Kindred of Savannah,
There are nights in our Requiem where the cracks beneath the surface break open—and we are reminded just how fragile our hard-won order can be. Last night was such a night. I come before you not with panic or blame, but with clarity, and with the assurance that this Court still stands firm. A confrontation between Viktor Ivanov and Sho Takeda escalated beyond control, resulting in the death of Elder Ivanov and a significant Masquerade breach. This was not the work of the Brood, nor an external threat—it was an internal tragedy born of rage and fractured loyalty.
In the aftermath, our Sheriff and his Deputies responded swiftly. During the investigation, Sho Takeda was found responsible and destroyed. The Sheriff himself fell to torpor in the process—a blow we all feel—but his body is safe, and I have already placed his care into trusted hands. Seneschal Abernathy has assured me he will return to us in time. Each branch of the Sheriff’s department responded with strength, resolve, and unity in a night that could have spiraled far further. Their actions kept the fire from spreading.
The Arena is no longer secure. It was the site of the conflict and will need to be razed. Our agents are working to recover Viktor’s remains and ensure that what is left behind cannot be traced back to our society. However, I must inform you that during the chaos, a human life was lost—drained completely in a frenzy. This is being handled with utmost care, and efforts are already in motion to contain the fallout and preserve the Masquerade.
This was not a coordinated assault. This was not a failing of Clan or Covenant. The Ventrue were blindsided as much as any of us, and I remind this court that suffering is not a license for suspicion. We mourn Viktor Ivanov as we would any elder lost in defense of his principles, and we acknowledge Sho Takeda’s passion, even as we grieve the damage left in its wake. These are not easy nights—but we must remain together in them.
There will be no collapse. No chaos. We do not stumble in the dark—we adapt, we learn, and we rise. I will continue to lead this Court with vigilance and conviction, and I expect the same of each of you. Those who still stand must stand steady—for those who have fallen, and for the city they fought to protect. If you have concerns, speak them. If you have fears, voice them. But do not mistake silence for weakness. Savannah endures. And we endure with it.
In Vigilance and in Unity,
Marcus Devereaux
Prince of Savannah
Grandfather of the Mekhet
Custodian of the Obsidian Mausoleum