being of such perfection. "Thank-you all for the inspiration, perhaps I shall show something of my own next time." he said, each word dripping with honey. Then as suddenly as he appeared, he is gone.

Only three kindred present found themselves capable of recalling the child's visit. Those were Issac Abrams, Michael Tomassio and Velme. Each knew that the other shared the secret, each was also aware that Christopher knew that they remembered him. Sofia however simply shook her head momentarily confused before rejoining the others as the exhibits were viewed a final time before the closing of the event.

Storytellers Note - To be fair it was probably more important that Michael knew of Christopher's presence than Sofia, anyway.

Wrapping up the event, Issac thanked everyone for their attendance and contributions. "Perhaps next time, another of our clan will take responsibility for holding an event?" He knew none of the clan would waste such an opportunity if it arose. "I shall think upon who would be best suited and inform them once I have made a selection."

To be Continued in 'The Southern Solution' Part One

In Conclusion

I like to do a round-up of how the session went in these features but if you couldn't give a shit what I think then feel free to skip this bit...

That session went pretty much as I was expecting. As it was effectively all set in one room and I had pre-planned events it was, admittedly, a fairly safe bet that nothing too staggeringly surprising would occur to the player. I have of course been wrong before.

Sofia's player was given an opportunity in this session to forge some basic relationships with other characters so when they join the rest of the coterie they have some relevant in character opinions on some of the NPC's. This (in my opinion at least) is of benefit as it establishes them as part of the culture and politics of LA from the very beginning.

The appearance of Christopher Houghton was more for the benefit of Michael's player as he ties into several other plots I've been hinting at in the background which will become more apparent further into this chronicle.

Acknowledgements

“Portions of the materials are the copyrights and trademarks of White Wolf Entertainment AB, and are used with permission. All rights reserved. For more information please visit white-wolf.com.”

I've used pictures of real people to represent some of the characters and art for others so in no particular order Sofia is Eliza Dushku, Issac Abrams is Gary Oldman, Karla Bray is Rose McGowan, Michael Tomassio is Matt Bomer, Tayla Quintana is Alyssa Milano, Lottie Noble is Holly Marie Combs, Archibald Bartholomew is Eric Roberts, Sophia Bartholomew is Sophia Myles, George Bartholomew is Michael Shannon, Francis Bartholomew is Rick Hoffman, Bernard Bartholomew is  Gavin Rossdale, Ellie-May Li is Bai Ling, Leanna is Leeanna Vamp, Marius Walker is Tony Curran, Stéphanie Mayoux is Emily Beechum and Joaquin Marietta is Danny Trejo. Everything else is from vampire related folders and searches and is as far as I know is all of the 'fair use' variety. If there's something that you feel should be attributed to some-one then feel free to let me know and I'll happily add an acknowledgement...