2026-03-07 16:52 - 20:08 PST
A couple of Kindred walk into a bar. Specifically: Thalia, Kaveh. They were there looking for one Luke Grayson, as Johnny had informed them he frequented the bar and was also the one who’d captured Sabirah Tanner. When they found him, he was with Hound of the Sheriff Calimastia Ayton.
“Welcome! I’ve been told you’re here to speak with me. Or attack me. Please, sit.”
They began to negotiate. In the end, they made the following deal, which Kaveh felt compelled to uphold his end of.
- The Camarilla would return Sabirah Tanner to the Anarchs
- And the Camarilla wouldn’t immediately try and recapture her without further provocation
- The Anarchs would return the Van Guard Coterie
- And Kaveh would cease all blacksmithing, as well the operations of his shop for exactly one week
Then they parted ways to later meet at The Blessed Sacrament to exchange prisoners. Meanwhile, Calimastia spoke with Luke.
“I am not opposed to you exerting your powers to accomplish aims furthering the Camarilla. But, in matters concerning the Masquerade, I ask you consult the Sheriff’s office before performing hostage negotiations with Anarchs. These are fledgelings, not good standing members of our society.”
“Miss Ayton, do you know the proverb about flies, honey, and vinegar?”
“Recount it from your perspective.”
“This proverb has been principal to the success of my financial and personal endeavors, miss Ayton. These Anarchs we deal with are flies, Grotesque, irritating, undignified flies. But the allure of honey is too sweet for them to resist.” Luke smiles warmly. “Offer them a thoroughly Dominated whip, so impotent she will be no more troublesome than a lone ant. In exchange, what do they bring us? Four soldiers that will ensure the loyalty and gratitude of an otherwise unstable individual. A week of an inaction, in a war where seconds matter, from an arms dealer whose work shall soon be outmatched by our own new recruit. And, most importantly, the social cues of our greatest enemies.”
“I am not doubting your judgement, assertions or ideals, Mr. Grayson. What I do know, however. Is that flies eventually cause infection. I sincerely hope this all goes to plan. But. We’re here to help you for a reason. Have a good evening.” She’ll see herself out.
“Please, before you leave.”
She pauses.
Luke stands and offers a polite bow of his head. “I mean no offense to you or your Office. Without your painstaking work, the Camarilla would be swiftly overrun by barbarians and mongrels. I simply aim to explain my point of view.”
“Of course, Mr. Grayson. I mean not to accuse you of anything. Your work is equally invaluable. I hope to work closely with you in the future.” She’ll give her own slight bow, and depart.