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[color=8882be][b]Event:[/b][/color]Nothing in Particular
[hr][hider=A Monster Unlike Any Other]

Ingrid tended to her and Niallus's wounds, leaving other Valerian to the capable hands of Evil Eye. She had but a moment to reflect on why Linlin let the fighter go? She had produced power that could best even her own yet Linlin just told her to go home. [color=8882be][i]Why?[/i][/color] Ingrid thought to herself, [color=8882be][i]What if she comes back but with Temporal skills or some other magic that can kill you later. What about Niallus or me? Will I be strong enough when she rears her head again?[/i][/color] And like that things became clearer.

Ingrid had seen it wrong. They had won. It would be easier to just remove her now, nip the girl before she can blossom into a threat but what would that do? It was cruel. It was unnecessary. Linlin wanted change. She held no ill will so she accepted they would most likely come for her. It was surreal for Ingrid, someone who struggled accepting that Traveler agents would target her no matter what. 

Linlin did not care. 

Then the world braked to a monster. Things only seen in exaggeratory drawings. A monster that was so large it took up the side. It ripped through the veil, similar to how her dagger would but it eerily different to what she does. And spine chillingly enough it carried the same miasma that wicked dragon did.

Tentacle after tentacle started to move into their world. It was clear to all those on the battlefield that was the new target. From Student to Blackguard. From Elder to Progenitor, it was the target so much that the summons brought forth by Ash even turned against it. It felt almost instinctual that they all were stunned by it. And that is when the Traveler struck it. The mysterious figure that Ingrid presumed to be the people chasing Hugo though timelines, appeared and with a few words rose everyone to action.

Friend or foe was indistinguishable as everyone followed the Traveler's lead. Attacks of such great magnitude that they felt indescribable were launched out. The Emperors launched an attack so long it left them defenseless on the ground. Then Wu Long, leader of a faction of the revolutionaries let the chance go to help defend. No one had enemies with each other because somewhere they all knew that whatever they had against each other was petty in comparison to the end of the world.

That was if you had any human to you left. The Progenitor struck the Traveler instead of helping. He would use the end of the world to enrichen himself. But it seemed his enemies knew that he was the embodiment of greed, that nothing was too dastardly for him. The fight rather quick as they needed to stave off the octopus or squid. It seemed one of the combatants, Sleeping Carp was his brother and had been ready to end it from the start. This powerful being was brought to nothing not by overwhelming intellect or some hidden element.

No it was to a simple illusion. The ancient evil was toppled by his own confidence that gave his brother room to strike with the legendary blade, White Ripple. There was no rewinding, just an ethereal fading that took the Progenitor and Sleeping Carp. It was over. 

The Titan that descended had taken out mountains with single, accidental swings of a tentacle. Everyone pushed themselves further and further. Attack after attack and it wasn't enough. That moment of distraction from the 3 strongest was enough to let it descend into ours fully. It was over until a cluck rung out across the sky, across all of Retan.

Feathers that matched the color of the void but with the luster of polished steel, Green and red spurted out from the tail to create a demanding accent. It stood as large as the Titan Squid and it launched a beam so strong that the Titan shifted, wounds showed on its body, and it immediately started retreating. Luck had shifted for the denizens of this world and fate was rewritten by a majestic chicken. [color=8882be][i]Maybe the Darhanics were on to something.[/i][/color]

More attacks were thrown, Ingrid dove into the depths of her power gifted by Ahn-Shune. And launched an attack that could match that of the strongest Dragons with the help of Abdel's immaculately trained Skugvars. Attack after attack was launched and somehow, someway, the Titan fell. It's body left on the ground but it was obvious it wouldn't stay as it started to decompose. Nothing more than a curious note with a new guest among them.

Someone Ingrid had seen and been slightly scared of. The Ice King, Sixth God of the Darhanics, Vashdal. And now apparently the Blackguard Chicken? In a way it reminded Ingrid how Shune-Zept would change his form though it seems the Ice Kings cares more about what form he takes. The conversations were small and not very meaningful. All that was gotten out of this was that there is a stage far beyond them. But it seemed they were being prepped for it somehow. Not to inspirational other than Ingrid wants to tell Zarina.
[/hider][hider=Rewards]

Ingrid had agreed to become a sanguinaire. She didn't thank too much on it. She accepted it because she was sick of it deep down. She tried and tried to be better and she was. She trusted for no return. She avoided doing anything to harm them and it didn't matter. Ingrid was kept out of the loop the entire time by those who mattered. She was and still is bitter. At the very least she can maybe sway them away from Revidian and towards Eskand and Perence. 

It came time for the spoils of their choices. They actually made it through it all and they were at the end. There was many spoils and what caught Ingrid's eyes were brought to only one prize. A hammer. The Hammer of Dami-Zept. Ingrid made her way to it but the church boy made it there at the same time. The conversation was short and a deal was made. For his land and counsel later on, Ingrid would not contest the hammer.

Feeling biffed that multiple people took multiple rewards, she went to go claim one as her own. With some issues with Valerian, Ingrid decided to take his blade. He had made one mistake when they fought Golden Monkey, that was only worth some warning. But what he did when they fought the Dragon was fully unforgiveable.

The foes they faced required a united front and he broke that. He defended the enemy and nearly got them killed for it. Valerian was of great strength and they needed everything to fend off the dragon. He defended him and he still was put in their midst. She wanted to settle it quickly with a simple fist fight but instead he insulted her and walked like a coward. 

Eventually they fought and Ingrid lost. Simple as that. Ingrid rose and the grudge stayed down. She didn't like him but for her anything against them was done. She lost the sword she took but that was okay, it was secondary to begin with.

Soon they were brought one last task by Laughing Squid was to gather the action figure. They handed them in and a sacred groove opened. Different than the grove from the Pentad. These were more lined and orderly. They let look and judged what you have earned. It was unique compared to the Pentad's version. 

Ingrid went first to a decaying tree. For a moment it seemed bountiful but then it withered, something Ingrid would later understood it didn't believe she had the correct balance. She spoke to Rikard, both of them seeing the fruit. Ingrid tried to give some words of advice having made so many mistakes, even now she unknowingly made one.

Ingrid made her way to the first one. Mint and chiles. And for she could see both. She decided to take both but looked at the one that Maura had seemed disappointed at and she got only 1. This time it was easy to tell what it represented and Ingrid felt some disappointment.

After they all chose, they made it back to school. Just the start of what was going to happen
[/hider][hider=Cutting the Snake]
The fight in ReTan was intense and somehow, every student that went survived the end of the world back to school. Ingrid adjusted to the changes in her life, and there was one change she needed to address. 

A message was sent to Niallus, not uncommon for them, but it had a different air to it. No more of the airy flirting that Ingrid would write to him, it was… lacking? Still very much personable, but it was hard to place. Maybe it was about business or someone was rude. Either way, Ingrid headed over to her dorm for a visit. Walking through the halls like normal until he got there. 

Unlike the normal servant answering, Ingrid was there to greet him. A welcomed surprise but odd. She quickly guided Niallus to her room. There was an odd feeling in the air, Niallus picked up on it. He wondered if it was serious, since she wouldn’t look at him properly. If it was something to discuss what happened in ReTan that’s understandable, a lot of shit happened there. [color=3d5a88]“Ingrid, is there something wrong? You don’t seem to be yourself.”[/color] He asked her.  

Ingrid turned to him, awkwardly scratching the back of her head, [color=8882be]"There is."[/color] Ingrid tried to find a way to be a little less awkward, but it had to come out, [color=8882be]"Niallus, I think-"[/color] Ingrid stopped to take a seat near her desk,[color=8882be] "-been thinking a lot. About ReTan, about the future, about us. I think back to when we went on that date and the night I let you into my room. It was so fun, so… nice."[/color] Ingrid smiled warmly on those memories, only to frown. [color=8882be]"I think we shouldn't date any more,"[/color] Ingrid gulped and looked at Niallus. 

Niallus was taken aback by it. [color=3d5a88]“You, You’re wanting to break up?”[/color] he frowned at this, then cleared his voice. He didn’t expect this from her, but he could tell this wasn’t easy for her to come out and say it to him. Kneeling in front of her. Looking at her. He wanted to hold her hand, but she didn’t want to, so he didn’t push her.[color=3d5a88]”Why? I thought everything was great with us.[/color] his tone was a mixture of concern and confusion.

[color=8882be]"It was! But not?"[/color] Ingrid struggled to put it in words.[color=8882be] "I am just not ready, you know?"[/color] Ingrid fiddled with her stiletto, trying to figure out how to explain it. [color=8882be]"I just wasn't ready for what we are. Ipte is next year, and our families are going to put a lot of pressure on us. I don't [I]feel[/I] right being your significant other. I [I]thought[/I] I would. I really did. But it never went far enough."[/color]

[color=3d5a88]"Ingrid…"[/color] Given how long they have been together now, it may only be a matter of time before their parents know about them dating. He moves closer to her, to try to help her feel less uncomfortable about the situation. [color=3d5a88]"How come you didn't want to talk about this?"[/color] He kinda understood the reason behind her not asking him about it. In case, he took it the wrong way. 

[color=8882be]"What was I supposed to say? Sorry, I don't think I have the same feelings? I tried to wait and see if they would come. But they didn't."[/color] And there he was trying to comfort her, it was kind, but she didn't need it. Not from him right now. [color=8882be]"I care for you Niallus, you are a wonderful friend. But I don't love you. Not like you love me at least."[/color] She was bitter with herself, she knew she only desired to be wanted, yet she fell into thinking it was more than that.  [color=8882be]"We got closer, and I never truly stopped to consider what I was ready for. You call me dear, honey, and love, and I can't say the same. Not genuinely at least."[/color]

Niallus paused for a few seconds, taking time to understand. He felt bitter about it, more than that, he was hurt by what she was saying. She never loved him in all the months that they were dating. He opened his mouth, trying to speak, but nothing came out. He tried his hardest not to let it get to him, but it slowly was. He tried again to speak. [color=3d5a88]"I know that you tried, I really do. I do love you, Ingrid, but if you don't feel the same,"[/color] he moved away from her, [color=3d5a88]"It would be selfish of me, I'd rather not force you into something that would make you feel uncomfortable."[/color] He says to her.

Ingrid thought, no she knew, that he was not the selfish one. [color=8882be][I]He had always offered to be there. An ear when I wanted to complain, a companion on lonely nights, and a stalwart defender whenever we faced a foe.[/I][/color] Niallus had his issues, but- [color=8882be]"You weren't selfish, Niallus. I was. I came to you looking for comfort and in that I found something I shouldn't have taken advantage of, your love,"[/color] she paused to look at him. At his hurt face. [color=8882be][I]Just how much pain have I caused to the closest person in my life?[/I][/color] Ingrid thought. [color=8882be]"I went past the fun and games we played when my feelings weren't there."[/color]

Niallus thoughts and feelings were a complete mess, he didn't know what to think at this point, even if Ingrid was blaming herself for this, it still didn't make him feel any better. This hurt him a lot deeper than anything he felt before. He could see Ingrid looking at him from the corner of his eye. When looking straight at her, he could see that tears were building up. [color=3d5a88]"Ingrid, you hurt me more than anything I've felt before in the past. You broke my heart, betrayed my trust as my closest friend. If it was anyone else, I'd want nothing to do with them."[/color] his usual smile wasn't there when he took a moment before speaking. [color=3d5a88]"However, because of our relationship before this, it'll be a while before I can see you as a friend once again. As well as trust you."[/color]

[color=8882be]"Thank you for even considering it, I'll gather your things later, and you can come and get them later."[/color] Ingrid said, not making eye contact any more. She seemed deeply ashamed of what had happened. 

[color=3d5a88]"I'll sort your things out your thing too"[/color] Niallus stood up, letting out a depressed sigh, still feeling like complete shit. Not looking at Ingrid, [color=3d5a88]"Was there anything else?"[/color]

Ingrid paused, [color=8882be]"No…"[/color] Ingrid then corrected, [color=8882be]"Yes,"[/color] Ingrid said. [color=8882be]"I, I understand your probably want nothing to do with me right now but I still care for you and if there is anything you need, anything you want, I'm here. And I'll always be."[/color] Ingrid strained her voice as if she was so desperately trying to come off as genuine.

Niallus shook his head. Anger was slowly building; he didn't want to flip out on her, even though he should. He took a deep breath, then exhaled. [color=3d5a88]"You were one of the few people I trusted. I wanted to tell you something, something that you should know, about my family. but now…"[/color] he trails off. [color=3d5a88]"It doesn't matter."[/color] trying to smile but it's a weak one at best. He wondered if she knew how much he was hurting from this. [color=3d5a88]"No you're right, with all of this, it would be best to not see each other for a while. Don't want to cause more damage."[/color] he chuckles a little [color=3d5a88]"It's funny, Maura kept saying, she's just using you, she'll only end up hurting you. I always told her she was wrong, I defended you from all the negative things she said to me about you, saying that you were trying your hardest to be a better person. I Never imagined that she would be partly right."[/color] His anger started building once more, he wanted to just leave so he opened the door, walking off, not looking back.

There was a pain in Ingrid's heart. Her hand gripped uncomfortably at her dress, and a small quiver on her lip. Niallus lashed out at the first thing she trusted him with. The only person she trusted that with. Her mind raced with ways to lash back but it came to halt. [color=8882be]"I understand that you're hurting,"[/color] she stiffened her lip and loosened her grip, [color=8882be]"and I understand that what you said was your anger. Just know that I am here for you Niallus."[/color] She waited to hear the door slam as he finally left. Ingrid held a hand to her chest as she quietly wept. She knew it was going to hurt but that last part was more than she could've imagined. 
[/hider][hider=Settling]
Maura had received a letter the week prior to a proposed meeting at the Eskandish Grove outside Ersand'Ernise. It was a simple invitation from Ingrid and there was even an offer to prepare travel accommodations if Maura wished.

Whichever option Maura chose, she would be greeted by Ingrid at the nearest road to the grove.  She was adorn in lighter wear and one could make out some boots underneath her dress. 

[color=8882be]"I'm glad that you could make it Maura,"[/color] Ingrid gave a polite smile. 

Maura's smile was polite and genuine as she manoeuvred her rollerchair toward Ingrid. [colour=C0C0C0]"The invitation was quite a delightful surprise,"[/colour] she mentioned, her hands resting on a finely decorated box. [colour=C0C0C0]"Choosing a gift for someone who seems to have everything proved to be quite the challenge. However, we hope this will find your favour."[/colour]

The lid of the small box began to open gradually, revealing a tiny wooden hand that emerged through the gap. With precise movements, it undid the latch and pushed the lid open, revealing a small marionette. The miniature figure sat up, gazing toward Ingrid, and then offered a playful wave in her direction. The marionette rose within its container, its movements a mixture of slight awkwardness and practised finesse. If one squinted and used their imagination, they might notice a resemblance to Ingrid – dark "hair," glasses, and a silhouette that bore a resemblance.

[colour=C0C0C0]"We're still practising the art form, but we thought you might enjoy having your very own personalized Min-grid. One of it’s kind,"[/colour] Maura explained, her own hand making a gesture as if the doll was encouraging Ingrid to pick her up.

[color=8882be][i]That's quite... Nice?[/i][/color] It was a perplexing gift. Was it suppose to be a slight or just a hobby she had gotten into it. Either way, no reason to care, hopefully today will handle things. Ingrid brought no gift with her but she graciously accepted the it, as odd as it was. [color=8882be]"Is this a new craft that pricked your interest or an old one coming back into focus?"[/color] Ingrid briefly acquired but moved on relatively quickly.

They traveled into the grove, the land seemed cared for but overall was left to grow as Oraff designed. Smaller animals made home here and with less people around, it wasn't odd to see tracts of some deer. Ingrid walked through it quietly, observing and embracing nature. 

Eventually a smaller clearing was met and Ingrid turned to take a seat on a log. [color=8882be]"How familiar are you with Eskandish traditions?"[/color]

Maura's smile held a touch of solemnity as she observed Ingrid's reaction to the gift. She responded, [colour=C0C0C0]"My mother was a Maestra. Lately, we've been investing more time in this craft, maybe as a way to feel closer to her."[/colour]

As Ingrid inquired about her familiarity with Eskandish culture, Maura shook her head gently from side to side. [colour=C0C0C0]"Sadly, our knowledge on the subject is not as comprehensive as we would like it to be. Would you be willing to share some insights about it?"[/colour]

Ingrid nodded, [color=8882be]"Eskandish follow the Pentad but we practice differently. For us, worship is less about solemn worship in a church but active participation."[/color] She looked around as the grove as if to point to it. [color=8882be]"For Ipte we paint and frolic to know love for nature and neighbor. For Shune we teach others our trades and offer our professions for the betterment of ourselves and community. For Oraff we appreciate nature, go on journeys, plant and flourish nature. For Eshiran we celebrate victor, remember loss, and play sports."[/color] Ingrid paused for Dami, taking a breath out. 

[color=8882be]"For Dami we air grievances. Speak frank to settle things. For the year is Dami, I would like to air things out with you Maura."[/color] Ingrid looked at Maura expectedly. 

Maura winced slightly, her imagination conjuring up an image of Ingrid standing there and relentlessly berating her for the next few hours. Despite this, she did her best to maintain her composure. She had hoped that her efforts, like the personalized gift, would help mend things between them, but it appeared that Ingrid had her own way of handling the situation. Taking a breath, Maura steeled herself and looked directly at Ingrid. [colour=C0C0C0]"Go ahead, lay it on me."[/colour]

[color=8882be]"Well alright, let's start from the top."[/color] Ingrid scratched her head before sitting up, [color=8882be]"When we worked together for the snowsweeper, I felt I had genuine reason to worry,"[/color] she paused to put her thoughts in avincian, [color=8882be]"War. War was still being talked by my countryman. They wanted it so bad. They were ready for it too. So when I found the king to be there and having trusted the vial before, I panicked and wanted assurance. My country couldn't survive the perrench turning on us. Revidia used us once, what would stop Torragon from doing the same."[/color] she stood up rather quickly. [color=8882be]"But then you turned it on me. I squeezed, you yelped and then berated me, told me to strip my dress and glasses to give it to that hussy Idun. You know I didn't squeeze too hard. You should have known my worries were justified."[/color]

She took a breath, Ingrid knew in retrospect she was the bigger offender. She was hurt sure but it's best to start with the first pain then hold it in front of Dami, [color=8882be]"I'm sure you have so much to say on that?"[/color]

Maura's frown deepened as her frustration with Ingrid grew. Ingrid's choice of closing words only irritated her further. [colour=C0C0C0][i]"I’m sure you have so much to say on that?"[/i][/colour] Maura retorted with a dry tone, her expression unamused. [colour=C0C0C0]"We came here for an Eskandish-style airing of grievances, and you've already chosen belittlement before we've even begun?"[/colour] Her raised eyebrow conveyed her clear dissatisfaction.

[colour=C0C0C0]"Maybe the core issue, Ingrid, is your lack of self-awareness,"[/colour] Maura continued, her voice tinged with a mix of exasperation and concern. She pinched the bridge of her nose in frustration. [colour=C0C0C0]"You're not unintelligent, we know that. But you state facts without context, without asking yourself 'Why?' For instance, did you ever think about, 'Why did I ask you to take off your dress so someone else could wear it?', like, to take your role in the plan because you wanted out?"[/colour]

[colour=C0C0C0]"About being right to worry? We were in the midst of a plan to rescue a Snowsweeper. All of us were concerned! And we were making great progress, until you threatened to jeopardize it all."[/colour] Maura threw her hands up in exasperation. [colour=C0C0C0]"You talk about having the right to worry, but your actions threatened to put weeks of preparation and thousands of Magnus on the line all because of a 'worry.' We were panicking, Ingrid, and your actions almost derailed everything we had worked so hard for. All our efforts were heading down the drain."[/colour]

[colour=C0C0C0]"You gave this eloquent speech about global politics, but you forget that we were your friend, Ingrid. We weren't just some random Torragonese girl in a rollerchair. Or was that truly how you saw me?"[/colour] Maura's gaze turned stern as she looked at Ingrid. [colour=C0C0C0]"We would have done whatever we could to keep you safe. Yet instead of speaking to me or trusting me, you physically grabbed me, squeezed me hard, and threatened me. You treated me like an enemy. And you deserved to be called out for your actions.”[/colour]

[colour=C0C0C0]"Even with all that said and done, we succeeded. The plan was nearly flawless otherwise. We saved the Snowsweeper, King Rouis is still reigning in good health, and you emerged unharmed,"[/colour] Maura's gaze turned more imploring as she locked eyes with Ingrid. [colour=C0C0C0]"But you never apologized. Not once did you say you were sorry."[/colour]

Maura's tone softened a touch as she urged Ingrid to reflect. [colour=C0C0C0]"Just... think, Ingrid. Don't speak. Take a few moments to truly consider all of this. That's all we're asking for. If you realize you were wrong, an apology would go a long way. We would forgive you."[/colour]

She expected this. She wanted this. But Maura wanted to have her take a moment so Ingrid waited, reflecting on it. After a few minutes she spoke, [color=8882be]"I never saw you as a friend. Friendly, yes. But a friend? No, you were someone close to Ayla. Neither was Zarina, again just friendly."[/color] Ingrid told Maura. It wasn't to be harsh but to be honest. 

Ingrid felt a little awkward, [color=8882be]"I only bring this up because I have pain there and obviously you do to,"[/color] Ingrid gave a light smile. [color=8882be]"More than me,"[/color] she admitted. [color=8882be]"Saying sorry and making up when hurt is still there is building on the mud or on shifting sands. It won't last."[/color] Ingrid sat back on the log in front of Maura. [color=8882be]"I want to mend things with you. And this is how I know how."[/color] Ingrid looked Maura in the eyes, [color=8882be]"I am at fault there. I hurt you and ignorantly forgot what was at stake for us all. I threatened you. And for all of that, I'm sorry Maura Mercador."[/color]

Maura maintained a quiet presence, allowing Ingrid the space to express herself fully. She offered a nod of understanding as Ingrid's words came to an end, her hands gently interlocked as she absorbed the sentiment shared. Taking in a deliberate, deep breath, she finally responded, her voice measured and calm. [colour=C0C0C0]"Your apology is acknowledged, Miss Ingrid Penderson."[/colour]

Surveying their surroundings with a hint of curiosity, Maura's attention returned to Ingrid. [colour=C0C0C0]"With the ritual concluded, might there be a suitable spot for us to set up a picnic and enjoy the afternoon?"[/colour]

Ingrid was relieved it was accepted, feeling a weight off her shoulders. She wished to continue it to talk about their time in ReTan but decided against it. Maura had been willing to do it Ingrid's traditional way when the fault was on Ingrid. It was the smallest sign of respect she could give Maura to forgive the way her culture would like. 

[color=8882be]"There is,"[/color] Ingrid confirmed as she stood up from the log. She wiped herself off of any bark or moss that may have came with her dress. [color=8882be]"This is more the general area for worship. But people spread out to their own areas if it feels right, I have one that I enjoy."[/color] Ingrid paused, [color=8882be]"Thank you for the gift Maura, truly. I've tried your way before and all it got me was threatened and then punched."[/color]

The uphill path there was a little challenging for Ingrid before her new found strength but would be very difficult for Maura without the assistance of magic. Once they got there though it flattened and overlooked what seemed to be a sharper drop-off into the wider forest. There was flowers strewn about and a berry bush or 2 that were blossoming. The view overlooked the forest like you were above it. As they arrived, Ingrid drew in some of the ambient heat and light and channeled that into the plants, having them grow ever so slightly. 

She took a seat on a nice little tuff of grass, [color=8882be]"Here it is,"[/color] Ingrid opened her arms to show her little spot. 

Maura slightly tilted her head, attentive as Ingrid shared her thoughts about doing things 'her' way and facing threats, even a punch. The story felt cryptic, as if it held a deeper meaning that wasn't immediately evident to Maura. She debated internally whether to delve deeper into this or let Ingrid's words stand on their own.

Regarding the uphill path, Maura was well-acquainted with such challenges, making use of her kinetic and binding magic to create a smoother incline for herself. Though it was a slow process, she considered it an investment in accessibility that future travelers might find beneficial.

As her gaze settled on the picturesque view, including the captivating effect Ingrid had infused into the plants, Maura found herself truly appreciating the tranquility of the location. She couldn't help but comment, [colour=C0C0C0]"This spot is undeniably serene and lovely. It seems you've spent a good deal of time curating this place."[/colour]

Ingrid looked out at the scenery with Maura. She found it with Niallus a few months back but they don't come here together no more. [color=8882be][I]I don't even know if he comes to the grove at all anymore,[/I][/color] Ingrid reflected on their time searching for this spot, getting lost in that thought.

[color=8882be]"It took weeks and at [I]least[/I] 2 dresses,"[/color] she admitted as she went to take a seat on the ground. [color=8882be]"Never thought I be having a picnic with you at my hidden spot,"[/color] Ingrid smiled before she started to try and figure out what Maura had brought for a picnic. [color=734960][I]Was it to be the basics? Flashing with the warmth of the Torrogan? Maybe a bit of cloudberry jam?[/I][/color] Ingrid excited herself for the reveal. 

[colour=C0C0C0]"Oh, did you not prepare anything?"[/colour] Maura's fingers interlocked as she fixed Ingrid with an expectant gaze. It was just long enough to create a faint sense of unease before she revealed a playful grin. [colour=C0C0C0]"Lucky for you, we come prepared."[/colour]

From beneath her chair, Maura produced a bag, clearly a convenient storage spot. [colour=C0C0C0]"We did a bit of asking around, and we've put together something we think you'll enjoy."[/colour] With care, she began to lay out an assortment of items on a blanket spread between them. Containers and clay flasks emerged, along with a pitcher of Sangria meant for sharing. [colour=C0C0C0]"We noticed your interest when we discussed it earlier, so we've brought along some Gazpacho, a cold soup from Torragona, for you to try."[/colour] As the soup was poured into two cups, she continued, [colour=C0C0C0]"And since you're Eskandish, we took inspiration from Smørbrød for a mix 'n match."[/colour] Maura indicated a selection of different boxes. [colour=C0C0C0]"There's rugbrød, gravlaks, leverpostej, and geitost cheese in your style. And then, from my background, we have pão de água, Bacalhau, Patê de marisco, and queijo de Azeitão."[/colour]

Drawing attention to the final box, which had a distinct appearance from the others, Maura's expression brightened. [colour=C0C0C0]"Ayla contributed these,"[/colour] she said as she opened the box, revealing Skillingsboller, Pastéis de nata, and Churros, accompanied by an array of chocolate and lingonberry dips. It was an impressive array that integrated elements from Torragonese, Segonian, and Eskandish cuisine, all set out for their shared enjoyment.
[/hider]