crystal; closed to diplomacy

[altusimperius]

FORM: crystal
SENDER: Benedict
RECIPIENT: members of Diplomacy
NOTES:

[posh and softspoken, guess who it is:]

In light of our most recent Rifter's arrival, maybe we ought to, um. Encourage a certain degree of etiquette, both for those receiving sending crystals for the first time, and for those greeting a new member.

It can be very confusing and isolating, coming here. When one didn't intend to, presumably when one doesn't even know what our world is or what they're doing here. People say stupid things on both sides of the crystal, and they get heated.

I don't have a solution, but it's something I've been thinking about. And would like to talk through, if you'll humor me.

Comments

[altusimperius]

Should we not expect a certain level of decorum within our own ranks? It worked out this time, partially, because the Rifter conceded.

[dissolving]

Sure. If we could afford that. 'S not an army, we got who we've got.

[ not that he hasn't been shoved in a trunk or two in his day ]

Y'ever see dogs wrestle?

[altusimperius]

If only we had a Diplomacy division.

[he has never been bullied in his life]

Not, uh... willingly. [re: dogs]

sorry im the fastest comment editor in the west

[dissolving]

'S how they figure out what dog's in charge, but as a game. Some dogs'll trade off the winner. Others don't. They're always the first t'fold, or they just won't ever. Flexible, stubborn. Teaches 'em about each other. People do it too, we just use words.

[ a pause, ]

Usually. Look, no one's thrown hands. It'll be alright.

buzz, ooh a tag! second buzz, and it's from k2!!

[altusimperius]

I like to think we're capable of better communication than dogs.

[one can dream at least]

I find it can be a bit of a hit to the morale, listening to people bickering over their crystals. If every disagreement were immediately ushered to a sparring ground and not made absolutely everyone's business, I might agree with your analogy.

[dissolving]

Then don't listen to it,

[ isn't ungentle. ]

Know you're worried for her, and the other newcomers. 'S a good instinct. But have you talked t'her yourself?

[ knows benedict hasn't. ]

[altusimperius]

Not yet, but I intend to catch up with her soon, when I can find her in person.

[dissolving]

Good. Look, I been called plenty in my day. Coming down hard would've only made it worse. Best anyone did for me was be a friend. Talk t'her, show her you're on her side. You got a hand for that.

And — try t'make it into a job between you, sounds she'll take it better.

[altusimperius]

Well, [don't simper don't grovel don't equivocate]

thank you. I will.