The Arms Hotel, Some Other Conference Room, Saturday Afternoon
Bella stood behind the podium, dressed from head to toe in elegant robes of deep burgundy.
"Hello," she said with almost a smile - but it was really too much like a sneer to be considered kind. "I understand you all would like to learn a bit about making your way through the ranks of miniondom. I, myself, have been serving the Dark Lord for nigh unto twenty years, and have gained his favor through a number of deeds. The best way to rise from bottom-level pawn up to right hand witch or wizard - " She coughed, suddenly. "Forgive me, I mean man or woman, is to build up trust. Prove loyalty. Take risks."
And then she did smile. "And kiss ass like there's no tomorrow. Trust me, a simple, 'My Lord, have you been doing something new with your skin? It looks so supple!' or a 'Master, are those new robes? They're stunning!' will gain you miles you might have never dreamed of."
She looked out into her audience, eyes bright. "Questions? Don't be shy."
"Hello," she said with almost a smile - but it was really too much like a sneer to be considered kind. "I understand you all would like to learn a bit about making your way through the ranks of miniondom. I, myself, have been serving the Dark Lord for nigh unto twenty years, and have gained his favor through a number of deeds. The best way to rise from bottom-level pawn up to right hand witch or wizard - " She coughed, suddenly. "Forgive me, I mean man or woman, is to build up trust. Prove loyalty. Take risks."
And then she did smile. "And kiss ass like there's no tomorrow. Trust me, a simple, 'My Lord, have you been doing something new with your skin? It looks so supple!' or a 'Master, are those new robes? They're stunning!' will gain you miles you might have never dreamed of."
She looked out into her audience, eyes bright. "Questions? Don't be shy."