[Actual Play] The House Always Wins Chronicle

[Baroness Nerak]

There was interest in my posting journals for my game, so I figured I would give it a shot. My game is told in character journals, which are optional, so I cannot guarantee a journal for every character, or any character.

My game, “The House Always Wins” is set in Las Vegas. The PCs are chosen by their parents to reclaim a Terra Incognita that seems to have recently manifested nearby. After finding and exploring it, they began to set up a spa there, bringing in various Theoi creatures to help, one of the Lampades as a hostess, a Naiad for the spring, an Oread for the mountain, a Satyr bartender, etc. Now they are trying to draw the attention of various Pantheons to get the place running and use it as a base for expanding their own legends beyond it.

It’s my fourth campaign I have run for Scion, the first for 2e and the first single pantheon game. A lot of the players this time are less familiar with world myth so decided to stay with Greek. To their credit, they wanted to do things right and respectfully. I look forward to teaching them more.

So, my next post should be introducing you to the PCs, the next post will be some character backgrounds and setting background (from handouts). Then I will post the journals and handouts from the first arc.

The game is set up with area plotlines, which will slowly move and resolve with or without PC intervention (but have milestones measured in arcs, so the PCs will have time to intervene as they wish) and plotlines centered on the spa (which are usually the main arcs). Every named NPC has a portrait. I am not posting all those pictures but can post any people are curious about. That is a balance when I post games online what to do about the often over 100 NPC pictures.

I want to stress I am posting this for pleasure reading but also for inspiration for other’s games. So hopefully this will be helpful.

ETA: Also, check out the sister game The Ultra Violets.

[Baroness Nerak]

Avril Hart
Patron: Artemis
Pantheon: Theoi
Gender: Biromantic Asexual Woman
Concept: Cryptid Hunter
Origin: Arizona, USA
Arena: Physical
Approach: Finesse
Paths: Camping, Cryptid Hunter, Artemis’s Chosen
Role: Powerhouse
Callings: Liminal, Hunter, Warrior
Purviews: Artistry, Beasts, Epic Dexterity, Epic Perception, Forge, Metamorphosis, Wild
Titles: The Bloody Ranger, The Hawk-Eyed Tracker, Sleepless Shroud

A Cryptid Hunter and Photographer, Avril has spent most of her life on the road and in the wilderness. Her talent for photographic Cryptids, and hunting those who threatened humanity, lead to her being chosen by Artemis as one of her Scions.

Avril is not a people person, shy and quiet. Put her in the wilderness, though, she is capable and confidant, being an expert tracker and keen-eyed sharpshooter. These talents and her relic rifle make her the most dangerous member of the group in open combat, or wide-open space. Her survival skills make her an important companion away from the city.



Gemi "Jimmy Ramen" Rahman
Parent: Hermes
Pantheon: Theoi
Gender: Straight Man
Concept: Wheelman of the Gods
Origin: Jakarta, Indonesia
Arena: Physical
Approach: Finesse
Paths: Groomed For Greatness, Higher, Further, Faster Baby!, Wise Beyond Your Years
Role: Smart Guy
Callings: Guardian, Hunter, Sage
Purviews: Deception, Frost, Epic Dexterity, Journeys, Metamorphosis, Stars
Titles: Collector of Conundrums, Unshakable Spectre, Patron of Shrouded Truths

Gemi was groomed for greatness from early on, being trained along with another of other Scions in central Asia. Gemi rebelled, however, fighting his would-be mentors and escaping. Now, he seeks peace with his father, and father is ready to listen.

Gemi is best known as the team wheelman, with a car monstrously souped up by Daedalus. He is also an expert in Silat. But Gemi also collects secrets, gathering knowledge however he can, and trading that knowledge for more secrets. He also seeks to protect his companions, and anyone under the spa’s protection.


Imke Madeline Scheit. “The Lioness”
Parent: Hecate
Pantheon: Theoi
Gender: Lesbian woman
Concept: Femme Fatale
Origin: Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium
Arena: Social
Approach: Finesse
Paths: International Agent, Infiltrator, La Belle Dame Sans Merci
Role: Lancer
Callings: Liminal, Lover, Trickster
Purviews: Beauty, Darkness, Death, Deception, Epic Perception, Metamorphosis, Moon, Sky
Title: The Lioness in Shadow, The Ferryman’s Mistress, Silken Stranger

Imke was born in Belgium in the middle of World War II. Shaped by those experiences, she became a secret agent working for NATO during the cold war and later Yugoslav conflict. Retiring at the turn of the century, she recently woke up finding herself 50 years younger, and her mother in need of her again.

Imke is a dangerous spy, her tools of the trade stealth, murder, seduction, blackmail, and shapeshifting. Her multi-decade disconnect from popular culture works against her, but even so the Lioness is everywhere and anywhere, and knows how to destroy you, physically or emotionally. She is, however, trying to find her heart, a dangerous thing for a spy.



Johnny Miravino
Parent: Dionysus
Pantheon: Theoi
Gender: Pansexual Man
Concept: Son of Dionysus
Origin: Templeton, California, USA
Arena: Social
Approach: Finesse
Paths: Brought Up in the Family Business, Social Mover and Shaker, Life of the Party
Role: Heart
Callings: Creator, Lover, Trickster
Purviews: Chaos, Deception, Epic Charisma, Fertility, Metamorphosis, Passion
Title: The Cunning Linguist,(Work in Progress)

A son of Dionysus, Johnny spent much of his life moving throughout the jet set, travelling from one job to another. During this life he started expanding his marijuana business and was just settling into that when his father came calling.

Xanthias is the leader and Imke the beauty, but Johnny is the life of the party, the go to guy, the center of attention. Johnny is never alone, making friends anywhere he goes and usually has his entourage fight for him. And if the party is not exciting enough, he can make things really get crazy. But he is a caring man, which sometimes makes him feel at odds with his father.

[Baroness Nerak]

Xanthias Plutonides
Parent: Hades
Pantheon: Theoi
Gender: Straight Man
Concept: Eccentric Doctor
Origin: Eleusis, Greece
Arena: Mental
Approach: Power
Paths: A Man of Wealth of Taste, Controversial Surgeon, Prince of Hades
Role: Leader
Callings: Healer, Judge, Leader
Purviews: Death, Beast (Snakes) Earth, Health, Metamorphosis, Order
Title: The Monster Whisperer, Savior of the Broken, the Beaten and the Damned, Master of Life and Death

Xanthias was raised in the best schools by Hades and Persephone’s cult, given a valuable education, and chose to become a surgeon. Fate would intervene, however, and he found himself instead leading a rag tag group of Scions.

Xanthias is a man of powerful charisma, an intimidating figure who feels a kinship to monsters, having been raised around a Gorgon who now serves as his Girl Friday and his pet Kerbous Hound. He retains his talents for healing, his talents for leading, and his talents for command. He is a bit out of touch with his emotions, however, much to the consternation of those who care about him.

Alisa, Gorgon Follower (Xanthias)


Daedalus, Human Guide (Jimmy)


Evelyn Eventide, Hesperid Guide (Imke)




Backgrounds from Imke and Avril soon, along with some of my handouts on the territory.

[Baroness Nerak]

Avril Hart

Avril considered herself an ethical hunter. She only killed what she needed, and only of species that were a danger to their surrounding environment: overpopulated, invasive, demonic, etc. So when she first saw the Hind (a soft golden glow, too many antlers) she holstered her shotgun and raised her camera. The Hind almost seemed to wait until her chosen weapon was at the ready before it began to run.

It leapt nimbly over rocks and between trees, all of its movements too fast to be caught on camera. Avril’s mundane legs shouldn’t have been able to keep up at all, but the Hind slowed when she did. Both creature and girl were enjoying the chase. Avril was only vaguely aware of the passage of time. She grew tired and hungry, but not unmanagably. The sky darkened, but she knew if she stopped she would lose her prey. That was unthinkable. Although the Hind seemed unwilling to outrun her, it was willing to outlast her. If she died of thirst before getting its photo, then she wasn’t worthy.

A small, quiet part of Avril’s brain was aware that she was being tested. It chafed against the idea. But after all those hours, those bruises, the emptiness in her stomach, she NEEDED that picture. She needed the prize to make the pain worth it.
And then, for a split second, the Hind was distracted. A sound elsewhere in the woods, some other animal calling out for its kin. SNAP. Avril didn’t need to look through at her camera’s display to know she had gotten it.

Relief flooded her, adrenaline stopped, suddenly her limbs felt like they weighed a hundred pounds. She leaned against a tree and closed her eyes. She was nearly asleep when she felt a giant nose sniffing her hair. She opened an eye. The Hind was nuzzling her. Avril extended a hand to gently push its nose away. It started chewing a piece of her hair. She laughed shakily. When she found her voice she asked, “Did I win?”

The Hind answered by lowering itself to the ground, inviting her to sit on its back. She did. The creature’s back was more comfortable than it had any right to be, the hoof beats too rhythmic. Avril wondered if she was dreaming.

The Hind brought her home.

(Avril's Guide)

Imke Scheit

Imke Scheit was born October 27^th, 1943, in Antwerp, Belgium during the Nazi occupation. Antwerp was liberated just before her first birthday. While her family was wealthy, being Germans in Belgium, they found themselves ostracized, and young Imke found herself socially isolated away from the German-speaking parts of the country. She mastered Dutch (being in Flanders) and French quickly, and soon English as well. Still, she never quite fit in, a situation exacerbated by her Queerness.

Still, she had beauty, and she had money. Her family had kept their fortunes due only to their role in the Resistance, though even that could not save them socially. But Imke was sent to the best schools all women’s education and given opportunities few women had. Unfortunately, she was also kicked out of two schools and three Universities for affairs with teachers and students.

Still her skills in Seduction, breaking and entering, and generally getting her way were noticed by certain individuals who gave her the opportunity to help prevent Belgium from falling to a third dictator. She was trained by NATO and sent into the field working against agents of the Warsaw Pact. Imke worked in East Germany, West Germany, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Greece, and Austria against the Communists states, though she had an ambiguous role in Yugoslavia after it broke from the Warsaw Pact. She proved very good at disguising herself as being German (her natural background) Dutch, Danish, Slovene, or Austrian. Moving place to place and shifting accent to accent, Imke was a natural.

She was also a child of the Goddess of Witches, something she knew from a young age. She found herself able to make people forget interactions and blend into her surroundings with ease. She was also known for being able to compromise nearly anyone, man or woman, she came across if she put her mind to it. She used her gender to get close to wives, girlfriends, and mistresses, and manipulated them into acquiring their paramours’ secrets. If this caused her any guilt, she never showed it. Men were not safe from her either, but such was not her preferred approach. And a lot of the men could spot her as a shark because they were more on guard for such. Still, she was immensely successful and, known as the Lioness, became a favored NATO agent.

After the wall fell, on November 9^th of 1989, she was repurposed for limiting Russian influence in the former Yugoslavia but found herself in over her head. After the death of Josip Broz Tito, it fell apart, leading to not only warring factions but ethnic cleansing. Imke operated primarily in Belgrade and focused on limiting Russian influence as was her assignment, but also did what she could to slow the wheels of Genocide.

Just before the 1999 bombing began, she was moved out of Belgrade back to Belgium. While she entered Domestic intelligence work, after the World Trade Center Attack on September 11^th of 2001 she was called back to NATO intelligence. But she was 54 now. She was tired, and she had little desire to enter into what she saw as a holy war. Especially as she did not perceive herself as being on either side.

She entered a quiet retirement, painting and gardening at her family’s ancestral Home. By 2007 she was the only one there, save servants, and went out less and less. By the dawning of 2021 she was 77 and getting less active despite being spry for her age. However, that is when there was a twist of fate.

Hecate needed her now. It was time to pay her back for the gifts she had made such use of in Europe. But this call came with a reward; she woke up and appeared to be in her early 20s, and she felt like it too. After the surprise and screaming cooled down, she was met by an enchanting lady in red, Evelyn Eventide, one of the Hesperides (Imke presumed using an alias), and a new task. Head to Las Vegas in America. Serve Hecate within what should be a Spa that many divinities may come and go through, to see to the interests of the Goddess of Witches and perhaps nudge events and opinions a bit for some of the august personages there. Surely, for one accustomed to getting people wrapped around her finger this was a challenge and a reward?

Imke did not exactly see going to the USA as a reward, largely perceiving it as a nation of bumpkins. Still, she was young, she was beautiful, and she was ready to take on the world. And apparently Queerness is hip now? Imke packed her bags. It was indeed time for a new challenge.
--

So this handout had a few different paragraphs per character. I am going to combine them here into one list.

No Pantheon controls Las Vegas, indeed, emissaries and playboys alike from many different Pantheons, and darker things besides, pass into and out of the city without a care. They are rarely stopped but often noted. The Pantheon with the most influence in Vegas is the Netjer. The Egyptian Pantheon has a number of agents in the city, Scion and otherwise, who seem less interested in influencing the vicissitudes of the mortal city than the architecture and surveying the general area. Precisely what they are up to is not known, but most Pantheons are not too concerned. The Devá seem…curious…but less worried than being sure the Netjer are not getting uppity.

As far as your information has it, the second most organized Pantheon group are the Teōtl of Mexica. The Teōtl lurk more on the fringes. While some are haunting the strip, their base and goals are similarly obfuscated to the Netjer, but they are even harder to track down. Common thought it they may be preying on some visitors who may not be missed, but this is pure conjecture.

The Mojave is an unforgiving desert but maintains quite a bit of wildlife. Much of them are lizards, snakes, and turtles. There are also a half dozen dangerous venomous snakes. More significantly, there are a significant number of powerful beasts called Nemeans. Nemeans are powerful and cannot be hurt by slashing or piercing weapons. Killing Nemeans is a way to achieve status among Scion hunters. Most Nemeans are Reptiles in the Mojave, but Nemean Boars happen. The Desert also has burrowing wormlike creatures of various sizes, which are more unique to the Mojave Desert. Precisely how big they get are not known but…there are stories…

Avril has heard rumors that a Cockatrice is somewhere in the Mojave. Such a creature probably gives the strip a wide berth but is dangerous to desert travelers. Hunting such a creature is likely to be dangerous; you will want to prepare carefully before setting out.

As far as knowing what is out there, the Netjer have a Scion of Set named Maggie Dalton who keeps an eye on supernatural threats coming from the Mojave and knowing who is active on the hunt. You could do worse than getting on her good side. On the other hand, you might want to avoid an Authority figure at all costs, up to you.

Your sources suggest the best place to get in touch with the Teōtl a Western bar called Tex Cat’s on the outer fringes of town, away from the strip. Look for a black cat in a Stetson on a neon sign. There are no guarantees a visit to Tex Cat’s will be safe.

An agent of the Netjer is Merneith, Abigail Khan among mortals. Her precise role is not clear, but she has a finger on quite a bit of the Underworld activity. The assumption is to keep criminals from interfering too much in the Netjer’s business. Whether she is a Scion or not and of whom is not well known. What is known is people go out of their way not to anger her, and in general she does not make this very difficult. Despite clearly not being at the top of the Netjer hierarchy, she certainly behaves like she owns the place. How she relates to the Teōtl you don’t know.

Word is Native American Pantheons and their Scions give Vegas a wide berth. While rumor has it that this is due to some curse, as far as you can tell no one ever actually said that. What is known is while some Titanspawn related to various Native Pantheon do enter from time to time, the various native Pantheons are not. Well, except the Teōtl. They have no hesitation at all.

As someone connected to the party side of Vegas, the Netjer to contact would be Rashawn Thompson. A Scion of Sobek, he makes a point of being a concoct point for visitors. He looks intimidating you are told but apparently a friendly and laid back dude, at least when things are going well, he is also a fairly large man with an entourage of Ushabti warriors, just in case. Not a problem for you, right?

On the darker side, Margarita Rios-Garcia, a Scion of Tlazōltéōtl, is rumored to have some fucking awesome underground parties. Exclusive. Invitation only. Not everyone gets out. Apparently if you like your parties with wild drugs and partygoers this is who to find. Wait, Wikipedia says Tlazōltéōtl is a poop goddess? That can’t be right can it?

What could be more exciting than a posse full of monster hunting Elvis impersonators? You are not sure who he is a Scion of, or even what Pantheon, but Bruce Haas and his team hunt monsters and provide security for parties. While evidence suggests he is not working for or with the Netjer, you are not sure.

Vegas has a significant Dead population. While there are not more native ghosts than one would expect, visitors who die there often remain. Precisely why is not known, but they don’t seem to be working for anyone, nor do they seem trapped per se. The party just never ends, but continues forever, at least until they sink into the Underworld, but some have remained decades. They don’t get up to much, as a rule, but sometimes they do see things.

According to your scouts there is an apparently empty hospital left a bit outside the strip when one was built closer. It’s popular with Urban Explorers and may or may not be haunted. No rumors of monsters but…maybe investigate to be sure before building a cult in there. Still, for a man of wealth and connections it can be done.

Those looking to expand local influence without kissing up to Netjer or wallow with the Teōtl may find agents about related to the Shen. Not the Bureaucracy itself, rather a curious figure called Pipa Jing. Known for consuming sinners, she fought Chinese heroes even as she occasionally worked for the more vengeful gods. Those who know the Jade Pipa know where she is, the fox Demon Da Ji, scourge of heaven, cannot be far behind.

--
While you have not spent a lot of time in Vegas, you have heard a few things about the local color and mystic places. This handout is just a few places you have heard about.

Your Spa has a built-in gate that can be used by various gods to access your Spa. Initially only Olympians, but that can be changed based on need if someone has the key and allows it. It is not, however, the only such place in Vegas

Touchstones can be used to travel between places in The World with a similar resonance. Pyramids, henges and such. This can save you a lot of air travel. You do have to be aware of such a place to travel to it, but if you are there are no ends of options. There may be Gates or Strange Places, as well as Touchstones, you are unaware of.

The Luxor (Sphinx and Pyramid)

The Luxor has a number of Touchstones that can get one to several places in Egypt. From the Sphynx to the Valley of the Kings, or Valley of the Queens, or actual Luxor, travel to and from Las Vegas to Egypt is easy. On a practical level, this means the Netjer can easily get to and from their homeland to Vegas, and essentially own the Luxor.

The Luxor is not only useful to the Netjer. The Pyramid can be used to Travel to Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras or Peru, among other places. This means the Aztec Teōtl and Incan Apu can move their Scions and creatures to and from there as well. While the Apu are not known to have a presence in Vegas, the Teōtl are, and while they don’t control the Luxor, they do find travel to and from via it useful.

Rumor has it the Luxor has a gate to Duat. While most actual pyramids have a gateway to the Underworld, the Luxor is a recreation, so it is not for sure to have the connection. Of course, you can feel free to ask the Netjer about it.

Caesar’s Palace (Coliseum)

While more minor than the Luxor, Caesar’s Palace has a connection to Rome. One can travel swiftly from Coliseum to Coliseum this way. Not as many similar locations but still, it is a quick way to Europe. Caesar’s Palace is under Netjer control, but they absolutely do not put any limits on Theoi Scions or immortals traveling via it. They keep an eye on things, certainly, but they would not dare cause an interpantheon incident by blocking it, especially for often allies no matter how much they dread the idea of too many Theoi Scions in a place they have any sort of responsibility for.

The Theoi have a reputation is what I am saying.

New York-New York (Statue of Freedom)

The Statue of Liberty present at the New York-New York hotel offers and easy way to get to the East Coast of the United States. As in all cases, the Netjer observe. A surprising number of other locations also have Statues of Liberty, actually, including one in County Donegal, one in Pristina Kosovo, a few scattered all over the United States, and even one in Vietnam. Paris also has a Statue of Liberty in the Seine, but this Touchstone is not the usual route taken to get there. Rather, a hotel with a tower and more Parisian theme tends to be the one to do that.

The Paris Hotel (Tower)

The Paris hotel allows travel to (wait for it) Paris, via the tower. Interestingly, similar towers can go to other places if you happen to know the local, including most notably Japan. Your Pantheon has all but wiped out the Nemetondevos, so none are going to object to taking it to Paris. Some may argue it is in bad taste for a Theoi to do this but on the other hand, the Eiffel Tower long postdated the Nemetondevos, so perhaps not. The Kami don’t mind using it to go to Japan so long as some appropriations are made. For their part, this gets watched less by the Netjer, though they are aware of it, and the Kami don’t seem to use it much to get to the city.

There are several other major hotel casinos which may well have a Touchstone or Gate within, such as the Excalibur or the Sahara. However, there is one or two more locations worth mentioning.

Aspasia’s Labyrinth

Aspasia’s Labyrinth is not a Touchstone, but a large labyrinthian club in South Vegas. The labyrinth is run by a human woman calling herself Aspasia, who is definitely not the historical one. “Aspasia” is a popular Deifan who is said to know many Scions, and likely has designs on Scionhood, or possibly being the mother of a Scion, herself. She has had some luck getting Scions, immortals, and even monsters to show up. Her club is often exciting but not necessarily safe. Dance floors and balconies, even small bars, and connected by winding hallways, and one can in fact get very lost here. Rumor has it a few disappearances have happened too, but the law tends to be kept away.

The greater opinion among the Pantheons seems to be ‘meh.’ Aspasia is far from the only Deifan with a major following. Being seen with her can build your profile, albeit in a way connecting you to, well, fandom. The Theoi as a whole have no issue with it but wish she chose a different name, by and large. The original Aspasia is unavailable for comment.

The Mojave Desert

The Mojave is a place of intense magical energy. Even the spa’s place may in part be due to this suffusion. The Desert has no lack of monsters, some of which can be enormous. But also potentially places useful for finding material for building Relics There are a number of reasons to brave the Mojave for those inclined, including hunting big game. You might just want to walk without rhythm.

The Mojave can be used to connect to a greater Axis Mundi desert that connects to other deserts. This is extremely dangerous to do unless you are very well prepared for desert survival, but it is possible.

Also, Area 51 and a Clown themed motel with a Cemetery behind it. It has dolls also. That is all out there too. Then there is the haunted brothel that is still running with a crashed plane beside it. And all those empty ghost towns that dot the landscape of the Mojave and may or may not be really empty. Everything in this paragraph is, by the way, very very real.

[Baroness Nerak]

The First arc was a four-session story wherein the PCs arrived in Las Vegas and got set up at their Spa, eventually named “The Lucky Lindworm.” The PCs meet, overcome a few foes, get allies to set up their Spa, and take a look around Vegas before showing the facility to their parents.

We only have journals from Imke and Xanthias, with Xanthias covering the second two sessions and Imke all four. I also have a short vignette near the end there.

Session I

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: ALFA ONE

Las Vegas, USA

Arrived in Las Vegas 0230Z, established myself at RESIDENCE. Familiarized myself with territory.

Met TEAM for dinner 48 hours later 0230Z at “The Bellagio”. Other than surprise Gorgon no issues. Never expected to type the preceding sentence. Departed for SITE at 0400Z. Encountered three hostiles “Men In Black” who were removed by force without difficulty. Some hostile fauna, but infiltrated cave without issue. Arrived at target SITE by 0430Z. Definitely not in Kansas anymore. (1)

Impressions of TEAM for ASSIGNMENT

Hart, Avril: Daughter of Artemis. Reserved, bold, poor table manners. Butch. Photographer and Hunter. Skilled Outdoorswoman. I want her to fucking destroy me physically and emotionally at least one good time. No concerns.

Miravino, Johnny: (Not real name?) Son of Dionysus. Seems intent to avoid being alone. Draws crowds. Commands Pestilence. Is friendly, ingratiating. He is a man difficult to dislike. No concerns.

Plutonides, Xanthias: Son of Hades. Maintains a service Kereboi and Gorgon handler. Unused to being around human? Debonair., friendly, but does not allow much to slip out. Unsure if he has handler due to being untrustworthy or unreliable. Bears watching. No other red flags. Dog is adorable.

Rahman, Gemi: ALIAS "Jimmy Ramen.” Scion of Hermes. From Jakarta. It’s no Kuala Lumpur but there are worse places to kill a man. Seems friendly, eager to please. Wheelman. Guide. Helpful. Stay on good side of. At the very least, he puts up with “White People White Peopling” well. No Concerns.

Scheit, Imke: Scion of Hecate. Such a fucking fossil she writes up reports as if she still has superiors to read them. Doubtlessly, this is a sign of madness. Many concerns.

(1)Actually not that far from Kansas right now. Surreal.

EINDE
__

Imke will loosen up as more journals come out. The room set up for the PCs only had enough seats for them, but Johnny came with an entourage of human followers, and Xanthias brought his Gorgon Girl Friday Alisia and his Kerberos Hound to the dining room. An extra chair was fetched so Alisia could sit, at least.

They met their Guides, then moved on to the site, a tor near Hendersonville. There they encountered MIBs and some giant Scorpions, just to give them a few minor foes to fight. They did better against the Scorpions than MIBs, probably the improved grasp of the combat system.

The MIBs are tied to an in Vegas plotline, but it has not really kicked off yet. The Scorpions were just fun monsters to fight.

--

Session II

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: ALFA TWO

Las Vegas, USA

Finished clearing SITE at 0435Z. Xanthias convinced a Lindworm who had taken up residence to allow us in. A number of assistants were brought in by Daedalus, Evelyn, and Lykos. This group included:

TWO Oreads (to help shape the stone)
A Baker’s Dozen of Maenads (to help with security)
ONE Lar (to act as local household spirit)
TWO Lemures (to act as labor)
ONE Unseelie Fae Noblewoman (to do magical paintings)

The group set about to get things set up for ASSIGNMENT. The Fae, whose name is Aoibhe, went to take the air and I followed. Aoibhe was a charming conversationalist, and we soon found ourselves in a room, sharing a passionate embrace. Later that night when we retired, she did so in my chamber. (1)

The next afternoon at 2200Z discussed ASSIGNMENT

Xanthias will oversee work at SITE
Avril and I will approach the Netjer to assure cooperation.
Jimmy and Johnny will approach the Teōtl
I will approach LOCAL AGENCY
Several of us will investigate “Aspasia’s Labyrinth” to get examinations if the ground.

Am enjoying ASSIGNMENT already (2).

(1) I have not been with anyone in over twenty years. Aoibhe was a delightful lover, despite being inexperienced with women (though not in general). I did, I think, rather impress her. We agreed it would be best for her to use that room or the one at RESIDENCE. Hopefully tomorrow night we will use the large bedroom there.

(2) Mother chose a woman who is a master of infiltration, seduction, information warfare, assassination, and breaking wills via non torture related means to help run a Spa. I am fairly sure she does not want me to be just making sure the pipes are working (3). It will be a nice change up. I miss Europe though. America is too new, and too loud.

(3) And if she does, hey, I could use a vacation and spending time with pretty girls who may not get upset when I flirt.

--

Yeah the Lindworm was the boss fight, but Xanthias channeled a Marvel through his Beast (Snake) purview and managed to negotiate/intimidate the reptile into backing down.

The various mythological folks brought in were based on parents, the Oreads from Artemis, the Maenads from Dionysus, the Lemures from Hades, the Lares from Hermes, and the Dark Fae from Hecate. Traveling into the tour took them through a portal into a Terra Incognita where the site is inside a mountain and they have a view of a primeval forest below, city in the distance. So the Oreads can reshape that, especially Echo who is very potent at this stage.

The Lemurs are Sullis and Donum, the lead Maenad is Evangeline, the Oreads are Sapphira and Echo, the Lares they got to name and the PCs went with Alexis for a gender-neutral name. and the Aos Sidhe was of course Aoibhe.

[Baroness Nerak]

Session III

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: ALFA THREE

Las Vegas, USA

Met with Marneith at 2300Z. She is a somewhat severe woman, but very beautiful. A Mummy apparently, unsure if she was a former pharaoh or not. She wanted to know what TEAM was doing, and I told her as much as she needed to know. In the end, she warmed to me somewhat. They usually do.

I returned around 0030Z to find the others had recruited a Satyr bartender named Darius and Naiad water expert named Lenore. Xanthias also noted he was trying to recruit Sapphira, which was fine with me. Gal has some nice tattoos. If Lenore and Sapphira bond with the place, they will be part of it, sort of possessing it, knowing what happens in the walls or waters. This could be very valuable. I will probably seduce both of them to make sure I have access to this information. And it seems fun. Sapphira is clearly bisexual, I am not sure about Lenore but I am confidant. She has a pulse even if she does not look like she does.

Sadly, Echo is not staying. I am not surprised, but slightly disappointed. She is beautiful and confidant, like Aoibhe, and I heard tell of her from long ago. Anyway.

We decided to go to Aspasia’s Labyrinth, outside of Johnny who wished to meet with a Teōtl Scion named Margarita Rios-Garcia. I traveled home at 0200Z with Aoibhe so she could rest somewhere posher. She talked me into wearing a corset, miniskirt, and knee-high boots to the club though. Those were intended for later when we were alone. I did look good in them, and an internet search showed it was not too far out there for club wear. Silently vowing to myself Aoibhe would learn hard lessons about what happens when I don my leather, I went to the club at 0400Z.

I was rather uncomfortable at first. I still like my appearance, but I was not wearing much. Granted, I was not the only one. Jimmy was quite the gentleman though. We even danced some. I got more comfortable after a while. Xanthias remained surrounded by women (Alisa, Echo, and Sapphira) and struck quite a figure. Enough for Aspasia, on her dais, to take notice. Still, he went deeper into the place rather than speaking to her when noticed. While it has a large open room in the front, there are several doorways leading to winding halls full of people.

It certainly reminded me of clubs I have been in before. It’s been so long since I went in without a specific clandestine reason that I found myself at a bit of a loss. We met a Scion named Tanith Ravenscroft, who described herself as a “watcher” of the place. Xanthias took point in talking to her. I noticed that she was interested romantically in a woman called Hatshepsut, which I am unsure if she is the original or, like Aspasia, using the name. She was interested in a Scion of Sobek named Rashawn Thompson also, the same one Marneith mentioned. She gave us a beware of this and that and did not mention her birth parent or pantheon. Between Tanith and Aspasia, there are serious egos in here.

We spoke to Johnny, who had run into a Scion of Chernobog (Communist?) named Milos Grozny. Grozny means The Terrible, but he did not translate that part. He met a number of women from Southeast Asia also, who seemed to confuse him with their questions.

For my part I have had enough of these ego cases for one night. I am home now, and here, as Aoibhe will soon find, I am Queen. Now where did I leave my crop…

EINDE

Driving interlude

As Xanthias drove through the garish neon kaleidoscope that was the early AM streets of Vegas he didn’t find it all that different. Brighter and louder than LA perhaps but the same feeling of restless insomniac energy. The chill was different. California was humid. Vegas was dry and at night it got decidedly more crisp and cold than either he or Alesia were accustomed to. The creak of leather sounded from the passenger seat as his childhood friend borrowed deeper into his suit jacket.

“You all right?” he asked quietly.

“I haven’t drunk like that since school.”

“Is that a good or bad thing?”

“I’ll tell you in the morning,” she murmured, “But I don’t think I’m going to make a habit of it.”

“I’m a little surprised you didn’t end up leaving with someone. Honestly, the way you and that blue haired girl were all over each other I was almost expecting you to drag her off into the maze.”

“I’m not that kind of gorgon!” But Alesia did blush and squirm a bit as some of the things the other woman had whispered in her ear came to mind. But at least it got your attention.

“Fair enough. You did at least get her number I hope.”

“Yeah. Her name’s Kiki and she certainly wanted me to ravish her…”

“Why didn’t you?”

“XANTHIAS!”

He chuckled. “You’re the one who always complains that the one of us who can get a date doesn’t want one and the one that wants one can’t find anyone.”

“Yeah… but not sure we’ve really got anything more than her monster-girl fetish in common. Not exactly much of a foundation there.”

“It’s more than Breakfast at Tiffany’s. And maybe not a relationship but certainly a nice hot fling.”

“This… is true I suppose.”

“And she’s certainly beautiful.”

“Maybe I should give YOU her number.” Or invite you to join in...

“Sorry. I just want you to be happy Alesia. You are smart and fun and deserve better than you tend to get from people.”

She started to reach over but couldn’t bring herself to open his coat and let the lingering warmth and scent of him escape into the cold night air. “Thanks.”

“So. What about that gentleman with the dreadlocks? He seemed… handsome.”

Alesia lifted an eyebrow and found her lip quirking slightly. Most couldn’t read anything from Xanthias but she knew him well enough to catch that hint of disapproval. “Xavier Chartreuse,” she said quietly, “I’m pretty sure he’s more dangerous than I am.” And that’s what makes him so sexy…

“He looked human.”

“I think he is. But I’m pretty sure he’s a dealer. The stuff that isn’t getting legalized.”

Xan frowned. “Maybe you shouldn’t…”

“But his real passion is music.”

“I see. You seem to have gotten to know him fairly well.”

“Only guy that managed to hold my attention for more than one drink. I let him buy me two.”

“Three by my count. Just glad he didn’t try to slip you anything.”

Jealous much? “Sapphira and I had each other’s back on that front. I like her. I hope she takes you up on staying. I haven’t had a girl’s night out since… ever.”

Xan relaxed and nodded. “I am rather fond of her myself and she’s quite skilled. She would be quite an assent to have as part of the staff. And I could certainly learn a thing or two about earth shaping from her as well.”

A soft hiss erupted from Alesia’s hair. “Thought you had your eye on Lenore.”

“I hope to help her certainly. But I do not have my eye on either of them like that Alesia.”

She did her best to impersonate his voice, “Well why not?”

“Because I am not that kind of gorgon either.”

Their mingled laughter rose as they pulled up to the house they’d so recently taken up residence in together.
-- I described Marneith as “basically a Mummy 1999 type Mummy.”

Main things not covered by the journals is Lenore came on Echo’s recommendation. The Oread noted that Lenore had been in a lake that was a popular suicide spot and had an air of melancholy most of the time but was not dangerous. The pond was being drained so she needed a new home.

Also, while Grozny had a role play in Johnny’s night, he also met three women from the general area of Thailand. The three seemed to be (somewhat desperately) trying to move a large amount of cocaine; seeing Johnny’s pot leaf they guessed he was a drug dealer (and in fact, asked outright if he was a drug dealer. They do not seem good at this). He decided not to smuggle drugs for strange women and had no buyers for hard drugs anyway. On leaving he noticed a pair of Frost Giant thugs moving through the lobby who looked in the room the women were in, but one had cast the illusion of a privacy screen they hid behind. Based on the info he shared with the group, they determined one of them was a Raksashi. The other two he was unsure but they were very cold to the touch…

Also I had someone make a roll to realize “Milos Grozny” would be “Milos the Terrible.” Also had Brian Thompson as Milos.

Xanthias used a Health marvel to give Aspasia a frisson when she looked down at him. Smooth.

--

Session IV

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: ALFA FOUR

Las Vegas, USA

ASSIGNMENT has been completed. Now we have to run the place.

We picked up a few recruits:

>Tristessa, a Lampad, and a well-connected one.

>Hikaru, a talking umbrella. Why not, I guess?

We also made contact with a pair of Dwarfs, Hrolof and Krysta, in town. Seemed like jovial sorts, bonded with Avril.

The Social was a success. All the Patrons seemed pleased. Mother took me aside to talk to me about the conflict between God and Titan, one our Pantheon is very cavalier about. We will need to know about people on all sides to survive, she suggested, even going outside the God-Titan dynamic. She suggested this crossroads she put me on is dangerous, but I was basically dead, or all but. If this time is short, this is a game that eats its players.

At least there are beautiful women to woo.

Speaking of which, apparently while we were down there Johnny seduced Demeter. We wanted to give Hades time with Persephone to enjoy each other’s company and Johnny…did that. Better him than me, the whole Dodecatheon is nuts. Anyway.

I did meet Persephone, who was very pleasant. Mother was fascinating to talk to.

But I am troubled. Am I even on their side? Whose side is Hecate on? Does it even matter anymore?

I am going to go lay down

EINDE

--

Colloquy

Tristessa walked into the spring from which she heard voices and found the Oreads Echo and Sapphira and the Naiad Lenore reclining in the bubbling spring. Echo, the only one clothed of the group, sat in an ornate Kimono trailing her feet into the pool and trying not to watch the other two women too closely, while Sapphira and Lenore soaked. Tristessa herself disrobed in the dim light and slipped into the bubbling water as well.

“So…how are all of you settling in?” the pale woman asked, looking into each of their faces in turn.

“All of you settling in.” mumbled Echo. No one acknowledged hearing it.

“Avril is badass, and Johnny is pretty cool…” Lenore noted.

“They aren’t bad.” Sapphira sighed. “None of the men are grabby, none of the women jealous harridans, about as much as you can really ask for. Better watch Imke, the German though. She’s a shark.”

“Oh?” The Lampad raised a manicured eyebrow above her ebon eye.

“She seduced that Dark Fae, Aoibhe, pretty much right after she walked in. Has her around her finger. Imke’s fine. I am pretty sure they both see it as a fling. I spoke to Aoibhe today- she was well. Just caught in the whirlwind.” Echo’s soft voice was barely audible over the bubbling of the pool.

“Well Hecate has decided she is…interesting. I knew she was a Lesbian,” Tristessa said offhandedly. “The Dark Lady was pleased with her work so far. I can handle her. What about the others?”

“Xanthias is nice!” Lenore spoke up. “He kept them from killing Lucky and has been super nice. He did not deny me because of my…history. He has been making sure we are all safe.” Tristessa nodded. “Anything else?”

“He and Alisa have… a… thing.” The Tattooed Oread [Sapphira] began. “They have a lot of working things out to do. I don’t recommend getting involved with either of them. I suspect they will be a situation to watch.”

“A situation to watch.” Again, Echo mumbled idly to herself.

“Who is Alisa’s father, anyway?” the blonde Naiad spoke up. Echo and Tristessa both turned and gave her a look at once. “Wait what?” Now Sapphira was paying attention. “What’s going on?”

“Don’t worry about it, little one.” Echo’s voice was unnaturally soothing. Sapphira realized she did not really care who Alisa’s father was anyway. Lenore noticed, and with a glance at the pale Oread decided not to ask anything else.

“How about Johnny? How is he?” Tristessa wanted to get things moving.

“How is he.” Echo said to herself again.

‘He’s fine. Quietest child of Dionysus as I have ever seen, but of course he still tends to be surrounded by fans. Never given me bad vibes, even ones overcome by good times. Less violent than his dad, I think, but we will see.” Sapphira spoke up this time. “We get along pretty well. We are more than tits and ass to him, and he has good weed. He hung with Echo and I some.”

“And Jimmy?” Tristessa looked into their faces.

The Hesper Evelyn Eventide then entered the room. “Oh good, I found where the other Nymphs were hiding. How fucked are we?” She also slipped off her crimson garb, as Echo watched appreciatively. Soon she slipped in the water too, making sure to not get too close to the deathly pale Naiad in the water.

“They are fine, they just have to handle the social. I think they will. I will stick around to make sure they do.” Echo spoke up, eyes still following the Hesper.

“Good we were talking about…Jimmy? Hermes’s son?” Evelyn reclined in the water.

“Yeah I was telling Tristy here none of the guys are assholes and none of the girls are psychos. Jimmy is fine. He hasn’t got his dad’s powers of subtlety yet, wanting to learn as much as he can, but he will be fine. Long as he does not get frustrated and sawed off.” Sapphira’s blue eyes move from Evelyn to Tristessa. “Like I was saying about Johnny. They are finding their feet. I talked to Darius, and he is gonna help bring them up right.”

Evelyn nodded. “Yeah I spoke to Lykos when we met at the Bellagio. Same deal. I think he and Darius are out drinking tonight. They are bringing Hikaru I think. “

Echo laughs sharply. “I didn’t hear about that.”

“So I know I am the young’un here,” Sapphira started, “But…why are you going by an obvious pseudonym?” She looked at the Hesper.

“It’s a long story. Maybe I will tell you sometime. For now? Imke’s star is on the rise. I think she can protect me from certain parties, and I plan to remain close. In her bed if she keeps doing well.”

“Are you worried about Aoibhe?” Sapphira kept watching her.

“Worried about Aoibhe.” Echo mumbled.

Evelyn shook her head. “I don’t think anyone is expecting that to last. Imke isn’t in love with her.”

“What happens if Imke does not meet your…expectations?” Sapphira raised an eyebrow.

Evelyn shook her head again languidly. “She won’t fail to. Does not bear worrying about.” The Hesper’s voice had a tone of finality.

“Anyway we also mentioned Xanthias and Alisa.” Sapphira began, and Evelyn chuckled. “Those kids. That’s awesome. I hope it does not explode. Alisa’s mother could cause some chaos.”

“Put my money on Johnny for the causing chaos, not Medusa.” Lenore added cheerfully.

Tristessa spoke up having been listening awhile. “If Medusa gets out of line she gets cast back into Hades. She will behave. This is her last chance. She knows she can’t mess this up. Xanthias has to get this right.”

“No pressure on him or Imke then.” Echo added, dreamily. She disrobed and slipped into the pool herself next to Sapphira. “It’s a bit unfair. But I will be keeping an eye on things. We need people like them in this next generation of the Pantheon. The Theoi needs some men who aren’t bastards.” She sunk down to her chin.

“What about Avril though?” There was a pause, as a smile passed across the women in the pool except the questioner Lenore, who seemed confused. “What? Did I miss something?”

Tristessa laughed. “She has a look that takes after her patron. A masculine looking woman in a very good way. Apparently, the others noticed that. “

Sapphira spoke up. “I am just saying I have had a fling with exactly one woman, and it was after I got here, and with Avril and Imke walking around I’d think I was sent here to be corrupted.” Echo silently patted her head in an affectionate, if somewhat dominating, manner.

“Not my type as much I guess.” Lenore sunk in the water a bit self-consciously.

“More for us. “Tristessa laughed. “But seriously, anyone here laying claim? Let’s try to take a page from their book and cooperate rather than compete. I guess Evelyn has her eye on Imke.”

The Hersper looks to the Lampad. “I am not going to make an exclusive claim on a woman who will likely be among the most beautiful among the Theoi. That’s a path to ruin. Just don’t come between us or try to interfere, and please be careful. She was sharpening her claws on Aoibhe. She has a history of seducing and destroying men and women alike, if not for fun then because she is tasked with it because she does it well. She hopes to no longer have to, but I wager her skill will be too useful not to use, and she will want to avoid making it her legend. Just because she never seems to sleep with men unless she needs to, and if it becomes her legend she will have no choice.”

Echo spoke up “I am going to recommend not interfering in Xanthias and Alisa. Not unless things get stable between the two of them. I am not getting involved though, so that is up to you.”

Lenore peered out of the water, only her eyes on the surface though her voice is clear as a bell. “That sucks he seems nice.”

“I mean I won’t stop you. I’d just rather you not be added to the statuary.” Sapphira rolled a shrug. “Nah don’t have my eye on anyone. Fun flings, maybe.” She looked to Tristessa. “You?”

“I am not here looking for a Husband.” She smiled, then glances at Echo, “or a Wife. We will see how it goes. I just got here. I don’t plan on getting in anyone’s way. But we need each other’s back. Do you all think you can do that?”

One by one, hands came together in the center of the pool. Lenore’s and Echo’s quicky, soon Sapphira’s and Tristessa’s as well. Finally Evelyn slowly added her hand. “So long as I need not betray my charge.”

Tristessa shook her head. “Harming Xanthias would send me to my doom at the hands of his Dread mother, much less his father. Avril is a chosen of Artemis and will surely honor her patron and protect us. No, we just need to look out for each other. Not against them. For us.”

Evelyn gripped the other hands. “For us.”

--

Scenes from a soirée

Persephone sighed quietly and glanced back at her husband and son as her mother drew her away from the room. Demeter’s pace was a little brisk but at least she’d refrained from saying anything unkind. It pained her that the two loves of life seemed irreconcilable but after centuries it did seem to be the way of it.

There was a bar set up in the adjoining room and a few of the other guests still present but her gaze was caught by the sight of Dionysus and his son showing off their bar tending tricks together. They did make a handsome sight and she was feeling like a drink.

---

As the smile slipped away from Hades’ features the shadows around him thickened but he nodded as he turned his full attention to his son and listened as he explained the progress they’d made and outlined the planned expansions. All quite reasonable and organized, just as he’d expect from the boy. He did note that the pocket square of his suit matched the smart professional dress Alesia was wearing. Interesting. He glanced over to the young gorgon and her mother, speaking quietly across the room.

Then Xanthias asked about Sullis and Donom staying. He explained how useful they had been and could continue to be, but unspoken was his interest in giving them a longer respite from the underworld. It was a minor enough gift and if the pair had done well no cause not to allow them the break.

They left the arrival chamber and Hades frowned slightly to see they were entering the same lounge that Demeter and Persephone were in. But then he noticed the amused expression on his wife’s features and took in the way Dionysus’ boy had her mother’s rapt attention. A moment later and the pair left together. He glanced to his son and noticed the pleased smile on his face as he stepped to take his mother’s hand and guide her over to join them.

“There,” he said as he nodded to both of them, “Now we can begin the tour.”

The gods looked at each other and grinned.

---

The forest had that primordial air to it that was common in Terra Incognito realms and while such was not normally Medusa’s preference, the inherent sense of isolation and vibrant life was a pleasing change from the dreariness of the underworld. It was a relief to see that her daughter had dressed appropriately for the occasion. The girl wasn’t dumb, far from it, honestly she was too clever for her own good most of the time. And most certainly much too rebellious when the mood struck, which it seemed to without proper warning. The world belonged to humans and humans were vicious and fickle and dangerous and flaunting that you were not one of them could only end one way. And having the favor of a scion was no guarantee since the gods were no better.

At least the spa seemed poised to succeed. And Xanthias was better than most scions thanks to her hard effort. Better still, the others seemed remarkably sane as well. Of course, so much going so well would only make fate’s sudden but inevitable betrayal that much worse.

“Over this way are the vineyards,” Alesia was saying as she suddenly stopped, “Pet project of Johnny’s as you can guess. But even with his fertility powers it’s not really much to see yet…”

Medusa looked over and spotted the lone figure of Xanthias sitting at one of the covered stone benches scattered about.

“Nothing I haven’t seen before,” she interrupted with a smirk, “But perhaps you should show me this most fortunate of lindwyrms instead?”

--

The last session was focused on finishing things up. The Dwarfs, Hrolof and his daughter Krysta got the place “wired” for power and internet. One of the Lampades going by the name Tristessa arrived to act as a hostess and majordomo as well. I did not want to add her too early to make sure the PCs were making all the important decisions. The talking umbrella was a Karakasa-Kozō called in by Echo; her wife Erika Lacey is a Kami and has connection to many Yōkai. Echo also ended up chasing a Shirime with a broom until Avril menaced it with a rifle. Maybe don’t Google Shirime at work.

The PCs had little opposition in this story, beyond a few enemies to bulldoze at the start. This was because I wanted them to spend most of it getting a feel for their characters and a feel for how the Spa would work. I wanted it to reflect the PCs after all. Also, a low threat way to get used to the system, as only two players had played Scion before and no one me included had ever played Storypath.

Adding pictures to this thing is complicated, but if folks want any NPC pics I will manage.

So we are one session into the second Arc, but I will put a few posts up with more info and, of course, would be happy for questions or comments. I will probably also post the Influencers sheet just so it is here too. Thanks for reading, hope it is inspirational or at least entertaining.

[Baroness Nerak]

In about a fortnight I am going to be posting the next few journals. I wanted to repost this to have it in this thread before I post those. Enjoy.

Lords and Ladies,

I have made a few discreet enquires and have put together a list of some good Influencers you may want to bring in. I can make the arrangements. I’ve done research and thrown in some personal anecdotes as well but been as objective as possible. I have also asked around for more views. You may want to do two groups if you use several. I hope it is helpful. Let me know if you have questions

Tristessa



Annika

Background: Jötun, Frost Giant; Æsir. From northwestern Sweden. She/They

Annika is a Frost Giant, or Jötun, and cousin to a number of Æsir. In her natural state she is about five and a half meters tall (around eighteen feet in old money) but usually among mortals she shrinks to a “only” about two meters (about seven feet in old money). Annika is known for her “Top of the Mountain” Blog where she climbs mountains, goes rappelling, goes BASE jumping and generally does things that would be suicidal for most people, including impressive feats of strength. Her work hard/play hard style appeals to a lot of Æsir, but she is going to be on the wrong side during Ragnarök apparently, so she is not exactly trusted. However, as she gets along with both sides her presence at the spa would be noticed by both, plus she appeals to the muscle girl crowd.

Risk Assessment: High. She is a giant. Jötun are living metaphors for destruction. But she can play nice. However, if things go wrong, they go very, very wrong.

Personal Information: I don’t know much about Annika’s romantic inclinations. She likes men, and if she is not Bi or Pan the world will be drowned by Sapphic tears. She parties hard drinking heavily but not usually drugs so much. Annika is an Omnivore.

Darius: Hell. Yes.

Evelyn: Remember Jötun n are cunning bastards. Don’t underestimate her because she is a giant. She is likely a talented illusionist as well as having frost abilities. I don’t know enough about her personally to add much to that.

Hrolof: She is okay for a Giant, I guess.

Krysta: I want to be her when I grow up. Yes, I know I am 75.

Sapphira: You are doing this on purpose, aren’t you?


Chloe

Background: Oread, Nymph; Theoi. From Corinth, Greece. She/Her

Chloe is a young-ish Oread who has become a Goth icon with her Blog “Dark Side of the Mountain.” Her Goth following is huge, her clothes are worn all over and a tombstone sculpted her goes for a fortune, even among non-Hellenismos. Like most Oreads, Chloe is an even-tempered sort, though given to at least a show of drama. She makes Goth trends more than most Underworld Gods these days; get her visiting and all the spooky kids will show.

Risk Assessment: Low, Oreads tend to be stable, and tougher than most Nymphs. Worst thing is she will want to see the graveyards and haunted spots. So far as I know, Chloe has no special ability to see or interact with the Dead.

Personal Information: Like most Nymphs, Chloe is Bisexual. She has had flings with several genders but tends to be fairly discreet. Her hardest drugs are Absinthe so far as I can tell, maybe E during sex. Chloe is an omnivore.

Darius: I have interacted with Chloe several times. She is a good kid. Power has not gone to her head yet. Can be a bit of a tease.

Echo: I don’t know Chloe, really, but I follow her and she is quite the fashionista. I know Tristessa does too because I have seen her rocking some of Chloe’s looks. Get her in.

Evelyn: Chloe has Nymphagram followers in several Pantheons. She is a good pick.

Lykos: Yeah you should pick her. Because Reasons.

Sapphira: Chloe is not as legendary as Echo but well respected among Oreads.



Doris

Background: Nereid, Nymph; Theoi. From Samos, Greece. She/Her

Doris got big for her Nymphagram “Mediterranean Blue.” She did a lot of pics on and of cruise ships (Cruise ships often let Nereids ride free as the sea treats them kindly) along with sites across the Mediterranean and she actually has a head on her shoulders. However, last year she and her girlfriend, a Siren named Monica, had a messy and somewhat public break-up, and she has been Nymphagramming from the Caribbean instead since (ironic, if you like Enya. You probably haven’t heard of her.) But she is expanding from just sea stuff with mixed success. This could be good for her career and show she is not a one trick pony.

Risk Assessment: Low. Nereids are the easiest to deal with of water Nymphs. However, she is still stinging from a break-up and may throw herself into something unwise.

Personal Information: Like most Nymphs, Doris is Bisexual. She drinks a lot but in general water Nymphs tend to handle their liquor well. Doris is a Pescatarian.

Darius: Doris is fine. That thing I said about how Chloe has not let her power get to her head? That’s less true of Doris. She is a diva, but not too much of a malaka.

Echo: Point of order, Doris the mother of the original Nereids is not Doris the Nereid, this Doris is named for her grandmother. I don’t know Doris the Nereid at all but she might clash with Lenore.

Evelyn: There are rumors Doris got a taste for Human flesh while with her Siren girlfriend, but this has been done without any real evidence, and my view it was probably just because she had a Siren girlfriend. As Echo said, this Doris is not that Doris.

Lenore: Second point of order, Naiads are not Nereids. To Nereids we are backwater bumpkins at best and all cannibals at worst. To overly simplify Nereids= saltwater, Naiads=freshwater. I don’t tend to get along with Nereids, everyone loves them and they are full of themselves. I have no specific issue with Doris and am okay with her coming. Just don’t expect me to hang out with her. The feeling will probably be mutual.

Lykos: Far be it from me to recommend you set up Lenore and Doris to get in a fistfight but I bet it would be awesome, and it would probably go viral.

Sapphira: From what I know she knows how to party in a generally good way.


Hinako Hinagawa

Background: Rokoro-Kubi, Yōkai; Kami. From Tokyo. She/Her

Hinako’s career took off from her photobombing pictures with her long neck, and she quickly became an endearing part of the blogging scene. These days having her head peek in the window for a picture or vlog will immediately get you views. She likes getting shots of her peeping in windows and such, and sometimes posts pictures where her head is sort of hidden peeking out from behind a chair or window labeled “I am not in this picture.” Also eating desserts, especially with just her head and long neck. She has recurring tiktoks of her using her long neck to steal cupcakes with her mouth. Even I think it is adorable.

Risk Assessment: Hard to say. Not much info about her personally. She is not known for causing too much issue, but she often can’t resist peeking into high windows or over newspapers, which may cause info. Most Rokoro-Kubi have an urge to occasionally startle or scare that is hard to suppress.

Background: Hinako came out as Bisexual on Nymphagram. Her whole dating history so far is human men, and reasonably discreet (her Nymphagram updates are not about her love life). I don’t know of her having any issues with alcohol or drugs, just sweets. She leans Pescatarian but is not a strict one. For example, pretty much any dessert is apparently okay.

Echo: I don’t know Hinako, but she seems to be a cinnamon roll.

Hikaru: From what I know, Hinako is respected in Yōkai circles, and she has absolutely made Rokoro-Kubi more well-loved. While I can’t say much about her personally, I am not worried the sweet demeanor is an act.


Katarína Kovačić

Background: Rusalka; Bogovi. From somewhere in western Silesia. She/Her

Katarina Kovačić (Ko-WAH-chik) is well known as one of the biggest Eastern European Nymphagrammers, known from the far ends of Russia to Czech Republic. Women love her style and sexual adventures, men love her. She has been attached to a lot of Nymphagrammers, models, and celebrities, and loves taking pictures of herself in their bedrooms and on their boats. She is apparently an absolute maneater, possibly literally; Accusations of her devouring some of her less well-known lovers follow her, and she even had one well meaning Scion go after her. If she is eating people she is good at covering her tracks. Let me say this: She has the biggest following of all these people, any two put together probably do not equate her following. You want the word out, get Katarina.

Risk Assessment: High. Katarina may eat people, she is hard to control, she drinks heavily and likes recreational drugs. If she has a hookup with you (or any locals) the internet WILL know, with one major caveat. The only saving grace is she is apparently pretty dangerous so if she walks down a dark alley, she probably won’t need rescuing.

Background: Let me put this delicately; Katarina has implied she is Straight without saying it and has only been pictured with or officially connected to men. It’s an open secret though to anyone who has partied with her in Ibiza or other places that when cameras are not on her beauty and proximity mean far, far more than gender. Beyond that, Katarina has an appetite for everything and possibly everyone.

Darius: I think Tristessa is being a little harsh and sex shamy here. I have met Katarina a few times and we got along fine. She wasn’t a malaka, didn’t hurt anyone, and didn’t vomit on anything. She was eating E like candy. Now, at one point we did have sex on the roof, full disclosure. But she did not ruin my rep or try to kill me. She even wingma’amed for me once. I mean absolutely keep an eye on her. But a lot of this are innuendos. She does flirt with girls even if she does not advertise it.

Echo: Well…if you show her a good time, she will be a very good thing for your spa. I don’t know her, and I don’t like her. If you think you can handle her go for it.

Evangeline: She sounds awesome.

Lenore: Word down the stream is she has devoured men and women, yeah. But word down the stream is I drown people for fun. Does not make it true.

Lykos: I hear she is pretty wild, but while I met her once no issue. Biggest problem is men fighting over her. She really likes men fighting over her.


Keiko

Background: Noppera-bō, Yōkai; Kami. From Shikoku (now Ehime prefecture) in Japan. She/Her but any are fine.

Keiko is a recent case on Nymphagram. She is not as big as the others, but her “Face Time” account is growing, and Echo recommends her. She shows how to make a lot of traditional Japanese clothes and items. She also occasionally posts videos of her scaring people from remote camera or drone.

Risk Assessment: Low. Well, seems low. No sign Keiko is a problem. I don’t have a great deal of info to work with.

Background: Keiko is Straight, well as Straight as any woman is around Imke. She drinks lightly but should not be an issue. Keiko is an omnivore.

Echo: Keiko goes back to the Tokugawa Shogunate. She has worked with my wife before, and I would consider it a personal favor if you raised her profile. Noppera-bō can be useful friends to have, and Keiko is a long-term planner, one a few centuries old. You want her on your side, especially if you have a tangle with the Kami.

Hikaru: I didn’t know she was on Nymphagram, but Keiko is a pro at whatever she sets her mind to.


Tríona McInnes

Background: Banshee, Unseelie Aos Sidhe; Tuatha Dé Dannan. From Scotland in the UK. She/Her

Tríona’s (TREE-nah) Nymphagram, “The Bashful Banshee” is a soft Sapphic Nymphagram with a huge following of Queer women. Her neo-Victorian style also gets her attention from Steampunk types and Neo-Victorian imitators. She manifests as a soft spoken, somewhat Gothy pale woman. She is never in Banshee form in her pictures. She is apparently a real sweetheart.

Risk Assessment: Medium. Tríona’s biggest risk is a Banshee problem. If she senses danger or potential death, she has the urge to shift back to her Banshee form, glide over to the source, and scream. For this reason, she tends to avoid big cities. In the spa she can even be useful, but outside keep an eye on her for if she is spacing. She will try to resist the Call and honestly, she may be able to, but once she is in scream mode she will be hard to manage. Keep her away from hospitals.

Background: Tríona is a Femme Lesbian. She is not given to wild romances, hard drugs or heavy drinking, though she gets giggly on wine. Tríona is an omnivore.

Aoibhe: Note Tríona is not a noble of the Dark Fey, so her bearing will be somewhat different than mine, and she cannot wield mortals’ own nightmares against them like I can. I don’t really know Tríona, but what I know of her is good and I am sure she will be a benefit for you. Remember the Unseelie Court don’t hold particular affiliation to either the Tuatha Dé Dannan nor Tuatha Dé Domnann on a Courtwide basis. I am unsure if Tríona has a particular affiliation.

Darius: I’ve met her, she is darling.

Echo: Tríona is an absolute sweetheart. Don’t let anything happen to her or I will be cross.

--
A few final notes. These are as always just suggestions if I were doing it.

Avril, you will do best as a bodyguard, but you may get along with Chloe and Doris being Nymphs. Artemis is seen as a safe person by us. You might also get along with the more physical Annika.

Imke, you channel the purview of Beauty, and you are going to get attention. A lot good, many will like you and several may have clothes “accidentally” fall off, but some may be jealous and some may be jealous of others giving you attention and get in fights over you. If this happens you need to be the one to break them up even if you are enjoying the attention secretly.

Johnny, I honestly figure everyone is going to like you. Dionysus son, swell guy, you are the one who will make this work. But I think if you follow your instincts this will go well. I will be at your side to advise in an instant if you need it. You have got this; you are going to make this succeed. But don’t get complacent, keep an open ear. And remember it might be worth upsetting someone if they ask for something that will harm the place’s rep. But get Xanthias to say no for you. No need to be bad cop.

Jimmy, like Avril you will be on bodyguard duty. You will probably be chauffer too. Keep an ear to the underworld (little u) and remember we do have a serial slasher out there.

Xanthias, it’s up to you how much you want to be up front. I recommend Johnny take point, but you and Imke have roles to play as well. I recommend you play bad cop if it has to happen. I expect you will do it well. I think some of the girls probably will like a man in charge, if that is your thing, and I am sure you can play guide as well as Imke.

Now, if you do two groups or only bring in five or less you can assign each one a handler. It is up to you if you wish to do that or have Johnny coral all of them as a rule. Either can work, I would ask Johnny what he thinks he is ready for. If you do two groups of 3 or a 3 and 4, either could work.

If it were me, and to be clear it is not, I would put Chloe and Doris together in one group and Hinako and Keiko in the other. That way each one has a countrymen with them. I would separate Annika and Katarina as those two have the most red flags, if you bring them in at all. Tríona could go with either group, I would put her with Chloe those two might bond. But please, you all decide.

Echo says remember Yōkai tend to find each other and the more of them there are the more chaotic and unpredictable they get, even usually well-behaved ones. The only downside of Hinako and Keiko being at the spa at the same time is suddenly three Yōkai together. Do not let Hikaru go out on the town with them just to keep mischievous instincts in check. Vegas is not Yōkai central, but this is a factor that can affect things. We do not want a Hyakki Yakou on the strip like the climax of an 80s movie.

Well, I don’t. Maybe you do.
While the spa should be the focus, look around for good local spots to take them. Aspasia’s Labyrinth seems like a good option, though I have not actually been there yet it has a reputation as an influencer place to be so you may take them a time or two. But Vegas has other options. For example, Chloe might want to see the La Palazza Mansion or Hotel Apache, Doris might want to see Hoover Dam and all that water, Katarina will probably want to see a couple rich expensive casinos.

Finally, all these people, with the exception of Keiko who I have no real information on, have had satisfactory trips that all parties came out feeling positive. Anyone who was an annoying brat not worth the trouble did not make it to your desk. Some are riskier, yes, but everyone (again, except Keiko) has the backing of previous hosts/employers who hired them for events like this.

Lords and Ladies I remain,

Your humble Tristessa

Week #1

Chloe is arriving at 2:00 Friday at the Pyramid of the Luxor (5 min on foot to station house, 20 min drive to the Spa) from the Pyramids in Argolis, Greece. She is staying till early Monday. She wants to spend one night at the Luxor, but otherwise is open (She is willing to stay an extra night to accommodate your schedule).

Tríona and Doris are both arriving at 4:00 on Friday.

Tríona is arriving from the Pyramids at Balmoral. Staying till early Monday. No other requests.

Doris is arriving at the Statue of Liberty at the New York, New York Hotel (20 min on foot to station house, 15 minutes to the Luxor, 20 min drive to the Spa) from the Statue of Liberty at Mytilene in Lesbos, Greece,. Staying till early Monday. No other requests.

The Piranha Club is around a 15 min drive to the spa, 6 minute drive to the station house, or 42 min walk from the station house.

The Temptation Sunday Pool party is at the Luxor, 5 min walk from the Station House.

Week #2

Annika will be arriving at the Luxor from the Pyramid of Stjärneborg in Sweden at noon. She wants to BASE Jump from the Strat, and possibly do “something awesome at that dam”

Week #3

Hinako and Keiko will be arriving at the Paris from the Tokyo Tower at 7:00 pm Thursday, assuming Friday is day one. They want to take a day to get their internal clocks set, and can stay at the hotel if we cannot accommodate them (I am sure we can). Hinako wants to “have fun (smiley peace sign)”

Week #4

Katarina will be arriving at the New York, New York hotel from the Victory Hotel in Pristina, Kosovo at 2:00 pm. She wishes to “play it by ear”

[Purple Snit]

Just a note to say, still reading, still enjoying the notes, and appreciating the creativity in the use of the mythical in the "real" world.

[Baroness Nerak]

Just a note to say, still reading, still enjoying the notes, and appreciating the creativity in the use of the mythical in the "real" world.

Thank you, feedback is appreciated. I plan to have some more journals soon.

[Baroness Nerak]

Story two is taking some time, so I thought I would share when we reached a breakpoint

Session V

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO ONE

Las Vegas, USA

We have started having Influencers show up to entertain.

Chloe, an Oread Goth. It is nice Goths are still around. I remember them from the 80s. Chloe is nice, and the most confidant of the three. Also, there are some sparks. By sparks I mean she ground on me and kissed me on the dance floor.

Doris, a Nereid. Doris is getting over a breakup with her girlfriend, a Siren apparently. Doris had an air of melancholy, but Johnny swooped in to care for her. Johnny continues to impress me with the sort of man he is.

Tríona McInnes, a Banshee and the only one without a mononym. Tríona is warm, caring, and perhaps slightly naive woman. She stayed in a gothic human form most of time. I think all of us really liked her immediately.

Chloe arrived at the Luxor at 2200Z, and Avril and I greeted her. Apparently, she noticed me checking her out. Doris and Tríona both arrived at 0000Z, Doris at the New York, New York hotel and Tríona at the Luxor. Avril and I had the Luxor again. Thankfully, all three get along.

We decided to hit Aspasia’s Labyrinth tonight, which would prove to be a more exciting night than our first visit. Right off the bat, Chloe pulled me on the dance floor and was pretty much hip to hip and lip to lip with me immediately. When not inhaling the sweet scent of an amorous Oread, I am usually pretty perceptive. As it was, however, I realized that an altercation had begun about the time I noticed we were against the wall and still in public.

So what I missed was Avril was taking pictures of the girls...

Shit did she take pictures of me snogging Chloe?

Anyway so what I missed was Avril taking pictures of the girls when she felt an enhancement to her photography. She noticed a frankly rather attractive young woman watching her (big surprise there) and commented to the others. Tríona, sweet cinnamon roll Tríona, went into battle mode and flew over to confront the young women, whose name turned out to be Kayleigh. I missed a lot of it because of getting my bearings and removing black lipstick, but apparently Tríona buttonholed her because she was a Leanhaun Shee, a Fae that enhances artistic skill at a cost of ultimately the artist’s life. Xanthias was quick to point out the artist has to allow this willingly, but I have gotten men to willingly betray everything they hold dear, best friends, even family for a chance at getting me in bed, this before I received Nymph’s Beauty smoothing out imperfections. A convincing woman can make the consensuality in doubt, and Kayleigh was a lip bite away from talking most men and many women into anything.

Eventually Kayleigh fled into the Labyrinth (because of Johnny, it turned out, who was not just showing Doris a good time) Alisa lead Tríona off to calm her down, and I made my way back with Avril, soothing her best I could and wishing for Johnny’s skill with people. Thankfully the poor dear did calm down though I did accidentally call her duckling. Oh well, she took it as intended.

Things cooled down after that. Jimmy returned having talked to Kayleigh and also to a mysterious Fomorian in the Labyrinth. I need to Google those I have heard the word before. Avril calmed down, and Tríona acted like nothing happened. I went back to Chloe, but things had cooled somewhat, and we just chatted, mostly about Goth clubs back in the day, at least in Germany.

I can’t believe I kissed a woman in public. That for so long would be a beating, being fired, being cast out, yet in this place no one cared (though Chloe said a couple men started watching. Yuck.). But none of this seems real. I can just do that, in public, and go back to living my life. People openly talked about Doris and her girlfriend and no one seemed concerned. Amazing. Well that is one realization that sank in tonight.

The other is, as much as I hate to admit it, my forbearers may have been onto something with this whole romancing Nymphs thing. I still smell her hair. I should clear the air with Chloe. We never properly talked about the first part of the night. I will do that now.

EINDE

--

“Are ve going to talk about tonight?” The tall, lanky blonde woman leaned in the doorway.

“If you want.” The Oread sat down in a chair in her room. She was still decked out in full regalia, her face all painted in dark majesty, wearing a corset and skirt made mostly of belts. “Would ruin the mystique though.”

Imke walked in and closed the door, leaning in a shadow. The shadows clung to her like spideweabs, leaving on her pale face and voluminous blonde hair visible. “I did have a good time tonight. I liked your attention. Did I upset you?”

“No. Well. No.” The goth sighed. “When the Fae started making trouble, you got distracted.”

“Avril is a dear friend, she was upset.” Imke’s response was clipped.

“Okay, okay yes that is not what I meant. Of course you did. “Chloe put her hands up defensively. “You are less an ice queen than you look, which is a good thing. Just…at that point with everyone being concerned did not seem appropriate. I like to build the romance. “

“I like that. Trust me. It does not go amiss.” Imke watched her.

“So…try again tomorrow?” The goth offered her hand.

The Theoi took her hand and rather than shaking it kissed it. “Try again tomorrow. Goodnight Fräulein.” She backed out, slipping out the room, never leaving the shadows.

With her gone, Chloe leaned back in her chair, covering her face with a giggle. “Fuck what I have I gotten myself into?”

Choices Matter

Xan’s thoughts were interrupted by the clink of ice against glass on the desk beside his keyboard. The splash of rum pouring followed and as he lifted the glass Alesia settled to half lean half sit on the desk in it’s place.

“I thought we weren’t drinking like we were still in Uni?”

“You’ve been sitting there working on that e-mail for an hour and it’s still empty. I figured you needed a drink and I know how you feel about drinking alone.” She lifted her own glass in a toast and then took a long pull from it.

Xanthias chuckled and lifted his glass in response. As he lowered it he chuckled. “Good of you to save me from such a fate.”

“And speaking of saving people…”

“It is not my place to make her choices for her. Honestly, we hardly know Avril, why are you so worried about her?”

“I’m not the one who’s been staring at a blank screen for an hour.”

“I informed her of exactly what Kayleigh is and what a Leanhaun Shee does… and why.”

“So, there is no other way for her to survive?”

“Not in the World. And beyond it, they grow listless and weak and suffer without nourishment.”

“So, she’s a vampire then. And, just like with them, it feels too good to say no to.” She emptied her glass and refilled them both.

Xan frowned. “Johnny tried to distract her from the difference in the pictures…”

“Xan, those pictures were amazing. I’ve never looked that damn hot. Hell, I want to fuck the me in those pictures.”

“That may be so, but the fact is that those with Leanhuan Shee patrons never live long lives. This will kill her sooner rather than later if she does it.”

“But so does everything else that’s fun.”

“Not everything.” Xan answered as he emptied his glass again. “Sex is actually a decent if brief bit of exercise.”

“Brief means you’re doing it wrong.”

Xan shook his head and sighed. “I have informed her of the risks. I have offered to do what I can to mitigate the harm if she she agrees…”

“When.” Alesia interjected.

“If or when. And… I have made sure she knows that this isn’t simply something Kayleigh does for amusement or fun.”

Alesia swirled the melting ice cube in her glass. “Not a monster by choice.”

Xan glanced up. “That tends to be a human thing. As does treating you terribly for simply existing differently from them.”

“Them Xan? You’re like family…” Much as I might prefer otherwise “But you’re not a gorgon. You’re not a vampire or a giant or something…”

“Gods are not human. I’m better than them.”

Alesia blinked behind her ruby glasses and the room fell into a silence.

“I’m not a god, Xan,” she said softly.

“Alesia… I…”

She shook her head and pushed off from the desk.

“Alesia. Wait. You know I don’t think of you as lesser. I’ve never thought of you like that.”

She took a step back. “No Xan. But you are a god and I’m not. We’re…”

“Family,” he interrupted as he rose from his chair and closed the space between them. He took the bottle and glass from her and set them aside before taking hold of her hands. She didn’t resist, letting him and looking up at him, acutely aware of the firm hold on her hands and just how close he was.

Yes Xan… Now fucking kiss me...

He drew her closer. “Together Forever.”

She shook her head and sighed. “We were just dumb kids when we started that.”

“I meant it then and I mean it now. Together forever.”

“Together forever,” she echoed. Then she leaned in closer, putting his arms around her before letting go of his hands and pressing tightly to cling to him. He pulled her into the sudden hug encircling her with his arms and pulling her in tightly. He felt the soft brush of her snakes against his neck and cheeks as she buried her face into his chest. Just not the way I want us to be together...

--
Kayleigh was a character long since placed in the setting, who just happened to encounter Avril after the Influencers showed up (She took an interest when Avril started taking pictures.)

Not really discussed, but Jimmy encountered a Fomorian Beautiful One named Aoibheann, who wanted to negotiate a place for the Tuatha Dé Domnann at the Spa. She sort of spoke to him in a waking dream, and I sort of played up her creeper aspects. Unfortunately, we don’t get much from Johnny or Jiummy right now. Anyway, was a good scene.

Session VI

Avril unlocked her RV and got inside. She flipped a switch, turning on white Christmas lights that criss-crossed the ceiling. Originally, she bought them because they were cheaper than alternatives. Now, she just liked them. The bulbs burnt out quickly, but she always replaced them with the same kind. Everything she owned was cared for the same way. She knew how to repair her plumbing, engine, laptop, mini stove, and even her professional quality photographic printer. That was the most expensive thing she owned.

Her bed lifted up, with storage beneath. There she kept her printer, photo albums, and carefully ordered journals documenting the behaviour of various monsters. Avril set up the printer to make physical copies of her favourite recent photos. Then she took out the same album she always did, turned to the same page she always did, and looked at the last photograph she took before gaining Artemis’ favour.

It was a good picture: a sky at sunset above the tops of forest trees. It wasn’t her mundane self’s best, but it was good. Next to it, the photo of the Hind. The difference was already visible, just between those two. There wasn’t anything tangible that could be pointed out, no difference in lighting or clarity, but... it was a feeling. Her mundane photographs felt lesser than her godly ones.

As pictures left her printer, Avril confirmed what she knew would be true: pictures influenced by Kayleigh felt different, too. A step beyond her godly photographs, two beyond what she could have achieved without divine help.

Avril put everything away and got behind the wheel. It was late, but she barely needed to sleep anymore. She could leave Vegas and drive for hours before she had to stop.

She let herself live that fantasy for a while, watching the city’s lights turn into specks. Then she turned around and headed back to work.


NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO TWO

Las Vegas, USA

Might as well review how things are going.

Johnny and Jimmy took Doris to Hoover Dam around 1800Z. I presume named for the president not the vacuum company, but then Americans like to privatize everything. Seemed to go well.

Meanwhile Xan kept an eye on Tríona and Chloe while I went to the Bally’s Hotel and Casino (I don’t want to know) to get some chips and let them know free press was coming their way. It went well.

The next place we went was an old empty hospital around 2030Z, mostly for Chloe, but Tríona was also interested. Doris was a good sport. The hospital was actually fairly intact. I don’t have a significant knowledge of Urban Exploring, as they call it, but it seemed safe. Xanthias actually found a ghost, calling herself Sam, an OD victim haunting the hospital. She claimed to want to be the “Scariest Ghost From Coast to Coast.” Sam was kind enough to provide some harmless theatrics, though Tríona actually went full Banshee and terrified the poor ghost. I think Xan is going to be dealing with her remains while we are in the gay club.

Which now that I am typing it sounds really unfair to him.

We got changed and headed to Bally’s, arriving 0200Z. We noticed a couple Scions there, including Rashawn who was there to scope us out, and Milos who may or may not have been there to do so. I myself mostly stuck with Chloe, continuing our flirtations. The longer the day lasted, the more infatuated she seemed to be.

Not that I am immune. My mind wanders even now; no wonder the Gods fixate on Nymphs.

Anyway, Alisa hung out with a Rakshasa, Johnny stuck with Doris, showing her a good time honestly. Jimmy lurked around keeping an eye on things, mostly, but he went to talk to Rashawn a bit. Part of the deal was Chloe filming in the tower built over the burned down tower in Balley’s so she was ready to go.

EINDE

--

“So Em, you looking to pick anyone up at the Piranha club?” Chloe looked over at the woman in a crisp suit walking beside her. Her heels made staccato clicks on the floor.

Imke glanced over, mismatched eyes meeting the Oreads darker ones. “I am here to make sure you all have a good time. So no. I can indulge when I am not the chaperone.”

Did she have more of an accent when talking to Chloe? The Goth thought so. “Well…I don’t think I will be looking either, if you aren’t doing anything after.”

Imke smiled “I am the chaperone, but I am not required to, as they say in English, play the Gooseberry.”

“Em, sweety, I am pretty sure no one says that. But as long as you keep talking, you can say anything you want.”

Tríona chortled at that from a short distance away, and both women glanced over at the Banshee. Tríona produced a fan, covering her mischievous grin, and drifted ahead. With a sly glance at each other, Chloe and Imke decided to save the conversation for later.

--
Sam is a Ghost, but a fairly week on Xanthias because friendly with and wanted to assist, he and Imke being able to see her. He assisted her some with the effects and decided he would move her later.

Jimmy had a long-wanted conversation with Rashawn the Scion of Sobek.

[Baroness Nerak]

Session VII

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO THREE

Las Vegas, USA

Our next stop was the Piranha club arriving 0500Z. I have seen Pride marches on TV, but I have never been in the presence of so many other Queer people in my life. Just wall to wall. Lounges, Dance Floors, Bar…it was amazing. I was there as chaperone, so I stuck with the group. Chloe and I danced a few times; she is an excellent dancer. Got a lot of eyes on us out there. I am not a Goth, but I can follow Chloe’s slow sensual movements.

Outside showing the Oread a good time, I watched the others some. Tríona was staying seated to prevent sensory overload, though when Sapphira arrived she set about seducing the Oread. Doris watched some of the women dancing a bit wistfully and danced herself a little but she seemed to be okay. Alisa was fidgety. I guess she was a bit out of her element.

My dear Avril while scoping things out saw her Kayleigh there, which is either a good or bad sign depending on who you asked. Kayleigh had been happy to see her and flirtatious, and the poor girl was torn and overwhelmed, also. I think. She does not want to be prey. That’s…complicated. Kink wholly aside, a Leanhaun Shee is a predator. They can offer inspiration at the cost of life energy to artist they inspire. I don’t know as much about them as Xanthias but…Avril has the biggest risk among us. But Kayleigh is cute. She is femme. She is obviously attracted to Avril. This could be a very messy romance, but then does our Patheon do any other kind? Our most romantic couple started with an abduction. It’s all downhill from there.

To be fair to Hades though…Persephone is achingly beautiful. Anyway.

Xanthias and Jimmy met with most of the Teōtl, Johnny with the other local outside the club. Xan and Jimmy walked away with a better impression of them than Johnny did. Honestly the poor boy seemed creeped out.

Not…to put too fine a point on it, I took Chloe to my house when we left 0800Z. Do I love her? I don’t know. Probably not. Aoibhe was a wonderful experience, and I hope to see her again, but I have more of a rapport with Chloe. It was one of the most intimate, open connections I have made, among many. Maybe it is just Nymphs. Regardless, I will need to clear my head.

I had thought Avril went to spend the night with Kayleigh but she didn’t. Like I say, she was torn. I feel a responsibility for her. Not that she isn’t hot, but I find myself more the mother with her. Maybe we will both be happier that way. We will see.

Xanthias and I met with Merneith around 1900Z. I was a bit of a tease, because it kept her off guard and because Merneith is pretty cute, you know, for a Mummy. Did not exactly look like Boris Karloff or Lon Chaney Jr.’s versions. She did not really suspect the Teōtl of being the ‘Slasher’ but was weaponizing suspicion to keep a closer eye on them than she would normally be permitted. Makes sense to me, though I wonder if the Netjer have someone with a similar role to me who is less obvious than the Mummy.

This afternoon we will head to the Pool party, then I join Chloe at the Luxor. I hope our parting will not be embarrassingly difficult. At least technology makes things easier.

EINDE

--

“So, what did that mean?” Chloe reluctantly rose from the enormous bed, reaching for a robe.

In the bed Imke, her hair splayed out and her mismatched eyes in full view smiled. “What do you mean dear?”

Chloe pulled the robe on, looking back at Imke, feeling almost paralyzed by the beautiful woman. “I mean…was last night just sex?”

Imke smiled impishly her hair seeming to naturally fall to conceal half of her face as she propped herself up with an elbow. “Come on now fräulein you must have a lot of lovers. You are beautiful and hardly inexperienced. “

“Yeah well. That’s not an answer.” The Oread exhaled in irritation. “You are dissembling, not answering. If you are going to blow me off be direct about it.”

“dis…assembling?” Imke blinked and sat up. “I am not trying to disassemble you. I am…I don’t know.”

“I didn’t…” Chloe grinned despite herself, fighting the urge to laugh.

The incongruous shift flustered the Scion. “I don’t mean to disassemble you. I don’t…I have stayed cut off from my emotions so long. Had to. Opening up is not easy fräulein.” She sighed. “I want to keep seeing you. I don’t know if I am capable of relationships. I hope I am.”

Chloe looked more sympathetic. “Okay, Imke, darling? Last night was wonderful and I am in love. I need to know if I need to start trying to get over you.”

“I…don’t know.” The Belgian frowned, pulling covers around to cover herself. Chloe sat down beside her. “Aoibhe was not difficult. We had a great time, we moved on.”

“I’ll let you figure it out, darling. Just don’t jerk me around.” She puts her hand on the sheet over Imke’s leg. “You aren’t a white picket fence sort of girl. Neither am I. Just don’t treat me like a toy. I am not a toy, even for you. I am a modern woman.” She tried to not look at the disheveled Scion’s eyes. She would be hooked again if she did. Even Imke’s problems with English seemed endearing. Is this why other Nymphs let themselves be dragged into dangerous relationships?

“I won’t jerk you around. I spent a lot of time learning to try to smother my feelings. Unpacking them means fighting my own programming. I am trying. I will promise not to hurt you.” A sly smile and glance at a large chest at the foot of the bed. “Well, unless you want to expand your horizons.”

“Oh that’s nothing new to me.” She kissed her cheek, rose, and walked toward the Alice Blue hued bathroom. “I need a shower. And I am using your toothbrush.” Her voice returned to the affectionate quality it had held.

Imke laid back down, watching the ceiling fan slowly turn. She presumed a Nymph would have the same no strings quality a Fae Noble did. But then, most people she seduced seemed to fixate on her and Aoibhe was an exception. Her blue and green eyes look toward the bathroom as she heard the shower start. She would need to have this sorted by the time Chloe returned.

And she would ask her about why she thought she was disassembling her.

Saturday Night

Stepping out of Johnny's car, Alesia felt the chill night air against her skin and the lingering warmth still trapped in the concrete walkway beneath her feet. She gathered her purse and heels and glanced back at Johnny. Part of her wasn’t sure if opening up to him as much as she had was a good idea but he was just so easy to talk to. And she had needed to talk to someone.

“Thanks for the ride… and for listening.”

Then she made her way inside, smiling a little that the lights of his car did not move until the door shut behind her. It didn’t feel like it had been a mistake to speak so freely even away from his infectious presence and it was too late to second guess her actions at this point anyway.

Setting her purse and heels aside, she sighed as she noticed that the only light was in the study. Shaking her head, she walked in and found Xanthias at his desk.

“Welcome home,” he said without looking up, “How was the Piranha Club?”

“Loud and full of beautiful women. I think everyone had a good evening.”

“Everyone?”

She chuckled and moved up behind his chair, leaning forward and resting her hands on his shoulders. Feeling the tension in them, she began to kneed slowly. “Imke and Chloe were all over each other. Honestly it was nice to see her relax. Tríona set her sights on Sapphira, who seemed entirely okay with it if a bit surprised. Doris wasn’t really looking for or getting found by anyone but she seemed to enjoy the company and we did dance a few times. I think Avril ran into Kayleigh at the bar but they didn’t leave together or anything.” She felt his shoulders tense a bit at that and squeezed harder then glanced at the screen in front of him. “So what are you working on? I thought you’d finished with Hector’s notes.”

Xan murmured appreciatively at her ministrations and let her shift the topic without comment. “On, I read over them and sent out the basics, yes. But I was fully transcribing them and adding my thoughts and observations to send out to everyone.”

Alesia hands continued to work his tense neck and shoulder firmly and he groaned softly. “When’s the last time you ate?”

“I…” he paused to gasp softly as her thumb dug into a knot. “Jimmy and I grabbed a bite after we left Tex Cat’s.”

“That was hours ago Xan.”

“Yes, I guess it was. But I’m nearly finished, just proofreading over it now.”

She straightened and shook her head. “Well, I worked up an appetite with all the dancing so I’m going to go make us both some dinner.”

“Oh, that’s sounds good. I’ll just finish up...”

“And I’m not going to eat until you join me.”

He turned to look at her and frown. “That’s not necessary…”

She cut him off with a raised hand. “I have spoken.” Then she chuckled and turned to walk away.

“I’ll be right in to help,” he called after her as he turned to save his work, “Your mother would never forgive me if I let you starve.”

Colloquy

The Oread called Chloe entered the dimly lit women’s spa following the sound of chatter. Three other women were there already languidly chatting. The similarly pale and darked haired Tríona relaxedin a one-piece swimsuit covering much of her body, outside her limbs, rather than a bikini like Chloe. Opposite her, in the altogether, the blue-green skinned Nereid Doris was chatting away with Tríona. On the far end of the pool, a pale, sallow skinned blonde watched silently with sunken eyes, only the top half of her face above the water. Chloe tilted her head at the Naiad on the far end, but beyond an acknowledgement she simply remained still.

Chloe’s reverie was broken by Tríona. “Well, someone apparently had an assignation last night! How was it?”

Chloe gave a crooked smile, slipping into the warm pool. “Oh, I had a blast. Hope you were not disappointed we spent the night at Em’s.”

Tríona glanced conspiratorially at Doris, then back. “I am sure I don’t know what you mean. I myself was distracted anyway.” She paused significantly. “I tried to get Sapphira to join us down here, but I think she was…a little embarrassed.” The Banshee shifted to look slightly concerned. “I hope you don’t mind checking on her? She is a cousin to you and I want to be sure she is okay.”

“I will, no problem.” The Goth smiled over at the Banshee. Then she looked to Doris. “You having fun dear?”

“This has been nice. Getting away from everything. Everyone is nice. Johnny and I have been hanging out. Avril kept an eye on me last night. Did she meet up with that girl?”

Tríona looked sharply over. “What girl? Who?” Chloe gave Doris a warning look as the Nereid suddenly looked panicked

“Oh some cute thing she was chatting with. No one in particular.” Doris was not very good at lying. ‘Disassembling’ Chloe thought with a smirk.

“Is the Leanhaun Shee still hunting her? She is in danger if so.” Tríona was getting agitated. Chloe sighed. “She is fine. Em is not worried about her. They can manage.”

“Imke is not even a century old! She…” The Banshee paused. All three Nymphs in the water were giving her puzzled looks. Even the cute dead looking one. “Okay. I just know how Dark Fae are. I am Dark Fae after all.”

Chloe smirked. “And you are one of the sweetest people I have met this side of the pond. And I am over a century old thank you, even if not much. Why don’t you talk to her before you go?”

“Maybe I will.” Tríona mulled over this, then changed the subject. “I have managed to get more of my novel written. Perhaps I will finish this year.”

Doris beamed at her. “That’s so cool. You will have to let us know.”

Tríona smiled “Now, it’s a roman à clef, so don’t expect familiar names.” Doris looked to Chloe, puzzled.

“Novel with a key.” the Goth clarified. “A story where the characters are based on real people or events but names and details changed.”

“It won’t be my first.” Tríona clarified. “But first in a while”

There was a short lull in conversation. “So what’s up with Xanthias and that Gorgon? Alisa?” Doris looked at the faces around her. Well, half visible face in Lenore’s case.

Tríona spoke up after a moment. “Xanthias, like many men, cannot see what is right in front of his nose. And Alisa is either a proper lady or too nervous to try. I do wish them well. I think Xanthias loves her. He’s just…” she gestures vaguely. “Listen, I am a lesbian, I am not an expert on men. But I see a lot.”

The half-submerged face’s eyes narrow slightly.

“They aren’t that different Tríona.” Chloe shrugs. “I have dated and slept with both. There are minor differences, like I don’t have to make the first move with men most of the time. Hell, I had to put the moves on Em.”

“Quite a gal you found there. Goodness but her legs go on forever.” Tríona chucked.

Chloe grinned at her “Oh I found where they lead. Lovely place.”

The blonde sank below the surface.

“C’mon sorry Lenore come back I won’t be detailed.” The big watery eyes peer up from the water, long hair floating on the surface, though she did not rise fully.

“Are you okay?” Tríona regarded her too. Lenore nodded in the affirmative, and the Banshee turned her attention to the others.

“I have only had one serious girlfriend,” the Nereid spoke up “but I have been involved with both. Gonna agree with Chloe here though. I mean Johnny seems sensitive and caring. Jimmy too. Guys aren’t bad. I mean between them Monica was more aloof.”

Tríona only smiled knowingly at them. After a moment, she turned to Chloe again. “Are you going to spent tonight with Imke too?”

“Yeah. At the Luxor this time. Not just that though also blogging through the night.”

Tríona turned to Doris. “You dear? Going to make a play for Johnny?”

Doris’s eyes widened. “Oh I…no…we will see what happens. I don’t…really…make moves, you know? I’d rather whoever I am with do that.”

“Well, good luck to you both. I suspect I will be writing overnight.” Tríona smiled at them both. “We will have to all come here again.” She glanced at the eyes peering out the water. “Maybe Lenore will even talk!”

The Naiad sunk beneath the surface once again.

--
So yeah Tríona is less innocent than she seems.

Johnny met Aoibheann also, who similarly sort of waking dream appeared. He then met Margarita Rios-Garcia. The elegant Scion of Tlazōltéōtl came off as very charming at first but soon creeped him out a bit with vague talk about death. In the end, they left under good terms, though he really thought she would try to kill him.

Xan and Jimmy went to Tex Cat’s and met a Scion of Quetzalcoatl named Hector who had been studying various supernatural happenings in the area. He also met his counterpart Maria Lopez, a Scion of Ītzpāpālōtl and they mentioned a Yolanda Scion of Mictecacihuatl who the other group saw at the Queer club. While Maria was guarded, the meeting went well.

Session VIII

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO THREE

Las Vegas, USA

We have successfully completed entertaining our first group of Influencers. There was a Gay Pool Party (Way, way too many men. But what else is new?) then some gambling. We then parted ways, with Chloe and I staying in the Luxor and her doing a good bit of streaming from her room. With me in a slinky dress in the background. I’ve been eye candy for worse.

Xanthias made sure she would be doing a tombstone before she left, as once we got the girls on their way, we moved on to other projects…specifically, meeting an Undertaker for a Ritual Xanthias and Jimmy had been researching. Those two handled the meeting with the undertaker, a Dr. Robinson, so he would be ready to collect and prepare Sam’s remains. Meanwhile I put a certain amount of effort to asking where the hell Tristessa had been the past weekend. I wonder if she was avoiding one or more of the girls; she backed bringing all of them. She stonewalled me.

Darius felt the need to tease me for asking for a congealed salad also. How was I supposed to know they fell out of popularity?

That evening at 0230Z we met with the local Fomorians. Aoibheann and “Big Ian” a hideous giant, real name Éimhín but that to our ears sounds about like Aoibheann so he goes by a different name. Despite being one of the most unpleasant looking people I have ever seen, the man was polite and even debonaire. I barely noticed his appearance after a while. He was smart, well dressed, and polite and took point, which surprised me also. Finally, it seemed apparent he and Aoibheann were a long-time couple. Okay.

On the subject, Tríona had mentioned at the pool party that if we wanted to be prepared to move against Aoibheann, she no doubt had at least one Geis on her which could be leveraged against her, and if she had multiple we could put her in zugzwang. Tríona is a cunning one, cinnamon roll or not.

Aoibheann seemed inclined, however, to seem harmless and friendly, making sure we knew the Fomorians would love to be welcome at such a place, and others might wind up trying to cause an issue. She did not say Tuatha but she clearly meant Tuatha.

Tuesday evening at 0300Z Chloe returned to make the tombstone, and Xanthias performed his ritual. I summoned a powerful thunderstorm (while holding off the rain till the correct moment) and it seemed a big success. Sam is much more powerful now. Yay?

Sadly, Chloe is getting ready to go. She has a festival to go to. But I got two more nights. She did not have to come Tuesday and leave Thursday but…we both sort of decided to.

I am so fucked, aren’t I?

EINDE

A silver Porsche made its way toward the Luxor hotel from the suburbs, a heavy silence within. After a moment, one of the women inside spoke.

“I am glad you could come back to work on the tombstone. We will have you back in time to get to Dusseldorf fear not.” Imke’s voice was musical as she smiled to the dark-haired woman beside her.

“Yeah, went home Monday, came back Tuesday night. What are we doing?” Chloe glanced over.

“We are enjoying ourselves. Having a good time. Is that a problem dear?”

“Not if we are going to play straight with each other. This is where we can, maybe should, walk away. I don’t want to.” Chloe signed.

Imke is silent, watching road as she drives for over a minute. “So this weekend is the second where we have Influencers, then there will be two more weekends. I have an old friend who owns a villa in Trieste. The Monday after the last Influencers go, why don’t we meet there, overlooking the Adriatic, and spend that next week getting this worked out.” She kept her eyes on the road.

Chloe looked at her in surprise several long moments. “So…that is a let’s keep seeing each other?”

“I am not good at this, Chloe. Take it for what it is. A desire to not walk away from…us”

“Okay. Okay.” She smiled at her. “Thanks Imke. This was nice.”

The Blonde cracks a smile at her, shifting her hair to show her both mismatched eyes. “Thank you. The trip will be also. I will be looking forward to it.”

The car was quiet again as it approached the strip, but now the mood in the car was lighter.

Well, light as a Goth would want.

--

Congealed Salad is nasty.

This session was mainly about empowering Sam. Avril’s player sadly had to miss, the Influencers cleared out early on. I constructed a ritual like this

<<<<
Researching the Ritual would use Intelligence or Cunning + Academics, Occult or Medicine. You need 3 success. The Netjer Library would add 3 (though you would need to pass) if you can access it, but if someone has an appropriate path they can get basic books without that.

The Ritual will use Intelligence or Presence and Occult. Succeeding makes the burial work and satisfies the ghost., as well as, optionally, counting toward the first Stunt. You have options.

1+ Point Stunt: Pour Cthonic Power into her. Currently she is not too potent, with simple moving objects and making the walls bleed, etc, as opposed to moving large objects or being visible/solid temporarily like Sulis and Donum. Successes spent here make her stronger. If she manages to successfully haunt without being driven to the Underworld, this will happen on it’s own. If Someone doing the Ritual has the Death Purview you get a free point of this if the roll succeeds.

3 Point Stunt (2 if you have the Death Purview): Make Sam a Lemure. The only real effect will be if banished to the Underworld she will wind up in Hades not The Veil. Also, if she gets powerful enough, she will have the option of becoming one of the Manes (Minor God/Ancestor Spirits) in the Underworld or Staying a Ghost, not merely being a Shade if she slips away under.

2 Point Complication: If you overcome the Complication, you can untether her. This greatly increases her movement range. Currently she is restricted to the Vegas area after the Ritual happens to the Hospital or around her Body before. You can attempt a Ritual to do this later.

Someone assisting adds successes like usual, A scary tombstone is a +1 Enhancement, Ritual Garb is a +1 Enhancement. She is currently a bit of a Mummy, Appropriate preparations would be +1-+2 success depending (A roll would be made for it) Max as always is +5 though if you can use Scale that is outside that.
>>>

Next session they meet the next Influencer, a Frost Giant. I expect her to take fewer sessions but one never knows.

Also, I may have started a second Scion game focused on a rock band of Queer women played by Queer women and femme aligned enbies. Between these two games, hope to post more updates in the forum. Keep an eye out.

[Baroness Nerak]

This game now has a companion game, like when I ran Rada and Petro back in the day. The Ultra Violets is a game about a Sapphic girl band who are also Scions themselves. Check it out. Update here soon.

[Baroness Nerak]

Okay, Pictures showed up for me not anyone else. Fixed. I will try to sprinkle a few more in, but any pic requests let me know.

[Baroness Nerak]

Still on the same arc, but it was a stopping point for catching you up

Session IX

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO FIFE

Las Vegas, USA

Annika arrived at 2100Z at the Luxor. She has actually been a really fun guest. Not as belligerent as I feared. Jimmy took to her immediately; apparently muscle girls are his thing. It damn near killed him.

Before that, though, we hit the casino at the Strat. While that was a low key no emergency time, Johnny spotted two of the three women who tried to sell him cocaine before. Xanthias was quick to go in and talk to them, and found that the women, both Leyaks, were trying to sell the cocaine after killing a drug dealer in Thailand(?) and has run afoul a Frost Giant gangster named Thurston Flamebane.

Americans and their gangster obsessions.

The two went to their room because the Raksashi apparently needed healing. Xanthias being Xan, offered to take them in and wants to meet with Mr. Flamebane. That will be interesting. So we have two Layaks and a Rakshasi in the Spa who speak a language I don’t. to each other So that’s fun.

Jimmy, Avril, and Annika started assembled with us at 1530Z at the Strat to start a freeclimbing race. It was fairly entertaining. Avril did not get very far, but Annika and Jimmy were moving fast. Despite being behind, Jimmy managed to pass Annika and barely come in ahead of her. Annika was a good sport.

Next was BASE jumping off the Strat. I prefer to be the one pitching others off high places, so watched from below. Rashawn was there, calmly watching the events. Avril decided, wisely, to play it safe and deploy her chute at a reasonable height. Annika and Jimmy wanted to push it, and Jimmy wound up hurt, though not an omelet as he put it when he hit the ground.

Xanthias patched him up and Annika generally seemed pleased. That evening, we had dinner together at the New York, New York, where Annika spoke briefly about her experiences with Tríona and Katarina. Both positive, but she had some warnings about Katarina as a wild child. We discussed our future as gods, and I think I made Jimmy almost choke with some of my lesbian humor. Annika seemed amused.

Tomorrow, she jumps off Hoover Dam. Not the first body thrown off a dam in my time but hopefully the first one alive the entire time.

EINDE

--

Imke settled into her large, comfortable bed, ceiling fan slowly rotating. Pulling up her laptop, she brushed her hair from her face and started a call, a familiar Nymph appearing on her screen.

“Hi Em. Everything okay with the new girl, the Giant?”

Imke smiled. “Hello sweetling. Everything has gone well. Jimmy may get himself killed trying to impress her.”

A musical laugh from the laptop. “Hope not, Jimmy seemed pretty nice. So, the Tristessa Lampad, she appear again after I left?”

Imke nodded. “Yeah, sending you a few pictures, let me know if she rings any bells.”

Chloe squinted on the other side of the screen. “She is one of the really old ones, like old-old. Older than the gods. Daughter of some Cthonic being down there. I don’t know her face, but the void of Chaos is in her eyes even on a picture.”

Imke sighed. “I continue to think she is spying on us.”

“Em,” Chloe started. “She is a servant of your mom and Xan’s mom. I suspect she is a shepherd not a wolf. I mean, don’t ignore your instincts. I think she is watching you. But in this case, I think it is benign. Ask you mom. Or Persephone she may be sweet on you.”

“You are right, of course, sweetling. I just worry.”

“Course you do. But we did not get on camera to talk about Tristessa.”

Imke gave a sly smile as she sat up in her bed. “No, I suppose we did not”

--

Avril isn’t used to stability, either in location or social group. As a child she had friends -- mainly other foster kids who she was briefly living with. The problem was that as soon as she made any real connections, she was moved to a different foster home.

Her first girlfriend was one of her ninth grade classmates. Her first boyfriend was one of her eleventh grade classmates. Both were at different schools, in different cities. Both ended when she was sent elsewhere.

Being sent from place to place wasn’t unusual for any foster kid, but Avril experienced it more than most. It was by her own actions that she was sent from several homes. It wouldn’t be fair to have categorized her as a problem child (although many of her foster parents did use those words). It would be more accurate to say that Avril has a very strict sense of right and wrong. It doesn’t align with legality or religious doctrine. She would struggle to even define it aloud. Largely, whether something is right or wrong is defined by whether or not it harms the larger ecosystem.

A schoolyard bully harmed the ecosystem of her class, so Avril beat the shit out of them. One foster parent harmed the ecosystem of their foster home, so Avril beat the shit out of them, too. It wouldn’t matter if the wrongdoer was bigger than her, stronger than her, or held power over her. Avril acted on instinct, and her instinct was to remove the problem. As a child, her goal was to scare the problem into righting itself. It rarely worked. More often than not, SHE was the one removed from the situation.

--

Finally we get to the two Layeks and a Rusalka with $18K of cocaine. I was waiting. Layeks are basically Penanggalans. Basically they were in an 80s heist movie. The Layeks had to hide in a walk in fridge to fly out and feed, guarded by the Raksasha, as they tried to avoid Flamebane’s goons. So that has kicked off.

We had some racing with at Scion of Hermes. Sadly, he did less well at BASE jumping. He did manage to survive at least, and Xanthias healed him.

Session X

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO SIX

Las Vegas, USA

Sunday was a successful day of entertaining Annika. She dove off the dam, which was breathtaking to see, and a bit scary. Jimmy, ah, entertained her the rest of the evening. Tonight, Thursday, the next Influencers arrived at 0100Z. The Yōkai this time. After the rather intense time with the Jötun Annika I hope things are more laid back. The Noppera-bō Keiko seems calm, polite, not unfriendly but not chatty. The Rokoro-Kubi Hinako seems to alternate between extremely shy and very bouncy and cheerful, almost childlike. She has endeared herself to the group well, it seems. Hopefully that continues.

In between those events we dealt with the Jötun Thurston Flamebane. Also, it turns out, his henchman Ivar the Wicked, an Alfar with a taste for dapper suits. Ivar played up his “The Wicked” moniker and stressed that Thurston had lost face because the trio tried to not give him his due. I have no idea. Chaem Choi, the Rakashi, may very well have been dodging inconvenient facts. Mr. The Wicked played up these behaviors being common to Raksasha. Then again, he would.

We met Thurston himself at the Bellagio on Wednesday night at 0200Z with Mr. The Wicked present. Possibly because he knew he was facing five children of Greek gods; he was remarkably civil. He offered the chance to regain dignitas by having the trio steal something off an aeroplane. It all sounded very strange. Then he would purchase the $18K in cocaine for $16.5K to account for “expenses”

We also, we think, got a face for the Slasher. Apparently, Thurston’s Jötun goons found her, but when she found herself unable to overpower them, she burst the blood vessels in their eyes. Disturbing. Also, we were pretty sure she was the person the Scion Milos Grozny was toying with and/or beating down in the hospital. Being a Slasher did not seem to help. Maybe Milos is just that scary.

Regardless, with that hopefully over soon, perhaps we can focus on the remaining influencers. The Yōkai should be fun. We just need to remember Tristessa’s warning that they get wilder and more chaotic the more of them that are in one place, and they tend to find each other. Wunderbar.

EINDE

---
Imke rose, perhaps a bit slowly, from the bar. She had not drunk that many shots of Bourbon in a while, and it rather tested her endurance, especially with the Codeine added in. Hinako had been wild and a little loud. Darius had not hesitated to give the Belgian what she asked for, but the later ones definitely had less Codeine, probably none. Still, she was slightly wobbly. Johnny lingered by the door, a look of concern on his face.

“Hey, you alright?”

The Belgian gave a sheepish smile. “Yes. Got up to fast. You and Darius have good Bourbon.

“I've got something that'll go down smoother than codeine, and better for your head. If you're interested.”

“I know. Codeine and Bourbon and I are old friends. But I will bear that in mind. Thank you, Johnny.” Her smile was sweet and genuine, even if the product of much practice.

Johnny stood back but watched her, relaxing only when she seemed to find her feet. Being on heels probably did not help. “Still winning the fight against cigarettes?”

“Yes. I admit I still have some trouble figuring out what to do with my hands. But I think our pencils are a little safer. Thank you, by the way. Mother’s reversing my age seemed to cure my emphysema and urge to smoke, but I still had a…need.”

“Yeah, addiction can be a wicked thing. I hope this keeps doing the job. If you need any help, let me know. I want to help.”

“You are.” She smiled again. She smiles a lot more than a few weeks ago. “I appreciate your kindness. I will remember.”

“Hey, we look out for each other. You're family.”

“Thank you. You are too.” She hugged him. “I am glad you are here. I am heading home, but you be good to yourself Johnny.”

He held the hug as long as she let him but let her go easily. She patted his shoulder and walked away, her heels making the familiar sound of her disappearing down the hall. He watched her disappear around a corner before pushing up off the wall. Reaching into his pocket he deftly opened a small, wrapped candy and popped it into his mouth, sucking on it as he made his way to bed.

--

Imke has often toyed with a pen or pencil, holding it like a cigarette. She was cured of physical but not mental addiction when she became younger. Johnny stepped up to do so with a Passion Marvel.

So this was a tale of two Frost Giants, but the group managed to please Annika. Now for the Yōkai.

Session XI

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO SEVEN

Las Vegas, USA

The Yōkai have arrived. Keiko the Noppera-bō is a consummate professional and has had a face the whole time as far as I can tell. And she manages to not be too uptight; I found her pretty likeable honestly. She quickly set about being everyone’s stand in mom. Maybe we should try to hire her.

The other, Hinako Hinagawa, is a Rokoro-Kubi and absolutely adorable. She has taken a lot of pictures and “TikToks” stealing cupcakes and having her head pop up at odd times on her long, long neck. I am not generally one to be taken in by such but she just seems so guileless I really think she is. She sort of became like our…child? We all want to protect her it seems.

The opposite, apparently, can be said of Kuro, a Jorōgumo that Keiko recommended for dealing with the brothel part of the spa. She is apparently sex on legs. She flirted with everyone, Tristessa included, even throwing the Lampad off her game. Meeting her will be interesting. This happened while I was doing some investigation of the Teōtl situation. Ahem.

Oh, apparently Keiko wants me to not seduce Hinako. Was not part of my plan.

Now the first night with the Yōkai they went to Aspasia’s Labyrinth. Avril met up with Kayleigh, which apparently went very well. A “quick kiss” but I bet it was sweet. I saw Johnny and Jimmy dance with Hinako, Xanthias went to talk to the “Monster Defense Party” Raksashi that shows up time to time.

I noticed Yolanda, one of the Teōtl we saw at the Piranha club. We wanted to make connections with them and Lonnie is, to be frank, pretty hot. So I took her to a room in the Labyrinth and we got familiar for awhile. I found out she was a Scion of Mictecacihuatl, or as I will be calling her Santa Muerte. She also mentioned being Transgender, which is new for me but she seemed to be Sapphic first and was woman enough for me.

Anyway, that out of the way we went back to her place. Had a good time. She was out in Hendersonville. Found out she was also interested in Margherita, more specifically her plans. She did not know what she was doing specifically, but she can let us know when a party/ritual takes place.

Back at the Spa, Hinako is making more “Tiktoks” and tonight is karaoke. Looks like I have song research to do. And email Chloe for suggestions.

EINDE

__

Imke Scheit checked her phone at the table in the small apartment, leaning back in her chair, looking casual in her Alice Blue robe. Across the table from the blonde a dark haired dark eyed Latina sat, also in a robe. staring in wonder at her companion.

“What…the hell…happened last night?”

Imke put the phone down. “Is sex education that bad in this country?” Her accent had the flatness of a Dutch accent mixed with sharp German. She smiled and regarded Yolanda with her visible blue eye, hair covering her green one, humor in her voice.

“I feel like I was hunted. Were you just out to seduce me?”

“Not my plan, my dear, but when I came in you caught my eye. I had seen you at the Piranha Club and figured you were Queer. We were set on our tasks so I could not introduce myself. So when I saw you at Aspasia’s I…introduced myself in a way you deserved.” She winked and took a sip of her orange juice.

Yolonda leaned back in her chair. “What makes you say I deserved…that.”

“You are like me. Queer. You have been through things I could not imagine. I have seen things…I hope you cannot imagine. But here we are, sharing breakfast. For perhaps not the last time.” Imke watched her, deep blue eye visible. “I feel a kindship with other Lesbians, or…Sapphics or whatever.”

“Including Trans ones then?” Yolonda seems to relax a bit.

“Now that I understand what that is, Jaja.. You are quite woman enough.” Imke leaned on her hand smiling. “Maybe working together in this World, we can change things. For people like you, people like me, and people like us.”

Yolonda nodded slowly and managed a smile. “Maybe we can.”

--

Not much to add here.

Session XII

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO EIGHT

Las Vegas, USA

We have completed our time with Keiko and Hinako.

Hinako remains weapons grade adorable. Last night we did some karaoke, my first with this group, at 0230Z. It was a lot of fun. I made a sexy performance of Drunk Groove for Chloe, and sang a few other songs, including Crazy, It Must Have Been Love, and Tide is High. I sang Islands in the Stream with Johnny and I’ve Had the Time of My Life with Xanthias. Keiko did a lot of 80s and 70s songs, and Hinako did newer songs I was less familiar with. Alisa and Xanthias worked off of each other a lot…they really are joined at the hip.

The following day, I had a word with Kuro, the Jorōgumo. I needed to make it clear my cousin Theoi are not her toys or on her menu. I did not get to complete my message; I was interrupted in this by Jimmy. He meant well; I admit. But he is sheltered. Most of them are sheltered, though Johnny and to a degree Xanthias are aware of this. I never want them to have to view the world as I do. I will protect them, whether they like it or not. Not a bodyguard like Jimmy, but a knife in the dark.

Kuro got the gist, I think. And I did not use fire to intimidate her, something Keiko mentioned she was afraid of after the bombing of Tokyo. I gambled she would know Dutch (she did) and the others would not (I was wrong, Jimmy at least did and meddled. I suspect Xanthias did too)
Xanthias, Johnny and Jimmy all took a moment to talk to me about the events of the day. Hinako seemed to tag along with Jimmy. Her head did anyway. Jimmy brought me cookies, and Hinako put her head nearby for scritches. Scritches is a strange word but Chloe assures me it is real. But there was no big drama. How did I get so lucky with my Theoi family?

Anyway, went gambling at 0210Z. Hinako had a blast, vocally. Merneith came by, and I perhaps laid it on a little too thick, as she almost pleaded for me not to try and seduce her. She was there for Xanthias though, Sam was acting up, and she wanted to be sure Xanthias had a word with her.
Honestly Merneith is crazy attractive. She is ancient. She radiates power and authority. I have to balance having her influenced by me to our advantage and, well, wild sex. I’ll figure it out.
I headed out after that. Johnny and Alisa had something going on but they said they were fine, and Johnny and Xanthias were going to take Keiko and Hinako for one last trip for Hijinx. I had someone to talk to.

EINDE
__

Imke Scheit hurried to her bedroom, having managed to put on some lacey eveningwear before firing up her laptop. A familiar Goth was waiting.

“Hey Em I…ah, wow…you look great Em!”

The Belgian chuckled. “Thank you, Duckling. Came in today. How are you?”

“I am good. Can’t believe how soon our trip is. Got my hands on some MDMA and GHB, and some of the bourbon you asked about. Been reading some about Trieste, should be fun. I have never been.”

Imke nodded, making a mental note to look up the acronyms. “I did some work there. My memories are mixed. We will make good memories. You liked my performance, also?”

“Yeah, how dare you send me that where I could not pounce you!” The Oread laughed. “Oh man you can put on a show. Still a little…little weirded out you are sending that to me of all people.”
“Of course I sent it to you. Just you, for now. I have been reading about polyamory. It seems very…1960s. That is not a problem. You could also have a boyfriend or two then.” Imke leaned on her hand.

“I mean I am Bi Em, but I don’t need one of each. I love you. I mean, I would not complain about a boyfriend, but that’s not why I mentioned it.”

A sigh from the blonde. “No. It’s not what I meant. English is not my best, but it is better than my Greek. I was just mentioning an advantage. I don’t know where things are going to. But I don’t want to leave you behind.”

“I…appreciate that. I just hope it does not get me killed.”

“I will protect you best I can fräulein. I promise you that.”
The Goth laughed nervously. “Why was I foolish enough to get involved with an actual Theoi again?”

Imke shifts to open her negligee slightly. “Well, it’s time for me to remind you.”

--

The Karaoke Party was a lot of fun. Only Imke and Johnny rolled, once each. Imke got like 9 successes. Johnny got a respectable 3. Much fun was had by all.

Then a whole thing with a Kuchisake-onna happened. But Imke was not there for that to resport, so it will wait for next update, which should finish the arc.

I do want to clarify the main job the PCs have is charm based, get the Influencers to have a high Attitude toward the Spa, and get more initial attention. They are not just spinning their wheels. Also making contacts that should come up later. Anyway, Comments and Questions welcome. Look for Ultra Violets update probably next week.

[Baroness Nerak]

Let’s get this arc done. Only the Rusalka Katarina Kovačić was left, and while she was a handful a lot of her interaction was with Johnny. In the meantime, the PCs stumbled over a dangerous NPC in town end of last session, and soon enough too Avril found her love life getting more complicated.

Session 13 is a bit complicated here, with an OOC recap by request by Jimmy’s player who had to miss, Imke’s recap, then a short Imke fiction and finally a short Avril fiction. The OOC recap was written in one short go so sorry if it is odd. Feel free to skip.

Session XIII

Keiko did research and tracked down two people that Chiaki, the Kuchisake-onna they met last time, had a pronounced reaction to. One was leaving in six hours, a man, and a woman was leaving in 3 days. They decided it was murder time on the man, but they would grab him and bring him back. Imke shapeshifted and went to draw the man out dressed as hotel staff. Unfortunately, he was with other businesspeople in a room that also, as it turned out, had a Kitsune keeping an eye on them. Johnny tried to distract her but ended up stripping because he felt hot. Xanthias stepped in and used his power to make those guilty of abuse cower in fear. Avril grabbed our guy, and one other guy who reacted because why not? Unfortunately, we discovered, we found ourselves trapped in the hallway that seemed to wrap back around whenever we moved out of line of sight.

Many attempts were made to evade the illusion, all failed. Eventually, Imke got angry and shot one of our hostages. Not our target, the other guy. She had earlier lost her gun but could teleport it to her hand. at one point Avril almost walked into an elevator shaft. Eventually Imke turned invisible, left a second Imke behind her, and climbed into the ceiling. Out of sight, she made her way through the ceiling, eventually finding her way down a floor to where the Kitsune was. She still invisible put a gun to the back of her head and ordered her to release the party. She did. We took our quarry and left the hotel quickly, Imke letting the Kitsune live and withdrawing only after the group was safely out. We did get a call from Rashawn on the way home asking what the fuck we were up to taking hostages and shooting a man in the hallway, but Xan calmed him down.

We got back and sic’d Chiaki on him who murdered the shit out of him. Turned out she was an entertainer at a party and was killed in a hotel room by some men, primarily our boy. The woman she wanted to kill was also an entertainer who essentially got Chiaki to go up instead of her. Chiaki was speaking now and seemed more aware of her surroundings.

Also in all this Imke had a second conversation with Kuro and made peace.

Fast forward Monday to Friday, Katarína Kovačić, the Silesian Rusalka, arrived, the last influencer. She flirted heavily with Johnny, and was clearly also attracted to, and intimidated by, Imke. Our bartender Darius the Satyr attempted to have a conversation with Alisa and not let Katarina get her riled up by flirting with Xanthias. Alisa denied knowing what he was on about. Darius also talked about Katarina's sexual prowess to Johnny and Alisa maybe more than necessary. That evening we went to Aspasia's Labyrinth, where Avril saw Kayleigh talking to a pale violet eyed fey she introduced as her aunt Niamh. They chatted a bit and Niamh left the pair to talk and slipped away when they were not looking. Imke turned invisible and followed. She found Niamh in a low-lit room for couples to...well not have sex but maybe cross a few other bases. Niamh seemed to be presenting herself in the room, with her eyes glowing. Kayleigh told Avril Niamh was a Succubus, and Imke should not sleep with her. She also said Niamh did not need to feed on humans but liked to; only Leanhaun Shee were bound to. Some texting happened. They decided to relieve Imke, and when Niamh noticed them, she left. Kayleigh and Avril left, and in the conversation after, Niamh realized Avril was a Scion. She told Kayleigh in Irish this, and Kayleigh said in English she knew that, and Avril was (mostly) not prey. Niamh realized Kayleigh was in a relationship with her for realsies and got somewhat flustered about it. They left soon after to talk, with Kayleigh promising to text Avril. She knew Niamh was there for something but not what, and Niamh had just shown up at her door unexpectedly the day before.

Imke danced with Alisa a little, and Katarina danced with Johnny, avoiding Imke. Eventually, the group returned, with Katarina taking Johnny to bed and Imke Enquiring about if Avril needed help re: Kayleigh and Niamh. Avril was not sure. We ended with end of Friday night

--

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO NINER

Las Vegas, USA

Monday proved to be full of surprises, as the team adopted a “Kuchisake-onna” named Chiaki, a very quiet girl with a Glasgow smile and a large pair of bloody scissors. Chiaki stowed away on a plane to pursue her killer to Vagas, and apparently wandered aimlessly speaking no English till she stumbled across Keiko and Hinako’s scare raid. Because Yōkai are drawn to each other, as we are reminded regularly, they happened to be on the same street.

Of course, Xanthias’s big Monster Rancher game now added her in, and Keiko helped us find where two people are Chiaki had an intense reaction to, a man and a woman. Chiaki is not so good with her words, in addition to not speaking English. The man was leaving in six hours; thus we were soon on our way to the Paris hotel.

On the second floor was a group of Japanese businessmen, milling around likely waiting for taxies or a bus. Our goal was to grab our guy and get out for Chiaki to deal with. However, things quickly proved complicated. Xanthias used his powers to make abusers feel guilt, which affected several people including our boy. I used my talents with Deception to find myself in a hotel uniform, and announced he was needed at the desk. That was when things went sideways.

A Kitsune was among the men, seemingly as a chaperone. Johnny had a sharp eye and moved to talk to her, distracting her long enough for our mark to step out of the room. However, she used her illusion powers to make him think he was hot and strip, and that caused chaos as things with him sometimes do. Avril grabbed our mark and another man but we all found ourselves trapped in seemingly repeating corridors. There was…a lot of attempts to break out. Johnny got lost then found us again. I threatened the people in the room which did nothing (in retrospect because we were somewhere else) but when that did not work Xanthias told me to shoot our other hostage, which I did.

Somewhere in this, we discovered Chiaki was an entertainer who the men killed in a hotel room. The other woman was another entertainer who apparently talked Chiaki into taking her place. In the present, the Kitsune had us in a place where we were helpless, and nearly got Avril to walk into an elevator shaft. That crossed a line.

I turned invisible, leaving a doppelganger behind, and climbed into the plates on the roof. It turned out we were not even on the same floor anymore, being on the (less populated) third floor. I stayed invisible and within the narrow area between the celling and floor. I found my way to the gathering, dropped behind her and put my gun to the back of her head, still invisible. She released the group from the dreamscape they were trapped in, and they saw where they were. They took the mark and left. I coxed her to give her word she would not harm us and withdrew, though I did not become visible till we were outside.

We took the killer back, where I went to the bar rather than watch him get murdered. Afterwards, as Keiko predicted, she was more chatty. She feels a debt to us, so is remaining for now. While they dealt with that, I went and spoke to Kuro, to make peace. I think it went well.

Fast forward to Friday we picked up Katarina Kovačić at the New York New York at 2200Z, having come from Pristina. We were warned she was a figurative and possibly literal maneater, and a real wild child. She was well behaved in her interactions with us. Johnny and I picked her up, and she took to him immediately. She did not speak much to me, but her eyes clung to me quite a bit. I am used to it.

We went to Aspasia’s Labyrinth. Xanthias seemed inclined to direct Katarina toward Tanith, the Anunna Scion that held court in the Labyrinth (at least on Friday nights) but she stayed in the main room dancing with Johnny. Avril made her way to Kayleigh who was there as she often is, with a violet eyed woman named Niamh. Niamh slipped into the labyrinth while Kayleigh was distracted by Avril. I decided I had best follow so I preemptively turned invisible (given my recent Kitsune experience) and went in behind her, texting Avril. Avril texted that Niamh was a Succubus and not to sleep with her. Niamh had found her way to a dark room that I thought at first was the stimuli sensitivity room I had heard about before, but no it was more a lover’s lane. Niamh’s eyes glowed in the dim light. I stayed invisible and made sure to brush anyone who might be headed her way. Soon Kayleigh and Avril came to relieve me.

The rest of the night went well, with Johnny having all Katarina’s attention. Kayleigh and Niamh seemed to be having a disagreement that had Avril on edge, though. I checked in with Avril and she was okay.

I’ll deal with all this drama tomorrow. Hopefully neither Avril nor Johnny will need assistance.

EINDE

--

“We were not finished talking.” The tall blonde woman entered the office where the Jorōgumo was looking over biographies and applications. Kuro looked up.

“Imke. I am not sure what else needs to be said. You made your point.” Kuro looked at her warily. Imke had not threatened her before. Not really. But a great deal was implied and a message was clear: Hands, and anything else, off her band.

Imke took a deep breath. “I have been working for some time in the intelligence service. My job was, in part, to seduce and destroy men and women. I dealt with other people…STASI’s Romeos, for example, with the same job. I know, as you do, that people are weak when it comes to love. There is no better way to destroy them.” She watched her with her visible blue eye a moment.

“You are a shark, like I am. You can get people wrapped around your finger. You are dangerous, a threat to nearly anyone you meet, like I am.” She sighed. “That does not mean you would harm my band. You have come here in good faith, and I threatened you. I apologize. Some habits die hard.”

Kuro relaxed slightly. “Imke. I understand why you feel as you feel to a degree. And I could hardly blame you for being a bit suspicious of a Jorōgumo.” She drummed her fingers on the desk. “I…don’t see the world as you do. For that I am blessed. I don’t expect you to take me up on it, but I would help you. I have spent decades healing physically. I…think you need to heal as well, in your mind.”

“You are correct. I am disinclined to do so. I do, however, appreciate the offer. We can get along, Kuro. There is space enough for both. And I need someone I can rely on with a similar set of skills to myself. But I am here because I want to apologize. I recognized your talents and it triggered old memories. I’m sorry.”

“You are forgiven.” The wily spider nodded. “There are things on my end you understand too, I suspect. Perhaps we can become friends.”

“Perhaps.” Imke offered Kuro a hand, which she shook. “Perhaps…” Kuro added a chuckle. “This could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”

--

Avril pulled into the RV park. Her neighbour, Riku, waved. “You arrived just in time – Hamish was eyeing your spot.”

“I thought he didn’t like kids?” Avril asked.

Riku shook his head. “He doesn’t like anyone. Old grump. That’s why he’s always parking in different places. He can’t make it through a day without getting in a fight. That’s why I need you here! You’re quiet, and don’t complain when Maruka crashes into your car.”

“I almost never crash!” Riku’s daughter protested as she wobbled past on rollerskates.

Her twin, Rin, walked purposefully to Avril. Without a word, he handed her his sketchbook. She stared back at herself, lovingly rendered in pencil crayon: wearing a cape, armed with a golden bow-and-arrow, on her head was an elaborate crown with antlers adorned in jewels.

Avril raised her eyebrows pointedly.

“It’s your new costume,” Rin said.

She continued staring at him.

“I know you usually wear normal clothes. But you have super powers! You need to dress the part.” He pointed to the bow-and-arrow. “You usually use a gun, but wouldn’t this be cooler? And more authentic to your roots.”

“I’m from Flagstaff,” Avril said.

Rin rolled his eyes. “Your Mom is Artemis!”

Avril shrugged. “Adopted as an adult. It’s mostly ceremonial.”

“Really? Then who’s your family?”

Riku scolded him in Japanese. “I’m sorry. He usually minds his manners.” Avril awkwardly excused herself from the conversation.
--

Niamh, the Succubus, is not the same Niamh the Ultra Violets met on Ibiza, who was a Beautiful One Formorian. Wanted to be clear since some characters, like Echo, appear in both games. I asked Avril if she wanted some fae politics in her story, and she was enthusiastic.

Finally, Xanthias was intent on talking to rather than killing Chiaki. By this point, I was not surprised.

--

The end of our story is entertaining Katarina and dealing with Niamh. Two Imke fictions and a journal from her. Enjoy.

Session IV

Elijah Thomas had a feeling his day was about to go downhill. The field director of the FBI in southern Nevada, the fact that the front desk could tell him almost nothing about the woman on her way to see him meant this was someone unusual. When he saw her, he knew he was right.

“Good afternoon, Lioness. I see the good do indeed die young.”

Imke Scheit, the Lioness, smiled at him with the kindness of a raptor. “And yet here we are. I apparently meet a lot of good people in my work.”

“What do you want, Witch?” Elijah sighed. Of course, she was supernatural. He recalled she was beautiful her age, but now she was dazzling; it was hard to stay focused or stay angry. She was always a slippery one too, and now here she was without showing identification.

“There is a slasher in the city. My associates are helping with tracking them down. I was hoping to share information.” Imke shifted to a professional tone. Antagonizing him would do no good.

“We have an agreement to consult Mr. Thompson on Parahuman matters.”

“I am not here to change that.,” Imke watched him with her visible blue eye. “I am here to also collect that information, and construct a relationship, not disrupt anything with Mr. Thompson.”

“You should speak to Mr. Thompson on this matter.”

“I am aware of what Mr. Thompson knows. I want to know what you know.”

“Why?”

Imke sighed with irritation. “Clover, why are you stymieing me? You know what happens to people who upset me.”

“You left us to die, Lioness.” Emotion crept into Elijah’s voice.

‘I have left no one to die. Last time I worked with you I was extracted from Warsaw when a man from Command showed up at my door. Calling you was not an option. I was just told you had also gotten out. I assumed you were extracted.”

“Our cover was blown. We had to escape with the SB and STASI on our heels. STASI! We must have been tracked from Dresden.” Elijah folded his hands. “This is why I shifted to domestic.”

“I was told to get out now and brought to a helicopter. So that tracks. Listen Clover, I don’t know why you were not sent for. Presumably because you were under observation. I’m sorry.”

Elijah looked her over. It was hard to focus. She was bewitching before. Now he knew he would not know if she was lying. He knew she knew. It was an impasse. But no reason to antagonize her. Whatever the hell she was.

He pushed a button on his desk. “Mr. Varley. Prepare an unexpurgated report on the slasher case for Ms. DeWinter.” He released the button and folded his hands. “There you go Lioness. Varley has your report. Best of luck. Don’t leave me out to dry. “

“As I say. I don’t leave anyone to dry. Knowingly at least. Have a good day, Clover.” Imke turned on her heel and left. Elijah tried to not watch her leave.

--

NOTEBOOK: #769 Lima Echo Echo Uniform Whisky India November

ENTRY: BRAVO ZERO

Las Vegas, USA

Our time with Katarina was not too bad. I am not sure how long it will take Johnny to recover, but I am sure he will be fine eventually.

Really our primary distraction was Kayleigh. Her Aunt, Niamh, was minor nobility, we knew that. Apparently, her mother, however, is also noble, at least now, after possibly “Musing” a God, something that is not supposed to be possible. Even remotely, as Demigods are even immune also. However, we don’t know a name or Pantheon so this explanation is suspect. We just know she is suddenly more powerful than most Leanhaun Shee, possibly many Fae nobles. So that is a mystery. However, her sudden rise has shaken the halls of power in the Unseelie Court, which comes back around to her daughter in Vegas. Kayleigh is not in danger, not yet. However, she could be, and Niamh is trying to push her into the camp of “Lord Winter” one of her mother’s suiters. Kayleigh wants nothing to do with any of that. She just wants to stay on Earth and snack on people and create art.

Which brings me to the point of my concern for Avril. I need to have a conversation with her about Kayleigh while Kayleigh is not there. She knows how these things tend to turn out. She is not a child; she is a huntress. Her romantic experience just seems the opposite of mine or Johnny’s. I need to determine how to proceed. I shall not proceed unilaterally. I barely know how Sapphic dating in this era works anyway.

In the meantime, we went to XS, where, as predicted, Niamh showed up. Avril and I went with Kayleigh to confront her. She tried talking to Kayleigh in Irish, but Kayleigh was responding in English. It was something of a standoff till Niamh referenced coming back when Kayleigh was “finished” with Avril, at which point there was a abrupt fight. As much as I hate the word, a catfight given the kicking and hair pulling going on. After a point Niamh kicked Kayleigh’s legs out from under her and backed up. While the argument continued, I cut the gordian knot by putting a doppelganger in front of myself as I turned invisible, then put The Dagger of Moonlight and Bone to the back of Niamh’s head. That put the quietus on the situation, and Niamh agreed to leave.

The next day, Avril and I went to Kayleigh’s apartment to see if Niamh was gone. She was she left a note in Irish menacing Kayleigh slightly and referring to Avril as “her food.” Bitter notes aside, the apartment was a little cluttered but not bad. Lots of sketches. There was a large leatherbound book I wish Avril had been tempted by so I could see what was in it.

We went to the Paris hotel that night, and I had a chat with Rashawn about my conversation with a certain FBI supervisor. I think the chat went smoothly. An increasingly haggard Johnny once again held Katarina’s attention, and she did not cause further issues. Hopefully, that will be our last babysitting job for a while.

But now, headed to Trieste to see Chloe.

EINDE

--

Imke leaned against a post watching the sea. She had not been in Trieste long, and the Adriatic was blue as she remembered. It was not long before she saw her ship came in. Down the gangplank came a vision in leather and fishnet, smiling from under a wide brimmed hat at the woman in black waiting for her.

Imke smiled back. She had looked forward to this week more than anything else in over twenty years. She had had a few trysts since she had regained her youth. Now, she was really going to let go. The Oread approached and they exchanged cheek kisses before she took Imke’s arm. The ocean glittered as they pair happily made their way into the city.
--

Imke’s conversation with Clover was her use of a Path being blue booked. I think most of the rest was straightforward. I think it was clear, but Comments and Questions are always welcomed. Thanks for reading.