[X] [JOB] Annabelle liked the portfolio I sent her, so she accepted me as one of her "interns".

As the one whose artist chargen plan won, I feel obligated to vote for this?

No real feeling on the loyalty vote.

Edit: Had time to think and Artie would probably be a fan of law. Probably.

[X] [LOYALTY] For all its flaws, the Camarilla's Traditions are the best way to protect Kindred.
 
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[X] [JOB] Annabelle liked the portfolio I sent her, so she accepted me as one of her "interns".

Artie did wanna be an artist before he was Embraced. They feel like they'd be into consistency.

[X] [JOB] I chose to help Wauneka expand Clan Nosferatu's network of informants.

This sounds fun too tho.

[X] [LOYALTY] For all its flaws, the Camarilla's Traditions are the best way to protect Kindred.

And these laws all sound pretty reasonable so far. If Artie finds out anything awful they can always reconsider.
 
[X] [JOB] Annabelle liked the portfolio I sent her, so she accepted me as one of her "interns".
[X] [LOYALTY] I'm in this for myself, my mortal loved ones, and my fellow Nosferatu.
 
[X] [JOB] I chose to help Wauneka expand Clan Nosferatu's network of informants.
[X] [JOB] Annabelle liked the portfolio I sent her, so she accepted me as one of her "interns".
[X] [JOB] Patrol duty under Sheriff Damien seems like the best use of my military experience.


[X] [LOYALTY] For all its flaws, the Camarilla's Traditions are the best way to protect Kindred.


Great chapter, hope you have a great weekend.
 
Introduction 1.10
After some deliberation, you decided to submit some of your artwork to Annabelle, figuring you had nothing to lose. If the Toreador Primogen did not like your work, you had other options available to you. Still, you weren't going to lose this opportunity because you accidentally left in one of the furry commissions that helped pay the rent on your basement apartment.

Thus, when you weren't busy learning how to be a proper Nosferatu, you were carefully curating your portfolio. Night after night, you made decision after decision regarding what made the cut. Eventually, the collection itself is as much a work of art as the pieces contained within. Only then did you dare pick up the phone and arrange a meeting with Annabelle to discuss your work.

-​

The Succubus Club remains as glamorous as ever as you approach the front doors. You tighten your grip on the handle of the black leather portfolio bag you splurged on for the occasion as you stride up to the bouncers. Fortunately, they seem to be expecting you. After passing along word of your arrival through the radio, the bouncers give you directions to Annabelle's office as they remove the velvet rope for you to enter the club.

In contrast to the rest of the Succubus Club, the soundproofed manager's office overlooking the main dancefloor is an oasis of tranquility. At the other end of the room sits an expectant Annabelle at her desk. "Good evening, Annabelle."

Annabelle inclines her head in acknowledgment as she wordlessly gestures for you to take a seat. As you sit down in one of the plush chairs, you hand over your portfolio for inspection and prepare yourself for the coming critique. Some of your pieces are well-received, while others are verbally savaged. You find yourself agreeing with some of her criticisms, though other comments force you to suppress the Beast lest you fly into a furious frenzy.

However, the most notable moment occurs when Annabelle lays eyes upon your latest work. Her gaze is transfixed upon the canvas as if the painting in her manicured hands were the most beautiful thing in the world. As much as you'd like to believe that you're just that good at art, you sense that there's more going on.

Your initial attempts to regain Annabelle's attention by speaking her name fail to work, so after weighing the odds, you decide to resort to more drastic measures. You inhale deeply before channeling the spirit of your old drill sergeant from Fort Benning. "ANNABELLE!"

At the sound of your voice, Annabelle snaps to attention as if she were a new recruit nodding off during early morning training. "O-Oh... My apologies, Delacruz. I didn't mean to worry you. Us Roses have an unfortunate tendency to develop sudden obsessions."

"It's fine," you say as you settle back into your seat. "As long as you're okay. Why don't you tell me what you think about the painting?"

The painting in question is a self-portrait you had been working on since that party at the Succubus Club. While making it, you made the conscious decision to limit yourself to four colors. Red and blue mixed together to form the burn scars left by your Embrace, while white and black blended to create the gray hues of your undead pallor.

"You may be Kindred now, but the decision to use more unusual colors in your self-portrait is a reflection of your mortal life, isn't it?"

"That's right. My decision to join the Army wasn't just because I wanted free healthcare and money for college. Even in death, some part of me still belongs to the United States."

Annabelle's blue-eyed gaze lingers on your scarred face. "Ah, but you no longer serve the American government, do you? What do you plan on doing with the rest of your unlife, hmm?"

Judging by how she breaks eye contact to pay more attention to your work, Annabelle intended her question to be rhetorical. Still, you can't help but think. What do you plan on doing with the rest of eternity?

[] [AMBITION] To serve the Camarilla with distinction.
[] [AMBITION] To become famous throughout the art world.
[] [AMBITION] To create a world where mortals and Kindred can coexist peacefully.
[] [AMBITION] To find a cure to my vampiric condition.
[] [AMBITION] Write-in.

-​

Annabelle slides the last piece of your portfolio back into the bag with more care than she had initially given it. As she hands the bag back to you, she says, "I'm hosting Elysium at the Linda Enfield Art Gallery next Friday. Will you have something ready to display by then?"

You smile and nod as you rise from your seat, an action that is soon mimicked by Annabelle. You shake hands, marking the beginning of your relationship. Word travels fast along the Kindred grapevine, and it isn't long before everyone and their sire seems to know of your association with the Primogen of Clan Toreador. While some of the more snobbish Toreador and Ventrue resent your place at Annabelle's side, other members of the Camarilla see your position as a sign that you're an up-and-comer to look out for.

As the newest and likely the strangest addition to her entourage, Annabelle has you serve as both a personal assistant and a bodyguard.

While the superhuman speed inherent in the blood of Clan Toreador makes them surprisingly effective combatants, you find yourself a niche as the guy who clocks drunken revelers in the back of the head before they have a chance to ruin Annabelle's parties.

With the power of your Nosferatu vitae, it's easy for you to fade into the background and really observe. With every occasion, your knowledge of Kindred society grows, and to your surprise, it's not entirely unlike the world you knew as a soldier.

Much like the officers that had once commanded you, the officials of Prince Jackson's court demand proper respect. They may not be expecting a salute, but the underlying idea of observing proper etiquette remains the same.

You also learn who wields what kind of power in Chicago's Camarilla. While Prince Jackson may sit at the top of the local hierarchy, no man rules alone. For example, Sheriff Damien upholds law and order throughout the city in Prince Jackson's place, while the Prince's seneschal, Alan Sovereign, handles the financials for many of Chicago's Kindred.

Of course, there are more tangible benefits to your association with the Primogen of Clan Toreador. Annabelle knows someone at every art gallery in town and has considerable influence in Chicago's mortal art world. With her as your broker, you're making more money than you ever did as a freelancer, even after Annabelle takes her cut. True, you're far from the richest or most famous person in Chicago's gallery scene. However, your work is beginning to attract a following, and it's put you in touch with artists and gallery organizers.

One day, you might be able to leverage your newfound resources toward a greater purpose. However, you and the rest of Chicago's Kindred first have to deal with the arrival of some newcomers...

This update marks the end of the introductory arc. Expect to see a full-blown character sheet for Artie sometime this week before we get started on the next storyline.
 
Heck of a choice here haha

I think I'll hold off til more discussion happens. Definitely leaning towards coexistence tho.
 
Heck of a choice here haha

I think I'll hold off til more discussion happens. Definitely leaning towards coexistence tho.

That's what I'm leaning towards too. There all good options, though for different reasons.
1) Some people want to stand out amongst a crowd and in an immortal society like the kindred that can be worthy goal.
2) This option is fleeting but ever attainable as the opinion of 'good' art shifts our popularity will always ebb and flow. It reflects our passion for art but we must always remember we will never remain at the top forever.
3) I do like this goal as gives a drive to retain our humanity and fight for a better future. But keep in mind that to achieve it their will have to be change in both societies and such things rarely happen without conflict.
4) This is an interesting goal to explore, I feel like at this time we aren't sufficiently motivated to try to undo it. Perhaps if our situation was more desperate but at this point in time being a kindred has been a net positive. Though that can always change.

[X] [AMBITION] To create a world where mortals and Kindred can coexist peacefully.
 
2) This option is fleeting but ever attainable as the opinion of 'good' art shifts our popularity will always ebb and flow. It reflects our passion for art but we must always remember we will never remain at the top forever.
Artistic tastes will vary from generation to generation, of course. However, at the same time, modern commentators still respect Renaissance masters like Leonardo da Vinci for their contributions to art and culture. The goal here is for Artie to leave their mark on the art world, even if they fall out of style further down the road. Of course, there's nothing stopping Artie from adding to their legacy under different names if they manage to survive past the length of a human lifespan.

3) I do like this goal as gives us the drive to retain our humanity and fight for a better future. But keep in mind that... such things rarely happen without conflict.
According to the Brujah and Banu Haqim, the ancient city of Carthage came closest to achieving true harmony between humans and vampires before the Ventrue of Rome fucked it all up. In turn, the Blue Bloods claim that Carthage was ruled by a degenerate blood cult that made human sacrifices to infernal powers. The subject is... contentious, to say the least.
 
[X] [AMBITION] To create a world where mortals and Kindred can coexist peacefully.
 
Character Sheet (as of Arc 11.02)
Arturo "Artie" Delacruz (He/They)
Clan: Nosferatu
Sire: Unknown
Ambition: To create a world where mortals and Kindred can coexist peacefully.

Making progress towards achieving your Ambition will recover Aggravated Willpower damage.

Convictions and Touchstones:
  • Nick Delacruz – Your older brother and auditing manager at a local accounting firm.
    • No one should be left behind or forgotten.
  • Valerie Arnold – Old war buddy who works at a nonprofit, helping fellow military veterans.
    • Always protect your fellow Americans.
Touchstones are mortals who define the best in humanity for you. They represent the Convictions you hold onto even after death. Harm to your Touchstones puts Stains on your Humanity tracker. On the other hand, acting in service of a Conviction can mitigate the accumulation of Stains on your Humanity tracker.

Significantly benefiting your Touchstone or upholding your Convictions against your best interest will recover Aggravated Willpower damage.

Humanity: 8 - [ ][ ]
Your connection to what you once were keeps the Beast from taking over your body and turning you into a mindless wight. At this level, you still feel pain for the harm you and other Kindred inflict, and memories of your mortal life keep your human guise passable.
  • Roll two dice for the Rouse Check to use Blush of Life and take the highest result.
  • Blush of Life allows you to consume, digest, and taste most liquids, though only blood provides you sustenance.
  • You can rise an hour before sunset if you wish.
  • Add two dice to Willpower rolls to resist Frenzy.
  • You remain in torpor for only a week.
Killing and harming people without cause puts Stains on your Humanity tracker. Accumulate more than one, and your dice rolls will become Impaired until you either express Remorse or willingly drop to Humanity 7.

Generation: 10th
Blood Potency: 1/4
  • Blood Surge: Make a Rouse check to add two dice to rolls involving your Attributes.
  • Damage Mended per Rouse Check: 1 Superficial
  • Discipline Power Bonus: None
  • Discipline Rouse Check Reroll: Level 1
  • Bane Severity: 2
Attributes:
  • Physical
    • Strength 3/5 (You might be able to break down a wooden door.)
    • Dexterity 4/5 (You handle both your brush and body with finesse.)
    • Stamina 2/5 (You can take a beating if you have to.)
  • Social
    • Charisma 1/5 (There's a reason you were something of a reclusive artist even before you became a Nosferatu.)
    • Manipulation 3/5 (You're an excellent haggler.)
    • Composure 2/5 (You can usually control the Beast.)
  • Mental
    • Intelligence 2/5 (You are smart enough to realize the limits of your knowledge.)
    • Wits 3/5 (You can analyze a situation and quickly work out the best escape route.)
    • Resolve 2/5 (You can concentrate for a long time if necessary.)
Secondary Attributes:
Health 5 - [ ][ ][ ][ ][ ]
Your total Health equals three plus your Stamina. If Aggravated Damage (X) fills every box on the Health tracker, you fall into a state of torpor and are helpless to avert Final Death.

Willpower 4 - [ ][ ][ ][ ]
Willpower measures your confidence, mental stability, and competence in overcoming unfavorable odds. Your maximum Willpower rating is equal to Composure + Resolve. Spending a point of Willpower allows you to reroll up to three regular dice, control yourself during a Frenzy, and resist the effects of supernatural coercion, such as the Dominate and Presence Disciplines.

Hunger 1/5
Part appetite, part bloodlust, and part addiction, the Hunger is the expression of the Beast inside you. For every level of Hunger that affects you, a Hunger die replaces one of the regular dice in a roll. Rolling a ten or a one on a Hunger die makes unlife more complicated by introducing the possibility of a messy critical or a bestial failure. The only way to not be hungry (at least for the rest of the night) is to kill someone.

Skills
  • Physical
    • Athletics 1/5 (You still have a lively spring in your undead step.)
    • Brawl 2/5 (You remember some of your Army Combatives training from boot camp.)
    • Craft 3/5 (You can make a living off your art.)
    • Driving 0/5 (Any attempts to recreate stunts from the Fast & Furious movies are likely to fail.)
    • Firearms 2/5 (It's been a while, but you can still handle yourself in a firefight if given an M16.)
    • Larceny 0/5 (You couldn't lockpick your way out of a wet paper bag.)
    • Melee 1/5 (You know how to stick them with the pointy end.)
    • Stealth 2/5 (You can tail the unaware without giving yourself away.)
    • Survival 0/5 (You're a city kid, through and through.)
  • Social
    • Animal Ken 0/5 (Most creatures know your true nature and make a point to avoid you.)
    • Etiquette 1/5 (You know how to address your Camarilla superiors without offending them.)
    • Insight 3/5 (You can provide counseling more effectively than even someone who doesn't want to eat their patient.)
    • Intimidation 0/5 (Despite your military experience, you appear harmless.)
    • Leadership 1/5 (You can get like-minded people to follow your lead.)
    • Performance 0/5 (You wither when thrust under the spotlight. At least it's not the sun.)
    • Persuasion 3/5 (You may be good at art, but your bargaining skills are what kept clients from stiffing you.)
    • Streetwise 1/5 (You know the best places to score drugs and sex in Chicago.)
    • Subterfuge 2/5 (You can hustle naive marks, old and young, into giving you their things.)
  • Mental
    • Academics 2/5 (You studied art history while in college, and Nick loves to geek out about historical anecdotes.)
    • Awareness 2/5 (Your artistic training has honed your eye for detail.)
    • Finance 1/5 (You still retain the business experience gained during your freelancing days.)
    • Investigation 2/5 (You have a firm knowledge of criminology and the rogues that threaten the Prince's regime.)
    • Medicine 0/5 (Your medical knowledge is limited to 911 and the address of the closest Walgreens.)
    • Occult 1/5 (You've read the Book of Nod and know the legends of Caine and the Antediluvians.)
    • Politics 2/5 (You can apply influence at a local level.)
    • Science 0/5 (Look, you were busy doodling in your notebook during high school biology, alright?)
    • Technology 1/5 (You still remember how to use Photoshop and upgrade a PC.)
Disciplines
  • Animalism 2/5
    • Bond Famulus: An animal that has consumed your vitae can become your famulus. Doing so establishes a mental link between you and your companion and facilitates other Animalism powers.
    • Feral Whispers: You can communicate with animals and even persuade them to do things for you with a successful Manipulation + Animalism check. You can also summon a type of animal to your location with a successful Charisma + Animalism check.
  • Auspex 1/5
    • Sense the Unseen: You can detect what is hidden supernaturally from the five senses, such as ghosts, Kindred using Obfuscate, and dormant Blood Sorcery spells and rituals. Roll Wits + Auspex to notice something supernatural hiding in plain sight, and Resolve + Auspex while actively searching for a hidden supernatural entity.
  • Celerity 1/5
    • Rapid Reflexes: You can instantly perceive events and react to them with superhuman alacrity, allowing you to pull off stunts like dodging bullets. You suffer no penalty when defending against Firearms attacks without cover. You can also freely take a minor action worth up to two dice per turn, such as readying or reloading a weapon.
  • Dominate 1/5
    • Cloud Memory: By uttering the phrase "Forget!" you can make a target forget the last few minutes - enough to mask a superficial feeding or a chance meeting. Clouding the memory of a resisting victim or another vampire requires a Charisma + Dominate roll.
  • Fortitude 1/5
    • Unswayable Mind: You have a mystical ability to resist any attempts to sway you through mundane charms, coercion, and wiles. Add dice equal to your Fortitude rating to any roll made to resist intimidation, seduction, or other means to change your mind against your will. This power also works against supernatural abilities like the Dominate and Presence Disciplines.
  • Obfuscate 2/5
    • Cloak of Shadows: Only mechanical or supernatural means can find you, so long as you stay motionless behind cover. To avoid the notice of other vampires with Sense the Unseen (Auspex 1), roll Wits + Obfuscate. To maintain stealth after drawing attention to yourself or while preparing a surprise attack, roll Wits + Stealth.
    • Unseen Passage: Roll a Rouse Check to move around while staying invisible. Note that this power will not activate under direct observation. To avoid the notice of other vampires with Sense the Unseen (Auspex 1), roll Wits + Obfuscate. To maintain stealth after drawing attention to yourself or while preparing a surprise attack, roll Wits + Stealth.
  • Oblivion 1/5
    • Shadow Cloak: You can subtly influence the surrounding shadows to either mask your appearance or appear more sinister, adding two dice to Stealth rolls and Intimidation rolls against mortals.
  • Potence 1/5
    • Lethal Body: Your unarmed attacks deal Aggravated Health damage to mortals and ignore one level of body armor per level of Potence if you so desire.
  • Presence 1/5
    • Awe: When this power is active, anyone in your presence will find their attention inexplicably drawn to you. While this power doesn't cause rapt infatuation, it is still strong enough to sway the minds of most mortals. Add dice equal to your Presence rating to pools involving your Persuasion or Performance skills. Charisma rolls may also benefit on a case-by-case basis. Anyone aware that they're being affected can try to resist by rolling against your Manipulation + Presence.
  • Protean 1/5
    • Eyes of the Beast: You can will your eyes to gleam a supernatural red, ignoring any sight penalties imposed by darkness, mundane or otherwise. The inhuman appearance of your eyes also grants you a two-dice bonus to intimidate mortals.
Plots and Schemes
  • Internal Reformist: You believe that you can make the Ivory Tower better from within. While the Anarchs' violent exit from the Camarilla meant losing the closest thing the sect had to a reformist wing, that doesn't mean you can't begin the change at home. Perhaps you and other like-minded Kindred could remind Prince Jackson, once the son of civil rights activists, that there is more to ruling than consolidating power and crushing dissidents.
  • Si Vis Pacem…: There is no shortage of threats facing the Kindred who call the Great American City home. You fear a second War of Chicago is not a question of if but when. Thus, you have begun preparing to defend your fair city against foes like nihilistic Kindred, raging Lupines, and of course, the Second Inquisition.
  • American Legion: Though it's been years since you got your DD-214, part of you will always be a soldier of the United States. With hunter groups like Night's Cross recruiting disaffected veterans, you've formed a new corporation, Crossguard Security, to help keep Chicago's veterans off the streets.
  • Path of Illumination: If kine and Kindred are to live in harmony one night, then vampires must find a reliable way to control their Bestial urges. To that end, you've joined other like-minded Kindred in Chicago to form the "Diamond Library" - a group of vampires dedicated to documenting their collective efforts to discover the truth behind the mystical state of Golconda.
Backgrounds
  • Hound of the Camarilla (Status 3)
    Prince Jackson has appointed you to assist Damien, the Sheriff of Chicago, in keeping the peace and enforcing the Traditions of the Ivory Tower. You wield authority equivalent to an elder's when on official Camarilla business.
  • River North Townhouse (Haven 3, Herd 2/2)
    A historic mansion located in one of the most fashionable neighborhoods on Chicago's North Side that once belonged to Prince Jackson. While inside the haven, Artie gains a three-dice bonus to sense danger. Artie can also feed from members of his staff, slaking up to two Hunger per week without needing to go out and hunt.
  • Basement Studio (Haven 1)
    Hidden Armory
    While most humans would try to avoid living in a cramped and moldy space like this, the lack of exposure to the sun benefits your nocturnal existence. Though you've since moved out, you've renewed your lease in case there's an emergency. While inside the haven, Artie gains a bonus die to sense danger. The apartment also has room to secure the following firearms from discovery:
    • Glock 34 (Pistol): Adds three damage to successful Firearms attack rolls. Two attacks per reload.
    • FN SCAR-H (Battle Rifle): Adds three damage to successful Firearms attack rolls. Two attacks per reload.
      • FN MK 13 (Grenade Launcher): Can fire sharpened wooden stakes retrofitted from regular baton rounds in addition to 40mm grenades.
  • Art Collection (Resources 3/3)
    Your recent works have sold at auction for high prices, meaning you can officially consider yourself a rich man. Your starving artist days are behind you now. Let's hope that some hunter or rival at court won't take it all away from you.
  • Chicago Artists (Contacts 3, Fame 2, Influence 1)
    You know other artists with a presence in the local art scene, and they know you. They're willing to share what they know with you and get your work featured in high-end art galleries. Given your status as a rising star in Chicago's art world, prominent artists, art gallery owners, and museum curators will meet with you if given prior notice.
  • Crossguard Security Corporation (Herd 1/1, Allies 6 - Effectiveness 3, Reliability 3)
    What was once an ad-hoc group of willing vessels has become an organized private security force led by Eleanor Chowdhury. Aside from supplying you with blood, four of your most trusted subordinates act as your bodyguards.
  • Boon from Sir Olaf (Boon 1)
    For assisting one of his pimps in getting back his "product" and showing proper deference to his station, the One-Eyed King of Riverdale has seen fit to bestow on you a small favor.
  • Boon from Kathy Glens (Boon 4)
    For protecting her family from the predations of Jason Newberry, Baby Chorus's lead guitar owes you a life debt.
Flaws
  • Masquerade Breacher (Dark Secret 1)
    Some of your mortal acquaintances, namely Nick and Valerie, know your true vampiric nature. Other Kindred could use this against you.
  • Debt to Annabelle Triabell (Debt 1)
    In exchange for harboring the Lasombra delegates at the Succubus Club, you owe Annabelle Triabell, Primogen of Clan Toreador, a minor boon to be called in later.
  • Debt to Araceli "Celia" Rivera (Debt 1)
    In exchange for tutoring you in Kindred politics, you owe Araceli "Celia" Rivera of Clan Lasombra a minor boon.
  • Debt to Arjun Shah (Debt 1)
    In exchange for his help expanding Crossguard Security, you owe Arjun Shah, Pater of the Cult of Mithras, a minor boon.
  • Debt to Critias (Debt 1)
    In exchange for a copy of the Book of Nod, you owe Critias, Primogen of Clan Brujah, a minor boon.
  • Debt to Damien (Debt 2)
    You've promised the Sheriff of Chicago that you'll perform a yet-unspecified service for him in the future.
  • Debt to Edith Beaubien (Debt 1)
    In exchange for helping you make contact with Sir Olaf, you owe your clanmate Edith Beaubien a minor boon.
  • Debt to Erzulie (Debt 2)
    In exchange for teaching you how to Awe onlookers, you owe Erzulie of Clan Toreador a big favor.
  • Debt to Gabriella Rudge (Debt 1)
    In exchange for her help tracking down the hunters blackmailing you and Walter Nash, you owe your clanmate Gabriella a minor boon.
  • Debt to Gengis (Debt 2)
    In exchange for helping you unlock the Celerity Discipline, you owe Rupert "Gengis" Levine of Clan Brujah a big favor.
  • Debt to Kathy Glens (Debt 1)
    In exchange for teaching you how to wield melee weapons, you owe Kathy Glens, lead guitarist of Baby Chorus, a minor boon.
  • Debt to Kevin Jackson (Debt 2)
    You have served Prince Jackson, and you will continue to be of service.
  • Debt to Thea Noel-MacCrain (Debt 1)
    In exchange for information about the delegation from Clan Lasombra, you owe Thea Noel-MacCrain of the Ministry a minor boon.
  • Debt to Wauneka (Debt 1)
    In exchange for showing you the seedy underbelly of the Windy City, you owe your clanmate Wauneka a minor boon.
  • Hunted by Night's Cross (Enemies 1)
    You've become quite the thorn in the side of this local group of hunters. Granted, they lack the reach or resources of government organizations like FIRSTLIGHT. However, they are far more able to give you personalized attention.
  • Hunted by the Second Inquisition (Enemies 2)
    Federal law enforcement is out hunting vampires with assault rifles and incendiary weapons. Take care not to end up in their crosshairs.
  • Prey Exclusion (Nonconsenting)
    You refuse to prey without asking explicit permission to take blood. If forced to do so, gain Stains on your Humanity tracker.
  • Repulsive
    The curse of Clan Nosferatu subtracts two dice from Social rolls where physical appearance is a factor, like first meetings or attempts to get laid. The Clan Bane also prevents you from increasing your rating in the Looks Merit. Attempts to disguise yourself as a normal-looking human suffer a penalty equal to your Bane Severity.
Mortal Connections
  • Nick Delacruz (Potential Retainers 3)
    Your older brother was perhaps the first person to support your creative endeavors. As an auditing manager for a local accounting firm, Nick is in an excellent position to feed you intel on his clients.
  • Eleanor Chowdhury (Potential Retainers 3)
    After serving in the US Army as a staff officer, Eleanor Chowdhury left an executive role at Sunburst Computers to work for you as CEO of Crossguard Security. While Major Chowdhury has never fired a shot in anger, her extensive experience in the private sector has given her negotiation and computer skills that you could leverage if you let her in your vampiric secret.
  • Valerie Arnold (Influence 1)
    Your old friend from the Army has embarked on a civilian career of helping veterans at a local nonprofit. Helping her out has introduced you to local politicians willing to hear you out if you make an appointment. Aside from her connections to Chicago's military community giving her access to valuable information and allies, Valerie is also not half-bad with a gun.
Kindred Relationships
  • Cedrick Calhoun
    I must keep a careful eye on them.
    As Primogen of Clan Nosferatu, Calhoun feels obliged to look out for you. While he's impressed that you got an in with Annabelle, he's also too preoccupied with other matters to leverage that connection. Perhaps all three of you could benefit if you were to take the first step.
  • Annabelle Triabell
    He's shown some promise – for a Sewer Rat, anyway.
    In exchange for being part of her entourage, the Primogen of Clan Toreador brokers your artwork to buyers. While she may not value you as highly as a fellow Rose, loyal and capable service could change her opinion.
  • Kevin Jackson (Mawla 5)
    Proof that my way of running the show works.
    The Prince of Chicago believes it's the hard work of Kindred like you that will make his domain the North American crown jewel of the Camarilla. His favor grants you the support of his criminal empire, access to his legal areas of interest, and the right to Embrace childer.
  • Damien (Mawla 4)
    Solid backup.
    The Sheriff of Chicago is pleased with your recent appointment. Most of the Prince's appointees are more diplomats than warriors, so someone who can handle themself in a fight is a welcome addition to the crew. Maybe in a few years, you'll be ready to replace Damien as Sheriff so he can return to Baby Chorus full-time.
  • Wauneka
    Former soldiers should stick together.
    Wauneka respects you as a fellow Army vet turned Nosferatu. If you want to find your smelly clanmate, you'll need to visit the tent city on Lake Shore Drive.
  • Thea Noel-MacCrain
    They could be a good connection.
    Your association with Annabelle is something Thea has noted with approval. If you want to experience the most fucked-up, morally turgid night out on the town of your entire life, ask Thea to be your guide.
  • Noah "Flyboy" Grewal
    We did business once.
    While your connections to the Nosferatu and the Toreador Primogen are noteworthy, Flyboy doesn't quite see a direct link between you and his ambitions for O'Hare. Still, you at least know where to find him if you need to.
  • Charles "Crook" Dawson
    Oh, we're going to have so much fun together.
    Crook is looking forward to cashing in your favor. He has plans for Chicago, and he hopes you'll be able to assist him. He'll be seeing you soon.
  • Rupert "Gengis" Levine (Mawla 2)
    Two-Face is alright once you get to know them.
    In recognition of what you've done for him, Gengis has decided to embrace what he calls his "bipartisan sensibilities." His close ties to the aging punk scene in Chicago and the Latin Kings gang, not to mention his status among the Chicago Anarchs, could be helpful should your opinion of Prince Jackson's regime begin to sour.
  • Sierra van Burrace (Mawla 2)
    My closest ally at court.
    Clan Lasombra's ambassador to Prince Jackson's court has formed a…personal alliance with you. While your relationship isn't public or even that serious (for now, at least), know that you'll always have a warm bed at the Diamond Yama.
  • Rosa Hernandez
    He's a good listener.
    The Primogen of Clan Gangrel once gave you some advice on the Animalism Discipline and told you how to kill werewolves. Maybe you could learn more from her if you accompanied her on a hunt for the Lupines.
  • Bronwyn
    A promising Kindred.
    Bronwyn knows you're why she is now the Primogen of Chicago's Malkavians. Should you wish to help her expand her spy network or the Circulatory System, you need only ask.
  • Talley
    They're good to have around in a fight.
    Talley knows you can handle a violent situation involving other Kindred and matters of politics and diplomacy. Sierra can help you find her sire if you need his help.
  • Critias
    He shows some promise.
    While it's too early to say, it's clear to Critias that you aren't just some mindless Sewer Rat. If you're interested in learning more from him, stop by one of his classes at the University of Chicago.
  • Sir Olaf
    A means to an end.
    The self-styled One-Eyed King thinks of you less as a vampire and more as an undead telephone he can use to reach the Sewer Rats of Chicago. Perhaps aiding him in his quest to expand his domain in Riverdale will cause him to reconsider his opinion.
  • Araceli "Celia" Rivera (Mawla 1)
    They've been helpful so far.
    While she's still unsure of her place in Kindred society, Celia does appreciate the help you've given her. Her family connections to the Pulso del Mundo multimedia empire could prove an invaluable way to influence Spanish speakers.
  • Gabriella Rudge
    They're pretty cool.
    Known to her online following as "Sugary Popcorn," the Hound that handles the domain's cybersecurity feels a sense of kinship with you because of the similarities between your respective manifestations of the Clan curse. Should you wish to deepen this bond, she hangs out in various cybercafés throughout Chicago.
  • Alexa Santos
    The Prince could've done worse for a new Hound.
    Your new partner isn't exactly enthused to be babysitting the new puppy. However, it's a staple of the buddy cop genre to have the relationship between the two protagonists get off to a rough start before shared adversity brings them together. Should you wish to deepen this connection, Alexa will gladly introduce you to other people within Chicago's LGBT community.
  • Erzulie
    They're wasted on the Ivory Tower.
    The founder of the Blood Disco believes you'd fit right in among the House of Lilith. Should you ever learn that there's more to undeath besides obeying the whims of some Camarilla Prince, seek the Mother-Above-All out at Red No. 5.
  • Kathy Glens
    They seem trustworthy.
    The lead guitarist of Baby Chorus considers the Sheriff of Chicago to be like a younger brother. Since she can't always be there to look out for Damien, she's relying on you to do so in her stead.
  • Bobby "The Hurricane" Weatherbottom
    They've got some good ideas.
    While the Chicago Camarilla's technical mastermind appreciates your efforts in coordinating the Diamond Library's research into Golconda, your close ties to Prince Jackson are a cause for concern. Still, he hopes you'll be on the right side when the time comes.
  • Erichtho
    A new perspective.
    While she didn't expect to walk alongside a Nosferatu neonate on the path to Golconda, it's not a wholly unwelcome surprise. She prays that your youthful enthusiasm for seeking Golconda doesn't cause you to lose your way by accident.
  • Rebekah
    There's potential there.
    The Inconnu Monitor of Chicago has taken notice of your efforts to study Golconda. Her mentorship could prove invaluable in learning to control the Beast - if you can find her.
  • Eleanor Chang
    Can they help keep my family safe?
    You've made a decent first impression on the thin-blooded stay-at-home mom, though she can't help but fear for her loved ones. While she's now taking night classes at Naomi Stewart's school for fledglings, it should be easy for you to reach out and strengthen the connection.
  • Arjun Shah
    A promising candidate.
    The Pater of the Milwaukee Mithraeum respects a warrior who's taken it upon themself to lead their fellow warriors. Perhaps one night, your business relationship can evolve into true brotherhood under the guiding light of Lord Mithras.
  • Adze
    A chained dog.
    While Adze is not unsympathetic to you as a person, your affiliation with Chicago's ruling regime makes him reluctant to ally with you. However, once you realize that the Ivory Tower isn't all it's cracked up to be, there could be a place for you among the Blood Disco.
Available Experience: 1
 
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If you guys have any questions about quest mechanics, Artie's character sheet, or what would have happened had different choices been made, please feel free to ask! I love answering your questions. This goes especially for newcomers like @Ultrackius, who I don't believe has voted before.
 
@Rogue Attican
I have two questions I'd lick to pick your brain about.
1) How would you have handled things if we had a Sabbot clan like Tzimisce, Lasombre, or Caitif.
2) Do Kindred have a way to test what Generation we are? I was wondering about but figured it was a mystery.
 
How would you have handled things if we were part of a Sabbat clan like the Tzimisce, the Lasombra, or the Caitiff?
If the combination of Disciplines you guys chose meant that you were part of a Sabbat clan, you'd likely have been found by one of the Anarchs, as opposed to a member of the Camarilla like Calhoun. Instead of attending Elysium at the Succubus Club, you would have been taken to meet members of the Anarch Movement in Chicago, like Anita Wainwright and Duncan MacTavish.

Do Kindred have a way to test what Generation we are? I was wondering about it but figured it was a mystery.
Clan Tremere can perform a Blood Sorcery ritual to trace a Kindred's lineage but most vampires don't care how far removed you are from the original vampire unless you're a powerful Methuselah of the fourth generation. If Artie had been a Ventrue, Prince Jackson might have sent them to the local chantry to determine their exact lineage, given the importance the Clan of Kings places on such things. On the other hand, the other clans are more than happy to leave some things unknown if it means avoiding the Warlocks.
 
Did our choices affect our physical, mental, and social stats? If so, how? If not, how did you determine them?
Your choices did affect Artie's attributes. I assigned them to be "optimal" based on the skills and Disciplines you guys picked out for them. After all, it would kind of suck to have supernatural invisibility only for Artie to be a total klutz, right?
 
Pave the Way 2.01
When Chicago's Kindred hear of an urgent meeting to discuss the Prince's business, they usually see it taking place inside one of the shadowy boardrooms so often favored by the Blue Bloods, or in a private room at the Succubus Club. Only a few would imagine the local O'Tolley's fast food joint.

As you step inside O'Tolley's, you see Sheriff Damien already sitting at one of the booths. Tonight, the normally laid-back Damien is a bundle of barely concealed nerves, whose right leg is tapping restlessly against the floor. On the red plastic table in front of him, next to the tray holding his untouched burger and fries, is a bulky, brown-paper envelope.

As you make eye contact with Damien, you lift your chin in acknowledgment before getting in line to avoid arousing suspicion. After ordering a combo meal and a large drink to go, you walk over to Damien's booth and slide onto the bench across from him. As soon as you're seated, Damien slides the envelope over to you before standing up from his seat to leave. "The Prince only requested that I ensure the envelope reached you. Keep the burner phone inside the envelope handy. It's how I'll stay in contact with you. Are we clear?"

You nod, and Damien nods back. "Enjoy the rest of your evening."

As Damien exits the building, you open the envelope to find the burner phone he mentioned. It's a shitty Motorola made out of chunky silver plastic. The hinge of the prepaid flip phone audibly snaps as you flip it open, and you find that there are no phone numbers saved on the device. One-way communication it is, then. In addition to the burner phone, you also find a couple of paper documents...

-​

My trusted kin,

I write to you with complete confidence - confidence you will remain silent about the information in this letter and confidence you will perform this task competently and swiftly.

Tomorrow night, a delegation will arrive at O'Hare. You are to safely guard and transport them from the airport to the third floor of the Succubus Club the night after at 9:00 PM - no later. On the night of their arrival, it is your task to keep them somewhere safe, bringing them to the Succubus Club on the night following. I should not have to mention I expect the delegation to arrive at the Succubus Club intact and well-rested.

Our visitors consist of two individuals of our kind, a small-framed younger East Asian woman with long, dark hair and a bald, bearded older white gentleman who I choose to describe as "unkempt." Meet the delegation at 10:00 PM outside Herrick's Grocers in Terminal Five, in the arrivals area. A car will be ready for you at the Terminal Five parking lot, in zone H22, the registration and keys for which are also in this envelope, though you may wish to arrange an additional car of your own.

Ensure certain troublemakers from within Kindred society do not disrupt your task. I am confident you are aware of whom I speak, but for clarity's sake, I have enclosed files Damien compiled. Use the night you receive my message to subtly kill the fire before it begins. Do not cause unnecessary trouble by leaving stains on the ground. Merely subdue potential issues, temporarily, for your own and the city's sake. I don't want anyone feeling like they need to cause a rebellion due to your actions.

Payment for the successful completion of this task is guaranteed and in keeping with Clan Ventrue's generosity.

Sincerely,
Prince Kevin Jackson


-​

NAME: Noah Grewal

ALIAS: "Flyboy"

BACKGROUND: This Kindred followed in Tyler's footsteps with his interest in the city's air-travel system. He believes O'Hare is his domain and claims to control everything entering and leaving Chicago via flight. He will undoubtedly raise questions about our guests and their business and perhaps prevent them from passing security, though we suspect they have methods of bypassing mundane checks. He has influence over the Department of Aviation's executive team, specifically Felicity Miller.

-


NAME: Charles Dawson

ALIAS: "Crook"

BACKGROUND: When Charles becomes bored, unnecessary drama occurs, and we believe he heard of this coming delegation. Therefore, he will undoubtedly do whatever he can to draw unwanted attention and disrupt proceedings. He will most likely send out thugs to spy on you and sabotage your mission just to prove his relevance in the city. He will be around Crooks' Lounge near Rogers Park, as they are currently renovating.


NAME: Rupert Levine

ALIAS: "Gengis"

BACKGROUND: If you haven't lived under a rock for the past few years, you would know about Gengis and his alternative methods of dealing with his hatred for the Camarilla. He would happily go out of his way to release the Prince's hold on power. When he hears about a foreign delegation arriving, and I suspect he will due to his high status among the local Anarchs, rest assured that Gengis will have eyes on the airports. I cannot say where he is at the moment, as his movements are completely unreliable. An informant tells me he has a haven on the Gold Coast at 126 E. Cedar Street, but security will be tight.

-​

As you fill your drink at the soda fountain, you think through the various courses of action available to you. There are only so many hours in the night, leaving you with no way to check off every box on tonight's to-do list.

Of course, you could always do as Prince Jackson commands and head off the troublemakers. However, if there's one thing you've learned, it's that blindly following a superior's orders is just asking to be unpleasantly surprised. Good intel will help you understand exactly what you're in for. In any case, taking the time to sketch out a plan now will help you make the most of the rest of it.

Firstly, there's Flyboy and O'Hare International Airport. Though Prince Jackson's letter assumes that the delegation likely has a way to bypass security, you are not so sanguine. For all you know, the Second Inquisition's hunters are manning the TSA checkpoints, lying in wait to destroy some unlucky lick as they take their shoes off. Gaining Flyboy's approval might be the only way to avoid such a flagrant violation of the Masquerade.

Secondly, there's Crook, whose name recognize as that of a fellow Nosferatu. However, the only thing you know about him is that he's always smiling and singing XTC's 1977 hit, "Spinning Top". Otherwise, you have no idea what's going inside that head of his.

However, you have a feeling that Calhoun might be of some assistance in dealing with Crook. As Primogen of your clan, he could give you greater insight into your clanmate. You'd also have to seek his permission to shelter the delegates inside the Nosferatu warren. While it's not exactly five-star accommodation, Chicago's warren is perhaps the safest and most secure place in the city.

Then there's Gengis to worry about. The Gold Coast is one of Chicago's wealthiest neighborhoods, filled with high-rises, expensive rowhouses, and the odd historic mansion. What would a leather-clad punk like Gengis be doing in a place like that? Still, the haven on East Cedar Street is the only lead you have on his location.

Then there are the Kindred-run nightlife spots where you can gather information. Any vampire in Chicago worth the name will stop by the Succubus Club at some point during their unlife, making it a useful place to meet knowledgeable people.

Then there's the club's owner to consider. Annabelle's position as the Camarilla's de facto Keeper of Elysium means that she may know something about the Prince's guests. You could probably also get her permission to allow the delegates inside the Succubus Club early, even if it means owing her a small favor.

Aside from the Succubus Club, there's the Red No. 5, run by a coterie of Kindred who call themselves the Blood Disco. You know that the club is popular among Chicago's LGBTQ community, though you've never had the opportunity to pay a visit. Perhaps tonight is the time to change that...

Once again, vote as many times as you like. The top FOUR choices will get a write-up.

[] [TASK] I need assurances from Flyboy that O'Hare won't be the site of a massive Masquerade breach.
[] [TASK] Aside from intel about the coming delegation, I could use Calhoun's experience with Crook.
[] [TASK] I should straighten out Crook before he tries to gun the delegates down, Al Capone style.
[] [TASK] Visiting Gengis's haven on the Gold Coast is the only hope I have of finding the Anarch.
[] [TASK] Let's pay a visit to the Succubus Club and see if Annabelle is willing to help me out.
[] [TASK] One of the Kindred at Red No. 5 might know something that the Camarilla doesn't.
 
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[X] I need assurances from Flyboy that O'Hare won't be the site of a massive Masquerade breach.
[X] I should straighten out Crook before he tries to gun the delegates down, Al Capone style.
[X] Visiting Gengis's haven on the Gold Coast is the only hope I have of finding the Anarch.
[X] Let's pay a visit to the Succubus Club and see if Annabelle is willing to help me out.


Take care of each personally + leverage our Annabelle connection
 
I don't think you need task tags for single-subject votes? Sure thing though.

[X] [TASK] I need assurances from Flyboy that O'Hare won't be the site of a massive Masquerade breach.
[X] [TASK] I should straighten out Crook before he tries to gun the delegates down, Al Capone style.
[X] [TASK] Visiting Gengis's haven on the Gold Coast is the only hope I have of finding the Anarch.
[X] [TASK] Let's pay a visit to the Succubus Club and see if Annabelle is willing to help me out.
 
[X] [TASK] I need assurances from Flyboy that O'Hare won't be the site of a massive Masquerade breach.
[X] [TASK] I should straighten out Crook before he tries to gun the delegates down, Al Capone style.
[X] [TASK] Visiting Gengis's haven on the Gold Coast is the only hope I have of finding the Anarch.
[X] [TASK] Let's pay a visit to the Succubus Club and see if Annabelle is willing to help me out.
 
I don't think you need task tags for single-subject votes?
Normally, no. However, I'm asking you to pick multiple options, and Sufficient Velocity is only registering your choices as a collective. If I want to tally the vote counts for individual choices, it seems I have to categorize them. This is my first quest, so I'm still learning the ins and outs of this website's functions.
 
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