Marlow’s Bright Futures Symposium
Date: 2025-06-22 16:02
(Marlow’s Bright Futures Symposium)
[Sun Jun 22 2025]
A Grand Oak–Paneled Study Hall/span
The study area occupies a generous corner of the ground floor, furnished with
heavy oak tables arranged in neat rows beneath tall windows that admit
filtered daylight through aged glass. Each table accommodates six readers
comfortably, with green-shaded banker’s lamps providing pools of warm light
across the polished wood surfaces. Built-in shelves line the walls from floor
to the vaulted ceiling, their dark wood laden with reference volumes and
leather-bound texts whose spines show centuries of handling. The air carries
the distinctive scent of old paper and binding glue, while the thick
carpeting muffles footsteps and the occasional scrape of chair legs. Near the
eastern wall, a peculiar draft rises from an ornate iron grate set into the
floor, carrying with it the faint rustle of turning pages from somewhere far
below, though no amount of peering through the decorative metalwork reveals
the source. Brass plaques beside each shelf section bear catalog numbers in a
system that seems to shift subtly when observed indirectly, and certain
volumes appear to have migrated between visits, though the librarians insist
nothing has been moved./span
It is about 80F(26C) degrees. The mist is heaviest At Mayflower and Franklin/span
“Kai is not an executive,” Xiomara reveals, as she joins the executive seats herself, “But I am, and I quite like him.”
Nemi shrugs softly. “Am I the only student in attendance…?”
Malin reluctantly stands, and she tells Matthew, “I’m not a vee eye pee,” rising to stand and find someplace more uncomfortable.
Mab must’ve seen Matthew and Malin when she rushed into the library, and she casts them a quick wave, but then she just rushes straight past them into the Endless Library, to join Marlow, Genevieve, and eventually Xiomara at the Executive Seating. When everyone else starts sitting down nearby, she stands up, and then calls to Kai, Roberta and Matthew, “Sorry my lovelies! These seats are for Coretech Executives. Please have a seat over there! Thank you sooo much.” She beams, pointing to the heavy oak tables.
Nemi raises a hand. “I’f I’m the only one who’s attended to participate do I automatically win?”
Kai gives a wave to Genevieve, “Hey there, I’m Kai,” he greets her and indicates Sophie, “This is Sophie,” until she heads off, he turns and calls to Sophie, “That’s right, sit there you peasant!” before Mab kicks him out and he grunts, gets up and wanders over to the tables, “I like you too!” he adds to Xiomara on his way to rejoin Sophie.
“Not until you cut out my tongue and eat it,” Malin informs Nemi.
Nemi looks over to Malin. “Bet.”
Nemi says “Joking though-“
Sophie snickers at Kai and moves over to the tables, settling in. With a nod to Nemi, “Now you’re not the only student.”
Malin sticks that fleshy little organ out of her warm, wet mouth for Nemi to see, daring her.
Matthew doesn’t vacate his seat when Malin does the most socially acceptable, and sound, thing which is get up and move. But he doesn’t. He even looks at her like ‘sit back down, we belong here’. WHich of course they do until Mab reminds then they actually don’t. Her words are enough, no reluctance in the taller, older looking Montrose, only simple and content obedience when he rises and moves to the table to sit beside Malin.
From the nosebleed section of the oak-tables, Matthew leans over to murmur something to Malin.
Nemi nods softly towards Kai. “Now I am not indeed.” She turns back and grins towards Malin and chuckles softly. “I’d never actually do it though.”
Xiomara melts into her seat, safely away from the vile sunlight, somewhere near Mab. After delivering a hushed murmur to the Vice President, she then offers, “You all look delightful. Mab, truly, you are as carved of marble in your perfection.”
Mab smiles at Roberta very brightly, obnoxiously, and meaningfully after her little proclamation, still standing to try and stare her out of her seat.
Marlow shakes her head at Matthew.
Finally, Mab retakes her seat, still simpering, all toothy smiles and sunshine, and turns to converse quietly with Xiomara while everyone gets settled.
Malin still has her tongue out, and replies to Nemi with, “Imp,” probably trying to say ‘wimp’ before she puts it away. With Matthew whispering to her, both eyebrows climb high and she asks, “For real?”
Jenny steps on in, pausing briefly before finding a seat over at the oak tables
Derek makes his way over to a table and quietly takes a seat, attention directed towards his phone as he taps away on it for a time, giving an idle glance around once or twice before he looks to Malin. “Hey, Dobie,” he greets casually, his eyes flitting towards the podium with mute curiosity.
“Oh, it’s my boyfriend, Derek, who I only just met earlier, but have apparently been dating for two weeks,” Malin declares, blowing a kiss to Derek.
Nemi chuckles softly at Malin as she grins softly, raising THE finger up at her before putting it away, in a moment she straightens up, focusing suddenly on the competition in front of her.
It would be unfortunate if Mab needed to try to flex so prettily and obnoxiously to unseat Roberta, and so fortunately for her, the albino moves as Kai does, a shrug heralding the transfer from the seating to the table with the rest.
Nemi says “Shit. “
Matthew nods at Malin. “I mena. Just takes the right kind of attitude,” he claims, like this wore the solution to trespassing beyond any red velvet rope. A beat and another assuring, “We’d a sold it but honestly–” and now he’s looking over those filtering to join them at their ta ble. “This is the cooler table anyway.” A question posed for all there, “Right?”
Nemi sighs as she taps her comms for a moment and curses.
Derek just stares back at Malin for a beat, crossing his arms, letting that statement sit for a beat with a blank look, before he exhales from his nose.
“Derek is everyone’s boyfriend,” Kai nods to Malin and gives Derek a wave, Jenny gets a nod and August gets a, “Hey again Auggie,” before he leans up against Sophie, asking of the people near him, “I’m curious what’s going to happen here?” with a little grin.
Matthew hisses a whisper to the entire group, “I mean, they literally only have three people there.”
Kai says “I hear you. Can you get yourself and one of them out?“
A yawn after, and August has his head down on the table he’s taken spot on – arms folded so he can rest his jaw over them. Kai is given a slight upnod, but otherwise, he seems a little out of it. More reserved to people watching, for now.
Marlow says “Ahem. “
Kai says “Three down and bleeding at Concord Green, I know the symposium just started, but yeah… Buck, Connie and Meridith are the ones who are down.“
Sophie leans on Kai and says, “Nothing that involves dismemberment, I hope.”
Matthew was probably the class clown growing up. His voice isn’t very loud. It never rising up above the sanctity of the tables, but his low tone does hum out from time to time, like this were his own personal private coffee hour.
“Can you believe I haven’t even been on a date yet since arriving here?” Malin asks Derek, sound scandalized, but… it’s probably not all that surprising, either. A nod of agreement is given to Matthew. “Given the fact that both you and I, and Derek — who is dating both Mab and I, according to that Mother Bucker Ransom — are all seated here, yes. This is the cooler table.”
Xiomara says “I must admit, I don’t know any of them and therefore do not care.“
Xiomara says “Yes. “
Looking out over the study area as people settle in, Marlow nods. “Good afternoon,” she begins, her aristocratic speaking voice seeming somewhat out of place in this century. “Thank you all for attending tonight’s Bright Futures symposium. Coretech Industries, and by extension The Hand, is not here to meet with you solely on the basis of academic merit, but on the search for something rarer.” She pauses, looking out over those gathered. “Potential. Tonight is not about exams or essays. It is about discernment, ambition, and the instincts that separate the very few exceptional from the merely competent masses. We are not here to test what you know, but to learn how you think.”
“You will be questioned. Some topics may be familiar, others less so. How you choose to respond will be remembered. How you choose to remain silent may be remembered even more. The future belongs to those who understand the nature of power and have the will to shape it. Proceed accordingly. But first, some words from our executive board.” And with that, Marlow motions toward Mab for her to take the microphone.
“Ah! I heard that rumor,” Xiomara calls from her seat towards Malin and Derek, “Am I included? My name is Xiomara, but most know me as Mara, can I be one of the lucky girls?” Then she admits, “I thought he was gay, in truth.”
Kai says “Cadalie’s also about to go down.“
Malin focuses on Marlow as the introduction begins, but she does wink at Xiomara, welcoming her into the ‘everyone is dating Derek, even if they’ve never met him before’ club.
Matthew only nods emphaticalyl after Malin claims where the cool-kid table is. When Marlow begins speaking, however, he does quiet, turning his focus and eyes that way, his body language schooled down to polite attention.
Kai says “Near Concord Green. I think they were after a big one.“
Sophie looks at Kai, “Are we dating Derek too?”
Nemi says “I sadly do not have a ride to drive to anywhere accurately but I’m at that symposium event thing and can run up the road to it-“
“No,” Kai tells Sophie distractedly.
Kai says “Trying to get help, Pontifex.“
Matthew speaks up, eyes flitting towards Derek, “Hey Derek, you wanan go on a date with me? Drop all the zeroes and get with the hero?”
“The People’s Boyfriend… how quaint.” Derek mumbles to himself, rubbing at his forehead and furrowing his brows as his attention drifts up towards Marlow, blinking once or twice and going relatively quiet as her speech commences, nodding along once or twice, though not before giving Xiomara a funny look, some amusement playing at his expression for a moment though he seems keen not to interrupt.
Xiomara seems delighted by Malin’s win, clapping her hands together as she reorients her attention to Marlow and then Mab at the podium. She nods to Genevieve momentarily.
Kai says “Concord Green’s near stop 12, Autumn and Blackstone.“
Jenny perks up “Help for what?”
Nemi sighs softly as she looks over to Kai. “People are going down in the mists and it sounds like a few were fighting a big monster. Diego’s down I think.”
Sophie leans on Kai and just lets him work.
Matthew’s focus is short lived, his eyes cut towards Derek and he says something quietly in that direction.
“There’s three or four people bleeding out at Concord Green,” Kai relays to Jenny, when Nemi speaks he hmms, “Four or five then…” he grimaces, “Fuck.”
Nemi looks towards the door as she seems to wait for something as she holds her ear. Nodding to Kai after.
Nemi says “Four people bleeding out at concord green from what kai says- Hopefully the trace matches the location.“
Kai nods to Jenny, “I don’t see why not,” he looks to Nemi, “Areyour people organazing anywhere for a rescue attempt?” he asks.
“Kai. Darling,” Xiomara calls from her seat, tilting her head and focusing an unblinking stare in his direction. “Unless they are important individuals to you, it would be wise to axe your compassion,” she encourages, before adding that, “The Vice President of CoreTech Consulting has something to say, everyone — leave, or remain and be quiet, or I will … commence what I do best.”
There is an alarming width at which Xiomara opens her mouth, revealing her fangs to everyone as if she were a snake, not a human being.
Kai stands up and nods to Xiomara, “Sorry, it’s the leader of the Conclave and half its members. I’ll quit being loud,” he says and wanders out of the library.
Matthew has only for Marlow now, and the Symposium and the full attention of a race horse wearing blinders.
Sophie watches Kai go and sits quietly, chewing her lip.
Nemi says “I can’t get there on foot, distance is too far. Best I could do is rally to help the aurora heights group after diego’s confirmed to be rescued.“
Nemi nods softly.
Malin sits there, looking a bit annoyed at all of the worry going on by some others over people possibly dying.
Matthew really doesn’t look phased at all about people dying. They’re probably peasants.
Something said amongst the executives has Xiomara smiling her feline smile, like the cat that ate the canary and got away with it. She nods once.
Nemi sighs softly as she stays and listens to something in her ear.
Derek, for his part, looks wholly unbothered by the prospect of people getting laid out on the street either. He’s watching towards the podium with his chin propped on his hand, a lackadaisical expression apparent for a time.
Marlow nods at Mab, her expression somewhat relieved. “To the podium then, Madame Vice President.”
Matthew begins to clap, the briefest looks flashed around like he’s wondering if this is a time to clap, oh well he does anyway.
Malin gets distracted from her annoyance of people having compassion and empathy as Mab heads to the podium.
Derek’s expression lightens somewhat as his mind appears to be drawn from bleeding proles towards Mab as she takes the podium; he looks over hesitantly to Matthew as if waiting for someone else to clap before he would join, a puff of air from his nose in idle amusement.
Nemi claps softly as the vice president takes the podium, her posture has turned to emotionless once more as she focuses..
Matthew probably hasn’t been the only one clapping before. He at least knows how to work the moment, milk it just beyond awkward and just shy of obnoxious before he’s cutting an apologetic smile. My bad. In the next moment he’s exchanging quiet words with Malin.
After exchanging a few words with her colleagues over at the executive seating, Mab rises smoothly to her feet, taking the podium. Whatever was discussed seems to have put her in a good mood, but then, she’s been smiling since she got here, and hasn’t frowned once. For a few moments, gripping the edges of the stand in manicured fingernails, she simply scans the audience, taking them all in, looking deeply overjoyed with their presence. “Welcome, welcome,” she effusively greets the crowd, evidently oblivious to any prior death or drama. “My name is Mab Montrose, Vice-President of Coretech Consulting and the New Haven Chapter at the Hand. I am so glad to see so many bright, young, glowing faces here today. So much promise, and in such a wonderful place, the City Between!”
Mab pauses for applause, making clear she expects it by raising her hands as a conductor would to an orchestra. “Today I want to talk to you about the secrets of success and our company values at Coretech. Throughout life, many of you will face challenges, hardships, and suffering. But only a few will rise above, prove themselves in the gauntlet of life. Those of you — you already know in your hearts who you are — belong with us, with Coretech. Choosing to remain in your seats is the first proof and test. We have many more tests lined up for you! But remember this, my dears: life is never fair. The wisest and brightest among you will always ensure that unfairness works in your favour. Never should you mope when it does not! You must simply forge success into your own grasp.”
“How does she know my mantra?” Malin is wondering aloud after Mab’s speech from her seat between the young uncle fuckboy and the People’s Boyfriend.
With all eyes drawn upon Mab as the Vice President takes the podium, its easy for Arachne’s entry into the executive seating to go without notice, her steps making no sound as she ascends the steps and slips into a chair. She settles in, demurely crossing her legs at the ankle, chin lifted with glittering pride for her cousin as she addresses the gathered congregation.
Cristal walks in wearing not very much at all and finds an open seat, looking around at everyone attending.
Sophie sits quietly and looks around before focusing on someone.
Matthew joins in when there’s an actual queue to clap, this time he’s looking around the entire table, mirroring Mab’s expectations for applause their way.
Applauding at Mab’s pause without missing the cue, Marlow rises from her seat dutifully, and if her smile isn’t anywhere near as effusive as Mab’s own, it is at least present, those white fangs gleaming sharply.
Both of Malin’s slender hands raise and she applauds, letting that slap of skin on skin ring out repeatedly.
Sophie sits quietly and looks around before focusing on Mab, applauding as the others do.
Cristal starts clapping while very clearly not knowing what she’s clapping for.
Genevieve joins in on the applause from where she sits.
Nemi nods softly, hands coming together to applaud softly as she nods firmly.
Arachne rises to her feet, joining in the applause along with the team of executives.
Roberta applaudes, the sound dulled by glove on glove contact.
Derek applauds at Mab’s cue during the pause politely, a slight, yet cordial smile presented for a time as he lets his applause resound, gaze drifting to Matthew for a moment as he looks about before he turns his attention back to Mab, going silent as she continues. He doesn’t seem to have noticed Arachne at first, his attention primarily directed towards the speech.
“Now!” Mab cheerfully pipes up. “Whilst many of you know that we are, primarily, a company aimed at nurturing supernatural potential …” She leans forwards one more time, squinting at the crowd, as if her icy stare might discern their supernatural nature among them. “Many of you may not know that we are also staunch advocates of human rights! Free-range, organic livestock, who serve their proper place in the food-chain to serve us all.” She beams. “It is thanks to Coretech that all of us profit, as the flow of productivity ascends up this food-chain. With your support, we can create great works of art, innovation, technology, and create a better, happier world!” She extends her palms out cheerfully. “And now, I would like to invite our Chief Human Resources Officer, Mara Vasquez.” With that, flashing her fangs, she steps away from the podium, and introduces Xiomara with a flourish, waiting for them to swap positions before she might retake her own seat.
Matthew assumes it’s time to clap again, since someone new is coming up to speak. He does. Alone, or not.
Cristal claps, clearly still not knowing what in the hell she’s clapping for. “Oooh organic? Like at the farmer’s market??” she asks those around her aloud.
Malin claps merely because Matthew does.
Nemi looks towards the others seated near her… eyebrow raised not that noticeably before she continues to lean back and listen as if she would dare express anything she feels currently.
When Xiomara is called to the podium next, Marlow applauds politely again, not leaving Matthew on his own this time.
Nemi applauds softly, not for long as Mab leaves and Xiomara takes the podium, and she only applauds while the others do.
Xiomara abandons her seat, looking as though Mab has performed a great slight against her. Still, she prowls towards the podium to join the VP, tossing her dark hair over her shoulder and setting her hands on either side of the podium’s surface. “Yes, just like the farmer’s market,” she confirms to Cristal, flashing dimples and fangs as she smiles at the young woman, “Though not for purchase, generally. Thank you, Mab.”
Arachne brings her hands together in light applause as Xiomara takes to the podium.
Derek retains that cordial smile as Mab invites Xiomara to the podium, seeming to have appreciated the vision Mab presented; his green-eyed gaze drifts along to follow Xiomara as she abandons her seat.
Cristal stares at Xiomara’s teeth, those big blue eyes wide.
Matthew’s attention locks onto Xiomara as she addresses Cristal’s question. He quietly exchanges more words with the people at his table.
As Mab and Xiomara exchange places, Roberta joins Matthew in his polite applauding along with Marlow.
Jenny steps back in, wiping sweat off her brow and finding a seat
“I could wax historical on the Hand,” Xiomara confesses to the group, “But that would be dreadful for both you, and I. I loathe history.” She releases the podium and straightens her posture, clasping her hands. “What matters is the now, dears,” she insists to those at the table, speaking to them instead of the executives.
“What matters is that to be supernatural is to be in possession of a gift. To be supernatural is to enhance the world around you — and you are given tools that the humans are not privy to,” Xiomara explains next, “Do you see the state of the world? Too long have humans maligned us, mistreated us, and made no progress in the world that we are forced to exist within.” Her head shakes, and she gives a sharp click of her tongue against her teeth. “That is where the Hand seeks to improve on things. We see your talents, your intellects — human or otherwise, as humans are a valuable resource. We have our fingers in many pies: political, legal, entertaining… We have vast wealth, and we are determined to use it to shape the world around us to better suit us. All of us.” Her smile becomes sweeter, and less like a hungry animal, as she continues on, “And you are our future in that. Many of us are eager to see you grow alongside us as we work together to create the world that we envision. We foster community, and encourage your growth, and are excited to see where your paths take you.”
“…now, I am going to introduce you to Genevieve Rothwell, our Chief Legal Officer. Many of you may know her.” Her hand extends, gesturing to Genevieve before Xiomara steps from the podium again.
Genevieve stands and applauds for Xiomara as she concludes her speech, making her own way out towards the podium.
Nemi nods firmly as she hears these words, applauding for Xiomara and the arrival of Genevieve as she wears a soft smile on her face.
Cristal sticks something into her mouth and relaxes into her chair, soft clapping at the podium.
Arachne applauds for Xiomara, and now Genevieve, as they trade places at the podium.
Matthew is clearly moved by Xiomara’s words because when he starts clapping he rises to stand and then – like this were a sporting event – hoops his fingers and does a loud whistle. Maybe he’s just excited for Genevieve as well.
Sophie sits in her seat, watching with curiosity as a simple little human.
Once Genevieve is behind the podium, Xiomara melts back into her seat. She gives a soft snort of amusement at Matthew’s enthusiasm.
Malin claps, but she doesn’t have the enthusiasm that Matthew has.
As Xiomara concludes speaking, Genevieve stepping in to take her place, Roberta joins the others in applause once more, waiting for the woman to speak.
Applauding from her seat at the end of Xiomara’s speech, Marlow nods at Mab, then continues her applause once Genevieve is announced next.
Fiercely applauding for Xiomara, Mab repeatedly glances back at the audience throughout her speech, smiling as if to confirm that they too share the same level of admiration that she does. She might even be making quiet note of anyone who doesn’t clap the appropriate amount, and can be seen briefly narrowing her eyes at a student who’s looking at their phone. She then claps again, and soon gets settled back down as Genevieve takes the podium.
Derek lofts a brow as Matthew whistles, though he nonetheless rises to applaud Xiomara’s words with a confident smile, looking thoroughly convinced by her words as he claps, his attention then drifting to Genevieve as she steps up to the podium, letting his applause die down as the crowd would, seeming engaged.
Genevieve looks out over the crowd of students and then down at her notes before speaking up. “As you may know, many law firms do pro-bono work. When I worked in corporate law the difference between how it felt to be working for a wealthy client, and how it felt to be defending someone for free was not small. If there is one lesson that I wish I’d learned when I was younger it’s this, you almost never can change the world, but you almost always can steer it.” She pauses, letting that sink in for a moment before looking back down at her notes and then up again to speak further. “It is the easiest thing in the world to pick a moral battle you cannot win, it cocoons you from any real responsibility that might come if you do win, it protects you from any doubt about the compromises and trade-offs you make, it shelters you from having to interrogate yourself and your motives. But it does nothing else. If you want to change the world for the better, if you really have a cause you believe in, then you should try and find the best place and way you can nudge power towards it. It may not be as glamorous, but it is real, and the Hand is what can help you do that.” She concludes, giving one last look at the crowd before picking up her papers. “Now please give it up for Arachne Montrose, Chief Marketing officer.” She says, clapping herself to start the applause before heading back to the seating.
Cristal’s eyes begin to get unfocused, but she sees enough to hear a familiar name and clap-claps, off beat. “Ya famous!!” she cries out at the stage towards Arachne.
Nemi claps with more enthusiasm after such a speech, continuing to do such even as Genevieve gets to their seat and Arachne reaches the podium, smiling and only stopping when others do, sadly she lacks the guts to yell like Cristal but her excitement for the latter and the former podium holders is clear.
Xiomara applauds with a surprising amount of force, given she doesn’t seem too thrilled to be awake at the hour of the afternoon she is currently present for.
Arachne rises with graceful precision, bringing her hands together in soft applause to Genevieve as she concludes her speech, sashaying up toward the podium.
Matthew doesn’t stand back up again, but the next speaker’s name has him clapping again. No longer the lone, nor first, clapper in the room, something he regards with an air of a completed job.
Malin claps her hands for Genevieve, and then watches as Arachne takes her turn.
Sophie isn’t sure what they’re all applauding for so she just sits still and tries to remain invisible.
Applause comes from the executive seating once more at Genevieve finishes her speech and calls Arachne up next, and Marlow looks out over the tables thoughtfully as she speaks quietly to those beside her.
Jenny leans back in her chair quietly looking up to the podium, listening.
This time, it’s Genevieve who’s spoken, and Arachne announced. Once more, Roberta claps for her, as she waits for the following words.
Derek props an elbow on the table as Genevieve speaks, gaze relatively fixed as he listens with interest, nodding once or twice as she speaks, before lifting off as she concludes to continue his applause; when Arachne’s name is announced, a little flit of his brows is given, and his closed-lip smile broadens ever-so-slightly, continuing engaged applause with candid interest.
Clapping again, Mab’s eyes follow Arachne admiringly as she rises from her seat to take the podium, and can be seen swapping a few words with the others in the executive seats.
Marlow laughs aloud, suddenly, but it stops just as quickly as it began.
Arachne takes her place behind the podium in curated perfection, as though she exists in that very moment to address the audience. Her smile is subtle, glittering, touched with just enough warmth to seem sincere. “You’ve heard about influence. About wealth. About reshaping the world. But let’s speak plainly, shall we?” A poignant pause, never a second longer than necessary, as she gives a subtle wink toward Matthew and Derek in the crowd when she finds their faces. “The Hand isn’t about power for power’s sake. It’s about shaping perception, sculpting narrative, making sure that when history looks back –” She scans the crowd once more, leaning in, intimate, ” — it sees -you-. We don’t ask you to shout into the void. We give you the microphone, the stage, and the audience already leaning in. If you want to be more than a bystander in your own story, youve found the right family.” Her manicured fingers curl lightly on the podium’s edge, her smile growing just a touch, assured. “And trust me, we are family. We don’t chase trends. We birth them. We don’t knock on doors. We own the building. And if you’re clever enough to be here, darlings, you already understand that the world doesn’t reward the loud. It rewards the unforgettable. Join us, and let me show you how to become exactly that.”
Cristal/i/i>Kai wanders back into the symposium and gives a little wave on his way to the tables, where he rejoins Sophie, Nemi and a few others, lowering his voice to murmur to them.
Genevieve sets her wine glass aside to applaud loudly for Arachne from the executive seating.
With her speech concluded, Arachne draws back from the podium, sashaying back to her seat with the executives.
Jenny looks down at the bill confused before giving a shrug returning her attention back to the podium
Nemi claps loudly as Arachne ends their speech, a smile still on her face as she shows some kind of emotion, still quite excited by the speech given by them before her clapping quiets down a bit as the next moves to the podium.
Striding inward, Elliot wanders towards the oak tables, trying to be as quiet as possible, lifting his cane as he walks so it doesn’t softly tick or tack. Without interrupting the proceedings, he settles at a table, giving a soft, quiet sigh.
Ever so casually, Malin is flipping Elliot the bird, and that hand slowly is guided towards her hair, where she fusses, one-fingeredly at her beach waves.
Matthew gives his full undivided attention to Arachne, leaning forward in his seat. He nodslike every where she were speaking were the gospel truth. And there’s enthusiasm vocalized on how the stage will be set up, a loud ‘mhmmm’ carried through with pointed nods until she’s done speaking and he’s back to his feet with avid applause.
Derek clasps his hands together at the table before him, regarding Arachne with genuine interest as she speaks, nodding once or twice as she starts, describing the goals of their organization. A slight upcurl at his lips is presented, and his brows furrow slightly as if internally contemplating the meaning of her words, tapping a finger on his table once or twice, before rising as she concludes, applauding with a cordial expression, a glint of consideration still present in his eyes as if reflective.
As Arachne’s speech comes to an end, Marlow rises from her seat, joining in with the applause as she returns to the podium. “Students, attendees,” Marlow addresses those seated at the oak tables. “I hope some of you have been moved today by these words of inspiration from some of the top minds at Cortech, and that their words of guidance are of some use to you as you continue your education and decide what, and who, you wish to be when you step out of Windermere’s halls, and onto the stage of life.”
“To help steer your thinking toward that future, we have a little exercise for you, and of course, there are prizes to be won, as promised,” Marlow adds, gesturing toward the boxes and bags on the tables. “Please, those interested, grab a piece of paper. I’m going to ask that you each write down the first word that comes to mind when you hear the word POWER,” she says, gesturing toward the stack of paper.
Cristal scrambles to grab a piece of paper and a pen like a gremlin.
Nemi nods softly, pulling a pen from her pocket she reaches and carefully takes a piece of paper with a soft nod.
Matthew looks around the table, grabbing a sheet of paper and a pen.
Kai snatches up a piece of paper and pulls a pen from his backpack, he scratches out a word and offers his pen to Sophie, “Need this?”
Malin reaches for a piece of paper promptly, and she then grabs a pen, getting to work immediately. “Hah!” gets blurted out, sounding victorious already as she scribbles away.
Nemi nods softly as she quickly writes something down, a soft nod being given as something immediately came to mind.
Malin clears her throat as she sets her pen back down.
Something said among the executives has Xiomara letting out a veritable cackle, and then a small snort is given as she looks aside at Mab.
Cristal is scribbling things on the paper now.
Sophie scribbles a word on a piece of paper and folds it.
Jenny finishes scribbling down a word on the paper, folding it up
Matthew consideres things then immediately tip sover to begin writing.
Derek clears his throat, walks up to claim a piece of paper, and without much delay at all he draws out that first word that comes to mind, keeping his paper close at hand thereafter.
Nemi nods softly, looking towards the others as she folds the paper she had written on. Waiting patiently she sits back for instructions to be given.
Malin wiggles that piece of paper as she holds it up, helping the ink dry or just a little spastic.
“Thirty more seconds, then I expect everyone to have finished writing their word,” Marlow says from where she stands. “Once finished, I want you all to exchange papers between each other, and then, using the word written by one of your peers, briefly explain its connection to the concept of power, in your own words. The best-spoken among you will win the first prize. Begin.”
Matthew not so subtly tries to lean in to see what others are still writing. Malin’s is completed and he pouts about it, then proceeds to lean past her to try and snag a look at Derek’s, and so on and so on.
Cristal doesn’t seem to get the instructions. She just holds out her paper for anyone who wants it.
Mab takes her phone out of her pocket, checks it, and then shows it around to her fellow executives. A few words are exchanged before she slips it back away, shaking her head.
Matthew read Cristal’s paper.
Matthew starts laughing, passing the pper back
Xiomara studies Roberta from her seat, unblinking and pensive.
Jenny visibly pauses looking around and unusre who to even hand the folded up piece of paper to.
Sophie sighs and pinches the bridge of her nose, a quiet, “Shhiiit” escaping as her shoulders move with a silent giggle.
“What’s so funnnnny, honeybeee?” Cristal slurs at Matthew, her eyes unfocused.
Mab struggles not to laugh at something Marlow’s said, doubling over in her seat for a moment before pulling herself back up and together. But really she just looks very happy to be here, totally vibing.
Roberta looks straight on back at Xiomara with a shrug of the hands. Clearly, she doesn’t care in the slightest about what ever it is– It’s a job; Paint by numbers and it was done.
The straight-on look from Roberta is met with the feline smile of Xiomara, her dimples showing. Her fangs do not, though.
Jenny looks over to Nemi offering her piece of paper
Nemi looks over to Jenny as she smiles softly. Nodding she trades softly with them and smiles.
Looking stoic and innocent, Marlow doesn’t laugh, instead looking out over those seated with papers in front of them. “Speak up,” she encourages them. “It’s a school night, let’s not be here all day.”
“Wait, so, I don’t get to brag about what I chose and why I chose it?” Malin is asking Marlow with a pout.
Nemi nods softly as she hums softly and then firmly at Jenny.
“You can brag to us later,” Marlow promises Malin. “Behave and follow the instructions for now.”
Cristal makes grabby hands at Matthew. “Lemme see!”
Malin sighs heavily and hands her paper over to Matthew.
Cristal glances at the paper. She has to squint to really read it. A giggle ensues and she slips the paper back to Matthew.
Nemi sighs softly as she looks to the other students that have started being a bit… reckless might be a way to word it, raising an eyebrow and shrugging softly as she takes a moment to think of how to word this.
Matthew missed the instructions, he was too busy balling up his paper and when grabby hands are being sent his way, he simply passes another paper over.
“Trade me?” Kai asks Derek and flings his paper at the other man.
Derek squints over to Kai. “So… I guess we have to exchange these, then, or something.” He dubiously extends his paper to Kai, as if expecting him to do the same in return; his paper, for its part, has been kept pristine and certainly not balled up; said trade commences.
Matthew shakes his head, “Who am I giving this to?” is his question.
Malin says, “I gave you mine,” to Matthew.
Sophie sighs, “I still need to swap with someone too.”
“Write the first word you associate with the word power, and then exchange your paper with someone else,” Marlow repeats the instructions slowly.
“Pft,” Kai tells Derek after he reads his paper and shakes his head at Derek, “What is this?” he laughs and glances to Sophie, “Here.” and hands her Derek’s.
Matthew nods at Malin, and just passes his paper over, “Okay, here.”
Cristal randomly passes her paper to Kai now.
Malin victoriously makes a successful exchange, finally.
Matthew finally understands the directions.
Malin does a double take at the piece she’s been handed.
Sophie gives hers to Cristal as she has Kai’s now.
Sophie winces as her paper toss goes to Marlow and not Cristal.
Kai laughs at Cristal’s paper as he checks what it says, shaking his head a bit, “Is this one of those sports ball teams?” he asks Cristal, “I like the veins you did on this one,” he points to one object on the paper.
Derek crosses his arms as he stares at Kai. “That’s about the response I’d expect,” he snarks, before slipping up the paper he’s handed. “…I guess that makes sense too, in any event,” he mumbles.
Marlow flicks the paper that comes flying at her head back down toward the tables, expressionless.
“If no one has a partner to swap will, I will happily take your paper,” Xiomara calls from the executive seats.
“And you will also take the prize, if you complete the very simple assignment before they do,” Marlow informs Xiomara, nodding.
Matthew puzzles over the paper he’d been given, slowly nodding like it makes sense – his eyes say it doesn’t and he then asks Malin, “What does this mean?”
Cristal smiles at Kai. “I got practice drawin,” she explains, looking around for a piece of paper to read.
Malin is reading over that one, single word on the piece of paper that Matthew gave her, over and over and over again as the wheels in her mind turn. She looks at Matthew. “I think you’re supposed to tell me, aren’t you?”
Malin peers over at Marlow for clarification.
Matthew really, really doesn’t understand the assignment. His eyes also look towards Marlow.
Elliot says “Alright, who wants my paper?“
“I love prizes,” Xiomara coos out merrily.
“Over here, Elly,” Kai waves his paper at Elliot and flips the sheet he has to Elliot.
“Once you have someone else’s paper, speak up and explain what you believe the word’s connection to the concept of power is,” Marlow says slowly. “What are they teaching, here?” she asks no one in particular.
Elliot lifts his paper and repeats his question, dangling the sheet around like a ribbon. “Alright, who wants my paper?”
Kai waves a hand at Elliot, “Toss it,” he grins to the other man
Mab locks eyes with Matthew for a moment, frowning quizzically as she toys with her earrings.
“So like if Mars wrote down lineage and gave it to me I’d then give a speech on what I think lineage means in relation to power.” Genevieve further clarifies, “Even though Mars wrote it I’d speak.”
“Give it to me,” Xiomara demands of Elliot, “If you cannot find a partner, I will take it. Then I will win a prize and it will be thrilling.”
Though when it becomes clear to her that Kai and Elliot are trading, Xiomara seems to sulk. It’s fake sulking, anyone could tell.
“I’m not a barbarian,” Elliot huffs, as he stands, striding over towards Kai. “I am civilized. I will /hand/ you the paper.” And with those words uttered, he does exactly as he proclaims, stuff his paper into Kai’s hands.
Sophie stands up and says, “I got the word Utility,” She clears her throat and speaks with a tone casual but confident, “I believe, that they mean theres a difference between having power and actually using it. Power without utility is like an engine without fuel-it exists, but it doesn’t do anything. The real strength in power lies in its application, in turning raw potential into something functional. Whether it’s a tool, a system, or an idea, utility is what shapes power into progress.”
“You gave me mine back man,” Kai tells Elliot and stands up, moves over to the man and offers the paper to Elliot, “Let’s trade again.
Sophie promptly sits back down and chews her lip.
“Can I have a paper? I wanna win!” Cristal says, looking around.
Derek rolls his eyes as he looks to Kai, then faces forward, evidently deciding at that point to be the among the first to speak on the word he’s presented with. “The sheet I’ve been presented with associated the concept of power with magic. In a sense, I can understand where said person was coming from; magic, at its core, is… a personification or expression of power brought forth from one’s own essence, or anima.” Derek pauses for a moment, cupping his chin thoughtfully.
“Magic is, at its core, something that can be expressed subtly or dramatically. Power both in the sense of the distanced, invisible hand of rituals, as well as in the dramatic displays of power that Sorcerers can wield against their foes in combat.” He seats himself with a confident dip of his chin as if reassuring himself thereafter, his eyes flitting down to his phone for a beat.
Matthew puzzles over the word on his paper for a very long time, tongue trapped between his teeth, oblivious to Mab’s attention, or really anyone else’s. Eventually, though, he shrugs, looks up and wodners, “So do I just blurt out my answer or wait in line or…”
But when has a Montrose ever waited in line? Or offered to. He makes an executive decision then, eyes going straight to the Executive table as he does so, and begins to speak up. “My word is Mine. I think most would think of possession, and ownership. But I think this is something quietly buried deep, waiting to explode.”
Kai snatches a piece of paper from the ground and slides it across the table to Cristal.
Derek rolls his eyes as he looks to Kai, then faces forward, evidently deciding at that point to be the among the first to speak on the word he’s presented with. “The sheet I’ve been presented with associated the concept of power with magic. In a sense, I can understand where said person was coming from; magic, at its core, is… a personification or expression of power brought forth from one’s own essence, or anima.” Derek pauses for a moment, cupping his chin thoughtfully.
“Magic is, at its core, something that can be expressed subtly or dramatically. Power both in the sense of the distanced, invisible hand of rituals, as well as in the dramatic displays of power that Sorcerers can wield against their foes in combat.” He seats himself with a confident dip of his chin as if reassuring himself thereafter, his eyes flitting down to his phone for a beat. (fix)
“What about winning? I misses that,” Elliot expresses, before huffing and glancing over towards Xiomara. “Do you want my paper, Miss Vasquez?”
Matthew remains standing like he expects to field a few questions after. What a narcissist.
Xiomara’s dimples deepen as she turns her smile on Elliot. “It would be cruel to win automatically, especially as one of the executives of the organization holding this symposium,” she admits, “So no.”
Nemi nods softly, standing up as she takes a breath in. “My paper says. Pack. While I did not immediately see the direct connection to power I do now. A pack is a sort of family. A pack protects each other, watches over each other. A single wolf alone may have some power but together a pack can hold all of the power in a fight, or a hunt. Its a family most of all, one that teaches the others in it how to hunt and be a functioning member of the pack.” She states as she nods.
“It provides nurture to ones Nature. Just like a teacher is to its student, a pack is to their pups. Like the group is to those who join it. Alone- you may be week. But in a Pack- A family. You have Power alongside them, And if not then? They’ll help you get such, for whatever goal. Even if its to hunt along side others you care for.” She explains before nodding.
“One might have power on their own. But with a Pack, A family, A court or a faction. Such a bond is stronger in power together than on their own.” Says before she sits back down and nods firmly.
From her place among the executives, Arachne tilts her head ever so slightly, a ghost of a smile tugging at her lips as she regards Derek with quiet approval.
Xiomara’s smile becomes a bit strained when she listens to Nemi, her nose twitching.
Malin really seems to be struggling with whatever word Matthew had written on the piece of paper she now is in possession of. “Couple,” she utters out, finally after others have shared, and she starts bee essing as she is prone to do. “That is a dangerous one. People often think the word is related to softness, togetherness. Warmth… but for me, I’ve always thought of it as a weapon.” She pauses a moment. “A couple. Two people. Hand in hand. It’s one of the most powerful forces in the entire universe.” She’s trying not to visibly gag while claiming such things. “And you know what the very best part is? It doesn’t have to be healthy, only synchronised. Think about this.” A smile starts forming across her filler enhanced lips as she’s even starting to convince herself of this bull. “A king on his thrown? Totally overthrowable. A queen on hers is replaceable, but a couple can move in a shared orbit, pulling everyone else in, and dragging everyone into their gravitational field. They can build an empire together, raze another to ashes. They can slip through cracks that an army could not breach. They can have that ride or die kind of a bond where they do not ask for permission, they simply take. I think the best part is that no one ever suspects the couple until it is far too late, because they are too busy looking for the lone tyrant. Two people properly paired can be unstoppable.”
Kai peers at Elliot and turns to head back to his seat, but he remains standing when he arrives back by Elliot and he says, “My paper has Rangers on it. And that’s because the writer of the word was thinking of the Power Rangers. The Power Rangers have special things that let them Morph Mightily into better versions of themselves. I think the writer was trying to say that she likes relics that give enhanced power and I think that’s a very good point. She also has some dicks and hearts on this, and I think that’s meant to represent that owning someone through lust or love is also a form of power. Thank you!” he gives an east Asian-esque bow to the room and sits back down.
Cristal sits up and shows off her piece of paper, the word ‘Fragile’ written on it to anyone who is close enough to read it. “MY PAPER SAYS FRAGGLE! WHICH IS LIKE CUZ POWER MADE UP’N IT LIKE ONLY WHATCHA GET SOMEONE BELIEVE LIKE WHEN SALLY WATERSTONE ROLLED UP ON ME IN SOPHOMORE YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL AND TOLD ME SHE WAS GONNA BEAT ME UP AND I WAS LIKE NOT SURE IF I SHOULD BELIEVE HER SO LIKE I KINDA DID CUZ SHE SAID IT TO BITCHY. DIDN’T REALIZE SHE WAS FRAGGLIN ME.”
Cristal takes a deep breath and sits back down.
Malin also eyes Matthew when he explains her word of ‘mine.’
Nemi sits back down as she may have drawn some disdain at the word as she sinks back into the chair. Her hands fold the paper back up as she adds. “While not all of the examples function in the same way… each still value their members and act together in a way that provides and holds power over other groups.”
Kai breaks into applause for Cristal and nods firmly at her explanation of power.
Cristal’s little speech has Xiomara placing her face in her palm. A bit of laughter can be heard.
Malin looks over at someone with eyes that are asking ‘WTF?’
Nemi looks over and raises an eyebrow as she cracks a smile now after hearing that…. intense and odd speech.
Malin looks over at Cristal with eyes that are asking ‘WTF?’
When Malin speaks, Mab lets her gaze linger aside at Marlow.
“I don’t really know what that’s about, but-” And with a mutter, Elliot glances between everyone who’s spoken so far, before wrinkling his nose, his words coming out perhaps a little too loudly. “Jesus Christ.” And then, with a shake of his head, he wanders over towards Xiomara and places it in front of her, whether she accepts it or not.
Matthew nods along as Malin speaks on his word, ‘couple’, with a slow deliberate rhythm to his agreement. He wears the expression of an author dissecting its own metaphor, criyical, expectant, as if not only wanting to be understoond, but quietly demanding it. He seems visibly pleased after.
A quiet, self-assured ghost of a smile crosses Derek’s expression for a brief moment before his attention turns and his chin turns towards Cristal and Kai as the latter starts applauding, blinking with something of a confused expression – probably an expression similar to Malin’s thereafter.
Xiomara reaches up to take Elliot’s paper as he places it before her, seeming intrigued.
Looking absolutely pained, Marlow makes it through those speeches, somehow, her fingers gripping the edge of the podium. “Thank you all for your illuminating words, I… will now convene with the executive board who will determine first, second, and third place before we conclude for the evening.” And with that, she heads for the executive seating area, her expression one of clear disbelief.
Jenny looks down at the paper looking back up to the podium “I got the word Protection.” she states to the room. “Probably the term of using your power to protect others in need.” she takes a moment before continuing, considering what to say “Using your power to protect can stunt someones growth as much as it could help them bloom. If you are always there to help someone, they could grow to rely on you. For example.”
“But when knowing how and the appropriate time to do it, can make a huge difference in someones life for the better.” she finishes off sitting back down. She looks over to Cristal “I want whatever she’s havin’.”
Though her eyes are covered, what Roberta is doing in responce to Cristal’s little monologue is unquestionably staring. Roberta’s expression is blank– Wiped clean, devoid of anything that could ever convey more than -the fuck-
Marlow nods as Jenny speaks after her conclusion, acknowledging her contribution as well.
Cristal is entirely oblivious to reactions or stares, but she does clap politely for everyone who talks.
Once the executive board is deliberating Matthew looks to Malin, wondering then, “Did I understand it right?”
“Wait, wait,” Xiomara announces, snapping the paper once, gently. “I have a late entry,” she relays to Marlow, before clearing her throat. “Governance,” she states, “Those with power have control over what is done in a society. This is true, whether they are in open power or behind the scenes: power opens doors. Power applies pressure. Be that monetary, magical, physical, et cetera.”
While Marlow goes to the more important people to vote, Malin is explaining to Matthew, “‘Mine’ was my word because it is one that doesn’t make me yawn. ‘Trust’ gives me hives, and ‘connection’ sounds like a word that should only be related to a weak Wi-Fi signal, but power is electrifying. It is a current that shocks people when they underestimate you.” Malin sounds very sure of herself as she schools the male Montrose. “People think power, often times, is some big, clunky throne you get to sit on, but it isn’t. No, no, it’s like a whisper made right behind someone’s ear, and it is about getting to choose who sinks, and who swims,” she throws in some mermaid humour, perhaps. “I’ve always preferred pulling strings to cutting cords, and probably because it’s more theatrical. If I’m being honest, I don’t really like hurting people.” A beat. “Unless they deserve it, or they are in my way, or they are boring.” She considers what she’s just said, and then clarifies, “Which is, uh, most people, but back to power. I chose it as ‘mine.’ Why mine? Well, because I don’t see it as a concept, I think of it as something I already own. You don’t dare ask a queen she she calls her crown hers, do you? Of course not! Nor do you ask the sea why it claims every drowned sailor. It’s such a polite little word, obedient, and people get very shy about it at times. Also, it sounds way better than the word ‘yours.’ That’s not a fantasy I share.”
“Preach it sista!” Cristal/i>/spanNemi nods softly at Malin after their speech.
Malin smiles broadly.
“We have our winners,” Marlow announces once she’s conferred with the executive board.
Malin theatrically mouths the word ‘mine’ at Matthew in hopes her speech is settling in.
Matthew spreads his hands like he’s presentingt Malin to the audience, the word magician currently schooling him on the fine art of layered metaphor. He looks visibly pleased, and after she’s done speaking he beams a smile, offering her his simple and uncomplicated reply, “I get it.”
“In third place, having spoken on the power behind power couples, is Malin,” Marlow announces. “In second place, having illuminated us all on the utilization of power, is Sophie. And in first place, having spoken quite convincingly on the power of magic, is Derek,” Marlow says into the microphone. “Derek,” Marlow addresses Derek first. “You may pick your prize from the table first.”
Sophie leans over to whisper to Kai and then is pulled back when she hears her name, an owlish look of surprise moving over her features.
“Y’all real fraggle, that’s for sure. Congrats!!” Cristal tells the winners.
Malin looks genuinely surprised her bullshit about couples got any recognition, but she doesn’t complain. She applauds Derek when Marlow announces the winner.
Matthew claps for all the winners.
Kai claps wildly for the winners as they’re announced, “Congratulations everyone!”
Nemi softly applauds with a firm nod.
Roberta claps for all the winners.
Camille claps softly with a smile and nod to Sophie.
Xiomara applauds for the winners, seeming pleased as she bestows a smile on each of them.
Genevieve joins in applauding for the winners.
“I always knew he’d inherit something worthwhile,” Arachne can be heard giving shameless praise to her younger cousin, Derek, as he’s announced first place.
Applauding for all three winners and clapping like a baby seal, Mab beams proudly at each and every single person gathered.
Derek rises, to applaud as winners are announced – third, then second place… and then himself, which gets a faint upcurl at his lips, and he dips his chin before making his way over to the table. “I’m going to claim… the dagger, here,” he decides softly, claiming the sheath. “Thank you.” he iterates candidly to Marlow post-announcement, accepting his prize before making his way back to his seat.
“A great choice, and congratulations again,” Marlow tells Derek. She then turns to Sophie. “Your turn,” Marlow urges, gesturing to the two remaining prizes.
Something said at the executive seats has Xiomara beginning to openly laugh, not even trying to hide it now.
Arachne gives a rueful shake of her head, eyes glimmering with incredulous humor as she glances down at her phone.
Marlow stares at Mab for a moment.
Sophie gives Camille a little smile and then glances at Marlow, giving a nod of thanks before standing and walking over. With a curious brow she glances back to the third place winner and purses her lips. Then she picks up the Lululemon tote bag and dips into a little curtsy, “Thanks.”
Cristal yells out at Sophie. “YA GOT THE BEST ONE!”
“That leaves the stunning earrings for Malin,” Xiomara suggests.
“Woo!” Kai claps loudly for Sophie when she walks up and picks her prize, “I hope it’s yoga pants!” he calls encouragingly and then quiets down a bit, slouching down in his seat.
Camille shrugs to Kai in response. “Probably stolen. But it’s summer. I don’t need shoes.”
Rising, Malin moves to obtain the, quote, stunning earrings and she winks at Xiomara playfully.
Nemi claps softly for Sophie as she smiles happily.
Sophie gives Cristal a wide grin and then leans over to Kai, “And a hoodie. So I don’t have to steal yours.”
Stirring from his daydreaming, Elliot claps for Derek politely. “Good job, Mister Fairchild. Absolutely no clue what’s going on.”
Sophie gives Nemi a friendly smile and wiggle of her fingers.
Matthew inevitably succumbs to his phone, shoots off a few texts and then tucks it right back away.
“Good choice, the hoodie is very soft,” Marlow tells Sophie. “And congratulations again.” She then turns to Malin. “And of course, the last prize is yours, Miss Power Couple,” Marlow says with some amusement.
Genevieve stands and points out Marlow, “Let’s all thank Mars Pierce for arranging this evening.” She says, applauding for Marlow.
Xiomara rises from her seat, applauding for Marlow when Genevieve points at her. “A very well-done event,” she decides, “And I hope you all took something away from this, intellectually.”
Malin applauds Marlow after Genevieve starts it off, and then she says, “Miss Power Couple. Fits me perfectly,” with her voice steeped in sarcasm.
“Woo! Go Dobie!” Kai claps for Malin as well and when it turns time to support Marlow, he claps for her too, a chipper grin on his face as he peers her way, “Lots of fun!” he calls up to her in encouragement.
Nodding in agreement with Genevieve’s announcement, Roberta applauds Marlow’s efforts.
Cristal claps for everyone, stumbling her way out unsteadily.
Derek murmurs something in quiet conversation with Elliot, before looking up as Genevieve points out Marlow, and a faint smile finds its place on his expression, standing and applauding for a time with a couple appreciative nods.
Cristal sits down again, deciding that she’s lost.
“Thank you, thank you.” Marlow inclines her head at the applause. “And thank you all for coming, have a wonderful evening.”
When Malin steps up to claim her prize, Mab smiles proudly at her in particular, still clapping. Although at this point her hands seem to have gotten tired from all the scheduled applause, her manner distracted and fingers flimsy. “It has been so nice to hear all of your speeches,” she adds, “it is so unfortunate that for this event, and in life as well, there can only be so few winners.” Then she too rises to her feet as the event is formally concluded.
Marlow points Cristal directly east.
Standing once Marlow has concluded affairs, Roberta turns on a heel and heads out.
Malin takes note of Mab’s proud approval, and she blows her a kiss, mouthing silently something like, ‘My Lady Mab.’
Nemi nods softly, sighing as she gathers her bag, bowing softly to the people of power on the stage.