Oh I'm in pieces, it's tearing me up, but I know
His inquiries are deeply appreciated in ways he likely doesn't realize. The Outlanders have long had the habit of intruding on traditions, customs, and opinions the Naturals have. Usurping their lifestyles with their own demands and choices. Things are changing slowly, but his desire for her opinion is met with gratitude, and that inspires honesty. "The college was created on the assumption that people need to be taught like young pupils, and even if the motivation was pure the name alone is discouraging. To many Naturals, it's degrading to have an Outlander come and set up shop to educate them on things they either already know, or to imply that their past ways - magical or menial - are somehow inadequate. It was only made worse by the class setting and speeches." A sentiment that is not hers alone. She has her thumb to the pulse of the lives in the Grounds, to the Naturals who stubbornly return to her apothecary instead of seeking out the infirmary or the college. Neighbors, friends, and customers. "If you wanted to set up an alternative, including at least one Natural citizen from wherever you're setting up. Learning and respecting the regional healing practices, and implementing them with your customers. Slowly introducing new things, and offering personal education in a private setting on a case-by-case basis so that they don't feel pressured or embarrassed surrounded by their peers." Realizing she's likely saying too much, she flushes high in her cheeks, but she's too well-bred and willful to let it show more than that. "And more than anything, do not set up in an area where you will impact the surrounding local healers too deeply. Stealing their business will create many enemies that will withhold their talents and knowledge from you."
The flush only deepens at his compliment, but pride shines fiercely in her blue eyes above the wide, predatory grin she displays. Now that she is more confident in her magic, more powerful, she is starting to think bigger plans about the Grounds. About Halo. Helping her people and the land alike. When she has bartered the book out from the old woman's grasp, she happily returns to Nate's side, humming a noise of intrigue as she takes his offered arm to let him lead her onward. Already she has secured such a fantastic find, but she'll take any other hidden gems he can direct her to. The man they approach seems to know Nate, and the large bag he pulls out makes Evie's eyes gleam like a starving fox. She strides forward confidently to meet him, pulling out her own side bag with her tradable items as she strikes up conversation with the merchant.
The flush only deepens at his compliment, but pride shines fiercely in her blue eyes above the wide, predatory grin she displays. Now that she is more confident in her magic, more powerful, she is starting to think bigger plans about the Grounds. About Halo. Helping her people and the land alike. When she has bartered the book out from the old woman's grasp, she happily returns to Nate's side, humming a noise of intrigue as she takes his offered arm to let him lead her onward. Already she has secured such a fantastic find, but she'll take any other hidden gems he can direct her to. The man they approach seems to know Nate, and the large bag he pulls out makes Evie's eyes gleam like a starving fox. She strides forward confidently to meet him, pulling out her own side bag with her tradable items as she strikes up conversation with the merchant.
A heart that's broke is a heart that's been loved
EVIE
