[center]
[h1][color=f49ac2]Amaris Marivaldi[/color][/h1]
[sub]Interacting with: [color=c0c0c0]Benjamin[/color] [@Bert Macklin] and [color=f7976a]Varis[/color] [@Achronum]
[/sub]
[/center]

“[color=f49ac2]I used to hope for the same thing, Count.[/color]” Amaris stated, finally breaking her silence. She would be among the first to admit that she had attended this particular school with more than a few assumptions, only to turn around and have those expectations completely shattered. It hadn’t taken very long at all for Ryner’s own sister to be knocking down her door to drag away a mage accused of ties to a treasonous association; a mage that by the princess’ own claims had to have been approved by her own hand. That same hand had taken a blade to the countess’ face to reveal a family secret she herself had never even heard whispers of. While she understood the position in which Ryner stood, those experiences had forced an altered perception of someone she held in such high regard.

“[color=f49ac2]Or would you suggest that our sovereign leadership was aware the school was being targeted by terrorists and simply allowed an attack to happen? Information slips through the cracks, miscalculations can be made… I’d rather believe in a lack of perfection than intentional malice in regards to Her Royal Highness, wouldn’t you?” The Countess questioned Benjamin before smiling sweetly, eyes closed to hide the brief flicker of personal doubt that sparked through them. “[color=f49ac2]But you’ve made it quite clear you are the expert on your own mage. I suppose we’ll have to place similar trust in you that such a silly rumor is just as you say; a misunderstanding warped by public need to gossip.[/color]”

Amaris had to fight a cringe as Varis began to address her, already dreading the interaction she was being dragged into. Fortunately for her, however, the presented topic was far simpler than she had expected from the Count; so much so that her smile never faltered.

“[color=f49ac2]I’ve been informed on the matter, yes. An interesting selection to be sure, but I’ve taken the arrangement under consideration. Was there something you wished to contribute or simply following up?[/color]”