It starts on one of Mercedes few, precious, quieter days in Pearl Shoals. She had been roaming the local markets, quietly counting the coins in her hand as she adjusted her budget for the day. Raised voices caught her attention, drawing her attention to a small jewellery store at the east end of the market. Curiosity got the better of her, her feet led her forward without a second thought towards the stall in question. Despite the variety of trinkets, keepsakes and accessories on sale, a tall blond gentleman with foppish hair had his eyes set on another prize. The shopkeeper's brooch.
"You know, there's plenty of merchandise for sale," Mercedes says, smiling although something about the customer made her skin crawl. She maintains a cheery disposition despite her personal feelings, hoping to assuage the man's anger. "If it's for sale, it'll be on the table with a price tag."
His skin turns ruddy in the afternoon light. A withering look is turned her way, one that would make a less brave woman shrink away. Mercedes however, is truthfully sick and tired of rich, powerful men thinking the world owes them something.
"And I want the brooch, girl," he spits at her, "why don't you go find your master and make yourself useful."
"There's no need to be so rude," Mercedes retorts with a frown, "I want a parfait but alas, this lady isn't selling them. It would be silly of me to get mad at her. Perhaps you should look elsewhere?"
The man's hand moves to his belt, there's a flash of metal in the sunlight and Mercedes immediately jumps back in horror. He snarls as he steps towards her, expression causing her blood to turn to ice.
What she wouldn't do for a knight in shining armour right now...
@justicespeared (I need a hero!)