Ernst Hirschler

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*One of the few downsides of becoming a vampire, under the aegis of being removed from a "natural" state of existence, is becoming downright offensive to animals. As the canine gradually realizes just what sort of a rider this random horse carries, it would seem that no amount of words can ease its growing fury.
Hungarian dogs are said to be relatively calm and temperate...
But this, too, bursts out barking, with a mixture of fear, disgust and anger, slowly backing away.
Not good...*
_________________

[Dronaw]

<Finally I find a suitable place to refresh myself and now this dog tries to ruin everything. I must try to calm it but if I cannot maybe it's better to leave. Or just try to kill it... unfortunatelly.>

Awe (Char+Exp)

Dobás:

Eredeti dobás sorozat: 6d10 Rögzített 10-Sided Dice Results: 1, 1, 2, 5, 9, 3 (Total = 21)

Char

Dobás:

Eredeti dobás sorozat: 3d10 Rögzített 10-Sided Dice Results: 5, 7, 3 (Total = 15)

*My voice is calm, I don't make any fling. I also try to set my horse at ease*

-/Hun/ It's okay. Calm down, there's no need to worry. Just lie down and relax.

*I sit still on my horse and examine the dog reactions.*
_________________
Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*The Komtur receives this request for leaving the group with a frown, but nods approvingly regardless.*

-/Ger/ You are brave to manage your merry affairs when dawn is at our heels. Perhaps too brave. Make sure you hurry. If you no longer find us here, gallop to the camp.

*Finding a serf's hut in the outskirts of Buda is certainly no difficult task. The only factor that makes it somewhat harder is the mountainous terrain on this side that supports little agriculture. Does it matter? Of course it does.
Shepherds won't do.
Only the plough-pullers will.
Therefore, Ernst needs to ride quite a while in order to find his newest "friend", happening upon a small gathering of mud houses, knit together in a tight little community. There are various open spaces nearby that suggest farming, and that's all he needs for now.
Unfortunately though, even before he could possibly enter the outermost dwelling, the scent of his horse riles the senses of one of the dogs nearby. Although the large, long-haired Hungarian plains dog doesn't start barking just yet, it comes closer, sniffing the horse and its strange-smelling owner and growling suspiciously.
Time to act. Fast.*
_________________

[Dronaw]

*I only reply with a little smile to the Komtur's compliment but inside I'm happy and proud. As we head back to the external gate I draw myself up to show everyone that I'm right at the side of the Komtur. And this is not only addressed to the locals but also for the other cainites. We reach the crossroad but it seems our scouts hadn't made it.*

<Where the hell are they? Did the wolves tricked us? They didn't seemed like that and Eufemia checked them. If Anselm trusts them I must have no doubt. Maybe Sophia finally showed her true colours? But Albrecht and the wolves could surely kill her easily. Or is she part of that Pagan cult? Well, it's not me who is leading this group, let this be the Komtur's headache... So we have an hour to rest. I should visit my fellow tillers to ease my thirstiness and heal my scars.>

*As the others begin the spread I turn to Anselm*

- /Ger/ Anselm, I need to visit one of my friends not too far.

*I lick my upper lip and my eye-tooth*

- /Ger/ I'll be back in at the most half an hour.

*If he nods I ride to one of the huts near and heal myself before I drink my needed blood. After I finished I ride back to the camp.*

+1 health, +7 blood point

* I saw the separated groups and I feel the respect in their glances. I ride slowly to the Hungarians and dismount. I hope they will be glad that I prevented the destruction of Vencel. Maybe they are the good ones to start to build up my reputation - just the same as I had to do in a new city before I could trade with them.*

- /Hun/ Hail to you, fellow soldiers! 'Tho I was here many times before and I scouted the surroundings, unfortunately I still don't know well your country. What do you think about this Pagan group? Where could they hide? I know some cave up to the mountains but I don't think they are big enough. And in the cities... well I think your mortal kink or Vencel would crush them there.

*My tone is inquisitive I mean no offense.*
_________________
Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*Vencel doesn't seem to think there's a need to add anything and simply sits there with his head held high, deep in thought as his "visitors" leave.
On the other hand, his Seneschal, Roland dashes forward to see the crusaders out, followed by the twin Brujah.
Zelios fades back into the shadows.
Liseta fires a broad smirk at the Komtur as he passes by, her gaze meeting that of Ernst too for a fleeing moment as she turns to leave.
And Izydor, of course, keeps grinning his all-knowing grin as he just stands there, arms folded.
Not even bothering to wait until they're fully out of the hall, Anselm comments.*

-/Ger/ A case well-presented, brother. Now this will silence any who question the decision to bring you along.

*As they reach the external gates again, the guard captain attempts to salvage what little face he's able to.*

-/Lat/ Sire, I'm sorry about th-...

-/Lat/ God will forgive. See to it that our people are able to come and go freely. Your Prince and I decree.

-/Lat/ As you wish...

*The company is escorted back to the fragile wooden bridge, which is crossed with more care taken this time, after the compulsory social bootlicking of the Seneschal.
The plan was to link up with the Lupines and the two unfortunates left with them, but when the Kindred arrive back at the crossroads, they find nobody there.
After a quick examination, it'd seem they never made it there to begin with.*

-/Ger/ We wait a little more here. The camp is not far and sunrise is still a good hour away. Only God knows what could possibly keep them for so long.

*After the proclamation of Anselm, the vampires scatter into smaller groups of conversation, some of them choosing to dismount, others not. The Hungarians remain separated, as per usual, and so do the actual Black Cross knights, Anselm, Friderich and Gotzstaf, with the latter two complaining aloud about their unwelcome reception in Hungary.
Eufemia, Bulgarus, Thiadward and Decimus Flavius form the largest group excluding ghouls, exchanging their views about many topics, chiefly the Lupine encounter and their fresh court experiences.
Finally, as per usual, the Brujah Reginleaf remains alone, dismounting and standing to face the wilderness in the west and south.
None invite Ernst just now, giving him the freedom of association, although curious glances are cast at him from every group, and with much more respect this time.
Perhaps it'd be time to reap the harvest.*

Ambience
_________________

[Dronaw]

<And now again! Recently he wanted to crush and march in and when I save the day again from this hothead warrior he steps forward harvesting the fruit of my work.>

*I'm a little disappointed but also very proud of myself as I could solve this problem in a peaceful way and I also protected my Sire's interests.*

<Eufemia! I could bet on it that she would monitor everything we do as she did at the wolves. Well, it's not a problem, at least I know that I could trick even a Prince in Vencel's caliber. Of course I needed fully armed cruseders behind me, but that won't annull my perfect negotiation tactics. >

* I listen silently the Komtur's words but never stop investigating the others in the room. When he turns around I try to walk next to him or just a little behind to still keep up the appearance that I am one of the leaders. As the Gypsy kid asks us I turn my head towards him and give him a soothing smile for a second then follow the Komtur.*
_________________
Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*Vencel nods, before raising his head high, giving everyone a defiant glance. He might be in a disadvantageous bargaining position right now, but he rules here and he knows it. His pride is not shaken in the least.
There is a certain mumbling in the crusader ranks, before Anselm turns back, glancing at Eufemia. She simply nods, with a faint, awkward smile. Then finally, he steps forward, his boots making a heavy sound that echoes throughout the halls.
He inclines his head to Ernst, before turning to Vencel.*

-/Lat/ Thank you, brother. Now, good Prince. My name is Anselm von Heidenauer, Komtur vom Kreuze of the Black Cross and leader of this expedition.

*Recognition can be seen in the eyes of Vencel, it seems he might have heard of him before.*

-/Lat/ I am grateful for your cooperation as well as your truth-speaking. These are virtues that are beginning to fade in these troubled times.

*Izydor lets out a snicker. Earning himself a devastating look from Gyula in the process.*

-/Lat/ Our forces here are the vanguard of the Third Crusade, and our work is to clear the way from anything that might pose a threat to its passing. The Ventrue armies are not following the initial crusader route, in fact, they will go through your city, Prince Vencel. You will need to be prepared and we will help you with it. Continue to cooperate and you can expect further recognition within the Clan.

*A slight pause, letting his words settle in.*

-/Lat/ The hour is growing late now, so we better depart. A smaller host will arrive by the morrow to start the investigation. Please assist them in every way you can. It is of great mutual interest.

-/Lat/ Very well. It shall be so.

-/Lat/ Until then.

*Anselm turns around, beckoning everyone else with him and starting to move out. While the Crusaders leave, the Gypsy kid flashes another smirk and boldly speaks up, towards the Komtur and Ernst.*

-/Ger/ So... ya gonna do something about these cultist weirdos, or wha'?

*Von Heidenauer doesn't even pause for a second.*
_________________

[Dronaw]

* Now it's my turn to raise eyebrow and be surprised. Of course I try to hide it and give an omniscient face. I could imagine an other vampire trying to overthrow Vencel but a Pagan cult led by Cainites? And they believe in that Havnor? Very strange. I nod to Vencel as if I finally get the truth I've already known.*

-/Lat/ I'm not so happy to hear these news but at least my comrades heard from you what I was excepting. I hoped that this new Pagan cult is not true tho' the evidences made it presumptive.

*This little lie would make the story perfect. I'm finished, I saved the day and my self-confident got another charge. All I need is a nice ending to give Vencel the opportunity to place himself high again.*

-/Lat/ Thank you for your answers, Prince Vencel, rightful ruler of the Hungarians, protector of the Crusader.

*I wait his answer if any then turn to the Komtur. I speak with him as equal and this may harsh his feelings but I hope he understands how negotiations goes and we have to keep up appearance.*

-/Lat/ Are you satisfied with the news? Do you want to know anything else?
_________________
Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*Whatever his plans might have been, Ernst's words certainly stopped the Komtur, prompting him to let out a silent "hmm..." of appreciation. Friderich and Gotzstaf share a surprised look. The bodyguards assume a heavy, accusing frown against Ernst, while the pupils of the Prince himself widen in mild surprise. Nothing else gives a sign of his reactions, but this should be plenty for the young Ventrue to know he's succeeded.*

-/Lat/ Please. You cannot possibly believe such low accusations of even lower rabble? Gentlemen, there is no need to threaten me in my very halls. Whoever said that I wished your doom was lying; I never even was aware you'd be arriving tonight. However...

*He makes an uncomfortable flinch in his seat, and his eyes betray he's not exactly the happiest to talk about this.*

-/Lat/ We have a slight problem you should probably know of. Nothing that would hamper the Crusade, but an annoyance of some sort, never-the-less.

*Anselm now raises an eyebrow and tilts his head, listening very intently.*

-/Lat/ It began several months ago, around last spring. A small number of locals started disappearing each week. Corpses were found; some of them drained dry, others flayed of their skin, and yet others having been desecrated in both ways. A filthy, Pagan cult appeared, which is nothing unusual in these parts, for these people have not yet fully embraced the Christian way.

*At this point, Csongor growls out in anger, baring his teeth and moving forward, but swiftly held back by the others. Multiple others.*

-/Lat/ ...they started worshipping a false god named "Havnor", lord of war and thunder, promising the peasants and craftsmen a return to the old ways of plunder and conquest, defeating "the demon of the land", by which the heretical scum, we assume, mean either the Sacred Faith, or their just feudal duties. Whatever the case, these vermin are obviously Cainite-backed, and we've already been able to kill and capture a number of Low Clan rabble associated with this cult.

*He grimaces, looking Ernst straight in the eye now.*

-/Lat/ None talked though. They embraced their Final Deaths laughing.
_________________

[Dronaw]

*The step of the Komtur reminds me that I not only have to be succesful but also fast.*

<So the seneschal is surprised. This is good but not enough. If Vencel is moving against the Crusade he might not want to inform everyone in his court. I have to be quicker.>

- /Lat/ Sure we took a few. Tho' some of them met their final death during the interrogation all they claim was that you are their master. This would be enough for my comrades - I point my hand to the Komtur - but I wanted more proof. So we came here to ask you. Some of our best interrogators still with the remaining prisoners and I'm sure they will get everything out of them. But we have no time. So please, great prince, tell us, will the crusade be safe to march through your lands? Do you have any idea who may want to attack us in your name?

*I hope this lie will give us the point. If he moves against the crusade he might fear of what the prisoners know. So he has to act now using surprise - or he might think he can surprise us. And if he is with us, he must give us another enemy quickly. I look at the Komtur and show him with my eyes that my hand moved near my pommel. I'm ready if needed.*
_________________
Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*The keen eyes of the shrewd merchant do not fail him. While talking, Ernst remains well-able to concentrate on the various reactions, gestures and expressions of local Cainites, drawing certain conclusions.
The Seneschal is almost certainly genuinely surprised. The Ravnos is still enjoying himself over the tension in the air. The Brujah are battle-ready, but it's unlikely they know anything. They've always been so. And the others... the others are either unreadable, or completely neutral so far.
It is Vencel himself who remains the greatest mystery, unsurprisingly. One could quickly swear from his words and mannerisms that the man is innocent, but knowing his skills and expertise, and also judging from a faint hint in his tone, it comes down to Ernst as if he'd know many things yet he wouldn't be all that happy to talk about.*

-/Lat/ I see. Did you manage to take any prisoners, or interrogate some of the defeated rabble?

*The Komtur slowly steps closer. Perhaps he's getting impatient, perhaps not, but he's very likely to intervene shortly. Ever the man of fast explanations.*
_________________

[Dronaw]

*I did so many negotiations before. Albeit this is a kind of audience the same tactics must be used. During my speech I investigate the surroundings and the other negotiators. I try to inspect every detail which can tell me that someone is angry, happy, relaxed, telling the truth or lies. I can also find out its weaknesses. I know I mastered this techniques and I am very assured in myself. *

int+sub+spec(weakness detection)

Dobás:

Eredeti dobás sorozat: 7d10 Rögzített 10-Sided Dice Results: 2, 8, 8, 7, 10, 8, 3 (Total = 46)

10s again

Dobás:

Eredeti dobás sorozat: 1d10 Rögzített 10-Sided Dice Results: 10

and again :)

Dobás:

Eredeti dobás sorozat: 1d10 Rögzített 10-Sided Dice Results: 7

- /Lat/ As I can remember there were Gangrel, Tzimisce, Nosferatu and others unfortunately I don't remember. It was like an interclan revelry.

*As I speak I try to follow every little move of Vencel. Anything may provide me with information about the current situation. I don't tell him for the present that we had little time to investigate the attackers and the corpses gave us nothing to rely on. My short answers may seem that I don't tell everything I know but that's what I want. If Vencel thinks we know more than we know de facto that makes our position better.*
_________________
Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*Of the rest of the court, most don't exactly pay Ernst the attention he thinks he'd deserve in a situation like this. Roland looks at him only when he begins to speak, Liseta eyes the Komtur all along, and the bodyguards grip the handles of their weapons while standing threateningly in front of Friderich, Gotzstaf and Csongor. The Hungarian mercenary himself looks heavily agitated here, with hatred leaving his mind in the form of a low growl.
Only Zelios keeps his attention at Ernst from the beginning, nodding a polite nod when he stops before the throne, while Izydor shoots him a gleeful grin, baring his canine teeth.
Vencel is well-composed, handling the situation like a shrewd diplomat, his face showing nothing but a mix of outraged surprise and sorrowful empathy, but both in all due moderation.*

-/Lat/ A war-form Tzimisce, you say? What sort of clan appeared to be the rest? Surely, you can see it for the ruse it was, for neither do I command any Fiends, nor do I feel any desire to end my existence by attacking the holy army of my very own clan.

*He is confident. He is charismatic. He is in control. Maybe more so than he usually has been while handling the menial matters of a merchant. He's probably using some sort of magic to make himself appear in a more advantageous position.
But does he lie?*
_________________

[Dronaw]

*During my speech if those who come in give me a sign of knowing me I return their hail. I start my answer in a polite tone.*

- /Lat/ Wise prince, you know me well and have a clear-sight as always. I'm with the crusaders because my Sire asked it. Tho' this, Kain knows my heart, I will do everything I have to do for them.

*A little pause. This was the polite part, now my voice become harder.*

-/Lat/ We were coming to have an audition but on our way near the forest, many cainites attacked us. I didn't count their numbers, but there were so many. And also a Zulo joined the battle on their side. As they were heading towards us, they were shouting your name, they claimed that you ordered them to destroy us. We had a hard battle as we came for the audit only a handful. Although we were outnumbered we could slay them all with only minor losses.

*I finish the story. I'm not a poet and I didn't see everything during the battle. I decide not to tell about the wolves, this might be a good card in this play if we continue.*
_________________
Sunny Black

[Freiherr von Rosen]

*While Ernst speaks, gradually, one by one, the Kindred of the court also appear. Some of them are armed goons ensuring his safety, but others are high-profile Kindred of Hungary, some of whom Ernst remembers from years prior.
Roland, the Master of Slaves, a youthful, elegant Ventrue Senechal from Ernst's Generation, albeit older than him, standing dutifully at the Prince's side.
Zelios, the Master Mason, the Nosferatu architectural genius whose face, untypically of his unfortunate clan, "only" turned grey as a stone wall as a result of his Embrace. The estate and the bridge leading to it are both his handiwork.
And there is Liseta Iluminada, "the Luminous", blue-black-haired Castilian refugee in the guise of a nun whose heavy-lidded, seductive violet eyes stare as sharply at the unfolding events as ever. What is it with Clan Lasombra and exceedingly beautiful females?
Béla and Gyula, the twin Brujah bodyguards of Vencel. Despised by their own clan and watched suspiciously by Ernst's, these bearded, muscular retainers have certainly been a strange choice; but a choice brutally reliable so far.
Finally, Izydor Torenu, the Ravnos whose antics already drove Ernst mad multiple times in the past. Though nothing but a cocky Gypsy kid at first sight, the blood of Izydor is very potent, and he also makes good use of his sharp wits and trade contacts both Western and Eastern. He simply leans against a pillar now and watches on with an amused smirk.
As for Prince Vencel himself, his face turns more and more anxious, especially as the dozen vampires gather in front of him, many of them with heavily accusing gazes. For some reason, Anselm still remains in patient silence, allowing Ernst to further handle the situation, even after Vencel's reply.*

-/Lat/ I do remember you, Ernst, Childe of Klaus from Salzburg. And with all due surprise do I notice your presence among members of the Crusade that was, it seems, launched before our expectations! But an ambush, you say? How horrible!

*His tone seems genuine, although Ernst is well-aware that Kindred of his caliber could well be able to successfully manipulate him. Nevertheless, the other vampires, notably Eufemia, also appear to be content. For now.*

-/Lat/ Someone in our name, of all people, loyal and upstanding members of Clan Ventrue? Outrageous! Please, tell me exactly what happened!
_________________