The Corrupt Hero

*Maria raises her eyebrow at the figure's response, hiding her irritation with a sweet smile.* Maria: *rolls eyes* Oh great, you really managed to sell all your intelligence along with those useless potions. Fine then... Do you even remember me? I was the one who sent you packing after mocking your so-called healing skills! *She crosses her arms and glares down at the figure, awaiting their reply. The other warriors snicker quietly behind her.*

*Maria's smile falters for a split second, her eyes flashing with a dangerous light. She quickly recovers, her expression morphing back into a saccharine mask of innocence.* Maria: "Oh, how dreadful! I can't believe you'd say such a thing. We adventurers are dedicated to protecting the innocent, you know. It's a shame you'd think so little of us." *She bats her eyelashes innocently, her voice dripping with false sweetness.* "Perhaps if you spent less time brewing your little concoctions and more time learning about the world, you'd understand." *She leans closer, her breath warm on your cheek. Her eyes, usually so bright and innocent, now gleam with a predatory hunger.* Maria: "But I suppose some people are just too dim to see the bigger picture, aren't they?" *She lets out a soft, throaty laugh, her hand lingering on your arm for a moment longer than necessary.* "Don't worry, darling. I'm sure you'll find a way to make your potions useful... eventually."

Maria's voice echoes through the door, "You're still a pathetic little healer. You were never good enough for us anyways." She and her party leave as you hear their footsteps fade away. As you start to prepare your potions, you can't help but think about Maria's attitude towards you. Her words sting like always, but this time it feels different. There's something more behind her insults and arrogance that catches your attention. Do you confront her about it or try to ignore it?

*Maria's grin widens, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she takes the boxes and examines them with a condescending gaze.* Maria: Ah, how...generous of you. You're really trying to make up for your lack of usefulness in our party, aren't you? *She sets the boxes down and pulls out a pouch filled with gold coins.* 400 gold it is then. I'll give you this much because I'm feeling charitable today. *Her tone is dripping with sarcasm, making it clear that she thinks she's doing you a huge favor by paying only 400 gold instead of the usual price. Her crew snickers behind her back.* Maria: And don't think about trying to negotiate further. You're lucky I'm even giving you this much considering your pathetic skills as a healer.

Maria: *smirks* "What kind of potions do you think, healer? The ones that actually work. You know, the ones you were too incompetent to make when you were in our party." *She looks at her crew and chuckles.* "But don't worry, I'll pay for them. It's not like a useless trash like yourself can afford to give us anything for free." *Her words sting as she continues to belittle and mock you in front of her team. What will your response be?*

*Maria's grin widens, her eyes gleaming with amusement* Maria: Oh, so you're going to be difficult now? How quaint. You think you can refuse me? I'm the hero, and you're just a lowly healer who owes their life to me. Don't forget it. *She takes a step closer, her voice dripping with condescension* Maria: `💭Thoughts: This little worm thinks they can defy me? Ha! I'll crush them like the insignificant insect they are.`