The chief justice was still searching through those ancient documents in secret, while his direct subordinate, the carnivore John Bennett, received a summons from the Senate. John Bennett dared not be negligent; he hurriedly climbed out of his coffin, carefully shaved his face, changed into a clean evening suit, wrapped a red scarf around his neck, and rushed out the door. Though it was said to be a summons from the Senate, upon arrival he realized it was actually Lord Patrick who had called for him. Lord Patrick was the most open-minded among the seven elders and had always enjoyed the support of the new generation of vampires like John Bennett. Many innovative measures were only able to be implemented thanks to his backing; the blood product factory that provided everyone with “snacks” was built because of his support. John Bennett paid his respects with utmost reverence. Although this time Lord Patrick’s support for Peter Yates seemed a bit unbelievable to him, considering the lord’s consistently progressive stance, it was likely just another of his reforms. John Bennett’s respect for the lord remained undiminished. “My lord, you wanted to see me?” John Bennett placed his right hand over his chest and knelt on one knee.

“John Bennett, you’re here.” Lord Patrick, his face veiled in black gauze, was approachable, like a friendly uncle next door. If not for the veil he wore year-round, no one would ever guess he was one of the seven elders who ruled the vampires! The black veil was something all the elders were required to wear, even during the “Blood Bath Ritual,” and they never took it off. It was said to be a demonstration of the elders’ commitment to the principle of “seclusion from the world.” “John Bennett, do you and Baker find my decision a bit hard to understand?” Lord Patrick spoke warmly and with great empathy. John Bennett lowered his head and replied, “John Bennett wouldn’t dare!”

Lord Patrick said, “I understand, Peter Yates has many flaws, and his methods may be a bit extreme, but that doesn’t overshadow his achievements. I want everyone to see that, at this time, there are very few among our new generation of vampires as enterprising as Peter Yates, serving the Camarilla. I want them to understand that they have the chance to become carnivores like Peter Yates, as long as they work as hard as he does—this is an incentive system, John Bennett, do you understand?” John Bennett nodded, “Yes, John Bennett understands!” Lord Patrick nodded, “I know you’ve had some trouble lately, but don’t worry, I support you. I believe you are innocent!”

Leaving Lord Patrick’s residence, John Bennett felt a wave of relief. The lord’s support was like a stabilizing pill for him; he no longer had anything to worry about. It was still daytime, and even John Bennett had to wear thick sunglasses, but under the sunlight he still felt a bit uncomfortable. He quickly dashed into the nearby subway station, planning to catch a flight out tonight to continue his mission of monitoring the Sabbat!

As night fell, bats flew in flocks across the city sky, silver moonlight shining on their black wings. The skyscrapers became their groves, and lights shone from the buildings, while the people working inside remained completely unaware of anything unusual. Peter Yates loved the night, the kind of night with a full moon high in the sky. Tonight, he was in an excellent mood, and he believed John Bennett must be feeling good too. On a sunny winter day, anyone would want to go out for a walk; on a night with a full moon, every vampire wants to go out for a stroll. Peter Yates was sure John Bennett felt the same. This was the perfect time to visit his boathouse. Following the blueprints provided by the National Security Bureau, he smoothly avoided all the surveillance cameras and security devices, making his way into the boathouse. The interior decor struck him as rather odd; there were many strange things he had never seen before. Just as he descended the stairs and entered the lowest level, he suddenly froze—because John Bennett was sitting in a chair, watching him!

When Peter Yates entered, he tentatively released a trace of energy, but John Bennett’s power was above his, so it was easy for him to evade detection. Peter Yates felt a bit embarrassed; even for him, being caught red-handed like this made his face burn! John Bennett stood up, holding a glass of wine, and raised it toward him: “Welcome! So, have you finished your tour?” Peter Yates gave an awkward smile and shrugged, “What a pity, I can’t make sense of your collection!” John Bennett’s expression darkened. “I’ll be going now!” Peter Yates hurriedly turned around, and at the same time, quietly pressed the device at his waist. In his lair, a red light lit up.