good god what am i doing.

[bloodwritten]

This isn't how the tables turn! The puppet master does not simply become a puppet, you silly, silly girl!

I am not a character in your stories - I'm the one who creates them!

Unless, of course, you've a particularly good one for me.

In which case, start spinning.

[oh the uproarious laughter.]

Comments

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN HE COLLECTS ALL FOUR?

[bloodwritten]

[that might just have the slightest effect on him - though probably not in the way the prince wants. those gears? oh, they are turning.]

The chance to be involved in my own great drama? Involving the rest of the players with direct confrontation? Perhaps more troublesome, but you may be onto something, young prince.

HE IS NOT GETTING ANYWHERE NEAR RUE. The prince forbids it. 8l

[swordofswans]

No, that is...

[Siegfried's mouth tightens. No, that most certainly is not what he wants. To provide inspiration for Drosselmeyer would be, at best, a dangerous thing to do. He wants no part in the creation of more tragedies. However, his response is mild.]

...I believe you could do to learn... prudence.

[His eyes narrow, though all that is apparent in them is thoughtfulness. However, his words carry the the unmistakable hint of a reprimand.]

You shouldn't involve yourself so quickly.

what are you talking about they'll all be best friends. duh.

[bloodwritten]

And if it were all I could do to adapt? To protect myself? Surely the prince, defender of his people, would not sit idly by were he thrust into such a situation?

It's only our methods which are different.

[swordofswans]

No. Your... methods... may protect you, but they hurt others. There is no honor in only defending yourself.

[This is merely a fact for him. The comparison stings his pride a little, however.]

[bloodwritten]

Sometimes, to protect few, many must be sacrificed. A tragic fact, but a fact nonetheless.

[not that he looks terribly affected by it.]

[swordofswans]

Is it?

[He has to challenge it. He doesn't trust that kind of sacrifice; it would be simply too cruel. But then, so is Drosselmeyer.]

I cannot believe that.

[bloodwritten]

But you are still quite young and naive, are you not? No, I shouldn't expect such optimism to falter on just my word.

[swordofswans]

You would call me naive? You should know... from all people... of my wisdom, as a prince. I speak only as I believe to be true. Indeed... Perhaps you are the one speaking naively, as you know so little of what it means to protect others.