Game 1
Geoff !Tremere BB > Graham Followers Dream > Nick Lasombra Bleed > Sam CEL FOR Anarchs > Paul SER THA stealer

A quick game, with big bleeds from Geoff, large hordes from Graham, bleeds and votes from Nick, Revolts from me, and confusion from Paul - Form of Corruption, Temptation, Restricted Vitae and Khobar Towers.
Geoff managed to get a stable base to work from with the Rack and a number of bounce cards, which put some pressure on Graham, however he could build up his minions and surge forward. Nick tried to defend, and to vote forward, but he nearly choked on a Poison Pill. I struggled, as the Galarics didn’t show up, which slowed the deck, it also didn’t cycle very quickly so I didn’t find the Undue Influences either, however I still managed to put some pressure on Paul. Paul bought out a selection of Followers and !Tremere, but managed to avoid contesting with either Geoff or Graham. The game then slowed a little, as players struggled with their decks, however Graham kept up the pressure and surged through Nick. The pressure kept coming, and Graham kept going forward with the hordes.

Win
Graham 5vps GW, Goeff 0vps, Nick 0vps, Paul 0vps, Sam 0vps

Game 2
Graham Tremere & Gargoyles > Sam Anneke Block > Nick Nosferatu Beats > Geoff Malk Bleed > Paul Toreador Grand Ball

A much slower game, and this time we got some contesting of titles - Geoff had Gilbert Duane Prince of Miami, while Paul bought out Fluerdumal Prince of Miami… Geoff didn’t need the title so gave it up, although perhaps if he knew how much Paul needed it he wouldn’t have. Paul also had to miss out on the Toreador Justicar Title as I already had Anneke in play, so he skipped on to Alexandra. Meanwhile Graham built up with weenies and Ublo Satha, which caused me problems as when I blocked Ublo swooped in, and I hadn’t found any .44 Magnums yet. Nick was free to push forward, while Geoff tried to defend with Saturday Night Specials, Target Vitals and occassional Dragons Breath Rounds. It was not enough and Nick got the Oust, meanwhile Paul had built up and started to Parity Shift blood from Graham - using that Prince title. I tried to counter it, but Michael Luther took time out from his Grand Ball to cancel Annekes votes - he was untapped via Alexandra and then tapped. Graham couldn’t make much of an impression on me, and he finally ran out of Delaying Tactics which gave Paul the oust. I pushed forward against Nick which put a number of his vampires in torpor, but Anneke went down and she was diablerized by Fluerdumal who took the Bowl of Convergence and the .44. This stopped Nick, and with him defending I couldn’t oust him, Paul pushed through me, and then Nick soon after.

Win
Paul 4vps Gw, Nick 1vp, Geoff 0vps, Graham 0vps, Sam 0vps

Current Standings
Paul 9 GWs 3 Draws 33.0 vps 24 Total Games 0.38

Sam 5 GWs 2 Draws 21.5 vps 23 Total Games 0.22

Graham 4 GWs 2 Draws 22.0 vps 19 Total Games 0.21

Steve 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.29

Nick 1 GWs 0 Draws 7.0 vps 11 Total Games 0.09

Geoff 1 GWs 1 Draws 6.5 vps 15 Total Games 0.07

Kieran 1 GWs 3 Draws 5.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.14

Stevan 0 GWs 2 Draws 4.0 vps 14 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 1 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 26 Games (23 GW, 3 Draw)

So Paul extends his lead, while Graham is nipping at my heels. Meanwhile Nick has changed positions with Geoff due to that extra vp he got. Talking of Nick he missed the last train back last night, so had a comfortable(?) night on the sofa at my house, he also suffered an early morning wake up (early for him at least) so I expect he will double check the train times next time.

This Saturday is ECQ in Burton, to which Paul Graham Nick and Kieran are definitely going. Andy was talking about going, but will have to see if he makes an appearance. Graham also has Kierans Blood Shadowed Court boxes (which have arrived) and a ARDB disc, he should also find an Unmasking for Kieran, while Paul has the other cards he needs.

Next week, 21st of May will be a wind down week after all the build up to the ECQ. So it will be a good opportunity to play something different. Can either try Phased Motion format Vtes, using the Jyhad only deck that we have played before, or perhaps another game altogether - Mall of Horror, Lord of the Rings, Condottiere or any of the other games I have at home. I would suggest Battletech, but as BoardGameClub still haven’t worked out my order yet I can’t. However Gammarauders is similar, with players having a BioBorg each - 60 foot mutated creatures such as rats, kangaroos and turtles! I would need to read the rules before if people are keen. I think that there will be five of us again, as I don’t think Stevan will be available.

Sam

Hope to see you all there.

Sam

Game 1
Graham Followers Dream > Geoff !Tremere Bruise/Bleed > Nick Ravnos Illusions > Sam CEL/FOR Anarchs

This was a very quick game, which seems to be quite common at the moment. Anyway Graham surged forward with large numbers of Waters of Duat, while I built up numerous Anarchs. Geoff struggled with the speed, meaning he didn’t really get a chance to find either intercept or bloat before he was overrun. Nick had little pressure, but his Ravnos needed time to build up. He did fire an Edged Illusion back on Graham which certainly slowed him, and if he had followed up with a few more on me or Graham then he would have been in a stronger position. However I could push forward and oust Graham, with Nick following soon after, although he did put a number of my minions in torpor.

Win
Sam 3vps GW, Graham 1vp, Geoff 0vps, Nick 0vps.

Game 2
Sam Cycling Trujah > Nick !Nos Beats > Graham Assamite Bleed > Geoff !Tremere B/B

A slower game, although one that turned very violent. I was back rushed by Nick which sent Nehemiah down. Nehemiah was then eaten by Olugbenga who gained the AK-47 that was lying next to him. This slowed Nick down, although he picked on other minions with Fame, and still rushed Olug, causing him trouble. Geoff sent forward some large bleeds, and with Fame in play there was little I could do to resist. I did lose another minion, this time to aggravated damage, and I was quickly ousted. There was then a frenzy of combat, which ended up with every vampire (there were no allies in play) in torpor. The race was then on to be first to recover, but everyone was looking frail. Geoff pushed through Nick who never got the chance to take that AK-47. Geoff however had gained it earlier, with Uta, but she was still in torpor. It was a two player race, especially as everyone ended up in torpor againg. However Geoff finally got the Blood Dolls, and bought back Malgorzata his key vamp of the game and got the final oust.

Win
Geoff 4vps GW, Graham 0vps, Nick 0vps, Sam 0vps.

Current Standings.

Paul 8 GWs 3 Draws 29.0 vps 22 Total Games 0.36

Sam 5 GWs 2 Draws 21.5 vps 21 Total Games 0.24

Graham 3 GWs 2 Draws 17.0 vps 17 Total Games 0.18

Steve 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.29

Geoff 1 GWs 1 Draws 6.5 vps 13 Total Games 0.08

Nick 1 GWs 0 Draws 6.0 vps 9 Total Games 0.11

Kieran 1 GWs 3 Draws 5.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.14

Stevan 0 GWs 2 Draws 4.0 vps 14 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 1 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 24 Games (21 GW, 3 Draw)

Next week will be at 18 QC Gardens, with only four players available - Sam, Graham, Paul and Nick. So if there are any cancellations then we will have to cancel the night.

The following Saturday is the ECQ in Burton for those that are going. If anyone needs cards or wants some opinions on their decks then post them up and we will see what we can do.

We will have to think about further meets at The Huntsman, as the main reason for starting them was for Andy to be able to come along and play, and of the five meets we have now had there he has managed to get to one of them. The main problem is the higher cost of meeting there - I spent £13.90 on parking, food and drink, which adds up especially compared with meeting at someones house. What do the rest of you think? Is it worth keeping the first Wednesday of the month plan, or not?

However we might want to plan some later in the year, as Richard may want to meet us there as he won’t be coming to work with Graham this summer. Its a big shame, but hopefully we will see Richard at some point during the summer months - perhaps BloodBATH 2008?

Sam

Game 1
Reported by Paul

Paul / Great Beast > Geoff / !Tremere > Kieran / Blood Brothers > Nick / Beast & Buddies

A brutal game with much big fist, POT and Beast-on-Beast action (nasty) from the outset.

Cybele set up quite quickly and began to bleed Geoff steadily for three or five. Beast tussled with some Blood Brothers as he tried to slip into some leathers, and the Blood Brothers came off worse. The Great Beast arrived. Geoff got more heavily bled and both Kieran and Nick began to look aggressively at the Big Beast who was trying to look innocently back at them.

Things then got complicated with so much Harassing, Ambushing and Rushing that I find it is hard to keep track, Followers of Set and Baali go to torpor, get burnt, are reborn, bleed etc. Kieran and Nick beat on each other a bit. Beast loses an arm. Geoff gets bled out by the Great Beast and Cybele (version II or III). Kieran is low on pool but strong on combat. He gets gets bled out, just (his own Tension contributes to his ruin). Nick bleeds and rushes forwards.

Paul is weak, drops down to two pool with another Cybele (III) coming into play, but manages to acquire the Soul Gem, Call another Beast, who bleeds, burn herself, and bleeds with the new version of herself (VI) at stealth, ousting Nick.

Very close with all the POT combat, but a sweep nonetheless. Highlights were the Beast, Leather Face, rushing the Great Beast, failing to get to long range (the G. Beast maneuvered back) and then ending combat.

Good game.

Game 2
Reported by Geoff.

This was a titanic struggle, played against the background of a sleepy West Country pub with every move being carefully analysed by the curious locals.

Paul –> War ghoul deck, Kieran –> Harbingers, Geoff –> Tremere antitribu, Nick –> Venture antitribu,

The game began at a brisk pace, Paul and Kieran racing each other to control the largest number of undead rushers in a quest for table domination. Shambling Hordes vs. War Ghouls, never pretty. Nick tried to curtail Paul’s ever expanding horde with heavy bleeds where possible, and Kieran took every opportunity to block any War Ghouls, or War Ghoul fodder retainers being brought into play. I contented myself with light bleeds on Nick and failed rushes back on Kieran (damn strike to end).

With pressure from two sides it was the War Ghouls that cracked first, hampered by Carlton Van Wyk, Paul was eventually ousted by his own Dragonbound how ironic

With Nick, Kieran and Paul fighting a mostly private battle I had been left free to build up forces and for the first time (ever) the Tremere deck was looking almost effective. Uta Kovacs combined with Rutor’s Hand providing useful bleed & rush double action.

Nick had been left weakened by the back rushing War Ghouls and I looked to press forward, but Kieran provided constant pressure of his own. The turning point came with a heavy 7 point bleed from Nick being deflected on to me, back to Kieran, and then back to me again. Curse my lack of intercept, it got through and I was hamstrung.

Nick held out for a couple more turns before I managed to remove his single remaining pool, but I was in bad shape - low pool, crippled vamps and a hand jammed with rushes and masters.

Kieran pressed on, savage rushes from the Shamblers providing the covering fire to keep my minions heads down whilst his vampires went to work on what little was left of my pool. I had no answers and Kieran stripped my remaining pool to clench a deserved victory.

Win
2 VPs GW Kieran, 1 VP Nick, 1 VP Geoff, 0 VP Paul

Current Standings

Paul 8 GWs 3 Draws 29.0 vps 22 Total Games 0.36
Sam 4 GWs 2 Draws 18.5 vps 19 Total Games 0.21
Graham 3 GWs 2 Draws 16.0 vps 15 Total Games 0.20
Steve 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.29
Nick 1 GWs 0 Draws 6.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.14
Kieran 1 GWs 3 Draws 5.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.14
Stevan 0 GWs 2 Draws 4.0 vps 14 Total Games 0.00
Geoff 0 GWs 1 Draws 2.5 vps 11 Total Games 0.00
Richard 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 1 Total Games 0.00
Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 22 Games (19 GW, 3 Draw)

Next week the plan is to play at The Huntsman, although we will need all available players again, so Paul, Geoff, Nick, Andy and myself. I know that Kieran is unavailable, and I am not sure on Nick or Andy. So it could be another missed week for me.
On the 14th the plan is to play at 18 QC Gardens, which will get Graham back into the fold, and will be practice for the ECQ on 17th. So expect filth!

Sam

Game 1
Geoff !Tremere Bruise/Bleed > Sam New Ventrue > Graham Followers Dream > Paul Recklessly Lost Assamites

A very quick game, with huge amounts of damage being thrown down. Geoff had big bleeds, I had big votes, Graham had lots of little bleeds, and Paul had even bigger votes. However my three Princes mostly stopped Pauls deck, who then tried to fend off the Followers with Dream World and stealth. Graham overran Paul, and then started to pressure Geoff. I had by then managed quite a lot of bloat, and could really surge forward, pushing past the Waters of Duat, and then on to oust Graham and Geoff in quick succession.

Win
Sam 3vps GW, Graham 1vp, Geoff 0vps, Paul 0vps.

Game 2
Graham Followers Dream > Geoff !Tremere Bruise/Bleed > Paul Warghouly > Sam Ahrimanes

A slower game, mostly due to the lack of big bleeds and big votes. Indeed a lot of the early discards were Poison Pill and Delaying Tactics. Grahams hordes put lots of pressure on Geoff, indeed Paul even sent the Warghouls over to slow them down a little but it wasn’t enough. I had slowed Paul a little, but he Direct Interventioned my Entrancement and I had to defend some more. Graham pushed through Geoff, and then overwhelmed Paul, mostly due to massed minions - I had sent two of Pauls vamps to Torpor. It was then down to two, but my reactions ran low, and Faceless Night took its toll preventing Howler from doing her thing.

Win
Graham 4vps GW, Geoff 0vps, Paul 0vps, Sam 0vps

Current Standings
Paul 7 GWs 3 Draws 25.0 vps 20 Total Games 0.35

Sam 4 GWs 2 Draws 18.5 vps 19 Total Games 0.21

Graham 3 GWs 2 Draws 16.0 vps 15 Total Games 0.20

Steve 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.29

Nick 1 GWs 0 Draws 5.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.20

Kieran 0 GWs 3 Draws 3.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.00

Stevan 0 GWs 2 Draws 4.0 vps 14 Total Games 0.00

Geoff 0 GWs 1 Draws 1.5 vps 9 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 1 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 20 Games (17 GW, 3 Draw)

Next week there is a plan to meet at The Huntsman on 30th of April. Quite a few players are unavailable (including me), so you will need everyone to turn up. Potentials are Paul, Geoff, Nick, Kieran and Andy.
The following meet is also planned for The Huntsman, on 7th of May. I will be available, as will everyone above, but Graham, Stevan, Richard and Steve are all away.
After that it will be back to 18 QC Gardens, on 14th of May. This will be the last practice meet for those going to the ECQ in Burton, for which Graham should be available, plus the above players.

17th of May is the ECQ in Burton, so far Graham, Kieran and Paul are going, and I think Nick is interested.

Sam

Game 1
Sam CELFOR Anarchs > Geoff !Tremere Toolbox > Steve Weenie POT > Stevan Assamite Toolbox > Paul Toreador AAA

This game started off very quickly, as Steve got out a couple of weenies and battered everyone within range. Stevan lost his first minion to torpor, which kicked off the Fame which put pressure on all players. Paul bought out Alexandra, while I bought out a couple of small midcaps that went Anarch with Galarics Legacy. Geoff moved forward when he could, but soon had two minions battered into torpor. Steve kept up the pressure on Stevan, who could do little but defend, it was not enough and he was ousted, although Beast had gone down in the struggle. Geoff followed soon after, and it was down to three players. I moved forward with the Anarchs, with Anarch Revolt applying extra pressure, however Steve got an Anarch and thus was saved from the damage. It was not enough, and he went out to Weighted Walking Sticks and multiple Diversions. It was down to two, with Paul having two big mostly unblockable big caps, and me having three smaller Anarchs. I just managed to keep ahead with Undue Influence, and Poison Pill keeping the Reins of Power out of Pauls hand and ousted Paul with a few minutes to spare.

Win
Sam 4vps GW, Steve 1vp, Geoff 0vps, Paul 0vps, Stevan 0vps

Game 2
Steve Nosferatu Vote/Beats > Sam Akunanse Toolbox > Paul Assamite Vote/Bleed > Geoff !Tremere Toolbox > Stevan Followers of Set

A slower paced game, as everyone tried to build up some defences. Stevan was on the end of some bounce chains, but his crypt draw was smaller capacity and thus he managed to get three minions out. Geoff had Malgorzata doing her special, but Paul could push through some Loss and then Reckless Agitation which was supported by Steve with Cock Robin. I had Ugadja, and two other Laibon, but not a lot to move forward with as I had to defend against Steve. Paul pushed through Geoff, and then pressured Stevan. He managed a good run of stealth bleed and ousted Steve, who had left me on three pool. Paul was so concerned that he called Consanguineous Boon on Akunanse giving me a two pool buffer. I managed to build up some more, but Pauls steam roller was up to full speed now, with six Assamites moving forward, and crushing Stevan leaving myself defending until the timeout.

Win
Paul 2.5vps GW, Stevan 1vp, Sam 0.5vps, Stevan 0vps, Steve 0vps

Current Standings.
Paul 7 GWs 3 Draws 25.0 vps 18 Total Games 0.38

Sam 3 GWs 2 Draws 15.5 vps 17 Total Games 0.18

Graham 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 13 Total Games 0.15

Steve 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 7 Total Games 0.29

Nick 1 GWs 0 Draws 5.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.20

Kieran 0 GWs 3 Draws 3.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.00

Stevan 0 GWs 2 Draws 4.0 vps 14 Total Games 0.00

Geoff 0 GWs 1 Draws 1.5 vps 7 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 1 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 18 Games (15 GW, 3 Draw)

So a change of positions for me and Graham, although he will be back next week to try and reverse that. As said, next week we are playing at Grahams for one game only, would imagine that it would be better to arrive a little after seven to give them time to sort themselves out. Steve is now off back to Iraq until June, so good luck to him, while Stevan is busy next week with work and then off for a couple of weeks to the US to meet up with his girlfriend. However Kieran should be around, and hopefully Nick as well so that will give us six players. I will order the Blood Shadowed Court today, so it might arrive by next week. Also can those that have the ARDB cdroms please copy them on to your drives so I can have them back and hand them on to those that haven’t yet had them (Stevan, Geoff and Paul currently have discs).

I haven’t heard from Andy for awhile, so I will have to send him an email and see if we are likely to see him any time soon.

Sam

Game 1

Sam New Ventrue > Geoff Malk Bleed > Stevan FoS Bleed > Nick Lasombra Bleed/Vote > Paul Tempting Succubus.

A rapid start from everyone as they surged forward with the stealth bleed. Unfortunately for Stevan he had no bounce and little intercept and was quickly ousted. Nick also surged forward putting lots of pressure on Paul who was also ousted. Meanwhile I had built up considerable votes, and started to push forward myself. Geoff fell quite quickly, and it became a two player struggle where my additional minions helped swing it my way.

Win
Sam 3vps GW, Geoff 1vp, Nick 1vp, Paul 0vp, Stevan 0vps.

Game 2

Geoff Malk Bleed > Paul Tempting Succubus > Stevan Assamite Toolbox > Nick Lasombra Bleed/Vote > Sam Mexican Sisters

With a quick switch of seating and decks we started off. This time I tried to bring out the usual hordes of Sisters, which worked well in the low intercept environment. What didn’t work so well was the lack of defence, and Nick quickly ousted me. Stevan struggled with conflicting cards, but put up a strong defence. Geoff went forward, while Paul finally pulled out some Succubi to do his dirty work. Stevan was ousted by a wave of Tempted minions, while Nick pushed through Geoff - Nick was again in the final two. Both players pushed on, but the stealth and big bleed of Nicks minions won through.

Win
Nick 4vps GW, Paul 1vp, Geoff 0vps, Sam 0vsp, Stevan 0vps.

Current Standings

Results 2008

Paul 6 GWs 3 Draws 22.5 vps 16 Total Games 0.38

Graham 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 13 Total Games 0.15

Sam 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 15 Total Games 0.13

Steve 2 GWs 2 Draws 10.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.40

Nick 1 GWs 0 Draws 5.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.20

Kieran 0 GWs 3 Draws 3.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.00

Stevan 0 GWs 2 Draws 3.0 vps 12 Total Games 0.00

Geoff 0 GWs 1 Draws 1.5 vps 5 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 1 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 16 Games (13 GW, 3 Draw)

A couple of changes of position, although Paul still has a substantial lead.

Next week (16th April) Steve should be around, so should have around six players as Kieran and Richard are away, and Graham is still tied up. If Andy can get some transport then perhaps he can get off the bottom of the table.

Sam

Geoff Malk Old Skool > Stevan New Ventrue > Paul Reckless Assamites > Steve !Tor Vote > Richard !Brujah Toolbox > Sam Ahrimanes > Kieran Harbingers Toolbox

With seven players there was a slow build up, some of which came from the reduced number of turns. Also there seemed to be a large number of vote decks, or decks with at least some votes in. At various stages of the game we had a Justicar, three Princes, three Priscus, a Bishop and numerous vote modifying cards on the table such as Powerbase:Madrid. Anyway as the game progressed Geoff put quite a lot of pressure on Stevan with Dominate bleeds, although they were occassionally bounced as far as Richard. Stevan bought out three voters, and stabilised with Minion Taps. Paul tried to call some Reckless Agitations, but the majority were voted down, or had the damage spread thinly. Steve also had votes, such as Conservative Agitation, but also needed to negotiate his votes, not least because he shared the Priscus block with Kieran. Richard struggled, stuck with big cap vampires, indeed he only managed to bring on into play, and being on the end of a bounce chain. I pulled out the main Ahrimanes, and slowly applied pressure on Kieran, mostly preventing him from getting his actions out. Kieran cycled his deck and ashheap, and used The Slaughterhouse on Geoff, along with Maabara. As the game came to time there were a few surges, with the final one being a vote from Steve that would have ousted Richard, which saw all of the votes come into play from every source possible and ended up being voted down 16:16 - yes 32 votes on the table!
When time was called everyone was still in, as predicted and as such it has little effect on the League Table, but here are the updated standings.

Draw all players 0.5vps.

Results 2008

Paul 6 GWs 3 Draws 21.5 vps 14 Total Games 0.43

Graham 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 13 Total Games 0.15

Steve 2 GWs 2 Draws 10.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.40

Sam 1 GWs 2 Draws 8.0 vps 13 Total Games 0.08

Kieran 0 GWs 3 Draws 3.0 vps 5 Total Games 0.00

Stevan 0 GWs 2 Draws 3.0 vps 10 Total Games 0.00

Geoff 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 3 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 1 Draws 0.5 vps 1 Total Games 0.00

Nick 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 3 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 14 Games (11 GW, 3 Draw)

However we then realised that we only had 70 minutes until Richard had to leave to get his train, which would not be enough for a second game. So we just continued with the first one, planning to play without a time limit - however time became a factor as we will see.

Richard at this stage was looking vulnerable, so the table tried to keep him in, with him getting the Powerbase:Montreal, and calling a couple of Consanguineous Boons on !Brujah. However Steve kept applying pressure, helped by Jost Werner and his +1 stealth. I also pushed forward, working on the cracks in Kierans defence, the rest of the table also moved forward but more cautiously. Richard was finally ousted, and the next turn Kieran followed. Steve then stabilised for a turn or two, getting Matteus armed with Eternal Vigilance, Bowl of Convergance and finally a Sniper Rifle. Fortunately Paul had stealth, although it was not always enough. Geoff still pushed forward, with Majesties preventing his Sawn Off Shotgun from getting much use. Stevan now had considerable voting power, as he had the Palace of Versailles to give him more votes. However the table was cracking under the pressure and in a couple of swift turns I ousted Geoff and Stevan in succession, and then I pushed through Paul as well. The time was now approaching three and a half hours, and I had said to Paula via phone that I would be home soon half an hour ago. Both Steve and I had four minions, with Steve having lost the Sniper Rifle but gaining the Ivory Bow. He also had the bloating cards, with The Rack and Powerbase Montreal on his side. However his deck was running out, while I still had around 20 cards left. However I couldn’t play on so self ousted, with Vessels, Smiling Jack and then transferring out. It would have been interesting to play on, but it could have easily gone on for another half hour and maybe longer. My next few cards were Giants Blood and Fame, which would have helped me considerably. Oh well.

Sam GW 4vps, Steve 3vps, Geoff 0vps, Kieran 0vps, Paul 0vps, Richard 0vps, Stevan 0vps.

We all then got to go home, after having another successful meet at The Huntsman. I am sure I will try and organise another one soon, perhaps for the first Wednesday of May, which would be the 7th. They have updated their menus, although four of us still went for the House Special Burger, currently christened the Vtes Special.

Next week (9th April) Nick should be back, although Steve will be off to France and Kieran is busy. The plan will be to play at 18 QC Gardens, although might need to check the buses for Nick as the A36 is currently closed, so it might take even longer than usual.

The week after (16th April) Steve will be back for a week, while Kieran is still busy. Again plan for 18 QC Gardens, we will have to see how many players we get.

Upcoming Events.

7th May Vtes at The Huntsman - really should chase up Phil about this, also no excuses this time Andy!

14th June, ECQ in Swansea, I know that Richard and Graham are unavailable, I have to check myself.

12th July, Constructed Tournament in Swansea.

9th August, pencilled in date for BloodBATH 2008: Sixth Tradition.

I would also like to pencil in some other tournaments, but for the numbers of players we currently have it would need commitment for two consecutive Wednesday nights - would be rounds 1&2 first week, and round 3 and final the second week. I have a good prize available, which is the game Prince of the City - almost a Vtes boardgame for 2-5 players. I would also hope to have a set of Blood Shadowed Court and still available is a signed Saulot and the Werewolf Puppet.

Sam

Game 1

Sam Mexican Sisters > Stevan Follower Bleed > Graham Swissimites > Paul Cybele and Great Beast.

A very quick game, mostly due to Paul getting a very good start - first turn Information Highway, and no one playing any reaction cards! This meant that I could get the Sisters gaining SAN and bloating, but being bled for 17 within the first five turns at stealth was more than I could handle, and out I went. Stevan could put up some defence, but the Beast is a fearful creature and he got through. Graham then tried to surge forward, but even his best efforts of bleeding for 10 in a turn couldn’t dent Pauls bloat as Cybeles and Great Beasts found Golconda, Minion Taps and reincarnations from the Soul Gem.

Win
4vps GW Paul, 0vps Graham, 0vps Sam, 0vps Stevan.

Game 2

Sam !Brujah Bleed > Paul Anarch POT > Stevan Followers Bleed > Graham Swissimites

A slightly slower game, but still not good for me. I struggled with crypt again, and the minions I gained didn’t have the skills required once in combat. Pauls minions just went with big POT strikes, and battered everyone. Stevan went forward, and put lots of pressure on Graham who managed to oust me with some bleeds at stealth - Khabar: The Community giving them all stealth. Paul then pushed through Stevan with occassional rushes at Graham, and Anarch Revolt helping with the oust. Graham tried, but couldn’t get through Pauls minions especially as he had lost his larger minions in torpor.

3vps GW Paul, 1vp Graham, 0vp Sam, 0vp Stevan.

Paul 6 GWs 2 Draws 21.0 vps 13 Total Games 0.46

Graham 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 13 Total Games 0.15

Steve 2 GWs 1 Draws 9.5 vps 4 Total Games 0.50

Sam 1 GWs 1 Draws 7.5 vps 12 Total Games 0.08

Kieran 0 GWs 2 Draws 2.5 vps 4 Total Games 0.00

Stevan 0 GWs 1 Draws 2.5 vps 9 Total Games 0.00

Nick 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 3 Total Games 0.00

Geoff 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 2 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 13 Games (11 GW, 2 Draw)

Next week we are meeting at The Huntsman pub in Bath. I will be there from about 6:20, so hope to see a lot of you there - could be eight of us potentially.

Sam

Game 1

Paul Muaziz Trophy > Sam Tremere Bruise/Bleed > Graham Tremere Stealth Bleed > Geoff Akunase Toolbox

We had a whole lot of thaumaturgy on the table, but fortunately no contesting. I struggled, as I had no minions with DOM, so that stopped my bloating. Graham on the other hand got a couple of free minions as he had the DOM and the stealth to get past me and Geoff. Geoff built up, experimenting with the Laibon cards - all new to him. Paul also built up, and tried to get a couple of Red Lists into play. I tried to go forward, but ran into similar combat from Graham except he pulled the Walk of Flames and I didn’t. With Paul pushing forward I ended up with most of my minions in torpor. Geoff tried to resist Grahams bleeds, but Mirror Walk took its toll and he was ousted. Paul followed soon after, and then I fell within a turn after that.

WIN
Graham 4vps GW, Geoff 0vps, Paul 0vps, Sam 0vps

Game 2

Geoff Toreador Toolbox > Paul Muaziz Toolbox > Graham Brujah Bruise Bleed > Sam CEL FOR Anarchs

This was a battle of the Camarilla vs the Anarchs as everyone else drew out Princes and I drew out weenies. I got a few early Anarch Revolts out, which put Geoff under pressure. Paul tried some tricks with his deck, but Graham managed to stay on top of him. Graham then started to tool up, although the Torn Signposts and Magnums struggled against Weighted Walking Stick, Target Vitals and a load of Diversion. I pushed through Geoff with the Undue Influences, and then started working on Paul. He managed to get a Red List minion, and then actually burn them so scoring a Trophy:Domain for all his work. However Muaziz could only do so much and the Anarchs pushed through Paul as well. It was down to two players, with mine being mostly in torpor. However I managed to recover, and the pool gain from the ousts kept me safe while I ousted Graham

Sam 4vps GW, Geoff 0vps, Graham 0vps, Paul 0vps

Current Standings
Paul 4 GWs 2 Draws 14.0 vps 11 Total Games 0.36

Graham 2 GWs 2 Draws 11.0 vps 11 Total Games 0.18

Steve 2 GWs 1 Draws 9.5 vps 4 Total Games 0.50

Sam 1 GWs 1 Draws 7.5 vps 10 Total Games 0.10

Kieran 0 GWs 2 Draws 2.5 vps 4 Total Games 0.00

Stevan 0 GWs 1 Draws 2.5 vps 7 Total Games 0.00

Nick 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 3 Total Games 0.00

Geoff 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 2 Total Games 0.00

Andy 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Richard 0 GWs 0 Draws 0.0 vps 0 Total Games 0.00

Total: 11 Games (9 GW, 2 Draw)

Next week (19th) it is unlikely that there will be a game, as Geoff, Graham, Nick and myself are away. That still leaves four of you, but you would need somewhere to meet, and some way of getting back. The Huntsman would be an option, as it would get Andy there, and be a little closer for Kieran (who may have an even more limited petrol budget now). Stevan would probably need to take Paul home to Westbury, although there are quite a few trains available.

The week after (26th) we will have to see what is happening, as Grahams second child will be very near due. Nick will still be away then, so we will be a few players down.

The week after that (2nd April) Steve should be back from Iraq, so it might be worth trying to organise a big meet, maybe at The Huntsman (unless Andy is going to sort out his lack of car). We could then have potentially eight players.

Sam