(2307) The show must go on

[Jacque]

A soft grunt of amusement was shared at Alessandra's quip. His eyes shifted over the board as he decided to change the subject, "It is too bad the interest in the chess competition had waned. I had also planned to present the rewards for the categories tonight. I suppose at least that part can wait until the next formal when I know they'll be present. If it pleases your Grace."

3 successes

Date	Action	Roll	Result
2023-07-28 12:55:35	Jacque rolls 7 to play chess (Int + Res) (10 Again)	2, 6, 2, 5, 9, 10, 10, 4, 5	3 successes

[Alessandra]

The Savage nods, “Yes, it is, I know Mister Dominguez had expressed an interest in playing. I was curious to see his skills at the game, but perhaps another time.” Since he decided to not come to Court this evening. A sigh, or, what could be considered a sigh from someone not alive and breathing, “That's fine, since it seems not many decided to grace us with their presence this evening.” Quite disappointing.

6 successes

Date	Action	Roll	Result
2023-07-28 13:34:07	Alessandra rolls 7 to Chess(Int+Resolve) (1s Subtract)	10, 9, 8, 9, 8, 5, 10	6 successes

[Jennifer Hazelton]

Jennifer approached the Alder Prince and Priscus of the Ventrue in a quick but lady - like stride.
"I apologize for interrupting, your Grace. Good evening, Priscus Jack." A moment of appropriate respect to be paid as Jennifer curtseys deeply to the Prince.
Then a deep nod that involves bending her back to the Priscus of Lords and Judex of the Invictus.

Upon straightening, Jennifer brings her hand up slowly against her own body, showing the note in her hand. One did not surprise a leader with an extended hand.

"I have received a message that I believe you should be aware of. Here is a copy of the message that I would like to give you, Your Grace. I shall be stepping out to assist in the matter. "

If Alessandra extends a hand of if Gabriel reaches for the note, Jennifer shall pass over this note:

Note written in Jennifer’s handwriting handed only to Prince Alessandra or her ghoul, Gabriel

Text Message from Reeve Kingsley
Some folks tried to ambush Clarke and Jake two blocks (direction] from the community centre. We got them and see to that they get off the street. Might hail for assistance, just so you know it might be coming.'

[Alessandra]

Out of the corner of her eye she see’s Jenn approaching, and her eyes briefly leave the chess board.

Nodding at the apology, she gives the Haunt her attention, knowing she wouldn’t interrupt the game unless it was important.

An inked hand takes the note and reads it over, frowning, “I see.” Who would make such a move? This close to Elysia?

“Please keep me up to date, and feel free to bring the offenders here, staked if possible, and I’ll make myself available.” She had a feeling they were not going to willingly come.

Looking to Jacque, “My apologies.” A slight nod of her head.

[Jacque]

The Lord watched the Savage consider her move and much to his surprise he figured she would have him in one or two moves- if she saw the opening. Steel eyes scanned the board to see if he could make his own opening but before he could settle on a choice the Seneschal approached.

With the Prince's attention averted, Jacque waited quietly for her to handle whatever urgent matter it was. There was no sport in making a move while his opponent was distracted. A part of him was curious, but he knew it was no longer his place. They would tell him if he needed to be told.

"Please," the Lord politely gestured a dismissal of the apology.

With her attention drawn back to the board, he continued:

5 successes

Date	Action	Roll	Result
2023-07-30 22:58:05	Jacque rolls 7 to play chess (Int + Res) (10 Again)	9, 4, 1, 8, 8, 7, 10, 9	5 successes

There it was. If breath still filled his lungs he would sigh in relief. "Checkmate, your Grace."

[Jennifer Hazelton]

"I shall, Your Grace." Jennifer gave a respectful curtsy and stepped back. A respectful nod of goodbye to Jack. Jennifer glances at the board with some curiousity, yet work called. No, it was the Reeve's work. Curiosity called.

Jennifer moved into the main room to collect her ghoul, then departed Elysium.

[Alessandra]

Did she want to win? It was a toss-up, knowing it would look good for her Clan, but then knowing as a person, it didn’t matter.

But it was fun, and it was challenging, and that was what she was looking for. The challenge, the concentration, needing to stop everything else and just focus. It was welcome and something she wanted more of.

A tiny smirk pulls at the corners of her mouth as she leans back and looks to the Lord, “Well played Priscus, well played.” She almost had him, but he saw a move she didn’t. “I believe this puts you one win over me.” Things were learned and her mind was tested, a good night.

“Perhaps I’ll be able to win the next one.” Smiling this time.

A glance to Jenn as she departed before looking to Jacque again, “Will you be presenting the award to yourself?” a hint of playfulness in her voice.

[Jacque]

"One win and one draw," the playful and pleased nature of the prince was welcome and returned in kind. "I would gladly welcome the challenge."

He followed her eyes to the Seneschal before taking in her remark with a chuckle, "Well..." almost considering it for a moment, "I suppose I will hold on to them until someone earns the right to claim them from me."

Yet the night was drawing long, "Thank you for the wonderful match." He said as he rose, waiting to be dismissed as to not be rude to her Grace, "I do hope we play again soon."