Explanations (Areron) - Frederico's Haven

He laughed.

"I am afraid that we don't truly have someone suitable for holding the position of Keeper, at this time. Jasmine is good, but she is still an unreleased childer. There's Cassiel and Malachi... Cassiel is too hot-tempered and Malachi is too busy, spending his time between here and Paris. Then there is Jennica, who is, by reputation, not a suitable choice. Too much scandal. There is myself, who is currently acting as the lesser harpy to our dear Caitiff. That leaves only you, darling, and if you're going to take over as Estaban's whip, I fear there won't be time. With your duties to the clan and all, since Estaban has neglected them."

"I'm too new in this city anyway, though I confess it is a position I've never held, but always wanted."

"If not exactly one of our own, how about a friend of the clan? Someone we can count on to listen to our interests?"

He tilted his head, his lips pursed.

"Do you know of such an individual? The most I've seen here look at the Toreador with disdain."

"I have no idea, that's why I was asking you." She fowned. "Then, it'll have to simply be a lost opportunity I'm afraid." She sighed.

"If the position is really so cursed, then I'm sure we'll have another opportunity later when we are more prepared."

"If we are really so friendless in this city, then that's something I should focus on, rather than finding a replacement keeper. That issue is far deeper."

He looked thoughtful.

"Individually, we aren't all that alone. But there's Cassiel, who is getting married to Alex Rourke -- a Gangrel -- and Kindred marriage is just odd. Then you have Jennica, and I know there is some kind of history between Cassiel and Jennica, but I'm not sure the extent of it. Abuse on the part of sire and childe, I believe. Malachi is very flamboyant and catty, but is a fashion designer and it's expected. Then there's me, and I am not afraid to admit that I get... distracted... easily. Oh, and my daughter, whom you have not yet met. Individually, we have our own circle of friends and allies. The only issue with having that circle is that it does not, and never has, extended to the entirety of Clan Toreador. As a whole, I believe most see the Clan as weak, easily swayed. And I can't say that it is untrue."

"We have a severe lack of politically minded toreador in this city. There's no cohesion. No grace." She said, it was harsh, but it was honest.

"Talk to you is like a breath of fresh air. Estabon himself said that no one plays the great game in this city. That has got to change. Welps like Cassiel need to be put in line and taught some manners, you catch a lot more flies with honey and all that. Jennica could stand to learn that lesson too, from what you've said, not that she's a welp."

"Leading the toreador is like herding cats, always has been, but when the toreador primogen is distracted himself, then there's simply no hope for the clan as a whole. We need focus. We need goals and I will push Estabon to give them. Force him to call the clan to heel."

"People enjoy being given tasks. Being made to feel important. A part of something. Estabon will give that to them, the clan will benefit and everyone wins."

He smiled.

"I fear that you don't know my son all that well. While he loves all of those things, as you have said, his attention span is that of a drunken gnat."

Areron sighed. "At least let me try, it doesn't sound like our clan has much to lose if you give me a couple months to try to motivate Estabon. If the clan isn't moving in the right direction and we continue losing members, then he will simpley have to be removed. For his sake and for the clans, provided we find a suitible replacement."

"It is a shame you aren't willing to take the position yourself."

He flashed her another bright smile.

"Oh, I have no qualms about letting you try. As for taking the position myself, I like having the freedom to be nomadic when I wish. While good at it, the truth is that I start to care less and less as I wish to go and do other things. And that is just because I feel tied to some place, whether I truly am tied there or not. I'm aware of my faults."

Areron looked like she thought that was just too bad. She wasn't so sure he wouldn't be brilliant.

"You've helped give me a much better picture city of the clan and this city. Thank you." She bowed her head.

"Should I ask Estabon to make me his whip or will you?"

He laughed.

"You should probably do it. He'll listen to you before he will listen to me, at this juncture. He is certain that I dislike his woman, though I've just explained that I do not. To you. I honestly don't think he sees why I have such an issue with what is going on there."

Areron nodded. "Alright then. I'll do it right away."

Her face softened. "Don't worry. His obsession may burn bright and firery right now, but all things fade in time. He'll be back to his old self soon enough. He does love you and respect you, that much is obvious."

His brows rose.

"Is it? Because from where I sit, I do not see it. He speaks it, but he does not mean it."

"He has nothing but kind words for you. You are second only to his obsession and like I said, I'm sure that will change in time." She stood and then bowed deepy.

"Thank you so much for seeing me. It was an absolute pleasure."

He rose from his own seat, giving her a gracious bow in return.

"I assure you, Miss Areron, the pleasure has been all mine."

Areron smiled then took her leave. She was feeling pretty good about the whole thing and now had a clear course of action.

He walked her out, returning back to his living room and his glass of whiskey.

(scene)