The Archon sniffs. "The crises in this city are mounting up at such a pace that even I can barely keep up with them. I received a report on last night's raid, but as I'm sure you can imagine, the bombing of Elysium took precedence. Lang is the local chantry keeper—I'd imagine his Blood is capable of quite powerful Thaumaturgy in the right hands. That being said, how do you suppose they managed to attack Elysium at the same time as they were fighting off your Blood Hunt?"
I'm quite familiar with what can be accomplished through Thaumaturgy and Usurper rituals," Adeline says. "But I also know their limits. I once worked very closely with a powerful chantry in Europe, and the things they could do with the Blood would make a Sabbat blush. But for all their power, they aren't capable of being in two places at the same time. No," she shakes her head. "This wasn't done by the Tremere, but it's interesting to know that they turned against Henrik. That information is useful to me."
Is there anything else you wish to tell the Archon?
The Archon nods. "I've seen Eden in conference with Mr. Haidt twice since arriving in Ottawa. Well-mannered fellow, excellent dresser. But if I don't miss my guess, his charm is a Trojan horse. Under normal circumstances, using you as an intermediary would have been the smart choice, but it could be read as too cowardly for a Seneschal with her eyes on ascension. She's playing it safe, but it opens her up for attack. What message did you bring to the unfortunate Mr. Salik?"
"I was asked to extend an offer to the Banu Haqim newcomers as a whole—a sanctuary in London, Ontario, where the clan can build a new home, free of Tremere influence. Corliss wanted me to announce her support for the deal."
Adeline chuckles, trying unsuccessfully to hide her reaction behind the back of her hand. "London was once a domain of the Sabbat before it was taken by Anarchs. It was later abandoned by its Baron—rumor suggests a Werewolf infestation of the surrounding farmland, but no one knows for sure. What was the vizier's reaction?"
"He was furious," you say. "Even Ophelia felt that it was an insult."
"Ah, the Seer," Adeline says. "Don't underestimate Ophelia, Agad the Imperishable. I've learned the hard way on more than one occasion to be wary of the Children of Malkav. If the rest of you are playing a political game, you should always remember that Ophelia is at least two steps ahead of you. History's greatest geniuses were all Madmen; they'd have you believe that their insight is a product of mysterious omens, when in reality they're simply connecting pieces of a puzzle that no one else sees." This time she doesn't bother hiding her grin. "So tell me, what do you think of the offer? Is the Prince of Quebec City acting in good faith? Or does Annabelle's gesture leave a bad taste in your mouth?"