First gathering of Rheinhessen I actually attended. Now I’ve heard that back in Europ the mills run a little bit slower than they do back in the Americas. Little did I know just how slow they tend to be running around here. Telegraphed the prince of my presence weeks ago. Yet nobody knew I was coming. Of course it’s all the Gangrel’s fault, ’cause he has no way of behaving himself.Can’t say I care much. Much potential around here. Reputation to be had.

Turns out I’d be running straight into a Tremere invitation. Count goes up to three elders of that blood. Fucking three elders of the blood my blood supposedly despises the most. Me, I’m having as much reason to dislike them as I have to dislike Gangrel. And all the others just don’t really concern me. Also there’s always someone who’s worth paying attention to.

So in I go, finding an elder who doesn’t insist on people bowing and kneeling, which puts my brethreng in a bit of a tight spot. They were totally thrown, not knowing left and right. Never found their footing through the whole night. Stupid enough not to at least listen to all the lectures and things that were presented. Not saying I blame them. Just saying they’re probably a bit unawares of just how much they slapped their hosts in the face in doing so.

Shouldn’t have expected much though. Turns out the three Gangrel present except for myself used to be raised by the Sabbat. Barely know the traditions, let alone be able to sort or quote them and they’re surprised nobody really gives a damn about what they do. To them that’s probably improving the situation.

Basically half the people present kept telling me just how much those guys aren’t what they’re supposed to be and how they’d be put down elsewhere. But some archon came by, waltzing in and telling them they’re now the concern of the locals, who for some reason haven’t seen it fit to have their heads. Fine by me for now. No reason to go for their throats as long as they’re keeping their heads down and follow better lead than that of a guy who can’t think far enough to save his own neck, let alone those of his brothers.

Couple of people I met. I think they got the right picture. Will take me a couple of occasions like that to establish proper business relations. For now they might be seeing nothing but a low-life, waiting for his scraps off the table. Might be best to keep them thinking that way.

There was this one guy who kept mumbling and singing. First introduced himself as part of the Toreador, then thought better of it and admitted to being Malkavian. Think most of the people there either found him annoying or spooking them out. Personally I don’t mind either much. Perceptive fellow though. Not to be taken lightly.

The elder host of the night was very – lax. From what I heard about European elders, especially continental ones, she’s pretty much the opposite. Even offered to establish contact with one of my own elders. A Tremere kindly helping a Gangrel out? Got me thinking hell might freeze over one of those nights.

New Ventrue guy by the name of something Michaelis. Not taking his clan too seriously. Very refreshing in one of the blue bloods. Appears approachable enough. He’ll likely be interested in doing business of all sorts. Probably the more gruesome kind. As long as he’s willing to pay I’m willing to work. As long as there’s no unnecessary boot kissing involved. Hate that.

Also talked a lot to the local sheriff, who seems to have a bit of a thing for Irish fellows. Nosferatu. Though you wouldn’t have guessed it by looking at her. Gave me contacts to another Gangrel around here. Can’t be worse than the four inbreds. So I gave my proper thanks and let her hold on to my tinwhistle for a couple of hours. She appreciates honesty. Don’t we all. Thing is there’s no knowing in when we get it.

There was one ancilla of the Tremere present who was helpful enough as well. Must have been Seneshall around here before. Probably will be again soon if that von Hassel character keeps screwing up the way he does. Blessing to everyone once he bites the dust, at least metaphorically as far as his rank is concerned. Way too arrogant, even for a Ventrue. As for this Oberth type? Good mix between approachable and on top of people. Wonder what he did to be removed from his office…

The other elder ignored me for most of the night but tested my brethren with great glee. Can’t say I blame him. Only felt no need to get myself involved. They need to learn – and fast. Too much time down the river already.

Also there’s a Toreador new in town. Pretty good on recognizing potential, at least that much can be said for her. Had a long talk with one of the inbreeds. Thanks for pointing out the useful one of the lot. Pretty one. Probably with the matching brains. Might be I upset her Primogen though. Ah well.

It’s odd being so close to home and not going back. But that’s not what I’m here for right about now.