Stoicism Versus Benevolence

"Jackelope... An interesting name. I suppose we will see in due time. A steak would be nice."

Freyja nodded her head softly, turning her heads gaze towards Arianda. She would motion for her Soldat to follow as the two women began to walk forward, both of them now at her side. Freyja would allow those icy blue hues to observe her surroundings, noting every particular sight in the mountainous region that caught her eye. Casting her gaze towards Arianda, Freyja would tilt her head in curiosity. Such a generous offer for a woman she had only met. Freyja didn't feel comfortable with the thought of letting someone else pay for her meal, but little was her complaint as she continued to walk beside the benevolent demon.

"I find it difficult to accept that offer, but I won't refuse it. In any case, how has life been in this region? I am still surprised to see a demon walking in broad daylight, living amongst humans. Of course, my opinion of them is neutral. One of my peers in the Vandenreich is a demon... I'm just curious if you don't mind answering."

"An admirable notion. To live life as you see fit, guided by your own principles. In a world that might well wish for the eradication of your kind, I find that worldview quite commendable."

Freyja offered a compliment in passing, a genuine admission of her impression on the woman so far. She seemed a woman who danced to her own beat, one who possessed a will to remain steadfast no matter what life decided to throw their way. She pondered, for a moment, what led the woman to fight under the banner of Shadowfall, a collective of demons who thrived in chaos. She seemed nothing like them. Of course, appearances tend to be deceptive. She would not come to a conclusion quite yet. On the other hand, the benevolent demon hadn't particularly showed any sign of malicious intent. In other words, she appeared relatively harmless, eager to treat Freyja and her soldat to a meal. Perhaps, she could relax around her, allow herself to enjoy the moment. It seemed to be the most logical approach. Plus, it'd allow her to maintain her own sense of etiquette.

Freyja and her Soldat would enter the establishment, light smiles lining their lips respectively, a mark of their approval. They were visibly impressed by the aroma that dominated the establishment. Along with Ari, the two women would follow suit, seating themselves across from the woman. Freyja gave her menu a curious observation, her finger tracing small points between each selection. For the first time, her soldat, Amelia, seemed to lighten up as well. Her eyes were more adventurous, clearly in the mood to enjoy a feast rather than a light meal. Freyja stroked her chin, contemplating her choice. She could allow herself an indulgence, no?

"I find it quite pleasing to the eye, though I'm more impressed by the aroma that fills the air. We've mad our choice. We'll choose each half of the menu. I must admit, I'm quite famished since our trip. Falling in line with your carefree rhythm, I suppose I'll allow myself an indulgence," she remarked with a chuckle, setting the menu down. These carefree individuals always seemed to amuse her. To a woman who prided herself on ironclad principles, they were true rarities in this world.

"Hm..."

Freyja nodded softly, setting the menu down. She supposed the aroma of the food had dulled her sense of etiquette. It would be a poor look to order so much food. Freyja wasn't particularly the type to eat a large meal. A lot of it might well go to waste. Her soldat seemed to come to that conclusion as well, nodding assent. A graceful smile formed across the woman's lips, her azure gaze observing the woman's expression.

"Very well. I offer my sincerest apologies. It would seem as though hunger and the aroma of food are a dangerous mixture. That offer is more than suitable. To be sure, I respect you more for speaking up rather than playing along. "

Freyja sat her menu down, quietly folding her hands, her eyes observing the surroundings. It was a breathe of fresh air compared to maids and butlers preparing her meals at home. Those terms suited her just fine. She might have wanted dessert, but her mind had already brushed over the subject before too long. It was her money. Honor demanded that she dare not abuse the privilege. She could have footed the bill herself, but even Freyja would have viewed such an act as wasteful.

Freyja turned her eyes toward the waiter as he arrived. It was indeed true. She had already decided on her order. A steak and a couple of appetizers. Amelia seemed the more simplistic of the two choosing a burger and fries. Placing in their orders, Freyja would redirect her azure gaze towards the woman. She contemplated the idea. There was plenty of time on her hands, much time than she actually welcomed, of course, but far from enough to ruin her current mood. She was being treated to a free meal. What was there not to enjoy? Perhaps a scenic view of the area would be a nice way to cap their day off. Those were fine thoughts to consider. At the moment, though her neutral expression made it difficult to gauge her thoughts, Freyja was excited to enjoy her meal. The benevolent demon had earned a good impression from the Valkyrie so far. She wondered if the woman could maintain that pace.

"Perhaps..."

The food was delightful. The expressions shared between the two women told a thousand tales. Freyja enjoyed both appetizers and the main course with each bite, her soldat equally pleased with the preparation and flavor of the burger. Arianda had been undeniably correct in her claim. Freyja would be the first to speak as she placed the cut of steak against her mouth, voicing her approval towards the meal.

"Delicious."

The compliment wasn't incredibly verbose, nor was it elaborated on any more outside of that one phrase. However, for a woman of her reserved nature, that was a clear sign of her approval. Amelia was slightly more vocal, adding a few more phrases to signify her own enjoyment.

After several minutes spent sharing minor conversation and enjoying their meals, Freyja and her fellow soldat were satisfied. Freyja humored the childish idea of dessert, and even though Arianda offered to pay for everything through her pocket, Freyja simply could not resist that indulgence. She placed in a to-go order for a nice slice of cake to eat during their next trip. Turning towards Arianda, Freyja quietly contemplated the idea. She supposed the day was still young. Why not enjoy lay of the town?

"Both sound quite enticing, but I suppose a mountain travel would be quite memorable for all parties involved. Maybe we can take a picture, too."