Ishtar nodded slowly.
There it is.
The root of Parsley's xenophobic tendencies was not that they were stronger, or that the idea of engaging in carnal acts with them upset her delicate sensibilities, no ... it was that they were stronger, and content in not actively seeking to prove it. Choosing instead to pursue other endeavors, like this .... 'superhero' thing Totoma was so fond of. And beneath that still, was jealousy. Perhaps even a fear of inadequacy and irrelevance.
I assure you that the reason Totoma is looked to favorably, by Rutaba, and Pinach, is that he uses his strength for something more than shortsighted posturing. Though I suppose you know little beyond what was trained into you ... that you cling to it above all espe despite knowing deep down you are wrong however, concerns me." Pausing a moment, Ishtar then sighed as she appraised Parsley's power level.
"And while it is true you are stronger in the moment ... your power level is not currently suppressed. Mine, for lack of a better term ... is."
The matter of Parsley's parents however also seemed to prove a sticking point. To which Ishtar could only sayb: "Lettise and I are on speaking terms, yes. She even approves- in her own way- and has expressed as much."
True, the woman was still somewhat distant, yet they could actually hold a full conversation now, and one that was not simply Ishtar speaking while Lettise responded with grunts.
"Now, the only one left Parsley ... is you."