SLUGS Player's Blog

Archon 2011 Wrap-Up

2011-10-15T20:14:00.004-05:00

I had a good time this year. I played the Duke of Wellington, you know, the guy that defeated Napoleon at Waterloo. I was the highest ranking English PC and the de-facto lead negotiator. I negotiated away British Columbia to the Americans in return for cash for the crown, Russian pressure on Japan and a little slice of the pie for my estate. Too bad I never got to cash in. Riots consumed London and I was assassinated by a jockey. Never trust the Russians.

I did win a nice prize for "Best Aristocrat", a book, The Long, Cold Walk to Mars and a nice print of some pirates talking about what appears to be a spyglass. I guess my sweet mutton-chops, prop cigar and older gentleman slow manner of speaking won the judges over.

Notes from Archon 2011 Game

2011-10-15T20:13:00.002-05:00

Here are my notes as I typed them into my iPhone for the game:

Cmadore Hastings navy
Commander Charles wilmore. Anti templar brother Langdon colefield

Vladimir alexandrov
Aston drake USA

Sir Marc isambard Brunel. Rival
Henry plowen eitc

Cabal pure thought bad religion

Dr tutor.

Langdon colefield veteran brother of charles wilmore

Bray newspaper Coventry herald

Tracery fletchers satirist man of god.

Americans give a private domain in what I cede.

Panggoon disks are from

Dickens in employ of supernatural

Natalie James is behind the riots

Sevrin. English

Broley stole a painting from dr Tudor. Grayson wants painting.

Sister frost bad religion

M a Evans. Sedition.

Pre-Archon Thursday Night

2011-09-30T14:36:00.001-05:00

We had a good time Thursday night at the Doubletree. The world tour of beverages was fun. Nice to hang out in the courtyard until they kicked us out into the lobby.

SLUGS 2011 Archon LARP

2011-09-10T22:12:00.003-05:00

Here is the description for this year's Archon SLUGS LARP:

Tower Trouble

"Setting London 1840 World of Darkness/Steampunk. Treachery is at every path. If it isn't rioting, its robbery or worse!. Kind gentlemen, it is all compounded by the appearance of foreigners from both the East and the Colonies. Certainly odd times indeed! Why are you being followed? Why are they interested? Be quick or you may end up dead my friend! Friday - briefing begins at 7pm and game starts at 8pm. Saturday -Role play can begin around 9pm but officials may not be fully in place until 9:30pm (masquerade). Event fee $10."

I think its exiting to involve Steampunk as a theme given its current popularity.

2010 LARP Recap

2011-09-10T22:11:00.002-05:00

I was corrupt and also on the outs with those with money to burn. I was killed by a paid assassin after my character was slandered in the paper. Sad times for me, needed more foot soldiers.

Character for 2010

2010-10-01T20:22:00.002-05:00

I will be playing Charles H. Kline, Mayor of Pittsburgh. Am I corruptible? You'll have to ask to find out...

Archon 2010 Thursday Night

2010-10-01T09:54:00.000-05:00

Nothing to report. No parties, few people. No one I know that well at least.

Sheraton Hotel Layout

2010-09-27T11:48:00.003-05:00

Here is a link to the lobby and meeting room maps for the Sheraton. Link Be sure to click on the 'next' link to see the lower level. I wonder how much will be in bounds?

Archon 34 (2010) Game: 3 Rivers Showdown

2010-09-27T11:45:00.001-05:00

Here is the description for this year's game,

"Setting 1927 Pittsburg PA. The Step City is one of the few places that the G-men don't seem to care about. There are reasons for this but they may not be what you think. The Italians that live uptown would like a bigger piece of the 3 Rivers but the Irish who constantly have to literally look up to them from Downtown aren't really happy about it. There is money to be made and power to be taken but why is it that when someone makes a 'play' they seem to disappear? One time event fee $10. Manditory meeting at 7:20 pm in the Sheraton Chalet Basel room. This event is a quad session game. Includes Session 3, 4, 7 and 8"

Archon 2010

2010-03-25T11:30:00.004-05:00

This year's Archon has a new location. It will be held at the Sheratons at Westport. I've reserved a room there and look forward to this year's game.

No Events at Hotel Collinsville for Archon 33

2009-02-18T21:59:00.001-06:00

The former Holiday Inn Collinsville will not be directly involved with this year's Archon convention. From the Archon 33 home page:

"There are going to be changes for Archon 33. There will be no programming or events at the Hotel Collinsville (the hotel formerly known as the Holiday Inn). All programming, including the dance, filking, and hospitality will take place at the Gateway Center. The facility will be open until 3AM on Friday and Saturday nights.

These changes were necessary due to some dramatic changes the aforementioned hotel has put into place due to new management. The Archon board feels that these changes were far too stringent to allow our attendees to have an enjoyable weekend. One such change was that they would not allow any room parties. By the way, anyone interested in hosting a room party at this year's Archon should watch for future announcements regarding the locations accepting them. "

I've read on the Atomic Squash forums that alcohol will be limited to a hospitality room in the convention center. So no more roaming the halls with booze you brought with you. You may be able to buy beer from the convention center, depending on how late they keep their concessions open. Not that it matters...

Since the facility will be open until 3AM, that is plenty late for LARPing. You'll just have to walk a little farther to find a good afterparty. I look forward to coming back this year and playing with the SLUGS crew.

I will not be attending Archon 2008

2008-08-11T15:56:00.001-05:00

I will not be in attendance this year. My first child is due to be born during Archon and my wife does not want to give birth at the convention. If you have any updates, feel free to forward them to: djfengshui@gmail.com and I'll do my best to post them here. Have fun with the end of the world!

Update:

Colson Mark Smith was born the Monday after Archon 32. He and mother are in good health.

Blog Situation

2007-09-25T11:42:00.001-05:00

Well, I have not updated this blog for quite a while. I will not be posting the 1969 Irish characters as they may be used in a future LARP event. The event was inteded to be run at Archon 31, but we did not get enough players. Also, there will be no direct audio posting to this blog as the service is no longer available.

2006-10-06T21:32:00.000-05:00

Gazpacho's Pics

2006-10-06T15:46:00.000-05:00

Tom snapped some photos. Link

Pirate Dice in Use

2006-10-06T00:53:00.000-05:00

Take note, DJ's.

Lady Tron for my Laney

2006-10-06T00:14:00.000-05:00

Atomic Squash Party

2006-10-05T22:48:00.000-05:00

Here is a link to their website.

SLUGS Thursday Night Party Report

2006-10-05T22:26:00.000-05:00

If it was not clear from the audio, I was dressed as a pirate Thursday night. It was glorious.

Slacking FTL :(

2006-10-04T14:38:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I have not kept up with the pre-storyline on the forum. Check my links section and read it in the News of the World section of the forum. It has useful storyline information with perhaps a couple of potential characters mixed in. If I have time, I'll put the rest up. It sounds like the world has not ended yet, but will soon. And we get to play a role in it!

I do plan to post from the con, mostly by phone. Stay tuned!

Audioblog FTW!

2006-10-04T14:37:00.000-05:00

I got the audioblog working again. Here are the instructions:

I have set up audio blogging on this blog. Anyone is welcome to use it to post about their progess in the game, spread rumors or follow up on the action. To access this feature call:

(415) 856-0205

The 'primary telephone number' is:

(618) 867-5309

The pin is:

7584

Be sure to press the '#' key to end your post. Do not hang up! Then press 1 to post to the blog, as prompted. Keep in mind that I have the right to delete and comment on any post made to this blog. Have fun! This is the last year for this as the service will soon be discontinued.

Laurence Doyle (1421)

2006-09-15T16:53:00.000-05:00

Laurence Doyle
Ghoul of Sarra Brennan

Almost two decades ago, the gang wars of Dublin broke out. You, like most people, hid out in your flat during the evening. One rainy night, a young woman pounded on your door. She was covered in blood and scared, so you let her in.

You gave her some privacy while she cleaned up, and gave her a dress that some lass had left at your place to replace the one she was wearing. You saw an opportunity for some action, and decided to take advantage of the situation. You offered to share your last bottle of table wine with her, and she accepted. As you drank your glass, it tasted like the wine had gone bad. Since Sarra seemed to be enjoying hers, you weren’t about to complain. You passed out after the first glass.

It turns out that she was the slayer of the vampiric ruler of Dublin, and that the gang wars were actually clan wars between Ventrue and Tremere. You were made the ghoul of the Tremere leader. After two years of hell on the streets of Dublin, your side prevailed. 18 years have passed since then, and now Sarra and her “husband” Henry are one of the power couples of Dublin.

Recently, the uneasy peace in Dublin has been rocked. A plague is affecting Dublin, and Sarra seems to know who is behind it. She has been working the network of vampires to arrange a meeting in Dun Boyne this weekend between the English and Irish elite. Ostensibly, the English will be trading barley from Wales for water from Ireland. The reality is that Sarra is using this weekend to single out the responsible parties for the recent changes in Dublin. You and her entourage are going this weekend to the “social event”.

After 18 years as a ghoul to Sarra, things are getting tiring. You have worked relentlessly under her command, patiently waiting to be embraced. It appears that she is never going to do it, and the time has come to find a new master. You suspect Sarra’s other ghoul, Peter Knowlan, feels the same. Henry has shown undying faith in Sarra, so he isn’t a good candidate. You know some of the Ventrue will be at this event, so maybe it is time to switch sides…The two problems with that are: the Ventrue hate you and Sarra can never find out your intentions.

Sarra will be looking to you for protection, as usual. If you can arrange a deal with another Clan before the shit hits the fan, then you can wait until just the right moment to seek vengeance for all those years of being taken for granted. It would be grand if everything could go against her AND you could gain your immortality in the process.

What is this?

SLUGS LARP at Archon 30 Game Description

2006-09-15T16:51:00.000-05:00

From the Archon gaming website:

"This is the event that brings us closer to the end of the 15 year storyling that SLUGS has brought to Archon. The event will again be for 80 players. It is not required for you to have played in any previous event as all our games are self contained. There is no preregistration for security purposes but we will again divide the registration for up to 40 players on thursday and then open again on Friday for the remaining spots. This will allow and equal chance to signup for those who cannot attend on Thursday. Individual character packets will be distributed at the 7pm manditory meeting for all interested players. This meeting will be held in the Gateway Center Mississippian Room. This event continues on Saturday night."

Faux News Network Report-News Flash 10-18-04

2006-09-15T16:49:00.000-05:00

From the SLUGS forum:

10-18-04

Beruit, Lebanon (reporting city)

Without formal declaration Israel has launched a pre-emptive strike against its neighboring nation of Syria, expending the first nuclear weapon against a civilian target in almost sixty years. Hama, a city of over four hundred thousand, was yotally destroyed when an Israeli MIRV (fig. 2) was delivered to the city center. Casualties among the target population are estimated as total, with any rescue attempts prevented by a massive firestorm after the initial blast, which consumed all structures and released huge amounts of radioactive fallout from the debris and smoke particles. Although public outcry and international condemnation runs high, there have, as yet, been no retaliatory strikes on Israeli soil.

NATO forces detected the blast in Hama immediately, say sources. World tensions have become extreme - unnamed sources report that for several minutes United States Strategic forces were placed at Defense Condition (Defcon) One, in which nuclear forces are fully prepared and await Presidential order - before dropping to a comparatively low but still unprecedneted Defcon 2, where it stands at the time of this report. Emergency political and military delegations have been sent to Israel, Syria, and neighboring states in an effort to contain and prevent the spread of future attacks.

You are in the low-spin zone. Faux News Network 24 hours a day.

More from action central news 10-16-04

2006-09-15T16:47:00.000-05:00

From the SLUGS forum:

10-16-04

TEHRAN- An official release by Iranian President Mohammad Khatami's cabinet, responding to Russia's statements on October 14 at The Hague, has categorically denied placing weaponry on the so-called "Thor's Hammer" satellite. "Iran", the statement went on to declare, "is a peaceful nation in accordance with the teachings of Islam and, although not oppossed in principle to the modification of peacetime satellites, had no involvement with the attack on Montreal, Canada. "

In the closing remarks of the Iranian release, Khomeni's government reproved Russia's accusations, calling them 'cowardly' and 'another attempt to take advantage of false prejudices against the peace-loving Iranian people, propagated by the corrupt Western media for its own political ends.'

Asked for further comment on the Montreal attack, Khatami would only state that Montreal was "a modern Sodom" and, "like that decadent city, deserved a Sodom's end."

Euroview Daily-Translated from the Italian Edition 10-14-04

2006-09-15T16:46:00.000-05:00

From the SLUGS forum:

10-14-04

Netherlands - Appearing at The Hague, President Putin continues to
head the ongoing investigation of the "Thor's Hammer" satellite project. Documents submitted by the Russian president strongly implicate that the satellite, launched from the pads of Kazakhstan's Baikonur Cosmodrome, may have been extensively and secretly modified by the Iranian government prior to liftoff. In accord with the Hague procedure, Iran's government has been granted a chance to appear and defend itself.

Euroview Daily-Translated from the Belgian Edition 10-12-04

2006-09-15T16:44:00.000-05:00

From the SLUGS forum:

MOSCOW - Russian President Putin's government has issued a quick response to NATO's report on the since-designated 'Thor's Hammer' bomb that devastated Montreal, Canada. While admitting that the weapon did in fact originate from a 2001 Russian orbital satellite, Moscow completely denies that the satellite was military in nature or that the attack on Canada was any reflection on Russia's policy. The satellite, reports Putin, was designed and built for tracking and classifying Arctic weather patterns and had no military significance whatsoever. When asked what purpose any weapon of mass destruction could have aboard a weather satellite, Putin declared that the entire project was not only Russian but also an Iranian effort, and that inquiries are currently being made with the Iranian government.

New York Daily Times-Journal 10-5-04

2006-09-15T16:41:00.000-05:00

From the SLUGS forum:

10-5-04

United Nations -- Calling upon all nations to remain calm and resourceful, a special UN commission today has officially determined the nature of the device used in the October 2 explosion in Montreal, Canada. Speaking for the press the UN Director stated that "It was definitely a sophisticated weapon of mass destruction, but we have conclusively learned that it was not nuclear, nor was it the result of an air or missile attack. The weapon exploded on the ground, making the most likely that the device was smuggled into the city or was secretly constructed there." When asked whether the weapon could be proven to be North Korean he replied that, "results are currently inconclusive as to the weapon's source." He would not comment on the ossibility that more of these weapons may exist in other cities.

As speculations proliferate and the stability of global markets continues to deteriorate due to panic selling, the UN commission has promised to make every effort to resolve the matter as soon as it possibly can.

Faux News Network Report 10-4-04

2006-09-15T16:38:00.000-05:00

From the SLUGS forum:

10-4-04

PYONGYANG: An emergency diplomatic dialogue between Chinese and North Korean ambassadors has just concluded after a heated exchange. The specifics of the meeting have not been publicly disclosed but within minutes the Chinese delegation was escorted to its motorcade and the Pyongyang airport. Many of the delegates left the meeting in a highly charged emotional state, with one of the press officers actually shouting to reporters in Mandarin that they "officially think he [Chairman Kim Jong-il] is insane.”

Moments afterward an official press release was issued by the diplomatic office of the People's Republic of China. Effective immediately, China has severed diplomatic and trade relations with North Korea and its government. All Chinese military forces and administrative personnel have been recalled back to the Chinese border. Citizens abroad in North Korea have also been instructed by their government to return home immediately, via specially chartered civilian airliners protected with priority status and Chinese security forces. The Chinese embassy has been totally closed.

No comments have yet been forthcoming from the North Korean government.

Bringing you News from the Low-Spin Zone, you are watching Faux News...

Action Central Network Newsfeed for 10-3-04

2006-09-08T14:43:00.000-05:00

"News" from the past! More information on how it all ends and this year's game begins. These events take place after the Archon 2004 Montreal LARP,

"10-3-04

In a shocking statement North Korea's chairman, Kim Jong-il, has publicly claimed full responsibility for the catastrophic detonation which occurred yesterday in Montreal, Canada. Making a brief public appearance in full military regalia he was quoted as saying,"Let no nation of the global community continue to doubt the might of North Korea or its military forces, unmatched by the forces of other nations. North Korea has demonstrated itself a superpower and will no longer tolerate the interference of the corrupt NATO governments nor of their imperialist puppet states. All nations are cautioned to remember this." Although asked whether the Montreal weapon was nuclear or conventional, the Chairman has thus far declined to specify the nature of the weapon or the means of its delivery.

With calls still flooding Montreal's overwhelmed emergency services and with hospitals filled far past capacity, the sheer extent of the atttack upon the city center is only beginning to become apparent. Authorized estimates of damages are shocking: between 40-60 percent of metropolitan Montreal wholly leveled, with a rising casualty count in the tens of thousands and property losses of at least 75 billion dollars (Canadian). There are still few comments from the city or the national government, but a local hospital director has offered a grim estimate of the human toll of this event. "We don't have a reliable figure for the total count dead yet, and in spite of our efforts many are still missing or in hospitals too backed up to treat them in time," the director, who wished to remain unidentified, commented further on the casualty count of the affected downtown areas so far. "Decimated at least, in the literal sense."

Henry Brennan (1421)

2006-09-08T14:41:00.000-05:00

Henry Brennan
9th Generation Tremere
Childe and “husband” to Sarra Brennan

Twenty years ago you were a ghoul to the Ventrue ruler of Dublin. That all changed when you met Sarra Brennan. In a private meeting with your master where you were present, she staked him. Immediately, she made you the offer of a lifetime – allow her to slay and diablerize your master and she would embrace you as her own. That was a quick and easy decision, and a clan war followed.

Over the next two years you fought it out with Ventrue through the streets of Dublin. The local populace thought that it was a series of gang wars, and that was pretty close to the truth. In 1401, Sarra negotiated a truce that put her in charge of the city and you second in command. You had now ascended.

Over the last 15 years, you and Sarra have attended various social functions of Dublin without making too big a spectacle of you. The only human of any interest is a woman named Isabella Moyglare. She is the wife of a local minister that is a ghoul of the one Cappadocian in town. You slept with and tasted her blood but couldn’t bring yourself to take her to the dark side.

Recently, a plague has taken grip on Dublin, and things have become grim. Blood is scarce, Malkavians are burning food stores, and the Ventrue are restless. Sarra says that the “red daggers” are responsible, but you thought they had been extinguished long ago. Nevertheless, she has come up with a plan in conjunction with the Cappadocian.

Under the guise of a dance/joust, Isabella’s husband and a contingent of English social elites will be meeting with a similar group of Irish in the town of Dun Boyne. This will bring all of the affected parties into the open, where the guilty can be ferreted out and dealt with. Your problem is that the Ventrue not only want Sarra’s ass on a stick, but yours as well. More than that, you have no idea where the Malkavians may be lurking. You need to remain close to those that can protect you while staying faithful to the cause that brought you to the position you’re in.

Finally, the worst thing is that you suspect the Cappadocian of being a figurehead for this whole thing and using Sarra for something rather untoward. You haven’t figured it all out yet, but you need to before the shit hits the fan. You have your trusted ghoul, Matthew Burns, for help.

So, protect your “family’s” ass, find out what the hell is going on, and fix it. The dance is a good place to get started.

What is this?

Info on this year's LARP

2006-09-07T15:33:00.000-05:00

I found this posted on the SLUGS forum,

"10-2-04

C-CAN News Radio:
Today NATO has issued announcement of a devastating explosion within the city of Montreal, Canada. Eyewitness reports of the attack describe a single, powerful blast emanating from the city's major commercial district. Within minutes of the initial explosion the city's government issued a press release stating that a "major industrial accident" had occurred near the city center and that all citizens should remain in their homes. No officials have yet consented to comment further, but a state both of emergency and of media blackout were immediately declared over the entire metropolitan area.

Reports of the extent of the damage to Montreal are at present uncertain, as a full military cordon has been established around the perimeter of the affected city center. Additionally, our network's attempts to bring our listeners coverage from our C-CAN Sky-Eye were prevented by one of several military helicopters, equipped with air-to-air missiles, now patrolling the entire city radius and interdicting all civilian traffic. No comments were available from the Canadian military but an unnamed officer present at the cordon was quoted as saying, "it just had to be a nuke."

As always our network will continue to investigate this tragedy and bring our listeners updates as soon as they develop."

This, together with a previous blurb seems to point to some sort of post-apocalyptic theme for this year. Less than a month to go, stay tuned!

Sarra Brennan (1421)

2006-09-07T15:08:00.000-05:00

Sarra Brennan
8th Generation Tremere
Prince of Dublin, Sire and “husband” of Henry Brennan

You have lived your entire life under siege. You started in France nearly a century ago fleeing inquisitors. In England, you weren’t welcome because they feared the magical aspect of the Tremere. By the time you slipped into Dublin, you were just part of a burgeoning English city under siege from the Irish.

20 years ago, when enough Tremere arrived in the city, you reintroduced yourself as Sarra Brennan. No one knows much about your history, up to and including your coup of the city. In 1400, you determined that there were enough Tremere in Dublin to put up a strong fight against the native Ventrue. So in presenting yourself to the leader of the city, he allowed you to speak with him privately. As the conversation finished and he moved to open the door, you staked him. With him lying on the floor, you called his ghoul into the room. It was obvious the ghoul was not too faithful, so he accepted your embrace on the condition that he kept the diablerie a secret. That man is now your “husband” Henry Brennan.

That act set off a two-year clan war that resulted in you having uneasy control of Dublin and the Tremere in charge. That peace is now being threatened.

A plague has beset Dublin, and your agents know exactly who’s responsible – an obscure sect of Christian priests located in Dublin seeking retribution for the persecutions over the last century. This is making blood scarce and the Ventrue are ready to make a move. Malkavians were also raiding the city. Coming up with a plan to defeat this was no small feat, but when Richard Clarke (one of the Tremere) approached you to act, you knew who to turn to – Guy leBlanc. This Cappadocian owns a minister in the Dublin government. Guy suggested, and in fact arranged, a dance/joust with some Irish leaders in a town of your suggesting - Dun Boyne.

The location was ideal because it would lure the “red daggers” into the open, because it is the perfect meeting opportunity. The Ventrue who were a threat would show up and be isolated. The Malkavians from Ireland responsible for stepping into Dublin would likely be there, also.

All you have to do is find each group’s weaknesses and exploit them to save yourself and your clan. You have brought your two ghouls (Laurence Doyle and Matthew Burns), Henry, and his ghoul (Peter Knowlan) along as help.

What is this?

David Walsh (1421)

2006-08-29T15:13:00.000-05:00

David Walsh
Ghoul and Manservant of Reginald Burke

Your life of service began 5 years ago after your father died. Your father was Master Burke’s manservant for 20 years. After he died, Reginald made sure that you would succeed your father, by giving you his blood.

Reginald has it from a good source (Adam Smith) that the plague and the famine are of a mystical creation. He suspects Guy le Blanc is behind it. Fortunately, this joust provides the perfect cover to search out the local Irish vampires to find some allies to get rid of first the Cappadocian death freaks, and then eliminate the Tremere that slew your sire.

Reginald is a great master, but you wish he would see your true value and make you a full-fledge member of the Venture Brotherhood. The other brothers you have to deal with Bernard Smith and Nicholas Burke, are poor examples of the brethren compared to Master Reginald.

A huge plague has hit Dublin where you live with Master Reginald. The outlying Irish have been hit by a famine. So to negotiate aid between the two parties the English and the Irish are meeting at a joust to discuss mutual aid and such. Your job as given to you by Master Reginald is to help him find the secrets he needs, so he can take over the city and rule like he was always meant too.

From your dealings with Bernard, you suspect that that Londoner is getting a bit long in the tooth. He is looking for a change of scenery, one way or another. You get the feeling that if Sarra isn’t out by the end of the weekend, Reginald will be.

As it stands, if you do enough for Reginald, he may follow through with his remarks about elevating your station.

What is this?

SLUGS at Archon 06 and Archon 07 a 2-part game?

2006-08-02T17:03:00.000-05:00

I was browsing the SLUGS forums and ran across this quote from Britt (El Jefe):

"The LARP that we run at Archon is based on the old WoD but we are in our final phase (this game is a 2 part, 2 year game). After that we don't know what we will do. We are still waiting to see if there would be enough support for the New WoD for us to continue that line..."

That's exciting news! Will players be able to play the same character both years if they don't die?

UPDATE:

Here is Britt's responce, "we'll never tell.
even if you 'make' me drink too much on thursday night at the con:)
we plans for you all...heheheh telling you would ruin the fun:)
remember each year is self contained even if the game at NASFiC is considered 'part 2'.
the standard rules apply to each year"

Bernard Smith (1421)

2006-08-02T16:58:00.000-05:00

Bernard Smith
10th Generation Venture

You came to this forsaken backwater of a city named Dublin about 15 years ago. You were fleeing trouble in London, namely that find out that you had commit diablerie on a pompous 9th generation Toreador that had the nerve to insult your honor. You manage to get out of London just ahead of the shit storm. You landed in Dublin where a windbag by the name of Reginald needed a little muscle. You figured that no one would find you here for a few years. To be accepted by Reginald, he forced you to make a blood bond with him (1st level).

15 years have gone by and Reginald is still plotting the take over the city once again. He says the Ventrue controlled it 5 years before you arrived, until Sarra Brennan killed the Ventrue leader. The Tremere became too powerful after that, using an army of ghouls to take the city. The Tremere are nothing but bad news. They brought the plague and witchcraft to London, and you are absolutely sure that they have done the same here.

Currently, Easter Ireland is a land in turmoil. The Irish are experiencing a famine while the English holed up in Dublin are being hit with a plague. This seems like too much of a coincidence that both are happening at the same time. Reginald agrees and thinks that this weekend will provide an opportunity to do something about it. There is a dance/joust being held in the town of Dun Boyne, and both English and Irish elite will be there. This includes Sarra Brennan and her flunkies.

So you and a few of Reginald’s entourage are off to the joust being set up by one of the Irish leaders. Your fellow Venture brother, Nicholas Burke, will be doing the honors of kicking the mortals’ asses in the event. Reginald’s lackey or ghoul, David Walsh will also be coming along to make sure the he can sleep well during the day. The last person in the party will be the magician Adam Smith. He claims to be a “priest”, but you think it is a load of shit. That man’s as much a heretic as you are in the eyes of God. You’re not sure why Reginald keeps him around, but the enemy of my enemy is my friend...or so the saying goes.

In the mean time, you feel that you have done your penance is this backwater. So, if Reginald doesn’t actually do something about the leadership of Dublin, it will be time to make an escape. If possible, you might be able to acquire a little more power in all the chaos. It worked for you last time, why not this time. Then you can move on to a place with a little more culture than the hellish whine of bagpipes. You intend to make your next stop a town where the peasants are properly cowed and they know how to treat a lord right.

If Reginald doesn’t move, then it’ll be up to you to take care of business. If he doesn’t take care of Sarra and her flunkies, you will. And then you will take care of him.

What is this?

Adam Smith (1421)

2006-07-06T19:36:00.000-05:00

Adam Smith
Priest, Order of the Red Dagger

You were left on the doorstep of the local abbey in Dublin in 1395. The priest hired a local woman to be your wet nurse for till you were old enough to enter the orphanage run by the local priests. The priests had high hopes for you. You showed a great intellect. You could illuminate like a master at the age of 12. Now at the age of 26 you are a full blown priest at the abbey you were raised at.
During you training, the local priest Lugaid O’Reilly took great interest in you. He showed you a secret sect within the church called the Order of the Red Dagger. You were initiated when you turned 21, by sacrificing a lamb to God. Your sect believes that the only way to fight the bringers of death in the world is to use the same evil means they use on the innocent and the weak. One of it’s main tenets is sacrifice is a good thing. Human sacrifice is the ultimate. Sometimes it is necessary to give up the lambs of God in order that the rest may live on. This may even mean that you have to make a deal with the devil to ensure the greater good.
A few weeks ago, Lugaid called on you to help with a ritual. This was to create a plague that would infect only witches. You went to the ritual with complete certainty that you were doing God’s work. Unfortunately, the plague has seemed to backfire in some way and has struck the populace of Dublin. The evil bitches have also unleashed a famine on the people in revenge for the plague sent on them. You must find out who the witches are, and how they turned your ritual around on the people of God.
While you can’t spend all your time creating rituals and such. You do have your spiritual calling to see to the needs of the faithful. Currently, you have developed a patron in Reginald Burke. He likes to hear you preach about the corruption of the world and how to save his soul. You let him know about the witches in the area so that he could protect himself. Other people in his household think your nuts, but when the Day of Judgment comes you know they won’t be laughing.
Reginald has invited you to attend the jousting event with him. He seems like such a honest and upright man that you couldn’t refuse. Besides, he always serves the best wine at such events. You might be able to convince Reginald to help you track down witches. His help would be invaluable.
This all leads to a quandary. If the Church ever found out about your sect you know it would be considered Heretical. You have been tipped off that there will be three papal Legates coming to this area to deliver a new Papal Dictum. One of the guards that will be traveling with them is named Robert Wogan. He may or may not know of your membership in the Order. You will have to show him your Red Handled Dagger to prove your membership to him. If he acts suspicious or refuses to show you his, then deal with him swiftly because you really don’t know what he looks like and it may be a trap sent by the Pope himself.
Seek aid from only those you can trust like your brethren, Bryan Brannaugh and Lugaid O’Reilly. Find out the witches secrets, and destroy their link to Satan. If they won’t reverse the harm they have done, sacrifice them one by one till they will. Lastly, turn the survivors over to the Papal Legates.

What is this?

Nicholas Burke (1421)

2006-07-05T22:18:00.000-05:00

Nicholas Burke
10th Generation Venture
Childe of Reginald Burke

About 40 years ago, when Dublin was controlled by the venture your great-great uncle decided that you would make a great devotee of his. He embraced you after a grand party. Since then, you have been his loyal followers.

20 years ago, Sarra Brennan, a Tremere slew the ‘prince’ of the city. For the last 20 years, you have had to keep quite and lay low. But to your eternal delight times are a changing. A plague has struck the peasants of Dublin, causing massive death tolls. While at the same time a famine has struck the Irish in the countryside. There is a jousting tournament being held by Cormac O’Reilly, (leader of the Irish Clans), Gauwyn Moyglare (the supposed Lord of Dublin). You know Gauwyn is really the ghoul of a Cappadocian vampire by the name of Guy Le Blanc.

Now, you finally have a good chance to prove yourself. Just win the jousting tournament. If you win the tournament, Reginald has agreed to let you take your first childe. That would be your new wife Generis, and prize of the joust. It should be fun, because if you can “adjust” your lance, you can really do damage to those silly humans. It will be quite obvious who is the strongest candidate in that tournament. Hell, you might even want to lay off a few side bets.

These are exciting time for your clan. The joust should provide perfect cover to regain power for the Venture, or so Reginald says. The political implications are somewhat beyond you, but you trust in Reginald. All you know is that the Tremere control Dublin and you don’t.

Also going with you is Bernard Smith, your brother in arms for the last 15 years. He showed up after escaping some trouble in London awhile back, but Reginald need to muscle so he didn’t ask too many question.

Reginald’s ghoul, David Walsh will be there to see to his needs, and also the faith healer Adam Smith will be coming to. For some reason, Reginald keeps him around, you’re not sure why, but he does.

What is this?

Reginald Burke (1421)

2006-06-27T18:57:00.000-05:00

Reginald Burke
9th Generation Venture

20 years ago, Sarra Brennan, a Tremere slew your sire and the ‘prince’ of the city. For the last 20 years, you have had to keep quite and lay low. But to your eternal delight times are a changing. A plague has struck the peasants of Dublin, causing massive death tolls. While at the same time a famine has struck the Irish in the countryside. There is a jousting tournament being held by Cormac O’Reilly, (leader of the Irish Clans), Gauwyn Moyglare (the supposed Lord of Dublin). You know Gauwyn is really the ghoul of a Cappadocian vampire by the name of Guy Le Blanc.

You have it from a good source (Adam Smith) that the plague and the famine are of a mystical creation. You have a good suspicion that Guy is behind it. Fortunately, this joust provides the perfect cover to search out the local Irish vampires to find some allies to get rid of first the Cappadocian death freaks, and then eliminate the Tremere that slew your sire.

Coming with you to the joust is Nicholas Burke, your childe. He will be your entourage’s jousting champion. If Nicholas wins, it will provide the perfect cover to start branching out to other parts of Ireland.

Also traveling with you is Adam Smith. He is a priest that can do the occasional parlor trick. He has his uses at times, but if he bothers you too much you can always use another loyal followers.

Bernard Smith will also be traveling with you. Bernard showed up about 15 years ago fleeing some trouble in London. Not about to turn away some muscle, you made him take a blood bond (1st level) with him so you could trust him. Bernard will be good to have along cause there is always strength in numbers, if you can’t win through guile, there is always a forceful takeover. Bernard can help you there.

Lastly your ghoul, David Walsh will be there to take care of your needs as befits your station. David has been a good loyal servant, if he keeps on serving well you might think about rewarding his loyalty.

The joust and surrounding events will provide you with the perfect cover to reclaim Dublin for its rightful Lords, the Venture.

What is this?

All Things Must End

2006-06-26T20:12:00.000-05:00

I was browsing the Official SLUGS Forums and found a post that hinted at the possible setting for this year's LARP,

"When the living dead triumph, the world degenerates into chaos.

All social order evaporates.

Those in power, along with their families and associates, hole up in bunkers and secure areas around the country. Secure in these shelters, originally built for the Cold War, they survive. Perhaps they continue the facade of a government command structure. Perhaps the technology is available to communicate with other agencies or even other protected world leaders. For all practical purposes, however, they are nothing more than a government-in-exile.

With the total collapse of law and order, small bands of individuals emerge to assert their authority. Looters, bandits, and common thugs prey on the survivors, taking what they want and indulging in whatever pleasure they can find. It is common at the end of any civilization to have one last massive party. As perverse as it sounds, orgies of people believing that this day is their last spring up all around the nation.

What police and military forces are left serve as protection for the government in hiding, desert in an attempt to save their families, or degenerate into bandits themselves. A total collapse in communication and transportation sweeps the globe. Isolated cities become open battlegrounds, with scattered groups of citizens fighting to defend barricaded areas from both undead and mortal renegdes.

Neglected machines eventually break down or, in some cases, blow up. Reactor meltdowns and other industrial accidents are common, polluting the landscape with toxic chemical by-products. With cities picked clean of humans, the undead fan out in search of prey. Country homes and suburban neighborhoods are torn to shreds as citizens flee, attempt to stand and fight, or wait helplessly for the monsters to devour them. The carnage is not limited to humans: The air is thick with the shrieks of farm animals trapped in pens, or even family pets trying bravely to defend their masters.

As time passes, the fires die, the explosions cease, the screams fade. Fortified areas begin to run low on supplies, forcing the occupants to face their undead attackers during foraging missions, evacuations, or battles driven by desperate insanity. Casualties will continue to mount as many well-protected and well-supplied but weak-willed humans take their own lives out of sheer despair.

The looters previously mentioned fare no better than any other human. These modern-day barbarians became such because of their disrespect for law, their hatred of organization, their choice of destruction over creation. Their nihilistic, parasitic existence feeds off the riches of others instead of producing their own. This mentality prevents them from settling down and building a new life. They are always on the run, fighting off the monsters no matter where they stop.

Even if they succeed in fending off this external threat, their need for anarchy eventually leads them to turn on each other. Many of these societies will be held together by the strong personality of a chieftain. Once he or she is gone, there will be nothing to hold the group together. A disbanded gang of thugs, wandering aimlessly through hostile ground, cannot survive forever. After several years, little will be left of these ruthless human predators.

This post-apocalyptic world will appear as a devasted landscape: burned-out cities, silent roads, crumbling homes, abandoned ships rusting offshore, gnawed and bleached bones scattered over a world now ruled by monsters. Fortunately, you will not see this, because before it happens, you will be nowhere near."

Well, that could be interesing, and bloody. Every group you meet could be out to eat, kill, maim, ect you.

Gerard Wilson (1421)

2006-06-26T20:09:00.000-05:00

Gerard Wilson
Squire to Olyver Moore

You are the squire to Olyver Moore. Olyver has trained you for the last two years to be a knight. To bad he’s a pompous windbag with a dick the size of a thimble, literally. Over the years you have heard the story of how the current Lady of Dublin, Isabella Moyglare, slept with Olyver then spread a viscous rumor that his dick was the too small to do the job adequately. To your eternal amusement, the rumors are right on. One of the most glaring problems you see with Olyver’s story is that a woman as classy as Isabella would never go whoring herself out to the likes of Olyver.

That leads you to your problem. Olyver is going to make a fool of himself if he wins the joust by denouncing Lady Isabella. This would damage your future as well as his. You need to stop Olyver from winning the joust, or jousting at all. If he doesn’t joust, you will take his place and allow you to win all the glory.

The other problem you have is that you are infatuated with Beatrix Fitzgerald. Ever since Olyver sent you on a spying mission to follow her to see if she was ‘hooking’ up with Isabella you have been smitten. If you can get into the jousting tournament, maybe you can make a good showing and impress her with your skill with a ‘lance’.

Lastly, keep an eye out. You never know what dirt you can dig up at this big of a gathering to later use to improve your social standing. Rumor’s have been floating around that the Irish are the cause of the plaque that has hit the town. Luckily no-one that you are close to has died yet, but if you can find proof that the Irish are the cause you would surely be noticed by those in power.

What is this?

ISS Photo of the Site of Ancient Carthage

2006-06-26T20:05:00.000-05:00

I ran across this photo of the site of ancient Carthage on the Earth Observatory's web site.

Site of Carthage, Tunisia

Olyver Moore (1421)

2006-06-21T19:58:00.000-05:00

Olyver Moore
Fitzgerald Champion

You are grew up on stories of chivalry and honor. You wanted to be a knight since the age of 5. Luckily enough, you family had the resources to see you properly educated and trained. At the age of 18, you were knighted. Since then you have fought in several wars. Your most glorious moment came when you brought back the head of Owain Glyndwr, the infamous welsh rebel leader. The only problem was that no one could tell that it was actually Glyndwr cause you put an axe through his forehead making him unrecognizable.

The mere fact that you boast of killing Glyndwr got you into a many of women’s bedrooms. Till word got around that you have a problem. The equipment just doesn’t measure up. Word spread through London, till you were the laughing stock of the court and city. No one would say anything to your face, but you heard the whispers in the background.

You decided to get a fresh start in Dublin. Kill a few Irishmen, and make yourself a hero again. Unfortunately, Isabella Moyglare is in Dublin too. She is the hooker that first started spread the rumors of your less than rampant rampart. What is even worse is she somehow got herself married off the Lord Moyglare, the Lord of Dublin.

This weekend there is a joust to be held. You can prove you battle prowess and use the influence that winning the joust would give to tell the world what a little hussy Isabella is. Instead of marrying an Irish slut, maybe you could give her to Lord Moyglare after you show him what a whore he is married too. You might even be able to score a few ladies if you let them know of your Welsh exploits. Do so carefully, because an enemy of your enemy is your friend, and the Welsh might have Irish connections.

Another problem you have had to deal with is your good friend Arthur Fitzgerald’s wife just died. His son is dead set on being a priest of all things, but his daughter is the troubling one. Beatrix is a sexual deviant. You caught her fondling that slut Isabella one day when you were spying on her. You don’t know how, but you must help her. Maybe getting her brothers help would be the best bet since he’s a holy kid and can talk some sense into his sister.

Accompanying you to the joust is your trusted squire Gerard Wilson. You have been training Gerard for the last 2 years. He is almost ready for his introduction into society. This will be a good test for him. Keep an eye on him so he doesn’t screw up with the ladies too badly. You don’t want what happened to you to happen to him.

More than anything you feel a need to destroy Isabella. Find out whatever you can about her so you can expose her for the harlot that she is. Revenge is best served cold.

What is this?

Bryan Fitzgerald (1421)

2006-06-20T23:01:00.000-05:00

Bryan Fitzgerald
Priest & Brother to Beatrix

You have felt a calling as long as you can remember. When you turned 13 you finally figured out what that calling was. You wanted to be a priest. You asked your father t send you t the seminary but your father didn’t have the money. So you went to your local priest, Lugaid O’Reilly and asked him what could be done. You were told that you had to study here with him for a while to see if he had the dedication and a true calling. If you did you would be sent to the seminary on a scholarship of sorts. Things were pretty normal for the first year and then he started to ask you some interesting questions. Things like how you felt about pagan religions, what were your thoughts on witches, and other such questions. He must have liked your answers because he offered you the chance to join a secret sect of the church that was dedicated to the elimination of witches. You agreed and then the weird things began to happen. He told you that these rituals and services were only taught to members of the sect and they would give you power over the witches. You felt that this was the true nature of your calling to serve God by eliminating these heretics.

A few weeks ago you were called on to help with a ritual. This was to create a plague that would infect only witches. You went to the ritual with complete certainty that you were doing God’s work. However not too long after the plague was created your mother became infected by it and she died three days ago. Not wanting to admit that your mother was a witch you went to Lugaid and he convinced you otherwise. Now that you look back on how she was you do think that things were a little bit suspicious with her. For one thing your mother and your sister, Beatrix kept some very odd hours. They were always a little on the outspoken side, and they were too comfortable going anywhere alone. Unlike other women who rarely spoke out about anything and were always scared to go anywhere alone for fear of bandits. After thinking about this for a while you resolved to keep a closer eye on Beatrix, in the hopes that you are wrong and that your mother didn’t infect Beatrix with those foul heretical beliefs. There is currently a famine affecting this area and your group has decided to try and find a way to stop it.

Watch Beatrix, cure the famine, and protect the church.

What is this?

Beatrix Fitzgerald (1421)

2006-06-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

Beatrix Fitzgerald
Witch & Sister to Bryan Fitzgerald

Your mother has been teaching you to be a witch practically since you were born. This Saturday was to have been the night that you were to be initiated into the coven by your mother. Unfortunately your mother died three days ago and now you have to fill your mother’s place within the coven. This means growing up in a hurry and giving up your wild, trusting youth.

The first festival that you were allowed to go to alone you met up with a man and the two of you went into an empty barn. Needles to say you loved it. Ever since you have been sneaking out to other villages beyond the pale to sell yourself for either money or fresh water. You tend to use your real first name whenever you are with anyone that is Irish, passing yourself off as of Norman descent. You realized that you like (like – as in biblically) English women, one in particular, Isabella Moyglare the wife of a Dublin minister. One night with her you made the mistake of letting the fact that you are a witch, and that you are responsible for the famine that is ravaging the Irish countryside slip. You have also told Gerard that you are a witch. In fact you can’t seem to keep the secret of your being a witch a secret.

Your father and your brother have both been concerned about the company you keep and about the odd hours that your sewing circle meets. Your father was an English soldier and retired to marry your mother. Your brother is learning from the priest and wants to go into the priesthood. Neither of them would approve of your being a witch.

Your initiation was moved up because Áine needed a full coven for some ritual that will stop the plague that your mother died from. You are determined that nothing should go wrong with the ritual. Áine told you about the ritual and about why they needed Generis. She also told you about the joust and Generis being the prize. You will do anything necessary to stop the joust from taking place.

Keep your mouth shut, help Áine, and stop the joust.

What is this?

Arthur Fitzgerald (1421)

2006-06-05T21:39:00.000-05:00

Arthur Fitzgerald

You had a great life. You were a soldier in the English army and you managed to live till you could retire. You had a beautiful wife and two wonderful children. Then things changed. You found out that your wife was a witch, your son wants to be a priest, and your daughter began acting strange. You have dealt with these things as best as you can but lately it has been wearing on you.

For the last two years your family has begun acting very strange. Your son spends more time at the church than at home. You tried to make him give up his idea of becoming a priest by telling him that you didn’t have the money to send him to the seminary, but he has obviously found a way around that. Your wife has been out late almost ever evening with her “sewing circle” and your daughter is usually with her. Even when your daughter is not with your wife she is gone, sometimes for days at a time. You have a feeling that Beatrix is going to become a witch and a heretic. She already can’t keep quiet about it, and you know that she isn’t one. Isabella Moyglare always says that she is with her but you have your doubts.

Three days ago your wife died from a plague that is beginning to hit the area. You were both distraught and relived at the same time. You were distraught because you loved your wife however you were relieved because you don’t want your daughter to follow the same path that your wife did. Your wife was a witch, but you loved her anyway. You can only hope that it’s not too late for Beatrix. Because your too busy dealing with all the headaches that women have caused, you give your son full support in his quest to be one with God.

Currently, you are afraid that Beatrix will become an old spinster if she keeps going in the direction she is headed. You need to marry her off, and in a hurry. This weekend, there is a social in Dun Boyne. Both English and Irish dignitaries will be there. That should provide the perfect backdrop to make a deal to marry off your daughter before her mouth really lands her in trouble. If only you could find a way to shut her up, because no secret is safe with her.

Your old friend, Olyver Moore has also become more agitated recently, and is going with you to Dun Boyne to enter the joust. He is bringing his squire, Gerard. Since the Irish O’Reilly’s have offered their virginal daughter up as first prize, you can only assume he is looking for a wife. That’s probably a good thing, because Beatrix is definitely not interested. Last month at dinner, she blurted out that his codpiece was a bit small...Your only worry about Olyver is that he may want to win the joust a little bit too much. You don’t know what he is capable of.

Keep an eye on Beatrix and marry her off. Help your son in any way you can, and protect your family.

What is this?

Drew Desmond (1421)

2006-05-25T19:38:00.000-05:00

Drew Desmond
Liegeman to William Hughes

When Lord Moyglare set foot in Dublin a few years ago, he began to hire locals. You managed to get hired on as liege to William Hughes for a small flat in Dublin.

Since then you have learned to handle a sword and lance with some proficiency. Sir Theobald has few people to practice with in the area, so you and Hughes picked up the skills and serve in that capacity.

Theobald is the brother to Lady Moyglare. You rarely see the Lord or Lady wandering their manor, as they are off doing the various “duties of the state”. No matter, you are always preparing for the inevitable Irish assault on Dublin.

Lately, a plague has stricken Dublin, and rumor has it that a famine is affecting Ireland proper. That has reduced the number of skirmishes between the English and Irish. In fact, it appears they are going to meet in Dun Boyne.

Earlier this month, Hughes informed you that you would be accompanying him and a large entourage to Dun Boyne, a day’s ride beyond the Pale. There would be a jousting tournament to determine the best fighters in the land without resorting to bloodletting. The prize is the O’Reilly’s daughter, Generis. If there is an open slot in the tournament, he might take your chances.

Around the Manor, the word is that Moyglare is going to try to get fresh water from the Irish by trading Barley from Wales. It is up to you and Hughes to protect the Moyglares from any Irish shenanigans.

The big secret you know about is Isabella Moyglare. William Hughes has lost it for her. Apparently, they are having an affair and he thinks that “true love” exists between them. Fat chance. You diddled Isabella last month, and you know she has slept with half of Dublin. When Hughes isn’t around, you and Sir Theobald joke about the slut that she is. Since both of you need her to remain married to Lord Moyglare, neither of you breathe a word of this to anyone else.

Hughes told you yesterday that he suspects Lord Moyglare’s advisor, Guy le Blanc, of wrongdoing. Lord Moyglare referred to leBlanc as “master” when Hughes was nearby. Neither of you have had time to say a word to anyone, but this secret could come in handy, later.

As low man on the totem pole, your secrets and connections could give you the opportunity to rise through the ranks quickly this weekend in Dun Boyne.

What is this?

Richard Clarke (1421)

2006-05-24T21:03:00.000-05:00

Richard Clarke
9th Generation Tremere
Guard and Sire to Michael Phillips

Your first memories as an undead are traumatic. You were walking your normal guard duty deep in the cellars of London Tower, when you passed an area where the French were being held. The puddles of water you normally walked through became red with blood, and by the time you looked up, you’d been had. Needing an ally, the prisoner killed and embraced you. You led him out of the prison, but after a week your sire was killed in an ambush set up by Ventrue. It turns out that the Tremere were hunted – blamed in part for the plague that was besetting London. You quickly fled the city and over the next 6 months, made your way to Dublin. That town was also wracked with the plague (it lost 1/3 of its population), but it was easier to remain hidden. You quickly embraced someone to keep you company and enlist as an ally, he was a ‘nobody’ named Michael Phillips.

Until about 20 years ago, the two of you had to lie low, staying out of Ventrue sight. At that time Sarra Brennan was able to slay the head of the city. That started a two-year clan war, with the Tremere able to force a truce and Sarra in control of Dublin.

5 years ago, you and Phillips attached to Lord Moyglare. He arrived from England under the orders of Henry V to take command of Norman Ireland. Well, the Irish – Toreador Irish, control Norman Ireland. And a Cappadocian fool controls Moyglare. If you two could somehow get Moyglare to listen to you, then maybe you could accomplish something worthwhile.

Recently, in mundane affairs, a plague has struck Dublin. People are falling left and right from it, and the root of it is in the water that feeds the northern part of town. The Irish in the countryside have watched their fields grow barren. No one knows why. This has had two unpleasant side effects for you: blood is more difficult to come by and the Malkavian Irish have been entering Dublin bent on destroying the food storage. Phillips has urged Moyglare to organize a raiding party into the countryside, but he refuses to listen. You appealed to Sarra to do something.

After a few days, she informed you that there was going to be a meeting of the English and Irish in Dun Boyne. More than that, additional measures had been taken to stop the plague and famine, for the good of everyone. The meeting is going to be a festival – dance and joust – designed to allow the leaders of the Irish and English to work out a food for water deal.

This meeting presents you with a number of grand opportunities. First, you can single out and extract revenge on a few Ventrue. You can find out what Sarra meant by “additional measures” and how she set up this meeting. You might even be able to usurp her power under the right conditions. Phillips seems particularly eager to kick some Malkavian ass, but you have no idea who they are, so finding them and formulating a plan is also a priority…So many things, so little time…one does what one can.

What is this?

William Hughes (1421)

2006-05-23T02:49:00.000-05:00

William Hughes
Man-at-Arms to Lord Moyglare

You have been trained since birth to be a man-at-arms. You were just a lowly soldier until you met a very special woman: Isabella. Although she was the wife of an English Lord (Gauwyn Moyglare), you two were meant to be. After that first night of tremendous lovemaking, a transfer was “arranged” to the Lord’s personal contingent. While Moyglare was away on the French Campaign, you were assigned to guard “the castle” (heh-heh). When he got back, he brought a new French advisor, Guy leBlanc. Almost immediately Lord Moyglare (and everyone else) packed up and left for Norman Ireland.

That was 6 years ago. Since then, things have changed a little. Norman Ireland doesn’t exist, leaving your Lordship to look important without being so. Mr. leBlanc has made increasing demands on Moyglare, and the Lady is frequently engaged in the social activities of the upper class, although she manages to steal away some time for you. You’ve become more prone to listening to his other advisor, Michael Phillips. Besides, Mr. Phillips isn’t French vermin.

All of the demands on the Lord and Lady have left you and the two other guards, Richard and Drew, plenty of time to train with the Lady’s brother, Valentine. Richard is a strange one and is the personal guard of Michael Phillips – Moyglare’s other advisor. Drew is your liege and Drew always has time to spare. Valentine is a knight, technically, but has no land or money to show for it. Over the years he has learned to use a sword and lance, and has participated in a few battles and tournaments, he even went on the French Campaign with Moyglare. You and the two guards have managed to pick up some skills with the lance since Valentine hasn’t had a partner to practice with. (You guys could already use a sword and halberd).

Earlier this month, Lord Moyglare informed you that you would be accompanying him and a large entourage to Dun Boyne, a day’s ride beyond the Pale. There would be a jousting tournament to determine the best fighters in the land without resorting to bloodletting. The prize is the O’Reilly’s daughter, Generis. If there is an open slot in the tournament, you might take your chances. Isabella can have a husband; it’s about time you won a wife.

Last week, as you were about to deliver a message to Lord Moyglare, you overheard him having a conversation with Mr. leBlanc. Moyglare referred to leBlanc as “Master”. You left unseen and delivered it later. You haven’t had a chance to discuss this with Valentine, Mr. Phillips or Isabella, but mentioned it to your liege. LeBlanc must have some magical power over your Lordship.

Try your best to be faithful to Isabella, protect your interests, your ass, and your Lordship.

What is this?

SLUGS Bulletin Board

2006-05-19T00:11:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm a little late in posting this, but SLUGS has put up their own official web bulletin board. You can find it at the following link:

SLUGS BB

Sign up and join us in discussing SLUGS LARP and other sundry topics.

Michael Phillips (1421)

2006-05-18T23:42:00.000-05:00

Michael Phillips
10th Generation Tremere
Advisor to Lord Moyglare, childe of Richard Clarke

You work in a rather unusual position. You advise a Lord that never listens, and you outrank a person that tells you what to do.

You have lived in Dublin for about 70 years, embraced as a man in your 30’s during the Black Death of the 1350’s by Richard Clarke, who was fleeing England proper. Until about 20 years ago, the two of you had to lie low, staying out of Ventrue sight. At that time Sarra Brennan was able to slay the head of the city. That started a two-year clan war, with the Tremere able to force a truce and Sarra in control of Dublin.

5 years ago, you attached yourself to Lord Moyglare. He arrived from England under the orders of Henry V to take command of Norman Ireland. Well, the Irish – Toreador Irish, control Norman Ireland. And a Cappadocian fool controls Moyglare. If you could somehow get Moyglare to listen to you, then maybe you could accomplish something.

Recently, in mundane affairs, a plague has struck Dublin. People are falling left and right from it, and the root of it is in the water that feeds the northern part of town. The Irish in the countryside have watched their fields grow barren. No one knows why. This has had two unpleasant side effects for you: blood is more difficult to come by and the Malkavian Irish have been entering Dublin bent on destroying the food storage. You have urged Moyglare to organize a raiding party into the countryside, but he refuses to listen. Clarke appealed to Sarra.

After speaking with Sarra, Clarke informed you that there was going to be a meeting of the English and Irish in Dun Boyne. More than that, additional measures had been taken to stop the plague and famine, for the good of everyone. The meeting is going to be a festival – dance and joust – designed to allow the leaders of the Irish and English to work out a food for water deal.

This meeting will present you with several opportunities. You can start by using the dance to identify the Irish kindred and work out a revenge plan against the Malkavian. You can also get in better with Sarra to figure out what the hell she knows that everyone else doesn’t. Finally, getting Moyglare and his guards on your side could provide the extra firepower you need at the critical time.

What is this?

Sir Valentine Theobald (1421)

2006-05-16T19:30:00.000-05:00

Sir Valentine Theobald
Knight – Order of the Black Hawthorn

You were born to a family in London that lived off the streets. You and your sister made money as best you could, through prostitution and intimidation. She was good looking enough to keep the company of lesser nobles in the city, and you were big enough to take “protection money” from some of the local merchants.

One day she was attending the party of a new Lord (Moyglare), and caught the man’s eye. Through her guile and charm, she completely deceived him. They married 3 months later and you were made a knight out of the deal.

Training with the sword and lance came easy, and after a few months Henry V assembled a force to invade France. Lord Moyglare took you with and unknowingly left Isabella to screw anything she could get her hands on. The campaign in France was only 3 months, and ended in Agincourt – the great English victory. You fought bravely, but unexceptionally. Moyglare was injured after being sick for 3 days. A French prisoner named Guy leBlanc, who ended up coming back as Moyglare’s personal aide, saved him.

Since your return, Isabella has held a particular fascination with Guy leBlanc; you’ve never seen her attached to anyone like that. Of course, it hasn’t stopped her from sleeping around, but that’s another story.

It turns out that Moyglare is the Lord of part of Ireland - a part of Ireland that doesn’t exist. Irishmen have taken it over. 5 years ago all he and his contingent moved to Dublin and now you all live on a manor inside the city. You have made good friends with his trusted guard, William Hughes and practice jousting and sword fighting with him and the other two guards regularly.

Here is what you know:
• Isabella is a very popular woman in Dublin, and William is but one of her MANY lovers. Both Moyglare and William think they are the only ones…
• Michael Phillips tries to advise Moyglare, but for some reason, the lord won’t listen. Nothing seems is able to get Moyglare to stray too far from leBlanc.
• The plague in Dublin is terrible, but not nearly as bad as the famine hitting the Irish who live beyond the Pale.

This weekend Moyglare has arranged a meeting with the Irish leader in the town of Dun Boyne. They are going to attempt to stabilize relations so that each can deal with his particular calamity. They are holding a dance and a joust. The prize for the joust is the sister of the Irish Leader, Generis O’Reilly. You have heard rumors that she is a fine woman and would provide many good children who are well connected inside and outside of Dublin. It wouldn’t be above you to find a way to sabotage the outcome of the joust…maybe if you enlisted Isabella’s help.

What is this?

Isabella Moyglare (1421)

2006-05-15T23:39:00.000-05:00

Isabella Moyglare
Ghoul to Guy le Blanc
Lady of Norman Ireland – Wife to Lord Moyglare

Some women are lucky to get everything they want in life, and you are one of them. Your needs are simple, you wish for only money and sex, and they have been taken care of in fine stead.

Until 6 years ago, you were no better than an overpaid prostitute working with your brother (who took “protection money”) to make out a living, but then things changed. You were attending a very upscale party with a local patron and met the guest of honor, Gauwyn Moyglare. He had just been made Lord of the Norman Irish. You used your guile and charm to seduce him and become his wife. That was great because you had access to all of the men and money you could dream of.

After your Lord came back from the French campaign in 1415, he brought a friend with him - Guy leBlanc. It was just days before you had him in your bed, but that turned out to work against you, now you are his ghoul. Turns out that Gauwyn is, too. So other than possessing this dark secret, life is normal.

Lord Moyglare took you to Ireland and you found out that “Lord” Moyglare wasn’t such a big shot after all. He was the master of a land that had been overrun by Irish. So the bad news was that he wasn’t so rich, but here you were a Lady, and not snickered at in the dark corners of the court. As a bonus you were able to bring along the steadfast lover and guard of Lord Moyglare, William Hughes. Through all of it all, you and your brother have remained close and share secrets.

Currently, Gauwyn is so tied up with business that taking on new lovers hasn’t been a problem. You are the most well connected person in Dublin. This has allowed you to find out a bit about the plague in Dublin and the famine outside of the city.

First, a priest named Adam Smith talks in his sleep. Because of this, you know that a small sect of fanatics are responsible for the plague that has beset Dublin. Second, since you swing from both sides of the plate, you have been with the Fitzgerald lady Beatrix. It turns out that she’s a witch and “just between women” the witches started the famine outside of the city. A church official has informed you that “Papal representatives are on the way”. Finally, Olyver Moore’s sword isn’t the only thing that’s a bit short and Welshmen wear kilts for a reason.

This weekend, there is a jousting tournament outside of Dublin. It is being used to front a negotiation between the O’Reilly’s and Lord Moyglare. To make the joust seem legitimate, O’Reilly has put his daughter up as the prize. You would love to find out what the Irish are “hiding” and maybe they will trade a bit of this information (and money) for the feel of an English Lady.

What is this?

Gauwyn Moyglare (1421)

2006-05-12T03:27:00.000-05:00

Gauwyn Moyglare
Ghoul to Guy le Blanc
Lord of Norman Ireland, importation minister to Dublin

In 1412, your family moved into a higher station as part of a deal. A duke wanted to marry your sister. As part of the deal to win your sister, King Henry V granted you the task of administrating Norman Ireland from Dublin proper.

Before you were able to leave on your assignment you found and married the love of your life, Isabella. Henry also ordered you to accompany him on his campaign to crush the French and end the long war once and for all. At Agincourt (St. Crispin’s Day, 1415), you were critically injured and rescued by a man who gave you a gift that keeps on giving – he made you his ghoul.

That was six years ago. Now, the Normans are virtually gone. They are Irish now. So you’re stuck in Dublin, trying to be important. Last year’s Irish harvest was horrible, so the Irish beyond the Pale are restless. Worse, there is a plague going around Dublin. It looks like it is from the water, but no one knows for sure.

Your advisor has arranged a meeting with the ruling clan (O’Reilly’s) in Dun Boyne. This will allow you to trade some of your imported Barley for fresh water from Ireland. The meeting is set up as a dance/joust, and there are serious stakes involved. Cormac O’Reilly has offered his sister to the winner. If an Englishman wins, you may have leverage in your negotiations. If an Irishman wins, they may gain the confidence to invade Dublin.

Now for toils of being leader:

1: Your other advisor (Michael Phillips, Tremere) is really wearing on you. He has good advice, but your bond is to Guy. If only you could break that bond and implement some of Michael’s ideas.

2: The Fitzgerald’s are making land and marriage requests, but they have no available women for Valentine. They think they are entitled to compensate for losses in Meath. They just might settle for cash (which you don’t have presently). The did bring a cousin, Olyver Moore, to the Jousting competition, however…

3: The Burke’s are making the same request, but worse yet, they want their worthless cousin, Adam Smith out of their hair AND they want that pansy Nicholas Burke enlisted as an officer in the military.

4: The Brennan’s expect special treatment just because they are coming. Sarra (loosely, the Prince of Dublin) definitely wears the pants in that family and you wish you could put her in her proper place.

You hope the dance following the Joust will calm some of the nerves moving through the place. The Preston’s have been nice enough to lend you their property to hold all of the events in the next few days.

What is this?

Guy leBlanc (1421)

2006-05-02T19:33:00.000-05:00

Guy leBlanc
7th generation Cappadocian Vampire
“Advisor” to Lord Moyglare (Lord of Norman Ireland, importation minister to Dublin)
Sire to Úna O’Reilly

You can barely remember when you were let loose on the world, some 150 years ago. It has been a glorious century for the Cappadocians, lovers of death, and loners in the world. You, however, are a different breed. By teaming with a female, you have been able to wreak havoc on a scale that only Mother Nature can rival. Your partner is going by the name Úna O’Reilly, and it has taken you both about 10 years to put yourselves in this position. You were hanging out in the court of Henry V when he assigned a no name (Moyglare) to rule Norman Ireland. As you were about to approach him, orders came down for the invasion of France. As fate would have it, a French sword struck down the slug you were following after they invaded the base camp. You let him suffer for about 5 or 6 hours and then offered him the chance to be your ghoul. He accepted.

Now you are his “advisor” in Dublin. By the time you arrived in Ireland, Úna had placed herself with the leader of the O’Reilly’s and the Normans no longer existed thanks to her and her ghoul. This left you in a fairly weak position and pissed you off to no end. You let Úna know about it in no uncertain terms. During the beat down, Úna devised a plan. She would use her contacts to hire the witches in Ireland proper to start a famine in the fields and put you in touch with an obscure Christian sect in Dublin to start a plague (they had grown tired of being persecuted by English). Once the plan was started, you would hire the fanatics to stop the famine (since it was a travesty against nature) and she would hire the witches to stop the plague (since it was obviously of magical origin).

Well, everything is going better than planned. The Irish want to import barley from England and the English in Dublin want to bring in fresh water from Ireland. More than that, Sarra Brennan (the Tremere Prince) approached you and asked if you could arrange something with the Irish, since Malkavians were entering the city in a most unwelcome fashion. So you and Úna arranged a meeting in Dun Boyne, just beyond the Pale. The pretense for the meeting is a jousting match and dance. The Irish leader has put his daughter up as the prize, making it a very important event. Given that all of the petty families of Dublin (human and kindred) are coming to demand land, marriages, and revenge, death and mayhem are sure to break out there.

It is your job to make negotiations between Lord Moyglare and the O’Reilly’s as long and protracted as possible to quietly incite the Irish to war. If that doesn’t work, you will have him raise taxes on all “non-citizens” (Irish) tomorrow night. Also, you can have him demand tribute in the form of money or one able bodied male to ship off to the Burgundians.

As an “ace in the hole”, you know full well that Isabella (Lady Moyglare) has been carrying on an affair with one of the family’s most trusted guards, William Hughes, for at least 6 years and basically fucks anything that moves.

What is this?

Jacob Preston (1421)

2006-04-19T19:07:00.000-05:00

Jacob Preston

You are the son of Finán Preston and the brother of Kateryn. Your mother died giving birth to Kateryn and you have had to assume a lot of the duties of the estate you live on from an early age. Your father deals with a lot of things, but you have been required to be a man about things from the age of 10.

When you were 17, you went for an outing with some friends to the town of Trim, in south Meath. There, you decided to pick up a local prostitute and have some fun, but she ended up getting pregnant with your child. You married her 6 months into the pregnancy. 1 month later, she miscarried.

Since then she has lived a life of despondency. First, she attempted suicide, then she attacked you with a knife, finally, you think she is reverting to her old ways of promiscuity. She never learned to act like a real lady, and derives her only real joy driving your father crazy.

Well, your father has a plan. Your family is hosting a social where both English and Irish are invited. You expect dignitaries from both sides to attend. There will be a dance on Friday and a joust on Saturday. The reality is that there is a potential food for water swap happening because Dublin is plague-ridden and Ireland is under famine. Both have affected your people. If you could get your hand in one or both of those pots, it would be a coup.

Your father has ordered Matilda to clean herself up this weekend, and intends to find a priest who will annul your marriage, on the basis that you never consummated, and that she is barren. That’s no skin off your teeth. You can’t stand her anyway. Maybe you can trade her for food or water.

You and your father have discussed how this weekend is going to work, and a lot of things need to happen. First, you have to find a priest to annul the marriage. Second, you have to find an adequate suitor for Matilda and marry her off before he finds out about her past. You’ve heard that Cormac O’Reilly is offering his daughter up as a prize for the joust; perhaps he will allow you to offer Matilda up as second prize. Third, you need to make sure that things go well at the dance and the joust. Finally, you and your father will be responsible for the lances to be used during the competition on Saturday. People may want to make “adjustments” to the equipment, and a little money will go a long way towards making Kateryn’s dowry significant.

Your father tends to get into trouble by making promises to both sides (the English and Irish). Even though they are meeting on peaceful terms this weekend, it is important to remember that these people really hate each other, and the lid could blow at any time. If your father promises Kateryn to the wrong side (or both) too early, it could prove disastrous.

As for the meetings, they need to go off without a hitch. The last thing you need is to have a major conflict start on your estate. Both sides are likely to blame you for it and confiscate the Preston estate.

What is this?

Matilda Preston (1421)

2006-04-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

Matilda Preston

You were born to a very poor family in the town of Trim, south Meath. One day, when you were 15, a man named Jacob Preston was visiting the tavern you were selling yourself in. He purchased your wares and one thing led to another…you were pregnant with his child. He married you before your 16th birthday after being coerced by your parents and his father.

6 months into the pregnancy, you miscarried and it left you barren. Jacob and his father, Finán have treated you like it is your fault, and now, 5 years later, you are still despondent. Your ongoing depression has manifested itself in many forms. Suicide attempts when you were 18, knife waving at Jacob on various occasions, and now finally, promiscuity. It seems nothing will get his attention.

You have developed very little regard for life, yours or others’. Bathing very little nowadays and crass about most things, you develop a special joy grating Finán’s nerves any way you can.

This weekend, Finán is hosting a huge gathering of English and Irish dignitaries. Ostensibly, they are getting together for a dance Friday night and a joust Saturday night. You know for a fact that they are going to be discussing the problems besetting the area. In Dublin, there is a plague and they do not have enough fresh water. In Ireland, there is famine, so they are short on food. There is going to be negotiations surrounding a food/water swap between these natural enemies.

Rumor on the manor has it that your husband Jacob and Finán are going to attempt to have your marriage annulled this weekend. Then they are going to pawn you off on some unsuspecting soul before they find out about your past. Well, not bloody likely, you say. If something goes wrong at all with this weekend’s events, then it will be a pure nightmare for both Finán and your poor excuse for a husband, Jacob.

It will be a tight rope to walk between your personal death and a Preston nightmare, but perhaps you can finally extract revenge for the way you’ve been treated over the past 5 years.

Your proclivities have netted you a bit of extra information to help you.
• You personally know the guard that will be guarding the lances for the joust Saturday night. If someone is looking to rig the event, you could acquire some cash to support yourself after this weekend.
• There is a coven of witches in the area. Beatrix Fitzgerald gabbing about it to you after a 3-way with you and Cellach Fitz-Dermot (a guard of the O’Reilly’s).
• Some Welshmen are going to arrive to assist Fergus O’Sullivan in making the life of the English hell over the course of the weekend. You have no idea how, but perhaps Fergus would trade some information for a wild ride with you.

Good Luck!

What is this?

Kateryn Preston (1421)

2006-02-10T01:02:00.000-06:00

Kateryn Preston

Your mother died giving birth to you 17 years ago. Your father, Finán, is a wealthy landowner in the town of Dunne Boyne. He and your brother Jacob take extreme cautions in protecting your virginity. You never leave the house without escort. You are whisked away any time conflict appears imminent. Finally, a guard is stationed outside of your room on a nightly basis.

None of this bothers you; you only want to do what is best for the family. The guilt of killing your mother troubles you to this day. If there were just some way you could make up for it, you would be happy.

Your faith in God has put you through to this point in life, and your father intends on marrying you off this weekend for political gain. You hope it is to the Irish, because you speak Gaelic in your normal activities. You probably wouldn’t get along with any of the upper class Englishmen.

This weekend is a big social that your father is hosting. Friday night is a dance, and Saturday night is a joust. Your father is letting you roam around on your own to find a man to your suiting, but he reserves the right to make the final choice. You know that all of the major players from Dublin and Cavan/Meath are going to be there. If you had your druthers, you would find a Kelly to marry off to. They are a secretive clan that teaches the poor children of the area behind the backs of the English. You love their compassion, and know that the patriarch of the clan, Trian, is available. He is older, but what man wouldn’t have interest in a fine, pure maiden like you.

Your father doesn’t know about your preferences yet, but the dance would be the perfect venue to introduce him to your favorites.

As for your family, the only other member of significance is Matilda. She is a tragic figure. She married your brother after she got pregnant 5 years ago then miscarried after the wedding. The rumor is that the baby wasn’t even his. That couple has been totally unhappy, and you think that Matilda is capable of killing your brother. She loves grating on your father’s nerves, but there’s nothing you can do about it.

You’ve heard rumors on the estate that a few of the Irish have been up to no good. It is rapidly becoming no secret that Fergus O’Sullivan burns the food stocks in Dublin. This just compounds the problems they are having with the plague. As for Ireland proper, they are under famine.

You know that a sewing circle meets once a week so that the women can gossip and share tips. You would love to get involved in this, because you are quite a good seamstress yourself. Áine O’Toole is the senior member of this group, and the O’Casey twins (Gráinne and Dearbháil) also attend.

There are a lot of things to do and find out about this weekend, be careful!

What is this?

Finán Preston (1421)

2006-01-30T10:38:00.000-06:00

Finán Preston
Owner of Estate

You were born 35-40 years ago in Norman Ireland (Dunne Boyne) to a rather wealthy family. You’ve led a rough life since then.

You inherited the Preston estate from your father 20 years ago at the age of 15 and were married off within a year by your uncle, who acted as your regent. By the time you were 18 you had 2 children and your wife died giving birth to the second one. By the time you were 20 you had arranged to have that despicable uncle taken care of.

Over the last 15 years, you have raised your two kids (Jacob and Kateryn) and somehow managed to hold onto the entire estate by housing both English and Irish during the battles between them. Now, peace has broken out because a plague has stricken Dublin and famine is gripping Ireland.

Last month, Úna O’Reilly asked you to host a social event so that Irish and English dignitaries could meet. She indicated that Cormac O’Reilly would put his daughter, Generis, up as the prize for a joust. Úna is the type of woman you don’t refuse, so you set it up. Besides, it opens up a number of opportunities.

This weekend is the meeting. Friday night is the dance, and Saturday night is the joust. It will be up to you to protect the lances between Friday and Saturday, so you will have an opportunity to make some extra cash by allowing individuals to “prepare” their equipment. Only you and Jacob have access to the lances.

There are a number of single, wealthy men on both the English and Irish side. If you can marry off Kateryn (virginity intact!) by the end of the joust, you could seal an alliance with the winning side of the conflict when it resumes. Just make sure you know which side will win the conflict before you promise her away. Of course, you could promise her to two people and make sure someone really loses before the end of the weekend.

As for your son, he is married to Matilda. This woman is grating in every way possible. She has no social skills, never bathes, and has breath that will kill livestock. Jacob got her pregnant and married her because he is a good man. Then the wench miscarried, so he is stuck with her. You have ordered her to be cleaned up on pain of death so that you can marry her off to another man before he realizes what he bought. You also need to get a priest to annul the marriage (on the basis that it was never consummated, and that she is barren) while you accomplish this. Perhaps a land grant will grease the church wheels.

Finally, you have heard that some Welsh rebels might show up. These pigs could throw a wrench into everything, so any distraction you provide them would be a bonus. You won’t be able to eject them from your premises without getting the permission of Lord Moyglare AND Cormac O’Reilly.

Keep your nose in everything, get those women married off, and make sure it all goes smoothly.

What is this?

Blavock Shayan (1421)

2006-01-20T10:31:00.000-06:00

Blavock Shayan
You are a Human Warrior working for an Unseelie Boggan.

He has promised you a seat on the Unseelie Court if you can bring down 25 bodies into the sacred town pool.
You met him during the battle of Agincourt. You were going to die when he found you and offered you eternal life if you did his bidding or he would spare you the indignity of dying in retreat and eat your soul. At first you just thought it was the loss of blood but you said, “ Fine, my family would disown me if they knew I retreated.”

When you woke up you were in a cave and you saw this odd man chewing on what looked like soft deer meat. Upon closer inspection you noticed that he was pulling this ‘meat’ off of bodies he had in a pile in a corner, even though no flesh seemed to be actually coming off of the bones of these dead warriors who died with you. You saw the bodies of both sides as well. “C’mere young Blavock, taste Eternity!” He said with a smile. You realized that you had come in contact with the dreaded Daoine Sidhe (death fairy) but this guy never liked it when you called him that, he was insistent that he was a Boggan and you ‘damned better get to thinking that way’.

He also told you he did you a favor and woke you up from your ‘bad dream’ that had you running off like some silly Pooka. In time you did realize that you are indeed a Sidhe but by making this contract of not dying to this Boggan that you turned your back on the Spring and now work the Will of the Fall.

You still don’t have a permanent seat on the court as of yet but if you can bring 25 freshly dead bodies to defile the sacred pool of Cavan (that the Pooka and Sidhe created) you will have a permanent seat. Oh did we mention that you can’t kill them yourself because your weapons cannot kill anyone (though they DO weaken them). You have to get others to do the ‘final act’ as they say in Arcadia. It is better to at least plan destruction than to just randomly follow it around like you have for 7 years.

A Fae has weaknesses though; Magic and Cold Steel...which of the latter there is plenty to go around. Thankfully due to the influence of the Catholic ‘Church’ there are many that no longer believe in the power of magic…even though it does exist and works damned well thank you.
If other things than cold steel ‘kill’ you, you will ‘miraculously’ recover from your mortal wounds. This may make you seem like a miracle but you have seen many times that most priests will blow it off as luck and run away. Of course the dreams you give them when they are asleep seem to help this…

What is this?

Reys le Waleys (1421)

2006-01-18T09:06:00.000-06:00

Reys le Waleys

You were born in Wales to an English resistance fighter and hero. He died when you were 6 while fighting those monsters. Your mother picked up the family and moved to Dublin as the English moved into your village to burn everything. You never forgot that. You mother sent you to receive your education at a Norman Monastery in English controlled lands, but Irish by tradition. You quit by the time you were 15 and began to work regular jobs.

Over the last few years, you have made English life in Dublin a living hell. You salt fields when you get the money, kill livestock, and steal from those that are better off. All through that time, you’ve managed to keep in touch with the real fighters in Wales.

Now, after 5 years of that, an opportunity has come. You have received word from your father’s old friends that a few Welshmen were coming to town. William is invited to a huge social in the town of Dun Boyne that will provide the perfect opportunity to size up the English and court Irish allies. You already know of one in particular. Fergus O’Sullivan. Ever since the plagues began again in Dublin last year, he’s been sneaking into town and burning the English food stores. It’s amazing he has the energy, because of the Irish famine that is taking place.

Your contacts have found out that this meeting isn’t just a joust/dance. It is a chance for the English and Irish leaders to meet each other and discuss a possible food for water exchange. If those two parties reach any agreement, it would not look good for Wales.

As a bonus, your brother claims to have found a way to fix the problems the Irish are having. It involves the casting of a spell. He is a member of a small sect of priests known as the Order of the Red Daggers. They would easily be condemned as heretical if church officials ever found out, but it doesn’t bother you. Family ties are the kind that bind. You do whatever you can to make sure that his secret is safe. If what he says about fixing the famine is true, you might be able to stop the Irish from dealing with the English in Dublin.

You have met the Welshmen (Seysild O’Loinsigh and Cadugan O’Ceallaigh) and have hooked up with your brother in the town of Dun Boyne. All that’s left is to find Fergus and you will be on your way. That crazy bastard should have a few ideas on how you can raise hell at this party without exposing yourself to the authorities.

Well, you have a lot to do this weekend, so go save the mother land.

What is this?

William le Waleys (1421)

2006-01-13T09:01:00.000-06:00

William le Waleys
Priest of the Order of Red

You were born in Wales to an English resistance fighter and hero. He died when you were 6 while fighting those monsters. Your mother picked up the family and moved to Dublin as the English moved into your village to burn everything. You never forgot that. You received your education at a Norman Monastery in English controlled lands, but Irish by tradition. Over the years, you took an unconventional interpretation of God’s word.

First, sacrifice is a good thing. Human sacrifice is the ultimate. Sometimes it is necessary to give up the lambs of God in order that the rest may live on. Second, evil should be destroyed by any means necessary. This may involve making deals with the devil. Even God dealt with the devil regarding Job.

A local priest named Lugaid O’Reilly introduced himself to you about 6 years ago. When you realized that he was talking about a group that had views similar to you, you accepted. He urged you to stay here and help him recruit others to the cause. Now you do your work from within Dublin so that you can not only work for the Lord, but also strike easily against the English monsters.

Not long ago Lugaid told you of a letter that he had received from an anonymous source. This letter described a needed plague that would only affect witches. In concert, you devised a magical plague that would enter Dublin through the river of the north. Everything worked fine until, Bryan Fitzgerald explained that his mother died of the very plague that you released. English AND a witch…two birds with one stone.

Now, there is a famine affecting Ireland and the Order has been contacted to stop it. You set to work and quickly discovered a solution. A mentor that schooled you in your beliefs gave you a red-bladed dagger that was consecrated for human sacrifice. If this blade is used for any other purpose it will be useless. The combination the red dagger and your spell can remove the famine from the area.

You are meeting the other members of the order in Dun Boyne at a dance/joust this weekend with both English and Irish participants. It provides the perfect cover for all of you to get together in one place. On top of everything else, there is an ancient graveyard nearby of your predecessors that the locals mistake as a Druid burial ground.

Finally, your brother Reys has arranged to pick up a few Welshman at the docks to meet an Irish rebel, Fergus O’Sullivan. This crazy Gael burns the Dublin food stores at night. So you are to keep an eye on them and update the Order on their activities.

Get rid of the English, track the Welsh, help Lugaid, and eliminate the witches.

What is this?

Cadugan O’Ceallaigh (1421)

2006-01-04T15:57:00.000-06:00

Cadugan O’Ceallaigh
Ghoul to Seysild O’Loingsigh

You have led a long and adventurous life. You were born Owain Glyndwr of noble birth. Connected to all the Welsh ruling families. You studied law in London and served with Richard II in France and Scotland. In 1400, the local Lord delayed summoning you to serve in the army in Scotland, and an uprising began. It resulted in your lands being confiscate. Over the next 4 years, the Welsh rallied around you and you racked up wins against the English. In 1404, you held the first Welsh parliament, and were crowned Prince of Wales. You signed a treaty with France, and independence was within reach. By 1408, England had cannons and turned the tide: your family was captured and you were left without a base. Most people think you went into the hills and died.

The reality is that you were critically injured in a small skirmish with English forces, left unconscious and allowed to die slowly. But you didn’t die. You woke under the moon to find someone pouring blood down your throat. The person who saved you (in a most unorthodox fashion) was the vampire Seysild O’Loingsigh. You knew that Malkavian Vampires existed in Wales because they came to your side, as long as you kept their secret. They helped a great deal until the Ventrue came in on the side of the English. Seysild gave you the option of remaining a ghoul or becoming Malkavian on the condition that you assumed a new identity. You chose to become his ghoul but remain his equal.

Now you are going to Ireland to hook up with someone sympathetic to your cause, Fergus O’Sullivan. He is a member of an esteemed Irish clan that would do anything to hurt the English. Recently, he has been burning their food stocks in Dublin while they suffer the plague.

You made arrangements through the le Waleys, relatives of some soldiers that followed you during the wars. They won’t recognize you because they’ve never been outside of Ireland. They had quite a bit to say about Fergus. Mostly that he’s quite crazy. They should provide strong help since they come from fine stock.

The le Waleys informed you that the meeting is at Dun Boyne, located beyond the Pale. It is a dance/jousting tournament and will be the perfect place to size up the English, as well as curry favor with the Irish. You know that the Irish need you as much as you need them. Dublin is reeling from the plague and Ireland proper is in famine. Since Wales is overflowing with food that the English are boating to Dublin, the Irish will be interested.

Since you are familiar with how diplomacy operates, you will likely take the lead when it comes to dealing with the main operators. Seysild will take care of business with the undead and see what can be done behind the scenes.

You are sure everyone wants to see the English pay for their persecutions, but the Irish have no strength. Maybe you can help them with that, and really screw the oppressors. With any luck, you can strike a real blow for the homeland.

What is this?

Seysild O’Loingsigh (1421)

2005-12-28T08:29:00.000-06:00

Seysild O’Loingsigh
10th Generation Malkavian
Welsh rebel

You have been fighting English for as long as you can remember. All throughout the countryside of Wales for the last 50 years, you and yours have been raising hell to stop the English repression of your people. In 1410, the Welsh leader, Owain Glyndwr (the true Prince of Wales), was critically wounded in battle. He was unconscious until dark, when you discovered him on the verge of death. That’s when you ghouled him and he took on a new identity. Since he was given up for dead and the rebellion was crushed, Owain Glyndwr passed into legend and was never heard from again. His new identity is Cadugan O’Ceallaigh, and you two work together to do the best you can to aid the Welsh effort.

Now you are going to Ireland to hook up with someone sympathetic to your cause. The person you are going to meet is Fergus O’Sullivan. He is a member of an esteemed Irish clan that would do anything to hurt the English. Recently, he has been burning their food stocks in Dublin while they suffer the plague. What joy! He arranged for two Welshmen to meet you at the docks last week.

The two that met you were the le Waleys. These are relatives of some soldiers that followed Owain when he was Prince of Wales. They won’t recognize him because they’ve never been outside of Ireland. AND they don’t know about your undead status, but are definitely on your side. Even before you got off of the docks, they had quite a bit to say about Fergus. Mostly that he’s quite crazy. That fact was just amusing. Maybe you’ll ghoul or embrace them if they prove themselves this weekend. Right now they’re just walking food.

The le Waleys informed you that the meeting is taking place at a town called Dun Boyne, located beyond the Pale. It is a dance/jousting tournament and will be the perfect place to size up the English, as well as curry favor with the Irish. You’re not sure what everyone has in store for you, but you know that the Irish want you as much as you want them. Your advantage is that they are a little bit desperate. Even though Dublin is reeling from the plague, Ireland proper is in famine. Wales is overflowing with food that the English are boating to Dublin. That food, of course, can be diverted…

Cadugan should be familiar with some of the protocols involved in dealing with English Lords and Irish Clan Leaders, so it would be best to let him take the lead on that. You can work with Fergus on figuring out how to work things from behind the scenes.

Everyone wants to see the English pay for their persecutions, but the Irish have no strength. Maybe you can help them with that, and really screw the oppressors.

What is this?

Cináed Lynch (1421)

2005-12-23T08:23:00.000-06:00

Cináed Lynch
10th Generation Malkavian Vampire
Member of Clan O’Casey

About 10 years ago, you got into a fight with Fergus O’Sullivan. This was a very stupid thing to do. Fergus beat you to a bloody pulp, literally. Just as you were about to die, he gave you the gift of insanity. He turned you into Malkavian Vampire. Needless to say, you don’ t think of yourself as insane; you have been liberated.

Fergus suggested you act like him, and be the Clan’s fool and drunk so no one would suspect your true nature. It has worked so far. Your clan’s leader is a bumbling fool by the name of Rónán O’Casey. He has led your clan to the brink of disaster. You have several times suggested to Fergus that you could liberate his mind, but Fergus has told you flatly no.

This weekend Fergus has great plans in store. There is a jousting tournament and dance. Nobles from all over the land shall be coming. What is most exciting is that some of your Welsh ‘brethren’ shall be coming to the tournament. You all shall have a grand old time hunting down all the faeries that are sure to be at the tournament. Faeries can never resist a tournament and their blood tastes so sweet, at least according to Fergus.

The rest of your clan shall be attending the tournament. You have Conall the clan’s champion and jousters. Rónán’s twin sisters, Dearbháil and Gráinne, shall also be in attendance. Lastly, the little runt of a ‘squire’, Fáelán O’Byrne, shall be around to serve the clan’s leaders. Mainly everyone leaves you alone. They usually beat a hasty retreat after a few minutes of conversation. You can only guess that they aren’t as enlightened as you.

You are really beginning to get concerned about your clan’s lot in life. If they don’t survive, then you don’t have a future in Ireland. You expect Rónán to do something dramatic Friday night at the dance. If he hasn’t made some arrangements by midnight, you might find it necessary to act despite Fergus’ admonitions.

The best thing about being associated with clan O’Casey is the twins. They love to tease men, but don’t even realize that you take their blood on a regular basis. That virgin blood tastes soooo sweet. Sometimes you drain your own blood just so you can get a taste of those fine women. That dumbass Rónán better not compromise their pristine state in order to feed his people. He should be a better man than that.

So much to do and only 2 days to do it in…

What is this?

Fáelán O’Byrne (1421)

2005-12-16T09:03:00.000-06:00

Fáelán O’Byrne
Page to Conall Keough

You are in training under Conall Keough to become the next champion of Clan O’Casey. Mainly you are the errand boy of everyone. Fáelán go do this, Fáelán go do that. You are getting quite sick of it.

This weekend there is to be a joust and dance. You are to act as the manservant of Conall and Rónán O’Casey, the Clan Leader. You weren’t born to serve; you were born to fight. Conall is entering the joust, and you are going to serve as his second. He has hinted that you could gain that station on a permanent basis if you live up to your potential this weekend.

As it stands, the clan has been experiencing a terrible famine that has swept across the countryside. Needless to say, you are sick of being hungry. You have heard rumors that the English have plenty of food in Dublin. The English might be willing to let you practice your warrior skills, and eat well, if you could bring them some choice information from the various clans.

The other thing that has been bothering you is Rónán’s twin sisters, Dearbháil and Gráinne. Besides teasing you with their good looks, you have seen them sneaking off when they thought no one was looking. One day you followed them. To your utter disbelief, they started talking about casting a spell. You didn’t hear anything else, because you heard a noise and ran off, but it would be useful to find out if they are really witches.

You know that the O’Casey twins are in league with the devil, but they are just so good looking. Perhaps they would finally give in to your overtures if you threatened to turn them in to the local priests, or even their brother.

Cináed spends all his time hanging around with Fergus O’Sullivan. You don’t know what it is with them because you don’t have time to follow him, but it seems that they have meetings at night every week or so. They likely go to the taverns in east Meath and buy wenches to be with. They are so blindingly drunk that they cannot stand being in the light of day.

The only way that you are going to improve your lot in life is to improve your station. That just isn’t going to happen if you wait for it, so this weekend, you have to find every way possible to gain that power and influence you crave.

What is this?

Gráinne O’Casey (1421)

2005-12-14T10:43:00.000-06:00

Gráinne O’Casey
O’Casey Sister

You and your sister Dearbháil, were born under a full moon 20 years ago. Since then you have been inseparable. You learned to do most of the common things that women do together working with Generis O’Reilly. Together, with her, you were initiated into a witches coven run by Aine O’Toole when you were 13. You were sent there once a week to participate in your “sewing circle” which exists, intact, until this very day. Under this cover, you have all avoided persecution by the local authorities, who are becoming more and more intolerant of “heretical” beliefs.

Since you both were 14, you knew that you would be something special with the men. The fact that you were identical gave you two a couple of remarkable abilities. First, men fantasize about having both of you at once, and you have always played this to your advantage while protecting your purity. Second, you two switch places without so much as a double take from even your father. So instead of swapping guy stories, you swap guys. That doubles your fun, because you really can’t read each other’s minds.

Your favorite target is the page to Connall Keough (the Champion), Fáelán O’Byrne. You two switch off tormenting him, and sometimes lead him on to think that you are going to give him a 3-way if he’s lucky. The reality is, you lust after Cináed Lynch. He is a cousin of the O’Casey’s, and you two take turns making out with him, sometimes together. He is soooo luscious. You sometimes wake up hours after kissing him with a simple feeling of euphoria and lightheadedness.

As for your local coven, Áine had become increasingly irritated with the persecutions that the priests were engaging in against witches. To her it seemed a bit hypocritical. The worst thing was that the population was behind it. So she suggested that you all get together and throw a Famine spell. It worked like a charm and now the Irish don’t have time to hunt down witches or pagans.

Just after your famine hit, your coven suffered a major loss inside Dublin. A number of your sisters were stricken down by the plague, and now it is out of control, affecting the entire populace. Generis came up with a spell, but it involves using all of the blood of one vampire. You’ve never seen them, but they exist. After some quick study, you and Dearbháil were able to fashion a way to cause a vampire to freeze for 10 minutes. You know that the dead stiffen up, but figured that vampires had never gone through this process. So your spell is called “Touch of the grave”. It takes the entire coven to cast it.

Generis has to be the one to cast the spell, since she is entirely pure. However, she has been promised to the winner of a joust at the social event taking place on the Preston Estate this weekend. Maybe you and Dearbháil can use your superior looks to distract enough of the contestants and fix the outcome of the tournament.

Whenever you two disagree, she insists on reminding you that she was the FIRST born. It is getting a bit old.

What is this?

Dearbháil O’Casey (1421)

2005-12-12T10:21:00.000-06:00

Dearbháil O’Casey
O’Casey Sisters

You and your sister Grainne, were born under a full moon 20 years ago. Since then you have been inseparable. You learned to do most of the common things that women do together working with Generis O’Reilly. Together, with her, you were initiated into a witches coven run by Aine O’Toole when you were 13. You were sent there once a week to participate in your “sewing circle” which exists, intact, until this very day. Under this cover, you have all avoided persecution by the local authorities, who are becoming more and more intolerant of “heretical” beliefs.

Since you both were 14, you knew that you would be something special with the men. The fact that you were identical gave you two a couple of remarkable abilities. First, men fantasize about having both of you at once, and you have always played this to your advantage while protecting your purity. Second, you two switch places without so much as a double take from even your father. So instead of swapping guy stories, you swap guys. That doubles your fun, because you really can’t read each other’s minds.

Your favorite target is the page to Connall Keough (the Champion), Fáelán O’Byrne. You two switch off tormenting him, and sometimes lead him on to think that you are going to give him a 3-way if he’s lucky. The reality is, you lust after Cináed Lynch. He is a cousin of the O’Casey’s, and you two take turns making out with him, sometimes together. He is soooo luscious. You sometimes wake up hours after kissing him with a simple feeling of euphoria and lightheadedness.

As for your local coven, Áine had become increasingly irritated with the persecutions that the priests were engaging in against witches. To her it seemed a bit hypocritical. The worst thing was that the population was behind it. So she suggested that you all get together and throw a Famine spell. It worked like a charm and now the Irish don’t have time to hunt down witches or pagans.

Just after your famine hit, your coven suffered a major loss inside Dublin. A number of your sisters were stricken down by the plague, and now it is out of control, affecting the entire populace. Generis came up with a spell, but it involves using all of the blood of one vampire. You’ve never seen them, but they exist. After some quick study, you and Gráinne were able to fashion a way to cause a vampire to freeze for 10 minutes. You know that the dead stiffen up, but figured that vampires had never gone through this process. So your spell is called “Touch of the grave”. It takes the entire coven to cast it.

Generis has to be the one to cast the spell, since she is entirely pure. However, she has been promised to the winner of a joust at the social event taking place on the Preston Estate this weekend. Maybe you and Gráinne can use your superior looks to distract enough of the contestants and fix the outcome of the tournament.

Remember, you were the FIRST born of the two, and remind Gráinne about it when you happen to disagree with her.

What is this?

Conall Keough (1421)

2005-12-07T09:30:00.001-06:00

Conall Keough
Clan O’Casey

You are the champion of Clan O’Casey. You were adopted into the clan by the clan leader, Rónán O’Casey, when you where found as a lad on the outskirts of the clan’s land. The knight you were training under had turned you out. Several warriors raised you over the next few years, but they were no match for your skill. You picked up on some of the martial skills that the Englishman wasn’t able to teach you. Next thing you know, you were challenging for the right to be Clan Champion.

Your dreams have come true at last. This weekend there is a joust and you are clan O’Casey’s Champion. Two things are happening. First, Cormac O’Reily is giving his daughter, Generis, to the winner of the joust. You have seen Generis on many occasions with Rónán’s twin sisters Dearbháil and Gráinne. Generis is a fine looking wench that you wouldn’t mind marrying. Second, Olyver Moore is entering the joust. He is a squire to the same knight that trained you, and intends on using this event to show his prowess and readiness to move through the ranks. If you get to meet him in a match, you could really strike a blow against the English, and your former teacher. A killing blow could also improve your clan’s status amongst the Irish and make women fawn over you.

Going with you to the joust will be your student Fáelán O’Byrne. This will be the first joust that he has been too. You need to show him that sometimes chivalry doesn’t win, and that every little bit can help when it comes to a tournament. He is fairly impressionable and will do your bidding in an effort to become your second on a permanent basis. Lastly, Cináed Lynch will be accompanying the clan. He is wee bit to the left of right in the mind, but he is always useful in a fight.

Win the joust and you can run off with your virgin bride and be a major player in local politics. Rónán will need your help in finding some more food or aid for the clan because of the famine that has struck the countryside. Winning the tournament will ensure some more aid from Cormac O’Reilly, but the clan is in desperate straights and might need more aid than a simple tournament can provide. Any side deals that you can make involving your twin sisters could help the O’Caseys in more ways than you can count. You’re not above dealing with the English, because you know that your sisters will do their duty and strike a killing blow against their future husbands when the time is right.

What is this?

Conall Keough (1421)

2005-12-07T09:30:00.000-06:00

Rónán O’Casey (1421)

2005-12-05T10:02:00.000-06:00

Rónán O’Casey

Through a number of agreements, pacts, and alliances, the O’Caseys and other smaller clans in the area have banded together to provide some resistance to the Kelly’s, O’Tooles and O’Reillys. Frankly, you are all tired of being pushed around and used as pawns in their wars against the English. You hate the English as much as anyone, but its about time you got your share. To this end, you have been “elected” the leader of “the rest”. Your short reign as leader has been miserable. The smaller, clans are suffering from a famine that has left the fields bare. The larger clans don’t seem to be impacted that much, or not that you can see. To make matters worse, two weeks ago you lost your wife to a ‘hunting’ accident. You don’t really believe she died while hunting for game. Her body was too mangled. Something is out there hunting your people.

Two weeks ago, you received an invite to a social to be hosted by the Prestons in Dunne Boyne. This will give you the perfect opportunity to strike a few deals and improve your lot in life. Hopefully, you can make it better for the people you are representing, also. This brings us to the motley bunch you have assembled. You may as well give up hope now, but sometimes things work out for the best.

The dance/joust was called by Cormac O’Reilly and is being held on the Preston Estate. Cormac has offered his sister, Generis, to the winner of the jousting tournament. All of the area nobles and their flunkies will be there. You need to secure an alliance to make sure your people survive. Whether it’s your Cousin Conall and his protégé Fáelán winning the jousting tournament or marrying off one of your twin sisters, Dearbháil and Gráinne, to the highest bidder; it does not matter, your Clan must survive this famine.

The other Irish clan will all be in attendance. The O’Toole’s are notorious English haters. This could be play to your advantage if you can blame them for something and take over there land. Next, the Leader of the Clans Is Cormac O’Reilly. He is a strong Irishman. As head of all clans, he is the lead judge and arbitrator when two clans have a dispute. You don’t know much about the Kelly Clan except that you don’t mess with them at all. Mysterious things always seem to happen around them.

Your safest bet is making absolutely sure Connall win the jousting tournament. This would secure an alliance with the leader of the Clans. There will be plenty of Englishmen at the joust though, if one of your fellow Clan members doesn’t want to help you out, then maybe the English would. Even the unfortunate death of an Englishman at the joust would be welcome and probably render the killer as a hero. Everyone seems to want a piece of your twin sisters, but they are influenced a great deal by Áine O’Reilly through that cursed sewing circle. If you can find out what seals that bond, you might have an easier time getting them married off. Finally, your cousin, Cináed Lynch, has been talking about some Welsh coming to the tournament. If you could get the Welsh on your side, you might be able to just seize power outright.

What is this?

Fiachu McDermot (1421)

2005-12-02T10:05:00.000-06:00

Fiachu McDermot
Member of Clan O’Toole

You are Fiachu McDermot the elder of Clan O’Toole. Too bad elder doesn’t mean leader. It just means you’re the oldest warrior in the clan O’Toole. The leader of the clan is Donnchad O’Toole.

Donnchad is your brother’s son. You have hated him since he was 8 years old when he cost you leadership of the clan by telling his dad about a plot you where undertaking to steal a few goat from a neighbor. Since then, you succeeded in getting rid of your brother, but unfortunately Donnchad had grow-up by then, and assumed leadership. Needless to say you’re quite bitter. It is even worse because the clan name is O’Toole, not McDermot.

You might have your chance to gain control in the next few days. There is a jousting tournament being held by Cormac O’Reilly. At the tournament, there will be a lot of chances for deceit and discovering who can help you take power. If you could insure that the clan could secure food to survive the famine, you think you might have a good chance of taking over as clan leader. Framing Donnchad to take the fall for the famine might be a good idea too.

Also going to the tournament from Clan O’Toole are Fergus O’Sullivan, Bressal O’Toole, and Áine O’Toole. Fergus is just nuts. You usually just keep out of his way. Bressal is Donnchad’s best friend and right hand man. It might prove useful to discredit him or cause him to lose the joust. Lastly, Áine is a just an eccentric girl that needs to be married off for the benefit of the clan or namely you.

Alternatively, if you could secure a marriage for yourself into one of the other major clans, you might be able to improve your lot in life. Having Bressal suffer an unfortunate demise after winning the joust could result in your fat ass having to marry the sweet virgin Generis O’Reilly out of duty! Oh, that would be grand. If you could marry Áine off to Niall, then you would cement the ties between the “McDermots” and the O’Reillys.

Whatever you do, you cannot be found out. Donnchad and Bressal already suspect you and keep a close eye on your activities. Maybe a distraction with the English or with Cormac would be the ticket. Having the talks mysteriously delayed between the English Lord and Cormac O’Reilly through Donnchad’s actions would serve to give you time and discredit your “leader”.

What is this?

Áine O'Toole (1421)

2005-11-30T10:38:00.000-06:00

Áine O'Toole
Witch leader of the Coven of Fire. Daughter of Donnchad O’Toole

You are the daughter of Donnchad O’Toole, the leader of the O’Toole clan. Ever since you were a little girl your grandmother has been teaching you the magical arts. When you finally reached womanhood your grandmother turned you loose to form your own coven. You have managed to keep this a secret from your clan so far. However this has been more difficult since your clansman Fergus O’Sullivan and his brother had that hunting accident. You were unable to save his brother. When you all split up to look for Fergus, just before the sun rose, you found him. You thought he was dead but before you could call out to the other clan members he moved. When he asked for your help you realized that he was, in fact, undead. You did the only thing you could think of you buried him.

Since then he’s proved a wonderful ally, and has put you in contact with many people. You know that the Kelly’s are all members of the undead race. You are also under the protection of Úna O’Reilly the wife of Cormac who leads the Irish. This woman has been a source of opportunity and woe for your coven. She put you in contact with an English undead member who hired your group out to ruin the fields of the Irish. This, you did gladly, not only because of the money, but to exact revenge for the years of persecutions against witches that the Irish have doled out.

As your famine took grip, Dublin was struck by an obviously magical plague. There are no other magical groups operating that you know of, until now. Úna came to you asking that you stop the plague, the Irish needed all the English help they could get, because of the Barley that they could provide. Weakness from famine is one thing, but outright starvation is another.

After your coven examined the source of the plague (the river) Generis came up with a solution. There are two problems with the solution, however. The small one is that she has to be the one to cast it, but she is being married off Saturday after the Joust (see below). The BIG one is that you need to completely exsanguinate a Vampire to get a needed spell component. The O’Casey twins have come up with a way to freeze the undead in position with a spell called “Touch of the grave”.

This weekend, there is a big meeting in Dun Boyne. It is a Dance, followed by a joust the next day. Your coven can use the dance to locate all of the undead beasts and use them to your advantage, assuming they don’t eat you. You can also curry favor amongst the elite of both the English and Irish. Finally, it will give you a chance to meet with and get information from Beatrix, the English witch that seems to love women more than men. Above all, the joust shouldn’t be taking place, because you need to preserve Generis’ chastity. If it does take place, you need to render the winner impotent. I’m sure that you have some potion that will take care of that…

What is this?

Fergus O’Sullivan (1421)

2005-11-28T09:35:00.000-06:00

Fergus O’Sullivan
Member Clan O’Toole, 9th Generation Malkavian Vampire

You remember your childhood fondly. That is till you turned 18 and went hunting with your younger brother, Connall. The next moments will be forever etched into your memory. A fat boar charged and gored your brother to death. It then turned and attacked you. Ripping your stomach open with it’s large tusks, your intestines fell out. You sat there trying to put them back in when a strange man came and ask if he could take your pain away. You said yes.

The gift of madness was passed to you then. You healed and fed on an Englishmen that night. Gone was the sweet boy that wanted to bring dinner home, in his place was a creature that nightly remembers putting his intestines back in his stomach. The creature that remembers the liberating moment when the kiss destroyed any natural resistance to social norms, otherwise known as humanity, freeing you to absorb and explore whatever you wish.

To hide your transformation, you act as the typical drunken Irishman. This isn’t hard to do, you drink at night, gamble at night, sleep through the days to recover from the ‘partying’.

Lately, you have been sneaking into Dublin and setting fire to the food stores of the English. You know that they are responsible for the current Irish famine. If they are hungry, too, then they might work to fix it. Even if it isn’t a direct result of English actions, the Faeries that live under the town of Dublin did it, so they are guilty by association. (Actually, anyone in Dublin is probably guilty to some extent in your mind)

The Clan’s Leader is Donnchad O’Toole. He is a wise man, if a little weak. He has his hands full trying to secure food for the Clan because of the famine that is currently raging across the countryside. You have been contemplating given him the gift of your dark wisdom, but have decided for now, it’s better that the Clan has a good daytime leader. Bressal O’Toole is Donnchad’s best friend, and the Clan’s Champion. Aine O’Toole is Donnchad’s daughter and a witch to boot. She is someone to watch out for. No one in the clan knows she is a witch except you, and she doesn’t realize that you know. Lastly, there is that fat bastard Fiachu McDermot. Fiachu is Donnchad’s uncle, and a lying bastard.

Now to the good part, the leader of the clans, Cormac O’Reilly, has decided to throw a jousting tournament and dance. All the nobles and faeries of the land will be there to discuss various things. You can’t wait to get your first taste of faerie blood. They always come to tournaments like this from under Dublin. Your childe, Cinead Lynch, shall be there with his clan. Also, coming is Seyslid O’Loingsigh, a Welsh “brethren” with several of his freedom fighters. Hopefully, you can work out something with the Welsh to strike a decisive blow against the English.

What is this?

Bressal O’Toole (1421)

2005-11-21T10:16:00.000-06:00

Bressal O’Toole
Clan O’Toole Champion

You are Bressal O’Toole, the muscle and war leader of Clan O’Toole. Your first cousin Donnchad O’Toole is the clan leader. You have been best friends since childhood. While Donnchad was destined to be the clan leader you were destined to be his right hand man. As a youth, you spent time in as a page Dublin amongst the English to learn their ways. You picked up on the ways of the knight during this time, and now can ride a horse and wield a lance as good as anyone.

Currently, the clan is facing troubling times. There is a famine that is wreaking havoc with countryside. You are have entered a jousting contest at your cousin request to try to win the hand of Generis, Cormac O’Reilly’s sister. While not thrilled with the idea of marrying Generis if you win, the alliance it could provide could prove invaluable to the clan’s future.

Fergus O’Sullivan will be at tournament along with your uncle Fiachu McDermot. Fergus is quite mad, but he’s part of the clan so you keep an eye on him. More than that, he hates the English as much as anyone, so that is good enough for you. Some of the groundskeepers have been talking about how he ventures out for days at a time to Dublin. Giving the English a pain in the rear may be all fun and good, but your clan has all that it can handle without drawing their ire. You need to make sure he keeps his activities a secret so that Donnchad can do the real work. Your uncle Fiachu is a troublemaker and royal pain in the ass. He needs to be kept quiet, too. Lastly, Áine O’Toole will be accompanying you to the events.

In the end, you are to help Donnchad in any way you can. You can do this primarily by keeping the rest of the clan quiet and making them look normal. This will be some task, since none of them listen and they are all crazy. It is especially important to make sure that the meetings between Donnchad and Cormac O’Reilly happen without incident. Finally, you need to win the jousting tournament at all costs to secure that wench Generis as a wife. If you can do that and have something unfortunate happen to Niall in the process, you might be able to secure the O’Reilly dynasty for yourself.

What is this?

Donnchad O’Toole (1421)

2005-11-18T09:19:00.000-06:00

Donnchad O’Toole
O’Toole Clan Leader

You are the head of an Irish clan has lived in Meath as long as anyone can remember. Although you don’t have large amount of land, you do carry the respect of the other clans. That respect has waned in the face of the current famine. Your people are starving. Your dogs are dying. You could normally get food from Dublin, but there is a plague in the city, and no one will approach. This weekend, your clan has been invited to a dance/joust sponsored by Cormac O’Reilly, leader of all the Irish clans. Your spies indicate that the whole thing is a thinly veiled attempt to get the English and Irish together to see if they can help each other out without looking too friendly. Cormac has offered his sister, Generis, as a prize to get people to come. You have brought 4 with you.

Bressal is your 1st cousin and best friend. You two grew up together. You are the brains, and he is the enforcer. Bressal is entering the jousting competition. If he wins that’s great, because it will get you an “in” on the horse-trading.

Fiachu is your mother’s uncle and long pain in your side. He feels that he should lead the clan leadership, even though it was your father that died. Openly, he supports you and your brethren. Privately, he’ll screw you at every turn.

Fergus grew up as nice as can be, and then the hunting accident. He was gored and his brother killed. Since then, he’s been a nut-job. He only goes out at night and you keep receiving reports of food stores burning in Dublin on the days he is gone…good for him. Even though you can’t really count of Fergus for much, everyone is scared of him, so he’s good to have around. He keeps talking about having some Welsh friends in this weekend…They could prove very useful.

Áine is your virginal sister who is leader of the local sewing circle. She brings you idle gossip from the other clans, and is a huge, untapped asset.

The Kelly’s are a secretive clan that hates the English with an extreme passion. They are fearless warriors, and are a clan to be feared if their ire is raised.

The O’Reilly’s are the most powerful clan in the region and thus the leaders of the Irish clans. Cormac is a shrewd leader. You will have to work hard to make sure he gets you the food your people need. He is run by his wife, the guard is a spendthrift, and his brother is single…getting food and land should be cake.

Last, there are the O’Casey’s. They are extremely disorganized, but have one notable asset - the twins. This pair of ladies would be a fine addition to any man’s list of conquests. They are in the sewing club with your sister Áine and often meet on the Cormac’s estate with Generis O’Reilly.

You need to gain food and land for your people by any means necessary, preferably at the English expense. Making sure that Bressal wins the joust is a good start. Winning familial ties to O’Reilly’s could prove very useful. If you could set up Fiachu for disaster, then you could really consolidate your power.

What is this?

Órlaith Kelly (1421)

2005-11-14T09:08:00.000-06:00

Órlaith Kelly

You had a life of absolute abundance, the marrying from money into money by snagging Áed Kelly.

After years of security, Áed took you away to a castle many leagues west of Cavan. It was wonderful. He was finally going to treat you like a real woman. Except that you had to sneak out at night like you weren’t married…even though you were. He even brought Áed and Órlaith! When you arrived at the castle, it became a ‘night of horror’. The sex was rough, and Áed especially enjoyed biting you…hard. You tried to make him stop, but his strength was too much.

A few nights later the brothers revealed that you and Éadaoin were now vampires! Grief stricken, she coerced them into teaching poor children to read and write your country’s dying language, Goidelic (Irish Gaelic) as retribution for embracing you. That was great, because you knew that Áed would just hate it. The law of Kilkenny in 1366 was formally banned from being taught. You do this at night behind the English ruler’s backs. It is important to NEVER let anyone English know that you are doing this as they will turn you in and you could be put in the stocks and left to die in the sun.

Ailill showed you and Éadaoin the family chest and an artifact that the father (Trian) brought back from Scotland. It was a most beautiful goblet, and you gazed at for a long time. Finally, Ailill commanded you to put it down. He explained that they were forced to turn you into Vampires because they couldn’t stand spending eternity without you by his side. You thought that was a load of shit.

Now, Ailill deals with the political issues of the Clan and act as spokesman. Trian deals with the undead issues and acts as the area ruler for all vampire matters. Áed is left out of matters. You are all expected to attend a dance/joust this weekend. With a plague striking Dublin and a Famine in Ireland proper, a deal will probably be in the works between the English and Irish. You aren’t sure what you want to happen, but Ailill seems to be the better of the brothers. Too bad you are Áed’s childe. Since Áed has entered the joust, maybe something can be arranged to have him suffer an untimely demise.

A rumor you have heard from your gardeners is that Irish rogues have been sneaking into Dublin at night and burning food stores inside the Pale, and your guess is that one of the Malkavians (Fergus O’Sullivan or Cináed Lynch) are responsible. You have let it slip to Éadaoin that Áed is particularly unhappy about teaching the children, and may try something this weekend.

Freeing yourself from as many bonds as you can is certainly a worthy goal…

What is this?

Éadaoin Kelly (1421)

2005-11-11T08:29:00.000-06:00

Éadaoin Kelly
10th Generation Toreador
Wife of Ailill Kelly

You had a life of absolute abundance, the dashing handsome Ailill Kelly with his Irish family honor and privilege took you away from your English Indenture.

After years of happiness, Ailill took you away to a castle many leagues west of Cavan. It was wonderful. Everything like a fairy tale should be. Especially that you had to always sneak out at night like you weren’t married…even though you were with Áed and Órlaith. When all of you arrived at the castle, it became a ‘magical night’. The sex was great, though Ailill was a bit rough. He seemed to really enjoy biting you at one point you tried to make him stop but you gave in anyway.

A few nights later the brothers revealed that you and Órlaith were now vampires! Grief stricken, you coerced them into teaching poor children to read and write your country’s dying language, Goidelic (Irish Gaelic) as retribution for embracing you. The law of Kilkenny in 1366 was formally banned from being taught. You do this at night behind the English ruler’s backs. It is important to NEVER let anyone English know that you are doing this as they will turn you in and you could be put in the stocks.

Finally, he showed you the family chest and an artifact that his father brought back from Scotland. It was a most beautiful goblet, and you gazed at for a very long time. Finally, Ailill commanded you to put it down. He explained that he was forced to turn you into a Vampire because he couldn’t stand spending eternity without you by his side. His father, Trian, embraced the brothers in order to keep the goblet secret from the Pope and the English.

Ailill deals with the political issues of the Clan and act as spokesman. Trian deals with the undead issues and acts as the area ruler for all vampire matters. You are all expected to attend a dance/joust this weekend. With a plague striking Dublin and a Famine in Ireland proper, a deal will probably be in the works between the English and Irish. Unless you want the children to continue starving, you need to make sure that those talks go off without a hitch.

A rumor you have heard from your gardeners is that Irish rogues have been sneaking into Dublin at night and burning food stores inside the Pale, and your guess is that one of the Malkavians (Fergus O’Sullivan or Cináed Lynch) are responsible. You know, through Órlaith, that Áed is particularly unhappy about teaching the children, and may try something this weekend. That couple has never been very happy since the embrace, and is worth watching.

What is this?

Áed Kelly (1421)

2005-11-09T07:33:00.000-06:00

Áed Kelly
9th Generation Toreador Vampire

You are the son of Trian Kelly. In 1347 your father came back from a long trip from Scotland and seemed a changed man. He stayed up all-night and slept all day. He even slept through your wedding (to you longtime love, Órlaith O’Callaigh). His nocturnal habits continued for several years.

Finally, one night he called you and your brother Áed into his chamber and started talking about how we really can’t keep living ‘this lie’. He pointed to the family chest that in the corner. Ailill opened it up and found a golden goblet with all types of strange engravings all over it. While you were gazing at beauty of the Goblet, your father attacked you by sinking his fangs into your neck and draining you of life. While he was standing over your limp body, you heard him say, ‘Áed would never understand Ailill, but you will’.

He had turned you and your brother into legendary Vampires! He explained the rest of the story, but forgot one important thing - both you and your brother were still married to mortals. After reminding him, you’ll never forget what he said:

“Hmm, I hadn’t thought about that. When did you two get married, again?”

You and Áed took your wives away from Cavan to Embrace them and explain how the family had a greater purpose that would not include raising children. As part of the deal with your wives, you all teach poor children to read and write your country’s dying language, Goidelic (Irish Gaelic). A 1336 Kilkenny law formally banned it from being taught, so you do this at night behind the English ruler’s backs.

The locals still do not understand why your family was not affected by the Plague of 1348, but they know that you are trying your best to keep the English from destroying what little dignity they have.

You harbor some animosity for your father picking Ailill to lead the Kelly’s through political matters, and it wouldn’t bother you if Ailill tripped on his own intellect.
You are all expected to attend a dance/joust this weekend. With a plague striking Dublin and a Famine in Ireland proper, a deal will probably be in the works between the English and Irish. You and Órlaith are tired of teaching the children and feel that if you were in command things would be different.

The success of your family’s future requires that this weekend’s activities go off without a hitch. You have a couple irons in the fire to be sure that it doesn’t. First, you have entered the jousting competition. You need to be able to get to the lances to make sure yours isn’t padded properly. It would be ashamed if someone died during the tournament. You’ve also heard that Sarra Brennan, the mover and shaker inside Dublin, is going to be at the social. If a deal could be cut with her, then maybe you could end up in charge of the area instead of your hyper-responsible father and brother.

What is this?

Trian Kelly (1421)

2005-11-07T08:40:00.000-06:00

Trian Kelly
8th Generation Toreador Vampire

You are the Patriarch of the Kelly Clan in this area. Even though locals look up to you for your wisdom and your wealth, they hate you for the same reasons.

In 1345, trading in Western Scotland, an elderly man with a noticeable French accent approached you and begged help. You went to his farm where he told you your life story, and knew the names of all your family members. Over the course of a few days, he told you of his journeys to the Eastern Roman Empire and how the King of France and Pope Clement had betrayed him. He produced the blue and white uniform of a Templar and a small golden vessel that he insisted that you take. He then revealed his last secret. Some Templars were Vampires, and the Pope disbanded the group after being framed for heresies. As you sat in disbelief, he moved closer…

You don’t remember much after that but when you came around you found that you were under his command. He forced you to drain all his blood to take his strength and free him from the Curse of Caine. You didn’t realize that Vampires considered this taboo. Now, you have the legacy of protecting the vessel from the English and the Pope. It is an important artifact (NOT the Holy Grail) with unknown powers.

After years of hiding from the sun, you had no choice but to reveal what had happened to your two sons, Áed and Ailill. You embraced them so that together you could keep the Templar’s secret. In all your secrecy you forgot they were married to mortals. Your sons embraced their wives and now educate poor children as payment for not blessing them with children of their own. Some people are angry that no one in your family was affected by the Plague of 1348 but they are happy that your family was the only one who had warriors to keep the English at bay.

You deal with undead issues of the area and make provide some structure for the Vampires. Ailill deals with the political issues and acts the clan spokesman. You are all expected to attend a dance/joust this weekend. With a plague striking Dublin and a Famine in Ireland proper, a deal will probably be in the works between the English and Irish. Unless you want the children to continue starving, you need to make sure that those talks go off without a hitch.

You have heard rumors that Fergus O’Sullivan has been raiding the food stores in Dublin every 3 days or so, and that he is expecting some Welsh “friends” this weekend at the social. You know full well that they aren’t coming just to have a good time. It could be vital to make sure that they stay calm, out of the way, and shut up.

You have noticed that Áed has been restless. Perhaps you should have given him more responsibility when you embraced your sons, too bad he was the younger one. He’s going to occupy himself with the joust this weekend, and you hope he doesn’t kill anyone!

What is this?

Ailill Kelly (1421)

2005-11-04T08:49:00.000-06:00

Ailill Kelly
9th Generation Toreador Vampire

You are the son of Trian Kelly. In 1347 your father came back from a long trip from Scotland and seemed a changed man. He stayed up all-night and slept all day. He even slept through your wedding (to you longtime love, Éadaoin Rially).
His nocturnal habits continued for several years.

Finally, one night he called you and your brother Áed into his chamber and started talking about how we really can’t keep living ‘this lie’. He pointed to the family chest that in the corner. You opened it up and found a golden goblet with all types of strange engravings all over it. After unlocking yourself from the beauty of the Goblet, you noticed your brother on the floor with blood running from his neck. You father was standing over him - blood running from his mouth. ‘Áed would never understand Ailill, but you will’.

You sat terrified as your father explained that a Frenchman gave the goblet to him. He kept babbling about the end of the Templars as he hugged and buried his teeth into your neck. He had turned you and your brother into legendary Vampires! He explained the rest of the story, but forgot one important thing - both you and your brother were still married to mortals. After reminding him, you’ll never forget what he said:

“Hmm, I hadn’t thought about that. When did you two get married, again?”

You and Áed took your wives away from Cavan to Embrace them and explain how the family had a greater purpose that would not include raising children. As part of the deal with your wives, you all teach poor children to read and write your country’s dying language, Goidelic (Irish Gaelic). A 1336 Kilkenny law formally banned it from being taught, so you do this at night behind the English ruler’s backs.

The locals still do not understand why your family was not affected by the Plague of 1348, but they know that you are trying your best to keep the English from destroying what little dignity they have.

You deal with the political issues of the Clan and act as spokesman. Your father deals with the undead issues and acts as the area ruler for all vampire matters. You are all expected to attend a dance/joust this weekend. With a plague striking Dublin and a Famine in Ireland proper, a deal will probably be in the works between the English and Irish. Unless you want the children to continue starving, you need to make sure that those talks go off without a hitch.

A rumor you have heard from your gardeners is that Irish rogues have been sneaking into Dublin at night and burning food stores inside the Pale, and your guess is that one of the Malkavians (Fergus O’Sullivan or Cináed Lynch) are responsible. Also, you have heard that a delegation from Rome is in the area, and you definitely don’t want to be caught by those guys.

What is this?

Cellach Fitz-Dermot (1421)

2005-11-02T10:07:00.000-06:00

Cellach Fitz-Dermot
Guard and manservant to Cormac O’Reilly

You are a low class man from a low class family in Norman Ireland. This never bothered you much because you were always able to defend yourself and get the ladies. When you didn’t have money, you could always scrounge up the odd job.

About 6 years ago, after a bar fight, someone came up to you and offered you a job as their personal bodyguard. He looked pretty well to do, so you accepted. That person was Cormac O’Reilly, leader of the Irish in Cavan & Meath. Since then, things have been smooth sailing. You have participated in a couple battles, won some land titles scored some serious coin. You have had more fun blowing it on prostitutes and grog in Meath, particularly on this Englishwoman named Beatrix who shows up every now and then.

Over the years, you have taken Niall’s bodyguard under your wing. Niall is Cormac’s brother. His bodyguard is Geoffrey. Geoffrey is a bit slow, but don’t tell him that, he’s got a short fuse. It’s obvious he has trouble with the ladies, so you take him to Meath and pay for him to have a luscious wench or two for himself. It makes him feel good, and keeps the hulking dumbass in your corner.

In the last 3 weeks, Cormac has assigned you to report on Niall, Lugaid, and Generis. Lugaid and Generis are the freaky brother and sister of Cormac. All you know is that they keep weird hours and give you the evil eye if you look at them too long. Lugaid is a priest and Generis is a seamstress. They haven’t been doing much out of the ordinary, because everyone is preparing for the dance/joust to take place this weekend in Dun Boyne. Generis is the prize for the joust. You know the meeting is really an opportunity for Cormac to meet with an English Lord to negotiate out a food for water deal. You haven’t felt it much yet, but there is a serious famine striking Ireland.

Some things have been bothering you leading up to this weekend. First, Geoffrey seems a little preoccupied with Generis. He even talks about “loving” her. You need to make sure that Generis makes it safely to the tournament. You are also worried about Cormac. His wife (of 5 years) completely dictates every major decision of the house. He even calls her “mistress”, and not in a good way. Cormac’s business is your business. Last, the English are going to be at this tournament and they simply cannot win. Any advantage you can scrape up for your side is good.

Finally, the O’Casey twins are just too good to pass up. You must find a way to bed those wenches.

What is this?

Geoffrey Fitz-Eustace (1421)

2005-10-31T10:26:00.000-06:00

Geoffrey Fitz-Eustace
Guard and manservant to Niall O’Reilly

You were born into Norman Ireland. This was an area controlled by the English until you were about 17, but now the O’Reilly’s control it. You’ve hated the English ever since you were 8, when you were beat up by several of them because of your Gaelic accent. Well, partly. They also called you SLOW. You’ve never been able to speak very fast and tell a story clearly.

Being called slow is something you absolutely detest. Every woman you tried to pursue has pushed you away, deeming themselves too good for you. Now you have a tendency to lose your temper if someone calls you slow or says that you’re not worthy of conversation.

When the O’Reilly’s moved in, you applied and got hired on as a guard to their family. Handy with the sword and able to take orders, you were the perfect hire. After successfully aiding in the defense of a monastery west of Cavan, you were made Niall O’Reilly’s personal guard/servant. Niall is the brother of Cormac, the Irish leader. Niall treats you very well, and you have made friends with Cellach Fitz-Dermot.

Cellach, the personal guard for Cormac, is a funny guy. You seem to get into a lot of bar fights when you follow him on his outings. He is always with a bar wench or two, but that’s part of what makes him fun.

The most wonderful thing about working in the O’Reilly manor is Generis. She is the sister of Cormac and Niall. You are kind of shy when you pass her in the hallways, but she is always nice to you. You might be falling in love with her…a very possessive kind of love.

This weekend there is a major dance/joust tournament in Dun Boyne that nearly everyone is attending. You are going with Niall because he is participating in the joust. You’ve heard that Generis is the prize for winning, and she isn’t at all happy about it. Cormac is an asshole for doing such a thing, Generis is so much more than a “prize”. Your only hope of having her is Niall winning. If he does, you can hope that he will give Generis to you. If he doesn’t, you are sure to lose her forever – and that can’t happen.

Seriously, if you can’t love her, no one can.

What is this?

Niall O’Reilly (1421)

2005-10-26T09:10:00.000-05:00

Niall O’Reilly
Brother of Cormac O’Reilly

In your youth you spent time as a squire to an English knight, learning the ways of the enemy. When you were 16, you fought at Agincourt and learned that the English weren’t the only scum in existence, but the French were, too. You were a blooded veteran by the time you arrived back in your homeland. You immediately began training your brethren in the ways of the English. That is, until recently.

Your brother Cormac is the leader of the O’Reilly clan. His wife is another story entirely, but more on that later. The O’Reilly’s dominate the area immediately to the west of Dublin (Cavan/Meath). He has allowed you to operate with a free hand to drive the English back over the Pale, but famine has struck. There is no easy solution to this militarily, and trading with the other Clans in Ireland has been for shit. So Cormac has decided to shake hands with the devil and negotiate with the English. He has arranged for a dance/joust this weekend (the full moon) in the town of Dun Boyne.

The thorn that has always been in the side of the O’Reilly’s is Generis, your sister. She refuses to be married off, and now you have been saddled with guarding her on this trip, for she is the prize in the joust. This couldn’t be a bigger pain in your ass, because you actually want win and sell that bitch off to slavery once and for all. She would fetch a nice price to the Clans of the west. So your plan is to leave her to her own devices once you arrive in Dun Boyne and have your guard – Geoffrey Fitz-Eustace – trail her and report her goings on back. He’s a bit slow (but don’t call him that) and seems to be smitten with her, so that should be easy. This will leave you more time to get necessary things accomplished.

Now back to Cormac’s wife, Úna. This woman didn’t exist when you left as a youth, but when you got back, Cormac seems to do her every dictate. The worst thing is, she has a French accent. No one else can detect it because the closest thing they have heard to a Frenchman is a Norman screaming in pain, which isn’t even close!

So, that makes the things you are looking to do this weekend pretty clear. You need to find out what that French spy is up to, and how she uses her magical powers to possess your brother. Then you absolutely have to make sure Generis makes it to the Joust. Finally, prove yourself more cultured than the English swine and defeat their best warriors in the joust on Saturday.

What is this?

Generis O’Reilly (1421)

2005-10-24T10:08:00.000-05:00

Generis O’Reilly
Witch, Sister of Cormac O’Reilly

You are the sister of Cormac O’Reilly. Your family has kept you away from almost all of the people that they normally associate with. There is one exception worth noting however, and that is Áine. She is the daughter of the O’Toole Clan leader and has been your friend ever since you can remember. It was she that first introduced you to magic and to being a witch. She is your closest friend. Your brother doesn’t mind you going with Áine all the time as he thinks you are going to your sewing circle. You have become quite the accomplished spell creator and Áine turns to you for many of the spells she needs. Your most notable spell is one that allows the petrifaction of an undead creature for a short time.

Ever since you became of marring age Cormac has been trying to get you married. However you have made it perfectly clear that no man is good enough for you. You are now 21 and your brother has decided to offer you as first prize in a jousting tournament, to be held on Saturday. You have tried to get out of it but he has remained firm. In fact you have pissed him off even more by asking questions about the state of the local farmlands. To ensure your “safety” your brother has assigned you a bodyguard until the tournament. Your brother Niall (and most likely his flunky Geoffrey) will be at your side until the marriage ceremony is completed.

Having Niall around you all the time makes it quite difficult to meet with your coven. However one of the few times you were able to sneak away from him to meet with Áine she told you that there was a plague starting to speed down towards the village and that she had found a ritual to stop the plague from affecting the village. She also said that the person that had to actually chant the ritual has to be a virgin. She asked you to be the central person in the casting of the spell to be rid of the plague, as you are the most talented of the virgins in the coven.

Áine gave you a potion to slip into the winner of the joust’s drink. Just in case she is unable to stop the tournament.

Work with the coven to stop the joust, protect your virginity, and lose Niall.

What is this?

I think this was the grand prize winner that year.

Cormac O’Reilly (1421)

2005-10-21T10:09:00.000-05:00

Cormac O’Reilly
O’Reilly Clan leader, Irish Leader
Ghoul and husband to Úma O’Reilly (nee Úma Noir)

You were born into the O’Reilly clan, the strongest in the Cavan/Meath area. Over the last 20 years, your clan expanded its influence. 5 years ago you fell in love with the sexiest woman you had ever seen – Úma Noir – too bad she was a Vampire. She quickly ghouled you and forced you into marriage, and you are her minion. Now, She pulls the strings and you get the headaches.

Your people are starving from a famine that has taken grip over the lands in Ireland. The only place left to get any food is Dublin. Luckily, a plague has stricken that town and they need water. Your wife has arranged a meeting with the Lord of Norman Ireland. The meetings will be held under the auspices of a Jousting competition. As a gesture of good will, you have offered to get rid of your sister (Generis) as the prize.

As for your family, you aren’t sure what it is about Generis, but you are sure that your faithful guard Cellach will find out. She keeps weird hours, and so long as she doesn’t make a scene, you don’t care. Recently, she began to press you with rather specific questions about farmers and their land holdings. Marrying her off once and for all will shut her up. Your brother Lugaid is a priest. Niall is another brother, and entered himself in the Joust. You figure if he wins, he’ll just sell your sister to the highest bidder.

You lead 4 clans. Your own, the Kelly’s, O’Toole’s, and O’Casey’s.

The Kelly’s are Toreador vampires. They are traditional Irish with virtually no influence from the Norman and English. In fact, they openly hate them. They have entered Áed into the Joust, and you are not sure if people facing him will live. You know that Úna can only protect you for so long. The only things that keep you in power over them so far is your ability to function during the day and your Clan’s faith in the one true God.

The O’Toole’s have lived in Meath as long as anyone can remember. You promised Bressal a land title if he can win the Joust. He might stake Áed in the process. When you don’t have the Kelly’s to worry about at night, the O’Toole’s give you grief during the day. On this trip, you can expect it from both of them. You might be able to shut them up by marrying Niall to the O’Toole lady Áine. The one you have to watch out for though, is Fergus, the crazed Malkavian.

Last, there are the O’Casey’s. Some like the English, some hate them, and then there are the twins – Dearbháil and Gráinne. They have a sewing circle with your sister Generis. All you know is that you’d love to have them as your mistresses. From what you understand, Cináed Lynch – a Malkavian straggler of the O’Casey’s – has a few Welshmen coming in to visit. You need to secure those Welsh in case the shit hits the fan with the English.

Good luck keeping it all together…

What is this?

On a Related Note

2005-10-20T16:55:00.000-05:00

Danah Boyd posts about what she can't post about:

"you can't blog this"

A Lesson for us All

2005-10-20T10:17:00.000-05:00

Player Knowledge vs. Character Knowledge

And knowing is half the battle. The other half? FIGHTING!

Úna O’Reilly (1421)

2005-10-19T08:50:00.000-05:00

Úna O’Reilly Formerly (Úma Noir)
8th Generation Cappadocian
Wife of Cormac O’Reilly, Childe of Guy leBlanc

About 100 years ago a loner embraced you Cappadocian named Guy leBlanc. From what you understand, he should have continued to be a loner, but decided he needed a partner instead. So for the last century you two have studied death in all of its forms. Now, with the plagues and the long war between England and France winding down, you have found another place to focus your energies. 10 years ago you two decided to bring down a region through diplomacy. Guy placed himself in the English court, and associated with a no name that was made Lord of Norman Ireland. You immediately set off for Ireland to put yourself on the other side of things.

5 years ago, you became the wife of Cormac O’Reilly and adopted his name. He was taken by your creamy skin, but was completely unaware of your undead status. During your honeymoon, you explained that an old French custom was to drink each others blood, you let him drink yours first. Voila! A ghoul. There’s a new sucker born every minute.

As it turns out, the O’Reilly’s swept the Normans practically out of existence over the next 5 years, and now you control virtually all of the area from Cavan to Dublin. This wasn’t such a good development for Guy, and he let you know in no uncertain terms. During the beat down, you devised a plan. You would contact the witches you’ve met through the years and hire them out to start a famine outside of Dublin and put Guy in touch with a small sect of Christian fanatics (the red daggers) and have them start a plague. This made sense since each group was tired of being persecuted by their rulers. Once those were under way, he could hire those fanatics to stop the famine and you could hire the witches to stop the plague, this made equal sense because the “red daggers” can’t stand crimes against nature, and the witches feel the same about the body.

Well, everything is going better than planned. The Irish want to import barley from England and the English in Dublin want to bring in fresh water from Ireland. So you and Guy arranged a meeting in Dun Boyne, just West of Dublin. The pretense for the meeting is a jousting match and dance. To further drive a wedge into things, you ordered Cormac to make his virginal (witch) daughter Generis the prize. Given that all of the Clans are coming to stake their claim on things, death and mayhem are sure to break out there.

Your job is to make the negotiations between the English Lord and Cormac as long and protracted as possible, in order to quietly incite a revolt amongst the Irish. If that doesn’t work out, you might be able to arrange to have an Englishman win the jousting tournament, causing unrest. If, in the process, you can pay Guy back for that last beating, then even better.

What is this?

Lugaid O’Reilly (1421)

2005-10-17T10:07:00.000-05:00

Lugaid O’Reilly
Brother of Cormac O’Reilly
Local Priest (member of the Order of Red)

You are the youngest of Cormac’s brothers. Ever since birth you wanted to be a priest. God called you to the priesthood and you convinced your father to let you enter the seminary in Scotland. While there, you learned a lot, and your interest lay in witches. You found out the witches were growing in number and that the Irish (because of the pagan history) were the most susceptible to their influence. You vowed to eradicate witches from Ireland and eliminate their evil manipulations. The priests at the seminary thought your vow was a childish thought and that you would grow out of it, and only took you seriously. He invited you to join society within the church dedicated to wiping out those heretics by any means necessary and you accepted. You soon realized that this was not a society whose actions were condoned by the Holy See, but you didn’t care. The society showed you how to get the power you need to wipe the witches from your land and spread the word of God.

When you returned to your family you noticed that your brother had a wife, Úna. She was someone that you had never seen before and she had a rather strange accent, you think it’s French. Your sister, Generis, was still at home and unmarried, but your brother Niall said that he was taking care of that small problem. He also expressed concern about Úna.

Since you’ve returned and donned your priestly vestments, you’ve been able to recruit other men with similar beliefs into the society. The most recent and most talented recruit is Bryan Fitzgerald, the son of an English soldier who had retired to Dublin with his wife and two children. You are very pleased with his devotion to the church and to your group. Now you are ready to hunt.

A few weeks ago you were sent a letter paying you to create a magical plague to affect witches in Dublin. You called your group together and a spell was placed on the river entering North Dublin. You were very happy with the results until Bryan told you that his mother had died from the very plague you unleashed. He questioned his decision to join the Order. You talked him out of leaving the sect by convincing him to take it as a blessing. The plague only infected witches, so she died before she could commit any further sins. At about same time, a famine struck in Ireland Proper. Úna asked for you to pray to help the innocent, and you obliged. Now you are determined to save the God fearing people through the power you have developed. William le Waleys may have come up with the answer and will reveal it at a meeting in Dun Boyne, designed to coincide with the dance/joust taking place under the full moon. You would not be shocked if it involved acquiring a human sacrifice.

You have also heard rumors that there will be a delegation from Rome may be in the Dublin area. You really don’t expect the rumor to be true but just in case you have been preparing yourself for his visit.

Protect the society, find the witches, and cure the famine.

What is this?

Blast from the Past

2005-10-17T09:28:00.000-05:00

I have obtained a copy of the characters from the Stormiecon and Clovercon SLUGS LARPs. I have also obtained permission to post them online! ;) Look for them here on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I'll only be posting the character descriptions as that's all I have. No stats or powers will be posted.

The first game will be the 1421 game from Stormiecon. It was set in Ireland and was a meeting of various factions at a manor house in the Irish countryside. There was a plague in the city and a drought in the country, amongst other emergencies. If you see a character you played, feel free to write to me at djfengshui+slugs@gmail.com about your experience in the game. Also note any awards you may have won. I played Lugaid O'Reilly and won honorable mention, so I'll post him first.

Gazpacho's Archon 29 Report

2005-10-13T14:32:00.000-05:00

Gazpacho (Tom) has posted his report about Archon 29. It includes a few pictures of SLUGS players in and out of garb. Check it out:

Archon 29 Report

CamTalk

2005-10-13T14:29:00.000-05:00

A couple of guys have started up a "Camarilla" podcast. They end up talking more about gaming in general, but the podcast has its entertainment value:

CamTalk

More of Rome Revealed

2005-10-05T15:35:00.000-05:00

The other three sections of the behind the scenes extras are up on the HBO site:

The Relentless Machine, Class Wars and They Did It & They Loved It

Share Your Stories

2005-10-04T15:35:00.000-05:00

Feel like recounting your SLUGS experience from this year (or year's past)? Had a favorite interaction or scene? Please share them with us. E-mail them to me at: djfengshui+slugs@gmail.com

Top 5 and Some Summary Information

2005-10-02T14:00:00.000-05:00

I'll try to get more complete information from Rick and maybe even game data, if possible.

Final Saturday Semi-Intelligible Report

2005-10-02T04:17:00.000-05:00

First Saturday Report

2005-10-01T23:29:00.000-05:00

Senator Looking for Anna

2005-10-01T03:58:00.000-05:00

Don't Party After 2 AM

2005-10-01T02:52:00.000-05:00