After returning to her dorm at Ersand'Enise, Ingrid couldn't wait to rest as a constant headache hammered her head. But there was no rest. Ingrid had not only left her academic responsibilities to the wind, but also left her servants with not even a note to let her know she was out. They knew that at times of high stress Ingrid would go to nature to calm herself but she would never leave them with nothing. All they knew was Ingrid was gone and she had left with her backpack. So when she returned in a sarong carrying a bag of unknown make that was filled with 3 Wyrm Pearls and 10 Wyrm Scales they were in fact very worried. Ragnhild scolded Ingrid as it was not only her job too but also because Ragnhild had watched Ingrid grow and she had never been this inconsiderate.
Ingrid was stung by those words as they were true. She snuck out in the middle of the night in the during a storm with no explanation and came back with unimaginable things. Ingrid could only apologize but Ragnhild wanted none of it, she simply told Ingrid to ready herself for a bath and then to go to sleep. The night ended after the bath and she would have to face any consequences of her actions in the morning.
Day 1
Ingrid had been awoken about an hour earlier than usual. It was quite dark out, not even a sign that the sun would be rising soon. Ingrid's day was going to be full. She had left in the middle of studying, classes that she missed, paperwork that needed to be done, finalizing her speed dating event, apologizing to all her teachers that she may have offended. Unloading the Wyrm pearls and looking into the book from Sileen would have to come later.
Ingrid spent her entire week flooded trying to fix the entire week she disappeared. Ingrid planned to make herself less available during the coming week for her speed dating event but now she has no choice to be unseen as she was swamped with responsibility and some very disapointed servants. Ingrid's plans to have her dinner date with Benedetto also had to be postponed. She felt bad but he seemed to understand for the most part.
Her work load during the first week was immense. There were times that she could remember staring over notes and books and thinking, maybe I should just run away, be a pirate before centering herself and continuing. Ingrid was mostly thankful that she listened to Luna about not taking a 3rd magic class because from what she hears, chemical class is very study intensive. Thanks Luna for making me realize I was indeed a nugget before it was too late.
The first Zeno day back was challenging. Ingrid felt like she betrayed Luna's trust and was ready for a thrashing. But Luna was chill and she seemed to be in the loop. In fact this led to a completely different effect. Some of the students were spreading rumors that Ingrid had went off on one of the Zeno's errands. This did more for her school status than she could have imagined. She let Åsa know ahead of time that she needs to prepare more food for the incoming guests.
Now having caught up on her student responsibilities after a full week of overtime, Ingrid could now try to off load some of the pearls. It was hard to find a buyer on short notice but she was able to find one. She hoped to get at minimum 2500 neskals for it but secretly hoped for 3000 neskals. Ingrid was offered 2600 neskals for it. It was crucial that Ingrid have funds ready for the speed dating event and for certain clubs she wished to join. She accepted the deal and handed over her smallest pearls. Now secured in her personal funding for the mean times she could relax a little and wait for the speed date in 2 days.
The day before the event, Ingrid was finally able to hang with Benny. It wasn't the dinner date that she promised but more of a casual hang out with someone she was trying to get to know better. A little flirty but nothing as bold as making out with him randomly. She was curious about him and how he thought. Of course she was attracted to Benny but at the moment she wanted to solidify their friendship more than anything else and Ingrid wasn't comfortable enough to see if he been willing for a casual relationship. Other than that, it was fun to see him outside the mission
On the day of the speed dating event, Ingrid was up early with her servants preparing the food. Ingrid was in charge of cooking the meats and making the pates. Ragnhild was in charge of baking, decoration, and presentation. Åsa was in charge of making the jams, jellies, and drinks. Ingrid also made Ice creams and sorbets, using her magic to make them fast and impossibly good. Eirik was setting up chairs and making sure his weapons were sharp just in case.
Afterward she spent about an hour and half getting ready. Dress, makeup, going over manners, refreshing herself on potential suitors. Then Eirik took it upon himself to make sure Ingrid could defend herself in her more tighter and restrictive wear. Ingrid was able to demonstrate her defensive skills with a similar level of proficiency as she would show in training. Eirik was still disappointed how winded Ingrid was after a small demonstration. Ingrid knew she needed to take better care of herself.
The speed dating event begins…
A speed dating event that has been rumored to take place at in the week prior to the student social club. Many suitors were looking to make themselves known as Ingrid Penderson is considered a very good investment for almost any noble. A 8.4 RAS, beauty, a wealthy family, good connections across the continents, and many other resources at her family's disposal. Although many nobles have tried to woo her already, Ingrid monopolizes her time and keeps them at bay. This may be some of their only chance to leave an impression on the Eskandish woman.
The event is open to all people and all social levels. From lowly gardener to prince can come if they please. From a spry fresh face man to an elderly Zeno. Participants are to wait in and out of Ingrid's dorm. Her maid will provide food and drink for those who want it. Fine food from many regions have been procured and replicated in house. It is said that some of the entrées and desserts were made by Ingrid herself.
Each date lasts for 5 minutes and is controlled by a finely crafted hourglass. When the time is up the head maid will see you out and pick the next suitor at random. Gifts are not required but if a gift is brought, you may hand it to Ingrid directly to her if you wish. If not it will be taken away by her guardian to a side room and the head maid will inform Ingrid that you brought something.
Ingrid had dreaded this day since coming to the school. It was everything she disliked and it was going to be all on her. Being at a party where there was other people to talk to was more her style. But Ingrid put on a mask and went through the event with strength.
The event was pretty sleezy. She wasn't interested in almost anyone. Some were rich and would be her family's option. Some had the RAS that was near her own. Others were just damn attractive. But none made the 5 minutes feel good. And none could get her to extend the time. However, there were a few people that made the time special.
Ayla
Ayla returned to the Pizza Slice, the big dormitory area which houses her and some of the other noble biros of the academy. As she made her way to her room, there was a big queue outside of it, though confused she tried to break through it to enter her room when some gentleman pushed her out of the way. “Hey, no cutting in, get to the back of the line!”, he shouts, getting others to turn to heckle her, startled, she ends up joining the back of the line full of frowns. Feeling rather sheepish, she tries to ask what the line was even for, only to be dismissed, “Well, you are in it, so you should know”.
As Ayla manages to get to her door, it seems there was an exodus from one of her neighbours, with the next lot being called in. The eager admirers drag Ayla along with them and now she is brought into the rooms of Ingrid Penderson to wine, dine, and meet with the noble girl herself.
Ayla watched as many suitors entered and exited, the atmosphere was less than jovial, as she senses a lot of anxiety in the air, many people giving each other dark glares, and overall being less than friendly as tension was so thick in the air, it could be sliced with a sword. The staff were looking a little overwhelmed, as she opened her bag, bringing out her Flauta to play.. She selected an Eskandr theme to play, starting to recite it to pacify and calm down the others in the room. youtu.be/3065Sw9t5D0
It was some time till Ayla was interrupted by one of the maids. It seems they made the strategic decision to call her in as one of the last due to the calming effect her music had upon the others. “Lady Penderson will see you now”.
As Ayla is brought in, she recognises from the Desert, though looking far more dressed up and beautiful in her attire for this occasion, “Ingrid! So these are your accommodations then”. With genuine surprise, she moves up close to the girl, taking her hands in a warm squeeze. “It is Ayla, we met in the Desert without formally introducing ourselves.”
In the middle of a conversation with a drab suitor, an unexpected musician started to play in the waiting room. An Eskandish piece that Ingrid could play by memory herself. It calmed her soul and even made the current suitor barrable. Ingrid knew that whoever was playing this was going to be saved till the end as Ragnhild, the head maid, loved this more than Ingrid.
As the mystery musician was finally slated to make an appearance, Ingrid could only imagine who it could be. Maybe an Eskandish man trying to woo her with his impressive skills. One of the many performing musicians near the school, trying to make an impression to the rest of the suitors as well. Whoever they were, they had impressed Ingrid already.
As Ragnhild brought the musician in, Ingrid was surprised to see it was none other than Ayla. Ingrid just smiled as Ayla seem to be the affectionate type as she moved in to hold Ingrid's hands. Ingrid just looked slightly down to the petite woman as she herself was still sitting. Ingrid replied in turn, "Well it is good to formally meet Ayla, come take a seat," Ingrid gestured to the chair just across the small table that would separate them. Ingrid with a slight use of kinetic magic, flipped the hourglass in the corner of the room, starting the timer once again. "So, I heard from Ragnhild that it was you that was the musician out there. It was beautiful I must say. I don't know what mood I may have been in without it." Ingrid kept herself in her seat, neither leaning back or forward as she had not fully figured if this was a friendly meet up or a romantic gesture. Ingrid thinks this is friendly but best to be on the safe side until she can say definitively
Ayla smiles widely, “Don’t know what kind of party this is, but some of them out there were looking as if they were waiting for execution, very anxious and with a lot of negative vibes. Hoped for it to lighten things up. Glad you found it refreshing”. She blushed for a moment as she realised she misspoke to the party host as she aimed to change the subject, where she was offered to make her introductions. “Ah, yes… … Pleased to meet you Lady Ingrid Penderson, you do live up to your reputation as the bluebell of Eskand”, Ayla overheard some comments like that, and it is true, the Eskand bluebell is a pretty flower and Ingrid is well dressed in front of her. “My name is Ayla, daughter of Duque Duerte, Casa Arslan del Torragon, Guardian del Varrahasta, Protector del Río Arapor, Warden del Reserva Natural de Arapor, Keeper de la Basílica la Llama Sagrada… the Unburnt…”, Ayla accidentally slips in the joke title Zarina gave her after the events of the Desert, though pretends to play it off as it is one of her titles.
After the formal introductions, she returns to a more friendly and casual speech, “It seems we are both staying in the Pizza slice, only a couple doors down. They always say it is good to get on with your neighbours. Perhaps we should use the opportunity to meet up under less formal circumstances some time.”, she offers a warm smile towards Ingrid as she takes the opportunity to be comfortable in her presence. “Have you given thought to the Student Societies and clubs? My tummy hungers for the Pumpernickel Clubbe. The Fauna Society looks like it would be good too, lots of travelling and cute animals, the Fireflies look good for all things dragon related…”, her cheeks flush and become a little rosy, “... what do you think of the Fingersteeplers?”.
Ingrid chuckled a little as she described the waiting room as a que for execution and then listened to Ayla's sizable amount of titles. Ingrid had heard the compliment of her being the bluebell of Eskand a hundred times on this day alone but it still brought her a moment of joy as who doesn't like to be complimented. Ingrid didn't posses such a long list of titles, she was more or less "Ingrid, daughter of Ásbjǫrn Penderson." Ingrid stopped for a moment and then let out, "And now a dragons slayer." Just saying it felt good.
Ingrid was surprised to here that Ayla was only a few doors away, "Only a few doors? I'm surprised we haven't ran into each other more often. And yes, I think we should meet in a less formal way. I tend to monopolize my own time but it would be good to have more friends." Ingrid so far enjoyed this meeting with Ayla. She was comfortable to be around. As clubs became of topic Ingrid started to show her hobbies. "I been looking at a few clubs and pumpernickel club was on my list. I love to cook but I'm afraid my baking skills are underwhelming, I feel much better at making savory dishes or an Eskand favorite of Ice Cream." The conversation of clubs had been going smoothly until Ayla seemed to go rosy. Peaked by curiosity Ingrid leaned in, waiting to hear what was about to be spoken. And as she heard Ingrid also started to blush, "I think the Fingersteeplers are... fun. They have also been on my mind."
Ayla cheered and gave a little clap at the ‘addition’ of Dragon slayer. “With these titles.. Do we just make them up, or is there a registered title society?”, she beamed brightly, remarking upon the concept with novelty, “Imagine the advantages to add ‘The one who receives an extra dessert’ and ‘Devourer of Ice-cream’ ?”.
She nodded more vigorously as Ingrid shared the excitement. “During the mission, dressed up as Jocasta. It was terribly fun and exciting. Used it to deceive Duque Frannemas of all people.”. She puts her hands together in the finger steeple manner, “You know, the Perrench have an ancestor of mine as a Grand Demon. Along with a bunch from Eskand too. We can announce ourselves to be the Dark Heirs of Destiny”.
Having someone share in this excitement was exhilarating. Ingrid looked surprised and at the same time impressed, "You really fooled Duque Frannemas? That is quite a feat Ayla. I would love to have seen it but I was probably playing a pirate at that time. Desmond was actually quite good at conceptualizing costumes and acting out as our captain." When Ayla offered to do a Dark Heirs of Destiny thing together Ingrid was all in, "I would love to! It sounds like you already have a grand demon you want to be heir too. Any suggestions for me?" Ingrid is super hyped for this. Joining the club by herself was going to be nerve wracking but with a friend it feels super approachable. Maybe they should get more of their constituents involved?
Ayla considers the options, “From the top of my head, there is Fradje Ironshaper as Greed, and Hrothgar the Black as Tyranny. If you were a mooncaster, definitely be the Ironshaper, but Hrothgar was the king of kings who united Eskandr under one banner to take on the Parrench… though my ancestor burnt his fleet to a crisp. It is said our founder ran a lion that broke through the offensive line, then summoned a great firestorm to burn the ships away. It caused the Eskandr to panic as they fled into the green fields of Parrence trying to find their way back home. Apparently he set fire to that too…”. She muses for a moment, before she looks up and waves her hands in surrender, “No plans to burn down your home, swear it! My family just has an obsession with fire. Avoid trying to use it where possible. It only causes destruction, mayhem, and hurting people”.
She looked a little embarrassed as she went completely off on a tangent, “So where were we… was it the ironshaper, the one who brought down the Avincian Empire which interested you?”
Ingrid understood some history was going to come up but wasn't expecting Ayla to essentially say my family kicked Eskandr's ass back in the day. She showed a bit of displeasure for that part of the conversation to make sure her old fashion maid was not going to make a riot about her not having pride. Ingrid sees that as what it is, history. She has no personal grudges and many of the major events are long in the past. Although what happened at the conclave made Ingrid weep it had no weight on this. Instead, Ingrid focuses on her family's use of fire. "I see fire as something else. In Eskand, the only way to survive is fire. The beauty of a hearth where families gather to stay warm, eat and cook for each other, and laugh and complain with each other. Sure it can be used to destroy but it can be used for so much more than that. Besides, an obsession with fire seems innocent in comparison to an obsession with explosions. I would enjoy seeing a demonstration of your fire some day. And for my choice? Ironshaper is my choice, it has a ring to it!"
Ayla does look very embarrassed by what she kind of implied unintentionally in her comments. She has been thinking a lot about her family recently, with being sent to the academy in the place of her brother, and even finding an old letter from Alizée Arslan at the refuge, it just started rolling off her tongue before she gave serious thought about it.
However, she was most surprised to hear Ingrid’s comments. Almost wide eyed in fact, especially with the choice of words, having a physical tremor as she listened, shaking a little in her seat. It almost got too much for her when Ingrid said about wanting to see her use fire magic. She wasn’t sure what she was going to do with this outpouring of emotion as if felt like she was going to break down in front of Ingrid. She closed her eyes as she began to take deep breaths, longer breathing out with short intakes, doing the breathing technique she was taught to try to settle herself.
Ingrid had not noticed the smaller physical signs of distress that Ayla has been showing. Once Ayla closed her eyes, Ingrid saw that she was overwhelmed by what Ingrid said. Unlike Ingrid who showed some distaste to appease her maid, Ayla seemed to be genuinely distraught. Ingrid was going to wait for her to calm down naturally but remembered the time she was panicking in the alley and Desmond tried to console her. Ingrid quietly moved her seat next to Ayla and rested a hand on her shoulder. She gave a light rub and was more or less being present for Ayla. As although they are on friendly terms, Ayla is a new friend and Ingrid has no idea what is okay for her.
Once Ayla composed herself, she returned back to the meeting. She had noticed the hourglass has come to an end. She takes a breath, “It was good meeting you, Ingrid. It seems time has passed rather quickly. Feel free to come by, would enjoy an opportunity for us to have a more casual chat. Otherwise, would be fun to meet up with you during our society time together, Lady Ironshaper.” She gives a very warmly smile with a light curtsey as she was shown out by the head maid.
An embarrassment had overtaken Ayla as she finally calmed. Ingrid gave a softer smile to show that this was of no trouble to her. Soon Ayla brought back her normal demeanor to make her exit. Ingrid made a small chuckle and replied, "It was wonderful to meet you Ayla. And lets make a grand appearance Lady Arslan. Oh, and before you go, please take this," Ingrid went over to a small chest and grabbed this unusual looking apple and offered it to Ayla, "This is a Brandæble. A fruit that grows near Eskand's volcanos. We use it as a symbol as good luck and I wanted to give this to you for such and enjoyable time."
Silas
The head maid called Silas' name three times before he bothered to so much look up from the pastry tray before him. Her perturbed glare was lost on the sightless boy, as he popped a final sweet into his mouth, still chewing and brushing powdered sugar off his clothes when he finally took a seat across from the host.
"Silas Reiger" He finally introduced himself after swallowing and offered a mildly filthy and clamy hand over the table. "I was at the refuge when you arrived, pleasure to meet you again."
She certainly was tall, and had come in the group with Desmond. Most importantly, she had wealth coming out of her ears. "I won't waste your time, so." A vial was produced from one of his pockets and placed on the table, a dark viscous liquid moving inside. Silas smiled as he leaned back in his seat, arms folded, confident no further explanation was needed.
No one so far had needed there name called more than once as Ragnhild would normally move on but she seemed to be repeating herself. Someone has gotten on her nerves. A blind boy seemed to enter. Not very well dressed and a bit dirty with powder sugar and crumbs on him. He announced him as Silas and he announced that he was at the refuge. Ingrid wasn't shy from shaking hands with him. She has a cleaning rag for such occasions. As she shook, "Ingrid Penderson, pleasure to make your acquaintance." It seemed he was quite bold.
It seemed he was here for some negotiation and he set a vial on the table. Ingrid couldn't recognize it but he seemed quite confident in it. She can't seem to remember what he purchased. She decided to play it safe, "I see, and um, what is it?" Ingrid had no clue on what it was but he was so confident that she wanted it.
"Wyrm gland acid" He explained, unbothered by her ignorance so far. "There's more of it but" His face flushed under the blindfold "It's all in my room with the rest of it. This is just a sample"
He popped the cork off the vial and looked around. There really wasn't anything demonstrate on; any one of the objects surrounding them were worth more than all of the common dorms combined. With a sigh, Silas removed the fabric covering his eyes and folded it on the table, carefully keeping his face lowered in effort to keep the malformed black growths somewhat hidden. Barely a drop of the liquid poured from the vial, but a cloud of smoke bloomed immediately, bringing the smell of scorched linen with it. "Tah-dah. The real stuff." He coughed, waving the smoke from his face. "You should know of course, having helped kill it and all."
All Ingrid could say is "Oh, Wyrm Acid." She felt bad about him using his eye coverings as a test material. She had to question why he was offering this to her. It is a very strong acid and it could possibly used to test the ground for minerals that can withstand the acid. But she couldn't help but believe there would be better buyers. But she'll play for now until she can figure out why he was going to her. I'm sure an a zeno or upper chem mage would buy this up. "Would I be purchasing the vial or the entire gland? And do you have a price in mind?"
"Four hundred carona for the whole thing." He said too eagerly and quickly made to correct by clearing his throat loudly. "Or twenty a vial. Though with what I've heard about your research interests the whole gland is really a better deal."
The sum of Silas' chemical knowledge wouldn't be enough to fill the vial in hands but he did his best to play to her ignorance and managed to keep his voice steadily confident as he re-tied the mostly-ruined fabric on his face.
Ingrid was stunned by the low price. Only 400 Corona. That was within her normal budget. Ingrid was ready to jump on this deal to make an easy profit but had a sudden wave of guilt. It was wrong. He was a commoner and obviously didn't have better knowledge on how to sell it. She remembered Trypano wanting it for obvious reasons. Ingrid had a buyer so it wouldn't be hard to off load. "Silas, that is a very generous offer but I must decline a direct purchase. Instead how about I buy it from you for that price and then I will sell it on your behalf. I take back the 400 corona plus some for acting as the seller and you take home the bulk of the profit for this." Ingrid gave him a pretty good deal considering she could have just stole from him after all. "What do you say," hoping Silas would take it so that he can be properly compensated.
The boy's confidence evaporated with her un-expected response. Silas had thought himself prepared for any response but hadn't expected that. The vial rolled between his hands as he considered her offer. He knew better to trust strangers, especially those promising of a better deal. A better life. It was difficult to keep the flood thoughts about Madame Copin and Moriff. What were some fantastical bulk profits to him compared to more coin he'd ever held before right now? He examined her closely, memorising the kinetic rhythm of her heart before responding. "I have your word you won't make off with the goods and coin?"
Ingrid could see that Silas was skeptical about the deal. And it was smart too in general but Ingrid was being honest. It was a risk that was hard for him to take but Ingrid wanted to make him sure. Ingrid looked at him and said, "You have the word of Ingrid Penderson that I will not make off with the goods and coin that shall be made from the proper selling of Royal Sand Wyrm Acid Gland." Ingrid extended her hand for a shake and said, "Do we have a deal? I believe we could easily make 6 times that amount."
Well her heart beat didn't falter or quicken. Not as far as Silas could tell, but it was hardly and exact science. "We have a deal Then. Thank you, Ingrid." He finally confirmed, shaking her hand a second time just as the last of the sand fell to the bottom of the hourglass. The maid re-appeared, her face still sour as she hurried the commoner away from her charge. "Meet me in the common dorms for the rest; mine's the one with the mulberry growing into the second floor." He called over his shoulder with a casual wave to show the vial gone from his hand, instead left behind in Ingrid's. The maid tutted behind him as she lead the next person into the meeting room, but Silas payed her no mind, and pocketed a few more sweets before leaving the noble dormitories, with a notably gaiety in his step that hadn't been there before.
Zarina
The next ‘suitor’ came prepared with an inordinate amount of equipment. Zarina had not only a large duffel bag over her shoulder, but also a folded tripod with a covered wooden board connected to it under the opposite shoulder. Rightful stares of confusion were dedicated to the Virangishwoman and none of them fazed this confident go-getter. When she came in, Ingrid could see there was an effort to keep up appearances with neatly cleaned and tied up hair and makeup to make Zaz’s complexion appear a tad paler, along with some blush. Nothing too clown-like, of course. Her attire was the usual high-end stuff one expected from affluent Virangish merchants.
”Hello, hello, Ingrid.” she greeted the host with a pleasant tune in her voice and an enthusiastic smile. Before she took a seat, the tripod was set and the board was unveiled to reveal: Zeno Bucks! Now with a Logo, a menu and cute drawings to represent the different drinks and pastries. There were no prices yet. The bag was dropped by the chair with two sealed cups pulled out to be set over the speed dating table that separated them, ”Do you like coffee by any chance?” she inquired as she finally took a seat. A good thirty seconds of her allocated time had already been eaten by her setup.
Ingrid could recognize Zarina pretty quickly even if there interactions had been limited. She was beautiful. But what stood out even more than her beauty this time was the large amount of gear she brought. At first, Ingrid believed that the Virangishwoman would try and sketch her in the five minutes she was allotted. But it became clear that Zarina was hear for something much greater importance, a sells pitch. Second time today actually.
"Zeno bucks," Ingrid mumbled the name under her breath to see how it rolled off the tongue. It had a nice feel to it. It seemed to be a restaurant or something similar. Ingrid watched as some cups had been pulled out and set on the table. Ingrid smiled because she realized she was going to be treated to some coffee, "Why yes, I enjoy coffee from time to time. Is this 'Zeno Bucks' going to be a restaurant you will be starting?"
Zarina energetically nods when Ingrid repeated the company name. It sounds right - Just rolling off the tongue and evoked something rich, maybe even prestigious. Hopefully Marceline’s theory would bear fruit and perception would be as she predicted, ”Sort of, but not quite!” she is quick to answer the question, waving her index finger to keep things ‘moving’ without ever pointing toward her potential investor, ”We imagined something a bit more … Fast paced!” but first, she gestured her hands toward the two cups, ”Do you prefer with or without milk?” Depending on the choice, Ingrid would be given the one she wanted. Both were unsealed, allowing for steam to escape and the smell of freshly brewed coffee permeates the room.
”The limit of many Taverns, bakeries and even the homemade is location and timing.” she indulges in the drink that hadn’t been selected by the ruler of this den, ”I’m sure you’ve been in a hurry more than once, forgetting to get your morning drink or yummers made by your staff. Or maybe you’re craving something at lunch, or in-between periods, but the closest way you could get your pick-me-up is just so faaaar away. And usually takes a while.” and then, her hands dramatically present the Zeno Bucks Logo, ”That is where we come in! On site, fast and efficient! At a reasonable price too!”
Ingrid patiently listened to Zarina's presentation as they only have so much time. Only speaking to say she like it with no milk. The idea was good. The school was a very busy place and many students don't have the staff to have snacks whenever they want and everyone who drinks coffee knows its benefits for studying. Ingrid could see this being a real success with what it was offering and most of all, how much money flows through the school. If they could capture 5 percent of the market here they will be swimming in cash. Ingrid just wished to add, "Since this all seems to be about speed, are they going to deliver these to classes and across the school? Maybe getting identifiable uniforms to make them easily recognizable?"
Zarina wags her finger in Ingrid’s general direction, ”Very good idea and something we have indeed considered.” she straightens her posture on her seat, hands clasped together and her grin barely faltering since the exchange had started, ”To give you a quick rundown of how we’ll operate: We intend to first see the traffic by simply using a kioske to gauge interest, recurring business and popularity.” her hands slowly open up as she gestures, ”From there, we will estimate whether or not a delivery service can be of more than just a marginal benefit in a time of, hopefully, strong growth. Delivery would likely go beyond the school, since we’d be stationed right in front of it.”
She pauses for a moment to let it all sink in, and then continues, ”We haven’t fully considered uniforms yet, actually. Or rather we are still pondering on a design, and your investment would partially help with this part of the project.”
Ingrid could appreciate a good sells woman when she could see one but Zarina had a charisma to her that most did not. However her words were simply gilding the lily at this point. Ingrid could see an excellent investment opportunity. Depending on how much they were asking for, the business could have a quick turn around on profit. Cutting to the chase, "And how much funding are you looking to secure for the initial launch of Zeno Bucks?" Ingrid was curious if she was the first or only investor so far but that can come in on a later date where they can discuss the buisness at length.
Zarina let her back rest on her seat now that they were discussing numbers - the concrete. Both hands return together, flat and the tip of her fingers tapping her lower lip, ”Factoring in the starting fees, designing a uniform which would potentially come a bit later, and the primary materials we’re to purchase in bulk …” she let these elements sink into Ingrid’s psyche before she gave numbers, ”We’re imagining an investment of … 200 Neskals. Quite big, yes, but it does secure our anticipated supply lines and we project a return on this investment within six months, maybe a year if things are not so favourable.”
200 Neskels isn't a lot at the moment. Ingrid's own personal wealth has increased dramatically. They are asking for much less than what Ingrid thought Zarina would. The only reasons why is either it is a scam and she plans on leaving the academy afterward or the are worried on how much of a stake I would have in the company. Ingrid Looked towards the hourglass to measure how much time was lest. A decent bit but less than she would like. "With a 200 Neskal investment, how quickly would we be able to start? And how much of the company would I have a stake in?" Ingrid believes that Zarina also sees how profitable this can be and wants to protect her stake in it.
”When my coffee shipment arrives. So, perhaps a week. We are also investing in sugar and honey, as well as starting equipment.” she replies as soon as the question is posed, keeping it professional and holding back a little on the enthusiasm, ”8%. That is if owning a portion of the company is of interest to you. We are considering going into limited liability, so that number may not be as meaningful as one may think.” she states calmly, her gaze intense but never too focused onto Ingrid’s own.
8%? It wasn't terrible but at the same time she wanted more. Right now she hadn't too many investments so she could take a risk on this a little. However, Ingrid needs to save money for her own endeavors with the galleon. So taking such and easy investment would be preferable. Ingrid didn't hide the fact she was thinking on the offer. "So 200 Neskal and you belief that I could see a return on that in as little time as a year. Fine, I would like to increase my investment to 300 Neskal for a higher stake at around 10% and to when future investments are needed, you come to me first. I would also like a guarantee that if another one were to open, I would be given the opportunity to invest first." Ingrid didn't mind Zarina protecting her cash cow she may have stumbled upon but Ingrid doesn't want to loose the chance to invest further if this truly takes off.
Zarina’s smile folds into a cold pokerface the moment negotiations are underway. No frowning or strong reactions - Ingrid hadn’t stepped out of any lines yet - but she takes her time to think whilst indulging in her own coffee, ”10% and big guarantees. 2% and a ton of trust in a new investor for just 100 Neskals.” she clicks her tongue and drums her nails over the surface of the table before her, ”Strong position. Let’s ground ourselves here. There will be no guarantees of favoritism in investor choice - However you will remain informed of our decisions as a shareholder.” the drumming stops briefly, ”Ingrid Penderson. What would you say that you bring onto the table that would warrant 10%? Beyond Neskals. I only need 200 Neskals from you, after all.”
"Quite fierce Zarina Al-Nader. Do not take my intentions wrong. I believe that having a noble name attached to the business would make it more palpable to the nobility here. I am just open on investments at this time and I believe you have a real winner as well. Plus you are bound to run into issues if with the nobility here if it becomes as successful as I believe it would be. I can add a level of protection to it for a small 10%. Plus it would be easy to spread to the nobles of colder climates where I have more reach. Having come to try it, I can genuinely say that this will become to be very successful in the coming years in Eskand. I know the safer routes to sail. I am a Noble from there and will be able to get other nobles hooked on it before long." Ingrid felt safe with her proposal it seemed like something that would service both of them in the long run. But Ingrid was still nervous as Zarina has a cold expression that is hard to read.
”There are many noble names, and 10% isn’t small.” she is quick to counter, although her expression does soften a little bit to ease some tension she may have created, ”What you are proposing, however, is definitely something I hoped to hear from someone with your specific name.” and the grin is slowly allowed to creep back onto her expression, ”But you are also proposing something that is very different to what Zeno Bucks is going to be in the very near future. Which is why I’m going to propose a new offer:” both hands set themselves flat onto the table, as if she were showing her cards, ”If we grow to the point of such ambitious expansionism, which would entail us branching out, you will have a privileged guarantee when it comes to investing and the means in which we deploy our strategy, should you provide a strong project.”
Zarina wags her finger, indicating she isn’t finished, ”I want us to stay on the initial offer I’ve provided. Not to belittle your offers, but to get this funding going ASAP and allow you to meet my partner before we get too ahead of ourselves. I think her perspective on this is important, and you two could actually get something good going on.” her hands slide back to meet one another, fingers interlocked, ”Does this sound agreeable?”
Ingrid attempt to get more at the start has been forted. The deal was agreeable at the start but Zarina has budged a little. "I can agree to those terms." The timer had nearly ran out, no more time. "You have a good day Ms. Al-Nader. And take this with you." It was a peculiar apple looking fruit. Ingrid smiled and said, "This is a brandæble, a fruit that symbolizes good fortune in Eskand. You are quite interesting Zarina, I hope besides business that we can foster a friendship. I'll have the coin prepared for you tonight if you stop by or tomorrow morning if you wish."
”Great!” Zarina claps her hands together and seems to have almost instantly returned to that chipper and high-energy self she had started this whole pitch with. With the offering of the yummy-looking fruit, the Virangishwoman graciously extended her right hand out to accept the gift, ”Why thank you, Ms. Penderson.” she even lowers her head a little and then takes the time to eye the apple in her hand, ”I reciprocate these feelings, and I hope our efforts with be …” she grins a very toothy smile, ”Fruitful, hehehe. I’m looking forward to seeing the end result of your investment today.” and with that, she performs a dramatic but brief bow as she stands, ”Thank you for your time, and have a wonderful day, Ingrid.” the equipment is gathered and Zarina takes her leave whilst humming a small tune.
Sven
Next up was a boy. He was Eskandr and quite tall: nearly as tall as Ingrid, in fact. He entered with a flourish, dressed in last year's best fashions and a colourful hip cloak embroidered with the sigil of his house: Alfsgard. "My lady," he purred, reaching for her hand rather forwardly, taking hold of it, and planting a smooch on her fingers. His wispy mustache tickled at her skin as he did so. "It ish an honour t' make your acquaintansh."
He flashed a smile of decent but not perfect teeth, for one of his upper incisors was noticeably crooked and there was a hint of yellow to them. "I am Shven Bjornsshon, future Jarl of Alfshgard." It was... difficult to tell whether his name was actually Shven or whether it was lisp, though it appeared to be the latter. "Which, ash you know, ish a large and rich plashe." He smiled again, as if he was reminding himself to do it, and took his place across the table from her, his hand perhaps shaking a little bit but his voice hiding it well enough. "I hear you, too, are from Eshkand. Whereaboutsh?"
The man who walked through wasn't the handsomest of suitors today but it seemed he dressed his best at least. The forwardness wasn't the issue for Ingrid, it was the weird wispy failure of a mustache that planted itself on his face. It tickled and it that was...bad...
His lisp wasn't an immediate no but it made it much more difficult to understand the man. She knew him from when he was younger. He may not recognize Ingrid though as she has changed quite a bit. "Shven it is good to see you again, you have grown quite tall since we have last met. Remember my Grandfather's land is the one near yours, more mountains and trees but near. How have you been?" He seems to be going through a rough time with all the acne, lisp, and yellow teeth. Makes Ingrid thankful for her grandfather's hard work and her beautiful maid Ragnhild.
Sven gulped and his Adam's apple bobbed up and down. "Ah, yesh," he replied. "Ash have you." He blushed. "I think tall women are rather refreshing. The lasht girl my parentsh forshed me to court felt more like a doll than a pershon, to be honesht."
He shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "Anywaysh, I hadn't thought you'd remember." He lowered his voice. "It wash many yearsh ago and Alfshgard is lessh the short of plashe you remember and more the short of plashe you gallop pasht. I shupposhe I have been well enough," he continued, "but how about you?" He smiled a nervous little smile. "I think mosht of these others are jusht after your money. They're either pitching you bushinesshesh or pitching themshelvesh. Might be hard to get a word in edgewishe. Sho, let'sh talk about you a bit, for onshe."
It seemed Sven was going through the same demeaning act of trying to flaunt yourself to find someone on your parents behalf. Ingrid laughed a little about doll sized woman, "I have to agree Sven, some of the women here are small and dainty but from personal experience it is nice to have someone smaller in your arms, you should give it a try some time." Ingrid listened and could tell he was a tad bit embarrassed, "Of course I would remember you. You were quite tall and more importantly you were kind from what I could remember our family's have a history of sticking out terrible harvests together." Sven was right about the people she has seen today, "Your right Sven, I have I have had only 2 people today that I have truly enjoyed." Ingrid was caught off when he wanted to let her talk. It just hasn't happened. "Well alright then, I guess I can try," said Ingrid.
"So I been studying Atomic magic recently and I been learning at a pretty great rate. I may be able to perform some of the highest-level spells before the end of my schooling. I've also made some friends actually and umm..." Ingrid struggled to talk about herself. She wants to limit her mad ramblings about things that should remain secret along with her obsessive hobby. So many things. "I guess I'm pretty terrible at talking about me." Not wanting the conversation to die because of her own ability, she kicks it back to him, "So how has the school been treating you? It can be overwhelming at times for myself"
"Terrible harveshtsh, huh?" Sven grinned ruefully. "Had a few of those lately." He grimaced. "A few too many."
Then, he let her speak and she didn't have much to say. Maybe, like too many young women, she'd been taught to be seen and not heard. Maybe she was just being polite, and maybe she was just hiding something. Sven leaned in conspiratorially. "I heard you were misshing lasht week, on a shecret errand for one of the Zenosh. I won't bother you for detailsh if it'sh all hush hush." He leaned back, a bit more comfortable now, more confident. He slung an arm over the back of his chair. "Atomic Magic shoundsh intereshting," he admitted. "I wash thinking of trying it, but we only have sho many classhesh we can take, you know?"
Ingrid was surprised to see that they already know about some students disappearing for some Zeno errands. With him knowing a little Ingrid wanted to show off a bit. "Keep talking Sven, let me show you something," Ingrid said as she stood and started to make her way to a chest. She talked to him while searching in the chest, "I know right? My Zeno is Luna and she told me to stick with the 2 magic classes. She also calls me a nugget and I kind of like it. Ah~ here it is!" Ingrid hid the scale behind her back for now. and made her way back to him. "Oh and on you doing Atomic? I think you should if you have the RAS. I find that it feels like the school is still untouched with lots of room for exploration. Plus being able to blow stuff up is how I got this!" as she shows of the Royal Sand Wyrm Scale. She would let him grab it if he wished. "I was invited to hunt a dragon. Oh boy was it a blast!"
Sven's eyes widened as he witnessed her pull out the treasure. "That'sh... a Royal Sh-shand wyrm shcale!" he exclaimed, jumping out of his seat. Eagerly, he took it from her and inspected it every which way. "Looksh to be from an unushually large dragon." He furrowed his brow. "Probably Dune Sea shubshpeciesh, male, quite old." There was a flash of magic as he used an Arcane spell to magnify what he saw. Thoughtfully, he did the same for Ingrid so that she could follow along. "Yesh..." he trailed off, inspecting closer. "About three-hundred-fifty yearsh," he decided, his head popping back up and eyes meeting hers. "They have growth bandsh. That'sh how you can tell."
After a moment, he remembered to address her subtle exhortation to try Atomic Magic. Sven's face became awkward again for a moment, the utter glee at handling a dragon scale fading from it momentarily. "Well, yesh, I have the RASH for Atomic." He lowered his voice. "It'sh 8.48, but I don't really like to advertishe it. It jusht becomes a dick meashuring contesht, you know?" He shook his head. "And every other guy I know from Eshkand ish sho inshecure, all trying to be like the raidersh of yore and shit like that." He rolled his eyes. "Thoshe are nishe shtories. They're shomething for our people to be proud of, but I prefer to live in the preshent, you know?"
His eyes glimmered for a moment, flicking over to the dragon scale as he handed it back to her. Their time was nearly up. "I prefer to learn everything there ish about cool shit, like dragonsh and wulliwidsh, forbidden magicsh and faraway countriesh!" He blinked and paused. "Sho yeah, I guessh I should learn Atomic. Maybe I'll get invited to one of thoshe cool adventuresh." He waggled his eyebrows, getting the pun. "That would be a blasht." Sven even winked.
Ingrid felt like the cool kid showing off her pretty rocks with the way he was all over the scale. What surprised her was how much he knew about it. Ingrid just got absorbed into his nerdiness and was now following along to his beat. "So do they grow forever? Or is it that they need there scales to stay and they go through intense growing periods?" She liked people with passions, Ingrid could relate to them easily as she has some intense passions of her own.
When Sven said his RAS, Ingrid just went wow. "8.48? That is super high Sven. And I know what you mean by dick measuring contest. I'm an 8.4 myself so I been constantly compared to one another." Ingrid rolled her eyes, "I know what you mean, all they care about is pretending to be the Vikings of a bygone era. I think certain things can stay but others should be left in the cold. But..." Ingrid looked away and have a bit of a smirk, "Horrik is pretty cool. He plays the whole Eskandish raider thing to a tee and looks good while doing it" Ingrid had no shame. King Horrik was hot.
Ingrid had seen now a few forbidden magic. And seen people of far out lands. Ingrid more just put a hand on his shoulder, "Sven I think following those passions will lead you to many great things. And since you might be doing some Atomic one day, maybe I can tutor you to help you learn faster. Atomic Buddies!" Ingrid busted out laughing at the pun. Puns are a weakness of hers. So bad but so good!
"Well, yesh: they have periodsh of feasht and famine and they're alsho jusht too large to shed all that shkin. Growth shlowsh but never completely shtopsh, at leasht from what we know. Not exactly a lot of Royal Shand Wyrm shpeshimensh to shtudy." Sven only paused to clear his throat. "It'sh the keratin on the outshide that can be shed, and the lamellar bone at the core doeshn't acshually grow much. It'sh the vashcular bone and the coshmine that develop thoshe growth ridgesh, like tree ringsh, and they show through faintly in the keratin layer if you know what to look for."
He blinked, catching himself, and Ingrid used it as an opportunity to address his RAS capacity. "Well, yesh," Sven agreed. "I mean, Vikingsh are objectively pretty fuckin' cool. The pathetic shimping for them ish not. Horik hash... genuine preshence, at leasht. He pullsh it off and it sheemsh like... authentic, you know?"
Then, she was onto forbidden magics and Atomic. "Shee, I'm not shure you'll be happy you made that offer," he teased. "I'm known to be quite the, um, monshter with magic." He grinned challengingly. "The apprentish will shurpassh the mashter in no time!"
Just then, the last of the timer's sand ran out. Sven stepped back, straightened, and fixed his collar. "It hash been a pleashure, my lady. I look forward to our next meeting." With a lanky awkward grace, he took her hand once more, bowed, and planted a second wispy mustache smooch upon it. He then bid her a goodbye, striding smoothly out of the room.
Ingrid thought for a moment and decided fuck it, "Sven, take this before you leave." In an outstretched hand she held the coveted brandæbles. He knew what this meant. And he understands how much it means to give a gift from an Eskandr.
Zarra
Zarra was fascinatingly next in line, trying his best to avoid nervousness brought on by the circumstances. He is holding the wand recently awarded him by Hugo, while at the end of the day, he wished that he had been given the book, he's not going to complain, as it surprised him nobody had vied for it besides him. However, rumors have definitely spread that an Eskandr girl had heard of his acquisition and rather than wait for her to make the first move, Zarra had ultimately decided to take advantage of this strange "speed dating" event she has set-up. Can you ever truly guess the intentions and personality of someone in 5 minutes? How much of her intuition does she trust? Regardless of her answer, he wasn't here for that. He was here for business.
Zarra had entered the room and just sat down. He has said nothing yet and for the first 30 seconds without saying anything. Ingrid decided to break the ice, "Um, hey Zarra, are you here for something?"
Zarra smiles, a little embarrassed. "Sorry, I space easily. I was thinking about what I was going to say. Listen, Ingrid, I'm not going to lie to you and try woo you over like all the other guys. I'm not interested in romance. I'm here because this is the only chance out of your busy schedule I feel I have of just talking about..." He pulls out the wand, which he has rather shameless brandished around the school. "The wand Hugo gave me. I think it would benefit us both if we worked out how it worked. I'm asking you and only you because you are both powerful and brilliant. But it's also out of trust. People like Jocasta or Trypano are also those traits, but they have hidden agendas. They have an idea of what they want and if I'm in the way, I'm going to become collateral. I can't imagine that with you."
Zarra says all this with an entirely cool demeaner, none of it meant to sound complementary, purely factual, making eye contact or looking at the wand exclusively, visibly ignoring the timer on the table that likely stresses many others.
"huh," Ingrid let out. His boldness was on the level of Silas but with less charm somehow. But his compliment game was on point. Though Ingrid would have preferred if he could have given some credit of not being completely harmless. "I guess we can work together on the wand. And why didn't you come to me when we were sleeping near each other at Luna's? Well anyway, I think we can work on it together if you have something to offer me. I am quite busy after all and I don't even know what the wand does."
He shrugs slyly, "That's the thing, I don't know what does either. Hugo says it's Hegelan, which I was going to attempt to research in the library tonight. Being that it's a wand, we can inherently assume it increases they caster's magic skill in some way. Maybe by artificially raising their RAS, or allowing greater control of their chosen spells. Hugo himself said everyone else was a fool to not take it, if that tells you anything."
Zarra wants to continue, but decides it would be wise to let Ingrid speak before continuing to drill towards the end of the conversational point. He hasn't really thought of a good response for her initial confusion. She makes a point of he could've just talked to her then, but no reason at all sounds better than a bad reason.
Ingrid heard him say that it may increase the RAS of the user. It was interesting but she has to ask, "Zarra, even if I want to research this with you, what benefit does it have to me? Would I be partial owner of it? Or are you just offering me the chance to help you and study it?"
"If we figure its the secrets, can't I just make a new one for myself? As a binder, that's kind of the whole point of the school. If not, I'll find the means to do so. Essentially, I just want to know how it works. Once we're both satisfied, I'll let you have it. I'm not in it for money or favors. As comically villainous as it sounds, I'm in it for the power. I'm working on making a deal with Carmilla to study her new tome, the object I originally wanted."
Bold would currently an understatement, in Zarra's mind, he's being outright brazen. Nobody just says their intentions so blatantly, he wonders if Ingrid will find it more suspicious than trying to just lie, or if she'll find it refreshing.
It seems Zarra has gotten through life by not speaking. "Fine, I will help purely for my own self interest as well. Hopefully we can have this ready to use by the trials. oh and good luck with the Carmillia thing. Come by tomorrow and we will sign some paperwork."
"Sure, no problem. Looking forward to it." While the timer had only about a minute left, Zarra in true chaotic personality, 'accidentally' knocks off it the table and ruining the status. "Oh, woops, crap, sorry!" He frantically picks it up and puts it back the emptier side up. He leaves visibly uncomfortable, but it's just an act. The moment the door closes, he gently grimaces at subtly ruins the expectations of others by coming out but the next person not being called in right away.
The event was tiring to say the least, She maybe saw 40 or so people. She looked forward to the gifts that were brought. Fianlly seeing them was quite a sight, hundreds of bluebells. There are so many! The florist should be well off for the foreseeable future. Well either way, Ingrid's work was not done. Ingrid had the prepare her investment for Zarina along with prepare a vessel to hold the gland of the creature. Once that was settled, Ingrid headed off to sleep.
Ingrid woke up early to grab the gland, using telekinesis to hold it aloft in its vessel. Ingrid knew her classes were and had a letter be delivered to Trypano for them to meet at luncheon. At lunch, Ingrid made her way to Trypano's dorm with the acid gland in tow.
Ingrid met with Trypano at her dorm. Ingrid brought the jar of acid and was there more for a quick conversation.
"Good afternoon Trypano, I have a trade offer I would like to make." Ingrid shows the bottle of Wyrm Acid.
Trypano was at her desk when someone approached from the doorway to their dorm. Turning in her chair she looked up to see Ingrid with a jar of what she could identify as a bottle wyrm acid.
"I would gather this would be pertaining to Silas's wyrm acid gland correct? I already have samples of the wyrm acid itself."
"Indeed, He came to me to sell it and I decided you would be most likely to trade for it quickly. What do you have to offer?" Ingrid knew what she would want to trade for but had no idea if Trypano would trade the gland for the egg.
Rather than answer she stood from her chair, moving over to a section of wall within the room. It was close by so she could tell if any others were using magic in a similar capacity on that section of wall. Using a gentle amount of drawing she unsealed a section of brick before removing it from the wall, opening an aperture wherein the froabas egg laid. She removed it before turning back to address Ingrid.
"I'd say given the demand present I'd be happy to exchange this for the gland and twenty Corona to make up part of the difference in market value."
Ingrid smiled, "That seems to be a pretty fair trade. I'll have my servant bring it in." Ingrid signaled to bring it in, showing how much she believed Trypano would want it. "Here you are Trypano. Pleasure seeing you" As Ingrid takes the egg and leaves promptly as she is very busy.
"Ah, before you go-" Trypano interjected just as she was about to leave. "I have something to discuss with yourself and Desmond regarding a matter from our mission, something that pertains to an events slated to come in a few weeks time."
"Do let him know to meet up at some point in the future for discussion, preferably somewhere discrete." She paused a moment, before adding "Unless I spot him first of course. If you do still, my thanks regardless."
With that, Ingrid continued her plan to get Silas the most money. Selling this reticulated dragon egg just before people could join the dragon club is perfect. It is a rare and noble beast that is sure to catch a high bid in this market. Now to hope that she can sell it before clubs begin to make good on her promise to Silas.
The market was not what Ingrid has inspected. She thought that a reticulated frobass egg would be more than 2500 neskal, it seemed that breeders had flooded the market. All she could get was a measly 2500. She felt disappointed in herself for not considering the breeding rates of the dragons this year. So stupid of her. She even saw how many a wild group had. She could have predicted this.
Ingrid decided to bite the bullet and buy the egg for 800 Neskal to at least get him a sizable amount as she couldn't buy the egg for its true price. Ingrid apologized for not getting him more. She left in a hurry, not even able to say that she was unable to even sell it.
To cheer herself up she asked Sven to have lunch with her and showed him the dragon egg. His nerdiness was the medicine Ingrid needed to cheer up a little. Ingrid decided to raise it after failing the beautiful egg so terribly. Sven was obviously excited and Ingrid put it out that she would love the help since he is an expert. Sven was more than up for it. It was a dragon one of his passions. Ingrid also offered one more thing. A Wyrm scale. That way he could join the dragon club with ease. News should be making way to the school of the dragon hunt and with this, he can get into the club if they are being rude to him. Just an easy layer of insurance to help a new friend out.
Location: Sirrahi research lab -> a Desert Interactions: Trypano @A Lowly Wretch, Desmond @Th3King0fChaos, Sileen@Force and Fury Ingrid had been serious about not going through with this if it posed too great of a risk to Nine and her siblings. Nine seemed resolved to accept what might come about from this for the sake of bettering her people. Ingrid couldn't argue with that. Ingrid had never thought too deeply on the way the world operated, she was always too focused on her social standing in the past to care. For someone who has traveled across the continent, her worldview is much more narrow than she thought. Perhaps it is time to change that.
With Seven directing Ten to prepare the transport and revealing how little time they had left, Ingrid only felt how little time there was. She wanted to talk to them more about their world and understand them even if it was superficial. She wanted to spend some time with Nine, not as a test subject but as equals. But there was little opportunity for us now.
Everyone rushed through the halls, Ingrid wasn't in the best shape so she relied on the Gift to enhance her body, using kinetic magic to help keep her going at a reasonable speed. The stairs provided a unique challenge to someone who failed oh so miserably getting on the boat earlier. Ingrid leapt through the air, clearing them ease and as she descended she drew her own momentum of falling to fuel more of her run knowing Penny might need to draw more than the rest of us only having 1 leg after all.
As they ran, Nine decided to start the explaining what exactly were they studying. To Ingrid it seemed like a simple test. The hypothesis felt like it came from someone trying to confirm a bias rather than actually test anything. Ingrid knew but was important to retest things as that is the nature of science but she couldn't help but see their professor as a dick. Some of their talks went over Ingrid's head but she got most of the information about the experiment. Seven came to a stop and they entered the room that seemed to hold their means of transporting us.
The room was a busy-looking room. Full of everything one would need to have their own laboratory, somewhat similar to Hugo's chambers. It was different and Ingrid could tell that they were researchers, there was a certain air to it. It was mystifying how much they could achieve with technology. The energies they had under their control without the Gift was astonishing. Using so many with such ease and a surprising amount of magnetism.
Nine seemed to bring up Seven's interruption to her earlier to our benefit as Seven quickly relinquished and gave an opportunity for us to grab some stuff as a reward of some sort. Ingrid believed the memories were more than enough but there was no time to talk about that. Ten had called over for the coordinates that they needed and Ingrid found that hard to answer as they she had no way of describing the school other than saying its name, an issue that would have never mattered to her if it wasn't for this one moment. Ismette seemed to be able to handle it and was the first to ask for her reward.
Temporal magic? Ingrid thought as she heard Ismette's request. More interesting to Ingrid though was this 'cure' Ismette was looking for. Ingrid wanted to know more about what was going on and if she could be any help to her so she made a quick note of it for after they get home. They seemed receptive to Ismette receiving it. It touched Ingrid that Nine would openly say that she would trust us with that kind of knowledge. Ingrid had some time to look around before Nine returned to help her pick her final selection.
Ingrid smiled at Nine, "Finished up with Desmond?" Ingrid asked, seeing if she had Nine to herself even if it was just for a few moments. Seeing that the coast was clear, Ingrid moved herself and Nine behind the shelves to get a smidgen of privacy. "Hey," Ingrid said shyly as she rubbed the back of her neck then smiled at Nine, "I know we don't have long but I wanted to thank you. I know you said that this time with us has changed you but it has changed me as well." Ingrid looked away as she tried to summarize her thoughts in an efficient way. "Before coming here I was so focused on myself. I think I always cared for people but I never allowed it to be my focus. I never took a hard look at myself or the bubble of a world I lived in. I learned so much from this time away from the academy. It was painful and scary but it has opened my eyes to many things. I only know now that there is much more for me to do before I can say I have bettered myself now." Ingrid looked into Nine's eyes, placing her hand on her cheek, "Whether you know it or not, your passion has changed me. I want to go out into the world and learn about it in a way I could never see before." Ingrid went in for a quick kiss before backing away again to continue. "I want to help you with your own mission. I can get information and interact with humans in a way that you can't right now. That is why I want Temporal magic. To send you pieces of our culture. To give you information that is needed to convince your own people. I want to help people on my side as well and sadly the only way for me is to increase my standing through skill. I…" Ingrid was cut off as they had ran out of time and had to get to the platform.
Ingrid wasn't a crier and she held herself until Nine said her goodbyes and told Ingrid that she could call her Sileen. "It was wonderful getting to know you Sileen. I have no idea when we will be able to meet again but I will promise to never forget you." Ingird felt bitter sweet about the goodbye. She didn't know how long it would be until she could help Sileen but in any case, Ingrid knew she would never say forget her.
The portal wasn't that intimidating after all Ingrid has been through. She was ready to go through when Sileen turned her around and kissed her. Ingrid closed her eyes and let it happen. A last kiss to send her off. It was nice Ingrid thought but as Ingrid took one last look at Sileen, she could see Sileen wink at her. There was something in that wink but she couldn't tell what it could be at the time.
There was no time to ponder what the wink met as it seems the coordinates that Ismette gave put them into the desert. A very hot desert. Luckily Ingrid was dressed pretty lightly. Benedetto pointed immediately to the army of thousands marching towards a compound. Oh for the love of the Pentad Ingrid thought. From the hired hands of the Doge to now thousands of soldiers. Could things get worst? Of course they could, they be dragons now.
Ingrid looked up and saw the froabases. They already deemed us to be the prey they were looking for. With the army over there in sight, Ingrid didn't want to do anything that would garner their attention. Trypano already made a hole to hide from them. Honestly, it seemed like the most reasonable option considering not being on the army's radar sounded nice. So I guess it was time to dive into the hole. Before going into the hole she whipped up the sand around her to create a blind spot for the dragons. Ingrid went down into the hole with less flare than Desmond as she was trying to create a dust storm to cover their stealth from the dragons. Ingrid did her best not to get wet though as she had no idea if the chainsaw would blow up if dunked into the water Trypano was making. As she made it to Trypano Ingrid smiled and said, "Thanks for the hole. Hopefully, the dust storm above gets them to waste a bit of time for us to escape." Another adventure awaits them in the desert now.
Location: Underground Base Interactions: Benedetto @Force and Fury
As much as Trypano's and Desmond's questions were frankly a better use of time, Ingrid decided that she wanted to indulge in some more light-hearted questions about their culture. Romance had always captured Ingrid's Imagination with how much it changed from place to place. Some seemed familiar, some seemed alien but in the end, it was a culture she wanted to learn about. Somehow that ended up with Ingrid hitting on Nine and Nine wanting to take a hand at teasing her. Ingrid would back off normally but this seems like a perfect distraction from all those thoughts trying to creep into her mind. The kiss happened, it was Ingrid's first. Well, that was nice. I think? It was kind of fun, crossed Ingrid's mind before the other Sirrahi seemed to have a mental explosion watching that. She knew they fed off of each other's energy but Ingrid couldn't help but chuckle to herself as they so boldly announced who they wanted to kiss.
Those bursts of energy throughout the night had finally come to an end and they had guided us to a bed chamber. It was interesting, to say the least. 1 large bed fit for the entire family line from Ingrid's point of view. She knew sharing a bed was common for the lower class but with how insanely advanced they are, Ingrid had to take its construction as a product of their culture. Ingrid thought for a moment about how she would feel sleeping with her whole family. Maybe they would have been closer. Maybe they would have actually cared about each other more than a single connection. Maybe. Ingrid lightly shook her head as she laid down, relegating those questions as wishful thinking. She made herself a target of her cousins and siblings with her RAS and let her guard down and became the 'slacker' of the family.
As the group settled down, Ingrid's mind was hostage to her thoughts like most nights except instead of beautiful theorems and visualizations there was only the death she caused. She knew she needed sleep but her essence was restless, it begged for some relief from the guilt she held. The wasted time, the cluelessness, the failure, the death sat on her chest paralyzing her thought. For what felt like hours she laid there just reliving the last day until her mind went still. I never thought I would have to kill someone like this. I knew one day I might have to defend my land or protect someone but I killed because I decided to come on this mission. I let myself get involved in killing. I didn't need to do this. My studies are going well and although my research for my family feels slow it wasn't something that felt unobtainable. So why? Ingrid felt anger well up in her chest as she berated herself. Why did you join this mission? Why did you think you could do this? Because I wanted to selfishly gain favor like a fool. I'm a fucking idiot for thinking that killing was worth whatever reward this will have. Those thoughts stung as Ingrid realized there was no promised reward. Nothing had been promised to her and even more so if this was a test then she would not be the first to receive any kind of reward.
Desmond found the Princess and acted as the general orchestrator of the mission. Penny went off on her own, gaining valuable information, and somehow stole the lantern and captured 2 ships! Benedetto saved the Princess after we failed to stop that damn atomic mage, put out the fire and made Ingrid realize that the rubble needed to be cleaned, and then saved us again after I failed to guide the shot into the Maria Nera after he literally stated he wouldn't help us again. God damn it! All I was able to do was distract the damn atomic mage and almost die twice to be saved by the person we were supposed to rescue! Just Fuck! Normally when this utterly frustrated she would get up and walk around but she didn't want to wake people up. She just had to lie there, getting more heated. She needed to put this away. She took a few deeper breaths to calm herself. Little by little she put herself in check.
Okay, Ingrid thought as she started to review her performance. Something that was drilled into her since childhood, all narrated in the voice of her disappointed father. You killed people. It was not how you imagined it to be but you chose this and you knew what was the mission. You can claim no innocence here. You were blinded by your greed for knowledge that you didn't even weigh the lives of others. You failed to live to your ideals and didn't hold yourself to the standards you set for yourself. Many were injured and 2 children died directly from your negligence. No matter the circumstances you should have been more cautious. You should have reached out to feel their metabolic energy. Anything but blow up the building as a distraction. You survived the atomic mage but that wasn't the term for success. Eliminating the enemy to keep the Princess safe was your goal. You are lucky that you get another chance and thank Benedetto that he was competent enough to make up for your failure. The children… Ingrid couldn't bring herself to think of them directly so she just skipped it to not risk her mental state again. You failed to even board the ship and had to have them hoist you onto the boat, shameful at face. You did well at getting some reaction out of the lamp. You failed to land the shot on the Maria Nera, you can only assign so much blame on Desmond who had no chance to actually guide the shot as it reached further. It was your mistake for failing to succeed in another critical moment. Once again thankfully Benedetto was strong enough to save you from what could have easily been death.
Ingrid stopped her evaluation as she believes that all things considered, the meeting of the Sirrhai is a good thing. There wasn't anything to say to herself besides 'Hey, maybe don't make out with some cute snake girl because you are fucked in the head at the moment.' That point actually stung as she realized that Nine probably also did it because she is fucked in the head at the moment. Fuck, Ingrid thought as she realized that shit was manipulative as hell to her at the moment, seems I have to apologize to Nine. I should have thought that she was just being excessively nice to make up for how she was feeling. Great job Ingrid, great job. Ingrid fell asleep quickly after that.
Sometime later, Ingrid was woken up by Nine crying, she was only half awake at the time so she isn't completely sure of what they discussed earlier but all she knew was that was apparently Nine's sister wasn't killed by us humans but by her own race. It was the Kasssseels, the person that the others had growled at earlier. Seems there was already some bad blood between the 2 groups. It was terrible that her sister was killed by them but frankly Ingrid didn't think revenge was a good option. If they have laws then revenge is rarely recognized as you get to more complex and progressive societies. Not only that, her entire family could be punished. The guilt that would be crushing. Nine seemed pretty determined to seek revenge and Ingrid could understand her wrath but she kept thinking it wouldn't turn out well.
As they made it to the weapon armory, Ingrid was quick to pick her chosen weapons. She had been quite a shot when she would test them at the mines and the production houses. She even hunted with them. Ingrid took the pistol as she wanted to have a free hand for the grenades. Ingrid looked towards Benedetto, she wanted to apologize for earlier and thank him but doing it here would feel disingenuous. At the same time, a part of Ingrid honestly thought Benedetto doesn't give a shit about that and it was better now than later. Ingrid approached him after he was already geared and prompted the conversation. "Hey Benedetto, I just wanted to say sorry. I shouldn't have placed my standards on someone I don't even know. I don't know your life. And I also wanted to say thanks, I couldn't beat the atomic mage. And no matter how weak he was to you, without your help the princess would have been taken. And even after that you still came to help when you said you wouldn't help again. You saved the mission then saved my life so thanks you, truly" Ingrid left after that. Whether Benedetto likes it or not he is getting a present from her when she gets back. Maybe a pendant? Or maybe some quality gauntlets with how much he likes to punch things.
"Yeah, he was pretty fuckin' tough," Benny replied. He shrugged. "Not tough enough, though, and he was a piece of shit anyways." He said nothing more. He wasn't sure why this girl who hated him was being all nice all of a sudden. People were never nice unless they wanted something. Maybe she just wanted the D, but he didn't know and it kind of unnerved him. He also didn't have magic right now and that was unnerving him more. He went to select his weapons: things that would protect him from death. Honestly, he didn't wanna do it. He had no magic and no reason to care about some snake girl, even if it was sad that she died. He was basically a prisoner of these reptiles, they were taking away his magic while smiling at him, and he hadn't even done anything 'bad' for once. As for Penny, she was stupid. She kept putting herself and others at risk and why was it his job to save her from herself? People either fuck up and learn or they fuck up and die. If you keep helping them, they never do either and just keep being a liability for you. Benny didn't wanna live with liabilities. Why should he?
Ingrid was taking time to purge herself of what she saw. She was trying to put what she saw behind her for at least the mission. But the reoccurring image of the dead children kept creeping into her mind. Her conscience wouldn't let her move past it that easily. She wanted to just go home, leave this island and this ever happened but it's not like she could. The alcohol nauseated her less than the images and by the time Desmond arrived Ingrid was dry heaving trying to get a handle on herself.
Ingrid didn't even flinch when the jacket, her guard was down and it wasn't until he tossed the hat on her head that she stiffened up to look at the person who draped her. It was Desmond, not a face Ingrid wanted to see, to be honest. Well, she didn't want to see anyone but having the mission lead come to check on her just told her she was taking too much time composing herself. She listened to what he had to say and a pathetic smile crossed her face as she turned her face away before saying "I know, I know." Ingrid held back tears as she continued, "I … I'm okay. Okay enough. I have to be. I'll head out to the ship after I clean myself up a bit." Ingrid wiped away the tears and let out a sigh like she was trying to refocus. She tied the jacket together to try and cover up a bit more and it was semi-successful. Her current outfit reminds her of the enemy's seductress after succeeding to go home with the naval captain. It was… a look and Ingrid might not have minded it if she wasn't in front of actual people. Hopefully either ship Penny captured has some pants for me, mine are barely holding on. I should figure out how to fix this stuff in the future. She took some of the water out of Desmond's waterskin with kinetic magic, Ingrid wasn't too keen on getting puke lips on her classmate's waterskin. Ingrid quickly rinsed her mouth out and started to make her way out of the alley. Ingrid turned back and said ready, handing back Desmond's hat.
Ingrid tried to make her way quickly to the water where she could make her way to the ship. Her embarrassment of walking in front of so many people in such a scandalous outfit was put on hold for the next moment of rest. She swears to Eshiran that she heard some fucker whistle at her. Whatever the case, when she made it to the water she cheated an ice disk big enough for 2 if Desmond wished to hop on. The ice sheet shot towards the ship, using the waves' movements to propel the forward. It would probably be difficult to stand if you were not used to the ice but Ingrid was more than used to the ice. Ingrid's homeland is mostly ice so this was like walking to her.
As Ingrid approached the ship she just simply did a kinetic jump onto the ship. But Ingrid didn't expect the ice sheet she made to be so thin after the travel to the ship. The water must have been warmer than she expected. The Ice broke underneath her and she went up maybe a foot and then fell into the newly created hole in the ice. She decide to just climb up the side where the ladder was. As she was climbing she slipped and hit her head on one of the steps, dazing her. Hitting the water brought her back to attention. She finally decided to just make a large ice structure to put her on top of a small ice block to get on the ship. As the block grew closer and closer to her goal, the ice flipped as a big wave hit it and sent her off it into the water again. Defeated she yells to Penny and Trypano for a rope. I can't even get on a ship. How humiliating…
Time: Evening Location: The desert Interactions: @FunnyGuy The Other Bandits Mentions: @hide on mana Kuroi Inventory: An old yellow cloak, an old set of clothes, a water skin, some smoked meats, a set of very old Metal Gauntlets, and an old Spear.
Uzul had been ready to take on all of the bandits to give Kuroi the space to slip through but they have completely stopped their pace, ensnaring them in battle. They don't seem to have enough battle sense to not challenge us. Very well, I shall not drag this out for longer than needed. An elf wielding light magic, they seem to not be ready for an actual battle. Her light magic will be akin to a beacon to any nearby monsters. I need to silence her. The same can be said about the newt over there. His lightning will produce sound and light. The orc seems to have gone through the rites and defeated a spider of some kind. He will be dangerous for Kuroi. My skin should be able to withstand his attacks in the meantime. The kitten and lizard aren't even worth fighting. They will most likely flee after I end their companions. Uzul greeted the group with an open hand, hiding the other.
The battles had started and it seems their heavier hitters have decided to mark Uzul as their query. Uzul was elated that they chose him. They are following the battle he imagined of them. It was unfortunate that I didn't properly deflect the bolts. The kitten won't be looking over here for an easy mark anymore. A shame. Uzul watched them try and flank him but it was frankly pathetic. The Dragonborn was slow but seemed assured he would cleave Uzul in half. He wasn't the worry at the moment. The speedy orc had leaped at him. Seems he is stupid or insane.
Uzul unclasped his cloak with his exposed hand, keeping eye contact with the ax-wielding newt, showing no fear or worry of his presence. From the other hand, Uzul prepared to launch his metal gauntlets at the Dragonborn. Uzul believed that the orc had killed a spider. His perception had probably raised from the spider, which is why he is comfortable leaping at me. He will be ready to adjust if I swing at my max range and then strike me leading to a critical strike from both sides. So I must keep my focus on the newt for now and trust that my experience will guide my strike when he finally drops his guard. As they closed in Uzul let his century of combat be his guide. Originally he was going to use his spear but he instinctually switched to his gauntlets right before he made his move.
Uzul crouched, briefly hiding his exposed hand. The once exposed hand was busily tensing up to throw 1 of the heavy metal gauntlet as the other hidden hand readied for the counter on the orc. The gauntlet had flown to the newt carrying the cloak with it, obscuring Uzul for but a moment. A powerful twist of his torso turned uzul the other way and he went for a high hook with the other metal gauntlet. Uzul hoped that his instincts hadn't failed him for he had to remove the obstacles between him and the princess's for he was their guide.
Ingrid listened to the princess's speech. Ingrid had heard so many boastful speeches of war recently that it just feels unoriginal. Spinning this to really be about the rightful ruler and painting your side as righteous was a classic. They were classic for a reason, they worked. Ingrid felt herself being moved by it slightly. Amelia's speech was reminiscent of some of the books Ingrid read as a child. Ooh! I wonder if she has read the True King of the South? Or maybe the Oriflamme Epic. Such good reads. As these warm feelings washed over Ingrid, she continued to clear the debris.
Ingrid's mind was on where Penny might be. With the sky lightening with the approaching day, Ingrid should be able to make out landmarks to look for her. Whatever the case they need to at least confirm if she is alive or not. Ingrid shuttered at the thought of what pirates might do to a captured girl. Well whatever, I need to finish clearing the debris before I can go look. There are probably more people trapped in the rubble. Ingrid took a look around, she would be here for a long time if she kept holding back. Now that she knows that the princess wasn't going to try to kill them at the moment, Ingrid could finally use her telekinesis fully.
It was mere moments after Ingrid started, A loud crack rippled in the air. It sounded like canons, Ingrid turned her head to prepare for battle but instead was met with the amplified voice of Penny! Ingrid felt a great deal of relief seeing she was alive. The 2 ships were surprising, to say the least. Where could she have gotten them Ingrid pondered for but a moment before returning to debris clearing now more at ease with one less dead teammate. I'm sure Penny is going to have a hell of a story to tell us. Ingrid went back to cleaning up the rubble.
As Ingrid got deeper into the rubble of the storehouse, the injuries got more severe. The most she could do was cauterize some of the injuries. They would need medical attention from an actual doctor. Then Ingrid finally uncovered someone who had already died. Ingrid paused. She had been removing debris when she came across what looked to be one of the beams that she blew up in the previous fight. As Ingrid the shards of wood she came across the mangled corpse of a young boy, maybe 13 if Ingrid were to guess. Ingrid seemed to shut down. That momentary relief of not having to fight the princess and Penny being alive no longer mattered. The sight of the body sent her into a haze. She kept cleaning the rubble when now she overcame an injured woman trying to get into what seemed like a crushed dresser even as the rubble covered her. She screamed over something about her child. Ingrid's blood ran cold. She didn't want to see what she had done but she had to. The sight was revolting. Her stomach turned and twisted and she felt horrid.
In another show of power, Ingrid began to draw in more energy than normal. She didn't want to be here she needed space. The rubble moved quickly overhead and was stacked in the growing pile. The Injured were moved to a separate area out of the way. Ingrid broke away to take a moment in the alley to try to calm herself. It wasn't long until she was spewing the alcohol she had drunk earlier trying to make a deal with Captain Xavier Falzon. Some tears were shed over what she had done. Ingrid wasn't trying to process her thoughts, more like expel them for the moment while the mission was still going. Ingrid will be there for a few minutes.
Ingrid wasn't naïve enough to think Benedetto would simply take this laying down but she didn't expect a rant. Benedetto's gathering energy was threatening but his words lacked the substance to make an impact on Ingrid at the moment. He seemed to be on the edge from even some resistance to his actions like a child being questioned. Ingrid couldn't make sense if this was truly his thoughts or emotions being enhanced by the fight he was in. Something wasn't right with him so Ingrid kept her guard up around him knowing she couldn't do anything against him.
As Benedetto made his exit, Ingrid was mostly done with the conversation. She expected to be threatened as he seemed to be a bit nutty but instead he ranted. Whatever the case, Ingrid had to go get the people out of the destroyed buildings. Ingrid started with the building that she destroyed. Carefully but with haste, Ingrid removed the debris revealing the injured. This situation wasn't dissimilar to the lessons she has been taught how to remove debris if a mine ever collapsed when she was inside or to help save the minors. Ingrid was grateful for all those boring classes in evacuation and rescue her family forced her to learn. Grimace took hold of her face as she revealed one gratuitous injury one after another. I have to at least try to help especially when I'm the one who caused their misfortune. Ingrid hadn't seen any of the dead yet by the time the princess came to.
Trypano gave some basic instructions to keep the ball rolling. Ingrid couldn't trust the princess with how big her gestures were and how she referred to the pentad. Ingrid has met many nobles and they are always worried about optics. Ingrid would bet the same about a princess. The gathering energy in the princess made Ingrid suspicious of her. Ingrid wasn't sure if her teammates saw the princess take off into the sky so easily before she was captured. Ingrid decided it best to keep a side-eye on the conversation while clearing the rubble. Ingrid noticed Desmond's message but she already is suspicious of the princess.
Ingrid only caught a glimpse of the Atomic mage's escape with the princess. The bullet had failed to find its mark and she had just spent some energy incinerating Trypano's enemy. Ingrid could grit her teeth as the princess was whisked away. Wvysen had died, Onarr could be dead, and she hasn't even seen Penny or Benedetto in this fight. The shame she would have felt about failing so terribly had little time to set in before a sickening crash could be heard from the Atomic mage's direction.
The Atomic mage was cracked into by none other than Benedetto, sending the princess falling and the captor whirling. Ingrid believed that the princess would be saved by Trypano for no more reason than a basic level of trust, after all, she managed during the fight. Benedetto was loud, screaming things that she could only imagine a power-crazed child to yell. A scary occurrence as Benedetto has proven that he is much stronger than the atomic mage and completely untouchable to where Ingrid was. Just how weak am I? was all Ingrid could think. She knew she wasn't trained in actual combat but this was a difference in pure use of the gift. Ingrid was completely outclassed by the Atomic mage and was a candle in the wind compared to Benedetto.
This realization of her weakness was only compounded when the Greyborn had shown up again to attack Desmond and he ended it without even a scratch. She realized that the only thing she could probably do here is put out the fires before they spread to the rest of the town. She absorbed the energy out of the fires to extinguish them then transferring the heat into a wave of hot air that made its way to the forest as a small heatwave. With the fire out, Ingrid watched as Benedetto return covered in blood that was obviously not his own. Ingrid grew meek in the presence of Benedetto, especially after he described this feat as nothing.
That meekness and self-doubt were replaced with scorn when he commented on Wvysen's death. To make fun of a comrade's death, especially when you were apparently spending time with a hooker was inconceivable. This scorn built and almost came to a head until Ingrid remembered just who she would be scorning. Benedetto, a child that killed the Atomic mage without issue and could very easily do the same to her. Scorn turned to rational cowardice. Ingrid was embarrassed by how spineless she was in front of someone stronger than her.
Trypano moved to start giving commands on what to do next. Oh right, Ingrid thought, this wasn't even the end of the mission they had to still dispose of the pirate captain and acquire the artifact. Trypano's instructions were met with just a nod as Ingrid made her way and felt the energies inside of the princess. There wasn't much in her but there was enough that it made Ingrid feel uncomfortable leaving in her. Ingrid place her hand on her head and slowly started to draw out the radiation, moving her hand down her body like she was carefully removing each affected part of her. Ingrid wondered how long would she would have to stay on this mission. Her confidence was at an all-time low. She couldn't see anyone raising as much as a word against Benedetto after what he showed but she was wrong. Desmond just told him to shut the fuck up without even so much as a smile to soften it.
Ingrid was immediately concerned for Desmond's wellbeing. Benedetto didn't seem to have much stability to him. Desmond was the one to go to the brothel with him originally so maybe this is more okay? More likely this was the norm and this was too much for Desmond to not say something. Ingrid agreed with him but was scared to speak up. The cowardice she was showing made her stomach turn. This wasn't like her. The first real challenge to her morals and she crumbled. Cowardice surged into disgust for herself. She couldn't stay silent. Ingrid stood up and looked towards Benedetto, still filled with fear but now had enough disgust in herself to have her act. "You should be respectful to the dead Benedetto. If not for your enemies then at least for your allies. Speaking ill of the deceased only lowers you to that of a scoundrel and you are not that." Ingrid's words came out clear with no trepidation to be found in them. If she showed weakness in her words then she would lose morally as well.
Suicharte
BlackRoseSiren
Izurich
Jumbus
jasbraq
A Lowly Wretch
Force and Fury
Emeth
