60

"My soul yearns for Alamut," Kashif says. "But I also know that I'll see it again some day."

"How can you know? Is there a plan?"

"God has a plan for us all, Mekuztli. Even we Damned have a place in His design. I know that I will see my home again because I can feel God's righteous anger. He will smite the pretender Ur-Shulgi, and we shall be the instruments of His divine retribution. For now we gather strength and allies. We are ageless; I can afford to be patient as we plan our return. Our belief in justice has been tested, but we also believe in a chain of command. I've noticed that many young Camarilla appear to worship their elders as gods." He nods toward Corliss on the other side of the room. "Would you cry out to your sire were you to find yourself in dire peril? Would you do everything in your power to keep her safe? And more importantly, is her word your law?"

He's fishing for something—his question has the feel of a test. You hesitate for a moment before giving your answer.

Ophelia makes a show of raising her eyebrows. "That's a bold thing to say with her in the same room. What would happen if I went over right now and told her what I just heard?"

"You won't," you say, feigning confidence. "Kashif had a reason for asking me that question."

"Quite perceptive of you," Kashif says appreciatively. "In more certain times I would not make this request, but repeated attempts on my life breed desperation."

"It's a bad idea," Ophelia whispers loud enough for you to hear. "If I failed, so will she."

Kashif smiles. "Sometimes a leap of faith is required of a believer. I do not believe God would save me only to abandon me now. I have too much left to accomplish."