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Post by Deleted on Aug 16, 2017 20:20:26 GMT
Jillian was dressed in usual clothing as she stepped into Knockturn Alley this time, plain basic everyday robes and a pointed hat, upon which her goggles rested. She was also wearing the fingerless gloves and silkk scarf she had recieved from her professor. She did not acknowledge any of the other shoppers or street vendors but made her way straight for As Black As Ink a little before sunset.
She slipped into the shop as the twins were organising things, stopping only to tell them "I have a meeting with the owners, but do not rush them when they wake. I am happy to browse." She was not entirely certain that Rose and Nikolaus even rested in or near the shop during the day but that was part of the reason she arrived early. She would get to have a good look at some of the book titles and possibly even find out where the two Tremere reside.
It would not matter to her how long the pair take to get their nights business sorted being being ready to talk with her, she could happily browse the shelves for hours if needed.
@rosebelmont @nikolaus
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Post by Deleted on Aug 17, 2017 18:22:22 GMT
Sofia and Shawn seemed to immediately recognize the young witch. "You're Jillian." One of the twins said. "Rose and Nikolaus will be here soon." The other told her. "Please do look around and then, take a seat." The first one added, pointed at the small table around which Jillian, Rose and Nikolaus had sat during their previous meeting. "Have a drink. Apple juice, was it?" The second asked, pointing at a pitcher filled with amber liquid and the empty glass next to it. They both bowed their heads respectfully in unisson before returning to their tasks. Rose entered the shop from the back door about half an hour after sunset. She was wearing a black outfit made of a simple top and a leather skirt. She gave a small smile to Jillian as soon as she saw her. "Good evening, Jillian. How are you doing tonight? Keeping busy I see?" She noticed the young witch didn't come 'in disguise' this time, and she was happy about it. It showed she remembered their previous conversation. "Nikolaus will be joining us shortly." Rose was carrying an object covered under a cloth. She set it down by the table and took a seat. "I was expecting your visit, you know. I know classes will be starting at Hogwarts very soon."
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Post by Deleted on Aug 17, 2017 23:18:35 GMT
"T-Thank you." The twins had puzzled Jillian. What had the two vampires told them about her, did they recognise her as a fellow Ravenclaw or perhaps they had just been given instructions to keep an eye out for a young witch wearing goggles. Their eagerness to be of assistance and closeness to each other were not things she was used to, but she managed a polite smile before they returned to their work and she went in the direction of the shelves.
Jillian had got as far as making a short mental list of books she might be interested in reading or learning more about when she caught sight of Rose. She had made a point while waiting not to actually try and read any of the books, she knew the place was a store and not a library after all. The last thing she wanted was to cause offence. Even with Rose wearing a relatively simple and plain outfit, she still felt underdressed in comparison. They were just too far apart in both looks and attitude.
Joining the blonde at the table she gave the covered object a curious glance before smiling at the vampire, forcing herself against her habit to meet her eyes. "Your selections are incredible." She said as a way of greeting, before sitting down. "Only a couple of weeks now, yes. Thank you for understanding the delay in my writing to you."
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Post by Deleted on Aug 18, 2017 23:46:22 GMT
Rose smiled a bit as she looked back at the witch. Her expression was calm and there was no harshness to her eyes, unlike there could be when she was using some of her Disciplines, Dominate in particular. The Tremere could have tried to read Jillian's mind, and admittedly right now she was very tempted to do so, but she had more self-control than that. She broke eye contact to take the pitcher filled with apple juice and poured some for her guest.
"Why, thank you. I like to think that they are, yes." She tried not to sound to smug about it, but complimenting Rose about her books was always a good way to start a conversation.
"Of course. I told you to take the time you needed. It is quite an important decision you have to make, after all." She noticed the way Jillian was glancing at the object she'd brought, and smirked inwardly. She knew the young witch well enough to know curiosity was one of her dominant trait. Still she made no move to uncover whatever she had brought. It was too soon for that. "But tell me, while we wait for Nikolaus, have you had other interesting encounters since the last time we met?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 18, 2017 23:59:10 GMT
Jillian was feeling a lot more relaxed about meeting Rose's gaze than previous and smiled before accepting the drink. She could not help but eye it carefully however, Maria's words popping into her mind. Beyond the fact that it was one of her favourite drinks, she had requested apple juice because it was often clearer than tea. Despite that fleeting thought, she took a sip of the drink and nodded her agreement regarding the books. She trusted Rose, no matter what Maria might think.
"I have come to the realisation that I have quite the choice to make, certainly.." she said with a twinge of reluctance to her tone. She thought hard what she could say and settled on, "David and Aisha are well, I saw them recently. Did you hear anything of what happened?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 19, 2017 15:07:54 GMT
The door to the 'Employees Only' area opened, and out stepped Nikolaus, his eyes shifting from one face to the other. What was visible of the corridor behind him before the door closed was dark; it would be extraordinarily difficult to see anything behind him, but if Jillian squinted, she might be able to see that it almost immediately turned a corner. Nikolaus was dressed in a well-tailored, yet simple black, three-piece business suit, leaning on his cane as he made his way over toward Jillian and Rose. "Have you?" he asked flatly, having only caught the tail-end of their conversation.
If David truly was kidnapped, it would have been nice to at least get a confirmation as to whether or not it was true; it wouldn't have been the first time tragedy supposedly struck his band, only for him to be seen to have made a miraculous recovery just days later. Nikolaus finally joined the two, and sat down next to Rose, leaning his cane against the arm of his chair. He tilted his head, instinctively scanning Jillian's aura.
"We were led to believe that they've had quite the busy last couple of weeks." For people who claimed to trust them, they sure weren't very forthcoming with details. It was almost insulting, after their big show of a gesture of trust. Nikolaus was beginning to wonder if even they knew which side they truly wanted to be on. Because when it came to relations between the Camarilla and the Sabbat, it can't be both, no matter how much they were willing to form a truce, or even cooperate on very specific issues. The world of darkness simply wasn't big enough for the both of them.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 19, 2017 16:37:43 GMT
The sound of the door opening made Jillian look up and she smiled when she saw Nikolaus making her way over. More than ever before her aura was mottled with uncertainty, though she was happy to see both vampires again. Underneath that, as always, is the gleam of her curiousity and no wonder with the cloth covered item Rose had placed within clear sight.
"They have indeed.." she sighed. Whether the two knew what had happened or not, she doubted there was much she could really say. "I assume you saw the press release at least?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 21, 2017 0:08:48 GMT
"Yes. We did. But we're used to always taking whatever we read in the press with a modicum of caution." Which is why she tried to contact Aisha and David herself. "Aisha sent me a message a few days ago but, like Nikolaus said, didn't tell us much. Only that they were sorry for not getting in touch sooner and that the past weeks had been... eventful." She gave Jillian a soft look, and the shadow of a smile. "They're both strong people, so I'm confident they managed with whatever situation they had to face. Still I believe that friends are to reach out for each other in times of need, wouldn't you say so?"
Maybe it was Rose way of telling Jillian that if she were to choose her as mentor, she expected the young witch to contact her and Nikolaus whenever she would need help or get in trouble. Preferably without waiting for the situation to get too desperate.
"Were you present when any of this happened?" The Tremere's expression remained carefully neutral, but her voice was laced with a bit of concern for Jillian.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 21, 2017 0:33:19 GMT
It was clear from Jillian's expression that the words had hit a sensitive spot and that she agreed with Rose entirely. "I was kept out of touch for the most part myself, Aisha is not happy with me at all or at least she was very annoyed that I pestered her about what was going on and didn't congratulate her on the wedding.. I do agree she should have reached out, but I guess I could not have helped much." she slumped in the chair a little, "I never got involved in anything but the one fan in particular mentioned in the conference was me. A cover for my attending the bands tour." she did not sound especially happy, despite the news.
"It is all over now though, they will probably be heading abroad soon. Nothing to worry about now." she forced a smile, nodding.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 21, 2017 20:46:06 GMT
"Now?" Nikolaus repeated incredulously. Interesting choice of words, Jillian. "I did read that someone who managed to provide information leading to his safe return would be given a private concert and a chance to tour with the band. Are we to believe that you know what had happened?"
His eyes narrow.
He and Rose both know that the news articles weren't the whole story. They never were, in the past. Not about David.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 21, 2017 21:42:51 GMT
"Hmm? Yea, it is all sorted out." Jillian nodded again, "I don't know about a private concert, but assuming my parents end up agreeing then I could be joining the bands final tour. Probably not all of it though, school comes first and as I said, I never actually did anything to help really. Worried a lot, asked what went on and then ran away when something actually happened."
Her words would have been normal. The truth, as least as far as she viewed it.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 22, 2017 10:25:46 GMT
Thanks to the vision she'd had, Rose already knew about the fact that Aisha and David got married so it didn't come as a surprise to her. And she could easily imagine why Aisha would have gotten upset about Jillian trying to get involved when she'd been trying to keep her as far as possible from the Sabbat. The Tremere briefly wondered just how worried Jillian had gotten and what she could have done to get answers. Could she have gone to someone else, since Aisha wouldn't tell her? ...Someone like Mary?
"You'd be going on a tour with David's band? Now that's exciting." And for once, Rose's tone was not completely neutral. After magic and books, music was the Regent's third center of interest, after all.
"But you're right, studies should always come first." Knowing Jillian was a Ravenclaw, the Tremere was probably preaching to the choir here. "On what day do your classes start again, by the way?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 22, 2017 20:06:29 GMT
Jillian nodded, smiling widely. "I have never been on a tour or to America, I am excited. I do not know too much about David's bandmates however, I hope they are alright and don't find my being there annoying.." There was obvious worry there. She did not want to cause a rift between David and his friends. She was not even sure if they knew anything about the magical world, which was worrying. "Do you know much about his music?"
"Term starts on the first, will that be a problem? I mean if.. you know what I mean." she babbled a bit, that was a subject she had even more worries about.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 23, 2017 9:24:41 GMT
Rose glanced at Nikolaus, somewhat deflecting the first part of Jillian’s answer. "Nikolaus has lived in the United States for quite a while." She paused, pondering the question about David’s music for a moment. “He has a very nice voice, of course.” That came with being a Son of Discord, as previously explained to Jillian. "The songs I’ve heard from him were quite insightful." His performance at Castle Vampyre and the effects it’d had on her, bringing so many burried emotions to the surface, were still fresh on her mind. "That’s what I thought." She replied, reaching for her cell phone and showing the agenda app on screen. September 1st was highlighted with a note Hogwarts. When the young witch started to worry again about her classes being a problem, the Tremere Regent raised a delicate eyebrow. “Of course not, Jillian. I already told you your classes were never going to be an issue in any way." She had explained that before, and it felt like Jillian didn’t believe her the first time. Still, after a few seconds, her expression softened. "I know it happens sometimes, in French schools at least, that the seniors get to start later than the rest of the students. I just wanted to make sure. I’ll be sure to contact you on September 1st. To wish you good luck on your first day."
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Post by Deleted on Aug 23, 2017 9:54:18 GMT
"I did spend some time in Los Angeles," Nikolaus confirmed, knowing it's almost certainly a stop for them; very few artists went on tour in the United States and didn't make a stop in the City of Angels, if for no other reason than that it was home to Hollywood. "David's bandmates are kindred, non? He would do well to be careful, there. The city is controlled in part by the Camarilla, but mostly by the Anarchs." A term he is unsure Jillian knows, but he continues regardless. "They are separatists from the Camarilla, and lack our politesse. If they find out he is with the Sabbat, they will not hesitate." And if Smiling Jack is still in town... well, he's considered a legend among the Anarchs for a reason. Without him, LaCroix would still be Prince.
He glanced at Rose, easily guessing what she's thinking right then. He remembered that too. Then he continued, even if he knew that the question was not directed at him. "I prefer the classics, myself. But I suppose after hearing his music every time I turn the radio on, it has grown on me, somewhat."
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Post by Deleted on Aug 23, 2017 15:32:46 GMT
Jillian smiled, sipping her juice while listening to their words. She could not remember David mentioning that his bandmates were Kindred but she had thought about the possibility herself, though since David had only been learning of magic through Aisha, it could still be difficult. "I have never heard them perform in person, I don't know if he uses his voice during his performances. His voice is wonderful with and without it though." she smiled, her aura taking a blue tone. "In truth, I had never heard of his music until after I met him."
"I have already been told that if I do go there will be times I will have to obey orders and keep out of the way, so I am sure that wherever the tour goes he will be careful." she had not heard of Anarchs before, but from context and brief explanation she could hazard a guess. "Do you think the two David saved me from were Anarchs, then?"
Looking at Rose she addressed the other subject, "There is only one train to the school, so all years start at the same time. I will appreciate word from you." she smiled. There was no need to mention that her unease was not out of disbelieving about the classes.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 25, 2017 0:17:48 GMT
Rose noticed the way Jillian's expression turned happier and how her heart beat faster whenever she talked about David. But, then again, there was nothing new about that.
When she asked if the kindred who attacked her might have been Anarchs, Rose shook her head 'no'. "I highly doubt it. There's not much room for Anarchs in London, right now." There was barely enough room for both the Camarilla and the Sabbat as it was. "Besides, we were led to believe they were just freshly embraced kindred that had little control over their inner Beast."
The Tremere nodded as Jillian said she'd appreciate her contacting her when she'd be at Hogwarts. Clearly the young witch was feeling uneasy. But it was not because she felt intimidated by the two Tremere, that much was obvious. She was as chatty as usual, and she had even accepted the drink she had been offered.
Rose gave her a few more minutes, in case she wanted to broach the subject herself. But seeing that Jillian was not saying anything more, the Regent decided to take the matter in her own hands. "I've been looking forward to your visit, ever since our last discussion. I was wondering if you'd decided to accept my offer. The fact that you came here tonight seems to indicate that you trust us and that you want us to know we can trust you." By coming back to the bookshop, she'd proven she was true to her word. "Honestly, short of you being scared of us or of you suddenly losing interest in the Kindred who have been the closest to witches and wizards over time," and in so many ways too, "I couldn't think of any single good reason for you to reject it." She smiled a bit, visibly amused by the thought.
"I thought about the last think we talked about and I prepared something for you." She paused, briefly looked down at the mysterious object that was still hiding under its cloth. Then she looked back at Jillian, expectantly. "So have you decided?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 25, 2017 1:36:52 GMT
"Freshly embraced kindred are not part of any sect then.." Jillian theorised, still trying to learn what she could. She hesitated when Rose asked her about her offer. "I do trust you and certainly hope you can trust me.. I realise I have quite a choice to make and not an easy one." she picked her words carefully, remembering her promise. She followed Rose's eyes when she glanced to the covered item, biting her lip. Her curiousity was tearing at her now.
"I have a few questions first.. Assuming that is okay?" it had taken a lot of mental preparation to ask that, but she was determined. "I did read the books you know, they were certainly interesting and not at all what I expected. The author has strange but interesting views on magic, the result at the end is what I expected but the path there was not.. and that leads to my questions."
She paused, gathering herself. "Once you've begun the walk the path, there's no getting off it.. The books common theme, somewhat similar to what you said to me once. I am guessing you would say I have already begun to walk my path, right?" she smiled at that thought, "In that case, the next question is obviously what is the cost?" She then glanced toward the other end of the store, her final question had nothing to do with the book and all to do with past conversations of her own. It was also perhaps the most dangerous. "The twins.. Are they blood bound?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 26, 2017 17:52:30 GMT
"Not necessarily," Nikolaus replied. "One of the first things a freshly embraced Tremere neonate learns is that we are a part of the Camarilla. Our allegiance first and foremost is to the Clan, but the allegiance of the Clan lies, carremont, with the Camarilla." He takes a sip of his own drink, and continues. "An 'Anarch' is not another word for kindred without a sect. It is less a sect, or lack thereof, and more of a movement. Comme des enfants, they are children rebelling against their parents, out of a misguided belief that they understand the world better than us."
He did not respond to Jillian's request to ask questions of them. That had been Rose's expectation from the very beginning, and Nikolaus knew it. But when she commented on the book, Nikolaus' expression softens. "You began the moment you sought us out," he replied. "And I had thought that it was your belief that knowledge is worth any price. Why the sudden hesitation?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 26, 2017 22:18:10 GMT
Jillian listens to the explanation of allegiances and Anarchs, quietly impressed with herself for understanding a conversation which would likely have meant nothing to her at the start of summer. She already knew that the Tremere was one of the Camarilla's founding clans from talking to Maria, so that part was no surprise at all. The fact that there were vampires that apparently refused to join either sect was interesting however.
When Nikolaus mentioned hesitation she gave him a confused look, surprised that he had interpretted things that way. "Knowledge is worth any price, but that does not mean you don't ask if you have the chance. You still do an experiment if it is dangerous, but not taking the time to find out the dangers and take precautions is just foolish." she lookwed to Rose as if assuming she would agree, though whether she would show as much could not be guessed. "I have spent all summer having people tell me how dangerous the path is, after all. I'm asking you far fewer questions than I would anyone else making such an offer." she smiled. That was certainly true, she had asked Maria more questions but had no intention of telling the pair before her that.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 27, 2017 0:30:22 GMT
Rose nodded in agreement. "That's a very good comparison, Jillian. Indeed, you're perfectly entitled to ask such questions. And I have no problem whatsoever answering them. I understand this can be a concern, especially if many people have been warning you about the dangers of being around Kindred." She emphasized the many as if to say she seemed to wonder if there weren't more people than Rose herself was aware of that had warned Jillian.
"The cost, my dear, will be set based on how far down the path you want to go. First, I have to make it clear that you cannot become a ghoul or an Apprentice until you graduate from Hogwarts and are old enough to consent to it, without having to ask for anyone's permission." In other words, she wasn't eighteen yet. "So initially the cost will only be honesty, hard work and secrecy. You will not share the knowledge I give you by publishing it or sharing it with anyone without my express permission. I will also ask from you to take the assignments I'll give you seriously and to give me the assurance that you'll reach out for us first if you ever need assistance." Rose smiled, slightly. "That's not a very high price to pay, now is it?"
She took a sip of her drink before she continued. "When you're legal, you'll be able to choose if you want to become a ghoul, like the twins, or an Apprentice." She didn't go through the details of 'Acolyte' and then 'Apprentice', because the difference was just a matter of time and no one got embraced to remain an acolyte. If Jillian chose to learn with Rose, she'd have plenty of time to explain that, anyway. "One of the differences between the two is that ghouls can still live during the day like kine do, but they don't age and can use kindred's magic, while Apprentices are kindred. Ghouls are blood bound, yes. Because they can only drink the blood of one kindred and have to do so repeatedly to remain what they are. In return, I protect them and teach them how to use their newfound powers. As an Apprentice, you'll be like Nikolaus and me. You'll never be able to turn back to being kine, but you'll be one of us, and you'll be given access to our Haven."
Rose paused. That was a lot to take in.
"Should you decide you'd rather remain a witch, we shall respect that. Some secrets I will not be allowed to share with you because my sect forbids to do so with anyone that doesn't belong to the Tremere. There's still plenty for you to learn, however. And I've been looking for a research partner that I'd be able to trust and whose powers would be of a different nature than mine. I believe it would be a great opportunity for us to compare our 'magic'."
The Tremere Regent was still holding back on using any of her Disciplines right now. Instead she was relying on her natural ability to pay attention to details, even suble ones, and to make logical deductions based on the fact she'd gathered.
"I appreciate you're trying to know exactly what you're getting yourself into. That's what we said you should do the very first time we met. So, go ahead. You can ask me as many more questions as you wish tonight." She paused, her manicured nails playing with the stem of her glass. "You can even ask me about other sects or clans. There might be things you don't know about them either. But before you do, allow me to ask one of my own."
The Tremere had been paying close attention to the words Jillian was using. She'd come to know the young witch well enough by then, and she'd noticed that her body language was very different when she was being passionate and spontaneous and when she was being cautious, trying to impress or trying not to tell something. Jillian never outwardly lied. At least, she'd never lied to them so far. But sometimes, she was trying to hide certain things and it showed. When they'd talked about David, Jillian obviously knew more than what she'd told. But Rose didn't care. She'd rather learn about that particular topic from Aisha and David themselves, anyway.
Today, Jillian was speaking carefully again, choosing her words and looking more focused. It was that ability to switch between spontaneous and serious that Rose liked about the young witch. It made her think she had the potential to grow from the careless girl to a curious but cautious researcher. One she'd enjoy teaching and working with.
The Tremere looked at Jillian, genuine curiosity showing in her hazel eyes. "I told you I've been wondering about the 'decision' you made regarding my offer. But now you say you have to make a 'choice'. When someone uses the word 'choice' that implies they've received several offers. So logically I assume someone else offered to become your Mentor." There were not many options regarding who that person would be. "Am I correct?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 27, 2017 1:02:17 GMT
Jillian sat in silence as Rose spoke. She loved the womans way of speaking and always seemed to learn a lot when she did and this time was no different, in fact she learnt a great deal and was smiling throughout. She was all but grinning at the words research partner. At least until the question, where the smile faltered a little. She nodded. She had known that they would figure that much out and would have been both surprised and disappointed if they had not, but she had been specifically asked to promise not to tell them more than that. That sort of reminded her of her original conversation with the two Tremere in fact. "You are correct, yes." it was clear by her tone that she was not going to say more, but she did feel a little apologetic about it.
"At the moment I am not comfortable at the idea of becoming kindred." she spoke hesitantly, not wanting to cause offence. David's talk of his embrace had made her wary of the subject awhile back and knowing how an embrace happened and learning a little about the concept of a blood bond had led to a conclusion in her mind that had not helped. "The price certainly is not high and the freedom offered seems surprising, unless there will be further instructions or restrictions. I am especially interested in the research, even if the terms mean I will not be able to publish any discoveries."
She glanced at the twins again and then asked, her voice full of naked surprise and disbelief, "They volunteered to be blood bound?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 27, 2017 23:35:47 GMT
Nikolaus' eyes never left Jillian's face as she listened to Rose. The Regent always had a way with words, which was part of what drew him to her from the moment he met her. Jillian's expression said it all, he didn't even need to see her aura to know how she felt. She was thrilled listening to Rose, like he without a doubt would have been if placed in the same situation.
Jillian confirming she'd received another offer didn't come to him as a surprise. And just like Rose, he didn't have to think long to have a clear idea of who could have made it. "The cost really isn't high in regard to the opportunity to learn things few witches and wizards have even dreamed to have existed. And the first among them will be just how little your kind knows about ours." Nikolaus replied, agreeing with what she'd said.
He tilted his head quizzically at her next question. "This surprises you?" He asked. "You just reaffirmed to us that you believe knowledge is priceless. They received more than just knowledge; they received eternal life, something your kind has sacrificed far more than they have to receive." She might not be interested in that for now, but he was certain she could understand the appeal.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 27, 2017 23:55:21 GMT
Her research had clearly hinted that wizards knew embarassingly little about kindred, Jillian had realised that quite early on. Nikolaus was only saying things she already knew, but the way he was saying it drew her attention. She was the daughter of two researchers, she had recieved more than a few detentions at school for experimenting on things others felt she should not have been. It was possible that even Nikolaus did not know exactly how much Jillian felt drawn to those possibilities.
And yet, she could not understand the twins. She spoke low, not wanting to insult the two Ravenclaws even though she knew they would almost certainly disagree with what she had to say. They had volunteered after all and from she understood of the bond, they would only be more certain of their choice following it. "Knowledge is priceless, which means to me that the only unacceptable cost is to forswear other knowledge.. and what is magic but a truly precious form of knowledge and method of learning more?" she shook her head, uncertain if Nikolaus would understand that.
She thought to offer another explanation for her surprise, "I am a witch, I have possibly hundreds of years ahead of me as it is. As for eternal life, are ghouls truly immortal? Are kindred?" she was curious, but her voice showed her doubts there. "My knowledge of wizarding history is not perfect, but there are two wizards once thought immortal who have died in recent history alone. One you most certainly must know and the other is a Nikolas. Nikolas Flamel." she smiled.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 29, 2017 3:27:52 GMT
"I thought so, but I’m very happy to hear you say that, Jillian." Rose said with a small, but genuine smile, in regard to the young witch’s comment about being especially interested in research. If they were to work together, the Regent knew they had the capability to make discoveries that would be unheard of among both Kindred and Wizards.
The blonde could tell that Jillian was being very respectful as she talked to her and Nikolaus. That made the Regent hopeful. You only learn from those you respect, after all. And the young witch clearly was interested by their offer. The Regent could see her weighing the possibilities, gauging what would draw her interest the most.
"Wizards can live way longer than muggles do, indeed. Still they age. Kindred don’t. It’s not just immortality we’re talking about, but eternal youth." Which made Jillian’s reference to Nikolaus Flamel a very apt comparison. "Once one is embraced, time literally stops affecting them. This is one of the reasons why, as explained before, one cannot be embraced before they’re of age. That would be way too cruel." The Tremere picked a small mirror from her pocket. She briefly stared at her own reflection before passing in on to Jillian. "Think about the possibilities for someone who’s truly motivated by the quest of knowledge. They can keep researching without ever fearing their memory failing or the decreased of their mental and physical capabilities getting in the way. Besides, when wizards can live a couple hundred years at most, Kindred have been known to have existences exceeding a thousand years." At this point, it was like comparing a dog’s lifespan to a human’s.
Rose briefly looked down at the mirror again and seemed to be reminded of something. "Every Kindred Clan has its own strengths and weaknesses. Our Clan, the Tremere, is the one known to have the greatest affinity to magic in all its forms. That is because our founder used to be a Wizard himself and chose to become Kindred to pursue greater achievements. All Clans have their own Disciplines they specialize in, like manipulating shadows or transforming their bodies." The Regent eyed Jillian as she said that, wondering if she’d react to any of the Disciplines she’d mentioned. "The Tremere Clan offers the Disciplines that are closer to magic as you know it, both in terms of abilities per se and in terms of variety of forms." She smiled again, softly. "Including Alchemy. But, of course, they’ve been developed over time by generations of Tremere and brought to a whole different level. Clan Tremere has been considered by other Kindred as rather strict because we place our quest of knowledge and research above almost anything else." Though Rose had yet to be told why it was a bad thing. "I guess you could say Tremere are the Ravenclaw among Kindred. And, as you’re already aware of, we tend to keep our knowledge and Disciplines to ourselves and to the ones who’ve proven worthy of our trust." Which clearly meant that Kindred from other clans, let alone other sects, would not be able to teach the young witch any of that. Also 'Alchemy' as known by the Tremere was different in essence from the art developed by Nikolas Flamel, yet the mechanics of the Path were close enough for Tremere to still call it that way. As a tribute, maybe? Nikolas Flamel certainly would have made a great Tremere had the opportunity arisen.
"If you take 'immortality' as in the 'impossibility to die permanently', I guess no one ever is truly immortal. And even if Kindred are technically already dead, there are still ways to end a Kindred’s existence." Means she was not going to elaborate here, for obvious reasons. "Though the older the Kindred, the harder it gets." She decided not to explain the 'generation' part to Jillian just now, she had more than enough food for thoughts with the rest. "As for ghouls," her eyes drifted to the twins again. "While they don’t age either, daylight, and particularly sunlight, does not affect or harm them the way it does Kindred. Because of that, they can learn to manage Disciplines unknown and out of reach from kine while still living among them. The price, as you’ve already guessed, is the blood bond. They need the blood from a Kindred to remain what they are and should the Kindred they’ve been drinking from disappear, they would lose their vampiric powers and their real age would instantly catch up with them. For very old ghouls, this would mean instant death."
The Tremere Regent made a small pause. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d spoken that much. But Jillian had an important decision to make and Rose was determined to inform her as much as she could, short of having her sign a blood contract.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 29, 2017 3:59:55 GMT
The smile drew Jillian in further, for all her eyecatching looks Rose did not seem to truly smile too often. She listened intently to her talk of eternal youth. The idea of never fearing the need for such rare devices such as a pensieve or similar was certainly attractive but at the same time, did it not mean an inability to improve oneself physically. She had never been one to do too much exercise but it still served to back Rose's point about it being cruel to embrace someone before they came of age. Of course, part of Jillian still thought all embraces somewhat cruel as her only true example was Davids. Nikolaus' was simply a special exception, so she felt. "I am surprised those aspiring to become kindred or a ghoul do not train their bodies more before the change," she thought aloud, "Would it not be best to have time stop at the height of your abilities?" it was the most serious thought she had put into being embraced.
She listened to the rest, her expression regularly betraying her thoughts. Surprise and realisation at the fact that the Tremere founder was a wizard, passive acceptance that shadows could be manipulated but intence curiousity at the fact there were apparently vampires who could transform. She smiled as Rose described the Tremere disciplines closeness to magic, though she could not help but wonder why it would not be as prominant and widespead as wizard magic if a kindreds research could go unabated for thousands of years. She had never been one to believe in wizarding supremacy, but understood why it could seem that way to some.
Jillian's smile twitched a little as her theory on kindred not being truly immortal was confirmed. Maria had in fact confirmed the fact herself, perhaps unintentionally, and Jillian already had at least one theory as to how it was possible, although she had no intention at all of every testing it. Rose had just implied that sunlight hurt too, which while not a surprise at all added another theory to her list. More than anything else her eyes went wide at the fate of old ghouls who had lost their source of blood. She could not be more certain that she would never accept such a fate, even if the twins had done so. Trading one magic for another was curious, but Jillian did not fear death. At least not at her age.
"I know you feel I have no reason to mention school as a possible problem, but there is one point not mentioned in that regard." she said once Rose had fallen silent, she was picking her words carefully now. There was no need to mention that Maria had offered her friendship whatever her choice. Nor did she want to outright challenge whether the Tremere would insist she only learn from them. "I have classes with a particular professor who I know you are aware of. I can promise to keep whatever I learn a secret certainly, but it is impossible for me to break ties there."
The decision was approaching now, both sides had made it clear that she had to make it. She only hoped she was asking the right questions and finding out the right information to be able to answer.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 29, 2017 15:07:46 GMT
It was working. Rose had her, hook, line, and sinker, even if the questions kept coming. But at her next question, Nikolaus finally couldn't hold back a light laugh. "Oh, ma petite," he chuckled, quickly regaining his composure. "Amateur, neonate mistake, Madamoiselle Penrose. Never judge a kindred's strength by his or her appearance." True, the Pyramid frowned upon embracing anyone who would be unfit to pass the grueling, arduous tests in the Chantries, including those who are underage by kine standards, but there was technically no rule among the Traditions against it. He once saw a Brujah Anarch in Los Angeles, who looked as if he were embraced at an age even younger than Jillian, lift an SUV over his head without breaking a sweat.
Nikolaus wanted Potence ever since.
He listened to her next question, and turned to Rose. He then turned back to Jillian, nodding. "Nobody ever said you had to drop her class, or anything like that. All we ask is that you keep secrets, something you seem to be quite good at." He leaned forward, just a bit. "You're doing it now. Even before I was embraced, I had a natural talent for reading others. If Miss Belmont and I truly wished to know, we could have probed your mind at any moment using a Discipline called Auspex. We chose not to. Vraiment, your dedication to keeping promises and secrets is admirable. I commend you for that."
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Post by Deleted on Aug 29, 2017 16:02:26 GMT
Jillian blushed slightly at Nikolaus' use of french. She was not sure by his tone if he was chastising her, but the laugh showed that there was perhaps some real friendship there that they could work on. "I.. Sorry, I suppose my theory on physical fitness is not accurate when I consider the flesh is.. sort of dead?" she was still unsure the exact mechanics of vampire physiology but was sure it was a question that would not be answered untill she accepted Rose's mentorship. She smiled a little as she realised her choice of words in her head.
There was again no surprise on Jillian's face when Nikolaus spoke of another Discipline, she had clearly already heard more than a little something about Auspex. "My parents taught me the importance of confidentiality and sticking to ones word. I know I am not too good at lying, but I know how to choose my words carefully," she said, smiling a little proudly at being commended. Her parents talk of work at home had been the reason for their lessons on that and several years of occasionally getting in trouble at Hogwarts had forced her to get careful with what she said. This summer had only honed that particular talent. "I only asked about the classes as I recently heard the phrase 'No man can serve two masters'. She is a rival of yours, is she not?"
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Post by Deleted on Aug 30, 2017 2:06:02 GMT
Instead of answering Jillian's question with words, Rose held out her hand as if to shake hands with the young witch. "Test it for yourself." If Jillian was to take her hand, she would notice that despite being cold to the touch, Rose's skin felt similar to hers. And when Rose's fingers would gently squeeze hers, she would notice that her grip was firm and stronger than would be expected from a young woman of her built. Also it would be obvious to Jillian that she was being careful not to squeeze her hand too tight, in order not to hurt her. "Kindred will always be naturally stronger than Kine, no matter how strong they used to be before being embraced. How fit they were during their mortal life matters very little. Of course, Disciplines exist that can allow Kindred to become even stronger." Upon saying that last part, she briefly glanced at Nikolaus as if she knew exactly what he was thinking right then. She knew how badly he wished he had Potence, and she didn't need Auspex to know that was what he was thinking about right then. She just knew him that well.
"They taught you well and it seems you've taken their lessons at heart," the Tremere said, her expression softening a bit as her mind wandered bringing memories of Rose's own parents back to the suface. Upon hearing Mary's quote, a small smirk curled the Regent's lips. "Interesting choice of words. Personally, I believe you should always have only one master: Yourself. That's why your decisions should always be made based on what serves your best interests. But to answer your question, our sects are rivals and we're the representative of our respective sects in London. So, I guess, yes, that de facto makes us rivals. But we also recently renewed a truce between our sects. So if you decide to accept my offer, she'll have to accept and respect that without trying to come here and fight me over you."
She took a small sip of wyne, her expression serious yet relaxed as she looked back at Jillian. "As your Mentor, I'd never tell you to turn down an opportunity to learn new things on your own as long as it doesn't put you in danger and as long as you don't have to betray the trust we place in you to obtain it. Therefore, I have no problem with you attending Professor Kestrel's classes. Why shouldn't you? It would be counterproductive to prevent you from receiving a knowledge your classmates would get."
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Post by Deleted on Aug 30, 2017 2:28:52 GMT
Trying not to blush Jillian took the offered hand. Surprise shone on her features as she felt the strength in those delicate pretty looking fingers but to her credit she managed not to try and pull away. "You're physically stronger than you look and lack that Discipline granting strength?" she asked, wanting to make sure she had it all right. She thought back to when she had been attacked in the alley, remember how the mans first shove had sent her stumbling and her wand flying.
All thoughts of that memory vanished when Rose implied one should be their own master. It was a surprising revelation and one that seemed somewhat at odds with what Maria had implied about the two Tremere. Rose's promised reassurance she would never prevent her from learning new things was equally as surprising. Why would the vampire who talked of freedom have more set rules than the ones Maria claimed would trap and possibly enslave her, she wondered. "I had not believed she would try and fight you over me," she was truly thrown by that, "Witches with an interest in your kind certainly can't be rare, so I do not see how I am any sort of prize to be fought over. I mean, why me?" The twins, Aisha, Liliana.. she thought to herself. Despite what she had thought during her first meeting with the Tremere, she knew now that there was many others with an interest in vampires. All of them at least as talented as she was, probably far more so.
"I am certainly willing to accept your offer, though I'll admit I regret being forced to make such a choice." There it was, she had said it. No going back now. "A lot of what you say and offer sounds too good to be true, like there is some unsaid catch," she laughed nervously before continuing, "Your mentorship would mean a great deal to me, I would love that very much. However I do have one request.." She squirmed in her seat, if the questions and her remarks just now were not enough she feared this request would annoy the two in front of her. "That I be allowed to talk with the individual who made the other offer about it. Everything else I will keep private, of course."
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