2020-09-12 Camarilla Court III
Camarilla Court III
Participants: The Camarilla Court of Los Angeles Elizabeth Sveta
Storyteller: Summer Crawley Sundance
Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall ‒ Downtown Los Angeles
Date and Time: September 11, 2020 0000
Summary: Court.
Ian is already here, presupposing an entrance and forcing Crawley to be dead wrong. He's in a suit and seated in the center of the seats, sprawled out and comfortable.
Elizabeth Tanner enters in a stylish black dress, accompanied by Lunette and Meri who she directs toward some seats in the back row before she proceeds further in to join the others of Clan Toreador who have started to gather.
Nothing special today. However, in a tribute to Karner maybe, Oliver has worn blue! Okay it's probsbly just a coincidence as it was a color before Karner declared it the best. And so Oliver enters, https://liberationmush.site/liberationwiki/images/6/6f/Oliver11.jpg a smile on his features as he settles down over by Ian and the Ventrue 'ilk', taking a seat comfortably and stretching back. He does glance about though, giving a polite wave or nod should folks go ahead and look over.
As is typical for her Clan these nights, Avery arrives with several other Tremere and is dressed tonight in a simple black blouse and pale pink pencil skirt - nothing exceptionally fancy or expensive by the looks of it. She takes a few moments to look around, then turns to give Violet a small smile before moving to find a seat.
Harper enters and moves to stand a short distance from the doorway, her hands folded loosely in front of her. She watches as everyone starts to filter in, eyes going from one to the next with a slight narrowing in her gaze.
The Court has been set up in its typical fashion. The auditorium itself is lit decently with house lights that allow attendees to comfortably get to their seats. The center of the chamber has been lit more bright with downlights from above. In the center of the stage is a large wooden, high-backed chair that looks to be for the Prince. To the right, a lower wooden bench for the Seneschal. Then to either side of the throne, a number of wooden chairs with fancy crimson cushions that have Clan symbols etched upon their backs - Tremere, Ventrue, Toreador, Malkavian, Brujah, and Nosferatu.
Crawley is already situated on the stage, seated in the Seneschal's seat, the Nosferatu's gaze watches the crowd as others file inside and take their seats. He wears his typical black, drab robe, hands folded upon his lap. The Sewer Rat offers little in recognition of new arrivals, just content to wait patiently until the chamber has filled up and he can begin the official ceremonies.
Moving along behind Elizabeth, Lunette glances about briefly before she pauses when it's gestured that she and Meri go sit in.. the back. She turns her face and glances to the indicated seats, then gathers the length of her black gown and turns, moving to go take a seat where she must. Settling down, Lunette looks out over the space, watching those who enter.
Violet is in tow with Avery. She's wearing a dark green blouse with a matching pencil skirt, a violent violet blazer with matching heels and matching purse over her right shoulder. Her hair done up in a high ponytail. She adjusts her glasses before smiling in response to Avery and letting her choose her seat first.
Shelly is also one of those early birds that arrived before most of the crowd. Who even knows how long the Deputy has been hanging around, lurking, waiting and watching. For the moment, the be-blazered Deputy is sitting near the top rows, watching closely as folks trickle in.
Tonight, Summer is not wearing her characteristic smile. She enters unannounced from a door to the right of the immense pipe organ, wearing an outfit decidedly dressed-down considering her usual affinity for gowns during Court. It is nonetheless an obvious nod to her clan -- a fitted black number adorned with red roses (https://imgur.com/a/pUJaCE3) and a pair of tall black stilettos. She offers those present a delicate nod, then moves toward her empty throne. She sits, elbows poised atop the armrests and hands neatly folded in her lap. While most nights would find her either mingling before the event or waiting to be announced, tonight there is a note of stillness and quiet reflection -- her pillowy lips set in a gentle line. She shoots Crawley a meaningful look and then waits for the lights to flicker, heralding the beginning of Court.
Meri watches as Elizabeth moves off, hesitating for the briefest of moments, before she trails after Lunette and joins her in the back.
Gretchen arrives sometime near the beginning of court, her busby hat removed from her head and tucked under an arm. She takes a moment to glance around, perhaps looking for someone before her head shakes once. A small wave to Oliver before she moves off to the side in a seemingly random direction to have a seat.
When Kennedy steps out on the stage she is sharply dressed in a sleek suit, hand tailored from fine wool and an emerald vest. There's no tie, instead there's a choker that places an inch diameter rose at her throat where a tie knot would be. The rose is made from slim chips of ruby and attached to a gold and pearl chain beneath her collar. As the dark-haired Toreador moves toward her seat, bowing her head with respect to Summer as the Prince makes her way to the throne. "Your Grace," she says, adding as she passes Crawley, "Seneschal." If one is sharp eyed enough they might catch a new piece of jewelry around Kennedy's wrist with a *very* curious charm...
Tonight, Zane arrives just before court starts with Coop and Beth. Tonight he's dressed in a black-on-black suit with a black tie and polished leather shoes. Making his way towards the dais, he smiles at those he knows, waving along the way. Pointing to Shelly, he nods to Coop and Beth as they break off to sit with her. The Malkavien gets a wink as he moves to his position, bowing his head lightly to the other Primogen and Senchenal, then lower to the Prince. Unbuttoning the single button holding his suit jacket closed, he takes a seat as court kicks off.
Crawley catches Summer's gaze as the Prince nods to him and raises his hand. The lights in the room dim a few times to let those Kindred who are arriving or loitering in the wings to get to seats.
Lilena slides on into court quietly just incase she is late for some odd reason. She is dressed in a red dress that is ankle length and has some heels upon her feet. She soon will take a seat with the Ventrue clan pulling out an ipad as she settles into her seat.
Grayson is escorted in as he always is by his shadow that is Maria. Today dressed not far different than usual, a darker blue suit, a lighter blue shirt, which a mix of both in the tie. Silver tie clip and cufflinks. All freshly pressed, expensive, right down to polished shoes. Nothing out of the ordinary. He leaves his retainer at the door. Passing harper, he gives a nod and a smile. "Keeper." Then he?s moving deeper into the auditorium. There?s part of a pull that seems to want to take him towards the rest of the Ventrue and where they are seated, but he adjusts, moving towards the chair set out for him. He gives Crawley a dip of his head as he passes and Summer a bow. "Your Grace." Then takes his seat quietly, folding hands in his lap.
Sveta is taking a page from Regent Strauss' stylebook this evening with little round shades resting low on her nose. Her hair's been slicked back. She's wearing a black tracksuit, Adidas, with black stripes in lieu of the trademark white. She makes up for this elsewhere: with white hightops and white nails. She's wearing a non-descript chain necklace supporting a Petrine cross, dark lipstick, and heavy eyeshadow.
The Malkavian lightly taps the back of Harper's arm with her fist as she passes by, even though she doesn't seem to notice her otherwise, and takes brief stock of the audience.
She seems to be looking for someone.
That someone does not reveal themselves, and she angles herself onto stage and takes a seat in her Primogen's stead with an unceremonious flop.
Entering in time for court, Luke steps into the Concert Hall outfit in a nice button down shirt and khaki trousers. Forgoing the flip-flops for tonight, he is wearing a simple pair of loafers that thankfully don't announce his every step as he makes his way across the room to settle into a chair somewhere near-ish to Ian.
Vy finds her way in, head down, respectful nods when eye contact is made, but otherwise keeping to herself. She's dressed simply, but appropriately, in a white, knee-length dress and high heels. Finding a seat, she crosses her legs, puts her hands in her laps, and waits.
Ian will nod as Grayson, Luke, and Oliver come over to settle near him, adjusting a little in his seat to create a little Ventrue Space that nucleates around him, polite, friendly smiles given to each, though he remains quiet and makes a very faint frown at Oliver's choice in suit.
Shelly hums a few bars of the Jeopardy theme song as Crawley begins to flick the lights. Humming it faster as Beth and Coop make their way up to the seats next to her, a grin for the two fledglings under her care for the evening and a tip of two fingers to her head in return for Zane's wink. As a certain someone doesn't appear and Sveta takes the stage, Shelly doesn't seem at all surprised, but there is the smallest of sighs for the whip having to take a spot on the dais.
A few moments after the lights have dimmed, they go much darker, slipping the seats into a fair bit of shadow. The center stage lights remain bright, however. The Seneschal rises from his seat and shuffles his way forward just a bit, looking around the darkness before he begins to speak.
"I call this session of the Court of the Praxis of Los Angeles to order,' Crawley intones with a fair amount of authority and decorum. He is normally a serious fellow, but tonight there is something grim that lingers about him. Something about the way his twisted face is set, mouth curled down.
The Seneschal continues, "We shall begin, first, with Announcements." A glance toward Summer as he bows to the Prince, "First, with Her Highness, Prince Hastings." He retreats and grows silent.
Settled comfortably in his seat at the dais, Zane looks to Crawley, then Summer as court begins. Once those lights flicker, he looks out over the crowd and those kindred gathered. Looking back to the other Primogen, he smiles, nodding to the gazes he catches with his. Once Crawley hands it over to the Prince, he turns his full attention there, listening.
After settling in, Avery takes to more looking around - head slowing turning from one side to the other as if noting who's where, and perhaps even what they're wearing this evening. As the lights flicker and eventually dim, she glances at the other Tremere before focusing her attention on the stage.
Elizabeth settles in among the other Toreador and watches as Sveta takes the dais, then Crawley brings the session in order. The woman crosses her legs and clasps her hands over her bare knee before looking on attentively like a good courtier.
Violet's attention, since sitting down, has been on the stage. She catches Avery glancing to her as the lights dim, and slowly turns her head to nod it towards her. She gives her a short lived smile before focusing back on the stage as Crawley calls the court in session.
"Thank you, Seneschal Crawley," Summer says, inclining her head toward him, "And good evening, Kindred." She takes a moment before continuing, her statuesque form still and unmoving -- save for a soft, almost imperceptible draw of breath to fuel her words. "Tonight, I will begin with some distressing news." The Prince pauses. "Before I begin, I would like to assure the Court that everything I say has been verified beyond measure -- that I have personally witnessed a confession from the accused himself. There is no room for error. No hope of a mistake. As shocking as the revelation is, everything I am about to say is fact -- as painful as it is to report it."
The Toreador clenches her jaw, seeming to chew on the unspoken words, before resuming. "It is my unfortunate duty to inform all of you that Karner Blue has been working as an agent of the Sabbat. It is my personal belief that, despite his recent confession, he would *still* be a spy for the Sabbat, if it were not for the heroic actions of those who pursued investigative efforts into his nightly affairs. Mister Blue has stated that he served them under duress, after the Sword kidnapped his lover and claimed to hold him hostage. He accepted a sample of his vitae as 'proof' that he was still alive, and thus agreed to spy on our praxis and report his findings to the Sword of Caine. Those confirmed acts of treachery include..."
Summer holds up a finger, punctuating her words, "Regular meetings with an Antitribu handler at his Burbank studio..." She holds up another finger, "Engaging in at least one meeting directly with the Sabbat pack leader Dusty..." She holds up another finger, "Collecting and providing intel used in the Arts District Attack, including my haven location -- resulting in an attempt on my life, the Toreador Harpy Armand's haven location -- resulting in his and his childe's final death, Toreador Harpy Carrie Swells' haven location -- resulting in her final death. While Zavarka's location was already known by the Sabbat, Mister Blue presumably knew this would be a place of attack as well." Summer pauses, tone icy. "On top of these Toreador casualties, this attack also resulted in the Final Death of the Brujah Deputy Francis and almost claimed Ian Stanford of Clan Ventrue." The Prince pauses here, simply allowing for any reactions.
Viviana arrives after Oliver, only having to check something before making her way into the hall. Her dark gaze looks over the sea of faces before she moves to settle in next to Oliver. She sits up and her legs carefully crossed and her hands resting her knees
Gretchen listens, but passively. Her face unmoving, her eyes simply watching Summer, taking in what she says without seeming much of a reaction.
Grayson smooths out his suit, making sure it is straight just as the lights go down, and Crawley makes his announcement. It gives him a moment to nod to Ian first, and then Oliver and Luke, and any other Ventrue who catch his eye. No smile though on the normally amiable man. He?s serious, as if he understands what?s coming. In fact, if anything, he looks rather somber tonight. Not quite a frown, not yet. But then Summer speaks, and there is the frown. It's more than a frown. His eyes darken, and Grayson looks close to murderous in that gaze, though he directs it at no one, save forward. His teeth grit audibly to those who he is near.
Gabriel quietly walks in wearing a dark, green suit with a paler green buttonup and an emerald tie. Sitting, he looks... oddly unsurprised at the information, though it actually being announced therfe was a spy is clear. He listens with intent at the Prince's announcement. No smile or snide comments, though he does pull out a nnotepad and begins making notes, as ever.
Can vampires whistle? Probably...maybe. Still, it's too bad that those reversible suits never became a thing. If they had, Oliver might have turned his jacket inside out to get rid of the blue suit after all to something less...obvious. His hand pats Viviana's as she sets them, and he looks to the Prince and briefly to those around. After all, that really is quite the announcement. Oliver continues to face forward then, settling back and putting his own hands back to his lap after seeing Viviana settled.
Ian is settled in his seat near Luke and Oliver, nodding mildly at the information. He looks firmly unimpressed and unsurprised, hands folding neatly atop his lap. Otherwise he remains motionless, that faint frown never flickering.
As Lunette sits in the back listening to what Summer has to tell them all, the color drains from her face as she leans back slightly into her seat. Her red lips press tightly together and relax, then press together again. She drops her gaze down to her purse and back, then shifts, moving to sit with one leg crossed over the other.
Lilena does look over to Gabriel as he enters and takes a seat next to her. Though as Karner's name comes up she is quite surprised and relizes that this is very serious. She begins taking notes down on her ipad typing away.
As the news is delivered an uncharacteristically stoic Kennedy leans back in her seat, arms crossing as a look of displeasure settles onto her face that causes her lips to thin and a century old beast to simmer beneath the surface. With her arms crossing one sleeve pulls up enough to reveal, to the sharp eyed, a small effigy of a figure hanging by a noose from her bracelet and the figure has been colored blue.
When Summer speaks, Vy leans forward, attentive as always. At the news of Karner's confirmed treachery, she closes her eyes, disgust and horror moving her expression. Then, as the prince lists Karner Blue's offenses, one by one, Vy looks more and more sickened, like she's trying not to vomit, if she could vomit. She seems to be attempting to control her composure, even if there's no one to observe it in this big hall with the lights down. Despite her efforts, she visibly shudders.
Sveta prepares herself a cigarette as the Seneschal prefaces Summer's announcements, and soon enough, everyone on the stage is subject to the stink of cheap smoke. There's a certain distance in her gaze, a glassy absence as Summer lays out the evening's news, that continues even at the revelation of her clanmates' transgressions are leveled. She might wind up staring at one seated kindred or another, Ian, Elizabeth, Vy, but they perhaps have the impression that the Russian Whip isn't exactly regarding them to any particular effect: that's just where her gaze happens to land.
Finally, the Prince finishes her delivery, and her lips curl upward in mirth. She turns her head to the side, digging a thumb into the corner of her eye, and shakes her head. There's a giddy wobble of her shoulders and she busies herself with her cigarette to keep herself under control. She crosses her legs, foot jiggling rapidly and anxiously.
Shelly's jaw clenches as Summer begins the announcement and even more with every detail. It's a wonder her teeth aren't cracking under all that pressure. The fledglings next to her aren't quite as able to contain //their// surprise at the announce, eyes wide and mouth gawking.
Viviana listens quietly, listening to the names that are listed. Wow...is all she can muster in her head. She does sneak a glance to Ian as his name is mentioned before looking back to the front
Crawley's face does not move as he retakes his seat. He is serious, deadly serious. No doubt this was far from a surprise to him, of /all/ people. He just looks at the Prince as he waits on the rest.
Avery's head tilts slightly to one side as she listens, blinking several times in surprise at the revelation that Karner was a Sabbat agent. There's a small shake of her head and she frowns, looking around for a moment before her gaze is right back on the stage.
Elizabeth's ever-present little smile immediately vanishes as she hears Summer's speech and she leans forward in her chair. The Deputy's gaze scans the faces of the other Primogen on the dais, as well as Sveta's, before searching the crowd in the rows in front of her.
V is there, somewhere, probably out of sight and out of mind. Opening a orange pill bottle, Xanax in hand and downed with a glass of water.
Violet, upon hearing this news, doesn't seem to react at all. She doesn't move an inch, and her face is blank; emotionless. Briefly, does she turn her head to gauge Avery's reaction, before returning forward.
Listening as Summer begins to speak, Luke's brows lift in surprise. And then they lift higher, and higher, and higher. He blows out an unneeded breath and runs a hand through his hair before casting his eyes down the line of Ventrue toward where Ian sits. He offers the other Ventrue a curious expression as if to wordlessly ask a question before returning his gaze back to the Prince.
Meri is a near echo of Lunette, fair complexion growing paler as the blood drains out of her face. Leaning towards Lunette, she says something quietly to her.
The Keeper's eyes roam slowly over the seated Kindred, watching reactions as they go out. The younger members of the audience set up a bit of a quiet hum as whispers start up, the usual Elysium hangers on unable to hide their surprise and general dismay at such news.
There is a slight shake of Zane's head as the news of Karner is said to everyone in court. Looking to those gathered as the Prince ticks off her list, he frowns just a bit more. He is quiet through it all, though, and when she completes her first announcement, he turns his head back in her direction. The look is held for a moment before his gaze cuts to his fellow Primogen, gauging their reactions.
Ian glances to Luke and nods once quietly then looks back up to the stage, going still once more.
The Prince sits with marble stillness in her chair. Her gaze is chilly, her voice clipped as she continues, "There are other confessed offenses as well, including an attempt to ferret out the haven locations of Camarilla leadership, and leaking sensitive intel meant to build offensive measures against the Sabbat. But I will leave it there for now." Summer frowns, one finger softly tapping against the armrest of her chair. "To be clear, Karner has since verbally renounced any allegiance to the Sabbat, and yet numerous Kindred have died because of his actions and more would have likely fallen victim had he not been cornered. It was my intention to have Sheriff Lopez take him into custody and question him for any further violations of our security. However, Baron Abrams has refused to release him and, despite an almost immediate reprisal attack from the Sabbat against Hollywood to reclaim their former agent, Baron Abrams has opted to offer him sanctuary."
Summer's frown deepens with this information. "In the interest of maintaining peaceable relations with the Anarchs, I have decided to honor the Domain held by Baron Abrams over Hollywood. However, due to his many and unforgivable offenses against the Camarilla, Karner Blue will no longer be welcome in all of Los Angeles? Camarilla holdings. Tonight, I declare he shall be Blood Hunted should he step foot upon my Domain, and his existence forfeit for his many crimes. I will also state that no Kindred of the Camarilla will violate Anarch territorial claims to apprehend or seek vengeance against Karner Blue on pain of having the Blood Hunt called upon them as well.
Emily Cade slips inside, her pale ice blue eyes briefly gleaming with an unnatural brightness in the few seconds that it takes for her vision to adjust to the relative dimness of the auditorium. She might have looked for and then sat with Grayson - although with the latter's recent elevation to the lofty heights of Primogen, it seems she'll need to find somewhere else...In the event, she'll settle on Harper. Whether the Keeper is standing or sitting, she'll swan over towards her, and then favor her with a knowing smile. As for Karner Blue...Well. She doesn't seem to have a care in the world where he's concerned!
Gabriel leans back as he listens. The sounds of a blood hunt raises some mirth from the man as he stops writing, a smile growing on his lips. That smile soon turns into a look of disappointment regarding the declarations of the Barony's territory. He lets out a soft sigh through his nose, and resumes his notes.
Elbows on her knees, Vy drops her head down into her palms, continuing to try to control what seems to be a fear response, if anything - probably based on the nightmare stories her sire has told her about the Sabbat coupled with recent accounts. She shakes her head, as if this, too, is a nightmare she'd like to wake up from - even if she doesn't dream.
Clearly, all of this comes as no surprise to Grayson, as if he had been foretold before this announcement. So as Summer continues on, the man continues to stare absolute murder at nothing in particular. A wall maybe, lost in thought, or simply listening to what is being said. He?s a statue up on the stage in his seat. His jaw continues to work slightly, the only movement, as teeth continue to grind. Likely need a dentist if he wasn?t what he is. Who can say why the Ventrue is quite so mad, but he looks as if he would kill Karner with his bare hands if the man was in front of him and enjoy every second of it.
Shelly surely has many thoughts regarding her clanmates transgressions, but through sheer force of willpower she manages to keep up a good poker-face. Arms crossed, the Deputy gives a frim nod as Summer lays out her decree, and the restrictions surrounding it as well.
Harper glances towards Emily as she approaches, but says nothing and goes back to watching the crowd with that near blank expression on her face. She shakes her head lightly as a few of the young Roses look her way, and goes back to being dilligent at the doorway.
Sitting next to Meri in the back, Lunette slips her phone from her purse before she leans over to listen to what Meri whispers, and she murmurs something back before she is glancing down to her lap. She draws in a slow, deep breath, starting to look rather agitated, with her foot tapping lightly in the air.
Sveta's managed to twist herself up in the chair on stage. One foot drawn back to her rear, knee cocked up, the other extended out to her side, she's folded an arm atop of that leg joint and buried her lower face in the crook of her elbow. Her cigarette's burned down to the filter, and is now a smoldering nub between her fingers.
The toothy smile she's hiding behind her arm isn't exactly a friendly one.
Her filter finally heats up enough to prompt her to drop it to the stage beneath, and she sharply crushes it beneath her boot as if it were going to run away, the loud stomp reverberating through the auditorium: and causing a bit of introspection - enough to conjure a humored guffaw from her at her own behavior.
Lilena leans towards Gabriel and whispers something to him and then, straightens back up while placing her hands in her lap ontop of her ipad as she listens to the Prince speak.
Oliver leans in to whisper quietly to Viviana before sitting back up again, looking on still. His gaze glances towards that loud boom, giving Sveta a quirked cant of his head before looking back then to The Prince.
Having thus issued the decree, the Prince mindfully shifts her hands from the armrests of her and laces them in her lap. She is still stone-faced and unsmiling. "This treachery should be a reminder to *all* of us that we need to be mindful going forward. It would be a relief to believe that Karner Blue is the only mole serving the Sabbat -- but of course that is too sweet a dream. Even so, our praxis is strong. I am happy to say that the city is safer than it has been in *years* thanks to *all* of our combined efforts." A minor pause. "There is a reason the Sword has not struck us again since the last. With that said.." Summer looks over to Crawley, offering a dip of her head. "Seneschal." An invitation for him to speak.
From the stage Kennedy shifts her gaze out across the gathering of Kindred in the dark, judging reactions to the news that Karner would not be pursued for now. Her lips remain thinned and her brow darkened with a grim scowl. Finally her right leg shifts over the left and her hands come to rest upon her knee, loosening her posture even if it didn't truly relax.
Viviana remains sitting but feels Oliver lean toward her. She hears his words and nods ever so slightly before leaning back to whisper back
Crawley rises and nods to the Prince as she calls upon him. He steps forward a bit and says, "As Her Highness mentioned, there was an attack on Hollywood by the Sabbat several nights ago. This information is working its way through the Anarchs and, by now, no doubt some of you have heard of this."
The Nosferatu lets that information sink in with a long pause.
"Details continue to be sketchy but we do know that a sizable force of Sabbat infiltrated Hollywood, likely in connection with the revelation of Karner Blue's deceptions. It appears as if this attack was isolated and by all indications there are no additional movements being made against Camarilla holdings by the Sabbat .. at this time. There are no reports of Kindred casualties. Baron Abrams, his Anarchs, and their retainers were able to get the best of these packs and drive them back."
There is another moment of pause as his blue eyes sweep the crowd with a purpose, "I mention this to stymie any concerns that the Sabbat will be attacking us a result, and also to caution the praxis on traveling to Hollywood and the Westside in the near future. Karner Blue's Mansion appears to have been ransacked and is currently being held by the Anarchs. I think it goes without saying that, given the nature of this attack that if you choose to spend time with Mister Blue in the near future, you do so with care. Some in the city have strong, potentially violent feelings toward him."
After having set that, another pause as he lets that all process.
Then, a nod to the Prince, "Next, is Appointments. I believe you announcements about some open offices, Your Highness?" As he gives the stage back the suzerain, he retreats backward again.
Avery tucks some hair behind both ears before her arms move to fold loosely beneath her chest, continuing to frown as she listens. There is a slight nod however at what is said, and her gaze drifts silently around the kindred in her immediate area before it returns to the stage.
Gabriel chuckles, whispering pack to Lilena, then returning to listen to the Prince's comments. He leans back, listening to the Senechal as they speak. The scribbling of notes continues, even as the list of commands regarding the Hollywood area continues.
Elizabeth quickly regains her composure and even leans over to comfort the young Toreador neonate beside her, then settles in to listen to the Seneschal's proclamation.
Gryason doesn?t precisely hear the words Crawley says, like some distant din that is far away. His stare seems to be boring a hole through the wall. It?s only when he realizes, his grip on his own hands is almost breaking bone that he blinks, just reeling himself in before he cause self-harm in the way of snapping fingers. He blinks, staring down now at his hands that have gone bone white, whiter than he is pale, and he has to flex them just to check them. His gaze there for a moment, before his head lifts and moves over to Crawley just as the man is announcing the next in the order. He just stares for a moment, as if trying to recall what was just said.
Can Shelly talk through clinched jaws? Certainly seems like she can mutter something to Beth before the fledgling gets too riled up at mentions of bloodhunts and Sabbat attacks in Hollywood.
Ian's head dips into a firm nod at the mention of the bloodhunt, leaning over to briefly speak to Luke and Oliver in a quiet whisper before he leans back, hands folding into his lap.
Violet manages a slow shake of her head before casting her eyes downward at her purse as it rests in her lap. Adjusting her glasses, she glances back up towards Avery and gives her another nod before gazing forward.
Oliver nods his head as he leans in and listens to Ian, putting a hand to the man's shoulder and a nod is given to whatever is sed, obvious acceptance to whatever it was.
It would seem that whether the Keeper is thrilled with her newfound company or not, Emily Cade intends to linger next to Harper as if the two of them were the oldest and fondest of friends. Although, there's something about Harper's unreadable expression which seems to provoke something of a smile from her.
"Before-" Sveta nearly shouts this word as she sits bolt upright. She moderates her tone after a pause, but almost a bit too much. It might take some effort to hear her in the nosebleeds. "Before we segue to the bureaucracy," the Russian leaves particular weight upon this word, continuing to grind her cigarette filter to a mash underfoot.
"Clan Malkavian wishes to express its displeasure that the fox in this henhouse was borne from our blood. Moles, spies, ~traitors~, are all par for the course in this game we play, but it does not lessen the sting when these matters are brought to light. To that end..." The longer she speaks, the more Serova seems to come to grips with herself, reaching a proper amplitude for oration and steading her staccato word delivery.
"I credit our Emissary, Zebastian Oygard for his premonition that we were under active deceit. Similarly, Deputy Martin performed in exemplary fashion when handling the matter through the course of her duties. The clan isn't /happy/ with what happened, but we are pleased with our ability to self-excise the malignancy which took root in our hereditary... and I'm sure that if we had our way, without the barricade of politics, that the matter would have been resolved with a great deal more permeance." Serova growls these last few words, finally inspecting the spread out fiberglass beneath her heel. She glances back up, at Hastings, and puts a hint bit more charm back into her voice:
"My prince."
There is a look to Shelly, then to Beth as the keen eyed Brujah Primogen looks to the young Brujah and their Malkavian keeper. Seeing that Shelly has things well in hand, Zane seems to relax a bit as the worry of Beth causing trouble is squashed. Looking back to Sveta he nods along with her words before Zane smiles and nods back to Shelly as she's given her props for her work.
Lunette continues to whisper quietly to Meri as she sits all the way in the back, shifting slightly in her seat as if trying to find some way to get comfortable once more. She's still pale and looking somewhat disturbed by the news this evening.
Gabriel pauses, just... staring at Sveta, appalled at her need to interrupt so rudely. He doesn't say anything, but simply stares at her until she stops, as though her voice were a personal offense. When she stops, he resumes, watching the formalities hopefully presume.
Kennedy turns her head slightly to one side to look at Greta. Her brow raises slightly but she says nothing, though she probably had quite a few things on her mind regarding the losses her Clan suffered at the hands of one Karner Blue.
It's not lost on the majority of the assemblage - despite angry mutterings - that Karner Blue was never technically a traitor. He never took an oath of loyalty to the Camarilla, and there doesn't seem to be any accusations of being an actual Sabbat either. What it /feels/ like, to most of those there, is that Karner Blue is an Anarch, who - regardless of the fact that Hollywood only still exists because of the Camarilla serving as a bulwark in DTLA - sought to feather his own nest by selling Camarilla secrets to its Sabbat enemies. And has now gone opted to hide behind the ranks of his own Sect as an innocent caught in the middle. There will be more than one angry mutterings where the Barony of Hollywood is concerned. After all, if the Anarchs aren't going to help, they should at least not actively sabotage. Coming so soon after the disturbances in the Warehouse District, and the humiliation of the Justicar's Archon...One begins to wonder if the Sabbat isn't the only real enemy in the city.
Summer listens to Sveta speak, her expression gradually softening for the first time this evening. She doesn't quite smile, but her lips lose their purse and her expression radiates warm sincerity as she says, "Whip Serova, thank you for addressing the Court. I would never, under any circumstances, hold an entire clan responsible for the actions of one. Clan Malkavian has contributed to this praxis' security in numerous ways, through numerous individuals, and I can confidently state that this city owes a great deal of its recent safety to your efforts. Speaking of..."
The Prince's lips finally flit into a smile, just a hint of one, and says, "I will break the normal order of Court to move onto favors. I promise we shall return to Appointments in just a moment..." She looks over at Crawley, then back to the crowd.
"This evening, I will be appointing two acts of favors to Clan Malkavian. Given all you have done for the city, it is not only my pleasure -- but in our best interest -- to strengthen your position in the city. Thank you especially, Whip Serova, for your recent contributions. I leave it to you to decide how to partition them out."
Summer then looks over to Strauss, affording the Warlock a delicate smile. "And my last favor goes to Clan Tremere. This is another clan who has been working steadfastly for our protection, both through their services and their acts -- namely at the hands of Sheriff Lopez. Thank you, Primogen, for your clans' steadfast service to the Camarilla."
Another blink. This time as Grayson's gaze shifts from Crawley to Sveta as she speaks. He's not so much annoyed at the interruption as surprised, briefly. Or so it would seem. His expression is decidedly too neutral at the moment. As if he?s stilled his features and brought them under control in a instant, but what is underneath, what the Beast feels is now decidedly clouded. The lack of his ever present smile though, speaks volumes, but it doesn't seem specifically directed at Sveta. His eyes moving away from her once her speech is done and back to the Prince, since she was addressed. He listens in motionless silence once more, still straight as an arrow. Not even truly looking at those named, so much as staying affixed to the Prince.
Avery arches a brow when Sveta speaks, and she regards the Malkavian Whip for the duration of her speech, lips pursing thoughtfully before nodding a bit in an agreeable manner. She looks to the Prince next, listening quietly to the favors appointed - the corners of her lips curving into just a hint of a smile at the mention of her clan and the Sheriff.
Elizabeth Tanner's hazel eyes roam from face to face before pausing again on Sveta's when the Prince's favors are given. The Toreador Deputy looks onward, then, and she turns in her seat to look back toward Lunette and Meri. While turned back, the frail woman's eyes take in the rest of the crowd behind her and eventually fall upon Harper and Emily Cade. The former receives a polite nod of respect while the latter earns a crooked smile that grows quite wide.
Shelly gives a small nod as Sveta says her piece on behalf of the clan. Certainly not the time for any applauding, but the ever so slight show of agreement for the words. And a bit of head tilt in surprise as the Prince generously hands out those boons as well.
Sveta's hair has fallen out of its neatly combed slick in her violent initiation to her earlier delivery, and she reaches up to put herself back in order, before wiping her palms off on her opposite sleeves. She glances sidelong at her prince, before dipping her head in what must constitute her best approximation of a bow, both in acknowledgment of the words, and thanks for the favor. She speaks lowly in response, but it barely reaches past the first row: her native tongue - pain expression of gratitude, even to someone who doesn't speak the language.
Meri lifts a hand as Elizabeth looks in her direction, before the limb drops back down into her lap.
Sveta's impassioned display gains some attention from the Nosferatu Seneschal. His icy-blue eyes seem to remain focused on the Malkavian Whip for the duration. When she is done, he just gives a nod, seemingly in time with the Prince's words about the heroism and efforts of the Children of Malkav.
The temporary Herald has seated himself again on his stool. As the Prince deviates from the order of process, Crawley just nods to Summer, the whole thing having no effect on him. After all it is literally Summer's Court and she can run it how she wishes. He listens, hands folded while she announces Recognition. The mention of the Malkavian and the Tremer Clans both draw an approving nod.
Listening, V sips her glass of water. Offering a soft inaudible clap when Sveta was being awarded but obviously a bit disheartened like a few others this evening.
Lilena listens to the happenings of court while she sips on a glass of water that she had with her.
Shifting gears once more, the Prince straightens a little in her seat and crosses one long, pale leg over the other with a taught shift of her skirt. "In regards to open offices," she continues, "I am currently seeking a Kindred to act as my Herald. This is a very visible position that requires the individual in question to act as my voice when announcing new policies or edicts in Elysium. Ideally, whomever wishes to hold this position should be a confident public speaker -- for obvious reasons -- and someone I can trust to relay the correct information."
Summer takes in a delicate breath and goes on to say, "Secondly, I will also be asking the Harpies to select a Chancellor from their ranks. I will defer to whomever they select amongst themselves and eagerly await their decision." She turns to cast a smile at Jenet or Bette or whomever is theoretically present (despite RL). "The Chancellor will maintain records of prestation and track what boons are owed and by whom, and have final say in whether they have been to satisfaction." Summer then nods to Crawley, indicating she has concluded.
Content to keep listening, Oliver is not as visually perturbed as others. One of the few times he manages to keep a fairly straight face as he settles back to glance across to some of the harpies, looking forward to seeing who they will choose.
Crawley nods and rises, his gaze peering around the Court as if he was looking to see for any kind of strange faces amid the crowd. At length, he says, "There are no formal Introductions tonight. So we can move to Petitions for this Court." At length, his gaze settles upon Gretchen.
"Grafin Gretchen von Eisen. Is it true that you have a peition to be heard before this Court?" Crawley intones directly to the Elysian Park Ventrue. He continues, "If so, stand now and let the Prince and praxis here your case." The Sewer Rat then retreats and gives the stage over to her.
At the mention of a Chancellor finally a small smile tugs at one corner of her mouth, thoughts perhaps drifting to Emily, Jenet and her old friend Bette. It is the first time Kennedy, who is normally very personable, has come close to looking herself. A slow draw of breath is made only to center herself a bit as she sits idle during the proceedings, watching them with her usual bright interest slowly returning.
Grayson's gaze lifts off the Prince for the first time in a while, having just been staring almost blankly as her announcements were made. But he seems to be listening to everything. Though his features never shift much at all. Only when Gretchen is mentioned by Crawley does his head swivel a bit to find the mentioned, and a brow lifts just a little in her direction. It?s pretty clear, the Ventrue is rather distracted, which is not generally the case. Still, he's curious enough about this to come out of his reverie.
Gretchen turns her head to her name being called, and slowly she rises a hand drifting along the medallion on her chest before it reaches into her busby left on the seat. Pulling forth a single rose, it's petals dyed the purest azure. She clutches the stem in her hands in front of her, despite the thorns, standing tall and straight, eyes settling forwards and onto Summer. And then, with her voice cool, and soft for how much it carries she speaks.
"Karner Blue is a betrayer, there is no way else for it to be put. I have heard his story and how he was coerced, and I have found it lacking. He had every opportunity to signal his duress, every opportunity to seek aid. Every opportunity to turn to people like Robbie Bartok, to people like Peter Crawley, accomplished men, men who I have stood besides on bridges and streets in our darkest hours. Men and women who could have helped him. But this is not what Karner Blue has done, he instead decided to betray the trust of those who accepted him, to cause the death of those that welcomed him in a manner most vile. This is a sin.
But sins can be forgiven.
But that absolution must come from actual forgiveness, not of machinations and chess board moves.
Isaac Abrams has cast his protection wide, to offer asylum to Karner Blue while half a dozen of those in Hollywood that put faith in Isaac Abrams protection have died to the enemy across the river in the previous weeks. He seeks to style himself a savior of the anarch, a martyr in standing up to the evils of the tower. This is not the message he has sent. He has told us that he will play at the petty politics of appearances, that he will sacrifice his own, blind to the hurt he causes, as long as it harms the Camarilla he hates so dearly.
And I see that the price of his hatred, of his ambition, is paid in lost friends, in dead family, in final goodbyes before eternal partings from those we love.
But Isaac Abrams is not Hollywood, nor will he ever be. Hollywood does not exist in the vision of one man nor his rulership. It exists in the streets and in the hearts of those that populate it, the communities and the people. Communities that are being torn apart, people that are being killed under the stain of the Sabbat's ever reaching vile talons.
The Knight does not look for trouble, but he makes sure that trouble does not go looking for others. He forges through the unknown darkness like a venturing juggernaut.
Seeking to lend his hand to the downtrodden.
His voice to the silenced
And his justice to the rest.
It is by the chances of fate, not our own choices that we stand here on the walls of the bulwark of lands free from slavery, from tyranny and from the fear of what lurks inside of us. But yet we still have decisions to make. A decision on what the Tower, what /we/ stand for. If we will stand for the ideals we were said to represent. If we are willing to become more than we have been told we could be, something worth being proud of, something greater than any of us. If we are to be the ones willing to bring back the light.
As such, I petition that the Tower stands as it's namesake, a gleaming bastion in the defense of all who need it. That we be released from the concerns of borders and the jealousy of rulers. That we protect those who cannot protect themselves, no matter who they may be, no matter where they may be. That no matter where the Sabbat may raise the threat of its fangs and hatred, that it will know that we will be there, stopping it. One further journey Prinzessin.
Justice for the forgotten.
Strength for the timid.
Penance for the cruel."
Ian will give a somewhat small nod at Gretchen's speech, as if agreeing with the tone more than the full length of it. Then he'll go back to being still.
Looking around from his seat, Zane doesn't say much through most of court, but listening to Gretchen he lifts one dark brow then calls out, "Can you do the short version for us Brujah? I have no idea what that all meant."
As Zane speaks, Meri's head turns sharply in his direction and she blinks, hands curling up in her lap. Turning her gaze elsewhere, she goes back to speaking with Lunette.
As the former Ventrue Primogen begins to speak, Avery turns her head to look in Gretchen's direction. But as the words continue to come out, she takes on a slightly glazed expression, one that eventually goes away after blinking several times. Slowly she looks back towards the stage as Zane's voice is heard, lips pressing together a moment almost thoughtfully before she looks around to gauge other reactions.
Elizabeth turns back in her seat to face forward and settles in as Gretchen is called forward. She listens with a passive expression, patient throughout, and only turns her gaze away from the Hollywood Knight when it is clear that her statement is finished. Then, the Toreador looks toward Summer, curious for her reaction.
Lots of blinking tonight, and once more Grayson has to do so, as that speech goes on and he stares at Gretchen. Just a flat stare as the speech carries on. Only when it?s finished do his lips purse a little. That's it. Instead of any recognition of the words beyond that, he turn to look at the Prince as well.
Lunette glances to Meri and nods softly to what she says, and then she looks forwards once more, focusing on Gretchen.
Sveta has found the time and wherewithal to light up another lung blackener as Gretchen speaks. She smokes steadily throughout the delivery, having found a new calm that's eased the static charge of tension throughout her form after her own expulsion of vitriol. She's all but lounging up on stage as Zane pipes up, but doesn't appear to have, or want to deliver, an answer for his troubles. She ashes off to the side and blows a long stream of smoke toward the ceiling, before snapping her fingers thrice in applause. It's hard to gauge the sincerity from the often aloof Russian.
Despite the length of Gretchen's speech, Summer remains attentive, her expression gentle and patient. No doubt a Rose can appreciate a heartfelt testimony more than other clans might, which is why she is able to remain consciously focused on the Ventrue during the entirety of it. It isn't until the final line 'Penance for the cruel' rings out that the Prince delicately shifts, her smile remaining. "Thank you, Grafin, for that rousing speech. You embody every bit of your namesake -- the Hollywood Knight -- in your attempted valiance. Unfortunately, in matters of domain, it is incredibly dangerous for one side to ignore the territory already established by the other, especially if they themselves do not condone this 'open borders' policy. Furthermore, it seems dangerous once more to act on soil that we are not familiar with, that we do not have intel on. It seems to me a very easy way to be ambushed or otherwise caught unaware. However..."
Summer leans forward to clasp her hand atop one pale knee, her posture poised. "There is *always* the possibility of working alongside Anarchs, supposing the appropriate compromises and agreements can be reached. I think we have proven that before -- that I as a ruler have proven that before -- so I do applaud your desire to work across the aisle. However, to the notion of ignoring borders entirely, even to fight the Sabbat, I cannot and will not condone such a policy."
As Gretchen finishes speaking Kennedy's head tilts slightly to the side. She doesn't say anything aloud as she's not been recognized by the throne to do so, but she does lean toward Crawley in a manner that allows her long, dark hair to hide her face.
Peter Crawley watches as Gretchen gives her speech and his hands slip very slowly behind his back. A veteran of the Court, the Nosferatu stands quietly, his face blank. But there is a point at which she says something that causes the faintest smile to tease just at the very corner of his thin lips.
When Gretchen is done her words, his eyes sweep toward the Prince when Summer responds. The only distraction is Kennedy leaning into him. He shifts and his lips disappear behind the Toreador Primogen's hair as he says something in return to her. A nod enforces his words as rights himself again and moves now to glance back to the Hollywood Knight to see if she has a reply to the Prince.
Gretchen goes through a series of steps for a moment. She is called forwards. She delivers her opinion and request. She recieves an answer from the Prince, and with the manner of finality the issue is dropped in acceptance. A closed fist swings across her body to clang against the metal of her cuirass as she bows herself forwards respectfully, then reseats herself, her blue rose placed back into her busby.
Getting a message on her cellphone, V elegantly stands and finishes her water taking the glass with her. She gives a brief hand gesture that she must suddenly depart as respectfully as she can, then promptly heads out towards the nearest exit. A ghoul's job never ends.
"There's beauty in brevity," Shelly says softly to the fledglings next to her shortly after Zane asks for the cliff notes version for the Brujah.
It doesn't seem like anything which paints the Anarchs, Hollywood or Baron Abrams in a bad light tonight - however scattered the facts, delicate the geopolitical reality or lengthy the delivery - will be met with disapproval tonight from those attending. There does seem to be a sense of frustration with the Camarilla's neighbors.
Luke listens to Gretchen's speech, one hand cupped beneath his chin in a thoughtful manner as he considers what she has to say and then turns his eyes back to regard Summer for her response. He nods somewhat at her reply before dropping his hands to fold idly in his lap.
After the exchange Kennedy straightens and resumes her previous pose, left heel pulling back slightly against one leg of the chair. Her fingers have laced upon her lap once more and she watches as Gretchen returns to her seat, gaze sweeping darkened faces and lingering on the more familiar a moment--her Toreador and the Hancock Park crowd--before shifting back to the Seneschal and Prince.
After Gretchen's speech, Violet listens intently to the Prince's response before she gives a glance towards Avery. There's a look of concern in her eyes for Avery, as she tilts her head, briefly, but it fades as if she realized something. Then it's back to being... blank and staring forward.
As Gretchen takes her seat again, Crawley steps forward one final time and and says, "That is all that was on our formal agenda. Does anyone else have anything to add to our Court proceedings tonight?"
It is a simple question, punctuated by a long pause as the Nosferatu allows for anyone else to speak up.
Grayson gives Summer?s response an almost imperceptible nod. Whether it be acceptance or agreement is the unclear part. Nothing else shifts in his expression, though he turns back to find Gretchen, and spares her what one can only call the smallest of smiles. It?s so quick, that it may not even be caught. Then he is still once more, possibly retracted into his own thoughts again.
Ian will also nod at Summer's comment, in firm agreement to contrast his more vague agreement with Gretchen's sentiment. Then he'll go quiet, glancing briefly around the room.
The Prince looks out across the audience, her brows gently lifted as she waits to hear if there are any other petitioners."
Harper turns her head from watching the crowd and looks towards the Seneschal as he calls for any other requests. She moves from her spot along the wall and walks down the isle towards the side of the stage, her hands folding behind her as she waits quietly to be acknowledged.
"Keeper Campbell," Crawley nods to Harper, "What is your petition?" He then waits for her to speak to the Court.
Harper inclines her head to the Seneschal and moves towards the center of the floor in front of the panel of chairs above. She then inclines her head to the Prince as well before speaking. "I would like to make a formal request for Domain. It is no secret that Elysium is my heart and soul, and I have dedicated much to ensure its continued sanctity and safety. As such, I wish to make the request to claim Bunker Hill as my offical Domain." Then waits quietly for the answer.
Elizabeth inclines her head as she hears the request and gentle claps her hands together, quietly so as to not distract... too much, before glancing toward the clanmates who share her row.
While there may be an antsy Beth beside her, Shelly does still listen patiently as Harper steps forward to declare her business. Subdued as the night may have been after the major announcements, the deputy has the tiniest smile as Harper makes her domain request.
Shifting a bit forward as Harper is recognized and walks to the center of the floor, Kennedy looks on with interest. Her head cants slightly to the side at the request and she offers a nod of solidarity, gaze shifting toward Summer.
Summer turns to look at Harper when she approaches, her smile widening. When her fellow Toreador comes before the dais, she awaits the petition with with open curiosity -- her head canted just so and brows gently lifted. She receives the request well enough and says, "Keeper Campbell, you have served this praxis well. You are more than deserving of domain. Out of policy, I would prefer any petitions for domain be broached before Court, in order to consider any existing entanglements or resources beforehand. With that said, I think it is well within your rights to request and I look forward to discussing this matter with you further." She offers Harper an approving smile and a delicate dip of her head.
The fresh-arrival somehow-made-Camarilla-brass Russian Malkavian, Sveta, pops out her phone on stage and very clearly navigates a map application with her thumbs. She squints and scratches the side of her head.
It would appear that Emily Cade is a tiny bit surprised by Harper's petition, and rather intensely curious as to Summer's reaction. In the aftermath of the Prince's response, she'll offer the Keeper a sincere little moue of her lips by way of moral support.
Harper inclines her head to the Prince as she speaks, "Then I thank the Court for its time." and turns to head back to her spot holding up the wall. Her hands fold in front of her again once she's settled and she goes back to watching the crowd.
As the Prince answers Harper's petition and the Rose resumes her seat, the Seneschal slides his hands out from behind his back, saying, "Then if there nothing else, I will call this Court to a close."
As he does with every court, Crawley looks around the auditorium and wishes all the gathered Kindred a kind of ominous well-wishing, "All go your way in peace and walk safely in these dangerous times."
