November 5, 2000
Dearest Jane,
This has been the most nerve-wracking last couple of months. First, I manage to salvage some very important items from the waters beneath the destroyed chantry, including most of my letters to you and a couple of pictures. Magical items, one of Booker's safes and even one of Zacharie's waterproof/fireproof boxes.
Then, I end up owing Prince Carmine a life boon so she would not kill Zacharie on sight, due to his impulsive and less-than-respectful nature. I never told him about it. I never planned to. Now, I don't know if I will even get the chance. Zacharie disappeared about 2 weeks after Booker was kidnapped. His houseboat looked to be suddenly abandoned. Savant, his owl was still around for a while, then it flew off to the wild again.
Speaking of wild, avoid the Lupine at all costs. They are just as scary and mean as their reputation says they are. I had two face-to-face encounters and I do not want to go for a third. Though, I did call the Leader one last time to dump the entire Tosco Refinery mess in his lap. It's their enemies. They can deal with them.
Several weeks later, at one of the Kindred gatherings, I met Dr. Justari Achellios, the new Regent assigned to Dark Water Chantry. At first, he seemed to hate me, busting me to Apprentice but by the end of the evening, I was Magus again, he was accepting my advice and he even bargained with the Prince for her prize to give to me.
I don't think I need to go into my feelings on that little bit of pleasure.
After all that, the Archon, Etienne Rouge, ended up declaring a blood hunt on the Prince for her lack of good leadership and letting her domain fall apart. Mr. Wong and I searched for her but I am not certain what we would have done if we had actually found her instead of just one of her havens. Also, both of the Dukes disappeared during this time.
On the 28th of October, there was a Masquerade Ball hosted by the Archon in order to introduce the new leadership in the area. The Ball went surprisingly well. I actually had a good time. We met Prince Gregor Skolnikov, his Seneschal, the Monsignor, his sister Anja Skolnikov and two of the Prince's retinue; Vincent and Boris. I am rather impressed with the new leadership but still a lot wary. The Prince is a fine and strong man who is very capable. But in all honesty, I am wary of the new leadership being old world Tzimisce and the Seneschal being Giovanni. They are presenting a wonderful front face. But I'm still waiting for the other shoe to drop.
In the meantime, I will continue looking after the new Chantry and studying with Justin. It has been pleasantly calm since the Wilson's Common affair has been dealt with. Though, I do wish Justin would let me help him with his investigation into the kidnapping of Regent Booker and the disappearance of Magus Lavoux.
Love,
Kayley
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