tentatively approaching paradisa, but not before a voice test and some research

[bearish]

All things considered, a lady must commend herself for waiting until she has all the necessary information in order before proceeding with something so ambitious. One cannot simply charge in head first without having a bit of tact-- which, admittedly, is something I have not had the pleasure of experiencing in quite some time.

As it is not an immediate concern, by all means, take your time and think this through. If I am to allow you to share my voice, I'd rather have an educated lady with a strengthened sense of management, be it concerning her time or her leadership.

You must think ahead and do what is best. I admit, I've hardly the knowledge of your more... modern affairs, but I doubt that much has changed over the centuries. After all, you took quite a lot to heart with my story, didn't you?

Comments

[heirish]

What exactly is there to wait for, anyway? If we're going to go, we might as well go now and get it over with.

[bearish]

Merida, I-- [Sigh.] Did you hear nothing I said?

[heirish]

Yeah, but what's there to research? You've got a castle that's magic, and you've got two strong, brave women who can face it like they've faced everything else. C'mon, mom. We've been through worse.

[bearish]

This is correct, but there is much more to it than that. For one, I cannot bear the thought of-- [Oh god, what did she just say? Augh.]

Of visiting another castle without the proper knowledge of my own! And our lands, what if the people of this new world inquire about where we're from? I do not wish to look like a fool in front of an audience!

[heirish]

[grooooaaaaan]

Have you heard about what goes on in that castle? There's all sorts of mischief and magic and mystery to be had! Who really has time to ask a few silly history questions when all of that is going on!

[bearish]

I've heard quite a bit about it, yes. And I'll have you know that there is a lot of communication with the others on a daily basis, so guess whose lessons in addressing a crowd will finally be put to use once again? [She's smiling so hard in her voice, can you hear it? She is so proud!]

[heirish]

But I'm not the princess of this castle, soooo I probably won't need to address any crowds after all! Even if I was pretty good at it, wasn't I?

[bearish]

You were, yes. But if we are to be recognized as royalty, I must insist that you represent DunBroch with the respect it so rightly deserves.

[heirish]

[What]

What difference does it make if we're royalty or commoners? It's not like it'll mean much once we're there.

[bearish]

That is not how you should be thinking, Merida. We are not uneducated nor are we boorish monsters without a purpose! We've our titles and dignity for a reason.

[heirish]

And everyone that isn't royalty in that castle is uneducated, boorish monsters?

[bearish]

That-- that's not what I meant!

[heirish]

[Chortle!]

The way I see it, this is a chance for us to just be... us! Without all the titles and having to act all proper all the time.

[bearish]

That's exactly what I am, though. A queen. In spite of all the changes, the spells, everything-- I am a leader, above all else. I fully intend to retain my respect for not only myself, my clan, and my kingdom-- but also to all those who are in my presence.

[heirish]

Ugh, mom. It's not like I don't respect my heritage. I just think it might be nice not to have to worry about it for a while! A little break? You know, enjoy a bit of freedom from the corsets and lessons?

[bearish]

I think that respecting one's heritage is wearing it proudly! [She says it in an slnost sibv song voice, as if emphasizing how many times she's said something like this.

Though, there is something that nags at her. What if they weren't considered royalty? What then? What if all titles are truly considered meaningless? True, she'd never lose right of the way she's supposed to carry herself, nor would she stop projecting respect for others, but... just how far would that all get her here?]

We shall just have to see where this journey of ours takes us. If this castle cares not of the old ways, I may be convinced to give you some leniency. If not, then you must promise me that you'll listen to what I have to remind you of, yes?

[optimystic]

But sometimes you have to change in a little! There's only so much preparing you can do.

[bearish]

Yes, but I would like as much preparation as possible. That is the only way to progress, if one can help it.

[optimystic]

Haven't you ever heard the phrase, sometimes you've gotta run before you crawl?

Just have a little faith, I bet it'll be fine!

[bearish]

If you are referring to the fact that many are put through a trial by fire instead of taking the time to prepare, I must remind you that I am without such brashness behind my steps. I've faith in the person who is to share my voice-- she will not allow me to make a fool of myself.

[optimystic]

Okay.

So... see! You know your mun is going to take care of you! Problem solved. [no Maya, are you even listening?]

[bearish]

I can honestly only hope.

[just_a_mask_now]

Sound strategy.

[bearish]

As I shall continue to uphold, of course.

[just_a_mask_now]

Best to stick with a decision once you've made it.

My apologies, I have not introduced myself yet. I am Amon. What shall I call you, Miss?

[bearish]

Determination is very much a virtue, yes. Though one can argue that there is a certain art to it.

You may my address me as Queen Elinor of DunBroch. A pleasure-- [I-is he without house? Hmm.] Amon.

[just_a_mask_now]

Takes practice to perfect such an art, yes.

[Slightly inclines his head.] Your majesty. [Tilts his head, curious.] I'm afraid I'm not familiar with DunBroch.

[wintercat]

It is a shame more do not listen to such sound advice. [Or maybe it's just that no one listens to you, Cat. Bless.]

[bearish]

I don't understand the reasoning behind it! It's not as though I'm outright telling others to do the impossible!

[wintercat]

I certainly understand eagerness. But one would think they would know the dangers of haste without strategy.

[bearish]

I am constantly countered with the argument that haste, in and of itself, is the strategy.

[wintercat]

Not a sound one, certainly. Not many problems are solved by races.

[inthisworldnolonger]

I must say, my Lady, I am quite impressed!

To take ones time and come to learn that which is necessary before heedlessly rushing on is indeed a skill that everyone should possess and I commend you and your, ah- Master Mundane- for committing to it so. [The worst part here is that he's completely sincere too..]

[bearish]

And we both thank you for the commendation, truly. Have you much experience with those who are too brash for their own good?

[inthisworldnolonger]

Unfortunately my Master Mundane should learn to not rush into things before she can be certain that she is capable of handling them. [He seems perhaps a bit irked.]

She truly should think things through more...

[righttobeararms]

Mum, you'll scare her right off. Its not been a fortnight!

[bearish]

Don't be silly! No one who is easily daunted would bother taking up the duties of a queen-- even if it is all an act.

[righttobeararms]

How do you know that?

[bearish]

If we are looking for examples here, I doubt that anyone can say that you are easily daunted.

[righttobeararms]

Well--no, but this isn't me we're talking about.

[bearish]

But you do know all the hard work behind it all, correct? Do you honestly think someone lazy without a sense of resolve could pull it all off?

[culling]

Haste too has its merits, fair lady.

[bearish]

A merit in getting onself so quickly in the throes of action, perhaps? [Is that a dubious challenge in her even, poised tone?] I certainly hope that sort of person can afford to test the waters, so to speak?

[culling]

[He hears the challenge and it makes him chortle.]

Indeed, on all accounts.

[bearish]

I presume you are referring to yourself.