#enterpriser

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THE SOUL OF NOELLE

Character Name — Noelle Persaud

Age — 34

Role — Enterpriser

House — Mercury

FCs — Maisie Richardson-Sellers

STATUS — Taken by Admin Crow

BEHIND THE SOUL.

“With all your money, you couldn’t buy yourself a soul...” It’s a parable that remains true, long after the carnival’s ‘fortune teller’ spews out her generic fortune. Only ten-years-old, and already Noelle looks to the world with cold eyes and a vacant gate. By the Dubois’ estimation, it would take approximately six people for Noelle to come to power. The out-of-wedlock daughter of a well-to-do hotelier; she is the forgotten piece of an established reign. Her needs are fulfilled, but her presence is minimized. On the outskirts of a tight-knit family, she finds comfort in the shadows of a fabled legacy. A devotion to make her own way in Florence, she finds refuge under the Florentine Bank’s umbrella. In the too-tight cubicles, emerges a mind for investments and strategy. A woman who can turn straw into gold, her returns are that of myth and legend. Despite her calculated sense of probability and chance, she could never see it coming. A hail mary coup, for control of the Grand Hotel Cavour, with Noelle as the pawn in a board of directors game. As newly-anointed hotelier she sits on the precipice of control. Under prepared, lacking in prestige, and seemingly in over her head - Noelle is fable in the making, lest she soar to greater heights.

BIOGRAPHY.

Every sentiment in relation to her soul is often feathered with the word ‘almost.’ It’s a spineless, dissatisfying word - but it finds its way to every depiction of her wayward soul. She is “almost” her father’s true daughter, “almost” worthy of the Dubois name. She is almost enough - but never quite. Akin to a half-filled glass, or an incomplete puzzle - Noelle is born to mediocrity and halfhearted sentiment. A muddled, scandalous entryway into the world that acts as the proverbial cloud over her head (as well as her mother’s). Noelle is the product of an illicit affair that clouded the insert-pages of every glossy tabloid. Antoine Dubois was something of a social sensation in the early 80’s. The sole heir to a generations-old hotel chain - many glamorized his picturesque life. Who wouldn’t, when the image was as idyllic as the Dubois properties themselves? A handsome, business-savvy executive with his aristocratic wife on one arm, and pretty-in-pink daughter’s on the other. He appeared to have it all - but men of stature are hardly ever satisfied with ‘everything.’ There is always something more - and it comes in the form of hotel concierge, Nina Persaud.

What was the hook, line, and sinker? Did it start with heavy laden eyes across hotel lobbies? Did it grow through flirtatious anecdotes, and escapades to the Maldives? Did the love affair begin to flounder, when the pregnancy test turned positive? It’s hard to say for certain. Especially when rumor, spectacle, and scandal cloud the truth. In the midst of the Dubois’ marital strife, the public interest, and callous words like whore and adulterer are thrown into the wind - Noelle is born. And as Antoine held his daughter, only a single conclusion came to mind - she will be a Persaud.

It is the precedent that sets off a predictable chain. As his out-of-wedlock daughter, Noelle availed of the family name’s security - so long as the Persaud girls kept their heads low and eyes looking forward. There is a rift since infancy, that turns into a chasm into childhood. Even as a young girl, it wasn’t her half-sibling’s sprawling estate or fancy toys that she coveted. But the love of her father, and the warm glow of the larger family’s acceptance. Yet every time she deigned to push the unspoken boundaries, she’s reminded through his wife’s cold veneer - Noelle is a Persaud, not a Dubois.

It’s only in her teenage years, that Noelle can hear the palpable condescension. Her step-mother’s velveteen words that ring more as a warning; know your place. By then, she’s adopted her own defense mechanism. One that meets the Dubois’ callous fire, with a refined chill. She is not uncaring, her attentive nature to her mother and bonded soul mate prove that to be true. But she’s learned that, to make one’s way in the world, it requires a cool touch and an impenetrable disposition.

At the very least - her place in the world is earned, not given. Neither her father, nor her familiar connections buy her leverage into academia. It is through her own excellence with checks and balances, that she earns a scholarship to Wharton Business School (a refusal to take anymore money from a family that gives her so little) . Half a world away from her Florentine roots, she finds herself in lecture halls and economic debate. A business acumen and work ethic that shapes her from a shadow, and into her own light. She could make her way again, to grander metropolitan areas; the New York Stock Exchange, the Bay Area’s rising internet boom, or even Singapore’s financially thriving markets. But there is something poetic, even validating, about returning to Florence. A way of proving those who denied her, of her own worth.

The days under the fluorescent light of the Florentine Bank are long and arduous. The first in, the last out - she runs herself to the ground to prop up her career. No security nets, after all. No matter what her self-serving father claims. It is in the trenches of her career that Mercury extends its convenient hand. It is widely known that the network of commercial giants and journalistic mavens control the deep pockets of Florence. And Noelle, who knows only of ambition and growth, soars in their ranks. Her way with numbers and investments, propelling her as a Fighter among their ranks. That is - until the twist, in this archaic fairytale.

Hostile takeovers happen every day. And while the Dubois’ extensive portfolio could make any hotel chain weep with envy, its leadership delivers nothing but red on their balance sheets. The family business teeters on the edge, when members of the Board decide to take action. It may be a family business, but it is a business first and foremost. Neither her father, or his executives (composed of Noelle’s siblings) expect it to happen. But a vote of no confidence is held, and Noelle’s trust fund (a condition of her mother’s NDA) highlights a minority share. One that, coupled with their votes, puts her as the chairwoman of the board. A coup that supersedes every rightfully named Dubois, and puts her in command. In the midst of confusion and shock, Ayesha Sharma’s appointment comes swiftly after - Enterpriser. What once was a wishful dream, turned into a grounded reality.

But no one tells you about the dark side of wish fulfillment. The sticks and stones thrown, by those who regard her as an unconventional and mediocre choice. The cruel words, uttered by her vengeful father and envious children. The heavy pressure that comes, as the spreadsheets of the Grand Hotel Cavour presents a floundering tale. Heavy is the head that wears the crown, but as she stares off into the penthouse’s abyss - she wonders if it will crush her in the process.

PROFESSION

Enterpriser for the House of Mercury - Hotelier for The Grand Cavour Hotel

SOUL CONNECTIONS

Ayesha Sharma - Soul Connection - Medium. The penultimate success story - Noelle hangs onto each word like it is wisdom from Mercury themselves. She props the Elder up on a pedestal, thinking nothing but the best of her former boss turned Elder. An ever loyal Enterpriser, Noelle defends Ayesha’s reign with the skin of her teeth. 

Valentine Garcia - Soul Connection - Bonded. They are the loves of each other’s lives. The very embodiment of a soul mate. A friendship forged in childhood and solidified in young adulthood - they are sisters in every way but blood. Though their loyalties remain on opposing sides. Their ultimate duty is to each other, above all else. 

THE SOUL OF ZAHRA

Character Name — Zahra Njoki

Age — 35 - 40

Role — Enterpriser

House — Janus

FCs — Anna Diop

STATUS — Played by Ash

BEHIND THE SOUL.

“Respect Lorenzo, but fear Zahra.” It’s a common sentiment muttered in The Underground. A resounding piece of advice that reaches every ear, and pours out of every mouth. It only makes sense, when one meets Zahra Njoki (Rossi) herself. A presence that can silence any room, it’s as if she’s made to be the Don of the organization herself. In some ways, it’s true. Her youth is forged in the absence of loved ones and the prevalence of snakes. The only way to survive is to thrive - so, she did. She earns her place to the top of the heap, grinding for seventy-two hours at a time through the streets of Rome. Pick-pocketing, minor heists, and theft; she masters it all without a quiver of a lip or a break in her demeanor. Easily running circles around her competitors, she is the youngest Capo to date. But in her rise, she discovers her true talent - an eye for profit and losses, that makes for a refined mind. Anyone could throw a punch, but only the remarkable could hide a fortune as large as theirs. Quickly, Zahra becomes the wizard of strategy and finance. The secret weapon that keeps both the Rossi’s and their interests away from Minerva’s constant investigation. She holds her head high and her interests close to her chest - making use of any opportunity that comes her way. Including Lorenzo’s recent proposal, and his ascension to the rank of Elder. A steel tongue and an air of mystery - she is nearly unflappable.

BIOGRAPHY

TW: death, drugs, murder

Zahra didn’t grow up with tiaras and dolls, dresses and makeup, nor the white picket fence family that she sought out in everyone around her. This was all thanks to the woman who birthed her. Instead, she grew up with a devout father, who showed her how to appreciate the littlest things, to be grateful for the ground they walk upon, for the beauty of the earth that surrounds them. Home was where the heart is and Zahra’s father was her heart. Not once did he express any resentment or regrets, nor did he ever put the blame on her as to why her mother left. In the end, it was them against the world and Zahra wouldn’t want to have it any other way.

Born and raised in France, Zahra’s father was working double jobs to keep themselves a float. A caretaker in an elementary school by day and a bouncer at a club by night, it taught her the importance of independence and sacrifice. Her father told her it would pay off in the long run, all she had to do was focus on school and dream big because anything was possible. The laughter and simplicity of it all—these were a few senseful memories that made up the many adventures she and her father had in the past. Little wide-eyed girl, blinded by the reality around her, Zahra did not realize her father’s struggles as he kept a brave face trying to raise her and support the both of them at the same time.

Naivety bested her as she was faced with the consequences of her father’s actions and decisions. The club he worked at was run by a notorious syndicate known for their own violence and heavy crime. Her father was not only the bodyguard, but a drug runner as it paid extra cash. Every risk came with a price and the Njoki patriarch took the fall of a drug trade gone wrong and was executed on site. It was a set up, wrong place, wrong time and while Zahra refused to believe that her father held wrong morals, it wasn’t going to change the fact that he was not coming back. Thrown into the foster system, she was faced with neglect and abandonment. What did she do to deserve this fate? The light that once shined bright despite her struggles became dim and Zahra realized that life wasn’t about living, it was about surviving.

Her aspirations shifted as soon as she became an adult. Free to do as she pleased, she lived a double life as she became a spitting image of her father. Money was the root of all evil, but it was also what kept the world going round. Therefore her goal in life was to rise to the top and be at the helm of where she can gain more and not have to live less. Sure, Zahra went to school to be educated, but it was her street smarts that shaped her to the woman she is today. She associated herself with what society deem as ‘bad people’, but ultimately they taught her the hustle and grind. With Paris being a tourist trap, it was easy to pickpocket and charm the newcomers around her. They were all from different walks of life, which meant all sorts of income to accumulate. At first this was a venture she could get comfortable with, but that was the problem, she was too comfortable which led to complete boredom and a stagnant lifestyle…

Zahra wanted a challenge.

Moving to Rome was a strategic move, especially with the underground opportunities that were presented before her. However, she was the type who didn’t take things at face value. She looked at the bigger picture and worked her ass off to make a name for herself on the streets. With no important bonds to break her, she had no weakness. Truthfully, she accepted death with open arms as each day passed by. Ruthless, cunning and unapologetic, Zahra was a risk taker and soon everyone knew her name. Allies wanted to team up with her, enemies wanted her dead, deceptive in her own right, she played everyone out to her own advantage…

—That was until she became associated with the Rossi family.

In the beginning she thought it was simply a business transaction, nothing more, nothing less. She had a rule after all, to cut off ties once she received her end of the deal. However, she was met with the opportunity to join them. Reluctant at first due to her past, Zahra eventually gave in as they valued her worth and further, the loyalty that ran in the House of Janus was not only appealing, but it gave her a whole new perspective on life. She no longer had to survive alone, not when she had everything at her fingertips. She was more than an asset, the Rossi family needed her and more importantly, she bonded with the one and only Lorenzo Rossi. Thick as thieves, these two had been through it all, but with the death of Ervig Rossi, all hell broke loose that things shifted in the house of Janus. A marriage, a promotion in status, it was all coming down fast on Zahra, but not once did she bat a lash. In fact, she accepted it without question and as usual, she meant business both literally and figuratively. Her goal? To remain at the top and further, to kill two birds with one stone by beating the house of Minerva at their own game and getting to the bottom of who murdered Ervig. Her story isn’t finished yet, in fact it was just getting started…

PROFESSION

Enterpriser for the House of Janus - Consigliere for the Rossi Crime Family

SOUL CONNECTIONS

Lorenzo Rossi - Soul Connection - High. Where you go, Lorenzo follows - it’s how it's always been. A friendship made in the trenches of the Rossi family, it flourishes into a wonderful partnership. And what is marriage, but a partnership with rings? The wedding follows quickly after, and so too does the changes in Janus’ ranks. In the aftermath, Zahra is determined to ensure Lorenzo’s success. Whether it’s love or self-servitude that compels her, is an entirely different story. 

Santiago Herrera - Soul Connection - Low. Zahra is a woman that commits; to her work, to her people, and to herself. A singular, sharp focus that keeps her eye on the prize. But she is still human, and Santiago was once her Achilles Heel. A flirtation from two years ago, that hinged on the edge of becoming something true. But when Lorenzo’s interests become known, Zahra pulls away. Every now and again, she looks back. Always wondering - what if? 

THE SOUL OF WILHELMINA

Character Name — Wilhelmina “Mina” D’Angelo

Age — 35 - 40

Role — Enterpriser

House — Jupiter

FCs — Janet Montgomery, Meghan Ory

STATUS — open

BEHIND THE SOUL.

“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet… Unless you’re a D’Angelo.” It’s meant to be a compliment, is it not? To be both wonderful, and carry a name with its weight in history and gold? But for the likes of Wilhelmina, it is an insult lined through pretty smiles. A name that feels larger than the woman itself, Wilhelmina always felt second to the importance of her name. Especially when her culinary expertise is sub-par at best, and downright pitiful at worst. She is not a D’Angelo make - with words too crass, and an impatience that could shake the ground beneath her. The black sheep of a proper, well-to-do, Florentine family - Wilhelmina finds her own prowess in University. Lost in the tactile nature of the real world, she forgoes the beaten path of marriage and children to a growing enterprise. A failing restaurant at the heart of Florence. It shrinks in diners and reputation by each passing day. And although she lacks prowess with a skillet, she can work wonders in influence and unspoken trades.  Mina purchases the ground beneath the restaurant, and renames it Trattoria D’Angelo. A shift from a D’Angelo trophy wife, to a D’Angelo powerhouse. She makes her family proud, and lives to tell the tale. But she is not without weakness, and it comes in an on-again/off-again affair with Ervig Rossi. A cataclysmic love that promises a Bonnie and Clyde-like romance. Only to be recast, with Edgar Ra’s now-deceased wife. With her lover gone and the scandal ringing through the streets of Florence, Mina hides her broken heart through cruel words and Michelin stars. 

PROFESSION

Enterpriser for the House of Jupiter - Owner of Trattoria D’Angelo

SOUL CONNECTIONS

Valeria Luisa Greco - Soul Connection - Bonded. Ervig Rossi may have been the love of Mina’s life. But he was never her soulmate. No, that was Valeria herself. A childhood rivalry that blossomed, as they did. The chasm between them closed, and from it, a friendship took shape. It is more than romance, friendship, and family - it is a deep-seeded understanding. And when Valeria reveals Ervig’s affair, and his death? She picks up Mina’s pieces, and works to put her back together again. 

Hayle Oliveira - Soul Connection - Low. If opposites attract, then like-minded people collide. The proof is in Mina and Hayle; self-made, enterprising, and determined people of stubborn nature. Sure, the pair of them are cordial - careers in entertainment and hospitality have that effect. But competition is fierce, and Hayle’s growing success in her tourism endeavors leave a sour taste in Mina’s lips. 

THE SOUL OF JI HOON

Character Name — Lee Ji Hoon

Age — 40 - 42

Role — Enterpriser

House — Minerva

FCs — John Cho, Gong Yu

STATUS — open

BEHIND THE SOUL.

“Nothing impresses him. You best get used to it.” It’s a not-so-friendly piece of advice that inevitably comes, where Ji Hoon’s professional standards are concerned. Does he apologize? Certainly not. A lion doesn’t concern itself with the opinions of sheep, and what is Ji Hoon, but a lion among Florence’s residents? It would almost be egoistic and intolerable, if Ji Hoon was not an exceptional attorney. But it was not always glory and accolades. A childhood spent shuttled from one adoptive family to another, lost in a sea of bureaucracy and false promises. It’s a wonder Ji Hoon survived, let alone thrived. But he pulled himself from his bootstraps, working three different jobs while completing his law degree in Cambridge. When graduation comes, so too do multitudes of offers from top firms. London. New York. Singapore. Yet the promised prestige does not call to him. Why lose himself in someone else’s empire, when he can create his own? In between perspective cities, he learns of Florence - and sets his ambitions to the thriving city. In twenty years, Lee Abara LLP evolved from a small practice to the foremost legal firm in Florence, and its surrounding cities. It’s no wonder, then, that Ji Hoon fits seamlessly into the role of Enterpriser. The very same ingenuity extended to Minerva’s ranks. Yet his veneer of professionalism and decorum teeters, as his faith in his Elder begins to shake. Will he be the one to pick up the pieces? 

PROFESSION

Enterpriser for the House of Minerva - Managing Partner of Lee Abara LLP

SOUL CONNECTIONS

Ayesha Sharma - Soul Connection - Medium. Ji Hoon isn’t a man of impulsivity or recklessness. A string of almost-but-not-quite relationships litter his past, second always to his dedication to Minerva’s plight. But she catches his eye, at Edgar and Lorelai’s fifteen year anniversary parts, and she has not let go since. A rather inconvenient thing, when the lines between houses have never been more pronounced. 

Andy Alvarez Abara - Soul Connection - Low. The adoptive son of Ji Hoon’s recently retired partner, Andy is the antithesis of Ji Hoon himself. A silver spoon, raised in the lap of luxury. The young lawyer knows nothing of hardship, or even the law itself. Or so Ji Hoon claims, as an excuse to overlook the obvious. With Andy’s growing repute as a “lawyer for the people,” he is set to eclipse his own father’s legacy. Ji Hoon has yet to determine if he applauds it, or wishes to remove him from employment altogether.