65

Corliss raises an eyebrow at your impertinence, but doesn't say a word. If Trevor is offended he shows no sign of it. "Your sire's told me a great deal about you, Mekuztli."

I'm in Ottawa by request of Prince Annabelle of Quebec—we're hoping to come to an arrangement regarding our clan's repatriation. I dearly wish to work with Henrik Lang again. There's an ongoing project we have on the proverbial kettle in our chantry, and while Henrik needs my expertise, I find myself in something of a predicament."

A predicament, indeed. The Tremere have put themselves in a difficult position by leaving Ottawa in a fit of pique when Arundel welcomed their old enemies, the Banu Haqim, into the city. Are they looking to save face despite returning while Kashif is still welcome in the city? Or are they still hoping to force the vizier out?

"We are willing to admit to acting rashly. "Well…" he smiles disarmingly, "Henrik will admit no such thing, but most of us are willing to let bygones be bygones. Prince Annabelle has arranged a sanctuary for the Banu Haqim in London. Ontario, of course, not the United Kingdom. She is willing to discuss it with Mr. Salik in person, with full assurances to Prince Arundel that he will be returned unharmed."

"I spoke to Lang about that earlier. He seems considerably less optimistic about your chances than you do."

Trevor chuckles. "I enjoy working with Henrik for his expertise—his knowledge of Vitae is second to none—but the man is a pessimist. He's more at home when he's lost in the art of ritual than talking face to face with other Kindred, much less a former enemy from the Banu Haqim. Henrik is what they call 'old school,' he's been completely opposed to the structural changes happening lately to both the Camarilla and our own clan. My Prince sent me because I have a knack for getting things done, even if I'm required to use unorthodox methods."