the past year had been spent, trying to move past the reputation she had earned with her own actions. regaining her human form, having her every move watched, knowing that others whispered about her behind her back. payment for her stint amongst the demons, she knew, and so she bore the treatment without complaint. but this was promised to be the last thing she had to do before regaining her freedom, and minerva was determined to not screw this up.
she had recognized the former fairy from the start, but had made sure to reveal no recognition. after all, in this situation she was the demon that had offered the cult the chance to get closer to their god, and so boredom was her mask when faced with worshippers. even so, as she had watched, the tigress (and a tigress she would remain as long as she could get out of this place alive) plotted. there was an opportunity here, to pass along information to those who had hired her to play this role in the first place.
which is why minerva was here, watching the smaller mage attempt to make her way out of the woods. only once she knew they were both far enough to avoid being spied on by any avatar allies did she make her move. “councilwoman, a word.”
❝ ah -- !! ❞ it’s not quite a yelp, yet the quiet squeak that slips out as the voice speaks up from behind her is something she would have preferred not happened. regardless, it is nothing to worry about, certainly not when there are more pressing issues. there’s something about the voice that rings familiar, yet levy can take no chances, not here. she whirls, cloak billowing around her as she does, hand poised and mind prepared -- she’s mere seconds away from casting solid script : shine to create a means of escape, but a glimpse of the person stood behind her brings her motion to an abrupt halt.
finally, recognition dawns on her, as does the realisation that of course minerva would be in the area -- after all, her current mission is one given by the council. tension melting from her shoulders, one hand falls to her side whilst one rubs idly at the back of her neck, and for a moment a sheepish laugh all she finds herself able to muster. however, it does not last long. soon enough, the small smile dissipates, replaced with an expression far more serious.
yet another cautionary glance cast around before she removes the hood covering her head, looking up to meet minerva’s gaze. a slight nod is the only motion she makes, belated acknowledgement. ❝ ... mm. how can i help ? ❞