A Merchant's Investment
The words came almost casually.
Felberta crossed one leg over the other beneath the table. Then she leaned back slightly, settling into her chair as if they were discussing something completely ordinary.
"I just want to start a little business here."
Brinda's eyes narrowed.
A business?
After revealing her identity?
After showing that she had a butler who could overwhelm her before she even had the chance to cast a spell?
The whole situation was becoming stranger by the moment.
Felberta didn't seem bothered by Brinda's suspicion.
She simply continued.
"You see, I'm growing tired of the traveling merchant's lifestyle."
Her voice was light.
Almost playful.
But there was something beneath it.
Something quieter.
Something sincere.
That small trace of honesty made it difficult for Brinda to dismiss her outright.
Felberta didn't sound like someone looking for a place to make a quick profit before moving on.
