The Evil Faerie and the Mercenary

Mulan is in Maleficent's domain. She's kneeling in front of her, keeping her eyes averted.

>>Maleficent: I don't usually associate myself with your kind, mercenary. In fact I've wiped most of your ilk from my lands. They were a bothersome thorn in my side even before my ascension. But I admit you are not what I imagined.

>>Mulan: A Square-jawed, bravado spewing meathead?

>>Maleficent: The image did occur...

>>Mulan: They exist, milady. But they never live long enough to prosper in this line of work.

>>Maleficent: And you do?

>>Mulan: I've seen empires born. I've seen them grumble. I've met imposing men. And I watched them die, by my hand or by others. I survive. And I get the job done. No more, no less.

>>Maleficent: Yes, you are a fascinating one. I was tempted to maw you when you came to me. Now I would like to have seen you in your youth.

>>Mulan: I'd rather spare you the image, your worship. You would have seen a foolish girl with her head in the clouds, an ignorant child playing at being a soldier.

>>Maleficent: Ah, but a fetching girl, I imagine. Most likely the type I'm sending you to find. But do not be fooled: This one's a far cry from innocent. And that is my doing, I am not afraid to admit. You'll bring me her head and her heart, warrior. You shan't return without these items.

>>Mulan: Understood, there remains the mater of my pay...

>Maleficent: Being unschooled in these affairs, what is your usual boon?

>Mulan: Mostly, I work for coin. But I've worked for food, for shelter and to pay off debts. I'm not picky.

>Maleficent: Perhaps...

*she cups Mulan's chin, turns her head from side to side and inspects it closely*

>Maleficent: I shall give you back your youth and your former beauty, Fa Mulan.

*she finds a grey hair and plucks it from her head*

>Maleficent: What do you think of that?

>Mulan: I-You can... you can do that?!

*Maleficent chuckles and lets her face go. She directs Mulan's gaze to a close fountain and does an offhanded gesture. Before Mulan's very eyes her reflection transforms to show her former, youthful self.*

>Maleficent: I look after my subjects. Especially those that please me. Do this deed and you shall forever have a place in my fold. As the captain of my guard, no less.

*the reflection changes back to the way it was, then grows even older, withering and cackling madly. Mulan turns her head away, shaken.*

>Maleficent: But fail me and you will know suffering above and beyond anything even an experienced warrior,such as yourself, can imagine.

>Mulan: I understand.