>>5818741You exit the carriage, the ancient steps of the acropolis above you. The giant bowls of fire lighting up the ancient temples to Athena. The banners of the duke and crosses symbolizing the Christ were hung about the pillars and statues. Even the Latin Franks could not bring themselves to demolish such history. The duke held his court in the same temple as Elysium - the Prince controls him and the acropolis. It was a rather flagrant display, holding Cainite politics in the same building that mortals conducted their own politics, but it was a lovely display of power as well. The mortal guards on night shift, doubtless on leashes held by Cainites, let them in.
You pass by the splendid and colossal statute of Athena. She stood proud with her spear and shield - at her feet were candles and symbols of devotion to the Virgin Mother Mary. You ponder the implications. Athena was born from the head of Zeus, after all… An immaculate conception, needing no sin to be created. You shake your head away from theology as a familiar figure approaches.
“Benedictus,” you smile at your friend. Many times you two helped each other in tasks decreed by your sire. He was stealthy and good in a fight, whereas you could talk when the need arose. You made a good team out in the field.
“Lord Gavrail,” he gave a stiff bow, as much as his hunchback could allow. Gavrail turned and walked away, ignoring the Nosferatu. “Kalina. It is good to see you,” he glances to your sire. “Is he still kicking you out?”
“Yes,” you feel the pang at the lack of a library. “But I will find something.”
Your friend glances down at his foot, tapping it before looking at you again. “If you need a place, mine isn’t much, but it’s always open to you.”
You let his embarrassment roll off of you, smiling. “Thank you, friend. I will see what my prospects are, but I may come to rely on you.” He nodded grimly, knowing the implication of a High Clanswoman staying with a Low Clansman.
Entering into Elysium was like stepping into another world. Or rather, stepping back in time. The walls were covered in burgundy red, crowned by blue banners marked with white owls above. Moonlight shone down on the statue of Athena in the grand room, made of brass and looking down at the Cainites. Just below her was a raised platform, and upon that stone sat a simple chair. Prince Dionysius sat on a simple wooden chair brought in for him to overlook the political congregation. His Road was of Humanity, and the modest chair and staff he held provided this air. Only his trimmed black robes gave away his clan being Cappadocian.
