iv. dictated

[heloise]

Many of you expressed a need to return home for the sake of some great purpose, as if the castle's choosing is not so arbitrary.

Or perhaps it is because we all believe our purpose great.

And, a man's home is his castle.

[ Lucrezia is lying on the snow by the duck pond, hiding from the festivities today. Her white and gold dress serves almost as a disguise, though her blue coat forming a puddle nearby does not. She watches the sky and haltingly hums a song. ]

Comments

[secondchances]

I don't think "cuteness" is a valid answer. [It's a compliment!] Hmm...

[heloise]

[ She laughs. ] The battle has not yet begun!

[secondchances]

Oh? Did I let one slip out? I'm sorry, it just happens sometimes and I can't do anything about it.

[heloise]

Now I fear I have made my challenge prematurely. You have hidden your talents all the while.

[secondchances]

You can always back down. I won't judge you.

[heloise]

Consider the challenge postponed then, until I have sharpened my words.

[secondchances]

I'll be looking forward to it.

[heloise]

But you should not.

[secondchances]

Oooh, really? Should I be scared?

[heloise]

Your very bones should tremble.

[secondchances]

We'll see, Lucrezia.

[heloise]

So we shall.