An ant comes here and dares to challenge them?
If a spider perhaps he'd give the ant more respect,
but this was ant challenging a god.
What could the ant possibly do?

"Spare us the theatrics." Bedivere glared at Martin, his patience was thin, though his hairline was not. Despite his appearance, he looked good for age, and old he was. Not as old as the elders here, and most definitely not as old as Old Gabe. But, still he had years behind him and knew how best to deal with mortals. They took not too keenly to the blade, never did, never will. For of course they are mortal and fear their death, a meaningless end to a meaningless life. "I have seen better dealings in a Marlowe production. You play where gods dare thread."

"Mithias Dear boy, we are at war with the mortals, and I do hope your unwavering allegiance stays with me. As such, I brand this mortal to be made a prisoner of war. His plea for his life entails the release of your gift to me, a treasured gift  cannot part with. Thus perhaps it is best that you handle this petulant mongrel." A devilish smile danced across his pale lips, the elder vampire's fangs sharp as his poisoned wit. He turned back to Martin with a calm and casual glance, establishing his superiority over the human. "You were already dead Mortal, the moment you set foot here. Your blood belongs to us, not your body, and as it is said may the dead bury the dead." 

"Did you believe that your dangled worm would be sufficient enough to trade for your life? No vampire here is adversely affected by the sun as much as I. And I myself am a collector of artifacts, as such did it not come to you that I had already considered this option? Well it would work not, and thus useless for my line. Now then beside keeping my floor free of you debris, you have nothing to offer me. Mystery and secrets are best left to the masters of the shadows, not humans playing god. your time in my good grace is up." 

"I leave his fate to you My boy, I trust you will act accordingly as my blood brother. Although try not to get the floors too damaged in the process, restoration of this castle was nearly impossible to do the first time. Has quite the reputation you know. Lady Mo, due to my lineages, should you require anything from my resources in my absence during the daylight hours, I have given my agents the command of recognizing Lord Varomere as my protégé. I trust you both to lead us to a deceive victory, as I am far too old for this... But aren't we all? All other immortals in company I bid you a good morning. The cock has crowed."

Stepping a reflection pool he had specifically installed for a quick means of transport, Bedivere left behind the scene, it was time for him to rest and regain his powers for the fight to come. War was coming. And Contagion with Martin's life was left in very capable hands.